1
|
Zou H, Liu C, Ruan Y, Fang L, Wu T, Han S, Dang T, Meng H, Zhang Y. Colorectal medullary carcinoma: a pathological subtype with intense immune response and potential to benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38459764 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2328746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Different pathological types of colorectal cancer have distinguished immune landscape, and the efficacy of immunotherapy will be completely different. Colorectal medullary carcinoma, accounting for 2.2-3.2%, is characterized by massive lymphocyte infiltration. However, the attention to the immune characteristics of colorectal medullary carcinoma is insufficient. AREA COVERED We searched the literature about colorectal medullary carcinoma on PubMed through November 2023to investigate the hallmarks of colorectal medullary carcinoma's immune landscape, compare medullary carcinoma originating from different organs and provide theoretical evidence for precise treatment, including applying immunotherapy and BRAF inhibitors. EXPERT OPINION Colorectal medullary carcinoma is a pathological subtype with intense immune response, with six immune characteristics and has the potential to benefit from immunotherapy. Mismatch repair deficiency, ARID1A missing and BRAF V600E mutation often occurs. IFN-γ pathway is activated and PD-L1 expression is increased. Abundant lymphocyte infiltration performs tumor killing function. In addition, BRAF mutation plays an important role in the occurrence and development, and we can consider the combination of BRAF inhibitors and immunotherapy in patients with BRAF mutant. The exploration of colorectal medullary carcinoma will arouse researchers' attention to the correlation between pathological subtypes and immune response, and promote the process of precise immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoyi Zou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology in Heilongjiang, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yuli Ruan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology in Heilongjiang, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Lin Fang
- Phase I Clinical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University in Shandong, Qingdao, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Shuling Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Tianjiao Dang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Hongxue Meng
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yanqiao Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology in Heilongjiang, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
- Clinical Research Center for Colorectal Cancer in Heilongjiang, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wusiman D, Guo L, Li L, Zhang X, Zhao X, An Z, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Li Z, Ying J, Wei M, Li W, An C. Clinicopathological and prognostic significance of PD-L1 and TIM-3 expression in medullary thyroid carcinoma: a retrospective immunohistochemistry study. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:91-100. [PMID: 37464189 PMCID: PMC10776706 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02126-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Expression of the programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) has been controversial and rarely reported. METHODS Surgical specimens of 190 MTC patients who had initial curative-intent surgery were collected. Immunohistochemistry of PD-L1 and TIM-3 was performed using 22C3 pharmDx (Dako, Carpinteria, CA) and anti-TIM-3 (1:500, ab241332, Abcam). Stained slides were scored using a combined positive score (CPS) with a cutoff of ≥ 1. We established correlations between PD-L1 expression, TIM-3 expression, clinicopathological, and survival data. RESULTS 13 cases (13/190, 6.84%) were positive for PD-L1 expression, and 42 cases (42/154, 27.27%) for TIM-3 expression. PD-L1 expression was correlated to TIM-3 expression (P = 0.002), but was not related to overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS). TIM-3 expression was correlated to perineural invasion (P = 0.040). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that lymphovascular invasion (LVI) was independently associated with OS. And tumor size, LVI, and lymph node metastases were significantly associated with PFS. Furthermore, the multivariate logistic analysis showed multifocal status, LVI, pathological T stage and lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for biochemical recurrence/persistent disease. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that PD-L1 and TIM-3 expression were not frequent in MTC and were not associated with survival prognosis. Our results should be considered when clinical trials of PD-L1 or TIM-3 blockades are implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Wusiman
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - L Guo
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - L Li
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - X Zhang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - X Zhao
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Z An
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Z Huang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Y Zhang
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Z Li
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - J Ying
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - M Wei
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 518116, Shenzhen, China.
| | - W Li
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China.
| | - C An
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Komatsuda H, Kono M, Wakisaka R, Sato R, Inoue T, Kumai T, Takahara M. Harnessing Immunity to Treat Advanced Thyroid Cancer. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:45. [PMID: 38250858 PMCID: PMC10820966 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) has increased over the past 30 years. Although differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) has a good prognosis in most patients undergoing total thyroidectomy followed by radioiodine therapy (RAI), 5-10% of patients develop metastasis. Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) has a low survival rate and few effective treatments have been available to date. Recently, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been successfully applied to RAI-resistant or non-responsive TC to suppress the disease. However, TC eventually develops resistance to TKIs. Immunotherapy is a promising treatment for TC, the majority of which is considered an immune-hot malignancy. Immune suppression by TC cells and immune-suppressing cells, including tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells, is complex and dynamic. Negative immune checkpoints, cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) suppress antitumor T cells. Basic and translational advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), molecule-targeted therapy, tumor-specific immunotherapy, and their combinations have enabled us to overcome immune suppression and activate antitumor immune cells. This review summarizes current findings regarding the immune microenvironment, immunosuppression, immunological targets, and immunotherapy for TC and highlights the potential efficacy of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Komatsuda
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Michihisa Kono
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Risa Wakisaka
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Ryosuke Sato
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Takahiro Inoue
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Takumi Kumai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Innovative Head & Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan
| | - Miki Takahara
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Innovative Head & Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Laganà M, Cremaschi V, Alberti A, Vodopivec Kuri DM, Cosentini D, Berruti A. The Evolving Treatment Landscape of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2023; 24:1815-1832. [PMID: 37979019 PMCID: PMC10781862 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-023-01145-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Genetic assessment is crucial to address the correct treatment for advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Multi tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) cabozantinib and vandetanib are good first line options, even vandetanib prescription is currently limited to RET mutated patients. Selective RET inhibitors such as pralsetinib could be a preferred upfront treatment in case of RET mutated MTC presenting common or gatekeeper RET mutations (e.g. M918T; V804L/M). Selpercatinib, otherwise, can be prescribed as the second line after disease progression to mTKIs. The best option for subsequent lines is to consider inclusion in clinical trials or alternatively other mTKIs such as sunitinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib, or pazopanib could be evaluated. New perspectives include next-generation RET inhibitors able to overcome resistance mechanisms responsible for disease progression to standard mTKIs and RET inhibitors, and immunotherapy for MTC presenting with high tumor mutational burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Laganà
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Cremaschi
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Alberti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Danica M Vodopivec Kuri
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University Of Alabama, 619 19Th St S, Birmingham, AL, 35249, USA
| | - Deborah Cosentini
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berruti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia at ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Weng D, He L, Chen X, Lin H, Ji D, Lu S, Ao L, Wang S. Integrated analysis of transcription factor-mRNA-miRNA regulatory network related to immune characteristics in medullary thyroid carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1055412. [PMID: 36713370 PMCID: PMC9877459 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1055412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a thyroid C cell-derived malignancy, is poorly differentiated and more aggressive than papillary, follicular and oncocytic types of thyroid cancer. The current therapeutic options are limited, with a third of population suffering resistance. The differential gene expression pattern among thyroid cancer subtypes remains unclear. This study intended to explore the exclusive gene profile of MTC and construct a comprehensive regulatory network via integrated analysis, to uncover the potential key biomarkers. Methods Multiple datasets of thyroid and other neuroendocrine tumors were obtained from GEO and TCGA databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) specific in MTC were identified to construct a transcription factor (TF)-mRNA-miRNA network. The impact of the TF-mRNA-miRNA network on tumor immune characteristics and patient survival was further explored by single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) and ESTIMATE algorithms, as well as univariate combined with multivariate analyses. RT-qPCR, cell viability and apoptosis assays were performed for in vitro validation. Results We identified 81 genes upregulated and 22 downregulated in MTC but not in other types of thyroid tumor compared to the normal thyroid tissue. According to the L1000CDS2 database, potential targeting drugs were found to reverse the expressions of DEGs, with panobinostat (S1030) validated effective for tumor repression in MTC by in vitro experiments. The 103 DEGs exclusively seen in MTC were involved in signal release, muscle contraction, pathways of neurodegeneration diseases, neurotransmitter activity and related amino acid metabolism, and cAMP pathway. Based on the identified 15 hub genes, a TF-mRNA-miRNA linear network, as well as REST-cored coherent feed-forward loop networks, namely REST-KIF5C-miR-223 and REST-CDK5R2-miR-130a were constructed via online prediction and validation by public datasets and our cohort. Hub-gene, TF and miRNA scores in the TF-mRNA-miRNA network were related to immune score, immune cell infiltration and immunotherapeutic molecules in MTC as well as in neuroendocrine tumor of lung and neuroblastoma. Additionally, a high hub-gene score or a low miRNA score indicated good prognoses of neuroendocrine tumors. Conclusion The present study uncovers underlying molecular mechanisms and potential immunotherapy-related targets for the pathogenesis and drug discovery of MTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Weng
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Long He
- Department of Pain, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiangna Chen
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huangfeng Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Daihan Ji
- Department of Bioinformatics, Fujian Key Laboratory of Medical Bioinformatics, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shuting Lu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Fujian Key Laboratory of Medical Bioinformatics, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lu Ao
- Department of Bioinformatics, Fujian Key Laboratory of Medical Bioinformatics, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China,*Correspondence: Shenglin Wang, ; Lu Ao,
| | - Shenglin Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China,Department of Bioinformatics, Fujian Key Laboratory of Medical Bioinformatics, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China,*Correspondence: Shenglin Wang, ; Lu Ao,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bai Y, Guo T, Niu D, Zhu Y, Ren W, Yao Q, Huang X, Feng Q, Wang T, Ma X, Ji X. Clinical significance and interrelations of PD-L1 expression, Ki-67 index, and molecular alterations in sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma from a Chinese population. Virchows Arch 2022; 481:903-911. [PMID: 35920918 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03390-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy shows prospects in treating advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma although controversial reports are present. Recently, histological grading has been applied to medullary thyroid carcinoma by the Ki-67 index, mitotic figures, and tumor necrosis. However, the interrelation of PD-L1 expression, the Ki-67 index, and major genetic alterations of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma has not been fully reported. We examined the expression of PD-L1 (SP142 and 22C3) and the Ki-67 index immunohistologically and detected the major genetic alterations by next-generation sequencing in a cohort of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinomas, studied their survival impact, and discussed their interrelation. We identified that a high Ki-67 index (> 2%) and positive RET M918T mutation were correlated with poor disease-free survival but were not correlated with PD-L1 expression. All PD-L1 positive tumors were RET M918T mutation negative, and PD-L1 expression was positively correlated with HRAS mutation. The Ki-67 index was correlated with neither PD-L1 expression nor major genetic alterations. Our results indicate that immunotherapy targeting PD-L1/PD-1 might be more effective for patients with sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma harboring HRAS mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Bai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China.
| | - Ting Guo
- Division of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Dongfeng Niu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yanli Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhao Ren
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaozheng Huang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Feng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Tianxiao Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuli Ma
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xinqiang Ji
- Department of Medical Statistics, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Angelousi A, Hayes AR, Chatzellis E, Kaltsas GA, Grossman AB. Metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma: a new way forward. Endocr Relat Cancer 2022; 29:R85-R103. [PMID: 35521769 PMCID: PMC9175549 DOI: 10.1530/erc-21-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy comprising 1-2% of all thyroid cancers in the United States. Approximately 20% of cases are familial, secondary to a germline RET mutation, while the remaining 80% are sporadic and also harbour a somatic RET mutation in more than half of all cases. Up to 15-20% of patients will present with distant metastatic disease, and retrospective series report a 10-year survival of 10-40% from time of first metastasis. Historically, systemic therapies for metastatic MTC have been limited, and cytotoxic chemotherapy has demonstrated poor objective response rates. However, in the last decade, targeted therapies, particularly multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have demonstrated prolonged progression-free survival in advanced and progressive MTC. Both cabozantinib and vandetanib have been approved as first-line treatment options in many countries; nevertheless, their use is limited by high toxicity rates and dose reductions are often necessary. New generation TKIs, such as selpercatinib or pralsetinib, that exhibit selective activity against RET, have recently been approved as a second-line treatment option, and they exhibit a more favourable side-effect profile. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors may also constitute potential therapeutic options in specific clinical settings. In this review, we aim to present all current therapeutic options available for patients with progressive MTC, as well as new or as yet experimental treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Angelousi
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
| | - Aimee R Hayes
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Eleftherios Chatzellis
- Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism Department, 251 Hellenic Air Force and VA General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Gregory A Kaltsas
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Laiko Hospital, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Angelousi or A B Grossman: or
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Minna E, Romeo P, Dugo M, De Cecco L, Aiello A, Pistore F, Carenzo A, Greco A, Borrello MG. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Mutational Spectrum Update and Signaling-Type Inference by Transcriptional Profiles: Literature Meta-Analysis and Study of Tumor Samples. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081951. [PMID: 35454858 PMCID: PMC9028774 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare but clinically relevant tumor based on its aggressiveness and the limited therapeutic opportunities currently available for advanced cases. A better understanding of the mechanisms of MTC development is crucial to identify more effective means of intervention and therapies. Several studies have shown that RET and RAS genes play a central role in MTC. However, little is known about the signaling processes operating downstream of these genes. Here, we report mutation and gene expression profiles in proprietary sporadic MTCs, including both primary and metastatic tumors. We show that tumors derived from the same patient display similar expression profiles and that the latter can be used to obtain information about specific downstream signaling, identifying distinct molecular subtypes. Furthermore, by reviewing the relevant literature, we highlight that, along with RET and RAS, other less frequent genes are emerging as possible new players in MTC. Abstract Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare but aggressive tumor. Although RET and RAS genes are recognized drivers in MTC, associated downstream signaling pathways are largely unknown. In this study, we report 17 sporadic MTCs, collected at our institution, comprising patient-matched primary and lymph node metastatic tumors investigated for mutational and transcriptional profiles. As we identified two uncommon RET deletions (D898_E901del and E632_L633del), we also performed a literature review and meta-analysis to assess the occurrence of unconventional alterations in MTC, focusing on next-generation sequencing studies. We found that new gene alterations are emerging, along with the known RET/RAS drivers, involving not only RET by multiple concurrent mutations or deletions but also other previously underestimated cancer-related genes, especially in sporadic MTCs. In our MTC gene profiles, we found transcriptome similarity between patient-matched tissues and expression of immune genes only by a few samples. Furthermore, we defined a gene signature able to stratify samples into two distinct signaling types, termed MEN2B-like and MEN2A-like. We provide an updated overview of the MTC mutational spectrum and describe how transcriptional profiles can be used to define distinct MTC signaling subtypes that appear to be shared by various gene drivers, including the unconventional ones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Minna
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (M.G.B.)
| | - Paola Romeo
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Matteo Dugo
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Loris De Cecco
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonella Aiello
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Federico Pistore
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Andrea Carenzo
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Angela Greco
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Grazia Borrello
- Molecular Mechanisms Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.R.); (L.D.C.); (F.P.); (A.C.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (M.G.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Matrone A, Gambale C, Prete A, Elisei R. Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: Towards a Precision Medicine. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:864253. [PMID: 35422765 PMCID: PMC9004483 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.864253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a neuroendocrine malignant tumor originating from parafollicular C-cells producing calcitonin. Most of cases (75%) are sporadic while the remaining (25%) are hereditary. In these latter cases medullary thyroid carcinoma can be associated (multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIA and IIB) or not (familial medullary thyroid carcinoma), with other endocrine diseases such as pheochromocytoma and/or hyperparathyroidism. RET gene point mutation is the main molecular alteration involved in MTC tumorigenesis, both in sporadic and in hereditary cases. Total thyroidectomy with prophylactic/therapeutic central compartment lymph nodes dissection is the initial treatment of choice. Further treatments are needed according to tumor burden and rate of progression. Surgical treatments and local therapies are advocated in the case of single or few local or distant metastasis and slow rate of progression. Conversely, systemic treatments should be initiated in cases with large metastatic and rapidly progressive disease. In this review, we discuss the details of systemic treatments in advanced and metastatic sporadic MTC, focusing on multikinase inhibitors, both those already used in clinical practice and under investigation, and on emerging treatments such as highly selective RET inhibitors and radionuclide therapy.
Collapse
|
10
|
Garcia-Alvarez A, Hernando J, Carmona-Alonso A, Capdevila J. What is the status of immunotherapy in thyroid neoplasms? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:929091. [PMID: 35992118 PMCID: PMC9389039 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.929091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has changed the treatment of patients with advanced cancer, with different phase III trials showing durable responses across different histologies. This review focuses on the preclinical and clinical evidence of potential predictive biomarkers of response and efficacy of immunotherapy in thyroid neoplasms. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) staining by immunohistochemistry has shown higher expression in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) compared to other subtypes. The tumor mutational burden in thyroid neoplasms is low but seems to be higher in ATC. Immune infiltrates in the tumor microenvironment (TME) differ between the different thyroid neoplasm subtypes. In general, differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) has a higher number of tumor-associated lymphocytes and regulatory T cells (Tregs), while ATC and medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) display a high density of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Nevertheless, results from clinical trials with immunotherapy as monotherapy or combinations have shown limited efficacy. Further investigation into new strategies aside from anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4)/programmed death 1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 antibodies, validation of predictive biomarkers, and better population selection for clinical trials in thyroid neoplasms is more than needed in the near future.
Collapse
|
11
|
Hegde A, Andreev-Drakhlin AY, Roszik J, Huang L, Liu S, Hess K, Cabanillas M, Hu MI, Busaidy NL, Sherman SI, Dadu R, Grubbs EG, Ali SM, Lee J, Elamin YY, Simon GR, Blumenschein GR, Papadimitrakopoulou VA, Hong D, Meric-Bernstam F, Heymach J, Subbiah V. Responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors versus other systemic therapies in RET-aberrant malignancies. ESMO Open 2021; 5:e000799. [PMID: 33097651 PMCID: PMC7590373 DOI: 10.1136/esmoopen-2020-000799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The receptor tyrosine kinase rearranged during transfection (RET) can be oncogenically activated by gene fusions or point mutations. Multikinase inhibitors such as cabozantinib, lenvatinib and vandetanib have demonstrated activity in RET-dependent malignancies, and selective RET inhibitors (Selpercatinib and Pralsetinib) are in clinical trials. However, the responsiveness of RET-dependent malignancies to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is unknown. We compared the time to treatment discontinuation (TTD) for ICI versus non-ICI therapy in patients with malignancies harbouring activating RET mutations or fusions (RET+). METHODS A retrospective review of all RET+ patients who were referred to the phase I clinical trials programme at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center was conducted. TTD was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazard model was performed to identify independent risk factors of treatment discontinuation. RESULTS Of 70 patients who received systemic therapy for RET+ malignancies, 20 (28.6%) received ICI and 50 (71.4%) received non-ICI therapy. Non-ICI therapy was associated with decreased risk for treatment discontinuation compared with ICI in the overall population (HR=0.31; 95% CI 0.16-0.62; p=0.000834) and in patients with RET point mutations (HR=0.13; 95% CI 0.04-0.45; p=0.00134). In patients with RET fusions, non-ICI therapy was associated with a non-statistically significant decreased risk of treatment discontinuation (HR=0.59; 95% CI 0.25-1.4; p=0.24). ICI therapy and a diagnosis other than medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) were independent risk factors for treatment discontinuation. CONCLUSION Our study supports the prioritisation of non-ICI over ICI therapy in patients with RET+ tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Hegde
- Department of Hematology Oncology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Jason Roszik
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Le Huang
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kenneth Hess
- Department of Biostatistics, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maria Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mimi I Hu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Naifa L Busaidy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Steven I Sherman
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ramona Dadu
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Siraj M Ali
- Department of Clinical Development, Foundation Medicine Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jessica Lee
- Department of Clinical Development, Foundation Medicine Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yasir Y Elamin
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - George R Simon
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - David Hong
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - John Heymach
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Vivek Subbiah
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, UTMDACC, Houston, Texas, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fonseca L, Freitas C, Caramelo A, Eloy C. Expression of PD-L1 in medullary thyroid carcinoma-a new therapeutic target? ENDOCRINOLOGY DIABETES & METABOLISM 2021; 4:e00241. [PMID: 34277966 PMCID: PMC8279617 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Fonseca
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Cláudia Freitas
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Ana Caramelo
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology University of Porto - IPATIMUP Porto Portugal
| | - Catarina Eloy
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology University of Porto - IPATIMUP Porto Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine University of Porto Porto Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Di Molfetta S, Dotto A, Fanciulli G, Florio T, Feola T, Colao A, Faggiano A. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: New Weapons Against Medullary Thyroid Cancer? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:667784. [PMID: 33935977 PMCID: PMC8081349 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.667784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm that originates from thyroid C cells. Surgery, with complete resection of the tumor, is the only curative approach. However, in most cases, the tumor recurs at locoregional or metastatic level. In this setting, the management remains challenging. In recent years, the immune checkpoint inhibitors have provided promise for changing the cancer treatment paradigm through the application of new approaches that enhance the body's natural antitumor defenses. The aim of this review is to summarize and discuss available data on efficacy and safety of the Food and Drug Administration-approved immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma. After an extensive search, we found 7 useful data sources (one single-case report, one short article with very preliminary data, five ongoing registered clinical trials). Despite the lack of published evidence regarding the use of immune check point inhibitors, it must be considered that all the ongoing registered clinical trials saw first light in the last three years, thus indicating a growing interest of researchers in this field. Results coming from these trials, and hopefully, in the next future, from additional trials, will help to clarify whether this class of drugs may represent a new weapon in favor of patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Di Molfetta
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sergio Di Molfetta,
| | - Andrea Dotto
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fanciulli
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari—Endocrine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Tullio Florio
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Tiziana Feola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Neuromed Institute, IRCCS, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Endocrinology Unit, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Faggiano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
D'Andréa G, Lassalle S, Guevara N, Mograbi B, Hofman P. From biomarkers to therapeutic targets: the promise of PD-L1 in thyroid autoimmunity and cancer. Theranostics 2021; 11:1310-1325. [PMID: 33391536 PMCID: PMC7738901 DOI: 10.7150/thno.50333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) immune checkpoint proteins hold promise as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets for precision oncology. By restoring antitumor T cell surveillance, the high degree of effectiveness of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, the majority of patients (65-80 %) treated with ICIs experience significant side effects, called immune-related adverse events (irAEs), resulting in autoimmune damage to various organs. Therefore, broadening the clinical applicability of these treatments to all cancer types requires an improved understanding of the mechanisms linking cancer immune evasion and autoimmunity. The thyroid is the endocrine gland the most frequently involved in autoimmunity and cancer, the growing incidence of which is raising serious public health issues worldwide. In addition, the risk of developing thyroid cancer is increased in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease and thyroid dysfunction is one of the most common irAEs, especially with PD‑1/PD-L1 blockade. Therefore, we chose the thyroid as a model for the study of the link between autoimmunity, irAEs, and cancer. We provide an update into the current knowledge of the PD‑1/PD-L1 axis and discuss the growing interest of this axis in the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of thyroid diseases within the context of autoimmunity and cancer, while embracing personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire D'Andréa
- ENT and Head and Neck surgery department, Institut Universitaire de la Face et du Cou, CHU de Nice, University Hospital, Côte d'Azur University, Nice, France
- Côte d'Azur University, CNRS, INSERM, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Sandra Lassalle
- Côte d'Azur University, CNRS, INSERM, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Côte d'Azur University and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, University Côte d'Azur, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Nicolas Guevara
- ENT and Head and Neck surgery department, Institut Universitaire de la Face et du Cou, CHU de Nice, University Hospital, Côte d'Azur University, Nice, France
| | - Baharia Mograbi
- Côte d'Azur University, CNRS, INSERM, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
- Antoine Lacassagne Cancer Center, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- Côte d'Azur University, CNRS, INSERM, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
- Antoine Lacassagne Cancer Center, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Côte d'Azur University and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, University Côte d'Azur, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shi X, Li CW, Tan LC, Wen SS, Liao T, Zhang Y, Chen TZ, Ma B, Yu PC, Lu ZW, Qu N, Wang Y, Shi RL, Wang YL, Ji QH, Wei WJ. Immune Co-inhibitory Receptors PD-1, CTLA-4, TIM-3, LAG-3, and TIGIT in Medullary Thyroid Cancers: A Large Cohort Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:120-132. [PMID: 33000173 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3), lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3), and T-cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) are considered major immune co-inhibitory receptors (CIRs) and the most promising immunotherapeutic targets in cancer treatment, but they are largely unexplored in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). OBJECTIVE We aimed to provide the first evidence regarding the expression profiles and clinical significance of CIRs in a large cohort of MTC patients. DESIGN AND PATIENTS In total, 200 MTC patients who received initial surgery in our hospital were included. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate CIR expressions in tissue microarrays (TMAs). Combined with the results of our previous programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) study, clinicopathologic and prognostic correlations of these proteins were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS TIM-3, PD-1, CTLA-4, LAG-3, and TIGIT positivity was detected in 96 (48.0%), 27 (13.5%), 25 (12.5%), 6 (3.0%), and 6 (3.0%) patients, respectively, in whom TIM-3, PD-1, and CTLA-4 expressions were positively correlated. Log-rank tests and multivariate Cox analyses both indicated that TIM-3, CTLA-4 expression, and PD-1/PD-L1 coexpression were associated with worse structural recurrence-free survival. In addition, among 20 patients who developed advanced disease during follow-up, 12 (60%) showed TIM-3 positivity, among whom 6 cases also had concurrent moderate to strong PD-1, PD-L1, or CTLA-4 expression. CONCLUSIONS Using the currently largest TMA cohort of this rare cancer, we delineated the CIR expression profiles in MTC, and identified TIM-3, CTLA-4 expression, and PD-1/PD-L1 coexpression as promising biomarkers for tumor recurrence. Furthermore, a subset of advanced MTCs are probably immunogenic, for which single or combined immunotherapy including TIM-3, PD-1, PD-L1, or CTLA-4 blockade may be potential therapeutic approaches in the future.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antigens, CD/analysis
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/analysis
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- CTLA-4 Antigen/analysis
- CTLA-4 Antigen/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine/diagnosis
- Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine/mortality
- Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine/pathology
- Child
- China/epidemiology
- Cohort Studies
- Disease Progression
- Female
- Hepatitis A Virus Cellular Receptor 2/analysis
- Hepatitis A Virus Cellular Receptor 2/metabolism
- Humans
- Immune Checkpoint Proteins/analysis
- Immune Checkpoint Proteins/metabolism
- Immunohistochemistry
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/analysis
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/metabolism
- Receptors, Immunologic/analysis
- Receptors, Immunologic/metabolism
- Retrospective Studies
- Survival Analysis
- Thyroid Neoplasms/diagnosis
- Thyroid Neoplasms/metabolism
- Thyroid Neoplasms/mortality
- Thyroid Neoplasms/pathology
- Tissue Array Analysis
- Young Adult
- Lymphocyte Activation Gene 3 Protein
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui-Wei Li
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Cheng Tan
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Shuai Wen
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian Liao
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong-Zhen Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Ben Ma
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng-Cheng Yu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong-Wu Lu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Qu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong-Liang Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Hai Ji
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jun Wei
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fanciulli G, Di Molfetta S, Dotto A, Florio T, Feola T, Colao A, Faggiano A. Commentary: Case Report: Abdominal Lymph Node Metastases of Parathyroid Carcinoma: Diagnostic Workup, Molecular Diagnosis, and Clinical Management. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:700806. [PMID: 34220723 PMCID: PMC8253222 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.700806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Fanciulli
- NET Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari—Endocrinology Unit, Sassari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giuseppe Fanciulli,
| | - Sergio Di Molfetta
- Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Dotto
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Tullio Florio
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Tiziana Feola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Neuromed Institute, IRCCS, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Faggiano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
French JD. Immunotherapy for advanced thyroid cancers - rationale, current advances and future strategies. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2020; 16:629-641. [PMID: 32839578 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-0398-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, the field of cancer immunotherapy has been revolutionized by immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) technologies. Success across a broad spectrum of cancers has led to a paradigm shift in therapy for patients with advanced cancer. Early data are now accumulating in progressive thyroid cancers treated with single-agent ICB therapies and combination approaches that incorporate ICB technologies. This Review discusses our current knowledge of the immune response in thyroid cancers, the latest and ongoing immune-based approaches, and the future of immunotherapies in thyroid cancer. Physiologically relevant preclinical mouse models and human correlative research studies will inform development of the next stage of immune-based therapies for patients with advanced thyroid cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jena D French
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA.
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bai Y, Niu D, Yao Q, Lin D, Kakudo K. Updates in the advances of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma: from the molecules to the clinic. Gland Surg 2020; 9:1847-1856. [PMID: 33224860 DOI: 10.21037/gs-2019-catp-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine malignancy that originates in parafollicular cells. It is well-known that a quarter of MTC are involved in hereditary multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndromes, whereas most MTC are sporadic. Unlike the commonly encountered gastrointestinal or pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors, most sporadic MTCs have distinct genetic alterations featured by somatic changes of either Rearranged during Transfection (RET) or RAS point mutation. The increasing application of next-generation sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, and other molecular detection techniques enables us to understand MTC comprehensively concerning its detailed molecular changes and their clinical correlations. This article reviews the advances in genetic alterations and their prognostic impact in sporadic MTC among different populations and discusses the associated tumor immune microenvironments and the potential role of immunotherapy targeting PD-L1/PD-1 in treating MTC. Furthermore, the current multikinase inhibitor targeting therapy for sporadic MTC has been summarized here and its efficacy and drug toxicity are discussed. Updates in advance of the role of calcitonin/procalcitonin/calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha (CALCA) gene transcripts in diagnosing and handling MTC are also mentioned. The treatment of advanced MTC is still challenging and might require a combination of several modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Bai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Dongfeng Niu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Dongmei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Kennichi Kakudo
- Department of Pathology and Thyroid Disease Center, Izumi City General Hospital, Izumi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pozdeyev N, Erickson TA, Zhang L, Ellison K, Rivard CJ, Sams S, Hirsch FR, Haugen BR, French JD. Comprehensive Immune Profiling of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Thyroid 2020; 30:1263-1279. [PMID: 32242507 PMCID: PMC7869888 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Despite advances in targeted kinase inhibitor development for patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), most patients develop resistance and would benefit from alternative approaches. Immune-based therapies are now considered for patients with progressive MTC. This study is the first comprehensive assessment of the immune milieu, immune-suppressive molecules, and potential tumor antigens in patients with MTC. Methods: Primary and/or regionally metastatic tumor tissues from 46 patients with MTC were screened for immune infiltrates by using standard immunohistochemistry (IHC) and further analyzed by multispectral imaging for T cell and myeloid markers. RNASeq expression profiling was performed in parallel. RNASeq, targeted sequencing, and IHC techniques identified cancer-associated mutations and MTC-enriched proteins. Results: Organized immune infiltration was observed in 49% and 90% of primary and metastatic tumors, respectively. CD8+ cells were the dominant T cell subtype in most samples, while CD163+ macrophages were most frequent among myeloid infiltrates. PD-1+ T cells were evident in 24% of patients. Myeloid subsets were largely major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII-), suggesting a dysfunctional phenotype. Expression profiling confirmed enrichment in T cell, macrophage, and inflammatory profiles in a subset of samples. PD-L1 was expressed at low levels in a small subset of patients, while the immune regulatory molecules CD155 and CD47 were broadly expressed. Calcitonin, GRP, HIST1H4E, NOMO3, and NPIPA2 were highly and specifically expressed in MTC. Mutations in tumor suppressors, PTEN and p53, and mismatch repair genes, MSH2 and MSH6, may be relevant to disease progression and antigenicity. Conclusions: This study suggests that MTC is a more immunologically active tumor that has been previously reported. Patients with advanced MTC should be screened for targetable antigens and immune checkpoints to determine their eligibility for current clinical trials. Additional studies are necessary to fully characterize the antigenic potential of MTC and may encourage the development of adoptive T cells therapies for this rare tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Pozdeyev
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Timothy A. Erickson
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Cancer Institute, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Lian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kim Ellison
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Christopher J. Rivard
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sharon Sams
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Fred R. Hirsch
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Bryan R. Haugen
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jena D. French
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Address correspondence to: Jena D. French, PhD, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Avenue, RC1 South, 7401D, Campus Box 8106, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
San Román Gil M, Pozas J, Molina-Cerrillo J, Gómez J, Pian H, Pozas M, Carrato A, Grande E, Alonso-Gordoa T. Current and Future Role of Tyrosine Kinases Inhibition in Thyroid Cancer: From Biology to Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4951. [PMID: 32668761 PMCID: PMC7403957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer represents a heterogenous disease whose incidence has increased in the last decades. Although three main different subtypes have been described, molecular characterization is progressively being included in the diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm of these patients. In fact, thyroid cancer is a landmark in the oncological approach to solid tumors as it harbors key genetic alterations driving tumor progression that have been demonstrated to be potential actionable targets. Within this promising and rapid changing scenario, current efforts are directed to improve tumor characterization for an accurate guidance in the therapeutic management. In this sense, it is strongly recommended to perform tissue genotyping to patients that are going to be considered for systemic therapy in order to select the adequate treatment, according to recent clinical trials data. Overall, the aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review on the molecular biology of thyroid cancer focusing on the key role of tyrosine kinases. Additionally, from a clinical point of view, we provide a thorough perspective, current and future, in the treatment landscape of this tumor.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/enzymology
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma, Follicular/therapy
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/enzymology
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/genetics
- Adenoma, Oxyphilic/therapy
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Carcinoma, Medullary/enzymology
- Carcinoma, Medullary/genetics
- Carcinoma, Medullary/therapy
- Carcinoma, Papillary/enzymology
- Carcinoma, Papillary/genetics
- Carcinoma, Papillary/therapy
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Combined Modality Therapy
- Disease Management
- Forecasting
- Genes, Neoplasm
- Humans
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Immunoconjugates/therapeutic use
- Immunotherapy
- Iodine Radioisotopes/therapeutic use
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Multicenter Studies as Topic
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/genetics
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Thyroid Neoplasms/enzymology
- Thyroid Neoplasms/genetics
- Thyroid Neoplasms/therapy
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María San Román Gil
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Javier Pozas
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Javier Molina-Cerrillo
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
| | - Joaquín Gómez
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
- General Surgery Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Héctor Pian
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Pozas
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
| | - Alfredo Carrato
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
| | - Enrique Grande
- Medical Oncology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 28033 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Teresa Alonso-Gordoa
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (M.S.R.G.); (J.P.); (M.P.); (A.C.); (T.A.-G.)
- The Ramon y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), CIBERONC, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Medicine School, Alcalá University, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (J.G.); (H.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Yin H, Tang Y, Guo Y, Wen S. Immune Microenvironment of Thyroid Cancer. J Cancer 2020; 11:4884-4896. [PMID: 32626535 PMCID: PMC7330689 DOI: 10.7150/jca.44506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is a highly heterogeneous endocrine malignancy with an increased incidence in women than in men. Previous studies regarding the pathogenesis of TC focused on the pathological changes of the tumor cells while ignoring the importance of the mesenchymal cells in tumor microenvironment. However, more recently, the stable environment provided by the interaction of thyroid cancer cells with the peri-tumoral stroma has been widely studied. Studies have shown that components of an individual's immune system are closely related to the occurrence, invasion, and metastasis of TC, which may affect response to treatment and prognosis of the patients. This article presents a comprehensive review of the immune cells, secreted soluble mediators and immune checkpoints in the immune microenvironment, mechanisms that promoting TC cells immune evasion and existing immunotherapy strategies. Besides it provides new strategies for TC prognosis prediction and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Yin
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yemei Tang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Yujia Guo
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China
| | - Shuxin Wen
- Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, P.R. China.,General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518061, Guangdong, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Cabanillas ME, Ryder M, Jimenez C. Targeted Therapy for Advanced Thyroid Cancer: Kinase Inhibitors and Beyond. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:1573-1604. [PMID: 31322645 PMCID: PMC7341904 DOI: 10.1210/er.2019-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of advanced thyroid cancer has undergone rapid evolution in the last decade, with multiple kinase inhibitor drug approvals for each subtype of thyroid cancer and a number of other commercially available drugs that have been studied for this indication. Although most of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs are antiangiogenic multikinase inhibitors-vandetanib, cabozantinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib-there are two FDA indications that are mutation specific-dabrafenib/trametinib for BRAF-mutated anaplastic thyroid cancer and larotrectinib for NTRK-fusion thyroid cancer. Furthermore, other mutation-specific drugs, immunotherapies, and novel strategies for advanced thyroid cancer are under investigation. Understanding the molecular basis of thyroid cancer, the drugs of interest for treatment of advanced thyroid cancer, and how these drugs can be administered safely and in the appropriate clinical scenario are the topics of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mabel Ryder
- Department of Endocrinology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Camilo Jimenez
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Galdiero MR, Ruffilli I, Elia G, Ragusa F, Paparo SR, Patrizio A, Mazzi V, Varricchi G, Marone G, Antonelli A. Immune and Inflammatory Cells in Thyroid Cancer Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4413. [PMID: 31500315 PMCID: PMC6769504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of cancer is the ability of tumor cells to avoid immune destruction. Activated immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME) secrete proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines which foster the proliferation of tumor cells. Specific antigens expressed by cancer cells are recognized by the main actors of immune response that are involved in their elimination (immunosurveillance). By the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, decreasing the tumor immunogenicity, or through other immunosuppressive mechanisms, tumors can impair the host immune cells within the TME and escape their surveillance. Within the TME, cells of the innate (e.g., macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils) and the adaptive (e.g., lymphocytes) immune responses are interconnected with epithelial cancer cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells via cytokines, chemokines, and adipocytokines. The molecular pattern of cytokines and chemokines has a key role and could explain the involvement of the immune system in tumor initiation and progression. Thyroid cancer-related inflammation is an important target for diagnostic procedures and novel therapeutic strategies. Anticancer immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors, unleashes the immune system and activates cytotoxic lymphocytes to kill cancer cells. A better knowledge of the molecular and immunological characteristics of TME will allow novel and more effective immunotherapeutic strategies in advanced thyroid cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Martina Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Maria Rosaria Galdiero
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences and Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.G.); (G.V.); (G.M.)
- WAO Center of Excellence, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Ruffilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Sabrina Rosaria Paparo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Armando Patrizio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Valeria Mazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences and Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.G.); (G.V.); (G.M.)
- WAO Center of Excellence, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni Marone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences and Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.G.); (G.V.); (G.M.)
- WAO Center of Excellence, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.F.); (I.R.); (G.E.); (F.R.); (S.R.P.); (A.P.); (V.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Shi X, Yu PC, Lei BW, Li CW, Zhang Y, Tan LC, Shi RL, Wang J, Ma B, Xu WB, Wang X, Hu JQ, Huang NS, Wei WJ, Wang Y, Chen TZ, Wang YL, Ji QH. Association Between Programmed Death-Ligand 1 Expression and Clinicopathological Characteristics, Structural Recurrence, and Biochemical Recurrence/Persistent Disease in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Thyroid 2019; 29:1269-1278. [PMID: 31328653 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Expression of the programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) has been rarely reported. In this study, we evaluated PD-L1 positivity in MTC and analyzed its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics, structural recurrence (SR), and biochemical recurrence/persistent disease (BcR/BcPD). We also evaluated the prevalence of PD-L1 expression in patients developing distant or unresectable locoregional recurrence. Methods: In total, 201 consecutive MTC patients who underwent initial surgery in our institution from January 2006 to December 2015 were included. PD-L1 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining and was considered positive in case of a combined positive score ≥1. The association of PD-L1 positivity with clinicopathological characteristics, structural recurrence-free survival (SRFS), and BcR/BcPD was retrospectively investigated. Results: The median follow-up length of the entire cohort was 73 months. We observed positive PD-L1 staining in 29 (14.4%) patients who were more likely to have a larger tumor size (p = 0.002), lymph node metastases (p = 0.036), and advanced TNM staging (p = 0.019). The five-year SRFS of the PD-L1-negative and PD-L1-positive groups was 85.4% and 57.9% (p = 0.001). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that PD-L1 positivity was independently associated with SR (hazard ratio = 2.19 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-4.77], p = 0.047). Furthermore, multivariate logistic analysis showed that PD-L1 positivity was significantly associated with BcR/BcPD (odds ratio = 3.16 [CI 1.16-8.66], p = 0.025). During the study period, 20 patients developed distant or unresectable locoregional recurrence, among whom 8 (40%) were PD-L1 positive, which was much higher than in the entire MTC population. Conclusions: Using a large cohort of MTC patients, we demonstrate that PD-L1 positivity is associated with aggressive clinicopathological features and is independently predictive of SR and BcR/BcPD. Furthermore, a higher rate of PD-L1 expression in patients with incurable recurrence has been observed. Therefore, immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 pathway may be a potential therapeutic strategy to treat advanced MTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng-Cheng Yu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo-Wen Lei
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Cui-Wei Li
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Cheng Tan
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong-Liang Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ben Ma
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Bo Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Qian Hu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Nai-Si Huang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jun Wei
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong-Zhen Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Hai Ji
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pan B, Wang A, Pang J, Zhang Y, Cui M, Sun J, Liang Z. Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in parathyroid tumors. Endocr Connect 2019; 8:887-897. [PMID: 31252398 PMCID: PMC6599073 DOI: 10.1530/ec-19-0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PD-L1 is associated with prognosis and immunotherapeutic response in patients with malignancies. In previous studies, PD-L1 expression was detected in many endocrine tumors. However, the PD-L1 expression status in parathyroid tumors is unknown. METHODS We included 26 parathyroid carcinoma and 37 adenoma samples, as well as the corresponding patient information. PD-L1 was stained using the FDA-approved PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx and Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) assays, and staining was assessed by the estimated percentages of positive tumor cells and immune cells, respectively. RESULTS We classified the PD-L1 expression in the parathyroid tumors into four groups: (0) <1%, (1) 1-4%, (2) 5-9% and (3) ≥10% positive. With the SP263 clone, 37 (carcinoma:adenoma = 18:19) samples scored 0, 13 (carcinoma:adenoma = 4:9) scored 1, 7 (carcinoma:adenoma = 1:6) scored 2 and 6 (carcinoma:adenoma = 3:3) scored 3. However, in the series of cases using the 22C3 clone, 45 (carcinoma:adenoma = 20:25) samples scored 0, 10 (carcinoma: adenoma = 3:7) scored 1, 5 (carcinoma:adenoma = 1:4) scored 2, and 3 (carcinoma:adenoma = 2:1) scored 3. Concerning tumor-infiltrating immune cells, 57 samples were negative and six were positive with SP263, and 59 were negative and four were positive with 22C3. Moreover, PD-L1 expression was negatively correlated with the Ki-67 index and mitotic rate in parathyroid tumors depending on the different clones. However, the results indicated only moderate consistency between the SP263 and 22C3 clones in parathyroid tumors. CONCLUSION We found deficient PD-L1 expression in the majority of parathyroid tumors. However, the PD-L1 expression score in parathyroid tumors depended greatly on the antibody clone used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boju Pan
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Anqi Wang
- Clinical Biobank, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Junyi Pang
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Cui
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to J Sun or Z Liang: or
| | - Zhiyong Liang
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to J Sun or Z Liang: or
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bi Y, Ren X, Bai X, Meng Y, Luo Y, Cao J, Zhang Y, Liang Z. PD-1/PD-L1 expressions in medullary thyroid carcinoma: Clinicopathologic and prognostic analysis of Chinese population. Eur J Surg Oncol 2018; 45:353-358. [PMID: 30528043 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2018.10.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few studies have focused on PD-L1 expression in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Expressions of PD-1 and PD-L1 and their clinicopathologic and prognostic relevance were therefore further investigated on a relatively large population of MTC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Surgical specimens were obtained from 87 MTC patients during a median follow-up of 37.7 months. PD-1 and PD-L1 expressions on tumor and associated immune cells were studied immunohistochemically using >1% positive cells as a threshold for positivity. Their correlations with clinicopathologic and prognostic feature were analyzed. RESULTS PD-1 and PD-L1 were positively stained in 22 and 19 MTC patients. Most PD-L1-positive cases (18/19) showed weak to moderate staining intensity. PD-1 and PD-L1 were co-expressed in 11 patients. PD-L1 positivity was significantly correlated with distant metastases at surgery (21.1% vs 1.5%, P = 0.007). Coexpression of PD-1 and PD-L1 in MTC was correlated with advanced pathologic TNM stage III/IV (P = 0.040) and distant metastases at surgery (P = 0.013). However, there was no other clinicopathologic and prognostic relevance regarding to PD-1, PD-L1 or their coexpression in our MTC patients. CONCLUSION PD-1/PD-L1 pathway was expressed in MTC patients and was significantly correlated with the distant metastases at surgery, which may shed light on PD-1/PD-L1 as a promising therapeutic target in MTC. Future better understanding of PD-1/PD-L1 expression and their relationship with immunotherapy response may provide direct evidence for management of refractory MTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Bi
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xinyu Ren
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiaohui Bai
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yunxiao Meng
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yufeng Luo
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jinling Cao
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zhiyong Liang
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Aghajani M, Graham S, McCafferty C, Shaheed CA, Roberts T, DeSouza P, Yang T, Niles N. Clinicopathologic and Prognostic Significance of Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 Expression in Patients with Non-Medullary Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Thyroid 2018; 28:349-361. [PMID: 29455638 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2017.0441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence has shown that programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) overexpression is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to immune therapies in several human cancers. However, data on the prognostic significance of PD-L1 expression in thyroid cancer are limited and remain controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate comprehensively the clinicopathologic significance and prognostic value of PD-L1 expression in non-medullary thyroid cancers. METHODS Electronic databases, including Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, were searched up until July 5, 2017. In total, seven comparisons (from six articles) comprising 1421 patients were included in the pooled analysis. RESULTS There was moderate quality evidence from four studies (n = 721) that shows positive PD-L1 expression was significantly associated with poor survival among thyroid cancer patients (pooled hazard ratio = 3.73 [confidence interval (CI) 2.75-5.06]). Increased PD-L1 expression was also found to be significantly associated with disease recurrence (odds ratio = 1.95 [CI 1.15-3.32]) and concurrent thyroiditis (odds ratio = 1.65 [CI 1.09-2.51]). CONCLUSIONS The results confirm the prognostic significance of PD-L1 expression in thyroid cancer patients. PD-L1 expression has the potential to be implemented as a prognostic biomarker used to guide clinicians in identifying patients with more aggressive cancers, and for the selection of individuals that would derive durable clinical benefit from anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy. Prospective clinical trials will be useful to support these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marra Aghajani
- 1 Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research , Liverpool, Australia
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
| | - Susannah Graham
- 1 Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research , Liverpool, Australia
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
- 3 Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Liverpool Hospital , Liverpool, Australia
| | - Charles McCafferty
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
| | | | - Tara Roberts
- 1 Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research , Liverpool, Australia
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
- 5 South West Sydney Clinical School , UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul DeSouza
- 1 Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research , Liverpool, Australia
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
- 5 South West Sydney Clinical School , UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tao Yang
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
- 6 Saint Vincent's Clinical School , UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- 7 SydPath, Saint Vincent's Hospital , Sydney, Australia
| | - Navin Niles
- 1 Department of Medical Oncology, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research , Liverpool, Australia
- 2 School of Medicine, Western Sydney University , Campbelltown, Australia
- 3 Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Liverpool Hospital , Liverpool, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Castellone MD, Melillo RM. RET-mediated modulation of tumor microenvironment and immune response in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2). Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:T105-T119. [PMID: 28931560 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTC) arise from thyroid parafollicular, calcitonin-producing C-cells and can occur either as sporadic or as hereditary diseases in the context of familial syndromes, including multiple endocrine neoplasia 2A (MEN2A), multiple endocrine neoplasia 2B (MEN2B) and familial MTC (FMTC). In a large fraction of sporadic cases, and virtually in all inherited cases of MTC, activating point mutations of the RET proto-oncogene are found. RET encodes for a receptor tyrosine kinase protein endowed with transforming potential on thyroid parafollicular cells. As in other cancer types, microenvironmental factors play a critical role in MTC. Tumor-associated extracellular matrix, stromal cells and immune cells interact and influence the behavior of cancer cells both in a tumor-promoting and in a tumor-suppressing manner. Several studies have shown that, besides the neoplastic transformation of thyroid C-cells, a profound modification of tumor microenvironment has been associated to the RET FMTC/MEN2-associated oncoproteins. They influence the surrounding stroma, activating cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), promoting cancer-associated inflammation and suppressing anti-cancer immune response. These mechanisms might be exploited to develop innovative anti-cancer therapies and novel prognostic tools in the context of familial, RET-associated MTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosa Marina Melillo
- Istituto di Endocrinologia ed Oncologia Sperimentale del CNR 'G. Salvatore'Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie MedicheUniversity of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a relatively uncommon yet prognostically significant thyroid cancer. Several recent advances in the biology and current or potential treatment of MTC are notable. These include a new understanding of the developmental biology of the thyroid C cell, which heretofore was thought to develop from the neural crest. RET, encoded by the most common driver gene in MTC, has been shown to be a dual function kinase, thus expanding its potential substrate repertoire. Promising new therapeutic developments are occurring; many have recently progressed to clinical development. There are new insights into RET inhibitor therapy for MTC. New strategies are being developed to inhibit the RAS proteins, which are potential therapeutic targets in MTC. Potential emerging immunotherapies for MTC are discussed. However, gaps in our knowledge of the basic biology of the C cell, its transformation to MTC, and the mechanisms of resistance to therapy impede progress; further research in these areas would have a substantial impact on the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barry Nelkin
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Antonelli A, Ferrari SM, Fallahi P. Current and future immunotherapies for thyroid cancer. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2017; 18:149-159. [PMID: 29241377 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2018.1417845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer immunotherapies were approved in recent years, including immune checkpoint inhibitors. Experience with ipilimumab (CTLA-4 antagonist), nivolumab and pembrolizumab (PD-1 antagonists), and atezolizumab (PD-L1 antagonist) has shown that the impact on overall survival in cancer patients is paramount. Immune checkpoint inhibitors target the immune system and they can be applied across multiple cancers; the response rate is ranging from 20 to 40%. Many studies have shown that thyroid cancer (TC) cells produce cytokines and chemokines, inducing several tumor-promoting effects. Targeting and/or lowering cytokines and chemokines concentrations within the tumor microenvironment would produce a therapeutic benefit. In TC, increased Treg and PD-1+ T cell frequencies are indicative of aggressive disease and PD-L1 expression correlates with a greater risk of recurrence. Area covered: After performing a literature search, a few pioneering studies have evaluated immunotherapy in thyroid cancer. More recently a case has been described involving anaplastic thyroid cancer treated with vemurafenib and nivolumab, with substantial regression and complete radiographic and clinical remission. Expert commentary: The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in aggressive TC has not yet been extensively investigated and further studies in a large number of TC patients are urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Antonelli
- a Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | | | - Poupak Fallahi
- a Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| |
Collapse
|