1
|
Abdelaziz ME, El-Miligy MMM, Fahmy SM, Abu-Serie MM, Hazzaa AA, Mahran MA. Imparting aromaticity to 2-pyridone derivatives by O-alkylation resulted in new competitive and non-competitive PIM-1 kinase inhibitors with caspase-activated apoptosis. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2304044. [PMID: 38230430 PMCID: PMC10795791 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2304044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
New aromatic O-alkyl pyridine derivatives were designed and synthesised as Proviral Integration Moloney (PIM)-1 kinase inhibitors. 4c and 4f showed potent in vitro anticancer activity against NFS-60, HepG-2, PC-3, and Caco-2 cell lines and low toxicity against normal human lung fibroblast Wi-38 cell line. Moreover, 4c and 4f induced apoptosis in the four tested cancer cell lines with high percentage. In addition, 4c and 4f significantly induced caspase 3/7 activation in HepG-2 cell line. Furthermore, 4c and 4f showed potent PIM-1 kinase inhibitory activity with IC50 = 0.110, 0.095 µM, respectively. Kinetic studies indicated that 4c and 4f were both competitive and non-competitive inhibitors for PIM-1 kinase enzyme. In addition, in silico prediction of physiochemical properties, pharmacokinetic profile, ligand efficiency, ligand lipophilic efficiency, and induced fit docking studies were consistent with the biological and kinetic studies, and predicted that 4c and 4f could act as PIM-1 kinase competitive non-adenosine triphosphate (ATP) mimetics with drug like properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa E. Abdelaziz
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mostafa M. M. El-Miligy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Salwa M. Fahmy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Aly A. Hazzaa
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona A. Mahran
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Julson JR, Quinn CH, Nazam N, Bownes LV, Stewart JE, Beierle EA. PIM Kinase Inhibition Sensitizes Neuroblastoma to Doxorubicin. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:1334-1341. [PMID: 38570263 PMCID: PMC11164644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.03.014] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemoresistance contributes to relapse in high-risk neuroblastoma. Cancer cells acquire resistance through multiple mechanisms, including drug efflux pumps. In neuroblastoma, multidrug resistance-associated protein-1 (MRP1/ABCC1) efflux pump expression correlates with worse outcomes. These pumps are regulated by PIM kinases, a family of serine-threonine kinases, overexpressed in neuroblastoma. We hypothesized PIM kinase inhibition would sensitize neuroblastoma cells by modulating MRP1. METHODS Kocak database query evaluated ABCC1, PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3 expression in neuroblastoma patients. SK-N-AS and SK-N-BE(2) cells were treated with doxorubicin or the pan-PIM kinase inhibitor, AZD1208. Flow cytometry assessed intracellular doxorubicin accumulation. AlamarBlue assay measured viability. The lethal dose 50% (LD50) of each drug and combination indices (CI) were calculated and isobolograms constructed to determine synergy. RESULTS Kocak database query demonstrated positive correlation between PIM genes and ABCC1. PIM kinase inhibition increased intracellular doxorubicin accumulation in both cell lines, suggesting PIM kinase regulation of MRP1. Isobolograms showed synergy between AZD1208 and doxorubicin. CONCLUSIONS The correlation between PIM and ABCC1 gene expression suggests PIM kinases may contribute to neuroblastoma chemotherapeutic resistance. PIM kinase inhibition increased intracellular doxorubicin accumulation. Combination treatment with AZD1208 and doxorubicin decreased neuroblastoma cell viability in a synergistic fashion. These findings support further investigations of PIM kinase inhibition in neuroblastoma. TYPE OF STUDY Basic Science Research. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet R Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Nazia Nazam
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee WG, Kim ES. Precision Oncology in Pediatric Cancer Surgery. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2024; 33:409-446. [PMID: 38401917 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric precision oncology has provided a greater understanding of the wide range of molecular alterations in difficult-to-treat or rare tumors with the aims of increasing survival as well as decreasing toxicity and morbidity from current cytotoxic therapies. In this article, the authors discuss the current state of pediatric precision oncology which has increased access to novel targeted therapies while also providing a framework for clinical implementation in this unique population. The authors evaluate the targetable mutations currently under investigation-with a focus on pediatric solid tumors-and discuss the key surgical implications associated with novel targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William G Lee
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 116 North Robertson Boulevard, Suite PACT 700, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA. https://twitter.com/william_ghh_lee
| | - Eugene S Kim
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 116 North Robertson Boulevard, Suite PACT 700, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Julson JR, Horton SC, Quinn CH, Beierle AM, Bownes LV, Stewart JE, Aye J, Yoon KJ, Beierle EA. CDK4/6 Inhibition With Lerociclib is a Potential Therapeutic Strategy for the Treatment of Pediatric Sarcomas. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:473-482. [PMID: 37919169 PMCID: PMC10922146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.10.004] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcomas are a heterogenous collection of bone and soft tissue tumors. The heterogeneity of these tumors makes it difficult to standardize treatment. CDK 4/6 inhibitors are a family of targeted agents which limit cell cycle progression and have been shown to be upregulated in sarcomas. In the current preclinical study, we evaluated the effects of lerociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, on pediatric sarcomas in vitro and in 3D bioprinted tumors. METHODS The effects of lerociclib on viability, proliferation, cell cycle, motility, and stemness were assessed in established sarcoma cell lines, U-2 OS and MG-63, as well as sarcoma patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). 3D printed biotumors of each of the U-2 OS, MG-63, and COA79 cells were utilized to study the effects of lerociclib on tumor growth ex vivo. RESULTS CDK 4/6, as well as the intermediaries retinoblastoma protein (Rb) and phosphorylated Rb were identified as targets in the four sarcoma cell lines. Lerociclib treatment induced cell cycle arrest, decreased proliferation, motility, and stemness of sarcoma cells. Treatment with lerociclib decreased sarcoma cell viability in both traditional 2D culture as well as 3D bioprinted microtumors. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of CDK 4/6 activity with lerociclib was efficacious in traditional 2D sarcoma cell culture as well as in 3D bioprints. Lerociclib holds promise and warrants further investigation as a novel therapeutic strategy for management of these heterogenous groups of tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet R Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Sara C Horton
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Andee M Beierle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jamie Aye
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Atalay P, Ozpolat B. PIM3 Kinase: A Promising Novel Target in Solid Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:535. [PMID: 38339286 PMCID: PMC10854964 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16030535] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
PIM3 (provirus-integrating Moloney site 3) is a serine/threonine kinase and belongs to the PIM family (PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3). PIM3 is a proto-oncogene that is frequently overexpressed in cancers originating from endoderm-derived tissues, such as the liver, pancreas, colon, stomach, prostate, and breast cancer. PIM3 plays a critical role in activating multiple oncogenic signaling pathways promoting cancer cell proliferation, survival, invasion, tumor growth, metastasis, and progression, as well as chemo- and radiation therapy resistance and immunosuppressive microenvironment. Genetic inhibition of PIM3 expression suppresses in vitro cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth and metastasis in mice with solid cancers, indicating that PIM3 is a potential therapeutic target. Although several pan-PIM inhibitors entered phase I clinical trials in hematological cancers, there are currently no FDA-approved inhibitors for the treatment of patients. This review provides an overview of recent developments and insights into the role of PIM3 in various cancers and its potential as a novel molecular target for cancer therapy. We also discuss the current status of PIM-targeted therapies in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pinar Atalay
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Methodist Neil Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Julson JR, Quinn CH, Butey S, Erwin MH, Marayati R, Nazam N, Stewart JE, Beierle EA. PIM Kinase Inhibition Attenuates the Malignant Progression of Metastatic Hepatoblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:427. [PMID: 38203596 PMCID: PMC10778668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010427] [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] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary pediatric liver tumor. Children with pulmonary metastases at diagnosis experience survival rates as low as 25%. We have shown PIM kinases play a role in hepatoblastoma tumorigenesis. In this study, we assessed the role of PIM kinases in metastatic hepatoblastoma. We employed the metastatic hepatoblastoma cell line, HLM_2. PIM kinase inhibition was attained using PIM3 siRNA and the pan-PIM inhibitor, AZD1208. Effects of PIM inhibition on proliferation were evaluated via growth curve. Flow cytometry determined changes in cell cycle. AlamarBlue assay assessed effects of PIM kinase inhibition and cisplatin treatment on viability. The lethal dose 50% (LD50) of each drug and combination indices (CI) were calculated and isobolograms constructed to determine synergy. PIM kinase inhibition resulted in decreased HLM_2 proliferation, likely through cell cycle arrest mediated by p21. Combination therapy with AZD1208 and cisplatin resulted in synergy, potentially through downregulation of the ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase DNA damage response pathway. When assessing the combined effects of pharmacologic PIM kinase inhibition with cisplatin on HLM_2 cells, we found the agents to be synergistic, potentially through inhibition of the ATM pathway. These findings support further exploration of PIM kinase inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for metastatic hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elizabeth A. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1600 7th Ave. South, Lowder Building, Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (J.R.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
El-Miligy MMM, Abdelaziz ME, Fahmy SM, Ibrahim TM, Abu-Serie MM, Mahran MA, Hazzaa AA. Discovery of new pyridine-quinoline hybrids as competitive and non-competitive PIM-1 kinase inhibitors with apoptosis induction and caspase 3/7 activation capabilities. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2152810. [PMID: 36629075 PMCID: PMC9848351 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2152810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
New quinoline-pyridine hybrids were designed and synthesised as PIM-1/2 kinase inhibitors. Compounds 5b, 5c, 6e, 13a, 13c, and 14a showed in-vitro low cytotoxicity against normal human lung fibroblast Wi-38 cell line and potent in-vitro anticancer activity against myeloid leukaemia (NFS-60), liver (HepG-2), prostate (PC-3), and colon (Caco-2) cancer cell lines. In addition, 6e, 13a, and 13c significantly induced apoptosis with percentage more than 66%. Moreover, 6e, 13a, and 13c significantly induced caspase 3/7 activation in HepG-2 cell line. Furthermore, 5c, 6e, and 14a showed potent in-vitro PIM-1 kinase inhibitory activity. While, 5b showed potent in-vitro PIM-2 kinase inhibitory activity. Kinetic studies using Lineweaver-Burk double-reciprocal plot indicated that 5b, 5c, 6e, and 14a behaved as competitive inhibitors while 13a behaved as both competitive and non-competitive inhibitor of PIM-1 kinase enzyme. Molecular docking studies indicated that, in-silico affinity came in coherence with the observed in-vitro inhibitory activities against PIM-1/2 kinases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa M. M. El-Miligy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt,CONTACT Mostafa M. M. El-Miligy
| | - Marwa E. Abdelaziz
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt,Marwa E. Abdelaziz Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1st El-khartoum Square, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Salwa M. Fahmy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Tamer M. Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria, Egypt)
| | - Mona A. Mahran
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Aly A. Hazzaa
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Julson JR, Quinn CH, Bownes LV, Hutchins SC, Stewart JE, Aye J, Yoon KJ, Beierle EA. Inhibition of PIM Kinases Promotes Neuroblastoma Cell Differentiation to a Neuronal Phenotype. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:1155-1163. [PMID: 36907773 PMCID: PMC10198809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.02.018] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroblastoma arises from aberrancies in neural stem cell differentiation. PIM kinases contribute to cancer formation, but their precise role in neuroblastoma tumorigenesis is poorly understood. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of PIM kinase inhibition on neuroblastoma differentiation. METHODS Versteeg database query assessed the correlation between PIM gene expression and the expression of neuronal stemness markers and relapse free survival. PIM kinases were inhibited with AZD1208. Viability, proliferation, motility were measured in established neuroblastoma cells lines and high-risk neuroblastoma patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). qPCR and flow cytometry detected changes in neuronal stemness marker expression after AZD1208 treatment. RESULTS Database query showed increased levels of PIM1, PIM2, or PIM3 gene expression were associated with higher risk of recurrent or progressive neuroblastoma. Increased levels of PIM1 were associated with lower relapse free survival rates. Higher levels of PIM1 correlated with lower levels of neuronal stemness markers OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2. Treatment with AZD1208 resulted in increased expression of neuronal stemness markers. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of PIM kinases differentiated neuroblastoma cancer cells toward a neuronal phenotype. Differentiation is a key component of preventing neuroblastoma relapse or recurrence and PIM kinase inhibition provides a potential new therapeutic strategy for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet R Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Sara C Hutchins
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Jamie Aye
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bownes LV, Julson JR, Quinn CH, Hutchins SC, Erwin MH, Markert HR, Stewart JE, Mroczek-Musulman E, Aye J, Yoon KJ, Ohlmeyer M, Beierle EA. The Effects of Protein Phosphatase 2A Activation with Novel Tricyclic Sulfonamides on Hepatoblastoma. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:1145-1154. [PMID: 36907775 PMCID: PMC10198925 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tumor suppressor, protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), is downregulated in hepatoblastoma. We aimed to examine the effects of two novel compounds of the tricyclic sulfonamide class, ATUX-3364 (3364) and ATUX-8385 (8385), designed to activate PP2A without causing immunosuppression, on human hepatoblastoma. METHODS An established human hepatoblastoma cell line, HuH6, and a human hepatoblastoma patient-derived xenograft, COA67, were treated with increasing doses of 3364 or 8385, and viability, proliferation, cell cycle and motility were investigated. Cancer cell stemness was evaluated by real-time PCR and tumorsphere forming ability. Effects on tumor growth were examined using a murine model. RESULTS Treatment with 3364 or 8385 significantly decreased viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression and motility in HuH6 and COA67 cells. Both compounds significantly decreased stemness as demonstrated by decreased abundance of OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2 mRNA. The ability of COA67 to form tumorspheres, another sign of cancer cell stemness, was significantly diminished by 3364 and 8385. Treatment with 3364 resulted in decreased tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION Novel PP2A activators, 3364 and 8385, decreased hepatoblastoma proliferation, viability, and cancer cell stemness in vitro. Animals treated with 3364 had decreased tumor growth. These data provide evidence for further investigation of PP2A activating compounds as hepatoblastoma therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Janet R Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Sara Claire Hutchins
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Michael H Erwin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Hooper R Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | | | - Jamie Aye
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dain L, Zhu G. Nucleic acid immunotherapeutics and vaccines: A promising approach to glioblastoma multiforme treatment. Int J Pharm 2023; 638:122924. [PMID: 37037396 PMCID: PMC10194422 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a deadly and difficult to treat primary brain tumor for which satisfactory therapeutics have yet to be discovered. While cancer immunotherapeutics, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have successfully improved the treatment of some other types of cancer, the poorly immunogenic GBM tumor cells and the immunosuppressive GBM tumor microenvironment have made it difficult to develop GBM immunotherapeutics. Nucleic acids therapeutics and vaccines, particularly those of mRNA, have become a popular field of research in recent years. This review presents the progress of nucleic acid therapeutics and vaccines for GBM and briefly covers some representative delivery methods of nucleic acids to the central nervous system (CNS) for GBM therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Dain
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmacy; The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Guizhi Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmacy; The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Quinn CH, Beierle AM, Julson JR, Erwin ME, Alrefai H, Markert HR, Stewart JE, Hutchins SC, Bownes LV, Aye JM, Mroczek-Musulman E, Hicks PH, Yoon KJ, Willey CD, Beierle1 EA. Using 3D-bioprinted models to study pediatric neural crest-derived tumors. Int J Bioprint 2023; 9:723. [PMID: 37323483 PMCID: PMC10261178 DOI: 10.18063/ijb.723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has remained at the forefront of tissue engineering and has recently been employed for generating bioprinted solid tumors to be used as cancer models to test therapeutics. In pediatrics, neural crest-derived tumors are the most common type of extracranial solid tumors. There are only a few tumor-specific therapies that directly target these tumors, and the lack of new therapies remains detrimental to improving the outcomes for these patients. The absence of more efficacious therapies for pediatric solid tumors, in general, may be due to the inability of the currently employed preclinical models to recapitulate the solid tumor phenotype. In this study, we utilized 3D bioprinting to generate neural crest-derived solid tumors. The bioprinted tumors consisted of cells from established cell lines and patient-derived xenograft tumors mixed with a 6% gelatin/1% sodium alginate bioink. The viability and morphology of the bioprints were analyzed via bioluminescence and immunohisto chemistry, respectively. We compared the bioprints to traditional twodimensional (2D) cell culture under conditions such as hypoxia and therapeutics. We successfully produced viable neural crest-derived tumors that retained the histology and immunostaining characteristics of the original parent tumors. The bioprinted tumors propagated in culture and grew in orthotopic murine models. Furthermore, compared to cells grown in traditional 2D culture, the bioprinted tumors were resistant to hypoxia and chemotherapeutics, suggesting that the bioprints exhibited a phenotype that is consistent with that seen clinically in solid tumors, thus potentially making this model superior to traditional 2D culture for preclinical investigations. Future applications of this technology entail the potential to rapidly print pediatric solid tumors for use in high-throughput drug studies, expediting the identification of novel, individualized therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Andee M Beierle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Janet R Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Michael E Erwin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Hasan Alrefai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Hooper R Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Sara Claire Hutchins
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Jamie M Aye
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | | | - Patricia H Hicks
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Christopher D Willey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Marayati R, Julson J, Bownes LV, Quinn CH, Stafman LL, Beierle AM, Markert HR, Hutchins SC, Stewart JE, Crossman DK, Hjelmeland AB, Mroczek-Musulman E, Beierle EA. PIM3 kinase promotes tumor metastasis in hepatoblastoma by upregulating cell surface expression of chemokine receptor cxcr4. Clin Exp Metastasis 2022; 39:899-912. [PMID: 36315303 PMCID: PMC9753553 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-022-10186-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Patients presenting with metastatic hepatoblastoma have limited treatment options and survival rates as low as 25%. We previously demonstrated that Proviral Integration site in Maloney murine leukemia virus 3 (PIM3) kinase promotes tumorigenesis and cancer cell stemness in hepatoblastoma. In this study, we assessed the role of PIM3 kinase in promoting hepatoblastoma metastasis. We utilized a tail vein injection model of metastasis to evaluate the effect of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated PIM3 knockout, stable overexpression of PIM3, and pharmacologic PIM inhibition on the formation of lung metastasis. In vivo studies revealed PIM3 knockout impaired the formation of lung metastasis: 5 out of 6 mice injected with wild type hepatoblastoma cells developed lung metastasis while none of the 7 mice injected with PIM3 knockout hepatoblastoma cells developed lung metastasis. PIM3 overexpression in hepatoblastoma increased the pulmonary metastatic burden in mice and mechanistically, upregulated the phosphorylation and cell surface expression of CXCR4, a key receptor in the progression of cancer cell metastasis. CXCR4 blockade with AMD3100 decreased the metastatic phenotype of PIM3 overexpressing cells, indicating that CXCR4 contributed to PIM3's promotion of hepatoblastoma metastasis. Clinically, PIM3 expression correlated positively with CXCR4 expression in primary hepatoblastoma tissues. In conclusion, we have shown PIM3 kinase promotes the metastatic phenotype of hepatoblastoma cells through upregulation of CXCR4 cell surface expression and these findings suggest that targeting PIM3 kinase may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for metastatic hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raoud Marayati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Janet Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Laura L Stafman
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Andee M Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hooper R Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sara C Hutchins
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David K Crossman
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anita B Hjelmeland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- , 1600 7th Ave South Lowder Room 300, 35233, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nucleic acid therapy in pediatric cancer. Pharmacol Res 2022; 184:106441. [PMID: 36096420 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The overall survival, progress free survival, and life quality of cancer patients have improved due to the advance in minimally invasive surgery, precision radiotherapy, and various combined chemotherapy in the last decade. Furthermore, the discovery of new types of therapeutics, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and immune cell therapies have facilitated both patients and doctors to fight with cancers. Moreover, in the context of the development in biocompatible and cell type targeting nano-carriers as well as nucleic acid-based drugs for initiating and enhancing the anti-tumor response have come to the age. The treatment paradigms utilization of nucleic acids, including short interfering RNA (siRNA), antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), and messenger RNA (mRNA), can target specific protein expression to achieve the therapeutic effects. Over ten nucleic acid therapeutics have been approved by the FDA and EMA in rare diseases and genetic diseases as well as dozens of registered clinical trails for varies cancers. Though generally less dangerous of pediatric cancers than adult cancers was observed during the past decades, yet pediatric cancers accounted for a significant proportion of child deaths which hurt those family very deeply. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention for improving the treatment of pediatric cancer and discovering new nucleic acid therapeutics which may help to improve the therapeutic effect and prognoses in turns to ameliorate the survival period and quality of life for children patient. In this review, we focus on the nucleic acid therapy in pediatric cancers.
Collapse
|
14
|
Marayati R, Julson JR, Bownes LV, Quinn CH, Hutchins SC, Williams AP, Markert HR, Beierle AM, Stewart JE, Hjelmeland AB, Mroczek-Musulman E, Beierle EA. Metastatic human hepatoblastoma cells exhibit enhanced tumorigenicity, invasiveness and a stem cell-like phenotype. J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:1018-1025. [PMID: 35300860 PMCID: PMC9119922 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Metastatic hepatoblastoma continues to pose a significant treatment challenge, primarily because the precise mechanisms involved in metastasis are not fully understood, making cell lines and preclinical models that depict the progression of disease and metastasis-related biology paramount. We aimed to generate and characterize a metastatic hepatoblastoma cell line to create a model for investigation of the molecular mechanisms associated with metastasis. MATERIALS/METHODS Using a murine model of serial tail vein injections of the human hepatoblastoma HuH6 cell line, non-invasive bioluminescence imaging, and dissociation of metastatic pulmonary lesions, we successfully established and characterized the metastatic human hepatoblastoma cell line, HLM_3. RESULTS The HLM_3 cells exhibited enhanced tumorigenicity and invasiveness, both in vitro and in vivo compared to the parent HuH6 cell line. Moreover, HLM_3 metastatic hepatoblastoma cells exhibited a stem cell-like phenotype and were more resistant to the standard chemotherapeutic cisplatin. CONCLUSION This newly described metastatic hepatoblastoma cell line offers a novel tool to study mechanisms of tumor metastasis and evaluate new therapeutic strategies for metastatic hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raoud Marayati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Janet R. Julson
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura V. Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H. Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Sara C. Hutchins
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Adele P. Williams
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Hooper R. Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Andee M. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E. Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Anita B. Hjelmeland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA,Corresponding Author: Elizabeth A. Beierle, MD, 1600 7th Ave. South, Lowder Building, Suite 300, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA, Phone: (205) 638-9688, Fax: (205) 975-4972,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Marayati R, Stafman LL, Williams AP, Bownes LV, Quinn CH, Markert HR, Easlick JL, Stewart JE, Crossman DK, Mroczek-Musulman E, Beierle EA. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of PIM3 suppresses tumorigenesis and cancer cell stemness in human hepatoblastoma cells. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:558-572. [PMID: 33864024 PMCID: PMC8521561 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00334-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatoblastoma remains one of the most difficult childhood tumors to treat and is alarmingly understudied. We previously demonstrated that Proviral Insertion site in Maloney murine leukemia virus (PIM) kinases, specifically PIM3, are overexpressed in human hepatoblastoma cells and function to promote tumorigenesis. We aimed to use CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing with dual gRNAs to introduce large inactivating deletions in the PIM3 gene and achieve stable PIM3 knockout in the human hepatoblastoma cell line, HuH6. PIM3 knockout of hepatoblastoma cells led to significantly decreased proliferation, viability, and motility, inhibited cell-cycle progression, decreased tumor growth in a xenograft murine model, and increased animal survival. Analysis of RNA sequencing data revealed that PIM3 knockout downregulated expression of pro-migratory and pro-invasive genes and upregulated expression of genes involved in apoptosis and differentiation. Furthermore, PIM3 knockout decreased hepatoblastoma cancer cell stemness as evidenced by decreased tumorsphere formation, decreased mRNA abundance of stemness markers, and decreased cell surface expression of CD133, a marker of hepatoblastoma stem cell-like cancer cells. Reintroduction of PIM3 into PIM3 knockout cells rescued the malignant phenotype. Successful CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of PIM3 kinase in human hepatoblastoma cells confirmed the role of PIM3 in promoting hepatoblastoma tumorigenesis and cancer cell stemness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raoud Marayati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura L. Stafman
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Adele P. Williams
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura V. Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H. Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Hooper R. Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Juliet L. Easlick
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E. Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - David K. Crossman
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wu PV, Rangaswami A. Current Approaches in Hepatoblastoma-New Biological Insights to Inform Therapy. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:1209-1218. [PMID: 35438389 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01230-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As the most common pediatric primary liver cancer with rising incidence, hepatoblastoma remains challenging to treat. Here, we review the current understanding of the biology of hepatoblastoma and discuss how recent advances may lead to new treatment modalities. RECENT FINDINGS Standard chemotherapy regimens including cisplatin, in addition to surgery, have led to high cure rates among patients with low stage hepatoblastoma; however, metastatic and relapsed disease continue to have poor outcomes. Recent genomics and functional studies in cell lines and mouse models have established a central role for the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in tumorigenesis. Targeted agents and immunotherapy approaches are emerging as potential treatment avenues. With recent gains in knowledge of the genomic and transcriptomic landscape of hepatoblastoma, new therapeutic mechanisms can now be explored to improve outcomes for metastatic and relapsed hepatoblastoma and to reduce the toxicity of current treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng V Wu
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1000 Welch Rd. Suite 300, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Arun Rangaswami
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Xu DQ, Yuan XJ, Hirayama M, Toyoda H. Huaier Extract Induces Apoptosis in Hepatoblastoma Cells Via the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway. In Vivo 2021; 34:2381-2388. [PMID: 32871763 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Huaier extract, whose main active constituent is the proteoglycan, has anti-tumor activity in several types of malignancies. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the effect of Huaier extract in hepatoblastoma cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of Huaier extract on the proliferation of human hepatoblastoma cell lines HepG2 and HuH-6, was examined. RESULTS Incubation with Huaier extract resulted in a marked, dose-dependent decrease in hepatoblastoma cell viability. Huaier extract induced S phase arrest in hepatoblastoma cells and upregulated the expression of the cell cycle related proteins cyclin D1 and cyclin D3. It also induced apoptosis in hepatoblastoma cells. Additionally, it significantly suppressed the activity of p-ERK and p-MEK. CONCLUSION Huaier extract inhibits proliferation, and induces cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via the MEK-ERK pathway in hepatoblastoma cells. Huaier extract may act as a complementary agent for treating hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Qing Xu
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.,Department of Pediatrics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Xiao-Jun Yuan
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Masahiro Hirayama
- Department of Pediatrics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Hidemi Toyoda
- Department of Pediatrics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
PIM kinases mediate resistance to cisplatin chemotherapy in hepatoblastoma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5984. [PMID: 33727604 PMCID: PMC7966748 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85289-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing incidence, treatment for hepatoblastoma has not changed significantly over the past 20 years. Chemotherapeutic strategies continue to rely on cisplatin, as it remains the most active single agent against hepatoblastoma. However, chemoresistance remains a significant challenge with 54–80% of patients developing resistance to chemotherapy after 4–5 cycles of treatment. Stem cell-like cancer cells (SCLCCs) are a subset of cells thought to play a role in chemoresistance and disease recurrence. We have previously demonstrated that Proviral Integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus (PIM) kinases, specifically PIM3, play a role in hepatoblastoma cell proliferation and tumor growth and maintain the SCLCC phenotype. Here, we describe the development of a cisplatin-resistant hepatoblastoma xenograft model of the human HuH6 cell line and a patient-derived xenograft, COA67. We provide evidence that these cisplatin-resistant cells are enriched for SCLCCs and express PIM3 at higher levels than cisplatin-naïve cells. We demonstrate that PIM inhibition with AZD1208 sensitizes cisplatin-resistant hepatoblastoma cells to cisplatin, enhances cisplatin-mediated apoptosis, and decreases the SCLCC phenotype seen with cisplatin resistance. Together, these findings indicate that PIM inhibition may be a promising adjunct in the treatment of hepatoblastoma to effectively target SCLCCs and potentially decrease chemoresistance and subsequent disease relapse.
Collapse
|
19
|
Wadhwani N, Markert HR, Marayati R, Bownes LV, Quinn CH, Aye JM, Stewart JE, Yoon KJ, Beierle EA. PIM447 inhibits oncogenesis and potentiates cisplatin effects in hepatoblastoma. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:1157-1164. [PMID: 33762119 PMCID: PMC8131223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel therapies are needed for patients with hepatoblastoma because of an increasing incidence of disease and poor prognosis for advanced, refractory, and recurrent disease. PIM kinases promote tumorigenesis in hepatoblastoma. A novel PIM inhibitor, PIM447, has shown promise in inhibiting oncogenesis in hematologic and lymphoid malignancies. We hypothesized that PIM inhibition with PIM447 would result in decreased tumorigenesis in hepatoblastoma. METHODS The effects of PIM447 on hepatoblastoma viability, proliferation, motility, apoptosis, and tumor cell stemness were assessed in HuH6, a human hepatoblastoma cell line, and COA67, a human hepatoblastoma patient-derived xenograft. RESULTS PIM447 significantly decreased the viability, proliferation, and motility of HuH6 and COA67 cells. Apoptosis significantly increased following PIM447 treatment. PIM447 had a significant impact on tumor cell stemness as evidenced by decreased expression of CD133 and reduced ability of HuH6 and COA67 cells to form tumorspheres. Furthermore, combining PIM447 with cisplatin resulted in a significant decrease in cell viability compared to either treatment alone. CONCLUSION We showed that PIM447 inhibits oncogenesis and potentiates the effects of cisplatin in hepatoblastoma and, therefore, warrants further investigation as a potential therapeutic agent for hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Wadhwani
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Hooper R. Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Raoud Marayati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Laura V Bownes
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Colin H. Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jamie M. Aye
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E. Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Karina J. Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.,Corresponding author: Elizabeth A. Beierle, MD, 1600 7th Ave. South, Lowder, Room 300, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA, Phone: (205) 638-9688, Fax: (205) 975-4972
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Volasertib preclinical activity in high-risk hepatoblastoma. Oncotarget 2019; 10:6403-6417. [PMID: 31741706 PMCID: PMC6849653 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Relapsed and metastatic hepatoblastoma represents an unmet clinical need with limited chemotherapy treatment options. In a chemical screen, we identified volasertib as an agent with in vitro activity, inhibiting hepatoblastoma cell growth while sparing normal hepatocytes. Volasertib targets PLK1 and prevents the progression of mitosis, resulting in eventual cell death. PLK1 is overexpressed in hepatoblastoma biopsies relative to normal liver tissue. As a potential therapeutic strategy, we tested the combination of volasertib and the relapse-related hepatoblastoma chemotherapeutic irinotecan. We found both in vitro and in vivo efficacy of this combination, which may merit further preclinical investigation and exploration for a clinical trial concept.
Collapse
|
21
|
Stafman LL, Williams AP, Marayati R, Aye JM, Markert HR, Garner EF, Quinn CH, Lallani SB, Stewart JE, Yoon KJ, Whelan K, Beierle EA. Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibition Contributes to Tumor Cell Survival and Motility in Neuroblastoma Patient-Derived Xenografts. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13259. [PMID: 31519958 PMCID: PMC6744403 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49853-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) provide an opportunity to evaluate the effects of therapies in an environment that more closely resembles the human condition than that seen with long-term passage cell lines. In the current studies, we investigated the effects of FAK inhibition on two neuroblastoma PDXs in vitro. Cells were treated with two small molecule inhibitors of FAK, PF-573,228 (PF) and 1,2,4,5-benzentetraamine tetrahydrochloride (Y15). Following FAK inhibition, cell survival and proliferation decreased significantly and cell cycle arrest was seen in both cell lines. Migration and invasion assays were used to determine the effect of FAK inhibition on cell motility, which decreased significantly in both cell lines in the presence of either inhibitor. Finally, tumor cell stemness following FAK inhibition was evaluated with extreme limiting dilution assays as well as with immunoblotting and quantitative real-time PCR for the expression of stem cell markers. FAK inhibition decreased formation of tumorspheres and resulted in a corresponding decrease in established stem cell markers. FAK inhibition decreased many characteristics of the malignant phenotype, including cancer stem cell like features in neuroblastoma PDXs, making FAK a candidate for further investigation as a potential target for neuroblastoma therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Stafman
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Adele P Williams
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Raoud Marayati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Jamie M Aye
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Hooper R Markert
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Evan F Garner
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Colin H Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Shoeb B Lallani
- Department of Cell Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Kimberly Whelan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
The presence of PIM3 increases hepatoblastoma tumorigenesis and tumor initiating cell phenotype and is associated with decreased patient survival. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:1206-1213. [PMID: 30898394 PMCID: PMC6545248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary liver cancer of childhood and has few prognostic indicators. We have previously shown that Proviral Integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus (PIM3) kinase decreased hepatoblastoma tumorigenicity. We sought to determine the effect of PIM3 overexpression on hepatoblastoma cells and whether expression of PIM3 correlated with patient/tumor characteristics or survival. METHODS The hepatoblastoma cell line, HuH6, and patient-derived xenograft, COA67, were utilized. Viability, proliferation, migration, sphere formation, and tumor growth in mice were assessed in PIM3-overexpressing cells. Immunohistochemistry was performed for PIM3 on patient samples. Correlation between stain score and clinical/pathologic characteristics was assessed. RESULTS PIM3 overexpression rescued the anti-proliferative effect observed with PIM3 knockdown. Sphere formation was increased in PIM3 overexpressing cells. Cells with PIM3 overexpression yielded larger tumors than those with empty vector. Seventy-four percent of samples expressed PIM3. There was no statistical difference in patient characteristics between subjects with strong versus weak PIM3 staining, but patients with strong PIM3 staining had decreased survival. CONCLUSIONS PIM3 expression plays a role in hepatoblastoma tumorigenesis. PIM3 was present in the majority of hepatoblastomas and higher PIM3 expression correlated with decreased survival. PIM3 warrants investigation as a therapeutic target and prognostic marker for hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
|
23
|
Stafman LL, Williams AP, Garner EF, Aye JM, Stewart JE, Yoon KJ, Whelan K, Beierle EA. Targeting PIM Kinases Affects Maintenance of CD133 Tumor Cell Population in Hepatoblastoma. Transl Oncol 2018; 12:200-208. [PMID: 30412911 PMCID: PMC6222086 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary liver tumor in children, but treatment has not changed significantly in the past 20 years. We have previously demonstrated that Proviral Integration site for Moloney murine leukemia (PIM) kinases promote tumorigenesis in hepatoblastoma. Stem cell-like cancer cells (SCLCCs) are a subset of cells thought to be responsible for chemoresistance, metastasis, relapse, and recurrence. The aim of this study was to identify SCLCCs in hepatoblastoma and determine the role of PIM kinases in SCLCCs. Hepatoblastoma cells were separated into CD133-enriched and CD133-depleted populations and the frequency of SCLCCs was assessed. CD133 expression was determined in the presence or absence of the PIM inhibitor, AZD1208. The effects of AZD1208 on proliferation, apoptosis, and motility were assessed in vitro and the effect of AZD1208 on tumor growth was examined in vivo. We identified CD133 as a marker for SCLCCs in hepatoblastoma and showed that PIM kinases promote a SCLCC phenotype. PIM kinase inhibition with AZD1208 decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion and increased apoptosis in both SCLCCs and non-SCLCCs in a long-term passaged hepatoblastoma cell line and patient-derived xenograft. Additionally, tumor growth in mice implanted with hepatoblastoma SCLCCs was decreased with PIM inhibition such that 57% of the tumors regressed. These findings identify CD133 as a marker for SCLCCs in hepatoblastoma and provide evidence that inhibition of PIM kinases decreases stemness and tumorigenicity of SCLCCs in hepatoblastoma, making them potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of hepatoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Stafman
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Adele P Williams
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Evan F Garner
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Jamie M Aye
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Jerry E Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Karina J Yoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Kimberly Whelan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Marques MB, de Oliveira PV, Fagan SB, Oliveira BR, da Silva Nornberg BF, Almeida DV, Marins LF, González-Durruthy M. Modeling drug-drug interactions of AZD1208 with Vincristine and Daunorubicin on ligand-extrusion binding TMD-domains of multidrug resistance P-glycoprotein (ABCB1). Toxicology 2018; 411:81-92. [PMID: 30339824 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, the molecular docking mechanism based on pharmacodynamic interactions between the ligands AZD1208 and recognized chemotherapy agents (Vincristine and Daunorubicin) with human ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters (ABCB1) was investigated. For the first time, were combined an in silico approaches like molecular docking and ab initio computational simulation based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) to explain the drug-drug interaction mechanism of aforementioned chemotherapy ligands with the transmembrane ligand extrusion binding domains (TMDs) of ABCB1. In this regard, the theoretical pharmacodynamic interactions were characterized by using the Gibbs free energy (FEB, kcal/mol) from the best ABCB1-ligand docking complexes. The molecular docking results pointing that for the three chemotherapy ABCB1-ligand complexes are mainly based in non-covalent hydrophobic and hydrogen-bond interactions showing a similar toxicodynamic behavior in terms of strength of interaction (FEB, kcal/mol) and very close free binding energies when compared with the FEB-values of the ABCB1 specific-inhibitor (Rhodamine B) = -6.0 kcal/mol used as theoretical docking control to compare with FEB (AZD1208-ABCB1) ∼ FEB (Vincristine-ABCB1) ∼ FEB (Daunorubicin-ABCB1) -6.2 kcal/mol as average. Ramachandran plot suggests that the 3D-crystallographic structure from ABCB1 transporter can be efficiently-modeled with conformationally-favored Psi versus Phi dihedral angles for all key TMDs-residues. Though, the results of DFT-simulation corroborate the existence of drug-drug interaction between (AZD1208/Vincristine) > (AZD1208/Daunorubicin). These theoretical pieces of evidence have preclinical relevance potential in the design of the new drugs to understand the polypharmacology influence in the molecular mechanism of multiple-drugs resistance, contributing with a higher success in chemotherapy and prognosis of cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiara Bernardes Marques
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande -FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Bruno Rodrigues Oliveira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande -FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Bruna Félix da Silva Nornberg
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande -FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniela Volcan Almeida
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande -FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Luis Fernando Marins
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande -FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|