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Genomic and Epigenomic Landscape of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051335. [PMID: 35267643 PMCID: PMC8909150 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare pediatric myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by the constitutive activation of the RAS pathway. In spite of the recent progresses in the molecular characterization of JMML, this disease is still a clinical challenge due to its heterogeneity, difficult diagnosis, poor prognosis, and the lack of curative treatment options other than hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In this review, we will provide a detailed overview of the genetic and epigenetic alterations occurring in JMML, and discuss their clinical relevance in terms of disease prognosis and risk of relapse after HSCT. We will also present the most recent advances on novel preclinical and clinical therapeutic approaches directed against JMML molecular targets. Finally, we will outline future research perspectives to further explore the oncogenic mechanism driving JMML leukemogenesis and progression, with special attention to the application of single-cell next-generation sequencing technologies. Abstract Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm of early childhood. Most of JMML patients experience an aggressive clinical course of the disease and require hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which is currently the only curative treatment. JMML is characterized by RAS signaling hyperactivation, which is mainly driven by mutations in one of five genes of the RAS pathway, including PTPN11, KRAS, NRAS, NF1, and CBL. These driving mutations define different disease subtypes with specific clinico-biological features. Secondary mutations affecting other genes inside and outside the RAS pathway contribute to JMML pathogenesis and are associated with a poorer prognosis. In addition to these genetic alterations, JMML commonly presents aberrant epigenetic profiles that strongly correlate with the clinical outcome of the patients. This observation led to the recent publication of an international JMML stratification consensus, which defines three JMML clinical groups based on DNA methylation status. Although the characterization of the genomic and epigenomic landscapes in JMML has significantly contributed to better understand the molecular mechanisms driving the disease, our knowledge on JMML origin, cell identity, and intratumor and interpatient heterogeneity is still scarce. The application of new single-cell sequencing technologies will be critical to address these questions in the future.
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Mayerhofer C, Niemeyer CM, Flotho C. Current Treatment of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3084. [PMID: 34300250 PMCID: PMC8305558 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10143084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare pediatric leukemia characterized by mutations in five canonical RAS pathway genes. The diagnosis is made by typical clinical and hematological findings associated with a compatible mutation. Although this is sufficient for clinical decision-making in most JMML cases, more in-depth analysis can include DNA methylation class and panel sequencing analysis for secondary mutations. NRAS-initiated JMML is heterogeneous and adequate management ranges from watchful waiting to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Upfront azacitidine in KRAS patients can achieve long-term remissions without HSCT; if HSCT is required, a less toxic preparative regimen is recommended. Germline CBL patients often experience spontaneous resolution of the leukemia or exhibit stable mixed chimerism after HSCT. JMML driven by PTPN11 or NF1 is often rapidly progressive, requires swift HSCT and may benefit from pretransplant therapy with azacitidine. Because graft-versus-leukemia alloimmunity is central to cure high risk patients, the immunosuppressive regimen should be discontinued early after HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Mayerhofer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
| | - Charlotte M. Niemeyer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Flotho
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Wang J, Wu Y, Uddin MN, Chen R, Hao JP. Identification of Potential Key Genes and Regulatory Markers in Essential Thrombocythemia Through Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis and Clinical Validation. PHARMACOGENOMICS & PERSONALIZED MEDICINE 2021; 14:767-784. [PMID: 34267539 PMCID: PMC8275175 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s309166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Essential thrombocytosis (ET) is a group of myeloproliferative neoplasms characterized by abnormal proliferation of platelet and megakaryocytes. Research on potential key genes and novel regulatory markers in essential thrombocythemia (ET) is still limited. Methods Downloading array profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, we identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) through comprehensive bioinformatic analysis. GO, and REACTOME pathway enrichment analysis was used to predict the potential functions of DEGs. Besides, constructing a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network through the STRING database, we validated the expression level of hub genes in an independent cohort of ET, and the transcription factors (TFs) were detected in the regulatory networks of TFs and DEGs. And the candidate drugs that are targeting hub genes were identified using the DGIdb database. Results We identified 63 overlap DEGs that included 21 common up-regulated and 42 common down-regulated genes from two datasets. Functional enrichment analysis shows that the DEGs are mainly enriched in the immune system and inflammatory processes. Through PPI network analysis, ACTB, PTPRC, ACTR2, FYB, STAT1, ETS1, IL7R, IKZF1, FGL2, and CTSS were selected as hub genes. Interestingly, we found that the dysregulated hub genes are also aberrantly expressed in a bone marrow cohort of ET. Moreover, we found that the expression of CTSS, FGL2, IKZF1, STAT1, FYB, ACTR2, PTPRC, and ACTB genes were significantly under-expressed in ET (P<0.05), which is consistent with our bioinformatics analysis. The ROC curve analysis also shows that these hub genes have good diagnostic value. Besides, we identified 4 TFs (SPI1, IRF4, SRF, and AR) as master transcriptional regulators that were associated with regulating the DEGs in ET. Cyclophosphamide, prednisone, fluorouracil, ruxolitinib, and lenalidomide were predicted as potential candidate drugs for the treatment of ET. Discussion These dysregulated genes and predicted key regulators had a significant relationship with the occurrence of ET with affecting the immune system and inflammation of the processes. Some of the immunomodulatory drugs have potential value by targeting ACTB, PTPRC, IL7R, and IKZF1 genes in the treatment of ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, People's Republic of China.,School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Wu
- Department of General Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, People's Republic of China
| | - Md Nazim Uddin
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.,Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ping Hao
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, People's Republic of China
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Greenmyer JR, Kohorst M. Pediatric Neoplasms Presenting with Monocytosis. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2021; 16:235-246. [PMID: 33630234 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-021-00611-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare but severe pediatric neoplasm with hematopoietic stem cell transplant as its only established curative option. The development of targeted therapeutics for JMML is being guided by an understanding of the pathobiology of this condition. Here, we review JMML with an emphasis on genetics in order to (i) demonstrate the relationship between JMML genotype and clinical phenotype and (ii) explore potential genetic targets of novel JMML therapies. RECENT FINDINGS DNA hypermethylation studies have demonstrated consistently that methylation is related to disease severity. Increasing understanding of methylation in JMML may open the door to novel therapies, such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors. The PI3K/AKT/MTOR, JAK/STAT, and RAF/MEK/ERK pathways are being investigated as therapeutic targets for JMML. Future therapy for JMML will be driven by an increased understanding of pathobiology. Targeted therapeutic approaches hold potential for improving outcomes in patients with JMML.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mira Kohorst
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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Schönung M, Meyer J, Nöllke P, Olshen AB, Hartmann M, Murakami N, Wakamatsu M, Okuno Y, Plass C, Loh ML, Niemeyer CM, Muramatsu H, Flotho C, Stieglitz E, Lipka DB. International Consensus Definition of DNA Methylation Subgroups in Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 27:158-168. [PMID: 33139265 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-3184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Known clinical and genetic markers have limitations in predicting disease course and outcome in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). DNA methylation patterns in JMML have correlated with outcome across multiple studies, suggesting it as a biomarker to improve patient stratification. However, standardized approaches to classify JMML on the basis of DNA methylation patterns are lacking. We, therefore, sought to define an international consensus for DNA methylation subgroups in JMML and develop classification methods for clinical implementation. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Published DNA methylation data from 255 patients with JMML were used to develop and internally validate a classifier model. Accuracy across platforms (EPIC-arrays and MethylSeq) was tested using a technical validation cohort (32 patients). The suitability of both methods for single-patient classification was demonstrated using an independent cohort (47 patients). RESULTS Analysis of pooled, published data established three DNA methylation subgroups as a de facto standard. Unfavorable prognostic parameters (PTPN11 mutation, elevated fetal hemoglobin, and older age) were significantly enriched in the high methylation (HM) subgroup. A classifier was then developed that predicted subgroups with 98% accuracy across different technological platforms. Applying the classifier to an independent validation cohort confirmed an association of HM with secondary mutations, high relapse incidence, and inferior overall survival (OS), while the low methylation subgroup was associated with a favorable disease course. Multivariable analysis established DNA methylation subgroups as the only significant factor predicting OS. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an international consensus definition for DNA methylation subgroups in JMML. We developed and validated methods which will facilitate the design of risk-stratified clinical trials in JMML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Schönung
- Section Translational Cancer Epigenomics, Division Translational Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) & National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julia Meyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Peter Nöllke
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Adam B Olshen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Mark Hartmann
- Section Translational Cancer Epigenomics, Division Translational Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) & National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norihiro Murakami
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Manabu Wakamatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yusuke Okuno
- Medical Genomics Center, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Christoph Plass
- Division Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mignon L Loh
- Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Charlotte M Niemeyer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hideki Muramatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Christian Flotho
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elliot Stieglitz
- Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Daniel B Lipka
- Section Translational Cancer Epigenomics, Division Translational Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) & National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany. .,Faculty of Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
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Lasho T, Patnaik MM. Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia – A bona fide RASopathy syndrome. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2020; 33:101171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2020.101171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Marcu A, Colita A, Radu LE, Jercan CG, Bica AM, Asan M, Coriu D, Tanase AD, Diaconu CC, Mambet C, Botezatu A, Pasca S, Teodorescu P, Anton G, Gurban P, Colita A. Single-Center Experience With Epigenetic Treatment for Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia. Front Oncol 2020; 10:484. [PMID: 32328464 PMCID: PMC7161089 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm diagnosed in young children, characterized by somatic or germline mutations that lead to hyperactive RAS signaling. The only curative option is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Recent data showing that aberrant DNA methylation plays a significant role in pathogenesis and correlates with clinical risk suggest a possible benefit of hypomethylating agents (HMA) in JMML treatment. Aim: The aim is to report the results of HMA-based therapy with 5-azacytidine (AZA) in three JMML patients treated in a single center, non-participating in EWOG-MDS study. Methods: The diagnosis and treatment response were evaluated according to international consensus criteria. AZA 75 mg/m2 intravenous (i.v.) was administered once daily on days 1–7 of each 28-day cycle. All patients were monitored for hematologic response, spleen size, and evolution of extramedullary disease. Targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) were performed after the 3rd AZA cycle and before SCT to evaluate the molecular alterations and genetic response. Results: Three patients diagnosed with JMML were treated with AZA (off-label indication) in Pediatric Department of Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania between 2017 and 2019. There were two females and one male with median age 11 months, range 2–16 months. The cytogenetic analysis showed normal karyotype in all patients. Molecular analysis confirmed KRAS G13D mutation in two patients and NRAS G12D mutation in one patient. The clinical evaluation showed important splenomegaly and hepatomegaly in all 3 pts. One patient received AZA for early relapse after haploidentical HSCT and the other two patients received upfront AZA, as bridging therapy before HSCT. After HMA therapy, 2/3 patients achieved clinical partial response (cPR), 1/3 had clinical stable disease (cSD) and all had genetic stable disease (gSD) after 3 cycles and were able to receive the planned HSTC. One patient achieved clinical and genetic complete response before HSCT. During 22 cycles of AZA there were only four adverse events but only one determined dose reduction and treatment delay. Conclusion: Our data show that AZA monotherapy is safe and effective in controlling disease both in upfront and relapsed patients in order to proceed to HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andra Marcu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei Colita
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Coltea Hospital, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Hematology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Letitia Elena Radu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Georgiana Jercan
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Bica
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Minodora Asan
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Coriu
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Hematology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Daniela Tanase
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Hematology, Titu Maiorescu University of Medicine, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen C Diaconu
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Department, Stefan S Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Mambet
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Department, Stefan S Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Botezatu
- Molecular Virology Department, Stefan S Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sergiu Pasca
- Research Center for Functional Genomics and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Patric Teodorescu
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Hematology, Ion Chiricuta Clinical Cancer Center, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriela Anton
- Molecular Virology Department, Stefan S Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Petruta Gurban
- Personal Genetics-Medical Genetics Center, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Colita
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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After 95 years, it's time to eRASe JMML. Blood Rev 2020; 43:100652. [PMID: 31980238 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2020.100652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukaemia (JMML) is a rare clonal disorder of early childhood. Constitutive activation of the RAS pathway is the initial event in JMML. Around 90% of patients diagnosed with JMML carry a mutation in the PTPN11, NRAS, KRAS, NF1 or CBL genes. It has been demonstrated that after this first genetic event, an additional somatic mutation or epigenetic modification is involved in disease progression. The available genetic and clinical data have enabled researchers to establish relationships between JMML and several clinical conditions, including Noonan syndrome, Ras-associated lymphoproliferative disease, and Moyamoya disease. Despite scientific progress and the development of more effective treatments, JMML is still a deadly disease: the 5-year survival rate is ~50%. Here, we report on recent research having led to a better understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in JMML.
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Alsaleh H, Haddrill PR. Identifying blood-specific age-related DNA methylation markers on the Illumina MethylationEPIC® BeadChip. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 303:109944. [PMID: 31546163 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.109944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has seen rapid development in DNA methylation (DNAm) microarrays, including the Illumina HumanMethylation27 and HumanMethylation450 (450K) chips, which have played an essential role in identifying and evaluating age-related (AR) DNAm markers in different tissues. Recently, a new array, the Illumina MethylationEPIC (EPIC) was introduced, with nearly double the number of probes as the 450K (∼850,000 probes). In this study, we test these newly added probes for age association using a large cohort of 754 DNAm profiles from blood samples assayed on the EPIC BeadChip, for individuals aged 0-88 years old. 52 AR CpG sites (Spearman's abs(rho) >0.6 and P-value <10-83) were identified, 21 of which were novel sites and mapped to 18 genes, nine of which (LHFPL4, SLC12A8, EGFEM1P, GPR158, TAL1, KIAA1755, LOC730668, DUSP16, and FAM65C) have never previously been reported to be associated with age. The data were subsequently split into a 527-sample training set and a 227-sample testing set to build and validate two age prediction models using elastic net regression and multivariate regression. Elastic net regression selected 425 CpG markers with a mean absolute deviation (MAD) of 2.6 years based on the testing set. To build a multivariate linear regression model, AR CpG sites with R2 > 0.5 at FDR < 0.05 were input into stepwise regression to select the best subset for age prediction. The resulting six CpG markers were linearly modelled with age and explained 81% of age-correlated variation in DNAm levels. Age estimation accuracy using bootstrap analysis was 4.5 years, with 95% confidence intervals of 4.56 to 4.57 years based on the testing set. These results suggest that EPIC BeadChip probes for age estimation fall within the range of probes found on the previous Illumina HumanMethylation platforms in terms of their age-prediction ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Alsaleh
- Centre for Forensic Science, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK; General Department for Forensic Evidence, State of Kuwait Ministry of Interior, Kuwait.
| | - Penelope R Haddrill
- Centre for Forensic Science, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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Liao XY, Qiu KY, Fang JP, Wu RH, Guo SY, Huang K, Zhou DH. Diagnosis and treatment of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 24:577-582. [PMID: 31389303 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2019.1651548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate clinical features, diagnosis, treatment strategies and prognosis of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Methods: The clinical data of 21 patients with JMML who were diagnosed in our hospital from January 2013 to May 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Among the 21 children with JMML, 16 were male and 5 were female. Out of the 21 children who were diagnosed with JMML, 7 were lost after treatment while the remaining 14 received A-3V chemotherapy regimen of South Korea. The effective response rate was 78.5%. The three-year overall survival (OS) rate and three-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate were (76.2 ± 14.8)% and (66.2 ± 14)%, respectively. Single factor analysis showed that PLT count ≤33×109/L, LDH level >500 U/L and HbF level >10% and chemotherapy only were the significant factors that lead to poor prognosis in children. Cox multivariate analysis showed that the choice of treatment options affected the prognosis of JMML children. By taking prognostic factors for long-term efficacy into account, patients with treatment strategy of chemotherapy alongside hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have a better prognosis. Conclusion: The PLT count, LDH level, HbF level and choice of treatment plan are important for the evaluation of prognosis for children with JMML. Although there is a lack of consistency in terms of donors but the A-3V scheme is relatively stable, so HSCT should be preferred for children with poor prognostic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiong-Yu Liao
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Kun-Yin Qiu
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Pei Fang
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Ruo-Hao Wu
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Yi Guo
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Huang
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
| | - Dun-Hua Zhou
- a Department of Paediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , People's Republic of China
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Wang H, Li F, Liu N, Liu X, Yang X, Guo Y, Bei J, Zeng Y, Shao J. Prognostic implications of a molecular classifier derived from whole-exome sequencing in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Cancer Med 2019; 8:2705-2716. [PMID: 30950204 PMCID: PMC6558473 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to use whole-exome sequencing to derive a molecular classifier for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and evaluate its clinical performance. We performed whole-exome sequencing on 82 primary NPC tumors from Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center (Guangzhou cohort) to obtain somatic single-nucleotide variants, indels, and copy number variants. A novel molecular classifier was then developed and validated in another NPC cohort (Hong Kong cohort, n = 99). Survival analysis was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards model was adopted for univariate and multivariate analyses. We identified three prominent NPC genetic subtypes: RAS/PI3K/AKT (based on RAS, AKT1, and PIK3CA mutations), cell-cycle (based on CDKN2A/CDKN2B deletions, and CDKN1B and CCND1 amplifications), and unclassified (based on dominant mutations in epigenetic regulators, such as KMT2C/2D, or the Notch signaling pathway, such as NOTCH1/2). These subtypes differed in survival analysis, with good, intermediate, and poor progression-free survival in the unclassified, cell-cycle, and RAS/PI3K/AKT subgroups, respectively, among the Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and combined cohorts (n = 82, P = 0.0342; n = 99, P = 0.0372; and n = 181, P = 0.0023; log-rank test). We have uncovered genetic subtypes of NPC with distinct mutations and/or copy number changes, reflecting discrete paths of NPC tumorigenesis and providing a roadmap for developing new prognostic biomarkers and targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai‐Yun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Molecular DiagnosticsSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Fugen Li
- Research and Development Institute of Precision Medicine3D Medicine Inc.ShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Na Liu
- BGI Genomics, BGI‐ShenzhenShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Yun Liu
- Department of Molecular DiagnosticsSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Xin‐Hua Yang
- Department of Molecular DiagnosticsSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yun‐Miao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Experiment ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jin‐Xin Bei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Experiment ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yi‐Xin Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Experiment ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jian‐Yong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of Molecular DiagnosticsSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- School of Laboratory MedicineWannan Medical CollegeWuhu, Anhui ProvinceP. R. China
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12
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Flotho C. Gene mutations do not operate in a vacuum: the increasing importance of epigenetics in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Epigenetics 2019; 14:236-244. [PMID: 30773984 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2019.1583039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) stands out among malignant neoplasms of childhood in several ways. First, JMML is a model condition to elucidate the relevance of deregulated Ras signal transduction in human cancer. Second, the identification of Ras pathway mutations in JMML has informed the field of germline cancer predisposition and advanced the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying the progression from predisposition to neoplasia. Third and not least, genomic DNA methylation was discovered to play a salient role in the classification and prognostication of the disease. This article discusses the evolution of epigenetic research on JMML over the past years and reviews the relevance of aberrant DNA methylation in the diagnosis, concept, and clinical decision-making of JMML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Flotho
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine , University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany.,b German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Freiburg , German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) , Freiburg , Heidelberg , Germany
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13
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Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia: who's the driver at the wheel? Blood 2019; 133:1060-1070. [PMID: 30670449 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-11-844688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a unique clonal hematopoietic disorder of early childhood. It is classified as an overlap myeloproliferative/myelodysplastic neoplasm by the World Health Organization and shares some features with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia in adults. JMML pathobiology is characterized by constitutive activation of the Ras signal transduction pathway. About 90% of patients harbor molecular alterations in 1 of 5 genes (PTPN11, NRAS, KRAS, NF1, or CBL), which define genetically and clinically distinct subtypes. Three of these subtypes, PTPN11-, NRAS-, and KRAS-mutated JMML, are characterized by heterozygous somatic gain-of-function mutations in nonsyndromic children, whereas 2 subtypes, JMML in neurofibromatosis type 1 and JMML in children with CBL syndrome, are defined by germline Ras disease and acquired biallelic inactivation of the respective genes in hematopoietic cells. The clinical course of the disease varies widely and can in part be predicted by age, level of hemoglobin F, and platelet count. The majority of children require allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for long-term leukemia-free survival, but the disease will eventually resolve spontaneously in ∼15% of patients, rendering the prospective identification of these cases a clinical necessity. Most recently, genome-wide DNA methylation profiles identified distinct methylation signatures correlating with clinical and genetic features and highly predictive for outcome. Understanding the genomic and epigenomic basis of JMML will not only greatly improve precise decision making but also be fundamental for drug development and future collaborative trials.
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14
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Argelaguet R, Velten B, Arnol D, Dietrich S, Zenz T, Marioni JC, Buettner F, Huber W, Stegle O. Multi-Omics Factor Analysis-a framework for unsupervised integration of multi-omics data sets. Mol Syst Biol 2018; 14:e8124. [PMID: 29925568 PMCID: PMC6010767 DOI: 10.15252/msb.20178124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 479] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-omics studies promise the improved characterization of biological processes across molecular layers. However, methods for the unsupervised integration of the resulting heterogeneous data sets are lacking. We present Multi-Omics Factor Analysis (MOFA), a computational method for discovering the principal sources of variation in multi-omics data sets. MOFA infers a set of (hidden) factors that capture biological and technical sources of variability. It disentangles axes of heterogeneity that are shared across multiple modalities and those specific to individual data modalities. The learnt factors enable a variety of downstream analyses, including identification of sample subgroups, data imputation and the detection of outlier samples. We applied MOFA to a cohort of 200 patient samples of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, profiled for somatic mutations, RNA expression, DNA methylation and ex vivo drug responses. MOFA identified major dimensions of disease heterogeneity, including immunoglobulin heavy-chain variable region status, trisomy of chromosome 12 and previously underappreciated drivers, such as response to oxidative stress. In a second application, we used MOFA to analyse single-cell multi-omics data, identifying coordinated transcriptional and epigenetic changes along cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricard Argelaguet
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Britta Velten
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Damien Arnol
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Thorsten Zenz
- Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (dkfz) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Germany & Hematology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - John C Marioni
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Florian Buettner
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Helmholtz Zentrum München-German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Computational Biology, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Huber
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Oliver Stegle
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Flotho C, Sommer S, Lübbert M. DNA-hypomethylating agents as epigenetic therapy before and after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in myelodysplastic syndromes and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 51:68-79. [PMID: 29129488 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a clonal bone marrow disorder, typically of older adults, which is characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, peripheral blood cytopenias and risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is an aggressive myeloproliferative neoplasm occurring in young children. The common denominator of these malignant myeloid disorders is the limited benefit of conventional chemotherapy and a particular responsiveness to epigenetic therapy with the DNA-hypomethylating agents 5-azacytidine (azacitidine) or decitabine. However, hypomethylating therapy does not eradicate the malignant clone in MDS or JMML and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains the only curative treatment option. An emerging concept with intriguing potential is the combination of hypomethylating therapy and HSCT. Possible advantages include disease control with good tolerability during donor search and HSCT preparation, improved antitumoral alloimmunity, and reduced risk of relapse even with non-myeloablative regimens. Herein we review the current role of pre- and post-transplant therapy with hypomethylating agents in MDS and JMML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Flotho
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Sommer
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Lübbert
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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16
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Fluhr S, Krombholz CF, Meier A, Epting T, Mücke O, Plass C, Niemeyer CM, Flotho C. Epigenetic dysregulation of the erythropoietic transcription factor KLF1 and the β-like globin locus in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Epigenetics 2017; 12:715-723. [PMID: 28749240 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2017.1356959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) are a hallmark of more than half of the children diagnosed with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Elevated HbF levels in JMML are associated with DNA hypermethylation of distinct gene promoter regions in leukemic cells. Since the regulation of globin gene transcription is known to be under epigenetic control, we set out to study the relation of DNA methylation patterns at β-/γ-globin promoters, mRNA and protein expression of globins, and epigenetic modifications of genes encoding the globin-regulatory transcription factors BCL11A and KLF1 in nucleated erythropoietic precursor cells of patients with JMML. We describe several altered epigenetic components resulting in disordered globin synthesis in JMML. We identify a cis-regulatory upstream KLF1 enhancer sequence as highly sensitive to DNA methylation and frequently hypermethylated in JMML. The data indicate that the dysregulation of β-like globin genes is a genuine attribute of the leukemic cell clone in JMML and involves mechanisms not taking part in the normal fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Fluhr
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine , Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
| | - Christopher Felix Krombholz
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine , Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
| | - Angelina Meier
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine , Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
| | - Thomas Epting
- b Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany
| | - Oliver Mücke
- c Division of Epigenomics and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Christoph Plass
- c Division of Epigenomics and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center , Heidelberg , Germany.,d Multicenter Consortium, The German Cancer Consortium , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Charlotte M Niemeyer
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine , Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany.,d Multicenter Consortium, The German Cancer Consortium , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Christian Flotho
- a Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine , Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany.,d Multicenter Consortium, The German Cancer Consortium , Heidelberg , Germany
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17
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Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDS/MPN) are aggressive myeloid malignancies recognized as a distinct category owing to their unique combination of dysplastic and proliferative features. Although current classification schemes still emphasize morphology and exclusionary criteria, disease-defining somatic mutations and/or germline predisposition alleles are increasingly incorporated into diagnostic algorithms. The developing picture suggests that phenotypes are driven mostly by epigenetic mechanisms that reflect a complex interplay between genotype, physiological processes such as ageing and interactions between malignant haematopoietic cells and the stromal microenvironment of the bone marrow. Despite the rapid accumulation of genetic knowledge, therapies have remained nonspecific and largely inefficient. In this Review, we discuss the pathogenesis of MDS/MPN, focusing on the relationship between genotype and phenotype and the molecular underpinnings of epigenetic dysregulation. Starting with the limitations of current therapies, we also explore how the available mechanistic data may be harnessed to inform strategies to develop rational and more effective treatments, and which gaps in our knowledge need to be filled to translate biological understanding into clinical progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W N Deininger
- Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Tyner
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health &Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
| | - Eric Solary
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy, Faculté de médecine Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, F-94805 Villejuif, France
- Department of Hematology, Gustave Roussy, F-94805 Villejuif, France
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18
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Lee S, Borah S, Bahrami A. Detection of Aberrant TERT Promoter Methylation by Combined Bisulfite Restriction Enzyme Analysis for Cancer Diagnosis. J Mol Diagn 2017; 19:378-386. [PMID: 28284778 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant CpG dinucleotide methylation in a specific region of the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter is associated with increased TERT mRNA levels and malignancy in several cancer types. However, routine screening of this region to aid cancer diagnosis can be challenging because i) several established methylation assays may inaccurately report on hypermethylation of this particular region, ii) interpreting the results of methylation assays can sometimes be difficult for clinical laboratories, and iii) use of high-throughput methylation assays for a few patient samples can be cost prohibitive. Herein, we describe the use of combined bisulfite restriction enzyme analysis (COBRA) as a diagnostic tool for detecting the hypermethylated TERT promoter using in vitro methylated and unmethylated genomic DNA as well as genomic DNA from four melanomas and two benign melanocytic lesions. We compare COBRA with MassARRAY, a more commonly used high-throughput approach, in screening for promoter hypermethylation in 28 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded neuroblastoma samples. COBRA sensitively and specifically detected samples with hypermethylated TERT promoter and was as effective as MassARRAY at differentiating high-risk from benign or low-risk tumors. This study demonstrates the utility of this low-cost, technically straightforward, and easily interpretable assay for cancer diagnosis in tumors of an ambiguous nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungjae Lee
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Sumit Borah
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Armita Bahrami
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.
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