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Lucas-Domínguez R, Aragonés González M, Sixto-Costoya A, Ruiz-Martínez E, Alonso-Arroyo A, Valderrama-Zurián JC. The inclusion of the gender perspective in oncology research with Spanish participation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30043. [PMID: 38756605 PMCID: PMC11096823 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30043] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The gender perspective is important for a better diagnosis and treatment of diseases, especially in the field of oncology. This study aimed to analyse the gender approach in scientific articles in the field of oncology by studying the gender composition of the authorship of papers and the gender inclusion in the research carried out. A bibliographic search of articles and reviews signed by at least one Spanish institution published between 2010 and 2019 was carried out using the Science Citation Index Expanded database in the Oncology category. A total of 7523 studies were classified according to the gender composition determined by the author's name and a randomised sample was used to evaluate the inclusion of gender perspectives using a checklist. This study revealed a lack of gender parity in the authorship of oncology publications involving Spanish participation. Papers without author gender parity were eight times higher than papers with parity and showed a greater presence of male than female authorship (58 % versus 31 %). Regarding the introduction of the gender perspective, a negative response of 68 % referring to compliance with the entire checklist was obtained, and only a fifth of the articles presented gender balance in the study sample. Moreover, there is a positive correlation between gender parity in authorship and gender perspective integration in published research. In conclusion, there is a great need to advance the inclusion of gender perspectives in cancer research to overcome gender bias and promote better prevention, detection, and intervention for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rut Lucas-Domínguez
- Grupo UISYS. Departamento de Historia de la Ciencia y Documentación, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universitat de Valencia, Spain
- Unidad asociada al Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación Avanzada sobre Evaluación de la Ciencia y la Universidad (INAECU), UC3M-UAM3, Spain
- CIBERONC, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Aragonés González
- Universitat d'Alacant, Grupo de Investigación sobre Trabajo Social y Servicios Sociales (GITSS), Spain
| | - Andrea Sixto-Costoya
- Grupo UISYS. Departamento de Historia de la Ciencia y Documentación, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universitat de Valencia, Spain
- Unidad asociada al Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación Avanzada sobre Evaluación de la Ciencia y la Universidad (INAECU), UC3M-UAM3, Spain
- Departamento de Trabajo Social y Servicios Sociales, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universitat de València, Spain
| | - Emmanuel Ruiz-Martínez
- Grupo UISYS. Departamento de Historia de la Ciencia y Documentación, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universitat de Valencia, Spain
| | - Alonso Alonso-Arroyo
- Grupo UISYS. Departamento de Historia de la Ciencia y Documentación, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universitat de Valencia, Spain
- Unidad asociada al Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación Avanzada sobre Evaluación de la Ciencia y la Universidad (INAECU), UC3M-UAM3, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Valderrama-Zurián
- Grupo UISYS. Departamento de Historia de la Ciencia y Documentación, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universitat de Valencia, Spain
- Unidad asociada al Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación Avanzada sobre Evaluación de la Ciencia y la Universidad (INAECU), UC3M-UAM3, Spain
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Li F, Zheng T, Gu X. Prognostic risk factor analysis and nomogram construction for primary liver cancer in elderly patients based on SEER database. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e051946. [PMID: 36288830 PMCID: PMC9615972 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the risk factors and construct a nomogram model for the prognosis of primary liver cancer in the elderly based on the data from the US SEER database. METHODS The latest data of patients with primary liver cancer were extracted from the SEER database using SEER*STAT software, and the required variables were included. The data were screened and then divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort. A nomogram model was constructed by screening the variables through univariate and multivariate Cox analysis. The C-Index, ROC and calibration curves were used for model evaluation. RESULTS A total of 10 824 eligible cases from 2004 to 2017 were extracted, among which, 7757 cases were included in the training cohort and 3247 in the validation cohort. The C-Index of the model was 0.747 (in the training cohort) and 0.773 (in the validation cohort). The 3-year area under the curve (AUCs) of the training and the validation cohorts were 0.760 and 0.750, and the 5-year AUCs of the two cohorts were 0.761 and 0.748. The calibration curves showed an ideal calibration of the constructed model. CONCLUSIONS The nomogram model constructed followed by Cox regression analysis showed moderate calibration and discrimination property, and can provide reference to a certain extent for furture clinical application of primary liver cancer in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyuan Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Linping District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Zheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Linping District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuewei Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhuji People's Hospital, Zhuji, Zhejiang, China
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Human Melanoma Cells Differentially Express RNASEL/RNase-L and miR-146a-5p under Sex Hormonal Stimulation. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:4790-4802. [PMID: 36286041 PMCID: PMC9601115 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44100326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Polymorphisms in the ribonuclease L (RNASEL) coding gene and hsa-miR-146a-5p (miR-146a) have been associated with melanoma in a sex-specific manner. We hypothesized that RNASEL and miR-146a expression could be influenced by sex hormones playing a role in the female advantages observed in melanoma incidence and survival. Thus, we explored the effects of testosterone and 17β-estradiol on RNASEL and miR-146a expression in LM-20 and A375 melanoma cell lines. Direct targeting of miR-146a to the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of RNASEL was examined using a luciferase reporter system. Our results indicate that RNASEL is a direct target of miR-146a in both melanoma cell lines. Trough qPCR and western blot analyses, we explored the effect of miR-146a mimic transfection in the presence of each hormone either on RNASEL mRNA level or on protein expression of RNase-L, the enzyme codified by RNASEL gene. In the presence of testosterone or 17β-estradiol, miR-146a overexpression did not influence RNASEL transcript level in LM-20 cell line, but it slightly induced RNASEL mRNA level in A375 cells. Remarkably, miR-146a overexpression was able to repress the protein level of RNase-L in both LM-20 and A375 cells in the presence of each hormone, as well as to elicit high expression levels of the activated form of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)1/2, hence confirming the pro-tumorigenic role of miR-146a overexpression in melanoma. Thereafter, we assessed if the administration of each hormone could affect the endogenous expression of RNASEL and miR-146a genes in LM-20 and A375 cell lines. Testosterone exerted no significant effect on RNASEL gene expression in both cell lines, while 17β-estradiol enhanced RNASEL transcript level at least in LM-20 melanoma cells. Conversely, miR-146a transcript augmented only in the presence of testosterone in either melanoma cell line. Importantly, each hormone acted quite the opposite regarding the RNase-L protein expression, i.e., testosterone significantly decreased RNase-L expression, whereas 17β-estradiol increased it. Overall, the data show that, in melanoma cells treated with 17β-estradiol, RNase-L expression increased likely by transcriptional induction of its gene. Testosterone, instead, decreased RNase-L expression in melanoma cell lines with a post-transcriptional mechanism in which miR-146a could play a role. In conclusion, the pro-tumor activity of androgen hormone in melanoma cells could be exacerbated by both miR-146a increase and RNase-L downregulation. These events may contribute to the worse outcome in male melanoma patients.
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Abbas Q, Kanwal U, Saeed W, Khan MU, Shahzadi M, Faran M. Relationship of Muslim Religiosity and Death Anxiety with the Mediating Effect of Optimism and Depression Among Cancer Patients in Pakistan. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:1418-1436. [PMID: 34514549 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01415-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Optimism and the practice of any religion are known to reduce depression and anxiety in cancer patients. In the present study, the specific role of Muslim religiosity, optimism, depression, and death anxiety in cancer patients has been explored. The sample of this study consisted of 200 cancer patients from different hospitals of the districts Faisalabad and Lahore (Pakistan). The sample's average age was 26.6 years. Parallel mediation findings show that optimism and depression are significant mediators between Muslim religiosity and death anxiety among cancer patients. Muslim religiosity is positively associated with optimism, and it helps to decrease the level of death anxiety, while depression is negatively associated with Muslim religiosity, and high depression increases the death anxiety level of cancer patients. In conclusion, Muslim religiosity and optimism play significant roles in managing depressive symptoms and death anxiety among cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qasir Abbas
- Department of Applied Psychology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - Uzma Kanwal
- Department of Applied Psychology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Wizra Saeed
- Department of Professional Psychology, Bahria University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umar Khan
- Department of Applied Psychology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mafia Shahzadi
- Department of Applied Psychology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faran
- Institute of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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De Francia S, Mancardi D, Berchialla P, Armando T, Storto S, Allegra S, Soave G, Racca S, Chiara F, Carnovale J, Ciuffreda L, Mussa MV. Gender-specific side effects of chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2022; 100:371-377. [PMID: 35104152 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2021-0622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic carcinoma incidence showed a significant increase in men over the last few years and the prognosis remains poor. Patients are treated with different pharmacological plans with no evidence about gender-specific adverse effects. We aimed to investigate differences in the incidence of chemotherapy side effects in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, to provide insights toward a personalized assistance based in individual needs. The sample population is composed of 207 patients. Regression model highlighted the predictive role of female gender for alopecia, constipation, hand-foot syndrome, and epigastric pain. Also, considering single therapeutic schemes, gender differences have been reported. Moreover, evaluating the effect of age, a general reduced risk of toxicity has been reported in younger patients. To personalize chemotherapy and increase patient survival rate and life quality during the therapy, gender medicine and pharmacology studies are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia De Francia
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniele Mancardi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Berchialla
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Tiziana Armando
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvana Storto
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Sarah Allegra
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Soave
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Racca
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiara
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Jennifer Carnovale
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Libero Ciuffreda
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Valentina Mussa
- Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
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Colorectal cancer chemotherapy: can sex-specific disparities impact on drug toxicities? Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 78:1029-1038. [PMID: 35192004 PMCID: PMC9107437 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-022-03298-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Given the biological differences between females and males, sex-specific evaluations should be carried out to obtain better cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. To this purpose, our aim was to evaluate sex differences for toxicity in a cohort of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods We performed a retrospective study in 329 CRC patients. Differences between males and females were tested performing the Mann-Whitney U test or the Fisher exact test. Multivariate logistic regression models were computed to evaluate the association between sex and risk of chemotherapy agent-related toxicity. Results According association sex toxicity, significant differences were observed in the median number of episodes of nausea (p = 0.044), vomit (p = 0.007), heartburn (p = 0.022), thrombocytopenia (p = 0.005), mucositis (p = 0.024). Moreover, statistically significant differences between males and females were observed in the distribution of the highest toxicity grades of nausea (p = 0.024), heartburn (p = 0.016), and thrombocytopenia (p = 0.034). Females have an increased risk of vomit (p = 0.002), alopecia (p = 0.035), heartburn (p = 0.005), mucositis (p = 0.003), and lower risk for thrombocytopenia (p = 0.005). Conclusion According to the association of sex chemotherapy agent-related toxicities, females resulted on average at a significant increased risk of more common adverse events (constipation, dysgeusia, alopecia, heartburn, vomit, asthenia, nausea, pain events, and mucositis). Sex-tailored CRC chemotherapy treatment is necessary to obtain efficacy avoiding toxicity, based on patients’ biological and genetic characteristics, a vision that would change CRC setting, a stable disease but still orphan of a real tailored approach. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00228-022-03298-y.
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Sex-Based Differences in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1329:499-533. [PMID: 34664253 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-73119-9_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Cancers are heterogeneous multifactorial diseases consisting of a major public health issue worldwide. Sex disparities are evidenced in cancer incidence, mortality, expression of prognosis factor, response to treatment, and survival. For both sexes, an interplay of intrinsic and environmental factors influences cancer cells and tumor microenvironment (TME) components. The TME cumulates both supportive and communicative functions, contributing to cancer development, progression, and metastasis dissemination. The frontline topics of this chapter are focused on the contribution of sex, via steroid hormones, such as estrogens and androgens, on the following components of the TME: cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), extracellular matrix (ECM), blood and lymphatic endothelial cells, and immunity/inflammatory system.
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Peired AJ, Campi R, Angelotti ML, Antonelli G, Conte C, Lazzeri E, Becherucci F, Calistri L, Serni S, Romagnani P. Sex and Gender Differences in Kidney Cancer: Clinical and Experimental Evidence. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184588. [PMID: 34572815 PMCID: PMC8466874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Kidney cancer is a frequent malignant tumor that accounts for approximately 5% of all cancer incidences. It affects both males and females, but males are twice as likely to develop kidney cancer than females. Evidence shows that this discrepancy takes root in individual differences, such as genetics or pathologies that affect the patient. It is then reflected in the clinical characteristics of the tumors, as males have larger and more aggressive tumors. Understanding the sex- and gender-based differences in kidney cancer is essential to be able to offer patients individualized medicine that would better cover their needs in terms of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Abstract Sex and gender disparities have been reported for different types of non-reproductive cancers. Males are two times more likely to develop kidney cancer than females and have a higher death rate. These differences can be explained by looking at genetics and genomics, as well as other risk factors such as hypertension and obesity, lifestyle, and female sex hormones. Examination of the hormonal signaling pathways bring further insights into sex-related differences. Sex and gender-based disparities can be observed at the diagnostic, histological and treatment levels, leading to significant outcome difference. This review summarizes the current knowledge about sex and gender-related differences in the clinical presentation of patients with kidney cancer and the possible biological mechanisms that could explain these observations. Underlying sex-based differences may contribute to the development of sex-specific prognostic and diagnostic tools and the improvement of personalized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Julie Peired
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Riccardo Campi
- Unit of Urological Robotic Surgery and Renal Transplantation, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.C.); (S.S.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Lucia Angelotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Giulia Antonelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Carolina Conte
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Elena Lazzeri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Francesca Becherucci
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Linda Calistri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Sergio Serni
- Unit of Urological Robotic Surgery and Renal Transplantation, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.C.); (S.S.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Romagnani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.L.A.); (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.L.); (L.C.); (P.R.)
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy;
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Song HK, Kim SY. The Role of Sex-specific Long Non-coding RNAs in Cancer Prevention and Therapy. J Cancer Prev 2021; 26:98-109. [PMID: 34258248 PMCID: PMC8249206 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2021.26.2.98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The functions of a large number of non-coding genes in human DNA have yet to be accurately identified. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) measuring 10 kb or less in length regulates transcription or post-transcriptional events. The lncRNAs have attracted increased attention of researchers in recent years. In this review, we summarize the recently published lncRNAs which are known to influence cancer development and progression. We also discuss recent studies investigating tumor-specific lncRNA expression. These lncRNAs provide very useful information that allows prediction of the degree of malignancy and a survival rate in cancer patients as clinically relevant biomarkers. Because symptoms and progression of cancer differ from onset to death between males and females, it is important to consider the gender of the patient when diagnosing cancer and predicting the progression. Considering the importance of gender difference, we also examine the influence of sex hormones involved in the expression and regulation of lncRNAs as biomarkers. Many of the lncRNAs examined in this review have been studied in cancers occurring in the female or male reproductive organs, but the association between lncRNAs and sex hormones has also been reported in common organs such as the lung, renal and colon. Although lncRNAs have not yet been widely used as definitive cancer indicators, recent studies have demonstrated the potential role of lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets reflecting sex-specificity in a number of different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Kyung Song
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Technology, Duksung Women's University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun Young Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Technology, Duksung Women's University, Seoul, Korea
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The Sex-Related Interplay between TME and Cancer: On the Critical Role of Estrogen, MicroRNAs and Autophagy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133287. [PMID: 34209162 PMCID: PMC8267629 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a fundamental role in tumor progression and response to therapy. The plethora of components constituting the TME, such as stroma, fibroblasts, endothelial and immune cells, as well as macromolecules, e.g., hormones and cytokines, and epigenetic factors, such as microRNAs, can modulate the survival or death of cancer cells. Actually, the TME can stimulate the genetically regulated programs that the cell puts in place under stress: apoptosis or, of interest here, autophagy. However, the implication of autophagy in tumor growth appears still undefined. Autophagy mainly represents a cyto-protective mechanism that allows cell survival but, in certain circumstances, also leads to the blocking of cell cycle progression, possibly leading to cell death. Since significant sex/gender differences in the incidence, progression and response to cancer therapy have been widely described in the literature, in this review, we analyzed the roles played by key components of the TME, e.g., estrogen and microRNAs, on autophagy regulation from a sex/gender-based perspective. We focused our attention on four paradigmatic and different forms of cancers-colon cancer, melanoma, lymphoma, and lung cancer-concluding that sex-specific differences may exert a significant impact on TME/cancer interaction and, thus, tumor growth.
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Pinton G, Manzotti B, Balzano C, Moro L. Expression and clinical implications of estrogen receptors in thoracic malignancies: a narrative review. J Thorac Dis 2021; 13:1851-1863. [PMID: 33841973 PMCID: PMC8024832 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-20-2277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Thoracic malignancies represent a significant global health burden with incidence and mortality increasing year by year. Thoracic cancer prognosis and treatment options depend on several factors, including the type and size of the tumor, its location, and the overall health status of patients. Gender represents an important prognostic variable in thoracic malignancies. One of the greatest biological differences between women and men is the presence of female sex hormones, and an increasing number of studies suggest that estrogens may play either a causative or a protective role in thoracic malignancies. Over the past 60 years since the discovery of the first nuclear estrogen receptor (ER) isoform α and the almost 20 years since the discovery of the second estrogen receptor, ERβ, different mechanisms governing estrogen action have been identified and characterized. This literature review reports the published data regarding the expression and function of ERs in different thoracic malignancies and discuss sex disparity in clinical outcomes. From this analysis emerges that further efforts are warranted to better elucidate the role of sex hormones in thoracic malignancies, and to reduce disparities in care between genders. Understanding the mechanisms by which gender-related differences can affect and interfere with the onset and evolution of thoracic malignancies and impact on response to therapies could help to improve the knowledge needed to develop increasingly personalized and targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Pinton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Beatrice Manzotti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Cecilia Balzano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Laura Moro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Oh S, Jung J. Sex-dependent liver cancer xenograft models for predicting clinical data in the evaluation of anticancer drugs. Lab Anim Res 2021; 37:10. [PMID: 33632339 PMCID: PMC7905914 DOI: 10.1186/s42826-021-00087-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence and mortality of liver cancer show a great difference between the sexes. We established sex-dependent liver cancer xenograft models and investigated whether such sex-dependent models could be used to simultaneously evaluate the therapeutic and adverse effects of anticancer drugs for drug screening. Results In the in-vitro test, the cytotoxicity of anticancer drugs (cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, and doxorubicin) was compared between male- and female-derived liver cancer cell lines. Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil exhibited cytotoxicity without sex-difference, but doxorubicin showed dose-dependently significant cytotoxicity only in male-derived cells. Our results showed a strong correlation between preclinical and clinical data with the use of sex-dependent liver cancer xenograft models. Moreover, the male-derived Hep3B-derived xenograft model was more sensitive than the female-derived SNU-387-derived xenograft model against doxorubicin treatment. Doxorubicin showed more severe cardiotoxicity in the male xenograft model than in the female model. We investigated the occurrence frequency of doxorubicin-related cardiotoxicity using data obtained from the Korea Institute of Drug Safety & Risk Management Database, but no significant difference was observed between the sexes. Conclusions Our results suggest that sex-dependent xenograft models are useful tools for evaluating the therapeutic and adverse effects of anticancer drugs, because sex is an important consideration in drug development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42826-021-00087-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungryong Oh
- College of Pharmacy, Duksung Women's University, #33, Samyang-ro 144-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul, 01369, South Korea
| | - Joohee Jung
- College of Pharmacy, Duksung Women's University, #33, Samyang-ro 144-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul, 01369, South Korea.
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Rey F, Messa L, Pandini C, Launi R, Barzaghini B, Micheletto G, Raimondi MT, Bertoli S, Cereda C, Zuccotti GV, Cancello R, Carelli S. Transcriptome Analysis of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue from Severely Obese Patients Highlights Deregulation Profiles in Coding and Non-Coding Oncogenes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1989. [PMID: 33671464 PMCID: PMC7922682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a major risk factor for a large number of secondary diseases, including cancer. Specific insights into the role of gender differences and secondary comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cancer risk, are yet to be fully identified. The aim of this study is thus to find a correlation between the transcriptional deregulation present in the subcutaneous adipose tissue of obese patients and the oncogenic signature present in multiple cancers, in the presence of T2D, and considering gender differences. The subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of five healthy, normal-weight women, five obese women, five obese women with T2D and five obese men were subjected to RNA-sequencing, leading to the identification of deregulated coding and non-coding RNAs, classified for their oncogenic score. A panel of DE RNAs was validated via Real-Time PCR and oncogene expression levels correlated the oncogenes with anthropometrical parameters, highlighting significant trends. For each analyzed condition, we identified the deregulated pathways associated with cancer, the prediction of possible prognosis for different cancer types and the lncRNAs involved in oncogenic networks and tissues. Our results provided a comprehensive characterization of oncogenesis correlation in SAT, providing specific insights into the possible molecular targets implicated in this process. Indeed, the identification of deregulated oncogenes also in SAT highlights hypothetical targets implicated in the increased oncogenic risk in highly obese subjects. These results could shed light on new molecular targets to be specifically modulated in obesity and highlight which cancers should receive the most attention in terms of better prevention in obesity-affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Rey
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milano, Via Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.R.); (R.L.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric Clinical Research Centre Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milano, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Letizia Messa
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Cecilia Pandini
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.P.); (C.C.)
| | - Rossella Launi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milano, Via Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.R.); (R.L.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric Clinical Research Centre Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milano, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Bianca Barzaghini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Giancarlo Micheletto
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, INCO and Department of General Surgery, Istituto Clinico Sant’Ambrogio, University of Milan, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy;
| | - Manuela Teresa Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Simona Bertoli
- Obesity Unit—Laboratory of Nutrition and Obesity Research, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Ariosto 9, 20145 Milano, Italy; (S.B.); (R.C.)
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status (ICANS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristina Cereda
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.P.); (C.C.)
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milano, Via Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.R.); (R.L.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric Clinical Research Centre Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milano, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital “V. Buzzi”, Via Lodovico Castelvetro 32, 20154 Milano, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cancello
- Obesity Unit—Laboratory of Nutrition and Obesity Research, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Ariosto 9, 20145 Milano, Italy; (S.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Stephana Carelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milano, Via Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy; (F.R.); (R.L.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric Clinical Research Centre Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milano, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
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14
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Kim SY, Song HK, Lee SK, Kim SG, Woo HG, Yang J, Noh HJ, Kim YS, Moon A. Sex-Biased Molecular Signature for Overall Survival of Liver Cancer Patients. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2020; 28:491-502. [PMID: 33077700 PMCID: PMC7585639 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2020.157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex/gender disparity has been shown in the incidence and prognosis of many types of diseases, probably due to differences in genes, physiological conditions such as hormones, and lifestyle between the sexes. The mortality and survival rates of many cancers, especially liver cancer, differ between men and women. Due to the pronounced sex/gender disparity, considering sex/gender may be necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer. By analyzing research articles through a PubMed literature search, the present review identified 12 genes which showed practical relevance to cancer and sex disparities. Among the 12 sex-specific genes, 7 genes (BAP1, CTNNB1, FOXA1, GSTO1, GSTP1, IL6, and SRPK1) showed sex-biased function in liver cancer. Here we summarized previous findings of cancer molecular signature including our own analysis, and showed that sex-biased molecular signature CTNNB1High, IL6High, RHOAHigh and GLIPR1Low may serve as a female-specific index for prediction and evaluation of OS in liver cancer patients. This review suggests a potential implication of sex-biased molecular signature in liver cancer, providing a useful information on diagnosis and prediction of disease progression based on gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Young Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Duksung Women's University, Seoul 01369, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Kyung Song
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Duksung Women's University, Seoul 01369, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Kyeong Lee
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06649, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Geon Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Goo Woo
- Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Yang
- Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jin Noh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biochemistry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - You-Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biochemistry, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Aree Moon
- Duksung Innovative Drug Center, College of Pharmacy, Duksung Women's University, Seoul 01369, Republic of Korea
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15
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Effects of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction on Cell Migration and Ocular Tumor Invasion in Drosophila. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020. [DOI: 10.1155/2020/5463652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (XFZYD), a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) decoction mainly for treating blood stasis syndrome, has been widely investigated and applied in clinic and in laboratory. XFZYD contains 11 herbs and has been identified to promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis for cardiovascular disease. Meanwhile, blood stasis is directly related to malignant tumor according to TCM basic theory. However, the effects of XFZYD on tumor metastasis and the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here, we employed well-establishedDrosophilacell migration and tumor invasion models to explore whether XFZYD has the anticancer activity on tumor metastasisin vivo. Our work has demonstrated that XFZYD could suppress cell migration and tumor invasion at the moderate concentrations. In addition, XFZYD altered the expression of MMP1,β-integrin, and E-cadherin to impede cell migration. Moreover, XFZYD inhibited ocular tumor invasion presumably by reducing the activity of Notch signaling. Together, these evidences reveal a positive role of XFZYD in suppressing cell migration and tumor metastasis, providing the potential drug targets and key clues for cancer clinical treatment strategies.
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16
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Pecori Giraldi F, Cassarino MF, Sesta A, Terreni M, Lasio G, Losa M. Sexual Dimorphism in Cellular and Molecular Features in Human ACTH-Secreting Pituitary Adenomas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E669. [PMID: 32183012 PMCID: PMC7139870 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background. Cushing's disease presents gender disparities in prevalence and clinical course. Little is known, however, about sexual dimorphism at the level of the corticotrope adenoma itself. The aim of the present study was to evaluate molecular features of ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas collected from female and male patients with Cushing's disease. (2) Methods. We analyzed 153 ACTH-secreting adenomas collected from 31 men and 122 women. Adenomas were established in culture and ACTH synthesis and secretion assessed in basal conditions as well as during incubation with CRH or dexamethasone. Concurrently, microarray analysis was performed on formalin-fixed specimens and differences in the expression profiles between specimens from male and female patients identified. (3) Results. ACTH medium concentrations in adenomas obtained from male patients were significantly lower than those observed in adenomas from female patients. This could be observed for baseline as well as modulated secretion. Analysis of corticotrope transcriptomes revealed considerable similarities with few, selected differences in functional annotations. Differentially expressed genes comprised genes with known sexual dimorphism, genes involved in tumour development and genes relevant to pituitary pathophysiology. (4) Conclusions. Our study shows for the first time that human corticotrope adenomas present sexual dimorphism and underlines the need for a gender-dependent analysis of these tumours. Differentially expressed genes may represent the basis for gender-tailored target therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pecori Giraldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, University of Milan; 20122 Milan, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Cassarino
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Sesta
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Lasio
- Deparment of Neurosurgery, Istituto Clinico Humanitas, 20089 Rozzano (Milan), Italy;
| | - Marco Losa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ospedale San Raffaele, 20136 Milan, Italy;
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17
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" Bridging the Gap" Everything that Could Have Been Avoided If We Had Applied Gender Medicine, Pharmacogenetics and Personalized Medicine in the Gender-Omics and Sex-Omics Era. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010296. [PMID: 31906252 PMCID: PMC6982247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender medicine is the first step of personalized medicine and patient-centred care, an essential development to achieve the standard goal of a holistic approach to patients and diseases. By addressing the interrelation and integration of biological markers (i.e., sex) with indicators of psychological/cultural behaviour (i.e., gender), gender medicine represents the crucial assumption for achieving the personalized health-care required in the third millennium. However, ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ are often misused as synonyms, leading to frequent misunderstandings in those who are not deeply involved in the field. Overall, we have to face the evidence that biological, genetic, epigenetic, psycho-social, cultural, and environmental factors mutually interact in defining sex/gender differences, and at the same time in establishing potential unwanted sex/gender disparities. Prioritizing the role of sex/gender in physiological and pathological processes is crucial in terms of efficient prevention, clinical signs’ identification, prognosis definition, and therapy optimization. In this regard, the omics-approach has become a powerful tool to identify sex/gender-specific disease markers, with potential benefits also in terms of socio-psychological wellbeing for each individual, and cost-effectiveness for National Healthcare systems. “Being a male or being a female” is indeed important from a health point of view and it is no longer possible to avoid “sex and gender lens” when approaching patients. Accordingly, personalized healthcare must be based on evidence from targeted research studies aimed at understanding how sex and gender influence health across the entire life span. The rapid development of genetic tools in the molecular medicine approaches and their impact in healthcare is an example of highly specialized applications that have moved from specialists to primary care providers (e.g., pharmacogenetic and pharmacogenomic applications in routine medical practice). Gender medicine needs to follow the same path and become an established medical approach. To face the genetic, molecular and pharmacological bases of the existing sex/gender gap by means of omics approaches will pave the way to the discovery and identification of novel drug-targets/therapeutic protocols, personalized laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures (sex/gender-omics). In this scenario, the aim of the present review is not to simply resume the state-of-the-art in the field, rather an opportunity to gain insights into gender medicine, spanning from molecular up to social and psychological stances. The description and critical discussion of some key selected multidisciplinary topics considered as paradigmatic of sex/gender differences and sex/gender inequalities will allow to draft and design strategies useful to fill the existing gap and move forward.
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18
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Buonerba C, Iaccarino S, Dolce P, Pagliuca M, Izzo M, Scafuri L, Costabile F, Riccio V, Ribera D, Mucci B, Carrano S, Picozzi F, Bosso D, Formisano L, Bianco R, De Placido S, Di Lorenzo G. Predictors of Outcomes in Patients with EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Receiving EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091259. [PMID: 31466227 PMCID: PMC6770537 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Some commonly available patient or disease characteristics may be associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving EGFR-TKIs (epidermal growth factor receptor - tyrosine kinase inhibitors). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials (RCTs) to explore differences in outcomes associated with EGFR-TKIs among subgroups of EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients. Pooled HRs for progression or death (PFS-HRs) and pooled HRs for death (OS-HRs) were compared among sub-groups defined according to baseline clinical and demographic variables as well as type of EGFR mutation. In the entire assessable population of 4465 EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients, significant interactions with PFS were found for gender (males vs. females; pooled ratio of the PFS-HRs = 1.2; 95% CI 1.12-1.56), smoking history (smokers vs. non-smokers; pooled ratio of the PFS-HRs = 1.26; 95% CI 1.05-1.51), and type of EGFR mutation (patients with exon 21 L858R mutation vs. exon 19 deletion; pooled ratio of the PFS-HRs = 1.39; 95% CI 1.18-1.63). Male patients, smokers and patients with EGFR exon 21 L858R mutation may derive less benefit from EGFR-TKIs compared to female patients, non-smokers and patients with EGFR exon 19 deletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Buonerba
- Regional Reference Center for Rare Tumors, Department of Oncology and Hematology, AOU Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy.
- National Reference Center for Environmental Health, Zoo-prophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - Simona Iaccarino
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Dolce
- Department of Public Health, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Pagliuca
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Izzo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Scafuri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Costabile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Vittorio Riccio
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Ribera
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Brigitta Mucci
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simone Carrano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Fernanda Picozzi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Bosso
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Formisano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Bianco
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sabino De Placido
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Lorenzo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences 'Vincenzo Tiberio', University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this review has been to elucidate the sex differences in cancer incidence and mortality in cutaneous melanoma. We have evaluated biological and behavioral research to determine where the critical questions exist. RECENT FINDINGS The most recent findings, through 2015, are exploratory in nature but seem to indicate that the differences are more likely due to biological variations rather than behavioral. While behavioral studies do show that women are more likely than men to seek health care and practice healthy behaviors, these differences are not sufficiently strong to explain the variation in incidence and mortality in cutaneous melanoma. Evolved differences in the immune systems of females and the role of sex steroid hormones in immunomodulation are two promising avenues for research. Studies in mice demonstrate that the newer immunotherapies are more effective in females and sex steroid hormones, such as estrogen receptor beta are inversely associated with tumor aggressiveness while testosterone increases it. SUMMARY Our analysis indicates that biological factors need to be investigated more thoroughly to understand the variation in incidence and mortality in cutaneous melanoma. Such understanding could lead to reducing incidence and mortality for both males and females (male incidence is 27.4 per 100,000; female 16.8 per 100,000; male mortality is 3.9 per 100,000; female mortality 1.6 per 100,000). It is most likely that behavioral differences between the sexes cannot account for the preponderance of male mortality. In addition to the important role of genetic factors, it is critical to evaluate further additional biological factors and their interactions with genetics and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Li Luo
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine
| | - Marianne Berwick
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Dermatology
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20
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Grassadonia A, Sperduti I, Vici P, Iezzi L, Brocco D, Gamucci T, Pizzuti L, Maugeri-Saccà M, Marchetti P, Cognetti G, De Tursi M, Natoli C, Barba M, Tinari N. Effect of Gender on the Outcome of Patients Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Phase III Randomized Clinical Trials. J Clin Med 2018; 7:jcm7120542. [PMID: 30545122 PMCID: PMC6306894 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7120542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence has recently emerged on the influence of gender on the immune system. In this systematic review and meta-analysis of phase III randomized clinical trials (RCTs), we explored the impact of gender on survival in patients with advanced cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We performed a comprehensive search of the literature updated to April 2018, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and EMBASE. We extracted data on study characteristics and risk of bias in duplicate. Of 423 unique citations, 21 RCTs were included, inherently to 12,635 patients. Both males and females showed reduced risk of death associated with ICIs use (HR 0.73, p < 0.001 and HR 0.77, p < 0.001, respectively). Subgroup analyses by specific ICI showed similar OS in both genders for anti-PD-1/PDL-1. Anti-CTLA-4 use was associated with longer OS in men only (HR 0.77, p < 0.012), with the exception of melanoma (in women, HR 0.80, p = 0.006). PFS was longer in men than in women (HR 0.67, p < 0.001 and HR 0.77, p = 0.100, respectively). Conclusively, ICIs use was associated with more favorable outcomes in men, particularly for anti-CTLA-4 agents. In melanoma, not gender-related factors may influence the anti-tumor immune response evoked by ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Grassadonia
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Isabella Sperduti
- Department of Bio-Statistics, RCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Vici
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Laura Iezzi
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Davide Brocco
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Teresa Gamucci
- Medical Oncology, Sandro Pertini Hospital, 00157 Rome, Italy.
| | - Laura Pizzuti
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marcello Maugeri-Saccà
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
- Scientific Direction, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Medical Oncology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Gaetana Cognetti
- Digital library, Knowledge Center "Riccardo Maceratini" and Patient Library, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Michele De Tursi
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Clara Natoli
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Barba
- Division of Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicola Tinari
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences and CeSI-MeT, G. D'Annunzio University, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
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21
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Carè A, Bellenghi M, Matarrese P, Gabriele L, Salvioli S, Malorni W. Sex disparity in cancer: roles of microRNAs and related functional players. Cell Death Differ 2018; 25:477-485. [PMID: 29352271 PMCID: PMC5864217 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-017-0051-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A sexual dimorphism at the cellular level has been suggested to play a role in cancer onset and progression. In particular, very recent studies have unraveled striking differences between cells carrying XX or XY chromosomes in terms of response to stressful stimuli, indicating the presence of genetic and epigenetic differences determining sex-specific metabolic or phenotypic traits. Although this field of investigation is still in its infancy, available data suggest a key role of sexual chromosomes in determining cell life or death. In particular, cells carrying XX chromosomes exhibit a higher adaptive potential and survival behavior in response to microenvironmental variations with respect to XY cells. Cells from females also appear to be equipped with more efficient epigenetic machinery than the male counterpart. In particular, the X chromosome contains an unexpected high number of microRNAs (miRs), at present 118, in comparison with only two miRs localized on chromosome Y, and an average of 40-50 on the autosomes. The regulatory power of these small non-coding RNAs is well recognized, as 30-50% of all protein-coding genes are targeted by miRs and their role in cell fate has been well demonstrated. In addition, several further insights, including DNA methylation patterns that are different in males and females, claim for a significant gender disparity in cancer and in the immune system activity against tumors. In this brief paper, we analyze the state of the art of our knowledge on the implication of miRs encoded on sex chromosomes, and their related functional paths, in the regulation of cell homeostasis and depict possible perspectives for the epigenetic research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Carè
- Oncology Unit, Center for Gender-specific Medicine Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Bellenghi
- Oncology Unit, Center for Gender-specific Medicine Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Matarrese
- Oncology Unit, Center for Gender-specific Medicine Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Gabriele
- Immunotherapy Unit, Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Salvioli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Via San Giacomo 12, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Walter Malorni
- Oncology Unit, Center for Gender-specific Medicine Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Roh J, Jeon Y, Lee AN, Lee SM, Kim Y, Sung CO, Park CJ, Hong JY, Yoon DH, Suh C, Huh J, Choi I, Park CS. The immune checkpoint molecule V-set Ig domain-containing 4 is an independent prognostic factor for multiple myeloma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:58122-58132. [PMID: 28938542 PMCID: PMC5601638 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) remains as an incurable disease, despite recent substantial improvements in treatment. Therefore, development of novel biomarkers for risk stratification and new therapeutic targets are imperative. One of the emerging treatments for MM is the immune checkpoint blockades. V-set Ig domain-containing 4 (VSIG4) is a lately studied B7-related immune checkpoint modulator. We assessed the VSIG4 expression in patients with MM and its prognostic impact. We analyzed 81 bone marrow and 66 extramedullary biopsy samples of MM patients using immunohistochemistry. VSIG4 mRNA expression data from the Multiple Myeloma Genomics Portal (MMGP) were analyzed to validate our results. The overall survival (OS) of the high VSIG4 expression group was significantly poorer than that of the low VSIG4 expression group (p = 0.046). VSIG4 expression was remained statistically significant after adjustment for revised international staging system (rISS) and Mayo stratification algorithm (mSMART) risk classification, respectively (p = 0.019 and 0.017). Corroborating results were also observed on analyses of VSIG4 expression in patients with extramedullary MM and external data from the MMGP. Our results suggest that VSIG4 expression in MM is an independent indicator of poor prognosis, implying a possible therapeutic target for immunotherapy for MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Roh
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Youkyoung Jeon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Advanced Research Center for Multiple Myeloma, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - A-Neum Lee
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Cell Dysfunction Research Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Min Lee
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - YeonMee Kim
- Department of Pathology, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Chang Ohk Sung
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan-Jeoung Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Yong Hong
- Department of Oncology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dok Hyun Yoon
- Department of Oncology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Cheolwon Suh
- Department of Oncology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jooryung Huh
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inhak Choi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Advanced Research Center for Multiple Myeloma, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Chan-Sik Park
- Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Cell Dysfunction Research Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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