1
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Lin W, Wan X, Sun A, Zhou M, Chen X, Li Y, Wang Z, Huang H, Li H, Chen X, Hua J, Zha X. RUNX1/EGFR pathway contributes to STAT3 activation and tumor growth caused by hyperactivated mTORC1. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2021; 23:387-401. [PMID: 34853810 PMCID: PMC8605091 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of function of tuberous sclerosis complex 1 or 2 (TSC1 or TSC2) leads to the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Hyperactivated mTORC1 plays a critical role in tumor growth, but the underlying mechanism is still not completely elucidated. Here, by analyzing Tsc1- or Tsc2-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts, rat Tsc2-null ELT3 cells, and human cancer cells, we present evidence for the involvement of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as a downstream target of mTORC1 in tumor growth. We show that mTORC1 leads to increased EGFR expression through upregulation of runt-related transcriptional factor 1 (RUNX1). Knockdown of EGFR impairs proliferation and tumoral growth of Tsc-deficient cells, while overexpression of EGFR promotes the proliferation of the control cells. Moreover, the mTOR signaling pathway has been shown to be positively correlated with EGFR in human cancers. In addition, we demonstrated that EGFR enhances cell growth through activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). We conclude that activation of the RUNX1/EGFR/STAT3 signaling pathway contributes to tumorigenesis caused by hyperactivated mTORC1 and should be targeted for the treatment of mTORC1-related tumors, particularly TSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lin
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China.,Department of Laboratory, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Anjiang Sun
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Meng Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Yanling Li
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Zixi Wang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Hailiang Huang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Hongwu Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xianguo Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Juan Hua
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xiaojun Zha
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
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Liu Y, Guo Z, Zhao C, Li X, Liu H, Chen J. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis: a case report and review of diagnosis and treatment. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:5339-5347. [PMID: 30214240 PMCID: PMC6126514 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s161360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare disease that generally affects young women and involves the abnormal proliferation of smooth muscle-like cells (LAM cells) in the lungs (pulmonary LAM) and extrapulmonary sites (extrapulmonary LAM). This disease is rare in males. It is hard to distinguish between lung cancer and pulmonary LAM, especially during early stages. Herein, we present a case of a 66-year-old man with a small nodule in the right upper lobe that was first diagnosed as a lung malignancy using a chest CT scan. After a wedge dissection, a pathologist performed a histologic and immunohistochemical examination, and a diagnosis of pulmonary LAM was made. We further performed a 518-gene panel analysis using next-generation sequencing, and only three genes, BARD1, BLM, and BRCA2, were found to have mutations. We also provide a summary of the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
| | - Zhibin Guo
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
| | - Chenlong Zhao
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China,
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3
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Goldberg AA, Joung KB, Mansuri A, Kang Y, Echavarria R, Nikolajev L, Sun Y, Yu JJ, Laporte SA, Schwertani A, Kristof AS. Oncogenic effects of urotensin-II in cells lacking tuberous sclerosis complex-2. Oncotarget 2018; 7:61152-61165. [PMID: 27458154 PMCID: PMC5308642 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a destructive lung disease that can arise sporadically or in adults suffering from the tumor syndrome tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Microscopic tumors ('LAM nodules') in the lung interstitium arise from lymphatic invasion and metastasis. These consist of smooth muscle-like cells (LAM cells) that exhibit markers of neural crest differentiation and loss of the tumor suppressor protein 'tuberous sclerosis complex-2' (TSC2). Consistent with a neural phenotype, expression of the neuropeptide urotensin-II and its receptor was detected in LAM nodules. We hypothesized that loss of TSC2 sensitizes cells to the oncogenic effects of urotensin-II. TSC2-deficient Eker rat uterine leiomyoma ELT3 cells were stably transfected with empty vector or plasmid for the expression of TSC2. Urotensin-II increased cell viability and proliferation in TSC2-deficient cells, but not in TSC2-reconstituted cells. When exposed to urotensin-II, TSC2-deficient cells exhibited greater migration, anchorage-independent cell growth, and matrix invasion. The effects of urotensin-II on TSC2-deficient cells were blocked by the urotensin receptor antagonist SB657510, and accompanied by activation of Erk mitogen-activated protein kinase and focal adhesion kinase. Urotensin-II-induced proliferation and migration were reproduced in TSC2-deficient human angiomyolipoma cells, but not in those stably expressing TSC2. In a mouse xenograft model, SB657510 blocked the growth of established ELT3 tumors, reduced the number of circulating tumor cells, and attenuated the production of VEGF-D, a clinical biomarker of LAM. Urotensin receptor antagonists may be selective therapeutic agents for the treatment of LAM or other neural crest-derived neoplasms featuring loss of TSC2 or increased expression of the urotensin receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Goldberg
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kwang-Bo Joung
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Asma Mansuri
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yujin Kang
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Raquel Echavarria
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ljiljana Nikolajev
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yang Sun
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Jane J Yu
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Stephane A Laporte
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adel Schwertani
- Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Arnold S Kristof
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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4
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Taveira-DaSilva AM, Moss J. Addressing the challenges of lymphangioleiomyomatosis assessment in the clinic. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2017.1400966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angelo M. Taveira-DaSilva
- Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joel Moss
- Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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5
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Osterburg AR, Nelson RL, Yaniv BZ, Foot R, Donica WR, Nashu MA, Liu H, Wikenheiser-Brokamp KA, Moss J, Gupta N, McCormack FX, Borchers MT. NK cell activating receptor ligand expression in lymphangioleiomyomatosis is associated with lung function decline. JCI Insight 2016; 1:e87270. [PMID: 27734028 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.87270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare lung disease of women that leads to progressive cyst formation and accelerated loss of pulmonary function. Neoplastic smooth muscle cells from an unknown source metastasize to the lung and drive destructive remodeling. Given the role of NK cells in immune surveillance, we postulated that NK cell activating receptors and their cognate ligands are involved in LAM pathogenesis. We found that ligands for the NKG2D activating receptor UL-16 binding protein 2 (ULBP2) and ULBP3 are localized in cystic LAM lesions and pulmonary nodules. We found elevated soluble serum ULBP2 (mean = 575 pg/ml ± 142) in 50 of 100 subjects and ULBP3 in 30 of 100 (mean = 8,300 pg/ml ± 1,515) subjects. LAM patients had fewer circulating NKG2D+ NK cells and decreased NKG2D surface expression. Lung function decline was associated with soluble NKG2D ligand (sNKG2DL) detection. The greatest rate of decline forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1, -124 ± 30 ml/year) in the 48 months after enrollment (NHLBI LAM Registry) occurred in patients expressing both ULBP2 and ULBP3, whereas patients with undetectable sNKG2DL levels had the lowest rate of FEV1 decline (-32.7 ± 10 ml/year). These data suggest a role for NK cells, sNKG2DL, and the innate immune system in LAM pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R Osterburg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Rebecca L Nelson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Benyamin Z Yaniv
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Rachel Foot
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Walter Rf Donica
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Madison A Nashu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Kathryn A Wikenheiser-Brokamp
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine and Perinatal Institute, Division of Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Joel Moss
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Nishant Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Francis X McCormack
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael T Borchers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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6
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Cao GD, Chen K, Xiong MM, Chen B. HER3, but Not HER4, Plays an Essential Role in the Clinicopathology and Prognosis of Gastric Cancer: A Meta-Analysis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161219. [PMID: 27536774 PMCID: PMC4990181 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family plays an important role in gastric cancer (GC), especially HER2. Too much attention has been paid to HER2; however, the functions of HER3 and HER4 overexpression in GC are always ignored. The clinicopathological and prognostic roles of HER3 and HER4 in GC are controversial. In this study, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the use of HER3 or HER4 as a predictor of clinicopathology and survival time in GC patients. Methods Eligible studies were searched on PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases through multiple search strategies. Data collection and statistical analysis were carried out by the Revman 5.3 software. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of included studies. Results A total of 448 studies about HER3 overexpression and GC, and 398 studies about HER4 overexpression and GC were searched. Of these, 5 eligible studies about HER3 including 1016 GC patients and 3 eligible studies about HER4 including 793 GC patients met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that HER3 and HER4 overexpression were significantly associated with depth of tumor invasion (OR = 0.44, 95%CI 0.29–0.67, P = 0.0002 and OR = 0.50, 95%CI 0.38–0.86, P = 0.007) and lymph node metastasis (OR = 0.40, 95%CI 0.20–0.77, P = 0.007 and OR = 0.57, 95%CI 0.38–0.86, P = 0.007), and HER3 overexpression reveals a tendency of later tumor node metastases (TNM) stage (OR = 0.50, 95%CI 0.22–1.15, P = 0.10) and predicts a worse survival time (RR = 0.71, 95%CI 0.61–0.84, P<0.00001), while HER4 overexpression had no correlation with TNM stage (OR = 0.60, 95%CI 0.20–1.78) and survival time (RR = 1.09, 95%CI 0.91–1.30). Conclusions This meta-analysis indicated that HER3 plays an essential role in the clinicopathology and prognosis of GC. However, HER4 may not be an ideal prognostic factor for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-dong Cao
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
| | - Ke Chen
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
| | - Mao-ming Xiong
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
- * E-mail: (MMX); (BC)
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
- * E-mail: (MMX); (BC)
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7
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a disease of women characterized by cystic lung destruction, lymphatic involvement, and renal angiomyolipomas. AREAS COVERED LAM is caused by proliferation of abnormal smooth muscle-like LAM cells containing mutations and perhaps epigenetic modifications of the TSC1 or TSC2 genes, which encode, respectively, hamartin and tuberin, two proteins controlling the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. LAM occurs sporadically or in association with tuberous sclerosis complex. LAM may present with dyspnea, recurrent pneumothorax or chylothorax. Pulmonary function tests show reduced flow rates and lung diffusion capacity. Exercise testing may reveal hypoxemia and ventilatory limitation. The severity and progression of disease may be assessed by computer tomography, and pulmonary function and exercise testing. mTOR inhibitors, (e.g., sirolimus) are effective in stabilizing lung function, and reducing the size of chylous effusions, lymphangioleiomyomas, and angiomyolipomas. EXPERT OPINION Different clinical phenotypes including variable rates of disease progression and variable responses to therapy are seen in LAM patients. No one test is available that predicts the course of disease at the time of diagnosis. Further research regarding the molecular biology of LAM clinical phenotypes is warranted. Recent advances in the characterization of the pathogenesis of LAM are leading to the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo M. Taveira-DaSilva
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 10, Room 6D03, MSC 1590, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1590, USA
| | - Joel Moss
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 10, Room 6D03, MSC 1590, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1590, USA
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Anti-EGFR antibody reduces lung nodules by inhibition of EGFR-pathway in a model of lymphangioleiomyomatosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:315240. [PMID: 25699271 PMCID: PMC4324894 DOI: 10.1155/2015/315240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
EGFR belongs to the HER/ErbB family of tyrosine kinase receptors and its activation in cancer cells has been linked with increased proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare, low-grade neoplasm that occurs sporadically or in association with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic, multisystem disorder characterized by hamartomas in several organs. From chylous of a LAM/TSC patient, we previously isolated smooth muscle-like LAM/TSC cells whose proliferation depends on EGF and monoclonal anti-EGFR antibodies reduced proliferation and caused cell death. We demonstrated that the dependency from EGF was caused by the absence of tuberin. To study the role of EGFR pathway in vivo, we developed a mouse model by administration of LAM/TSC cells to female nude mice. LAM/TSC cells caused pulmonary airspace enlargement and, after 30 weeks, nodule formation which express EGFR. Anti-EGFR antibody decreased the number and dimension of lung nodules likely for the inhibition of Erk and S6 signaling, reversed the pulmonary alterations, and reduced lymphatic and blood vessels. Moreover, in pulmonary nodules anti-EGFR antibody reduced the positivity to estrogen and progesterone receptors which enhance survival of LAM cells and Snail expression. These results suggest that the inhibition of EGFR signalling has a potential in treatment of LAM/TSC lung alterations.
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9
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Wang L, Yuan H, Li Y, Han Y. The role of HER3 in gastric cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2014; 68:809-12. [PMID: 25194439 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2014.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality in the world. HER family tyrosine kinases play a critical role in the development of gastric cancer. The HER family of receptor tyrosine kinases includes EGF receptor (EGFR), HER2, HER3, and HER4. Targeted drugs antineoplastic therapies such as EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors have application with confrontation of gastric cancer. However, less attention has been paid to the oncogenic functions of HER3 essepecially in the gastric cancer due to its lack of intrinsic kinase activity. Recent work, however, has placed the role of HER3 in gastric cancer in the spotlight as a key signaling hub in several contexts. First, HER3 overexpression may be associated with poor prognosis and unfavorable survival mediated by PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Second, a large amount of direct evidence has emerged the benefit of anti-HER3 agents in combination with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors as well as anti-HER2 agents in gastric cancer. Furthermore, we can further elucidate the relationship between HER3 and MET inhibitors in gastric cancer that the development of resistance to MET inhibitors may result from the overexpression of HER3. This review focuses on the current achievements of the relationship between HER3 and gastric cancer in vivo and in vitro, the development of HER3 molecule-targeted therapy, additionally, the challenge which we will meet in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Hengheng Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Yanjing Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Yu Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China.
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10
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Lesma E, Ancona S, Sirchia SM, Orpianesi E, Grande V, Colapietro P, Chiaramonte E, Di Giulio AM, Gorio A. TSC2 epigenetic defect in primary LAM cells. Evidence of an anchorage-independent survival. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 18:766-79. [PMID: 24606538 PMCID: PMC4119383 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is caused by mutations in TSC1 or TSC2 genes. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) can be sporadic or associated with TSC and is characterized by widespread pulmonary proliferation of abnormal α-smooth muscle (ASM)-like cells. We investigated the features of ASM cells isolated from chylous thorax of a patient affected by LAM associated with TSC, named LAM/TSC cells, bearing a germline TSC2 mutation and an epigenetic defect causing the absence of tuberin. Proliferation of LAM/TSC cells is epidermal growth factor (EGF)-dependent and blockade of EGF receptor causes cell death as we previously showed in cells lacking tuberin. LAM/TSC cells spontaneously detach probably for the inactivation of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/Akt/mTOR pathway and display the ability to survive independently from adhesion. Non-adherent LAM/TSC cells show an extremely low proliferation rate consistent with tumour stem-cell characteristics. Moreover, LAM/TSC cells bear characteristics of stemness and secrete high amount of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8. Anti-EGF receptor antibodies and rapamycin affect proliferation and viability of non-adherent cells. In conclusion, the understanding of LAM/TSC cell features is important in the assessment of cell invasiveness in LAM and TSC and should provide a useful model to test therapeutic approaches aimed at controlling their migratory ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Lesma
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Dept. of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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11
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Lesma E, Ancona S, Orpianesi E, Grande V, Di Giulio AM, Gorio A. Chromatin remodeling by rosuvastatin normalizes TSC2-/meth cell phenotype through the expression of tuberin. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2013; 345:180-8. [PMID: 23426956 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.113.203141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a multi-systemic syndrome caused by mutations in TSC1 or TSC2 gene. In TSC2-null cells, Rheb, a member of the Ras family of GTPases, is constitutively activated. Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase and block the synthesis of isoprenoid lipids with inhibition of Rheb farnesylation and RhoA geranylgeranylation. The effects of rosuvastatin on the function of human TSC2(-/-) and TSC2(-/meth) α-actin smooth muscle (ASM) cells have been investigated. The TSC2(-/-) and TSC2(-/meth) ASM cells, previously isolated in our laboratory from the renal angiomyolipoma of two TSC patients, do not express tuberin and bear loss of heterozigosity caused by a double hit on TSC2 and methylation of TSC2 promoter, respectively. Exposure to rosuvastatin affected TSC2(-/meth) ASM cell growth and promoted tuberin expression by acting as a demethylating agent. This occurred without changes in interleukin release. Rosuvastatin also reduced RhoA activation in TSC2(-/meth) ASM cells, and it required coadministration with the specific mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) inhibitor rapamycin to be effective in TSC2(-/-) ASM cells. Rapamycin enhanced rosuvastatin effect in inhibiting cell proliferation in TSC2(-/-) and TSC2(-/meth) ASM cells. Rosuvastatin alone did not alter phosphorylation of S6 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and at the higher concentration, rosuvastatin and rapamycin slightly decreased ERK phosphorylation. These results suggest that rosuvastatin may potentially represent a treatment adjunct to the therapy with mTOR inhibitors now in clinical development for TSC. In particular, rosuvastatin appears useful when the disease is originated by epigenetic defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Lesma
- Laboratories of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via di Rudini', 8, 20142 Milano, Italy.
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12
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Lesma E, Eloisa C, Isaia E, Grande V, Ancona S, Orpianesi E, Di Giulio AM, Gorio A. Development of a lymphangioleiomyomatosis model by endonasal administration of human TSC2-/- smooth muscle cells in mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 181:947-60. [PMID: 22770663 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2011] [Revised: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is an interstitial lung disease characterized by invasion and proliferation of abnormal smooth muscle (ASM) cells in lung parenchyma and axial lymphatics. LAM cells bear mutations in tuberous sclerosis (TSC) genes. TSC2(-/-) ASM cells, derived from a human renal angiomyolipoma, require epidermal growth factor (EGF) for proliferation. Blockade of EGF receptors (EGFR) causes cell death. TSC2(-/-) ASM cells, previously labeled with PKH26-GL dye, were endonasally administered to 5-week-old immunodeficient female nude mice, and 4 or 26 weeks later anti-EGFR antibody or rapamycin was administered twice a week for 4 consecutive weeks. TSC2(-/-) ASM cells infiltrated lymph nodes and alveolar lung walls, causing progressive destruction of parenchyma. Parenchymal destruction was efficiently reversed by anti-EGFR treatment and partially by rapamycin treatment. Following TSC2(-/-) ASM cell administration, lymphangiogenesis increased in lungs as indicated by more diffuse LYVE1 expression and high murine VEGF levels. Anti-EGFR antibody and rapamycin blocked the increase in lymphatic vessels. This study shows that TSC2(-/-) ASM cells can migrate and invade lungs and lymph nodes, and anti-EGFR antibody is more effective than rapamycin in promoting lung repair and reducing lymphangiogenesis. The development of a model to study metastasis by TSC cells will also help to explain how they invade different tissues and metastasize to the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Lesma
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Italy.
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Liu F, Lunsford EP, Tong J, Ashitate Y, Gibbs SL, Yu J, Choi HS, Henske EP, Frangioni JV. Real-time monitoring of tumorigenesis, dissemination, & drug response in a preclinical model of lymphangioleiomyomatosis/tuberous sclerosis complex. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38589. [PMID: 22719903 PMCID: PMC3376142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background TSC2-deficient cells can proliferate in the lungs, kidneys, and other organs causing devastating progressive multisystem disorders such as lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Preclinical models utilizing LAM patient-derived cells have been difficult to establish. We developed a novel animal model system to study the molecular mechanisms of TSC/LAM pathogenesis and tumorigenesis and provide a platform for drug testing. Methods and Findings TSC2-deficient human cells, derived from the angiomyolipoma of a LAM patient, were engineered to co-express both sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) and green fluorescent protein (GFP). Cells were inoculated intraparenchymally, intravenously, or intratracheally into athymic NCr nu/nu mice and cells were tracked and quantified using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and computed tomography (CT). Surprisingly, TSC2-deficient cells administered intratracheally resulted in rapid dissemination to lymph node basins throughout the body, and histopathological changes in the lung consistent with LAM. Estrogen was found to be permissive for tumor growth and dissemination. Rapamycin inhibited tumor growth, but tumors regrew after the drug treatment was withdrawn. Conclusions We generated homogeneous NIS/GFP co-expressing TSC2-deficient, patient-derived cells that can proliferate and migrate in vivo after intratracheal instillation. Although the animal model we describe has some limitations, we demonstrate that systemic tumors formed from TSC2-deficient cells can be monitored and quantified noninvasively over time using SPECT/CT, thus providing a much needed model system for in vivo drug testing and mechanistic studies of TSC2-deficient cells and their related clinical syndromes.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Blotting, Western
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic
- Disease Models, Animal
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/genetics
- Humans
- Lymphangioleiomyomatosis/drug therapy
- Lymphangioleiomyomatosis/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Nude
- Microscopy, Fluorescence
- Monitoring, Physiologic/methods
- Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
- Tuberous Sclerosis/drug therapy
- Tuberous Sclerosis/pathology
- Tuberous Sclerosis Complex 2 Protein
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Tumor Suppressor Proteins/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangbing Liu
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Elaine P. Lunsford
- Longwood Small Animal Imaging Facility, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jingli Tong
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yoshitomo Ashitate
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Summer L. Gibbs
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jane Yu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Hak Soo Choi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth P. Henske
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - John V. Frangioni
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Nam HJ, Ching KA, Kan J, Kim HP, Han SW, Im SA, Kim TY, Christensen JG, Oh DY, Bang YJ. Evaluation of the Antitumor Effects and Mechanisms of PF00299804, a Pan-HER Inhibitor, Alone or in Combination with Chemotherapy or Targeted Agents in Gastric Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2011; 11:439-51. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-11-0494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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15
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Siroky BJ, Yin H, Bissler JJ. Clinical and molecular insights into tuberous sclerosis complex renal disease. Pediatr Nephrol 2011; 26:839-52. [PMID: 21152937 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-010-1689-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Revised: 09/15/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Patients with tuberous sclerosis complex are at great risk of developing renal lesions as part of their disease. These lesions include renal cysts and tumors. Significant advances in understanding the cell biology of these renal lesions has already led to clinical trials demonstrating that pharmacological interventions are likely possible. This review focuses on the pathology of these renal lesions, their underlying cell biology, and the possible therapeutic strategies that may prove to significantly improve care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Siroky
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, MLC 7022, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229-3039, USA
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Marfia G, Madaschi L, Marra F, Menarini M, Bottai D, Formenti A, Bellardita C, Di Giulio AM, Carelli S, Gorio A. Adult neural precursors isolated from post mortem brain yield mostly neurons: an erythropoietin-dependent process. Neurobiol Dis 2011; 43:86-98. [PMID: 21324364 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2010] [Revised: 02/02/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was aimed at the isolation of neural precursor cells (NPCs) capable of resisting to a prolonged ischemic insult as this may occur at the site of traumatic and ischemic CNS injuries. Adult mice were anesthetized and then killed by cervical dislocation. The cadavers were maintained at room temperature or at 4°C for different time periods. Post mortem neural precursors (PM-NPCs) were isolated, grown in vitro and their differentiation capability was investigated by evaluating the expression of different neuronal markers. PM-NPCs differentiate mostly in neurons, show activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 and MAPK, and express both erythropoietin (EPO) and its receptor (EPO-R). The exposure of PM-NPCs to neutralizing antibodies to EPO or EPO-R dramatically reduced the extent of neuronal differentiation to about 11% of total PM-NPCs. The functionality of mTOR and MAPK is also required for the expression of the neuronal phenotype by PM-NPCs. These results suggest that PM-NPCs can be isolated from animal cadaver even several hours after death and their self-renewable capability is comparable to normal neural precursors. Differently, their ability to achieve a neural phenotype is superior to that of NPCs, and this is mediated by the activation of hypoxia-induced factor 1 and EPO signaling. PM-NPCs may represent good candidates for transplantation studies in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Marfia
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Milan, Polo H San Paolo, via A di Rudinì 8, Milan, Italy
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Enhanced epidermal growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in tuberous sclerosis complex. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2010; 178:296-305. [PMID: 21224066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Revised: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor (EGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulate angiogenesis and cell growth in the developing brain. EGF, HGF, and VEGF modulate the activity of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) cascade, a pathway regulating cell growth that is aberrantly activated in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). We hypothesized that expression of EGF, HGF, VEGF, and their receptors EGFR, c-Met, and Flt-1, respectively, would be altered in TSC. We show by cDNA array and immunohistochemical analysis that EGF, EGFR, HGF, c-Met, and VEGF, but not Flt-1, mRNA, and protein expression was up-regulated in Tsc1 conditional knockout (Tsc1(GFAP)CKO) mouse cortex. Importantly, these alterations closely predicted enhanced expression of these proteins in tuber and subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) specimens in TSC. Expression of EGF, EGFR, HGF, c-Met, and VEGF protein, as well as hypoxia inducible factor-1α, a transcription factor that regulates VEGF levels and is also modulated by mTOR cascade activity, was enhanced in SEGAs (n = 6) and tubers (n = 10) from 15 TSC patients. Enhanced expression of these growth factors and growth factor receptors in human SEGAs and tubers and in the Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mouse may account for enhanced cellular growth and proliferation in tubers and SEGAs and provides potential target molecules for therapeutic development in TSC.
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Darling TN, Pacheco-Rodriguez G, Gorio A, Lesma E, Walker C, Moss J. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis and TSC2-/- cells. Lymphat Res Biol 2010; 8:59-69. [PMID: 20235888 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2009.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cells comprising pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) are heterogeneous, with variable mixtures of cells exhibiting differentiation towards smooth muscle, fat, and vessels. Cells grown from LAM and AMLs have likewise tended to be heterogeneous. The discovery that LAM and AMLs contain cells with mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes is allowing investigators to discriminate between "two-hit" cells and neighboring cells, providing insights into disease pathogenesis. In rare cases, it has been possible to derive cells from human tumors, including AMLs and TSC skin tumors that are highly enriched for TSC2(-/-) cells. Cells derived from an Eker rat uterine leiomyoma (ELT3 cells) are Tsc2-null and these have been used in a rodent cell models for LAM. Further improvements in the ability to reliably grow well-characterized TSC2(-/-) cells from human tumors are critical to developing in vitro and in vivo model systems for studies of LAM pathogenesis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas N Darling
- Department of Dermatology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA.
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Martignoni G, Pea M, Reghellin D, Gobbo S, Zamboni G, Chilosi M, Bonetti F. Molecular pathology of lymphangioleiomyomatosis and other perivascular epithelioid cell tumors. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2010; 134:33-40. [PMID: 20073603 DOI: 10.5858/2008-0542-rar1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a cystic lung disease that can be included in the wide group of proliferative lesions named PEComas (perivascular epithelioid cell tumors). These proliferative tumors are characterized by the coexpression of myogenic and melanogenesis-related markers. In all these lesions, genetic alterations related to the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) have been demonstrated. Striking improvements in the understanding of the genetic basis of this autosomal dominant genetic disease are coupled to the understanding of the mechanisms that link the loss of TSC1 (9q34) or TSC2 (16p13.3) genes with the regulation of the Rheb/m-TOR/p70S6K pathway. These data have opened a new era in the comprehension of the pathogenesis of LAM and have also suggested new therapeutic strategies for this potentially lethal disease. OBJECTIVE To present and discuss the pathologic and molecular features of LAM within the spectrum of PEComas, providing a rational approach to their diagnosis. DATA SOURCES The published literature and personal experience. CONCLUSIONS The inclusion of LAM within the PEComa category is supported by a variety of biologic data and can significantly help in providing a comprehensive view of this interesting and clinically relevant group of lesions. The demonstration of molecular alterations of the mTOR pathway in LAM and other PEComas represents a rational basis for innovative therapeutic approaches with inhibitors of mTOR signaling.
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Zhang XL, Yang YS, Xu DP, Qu JH, Guo MZ, Gong Y, Huang J. Comparative study on overexpression of HER2/neu and HER3 in gastric cancer. World J Surg 2009; 33:2112-8. [PMID: 19636613 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-009-0142-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Owing to the special importance of the HER family in tumorigenesis, the downstream signaling pathways and effectors have become the key molecules in the strategy of carcinoma-targeted therapy. Recent evidence that HER3 is responsible for tumor resistance to therapeutic agents targeting EGFR or HER2/neu, along with the new findings that HER3 is involved in the process of dedifferentiation of gastric cancer (GC) have highlighted the critical role of HER3 in cancer research. HER3 is becoming a new targeted molecule in cancer treatment. Here, we comparatively investigated the expression of HER2/neu and HER3 in gastric cancer of two pathologic types (intestinal type and diffuse type) using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and analyzed the correlation between overexpression of HER2 and HER3 and clinicopathologic parameters. METHODS An IHC study for HER2 and HER3 was performed on 102 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens of GC-60 intestinal and 42 diffuse types. The correlation between overexpression of HER2 and HER3 and clinicopathologic parameters was statistically analyzed. RESULTS In the GC group, overexpression of HER2 and HER3 was detected in 19 (18.6%) and 14 (13.7%) of 102 GC patients, respectively. In a nontumorous group of 102 specimens, 5 were HER2-positive (4.9%) (18.6% vs. 4.9%, p < 0.01), and 2 were HER3-positive (2.0%) (13.7% vs. 2.0%, p < 0.01). No co-overexpression of HER2 and HER3 was observed. The intestinal type of GC exhibited a higher rate of HER2 overexpression than did the diffuse type (26.7% vs. 7.1%, p < 0.05), whereas the diffuse type of GC exhibited a significantly higher rate of HER3 overexpression than did the intestinal type (26.2% vs. 5.0%, p < 0.01). The overexpression rates of HER2 and HER3 in phase III-IV (TNM stage) disease were significantly higher than that in phase I-II disease (24.0% vs. 7.7%, p < 0.05 and 22.0% vs. 5.8%, p < 0.05, respectively). HER2 and HER3 overexpression was also correlated with a significantly worse survival (p = 0.046 and 0.024, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The selective overexpression of HER2 and HER3 in the two histologic types of gastric cancer is strongly associated with a poor prognosis. Being an important member of the HER family, HER3 may become another candidate for molecular-targeted therapy in gastric cancer, especially for the diffuse histologic type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu Li Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853, China
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Lesma E, Sirchia SM, Ancona S, Carelli S, Bosari S, Ghelma F, Montanari E, Di Giulio AM, Gorio A. The methylation of the TSC2 promoter underlies the abnormal growth of TSC2 angiomyolipoma-derived smooth muscle cells. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 174:2150-9. [PMID: 19443708 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.080799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal-dominant disease that is caused by mutations in either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene. Smooth muscle-like cells (ASMs) were isolated from an angiomyolipoma of a patient with TSC. These cells lacked tuberin, were labeled by both HMB45 and CD44v6 antibodies, and had constitutive S6 phosphorylation. The cells bear a germline TSC2 intron 8-exon 9 junction mutation, but DNA analysis and polymerase chain reaction amplification failed to demonstrate loss of heterozygosity. Testing for an epigenetic alteration, we detected methylation of the TSC2 promoter. Its biological relevance was confirmed by tuberin expression and a reduction in HMB45 labeling and S6 constitutive phosphorylation after exposure to the chromatin-remodeling agents, trichostatin A and 5-azacytidine. These cells were named TSC2(-/meth) ASMs. Their proliferation required epidermal growth factor in the medium as previously described for TSC2(-/-) ASMs. Blockade of epidermal growth factor with monoclonal antibodies caused the death of TSC2(-/meth) ASMs. In addition, rapamycin effectively blocked the proliferation of these cells. Our data show for the first time that methylation of the TSC2 promoter might cause a complete loss of tuberin in TSC2 cells, and that the pathogenesis of angiomyolipomas might also originate from epigenetic defects in smooth muscle cells. Additionally, the effect of chromatin-remodeling agents in these cells suggests a further avenue for the treatment of TSC as well as lymphangioleiomyomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Lesma
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Dept. of Medicine, Surgery, and Dentistry, Via A. di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milano, Italy.
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