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Lin S, Dai Y, Han C, Han T, Zhao L, Wu R, Liu J, Zhang B, Huang N, Liu Y, Lai S, Shi J, Wang Y, Lou M, Xie J, Cheng Y, Tang H, Yao H, Fang H, Zhang Y, Wu X, Shen L, Ye Y, Xue L, Wu ZB. Single-cell transcriptomics reveal distinct immune-infiltrating phenotypes and macrophage-tumor interaction axes among different lineages of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors. Genome Med 2024; 16:60. [PMID: 38658971 PMCID: PMC11040908 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-024-01325-4] [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: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are common gland neoplasms demonstrating distinctive transcription factors. Although the role of immune cells in PitNETs has been widely recognized, the precise immunological environment and its control over tumor cells are poorly understood. METHODS The heterogeneity, spatial distribution, and clinical significance of macrophages in PitNETs were analyzed using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), bulk RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, immunohistochemistry, and multiplexed quantitative immunofluorescence (QIF). Cell viability, cell apoptosis assays, and in vivo subcutaneous xenograft experiments have confirmed that INHBA-ACVR1B influences the process of tumor cell apoptosis. RESULTS The present study evaluated scRNA-seq data from 23 PitNET samples categorized into 3 primary lineages. The objective was to explore the diversity of tumors and the composition of immune cells across these lineages. Analyzed data from scRNA-seq and 365 bulk RNA sequencing samples conducted in-house revealed the presence of three unique subtypes of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in PitNETs. These subtypes were characterized by varying levels of immune infiltration, ranging from low to intermediate to high. In addition, the NR5A1 lineage is primarily associated with the subtype characterized by limited infiltration of immune cells. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) expressing CX3CR1+, C1Q+, and GPNMB+ showed enhanced contact with tumor cells expressing NR5A1 + , TBX19+, and POU1F1+, respectively. This emphasizes the distinct interaction axes between TAMs and tumor cells based on their lineage. Moreover, the connection between CX3CR1+ macrophages and tumor cells via INHBA-ACVR1B regulates tumor cell apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the different subtypes of TIME and the interaction between TAM and tumor cells offer valuable insights into the control of TIME that affects the development of PitNET. These findings can be utilized as prospective targets for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojian Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuting Dai
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Rujin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Changxi Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyi Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linfeng Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Renyan Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianyue Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yanting Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujing Lai
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jintong Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meiqing Lou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Xie
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijun Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Fang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Rujin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Med-X Research Institute and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuefeng Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Youqiong Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Li Xue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhe Bao Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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2
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Forst DA, Jones PS. Skull Base Tumors. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2023; 29:1752-1778. [PMID: 38085897 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article reviews the presenting features, molecular characteristics, diagnosis, and management of selected skull base tumors, including meningiomas, vestibular schwannomas, pituitary neuroendocrine tumors, craniopharyngiomas, chordomas, ecchordosis physaliphora, chondrosarcomas, esthesioneuroblastomas, and paragangliomas. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Skull base tumors pose a management challenge given their complex location and, as a result, the tumors and treatment can result in significant morbidity. In most cases, surgery, radiation therapy, or both yield high rates of disease control, but the use of these therapies may be limited by the surgical accessibility of these tumors and their proximity to critical structures. The World Health Organization classification of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors was updated in 2022. Scientific advances have led to an enhanced understanding of the genetic drivers of many types of skull base tumors and have revealed several potentially targetable genetic alterations. This information is being leveraged in the design of ongoing clinical trials, with the hope of rendering these challenging tumors treatable through less invasive and morbid measures. ESSENTIAL POINTS Tumors involving the skull base are heterogeneous and may arise from bony structures, cranial nerves, the meninges, the sinonasal tract, the pituitary gland, or embryonic tissues. Treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, with participation from radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, neuro-oncologists, and surgical specialists, including neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, and head and neck surgeons. Treatment has largely centered around surgical resection, when feasible, and the use of first-line or salvage radiation therapy, with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or both considered in selected settings. Our growing understanding of the molecular drivers of these diseases may facilitate future expansion of pharmacologic options to treat skull base tumors.
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3
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Papadimitriou E, Chatzellis E, Dimitriadi A, Kaltsas GA, Theocharis S, Alexandraki KI. Prognostic Biomarkers in Pituitary Tumours: A Systematic Review. TOUCHREVIEWS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY 2023; 19:42-53. [PMID: 38187082 PMCID: PMC10769480 DOI: 10.17925/ee.2023.19.2.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Pituitary tumours (PTs) are the second most common intracranial tumour. Although the majority show benign behaviour, they may exert aggressive behaviour and can be resistant to treatment. The aim of this review is to report the recently identified biomarkers that might have possible prognostic value. Studies evaluating potentially prognostic biomarkers or a therapeutic target in invasive/recurrent PTs compared with either non-invasive or non-recurrent PTs or normal pituitaries are included in this review. In the 28 included studies, more than 911 PTs were evaluated. A systematic search identified the expression of a number of biomarkers that may be positively correlated with disease recurrence or invasion in PT, grouped according to role: (1) insensitivity to anti-growth signals: minichromosome maintenance protein 7; (2) evasion of the immune system: cyclooxygenase 2, arginase 1, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 2, cluster of differentiation (CD) 80/CD86; (3) sustained angiogenesis: endothelial cell-specific molecule, fibroblast growth factor receptor, matrix metalloproteinase 9, pituitary tumour transforming gene; (4) self-sufficiency in growth signals: epidermal growth factor receptor; and (5) tissue invasion: matrix metalloproteinase 9, fascin protein. Biomarkers with a negative correlation with disease recurrence or invasion include: (1) insensitivity to anti-growth signals: transforming growth factor β1, Smad proteins; (2) sustained angiogenesis: tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1; (3) tissue invasion: Wnt inhibitory factor 1; and (4) miscellaneous: co-expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and cytokeratin, and oestrogen receptors α36 and α66. PD-1/programmed cell death ligand 1 showed no clear association with invasion or recurrence, while cyclin A, cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4, S100 protein, ephrin receptor, galectin-3 , neural cell adhesion molecule, protein tyrosine phosphatase 4A3 and steroidogenic factor 1 had no association with invasion or recurrence of PT. With the aim to develop a more personalized approach to the treatment of PT, and because of the limited number of molecular targets currently studied in the context of recurrent PT and invasion, a better understanding of the most relevant of these biomarkers by well-d esigned interventional studies will lead to a better understanding of the molecular profile of PT. This should also meet the increased need of treatable molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Papadimitriou
- First Department of Propaedeutic Medicine, Laiko Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftherios Chatzellis
- Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism Department, 251 Hellenic Air Force and VA General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Gregory A Kaltsas
- First Department of Propaedeutic Medicine, Laiko Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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4
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Serioli S, Agostini L, Pietrantoni A, Valeri F, Costanza F, Chiloiro S, Buffoli B, Piazza A, Poliani PL, Peris-Celda M, Iavarone F, Gaudino S, Gessi M, Schinzari G, Mattogno PP, Giampietro A, De Marinis L, Pontecorvi A, Fontanella MM, Lauretti L, Rindi G, Olivi A, Bianchi A, Doglietto F. Aggressive PitNETs and Potential Target Therapies: A Systematic Review of Molecular and Genetic Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15719. [PMID: 37958702 PMCID: PMC10650665 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115719] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have allowed a more thorough understanding of tumorigenesis in aggressive PitNETs (pituitary neuroendocrine tumors) through the identification of specific essential genes, crucial molecular pathways, regulators, and effects of the tumoral microenvironment. Target therapies have been developed to cure oncology patients refractory to traditional treatments, introducing the concept of precision medicine. Preliminary data on PitNETs are derived from preclinical studies conducted on cell cultures, animal models, and a few case reports or small case series. This study comprehensively reviews the principal pathways involved in aggressive PitNETs, describing the potential target therapies. A search was conducted on Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science for English papers published between 1 January 2004, and 15 June 2023. 254 were selected, and the topics related to aggressive PitNETs were recorded and discussed in detail: epigenetic aspects, membrane proteins and receptors, metalloprotease, molecular pathways, PPRK, and the immune microenvironment. A comprehensive comprehension of the molecular mechanisms linked to PitNETs' aggressiveness and invasiveness is crucial. Despite promising preliminary findings, additional research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm the indications and effectiveness of target therapies for PitNETs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Serioli
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Ludovico Agostini
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | | | - Federico Valeri
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Flavia Costanza
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sabrina Chiloiro
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Barbara Buffoli
- Section of Anatomy and Physiopathology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Amedeo Piazza
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurosurgery Division, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Pietro Luigi Poliani
- Pathology Unit, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Maria Peris-Celda
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Federica Iavarone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario IRCCS “A. Gemelli”, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Gaudino
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Institute of Radiology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Gessi
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Neuropathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Schinzari
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Mattogno
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonella Giampietro
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Laura De Marinis
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marco Maria Fontanella
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Liverana Lauretti
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Guido Rindi
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Neuropathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Olivi
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Bianchi
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Pituitary Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Francesco Doglietto
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy; (L.A.); (F.V.); (F.C.); (S.G.); (M.G.); (G.S.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (L.L.); (G.R.); (A.O.); (A.B.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
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5
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Robertson IJ, Gregory TA, Waguespack SG, Penas-Prado M, Majd NK. Recent Therapeutic Advances in Pituitary Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOTHERAPY AND PRECISION ONCOLOGY 2023; 6:74-83. [PMID: 37214211 PMCID: PMC10195013 DOI: 10.36401/jipo-22-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary carcinoma (PC) is a rare, aggressive malignancy that comprises 0.1-0.2% of all pituitary tumors. PC is defined anatomically as a pituitary tumor that metastasizes outside the primary intrasellar location as noncontiguous lesions in the central nervous system or as metastases to other organs. Similar to pituitary adenoma, PC originates from various cell types of the pituitary gland and can be functioning or nonfunctioning, with the former constituting the majority of the cases. Compression of intricate skull-based structures, excessive hormonal secretion, impaired pituitary function from therapy, and systemic metastases lead to debilitating symptoms and a poor survival outcome in most cases. PC frequently recurs despite multimodality treatments, including surgical resection, radiotherapy, and biochemical and cytotoxic treatments. There is an unmet need to better understand the pathogenesis and molecular characterization of PC to improve therapeutic strategies. As our understanding of the role of signaling pathways in the tumorigenesis of and malignant transformation of PC evolves, efforts have focused on targeted therapy. In addition, recent advances in the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors to treat various solid cancers have led to an interest in exploring the role of immunotherapy for the treatment of aggressive refractory pituitary tumors. Here, we review our current understanding of the pathogenesis, molecular characterization, and treatment of PC. Particular attention is given to emerging treatment options, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian J. Robertson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Timothy A. Gregory
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Steven G. Waguespack
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Marta Penas-Prado
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nazanin K. Majd
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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6
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Marques P, Korbonits M. Tumour microenvironment and pituitary tumour behaviour. J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:1047-1063. [PMID: 37060402 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02089-1] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
The pituitary tumour microenvironment encompasses a spectrum of non-tumoural cells, such as immune, stromal or endothelial cells, as well as enzymes and signalling peptides like cytokines, chemokines and growth factors, which surround the tumour cells and may influence pituitary tumour behaviour and tumourigenic mechanisms. Recently, there has been intensive research activity in this field describing various pituitary tumour-infiltrating immune and stromal cell subpopulations, and immune- and microenvironment-related pathways. Key changes in oncological therapeutic avenues resulted in the recognition of pituitary as a target of adverse events for patients treated with immune checkpoint regulators. However, these phenomena can be turned into therapeutic advantage in severe cases of pituitary tumours. Therefore, unravelling the pituitary tumour microenvironment will allow a better understanding of the biology and behaviour of pituitary tumours and may provide further developments in terms of diagnosis and management of patients with aggressively growing or recurrent pituitary tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Marques
- Pituitary Tumor Unit, Endocrinology Department, Hospital CUF Descobertas, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - M Korbonits
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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7
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Ilie MD, Vasiljevic A, Bertolino P, Raverot G. Biological and Therapeutic Implications of the Tumor Microenvironment in Pituitary Adenomas. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:297-311. [PMID: 36269838 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are neoplasms derived from the endocrine cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Most frequently, they are benign tumors, but may sometimes display an aggressive course, and in some cases metastasize. Their biology, including their wide range of behavior, is only partly understood. In terms of therapeutic targeting, most PAs are easily treated with available medical treatments, surgery, and sometimes radiotherapy. Nevertheless, gonadotroph adenomas lack medical therapeutic options, and treatment of aggressive PAs and pituitary carcinomas remains challenging. Here, we present an overview of the implications of the tumor microenvironment in PAs, reviewing its composition and function, as well as published cases that have been treated thus far using tumor microenvironment-targeting therapies. Additionally, we discuss emerging views, such as the concept of nonangiogenic tumors, and present perspectives regarding treatments that may represent future potential therapeutic options. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, folliculostellate cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, angiogenesis, as well as the extracellular matrix and its remodeling, all have complex roles in the biology of PAs. They have been linked to hormone production/secretion, size, invasion, proliferation, progression/recurrence, and treatment response in PAs. From a therapeutic perspective, immune-checkpoint inhibitors and bevacizumab have already shown a degree of efficacy in aggressive PAs and pituitary carcinomas, and the use of numerous other tumor microenvironment-targeting therapies can be foreseen. In conclusion, similar to other cancers, understanding the tumor microenvironment improves our understanding of PA biology beyond genetics and epigenetics, and constitutes an important tool for developing future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela-Diana Ilie
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69373 Lyon, France
- Lyon 1 University, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
- Endocrinology Department, "C.I. Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, 011684 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandre Vasiljevic
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69373 Lyon, France
- Lyon 1 University, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
- Pathology Department, Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases HYPO, "Groupement Hospitalier Est" Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
| | - Philippe Bertolino
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69373 Lyon, France
| | - Gérald Raverot
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69373 Lyon, France
- Lyon 1 University, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
- Endocrinology Department, Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases HYPO, "Groupement Hospitalier Est" Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
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Zheng AC, Wang EJ, Aghi MK. Recent advancements in the molecular biology of pituitary adenomas. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:293-304. [PMID: 35702013 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2082942] [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: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pituitary adenomas are a common and diverse group of intracranial tumors arising from the anterior pituitary that are usually slow-growing and benign, but still pose a significant healthcare burden to patients. Additionally, they are increasing in both incidence and prevalence, leading to a need for better understanding of molecular changes in the development of these tumors. AREAS COVERED A PubMed literature search was conducted using the terms 'pituitary adenoma' in combination with keywords related to secretory subtype: lactotroph, somatotroph, corticotroph, gonadotroph and null cell, in addition to their transcription factor expression: PIT1, TPIT, and SF-1. Articles resulting from this search were analyzed, as well as relevant articles cited as their references. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the genetic and epigenetic characterization of individual pituitary adenoma subtypes and the effect it may have on guiding future clinical treatment of these tumors. EXPERT OPINION Understanding the molecular biology of pituitary adenomas is a fundamental step toward advancing the treatment of these tumors. Yet crucial knowledge gaps exist in our understanding of the underlying molecular biology of pituitary adenomas which can potentially be addressed by turning to differentially activated molecular pathways in tumor relative to normal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison C Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery; University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elaina J Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery; Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University Providence, RI, USA
| | - Manish K Aghi
- Department of Neurosurgery; University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) San Francisco, CA, USA
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Marques P, Silva AL, López-Presa D, Faria C, Bugalho MJ. The microenvironment of pituitary adenomas: biological, clinical and therapeutical implications. Pituitary 2022; 25:363-382. [PMID: 35194709 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-022-01211-5] [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] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The microenvironment of pituitary adenomas (PAs) includes a range of non-tumoral cells, such as immune and stromal cells, as well as cell signaling molecules such as cytokines, chemokines and growth factors, which surround pituitary tumor cells and may modulate tumor initiation, progression, invasion, angiogenesis and other tumorigenic processes. The microenvironment of PAs has been actively investigated over the last years, with several immune and stromal cell populations, as well as different cytokines, chemokines and growth factors being recently characterized in PAs. Moreover, key microenvironment-related genes as well as immune-related molecules and pathways have been investigated, with immune check point regulators emerging as promising targets for immunotherapy. Understanding the microenvironment of PAs will contribute to a deeper knowledge of the complex biology of PAs, as well as will provide developments in terms of diagnosis, clinical management and ultimately treatment of patients with aggressive and/or refractory PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Marques
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Ana Luísa Silva
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dolores López-Presa
- Pathology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Faria
- Neurosurgery Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria João Bugalho
- Endocrinology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon University, Lisbon, Portugal
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Zhou J, Hu Y, Zhu W, Nie C, Zhao W, Faje AT, Labelle KE, Swearingen B, Lee H, Hedley-Whyte ET, Zhang X, Jones PS, Miller KK, Klibanski A, Zhou Y, Soberman RJ. Sprouting Angiogenesis in Human Pituitary Adenomas. Front Oncol 2022; 12:875219. [PMID: 35600354 PMCID: PMC9117625 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.875219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Angiogenesis in pituitary tumors is not fully understood, and a better understanding could help inform new pharmacologic therapies, particularly for aggressive pituitary tumors. Materials and Methods 219 human pituitary tumors and 12 normal pituitary glands were studied. Angiogenic genes were quantified by an angiogenesis qPCR array and a TaqMan probe-based absolute qPCR. Angiogenesis inhibition in pituitary tumors was evaluated in vitro with the endothelial tube formation assay and in vivo in RbΔ19 mice. Results 71 angiogenic genes, 40 of which are known to be involved in sprouting angiogenesis, were differentially expressed in pituitary tumors. Expression of endothelial markers CD31, CD34, and ENG was significantly higher in pituitary tumors, by 5.6, 22.3, and 8.2-fold, respectively, compared to in normal pituitary tissue. There was no significant difference in levels of the lymphatic endothelial marker LYVE1 in pituitary tumors compared with normal pituitary gland tissue. Pituitary tumors also expressed significantly higher levels of angiogenesis growth factors, including VEGFA (4.2-fold), VEGFB (2.2), VEGFC (19.3), PGF (13.4), ANGPT2 (9.2), PDGFA (2.7), PDGFB (10.5) and TGFB1 (3.8) compared to normal pituitary tissue. Expression of VEGFC and PGF was highly correlated with the expression of endothelial markers in tumor samples, including CD31, CD34, and ENG (endoglin, a co-receptor for TGFβ). Furthermore, VEGFR inhibitors inhibited angiogenesis induced by human pituitary tumors and prolonged survival of RbΔ19 mice. Conclusion Human pituitary tumors are characterized by more active angiogenesis than normal pituitary gland tissue in a manner consistent with sprouting angiogenesis. Angiogenesis in pituitary tumors is regulated mainly by PGF and VEGFC, not VEGFA and VEGFB. Angiogenesis inhibitors, such as the VEGFR2 inhibitor cabozantinib, may merit further investigation as therapies for aggressive human pituitary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhou
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yaomin Hu
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Wende Zhu
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chuansheng Nie
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Wenxiu Zhao
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alexander T. Faje
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kay E. Labelle
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Brooke Swearingen
- Neurosurgery Department, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hang Lee
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - E. Tessa Hedley-Whyte
- Department of Pathology (Neuropathology), Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xun Zhang
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Pamela S. Jones
- Neurosurgery Department, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karen K. Miller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Anne Klibanski
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yunli Zhou
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Yunli Zhou,
| | - Roy J. Soberman
- Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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