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Yıldırım O, Seçme M, Dodurga Y, Mete GA, Fenkci SM. In Vitro Effects of Boric Acid on Cell Cycle, Apoptosis, and miRNAs in Medullary Thyroid Cancer Cells. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04188-3. [PMID: 38689139 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04188-3] [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: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a highly aggressive and chemotherapy-resistant cancer originating from the thyroid's parafollicular C cells. Due to its resistance to conventional treatments, alternative therapies such as boric acid have been explored. Boric acid, a boron-based compound, has shown anticarcinogenic effects, positioning it as a potential treatment option for MTC. TT medullary thyroid carcinoma cell line (TT cells) and human thyroid fibroblast (HThF cells) were utilized for the cell culture experiments. Cell viability was assessed using the 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) assay. Total RNA was extracted using Trizol reagent for gene expression and microRNA (miRNA) analysis via reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The extent of apoptosis induced by boric acid was determined using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Colony formation assays were conducted to evaluate the impact of boric acid on the colony-forming ability of MTC cells. At 48 h, 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of boric acid was found to be 35 μM. Treatment with boric acid resulted in significant modulation of apoptosis-related genes and miRNAs, including increased expression of phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-induced protein 1(NOXA), apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (APAF-1), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, and caspase-9. In contrast, the expression of B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), B cell lymphoma- extra-large (Bcl-xl), and microRNA-21 (miR-21), which are linked to the aggressiveness of MTC, was significantly reduced. The TUNEL assay indicated a 14% apoptosis rate, and there was a 67.9% reduction in colony formation, as shown by the colony formation assay. Our study suggests that boric acid may have anticancer activity in MTC by modulating apoptotic pathways. These findings suggest that boric acid could be a potential therapeutic agent for MTC and possibly for other malignancies with similar pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onurcan Yıldırım
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ege University School of Medicine, Izmir, 35100, Turkey.
| | - Mücahit Seçme
- Department of Medical Biology, Ordu University School of Medicine, Ordu, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Dodurga
- Department of Medical Biology, Pamukkale University School of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Gülçin Abban Mete
- Department of Histology and Embriology, Pamukkale University School of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Semin Melahat Fenkci
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Pamukkale University School of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
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Kim HR, Son M, Huh SJ, Moon SY, Moon H, Kang YW, Koh M, Lee JY. Relationship between METS-IR and thyroid cancer incidence in Korea: a nationwide population-based study. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1383864. [PMID: 38665956 PMCID: PMC11044182 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1383864] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Several previous studies found a positive relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and thyroid cancer (TC) risk. However, there is no research that has studied the relationship between the metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), a novel surrogate marker for IR, and TC incidence. Thus, we designed this retrospective cohort study to evaluate the relationship between the incidence of TC and METS-IR. Method We analyzed a cohort of 314,321 Korean adults aged over 40 years who participated in the National Health Screening Program from 2009 to 2010. The individuals were divided into four groups based on METS-IR quartiles. Follow-up was until the diagnosis of TC or death, or until December 31, 2019, if neither. The relationship between METS-IR and TC incidence was analyzed using the Cox proportional-hazards model with multi-variable adjustments. Results A total of 4,137 participants (1.3%) were diagnosed with TC during a mean follow-up of 9.5 ± 1.5 years. The population with Q1 METS-IR scores showed higher disease-free probabilities than those with Q4 METS-IR scores (p <0.001). The hazard ratio (95% confidential interval) for TC incidence in Q2, Q3, and Q4 METS-IR value were 1.14 (1.05 to 1.25), 1.21 (1.11 to 1.33), and 1.30 (1.18 to 1.42) compared with Q1 of METS-IR, respectively. The incidence of TC tended to increase with increasing METS-IR values in the total population, especially the male population in the restricted cubic spline. In subgroup analysis, the TC risk was more pronounced in the subgroups under 65 and with a BMI < 25 kg/m2. Conclusion METS-IR was positively correlated with TC incidence in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ryeon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkook Son
- Department of Physiology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Data Sciences Convergence, Dong-A University Interdisciplinary Program, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Jae Huh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yi Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeyeon Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yeongdo Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo Wool Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeongseok Koh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Yoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
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Ahmed S, Wedekind MF, Del Rivero J, Raygada M, Lockridge R, Glod JW, Flowers C, Thomas BJ, Bernstein DB, Kapustina OB, Jain A, Miettinen M, Raffeld M, Xi L, Tyagi M, Kim J, Aldape K, Malayeri AA, Kaplan RN, Allen T, Vivelo CA, Sandler AB, Widemann BC, Reilly KM. Longitudinal Natural History Study of Children and Adults with Rare Solid Tumors: Initial Results for First 200 Participants. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:2468-2482. [PMID: 37966258 PMCID: PMC10699159 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding of tumor biology and identification of effective therapies is lacking for many rare tumors. My Pediatric and Adult Rare Tumor (MyPART) network was established to engage patients, advocates, and researchers and conduct a comprehensive longitudinal Natural History Study of Rare Solid Tumors. Through remote or in-person enrollment at the NIH Clinical Center, participants with rare solid tumors ≥4 weeks old complete standardized medical and family history forms, patient reported outcomes, and provide tumor, blood and/or saliva samples. Medical records are extracted for clinical status and treatment history, and tumors undergo genomic analysis. A total of 200 participants (65% female, 35% male, median age at diagnosis 43 years, range = 2-77) enrolled from 46 U.S. states and nine other countries (46% remote, 55% in-person). Frequent diagnoses were neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN), adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC), medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTC), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH)-deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumors (sdGIST), and chordomas. At enrollment, median years since diagnosis was 3.5 (range = 0-36.6), 63% participants had metastatic disease and 20% had no evidence of disease. Pathogenic germline and tumor mutations included SDHA/B/C (sdGIST), RET (MTC), TP53 and CTNNB1 (ACC), MEN1 (NEN), and SMARCB1 (poorly-differentiated chordoma). Clinically significant anxiety was observed in 20%-35% of adults. Enrollment of participants and comprehensive data collection were feasible. Remote enrollment was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 30 patients were enrolled with ACC, NEN, and sdGIST, allowing for clinical/genomic analyses across tumors. Longitudinal follow-up and expansion of cohorts are ongoing to advance understanding of disease course and establish external controls for interventional trials. SIGNIFICANCE This study demonstrates that comprehensive, tumor-agnostic data and biospecimen collection is feasible to characterize different rare tumors, and speed progress in research. The findings will be foundational to developing external controls groups for single-arm interventional trials, where randomized control trials cannot be conducted because of small patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadin Ahmed
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Jaydira Del Rivero
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Margarita Raygada
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Robin Lockridge
- Clinical Research Directorate (CRD), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - John W. Glod
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Crystal Flowers
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - BJ Thomas
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Donna B. Bernstein
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Oxana B. Kapustina
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ashish Jain
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Research Computing, Department of Information Technology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Markku Miettinen
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mark Raffeld
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Liqiang Xi
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Manoj Tyagi
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jung Kim
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kenneth Aldape
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ashkan A. Malayeri
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Rosandra N. Kaplan
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Taryn Allen
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Clinical Research Directorate (CRD), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Christina A. Vivelo
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
- Kelly Government Solutions, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Abby B. Sandler
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Karlyne M. Reilly
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
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Alzahrani AS. Clinical use of Molecular Data in Thyroid Nodules and Cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2759-2771. [PMID: 37200449 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 3 decades, advances in the molecular genetics of thyroid cancer (TC) have been translated into diagnostic tests, prognostic markers, and therapeutic agents. The main drivers in differentiated TC pathogenesis are single-point mutations and gene fusions in components of the Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide-3-kinase-protein kinase B/Akt (PI3K/Akt) pathways. Other important genetic alterations in the more advanced types of TC include TERT promoter, TP53, EIF1AX, and epigenetic alterations. Using this knowledge, several molecular tests have been developed for cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. Currently, 3 commercially available tests are in use including a DNA/RNA-based test (ThyroSeq v.3), an RNA-based test (Afirma Gene Sequencing Classifier), and a hybrid DNA/miRNA test, ThyGeNEXT/ThyraMIR. These tests are mostly used to rule out malignancy in Bethesda III and IV thyroid nodules because they all have high sensitivities and negative predictive values. Their common use, predominantly in the United States, has resulted in a significant reduction in unnecessary thyroid surgeries for benign nodules. Some of these tests also provide information on the underlying molecular drivers of TC; this may support decision making in initial TC management planning, although this practice has not yet been widely adopted. More importantly, molecular testing is essential in patients with advanced disease before using specific mono-kinase inhibitors (eg, selpercatinib for RET-altered TC) because these drugs are ineffective in the absence of a specific molecular target. This mini-review discusses the utilization of molecular data in the clinical management of patients with thyroid nodules and TC in these different clinical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali S Alzahrani
- Department of Medicine and Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
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Pukkanasut P, Whitt J, Guenter R, Lynch SE, Gallegos C, Rosendo-Pineda MJ, Gomora JC, Chen H, Lin D, Sorace A, Jaskula-Sztul R, Velu SE. Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Na V1.7 Inhibitors with Potent Anticancer Activities in Medullary Thyroid Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2806. [PMID: 37345144 PMCID: PMC10216335 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102806] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Our results from quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and the tissue microarray of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) cell lines and patient specimens confirm that VGSC subtype NaV1.7 is uniquely expressed in aggressive MTC and not expressed in normal thyroid cells and tissues. We establish the druggability of NaV1.7 in MTC by identifying a novel inhibitor (SV188) and investigate its mode of binding and ability to inhibit INa current in NaV1.7. The whole-cell patch-clamp studies of the SV188 in the NaV1.7 channels expressed in HEK-293 cells show that SV188 inhibited the INa current in NaV1.7 with an IC50 value of 3.6 µM by a voltage- and use-dependent blockade mechanism, and the maximum inhibitory effect is observed when the channel is open. SV188 inhibited the viability of MTC cell lines, MZ-CRC-1 and TT, with IC50 values of 8.47 μM and 9.32 μM, respectively, and significantly inhibited the invasion of MZ-CRC-1 cells by 35% and 52% at 3 μM and 6 μM, respectively. In contrast, SV188 had no effect on the invasion of TT cells derived from primary tumor, which have lower basal expression of NaV1.7. In addition, SV188 at 3 μM significantly inhibited the migration of MZ-CRC-1 and TT cells by 27% and 57%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyasuda Pukkanasut
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Jason Whitt
- Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (J.W.); (R.G.); (H.C.)
| | - Rachael Guenter
- Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (J.W.); (R.G.); (H.C.)
| | - Shannon E. Lynch
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (C.G.)
| | - Carlos Gallegos
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (C.G.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Margarita Jacaranda Rosendo-Pineda
- Departamento de Neuropatología Molecular, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (M.J.R.-P.); (J.C.G.)
| | - Juan Carlos Gomora
- Departamento de Neuropatología Molecular, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (M.J.R.-P.); (J.C.G.)
| | - Herbert Chen
- Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (J.W.); (R.G.); (H.C.)
- Department of Pathology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
| | - Diana Lin
- Department of Pathology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
| | - Anna Sorace
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (C.G.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Renata Jaskula-Sztul
- Department of Surgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (J.W.); (R.G.); (H.C.)
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Sadanandan E. Velu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
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Dadgar H, Jafari E, Ahmadzadehfar H, Rekabpour SJ, Ravanbod MR, Kalantarhormozi M, Nabipour I, Assadi M. Feasibility and therapeutic potential of the 68Ga/177Lu-DOTATATE theranostic pair in patients with metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023; 84:45-51. [PMID: 36126757 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed: 1) the clinical efficacy of imaging with 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT (SSTR (somatostatin receptor)-PET) to detect medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC); and 2) the therapeutic efficacy of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with 177Lu-DOTATATE in MTC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with histologically proven MTC and suspected recurrence following thyroidectomy, based on raised serum calcitonin levels, underwent SSTR-PET. In addition, to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PRRT, the patients with intense uptake on SSTR-PET or 99mTc-octreotide scintigraphy underwent PRRT. The Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.03) was used to grade adverse events after PRRT. Treatment response was classified as complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), and progressive disease (PD). RESULTS Twenty MTC patients (10 male, 10 female) with a median age of 48.5 years underwent SSTR-PET. SSTR-PET was positive in 17/20 patients (85%). Four of the 17 patients with positive SSTR-PET were scheduled for PRRT. In addition, 2 patients had positive 99mTc-octreotide scintigraphy results (Krenning score ≥ 2) and were scheduled for PRRT. Two of the 6 patients who underwent PRRT showed PR, 2 SD and 2 PD. Two patients died during the follow-up period. Median overall survival was 19 months (95% CI: 5.52-29.48). There were no cases of significant toxicity. CONCLUSION Radiolabeled somatostatin analogs are contributive for the management of recurrent MTC. 68Ga-DOTATAE PET-CT showed a relatively high detection rate in recurrent MTC. In addition, PRRT with 177Lu-DOTATATE was found to be a safe alternative therapeutic option for MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habibollah Dadgar
- Cancer Research Center, Imam Reza International University, RAZAVI Hospital, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Esmail Jafari
- The Persian Gulf Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | | | | | - Mohammad Reza Ravanbod
- Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Kalantarhormozi
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Endocrinology), Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Iraj Nabipour
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Endocrinology), Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Majid Assadi
- The Persian Gulf Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Bushehr Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
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Verrienti A, Grani G, Sponziello M, Pecce V, Damante G, Durante C, Russo D, Filetti S. Precision oncology for RET-related tumors. Front Oncol 2022; 12:992636. [PMID: 36091144 PMCID: PMC9449844 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.992636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the RET proto-oncogene is implicated in a plethora of cancers. RET gain-of-function point mutations are driver events in multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (MEN2) syndrome and in sporadic medullary thyroid cancer, while RET rearrangements are driver events in several non-medullary thyroid cancers. Drugs able to inhibit RET have been used to treat RET-mutated cancers. Multikinase inhibitors were initially used, though they showed modest efficacy and significant toxicity. However, new RET selective inhibitors, such as selpercatinib and pralsetinib, have recently been tested and have shown good efficacy and tolerability, even if no direct comparison is yet available between multikinase and selective inhibitors. The advent of high-throughput technology has identified cancers with rare RET alterations beyond point mutations and fusions, including RET deletions, raising questions about whether these alterations have a functional effect and can be targeted by RET inhibitors. In this mini review, we focus on tumors with RET deletions, including deletions/insertions (indels), and their response to RET inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Verrienti
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Grani
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giorgio Grani,
| | - Marialuisa Sponziello
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Pecce
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Cosimo Durante
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Diego Russo
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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Fanciulli G, Modica R, La Salvia A, Campolo F, Florio T, Mikovic N, Plebani A, Di Vito V, Colao A, Faggiano A. Immunotherapy of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Any Role for the Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163991. [PMID: 36010987 PMCID: PMC9406675 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) comprise a heterogeneous group of tumors arising in different organs whose clinical course is variable according to histological differentiation and metastatic spread. Therapeutic options have recently expanded, but there is a need for new effective therapies, especially in less differentiated forms. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) have shown efficacy in several cancers, mainly hematological, but data on NENs are scattered. We aimed to analyze the available preclinical and clinical data about CAR-T in NENs, to highlight their potential role in clinical practice. A significant therapeutic effect of CAR-T cells in NENs emerges from preclinical studies. Results from clinical trials are expected in order to define their effective role in these cancers. Abstract Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors with variable clinical presentation and prognosis. Surgery, when feasible, is the most effective and often curative treatment. However, NENs are frequently locally advanced or already metastatic at diagnosis. Consequently, additional local or systemic therapeutic approaches are required. Immunotherapy, based on chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T), is showing impressive results in several cancer treatments. The aim of this narrative review is to analyze the available data about the use of CAR-T in NENs, including studies in both preclinical and clinical settings. We performed an extensive search for relevant data sources, comprising full-published articles, abstracts from international meetings, and worldwide registered clinical trials. Preclinical studies performed on both cell lines and animal models indicate a significant therapeutic effect of CAR-T cells in NENs. Ongoing and future clinical trials will clarify the possible role of these drugs in patients with highly aggressive NENs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Fanciulli
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari—Endocrine Unit, AOU Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Roberta Modica
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna La Salvia
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Campolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Tullio Florio
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Healthcare Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Nevena Mikovic
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’Andrea Hospital, ENETS Center of Excellence, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Plebani
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Vito
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair, Education for Health and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Faggiano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’Andrea Hospital, ENETS Center of Excellence, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
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Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Medullary Thyroid Cancer: What Has Changed in Recent Years? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153643. [PMID: 35892901 PMCID: PMC9332800 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a neoplasm originating from parafollicular C cells. MTC is a rare disease, but its prognosis is less favorable than that of well-differentiated thyroid cancers. To improve the prognosis of patients with MTC, early diagnosis and prompt therapeutic management are crucial. In the following paper, recent advances in laboratory and imaging diagnostics and also pharmacological and surgical therapies of MTC are discussed. Currently, a thriving direction of development for laboratory diagnostics is immunohistochemistry. The primary imaging modality in the diagnosis of MTC is the ultrasound, but opportunities for development are seen primarily in nuclear medicine techniques. Surgical management is the primary method of treating MTCs. There are numerous publications concerning the stratification of particular lymph node compartments for removal. With the introduction of more effective methods of intraoperative parathyroid identification, the complication rate of surgical treatment may be reduced. The currently used pharmacotherapy is characterized by high toxicity. Moreover, the main limitation of current pharmacotherapy is the development of drug resistance. Currently, there is ongoing research on the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), highly specific RET inhibitors, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. These new therapies may improve the prognosis of patients with MTCs.
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Saugstad AA, Petry N, Hajek C. Pharmacogenetic Review: Germline Genetic Variants Possessing Increased Cancer Risk With Clinically Actionable Therapeutic Relationships. Front Genet 2022; 13:857120. [PMID: 35685436 PMCID: PMC9170921 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.857120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As our understanding of genomics and genetic testing continues to advance, the personalization of medical decision making is progressing simultaneously. By carefully crafting medical care to fit the specific needs of the individual, patients can experience better long-term outcomes, reduced toxicities, and improved healthcare experiences. Genetic tests are frequently ordered to help diagnose a clinical presentation and even to guide surveillance. Through persistent investigation, studies have begun to delineate further therapeutic implications based upon unique relationships with genetic variants. In this review, a pre-emptive approach is taken to understand the existing evidence of relationships between specific genetic variants and available therapies. The review revealed an array of diverse relationships, ranging from well-documented clinical approaches to investigative findings with potential for future application. Therapeutic agents identified in the study ranged from highly specific targeted therapies to agents possessing similar risk factors as a genetic variant. Working in conjunction with national standardized treatment approaches, it is critical that physicians appropriately consider these relationships when developing personalized treatment plans for their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin A. Saugstad
- Kansas City University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Austin A. Saugstad,
| | - Natasha Petry
- Sanford Health Imagenetics, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Catherine Hajek
- Sanford Health Imagenetics, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
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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.
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