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Hawkins HJ, Yacob BW, Brown ME, Goldstein BR, Arcaroli JJ, Bagby SM, Hartman SJ, Macbeth M, Goodspeed A, Danhorn T, Lentz RW, Lieu CH, Leal AD, Messersmith WA, Dempsey PJ, Pitts TM. Examination of Wnt signaling as a therapeutic target for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) using a pancreatic tumor organoid library (PTOL). PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298808. [PMID: 38598488 PMCID: PMC11006186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents at advanced stages and is refractory to most treatment modalities. Wnt signaling activation plays a critical role in proliferation and chemotherapeutic resistance. Minimal media conditions, growth factor dependency, and Wnt dependency were determined via Wnt inhibition for seven patient derived organoids (PDOs) derived from pancreatic tumor organoid libraries (PTOL). Organoids demonstrating response in vitro were assessed in vivo using patient-derived xenografts. Wnt (in)dependent gene signatures were identified for each organoid. Panc269 demonstrated a trend of reduced organoid growth when treated with ETC-159 in combination with paclitaxel or gemcitabine as compared with chemotherapy or ETC-159 alone. Panc320 demonstrated a more pronounced anti-proliferative effect in the combination of ETC-159 and paclitaxel but not with gemcitabine. Panc269 and Panc320 were implanted into nude mice and treated with ETC-159, paclitaxel, and gemcitabine as single agents and in combination. The combination of ETC-159 and paclitaxel demonstrated an anti-tumor effect greater than ETC-159 alone. Extent of combinatory treatment effect were observed to a lesser extent in the Panc320 xenograft. Wnt (in)dependent gene signatures of Panc269 and 320 were consistent with the phenotypes displayed. Gene expression of several key Wnt genes assessed via RT-PCR demonstrated notable fold change following treatment in vivo. Each pancreatic organoid demonstrated varied niche factor dependencies, providing an avenue for targeted therapy, supported through growth analysis following combinatory treatment of Wnt inhibitor and standard chemotherapy in vitro. The clinical utilization of this combinatory treatment modality in pancreatic cancer PDOs has thus far been supported in our patient-derived xenograft models treated with Wnt inhibitor plus paclitaxel or gemcitabine. Gene expression analysis suggests there are key Wnt genes that contribute to the Wnt (in)dependent phenotypes of pancreatic tumors, providing plausible mechanistic explanation for Wnt (in)dependency and susceptibility or resistance to treatment on the genotypic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley J. Hawkins
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Betelehem W. Yacob
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Monica E. Brown
- Section of Developmental Biology, Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Brandon R. Goldstein
- Section of Developmental Biology, Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - John J. Arcaroli
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Stacey M. Bagby
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Sarah J. Hartman
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Morgan Macbeth
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Andrew Goodspeed
- University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Thomas Danhorn
- University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Robert W. Lentz
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Christopher H. Lieu
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Alexis D. Leal
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Wells A. Messersmith
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Dempsey
- Section of Developmental Biology, Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Todd M. Pitts
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
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2
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Athwal H, Kochiyanil A, Bhat V, Allan AL, Parsyan A. Centrosomes and associated proteins in pathogenesis and treatment of breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1370565. [PMID: 38606093 PMCID: PMC11007099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1370565] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide. Despite significant advances in treatment, it remains one of the leading causes of female mortality. The inability to effectively treat advanced and/or treatment-resistant breast cancer demonstrates the need to develop novel treatment strategies and targeted therapies. Centrosomes and their associated proteins have been shown to play key roles in the pathogenesis of breast cancer and thus represent promising targets for drug and biomarker development. Centrosomes are fundamental cellular structures in the mammalian cell that are responsible for error-free execution of cell division. Centrosome amplification and aberrant expression of its associated proteins such as Polo-like kinases (PLKs), Aurora kinases (AURKs) and Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) have been observed in various cancers, including breast cancer. These aberrations in breast cancer are thought to cause improper chromosomal segregation during mitosis, leading to chromosomal instability and uncontrolled cell division, allowing cancer cells to acquire new genetic changes that result in evasion of cell death and the promotion of tumor formation. Various chemical compounds developed against PLKs and AURKs have shown meaningful antitumorigenic effects in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of action of these inhibitors is likely related to exacerbation of numerical genomic instability, such as aneuploidy or polyploidy. Furthermore, growing evidence demonstrates enhanced antitumorigenic effects when inhibitors specific to centrosome-associated proteins are used in combination with either radiation or chemotherapy drugs in breast cancer. This review focuses on the current knowledge regarding the roles of centrosome and centrosome-associated proteins in breast cancer pathogenesis and their utility as novel targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harjot Athwal
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Arpitha Kochiyanil
- Faculty of Science, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Vasudeva Bhat
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alison L. Allan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Armen Parsyan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery, St. Joseph’s Health Care London and London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
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3
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Ou Y, Wang M, Xu Q, Sun B, Jia Y. Small molecule agents for triple negative breast cancer: Current status and future prospects. Transl Oncol 2024; 41:101893. [PMID: 38290250 PMCID: PMC10840364 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101893] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer with poor prognosis. The number of cases increased by 2.26 million in 2020, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer type in the world. TNBCs lack hormone receptor (HR) and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2), which limits treatment options. Currently, paclitaxel-based drugs combined with other chemotherapeutics remain the main treatment for TNBC. There is currently no consensus on the best therapeutic regimen for TNBC. However, there have been successful clinical trials exploring large-molecule monoclonal antibodies, small-molecule targeted drugs, and novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Although monoclonal antibodies have produced clinical success, their large molecular weight can limit therapeutic benefits. It is worth noting that in the past 30 years, the FDA has approved small molecule drugs for HER2-positive breast cancers. The lack of effective targets and the occurrence of drug resistance pose significant challenges in the treatment of TNBC. To improve the prognosis of TNBC, it is crucial to search for effective targets and to overcome drug resistance. This review examines the clinical efficacy, adverse effects, resistance mechanisms, and potential solutions of targeted small molecule drugs in both monotherapies and combination therapies. New therapeutic targets, including nuclear export protein 1 (XPO1) and hedgehog (Hh), are emerging as potential options for researchers and become integrated into clinical trials for TNBC. Additionally, there is growing interest in the potential of targeted protein degradation chimeras (PROTACs), degraders of rogue proteins, as a future therapy direction. This review provides potentially valuable insights with clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ou
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengchao Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Xu
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Binxu Sun
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingjie Jia
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.
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4
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Zhang J, Chan DW, Lin SY. Exploiting DNA Replication Stress as a Therapeutic Strategy for Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2775. [PMID: 36359297 PMCID: PMC9687274 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Proliferating cells rely on DNA replication to ensure accurate genome duplication. Cancer cells, including breast cancer cells, exhibit elevated replication stress (RS) due to the uncontrolled oncogenic activation, loss of key tumor suppressors, and defects in the DNA repair machinery. This intrinsic vulnerability provides a great opportunity for therapeutic exploitation. An increasing number of drug candidates targeting RS in breast cancer are demonstrating promising efficacy in preclinical and early clinical trials. However, unresolved challenges lie in balancing the toxicity of these drugs while maintaining clinical efficacy. Furthermore, biomarkers of RS are urgently required to guide patient selection. In this review, we introduce the concept of targeting RS, detail the current therapies that target RS, and highlight the integration of RS with immunotherapies for breast cancer treatment. Additionally, we discuss the potential biomarkers to optimizing the efficacy of these therapies. Together, the continuous advances in our knowledge of targeting RS would benefit more patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Shiaw-Yih Lin
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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5
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Patten LW, Blatchford P, Strand M, Kaizer AM. Assessing the performance of different outcomes for tumor growth studies with animal models. Animal Model Exp Med 2022; 5:248-257. [PMID: 35699330 PMCID: PMC9240739 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The consistency of reporting results for patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) studies is an area of concern. The PDX method commonly starts by implanting a derivative of a human tumor into a mouse, then comparing the tumor growth under different treatment conditions. Currently, a wide array of statistical methods (e.g., t‐test, regression, chi‐squared test) are used to analyze these data, which ultimately depend on the outcome chosen (e.g., tumor volume, relative growth, categorical growth). In this simulation study, we provide empirical evidence for the outcome selection process by comparing the performance of both commonly used outcomes and novel variations of common outcomes used in PDX studies. Data were simulated to mimic tumor growth under multiple scenarios, then each outcome of interest was evaluated for 10 000 iterations. Comparisons between different outcomes were made with respect to average bias, variance, type‐1 error, and power. A total of 18 continuous, categorical, and time‐to‐event outcomes were evaluated, with ultimately 2 outcomes outperforming the others: final tumor volume and change in tumor volume from baseline. Notably, the novel variations of the tumor growth inhibition index (TGII)—a commonly used outcome in PDX studies—was found to perform poorly in several scenarios with inflated type‐1 error rates and a relatively large bias. Finally, all outcomes of interest were applied to a real‐world dataset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke W Patten
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Patrick Blatchford
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Matthew Strand
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Alexander M Kaizer
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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6
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Dall GV, Hamilton A, Ratnayake G, Scott C, Barker H. Interrogating the Genomic Landscape of Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: A Potential for Patient Benefit. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061561. [PMID: 35326717 PMCID: PMC8946513 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) is a rare and aggressive gynaecological malignancy. Surgical removal and chemotherapy are commonly used to treat uLMS, but recurrence rates are high. Over the last few decades, clarification of the genomic landscape of uLMS has revealed a number of recurring mutations, including TP53, RB1, ATRX, PTEN, and MED12. Such genomic aberrations are difficult to target therapeutically or are actively targeted in other malignancies, and their potential as targets for the treatment of uLMS remains largely unexplored. Recent identification of deficiencies in homologous recombination in a minority of these tumours, however, has provided a rationale for investigation of PARP inhibitors in this sub-set. Here, we review these mutations and the evidence for therapeutic avenues that may be applied in uLMS. We also provide a comprehensive background on diagnosis and current therapeutic strategies as well as reviewing preclinical models of uLMS, which may be employed not only in testing emerging therapies but also in understanding this challenging and deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve V. Dall
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Anne Hamilton
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | | | - Clare Scott
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Holly Barker
- Walter and Eliza Hall, Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (C.S.); (H.B.)
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
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7
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Fallah Y, Demas DM, Jin L, He W, Shajahan-Haq AN. Targeting WEE1 Inhibits Growth of Breast Cancer Cells That Are Resistant to Endocrine Therapy and CDK4/6 Inhibitors. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681530. [PMID: 34277427 PMCID: PMC8281892 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of antiestrogens in extending overall survival of patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast tumors, resistance to these therapies is prevalent. ER+ tumors that progress on antiestrogens are treated with antiestrogens and CDK4/6 inhibitors. However, 20% of these tumors never respond to CDK4/6 inhibitors due to intrinsic resistance. Here, we used endocrine sensitive ER+ MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cells to generate long-term estrogen deprived (LTED) endocrine resistant cells that are intrinsically resistant to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Since treatment with antiestrogens arrests cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, we hypothesized that a defective G1 checkpoint allows resistant cells to escape this arrest but increases their dependency on G2 checkpoint for DNA repair and growth, and hence, targeting the G2 checkpoint will induce cell death. Indeed, inhibition of WEE1, a crucial G2 checkpoint regulator, with AZD1775 (Adavosertib), significantly decreased cell proliferation and increased G2/M arrest, apoptosis and gamma-H2AX levels (a marker for DNA double stranded breaks) in resistant cells compared with sensitive cells. Thus, targeting WEE1 is a promising anti-cancer therapeutic strategy in standard therapy resistant ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassi Fallah
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Diane M Demas
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lu Jin
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Wei He
- Program in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology, VT Biological Transport, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Ayesha N Shajahan-Haq
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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8
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Naik A, Decock J. Targeting of lactate dehydrogenase C dysregulates the cell cycle and sensitizes breast cancer cells to DNA damage response targeted therapy. Mol Oncol 2021; 16:885-903. [PMID: 34050611 PMCID: PMC8847988 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The cancer testis antigen (CTA) lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC) is a promising anticancer target with tumor-specific expression and immunogenicity. Interrogation of breast cancer patient cohorts from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) indicate that upregulation of LDHC expression correlates with unfavorable prognosis. Although the role of LDHC is well characterized in spermatocytes, its role in tumors remains largely unknown. We investigated whether LDHC is involved in regulating genomic stability and whether it could be targeted to affect tumor cellular fitness. Silencing LDHC in four breast cancer cell lines significantly increased the presence of giant cells, nuclear aberrations, DNA damage, and apoptosis. LDHC-silenced cells demonstrated aberrant cell cycle progression with differential expression of cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response regulators. In addition, LDHC silencing-induced microtubule destabilization, culminating in increased mitotic catastrophe and reduced long-term survival. Notably, the clonogenicity of LDHC-silenced cells was further reduced by treatment with the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor olaparib and with the DNA-damaging drug cisplatin. This study supports the therapeutic potential of targeting LDHC to mitigate cancer cell survival and improve sensitivity to agents that cause DNA damage or inhibit its repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adviti Naik
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), Doha, Qatar
| | - Julie Decock
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), Doha, Qatar
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9
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Fernandes DA, Fernandes DD, Malik A, Gomes GNW, Appak-Baskoy S, Berndl E, Gradinaru CC, Kolios MC. Multifunctional nanoparticles as theranostic agents for therapy and imaging of breast cancer. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2021; 218:112110. [PMID: 33865007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2020.112110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, there has been significant developments in nanotechnology, in particular for combined imaging and therapeutic applications (theranostics). The core or shell of nanoemulsions (NEs) can be loaded with various therapeutic agents, including drugs with low solubility for effective treatment, or various imaging agents for specific imaging modalities (e.g., MRI, fluorescence). In this work, perfluorohexane (PFH) NEs were synthesized for theranostic applications and were coupled to silica coated gold nanoparticles (scAuNPs) to increase the generation of PFH bubbles upon laser induced vaporization (i.e., optical droplet vaporization). The localized heat generated from the absorption properties of these nanoparticles (used to provide photoacoustic signals) can also be used to treat cancer without significantly damaging nearby healthy tissues. The theranostic potential of these PFH-NEs for contrast imaging of tumors and as a drug-delivery vehicle for therapeutic purposes were demonstrated for both in vitro and in vivo systems using a combination of photoacoustic, ultrasound and fluorescence imaging modalities. The ability of PFH-NEs to couple with scAuNPs, attach to the membranes of cancer cells and internalize within cancer cells, are encouraging for targeted chemotherapeutic applications for directly inducing cancer cell death via vaporization in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald A Fernandes
- Department of Chemistry & Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada; Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), a partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada; Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada.
| | - Dennis D Fernandes
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A7, Canada; Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Aimen Malik
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Gregory-Neal W Gomes
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A7, Canada; Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Sila Appak-Baskoy
- Department of Chemistry & Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada; Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), a partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada; Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Berndl
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), a partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada; Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada; Department of Physics, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Claudiu C Gradinaru
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A7, Canada; Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Michael C Kolios
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), a partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada; Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada; Department of Physics, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada.
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10
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Hartman SJ, Bagby SM, Yacob BW, Simmons DM, MacBeth M, Lieu CH, Davis SL, Leal AD, Tentler JJ, Diamond JR, Eckhardt SG, Messersmith WA, Pitts TM. WEE1 Inhibition in Combination With Targeted Agents and Standard Chemotherapy in Preclinical Models of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:642328. [PMID: 33869031 PMCID: PMC8044903 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.642328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer with high incidences of p53 mutations. AZD1775 (adavosertib, previously MK-1775) is a small molecule WEE1 inhibitor that abrogates the G2M checkpoint and can potentially synergize with DNA damaging therapies commonly used in PDAC treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify combination partners for AZD1775, including standard chemotherapy or targeted agents, in PDAC preclinical models. Low powered preliminary screens demonstrated that two of the four PDX models responded better to the combinations of AZD1775 with irinotecan or capecitabine than to either single agent. Following the screens, two full powered PDAC PDX models of differing p53 status were tested with the combinations of AZD1775 and irinotecan or capecitabine. The combinations of AZD1775 and SN38 or 5-FU were also tested on PDAC cell lines. Cellular proliferation was measured using an IncuCyte Live Cell Imager and apoptosis was measured using a Caspase-Glo 3/7 assay. Flow cytometry was conducted to measure alterations in cell cycle distribution. Western blot analysis was used to determine the effects of the drug combinations on downstream effectors. In PDX models with mutated p53 status, there was significant tumor growth inhibition from the combination of AZD1775 with irinotecan or capecitabine (P ≤ 0.03), while PDX models with wild type p53 did not show anti-tumor synergy from the same combinations (P ≥ 0.08). The combination of AZD1775 with SN38 or 5-FU significantly decreased proliferation in all PDAC cell lines, and enhanced apoptosis in multiple cell lines. Cell cycle distribution was disrupted from the combination of AZD1775 with SN38 or 5-FU which was recorded as G2M arrest and decreased G1 phase. AZD1775 inhibited phospho-CDC2 and increased the expression of γH2AX that was either maintained or enhanced after combination with SN38 or 5-FU. The combination of AZD1775 with irinotecan/SN38 or capecitabine/5-FU showed anti-tumor effects in vivo and in vitro in PDAC models. These results support further investigation for these combination strategies to enhance outcomes for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Hartman
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Stacey M Bagby
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Betelehem W Yacob
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Dennis M Simmons
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Morgan MacBeth
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Christopher H Lieu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - S Lindsey Davis
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Alexis D Leal
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - John J Tentler
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jennifer R Diamond
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - S Gail Eckhardt
- Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Wells A Messersmith
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Todd M Pitts
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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Wengner AM, Scholz A, Haendler B. Targeting DNA Damage Response in Prostate and Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8273. [PMID: 33158305 PMCID: PMC7663807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormone signaling induces vast gene expression programs which necessitate the local formation of transcription factories at regulatory regions and large-scale alterations of the genome architecture to allow communication among distantly related cis-acting regions. This involves major stress at the genomic DNA level. Transcriptionally active regions are generally instable and prone to breakage due to the torsional stress and local depletion of nucleosomes that make DNA more accessible to damaging agents. A dedicated DNA damage response (DDR) is therefore essential to maintain genome integrity at these exposed regions. The DDR is a complex network involving DNA damage sensor proteins, such as the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1), the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase and the ATM and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase, as central regulators. The tight interplay between the DDR and steroid hormone receptors has been unraveled recently. Several DNA repair factors interact with the androgen and estrogen receptors and support their transcriptional functions. Conversely, both receptors directly control the expression of agents involved in the DDR. Impaired DDR is also exploited by tumors to acquire advantageous mutations. Cancer cells often harbor germline or somatic alterations in DDR genes, and their association with disease outcome and treatment response led to intensive efforts towards identifying selective inhibitors targeting the major players in this process. The PARP-1 inhibitors are now approved for ovarian, breast, and prostate cancer with specific genomic alterations. Additional DDR-targeting agents are being evaluated in clinical studies either as single agents or in combination with treatments eliciting DNA damage (e.g., radiation therapy, including targeted radiotherapy, and chemotherapy) or addressing targets involved in maintenance of genome integrity. Recent preclinical and clinical findings made in addressing DNA repair dysfunction in hormone-dependent and -independent prostate and breast tumors are presented. Importantly, the combination of anti-hormonal therapy with DDR inhibition or with radiation has the potential to enhance efficacy but still needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bernard Haendler
- Preclinical Research, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.W.); (A.S.)
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Won KA, Spruck C. Triple‑negative breast cancer therapy: Current and future perspectives (Review). Int J Oncol 2020; 57:1245-1261. [PMID: 33174058 PMCID: PMC7646583 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2020.5135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 10-15% of all breast cancer cases. TNBCs lack estrogen and progesterone receptors and express low levels of HER2, and therefore do not respond to hormonal or anti-HER2 therapies. TNBC is a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer that generally displays poorer prognosis compared to other breast cancer subtypes. TNBC is chemotherapy sensitive, and this treatment remains the standard of care despite its limited benefit. Recent advances with novel agents have been made for specific subgroups with PD-L1+ tumors or germline Brca-mutated tumors. However, only a fraction of these patients responds to immune checkpoint or PARP inhibitors and even those who do respond often develop resistance and relapse. Various new agents and combination strategies have been explored to further understand molecular and immunological aspects of TNBC. In this review, we discuss clinical trials in the management of TNBC as well as perspectives for potential future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles Spruck
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI‑Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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13
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Ghelli Luserna di Rorà A, Cerchione C, Martinelli G, Simonetti G. A WEE1 family business: regulation of mitosis, cancer progression, and therapeutic target. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:126. [PMID: 32958072 PMCID: PMC7507691 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00959-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The inhibition of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway in the treatment of cancer has recently gained interest, and different DDR inhibitors have been developed. Among them, the most promising ones target the WEE1 kinase family, which has a crucial role in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage identification and repair in both nonmalignant and cancer cells. This review recapitulates and discusses the most recent findings on the biological function of WEE1/PKMYT1 during the cell cycle and in the DNA damage repair, with a focus on their dual role as tumor suppressors in nonmalignant cells and pseudo-oncogenes in cancer cells. We here report the available data on the molecular and functional alterations of WEE1/PKMYT1 kinases in both hematological and solid tumors. Moreover, we summarize the preclinical information on 36 chemo/radiotherapy agents, and in particular their effect on cell cycle checkpoints and on the cellular WEE1/PKMYT1-dependent response. Finally, this review outlines the most important pre-clinical and clinical data available on the efficacy of WEE1/PKMYT1 inhibitors in monotherapy and in combination with chemo/radiotherapy agents or with other selective inhibitors currently used or under evaluation for the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ghelli Luserna di Rorà
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Claudio Cerchione
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy
| | - Giorgia Simonetti
- Biosciences Laboratory (Onco-hematology Unit), Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Via P. Maroncelli 40, 47014, Meldola, FC, Italy.
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