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Martinez LM, Guzman ML. Understanding the interaction between leukaemia stem cells and their microenvironment to improve therapeutic approaches. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:273-282. [PMID: 37309573 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Although chemotherapeutic regimens can eliminate blasts in leukaemia patients, such therapies are associated with toxicity and often fail to eliminate all malignant cells resulting in disease relapse. Disease relapse has been attributed to the persistence of leukaemia cells in the bone marrow (BM) with the capacity to recapitulate disease; these cells are often referred to as leukaemia stem cells (LSCs). Although LSCs have distinct characteristics in terms of pathobiology and immunophenotype, they are still regulated by their interactions with the surrounding microenvironment. Thus, understanding the interaction between LSCs and their microenvironment is critical to identify effective therapies. To this end, there are numerous efforts to develop models to study such interactions. In this review, we will focus on the reciprocal interactions between LSCs and their milieu in the BM. Furthermore, we will highlight relevant therapies targeting these interactions and discuss some of the promising in vitro models designed to mimic such relationship. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro M Martinez
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Monica L Guzman
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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2
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Hua L, Yang N, Li Y, Huang K, Jiang X, Liu F, Yu Z, Chen J, Lai J, Du J, Zeng H. Metformin sensitizes AML cells to venetoclax through endoplasmic reticulum stress-CHOP pathway. Br J Haematol 2023; 202:971-984. [PMID: 37409755 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Venetoclax inhibits acute myeloid leukaemia by inhibiting BCL-2 targeting, and a combination regimen with venetoclax has been explored. Although these regimens produce better clinical results, the vast majority of patients still suffer from disease recurrence or primary drug resistance. Metformin has been demonstrated to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. However, whether it can synergize with venetoclax and the underlying mechanisms of metformin-induced apoptosis are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of metformin and venetoclax on the growth of AML cells in vitro and in vivo. In both Molm13 and THP-1 cell lines, metformin and venetoclax synergistically inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis of leukaemia cells. Most importantly, the combination of metformin and venetoclax treatment significantly increased the expression levels of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related marker CHOP, for example, in AML cell lines. Knockdown of CHOP markedly attenuated the metformin- and venetoclax-induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, the combination of metformin and venetoclax demonstrated prominent anti-leukaemia effects in xenograft models and bone marrow samples from AML patients. In summary, the combination of metformin and venetoclax showed enhanced anti-leukaemia activity with acceptable safety in AML patients, representing a new combinatorial strategy worth further clinical investigation to treat AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Hua
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Nianhui Yang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kexiu Huang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinya Jiang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fangshu Liu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi Yu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Lai
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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3
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Mayani H, Chávez-González A, Vázquez-Santillan K, Contreras J, Guzman ML. Cancer Stem Cells: Biology and Therapeutic Implications. Arch Med Res 2022; 53:770-784. [PMID: 36462951 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
It is well recognized that most cancers derive and progress from transformation and clonal expansion of a single cell that possesses stem cell properties, i.e., self-renewal and multilineage differentiation capacities. Such cancer stem cells (CSCs) are usually present at very low frequencies and possess properties that make them key players in tumor development. Indeed, besides having the ability to initiate tumor growth, CSCs drive tumor progression and metastatic dissemination, are resistant to most cancer drugs, and are responsible for cancer relapse. All of these features make CSCs attractive targets for the development of more effective oncologic treatments. In the present review article, we have summarized recent advances in the biology of CSCs, including their identification through their immunophenotype, and their physiology, both in vivo and in vitro. We have also analyzed some molecular markers that might become targets for developing new therapies aiming at hampering CSCs regeneration and cancer relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Mayani
- Unidad de Investigaci..n en Enfermedades Oncol..gicas, Hospital de Oncolog.ía, Centro M..dico Nacional SXXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Ciudad de M..xico, M..xico.
| | - Antonieta Chávez-González
- Unidad de Investigaci..n en Enfermedades Oncol..gicas, Hospital de Oncolog.ía, Centro M..dico Nacional SXXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Ciudad de M..xico, M..xico
| | | | - Jorge Contreras
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monica L Guzman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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4
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Barreto IV, Pessoa FMCDP, Machado CB, Pantoja LDC, Ribeiro RM, Lopes GS, Amaral de Moraes ME, de Moraes Filho MO, de Souza LEB, Burbano RMR, Khayat AS, Moreira-Nunes CA. Leukemic Stem Cell: A Mini-Review on Clinical Perspectives. Front Oncol 2022; 12:931050. [PMID: 35814466 PMCID: PMC9270022 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.931050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are known for their ability to proliferate and self-renew, thus being responsible for sustaining the hematopoietic system and residing in the bone marrow (BM). Leukemic stem cells (LSCs) are recognized by their stemness features such as drug resistance, self-renewal, and undifferentiated state. LSCs are also present in BM, being found in only 0.1%, approximately. This makes their identification and even their differentiation difficult since, despite the mutations, they are cells that still have many similarities with HSCs. Although the common characteristics, LSCs are heterogeneous cells and have different phenotypic characteristics, genetic mutations, and metabolic alterations. This whole set of alterations enables the cell to initiate the process of carcinogenesis, in addition to conferring drug resistance and providing relapses. The study of LSCs has been evolving and its application can help patients, where through its count as a biomarker, it can indicate a prognostic factor and reveal treatment results. The selection of a target to LSC therapy is fundamental. Ideally, the target chosen should be highly expressed by LSCs, highly selective, absence of expression on other cells, in particular HSC, and preferentially expressed by high numbers of patients. In view of the large number of similarities between LSCs and HSCs, it is not surprising that current treatment approaches are limited. In this mini review we seek to describe the immunophenotypic characteristics and mechanisms of resistance presented by LSCs, also approaching possible alternatives for the treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Valentim Barreto
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Flávia Melo Cunha de Pinho Pessoa
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Caio Bezerra Machado
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Laudreísa da Costa Pantoja
- Department of Pediatrics, Octávio Lobo Children’s Hospital, Belém, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oncology Research Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria Elisabete Amaral de Moraes
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Manoel Odorico de Moraes Filho
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - André Salim Khayat
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oncology Research Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | - Caroline Aquino Moreira-Nunes
- Department of Medicine, Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oncology Research Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
- Ceará State University, Northeast Biotechnology Network (RENORBIO), Fortaleza, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Caroline Aquino Moreira-Nunes,
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Hoang DH, Buettner R, Valerio M, Ghoda L, Zhang B, Kuo YH, Rosen ST, Burnett J, Marcucci G, Pullarkat V, Nguyen LXT. Arsenic Trioxide and Venetoclax Synergize against AML Progenitors by ROS Induction and Inhibition of Nrf2 Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6568. [PMID: 35743010 PMCID: PMC9223383 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax (VEN) in combination with hypomethylating agents induces disease remission in patients with de novo AML, however, most patients eventually relapse. AML relapse is attributed to the persistence of drug-resistant leukemia stem cells (LSCs). LSCs need to maintain low intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Arsenic trioxide (ATO) induces apoptosis via upregulation of ROS-induced stress to DNA-repair mechanisms. Elevated ROS levels can trigger the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway to counteract the effects of high ROS levels. We hypothesized that ATO and VEN synergize in targeting LSCs through ROS induction by ATO and the known inhibitory effect of VEN on the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway. Using cell fractionation, immunoprecipitation, RNA-knockdown, and fluorescence assays we found that ATO activated nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and increased transcription of antioxidant enzymes, thereby attenuating the induction of ROS by ATO. VEN disrupted ATO-induced Nrf2 translocation and augmented ATO-induced ROS, thus enhancing apoptosis in LSCs. Using metabolic assays and electron microscopy, we found that the ATO+VEN combination decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondria size, fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation, all of which enhanced apoptosis of LSCs derived from both VEN-sensitive and VEN-resistant AML primary cells. Our results indicate that ATO and VEN cooperate in inducing apoptosis of LSCs through potentiation of ROS induction, suggesting ATO+VEN is a promising regimen for treatment of VEN-sensitive and -resistant AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinh Hoa Hoang
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Ralf Buettner
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Melissa Valerio
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Lucy Ghoda
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Bin Zhang
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Ya-Huei Kuo
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Steven T. Rosen
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - John Burnett
- Center for Gene Therapy, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA;
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Vinod Pullarkat
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
| | - Le Xuan Truong Nguyen
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, Hematology Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; (D.H.H.); (R.B.); (M.V.); (L.G.); (B.Z.); (Y.-H.K.); (S.T.R.); (G.M.)
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6
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Hoang DH, Morales C, Rodriguez IR, Valerio M, Guo J, Chen M, Wu X, Horne D, Gandhi V, Chen LS, Zhang B, Pullarkat V, Rosen ST, Marcucci G, Buettner R, Nguyen LXT. Synergy of Venetoclax and 8-Chloro-Adenosine in AML: The Interplay of rRNA Inhibition and Fatty Acid Metabolism. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1446. [PMID: 35326597 PMCID: PMC8946614 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
It is known that 8-chloro-adenosine (8-Cl-Ado) is a novel RNA-directed nucleoside analog that targets leukemic stem cells (LSCs). In a phase I clinical trial with 8-Cl-Ado in patients with refractory or relapsed (R/R) AML, we observed encouraging but short-lived clinical responses, likely due to intrinsic mechanisms of LSC resistance. LSC homeostasis depends on amino acid-driven and/or fatty acid oxidation (FAO)-driven oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) for survival. We recently reported that 8-Cl-Ado and the BCL-2-selective inhibitor venetoclax (VEN) synergistically inhibit FAO and OXPHOS in LSCs, thereby suppressing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) growth in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we report that 8-Cl-Ado inhibits ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis through the downregulation of transcription initiation factor TIF-IA that is associated with increasing levels of p53. Paradoxically, 8-Cl-Ado-induced p53 increased FAO and OXPHOS, thereby self-limiting the activity of 8-Cl-Ado on LSCs. Since VEN inhibits amino acid-driven OXPHOS, the addition of VEN significantly enhanced the activity of 8-Cl-Ado by counteracting the self-limiting effect of p53 on FAO and OXPHOS. Overall, our results indicate that VEN and 8-Cl-Ado can cooperate in targeting rRNA synthesis and OXPHOS and in decreasing the survival of the LSC-enriched cell population, suggesting the VEN/8-Cl-Ado regimen as a promising therapeutic approach for patients with R/R AML.
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Nirachonkul W, Ogonoki S, Thumvijit T, Chiampanichayakul S, Panyajai P, Anuchapreeda S, Tima S, Chiampanichayakul S. CD123-Targeted Nano-Curcumin Molecule Enhances Cytotoxic Efficacy in Leukemic Stem Cells. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2021; 11:nano11112974. [PMID: 34835741 PMCID: PMC8620973 DOI: 10.3390/nano11112974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) is a disease with a high rate of relapse and drug resistance due to the remaining leukemic stem cells (LSCs). Therefore, LSCs are specific targets for the treatment of leukemia. CD123 is specifically expressed on LSCs and performs as a specific marker. Curcumin is the main active compound of a natural product with low toxicity for humans. It has been reported to inhibit leukemic cell growth. However, curcumin is practically insoluble in water and has low bioavailability. In this study, we aimed to formulate curcumin nanoparticles and conjugate with the anti-CD123 to overcome the low water solubility and improve the targeting of LSCs. The cytotoxicity of both curcumin-loaded PLGA/poloxamer nanoparticles (Cur-NPs) and anti-CD123-curcumin-loaded PLGA/poloxamer nanoparticles (anti-CD123-Cur-NPs) were examined in KG-1a cells. The results showed that Cur-NPs and Cur-NPs-CD123 exhibited cytotoxic effects on KG-1a cells with the IC50 values of 74.20 ± 6.71 and 41.45 ± 5.49 µM, respectively. Moreover, anti-CD123-Cur-NPs induced higher apoptosis than Cur-NPs. The higher uptake of anti-CD123-Cur-NPs in KG-1a cells was confirmed by using flow cytometry. In conclusion, the anti-CD123-Cur-NPs formulation improved curcumin's bioavailability and specific targeting of LSCs, suggesting that it is a promising drug delivery system for improving the therapeutic efficacy against AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wariya Nirachonkul
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.N.); (P.P.); (S.A.); (S.T.)
| | - Siriporn Ogonoki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Tarika Thumvijit
- Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | | | - Pawaret Panyajai
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.N.); (P.P.); (S.A.); (S.T.)
| | - Songyot Anuchapreeda
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.N.); (P.P.); (S.A.); (S.T.)
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Singkome Tima
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.N.); (P.P.); (S.A.); (S.T.)
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sawitree Chiampanichayakul
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.N.); (P.P.); (S.A.); (S.T.)
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-5394-9237
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Herbrich S, Baran N, Cai T, Weng C, Aitken MJL, Post SM, Henderson J, Shi C, Richard-Carpentier G, Sauvageau G, Baggerly K, Al-Atrash G, Davis RE, Daver N, Zha D, Konopleva M. Overexpression of CD200 is a Stem Cell-Specific Mechanism of Immune Evasion in AML. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-002968. [PMID: 34326171 PMCID: PMC8323398 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stem cells (LSCs) are capable of surviving current standard chemotherapy and are the likely source of deadly, relapsed disease. While stem cell transplant serves as proof-of-principle that AML LSCs can be eliminated by the immune system, the translation of existing immunotherapies to AML has been met with limited success. Consequently, understanding and exploiting the unique immune-evasive mechanisms of AML LSCs is critical. METHODS Analysis of stem cell datasets and primary patient samples revealed CD200 as a putative stem cell-specific immune checkpoint overexpressed in AML LSCs. Isogenic cell line models of CD200 expression were employed to characterize the interaction of CD200+ AML with various immune cell subsets both in vitro and in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)-humanized mouse models. CyTOF and RNA-sequencing were performed on humanized mice to identify novel mechanisms of CD200-mediated immunosuppression. To clinically translate these findings, we developed a fully humanized CD200 antibody (IgG1) that removed the immunosuppressive signal by blocking interaction with the CD200 receptor while also inducing a potent Fc-mediated response. Therapeutic efficacy of the CD200 antibody was evaluated using both humanized mice and patient-derived xenograft models. RESULTS Our results demonstrate that CD200 is selectively overexpressed in AML LSCs and is broadly immunosuppressive by impairing cytokine secretion in both innate and adaptive immune cell subsets. In a PBMC-humanized mouse model, CD200+ leukemia progressed rapidly, escaping elimination by T cells, compared with CD200- AML. T cells from mice with CD200+ AML were characterized by an abundance of metabolically quiescent CD8+ central and effector memory cells. Mechanistically, CD200 expression on AML cells significantly impaired OXPHOS metabolic activity in T cells from healthy donors. Importantly, CD200 antibody therapy could eliminate disease in the presence of graft-versus-leukemia in immune competent mice and could significantly improve the efficacy of low-intensity azacitidine/venetoclax chemotherapy in immunodeficient hosts. CONCLUSIONS Overexpression of CD200 is a stem cell-specific marker that contributes to immunosuppression in AML by impairing effector cell metabolism and function. CD200 antibody therapy is capable of simultaneously reducing CD200-mediated suppression while also engaging macrophage activity. This study lays the groundwork for CD200-targeted therapeutic strategies to eliminate LSCs and prevent AML relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Herbrich
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Tianyu Cai
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Connie Weng
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marisa J L Aitken
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sean M Post
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jared Henderson
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chunhua Shi
- Oncology Research for Biologics and Immunotherapy Translation (ORBIT) platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Guy Sauvageau
- University of Montreal Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Keith Baggerly
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gheath Al-Atrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - R Eric Davis
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dongxing Zha
- Oncology Research for Biologics and Immunotherapy Translation (ORBIT) platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Niu LT, Wang YQ, Wong CCL, Gao SX, Mo XD, Huang XJ. Targeting IFN-γ-inducible lysosomal thiol reductase overcomes chemoresistance in AML through regulating the ROS-mediated mitochondrial damage. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101159. [PMID: 34252711 PMCID: PMC8319687 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
GILT is upregulated in chemoresistant LSC-enriched CD34+ progenitor cells. Inhibition of GILT in AML cells sensitized them to Ara-C treatment through ROS-mediated mitochondrial damage and apoptosis. PI3K/Akt/NRF2 pathway inhibition is critical for the intracellular oxidative state in GILT-suppression AML cells after Ara-C treatment. GILT expression is related to a poor prognosis in AML patients.
The persistence of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) is one of the leading causes of chemoresistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). To explore the factors important in LSC-mediated resistance, we use mass spectrometry to screen the factors related to LSC chemoresistance and defined IFN-γ-inducible lysosomal thiol reductase (GILT) as a candidate. We found that the GILT expression was upregulated in chemoresistant CD34+ AML cells. Loss of function studies demonstrated that silencing of GILT in AML cells sensitized them to Ara-C treatment both in vitro and in vivo. Further mechanistic findings revealed that the ROS-mediated mitochondrial damage plays a pivotal role in inducing apoptosis of GILT-inhibited AML cells after Ara-C treatment. The inactivation of PI3K/Akt/ nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway, causing reduced generation of antioxidants such as SOD2 and leading to a shifted ratio of GSH/GSSG to the oxidized form, contributed to the over-physiological oxidative status in the absence of GILT. The prognostic value of GILT was also validated in AML patients. Taken together, our work demonstrated that the inhibition of GILT increases AML chemo-sensitivity through elevating ROS level and induce oxidative mitochondrial damage-mediated apoptosis, and inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/NRF2 pathway enhances the intracellular oxidative state by disrupting redox homeostasis, providing a potentially effective way to overcome chemoresistance of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ting Niu
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Yu-Qing Wang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, 100044, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871
| | - Catherine C L Wong
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871,; Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China; Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Shuai-Xin Gao
- Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Mo
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Huang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, 100044, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871,.
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10
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Mirgh S, Sharma A, Shaikh MRMA, Kadian K, Agrawal N, Khushoo V, Mehta P, Ahmed R, Bhurani D. Hypomethylating agents+venetoclax induction therapy in acute myeloid leukemia unfit for intensive chemotherapy - novel avenues for lesser venetoclax duration and patients with baseline infections from a developing country. Am J Blood Res 2021; 11:290-302. [PMID: 34322294 PMCID: PMC8303019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Both elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and those with baseline infections, when treated with intensive chemotherapy, are associated with high induction mortality. We report 24 patients (16-newly-diagnosed, 8-relapsed/refractory) with AML deemed unfit for intensive chemotherapy (by virtue of age >60 years, ECOG-PS 3-4, or those with non-resolving infections at baseline), treated with azacytidine-venetoclax combination as induction chemotherapy. Median follow-up of the study group was 8 months. The overall complete remission (CR)+CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) rate was 58.3%. 1-year progression-free survival and overall survival of the whole cohort was 44.4% and 55.8%, respectively. On subgroup analysis, newly-diagnosed AML (p=0.05), intermediate-risk cytogenetics (p=0.007), and HMA-naïve (p=0.05) patients had a significantly better outcome. AML patients with baseline infections (versus without infections) treated with azacytidine-venetoclax induction, have lesser induction mortality (compared with historic intensive chemotherapy) with equivalent response rates. A detailed analysis amongst cohorts with different venetoclax durations revealed that, shorter duration (<21 days) venetoclax (versus 21-28 days duration) in induction therapy leads to similar response rates and similar severity of myelosuppression, however, with early count recovery and lesser duration of intravenous antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeet Mirgh
- Present address: Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, ACTREC, Mumbai and Homi Bhabha National InstituteMumbai, India
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11
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Buettner R, Nguyen LXT, Morales C, Chen MH, Wu X, Chen LS, Hoang DH, Hernandez Vargas S, Pullarkat V, Gandhi V, Marcucci G, Rosen ST. Targeting the metabolic vulnerability of acute myeloid leukemia blasts with a combination of venetoclax and 8-chloro-adenosine. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:70. [PMID: 33902674 PMCID: PMC8074444 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01076-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background BCL‐2 inhibition through venetoclax (VEN) targets acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blast cells and leukemic stem cells (LSCs). Although VEN-containing regimens yield 60–70% clinical response rates, the vast majority of patients inevitably suffer disease relapse, likely because of the persistence of drug-resistant LSCs. We previously reported preclinical activity of the ribonucleoside analog 8-chloro-adenosine (8-Cl-Ado) against AML blast cells and LSCs. Moreover, our ongoing phase I clinical trial of 8-Cl-Ado in patients with refractory/relapsed AML demonstrates encouraging clinical benefit. Of note, LSCs uniquely depend on amino acid-driven and/or fatty acid oxidation (FAO)-driven oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) for survival. VEN inhibits OXPHOS in LSCs, which eventually may escape the antileukemic activity of this drug. FAO is activated in LSCs isolated from patients with relapsed AML.
Methods Using AML cell lines and LSC-enriched blast cells from pre-treatment AML patients, we evaluated the effects of 8-Cl-Ado, VEN and the 8-Cl-Ado/VEN combination on fatty acid metabolism, glycolysis and OXPHOS using liquid scintillation counting, a Seahorse XF Analyzer and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Western blotting was used to validate results from GSEA. HPLC was used to measure intracellular accumulation of 8-Cl-ATP, the cytotoxic metabolite of 8-Cl-Ado. To quantify drug synergy, we created combination index plots using CompuSyn software. The log-rank Kaplan–Meier survival test was used to compare the survival distributions of the different treatment groups in a xenograft mouse model of AML. Results We here report that VEN and 8-Cl-Ado synergistically inhibited in vitro growth of AML cells. Furthermore, immunodeficient mice engrafted with MV4-11-Luc AML cells and treated with the combination of VEN plus 8-Cl-Ado had a significantly longer survival than mice treated with either drugs alone (p ≤ 0.006). We show here that 8-Cl-Ado in the LSC-enriched population suppressed FAO by downregulating gene expression of proteins involved in this pathway and significantly inhibited the oxygen consumption rate (OCR), an indicator of OXPHOS. By combining 8-Cl-Ado with VEN, we observed complete inhibition of OCR, suggesting this drug combination cooperates in targeting OXPHOS and the metabolic homeostasis of AML cells. Conclusion Taken together, the results suggest that 8-Cl-Ado enhances the antileukemic activity of VEN and that this combination represents a promising therapeutic regimen for treatment of AML. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13045-021-01076-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Buettner
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
| | - Le Xuan Truong Nguyen
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
| | - Corey Morales
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Min-Hsuan Chen
- Integrative Genomics Core, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Xiwei Wu
- Integrative Genomics Core, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Lisa S Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dinh Hoa Hoang
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Servando Hernandez Vargas
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vinod Pullarkat
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Varsha Gandhi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Steven T Rosen
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Kaplan CRB, 1026, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
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12
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Abstract
T cell immunoglobulin and mucin protein 3 (Tim-3) is an immune checkpoint and plays a vital role in immune responses during acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Targeting Tim-3 kills two birds with one stone by balancing the immune system and eliminating leukemia stem cells (LSCs) in AML. These functions make Tim-3 a potential target for curing AML. This review mainly discusses the roles of Tim-3 in the immune system in AML and as an AML LSC marker, which sheds new light on the role of Tim-3 in AML immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiding Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China.,Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Hematology and BMT Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengzhen Wang
- Department of Hematology and BMT Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Hematology and BMT Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, International Cancer Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Hematological Malignancies, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Hematology and BMT Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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13
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Man Y, Yao X, Yang T, Wang Y. Hematopoietic Stem Cell Niche During Homeostasis, Malignancy, and Bone Marrow Transplantation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:621214. [PMID: 33553181 PMCID: PMC7862549 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.621214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are strictly regulated by numerous cellular components and cytokines in the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. Several cell types that regulate HSC niche have been identified, including both non-hematopoietic cells and HSC-derived cells. Specific changes in the niche composition can result in hematological malignancies. Furthermore, processes such as homing, proliferation, and differentiation of HSCs are strongly controlled by the BM niche and have been reported to be related to the success of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Single-cell sequencing and in vivo imaging are powerful techniques to study BM microenvironment in hematological malignancies and after HSCT. In this review, we discuss how different components of the BM niche, particularly non-hematopoietic and hematopoietic cells, regulate normal hematopoiesis, and changes in the BM niche in leukemia and after HSCT. We believe that this comprehensive review will provide clues for further research on improving HSCT efficiency and exploring potential therapeutic targets for leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Man
- Department of Hematology, National Key Clinical Specialty of Hematology, Yunnan Blood Disease Clinical Medical Center, Yunnan Blood Disease Hospital, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiangmei Yao
- Department of Hematology, National Key Clinical Specialty of Hematology, Yunnan Blood Disease Clinical Medical Center, Yunnan Blood Disease Hospital, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Tonghua Yang
- Department of Hematology, National Key Clinical Specialty of Hematology, Yunnan Blood Disease Clinical Medical Center, Yunnan Blood Disease Hospital, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yajie Wang
- Department of Hematology, National Key Clinical Specialty of Hematology, Yunnan Blood Disease Clinical Medical Center, Yunnan Blood Disease Hospital, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China.,Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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14
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Since its approval in November 2018, venetoclax with a hypomethylating agent backbone has shown promising efficacy for older, newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients who are unfit for standard intensive induction chemotherapy. This regimen is well tolerated, allows for deep and durable responses and may be increasing the prevalence of the disease. Although there is justifiable excitement, it remains to be seen to what extent venetoclax-based regimens, as they are currently administered, will have a long-term impact on the treatment of AML. This review aims to evaluate the strengths of the regimen that deserve enthusiasm as well as its shortcomings, which should be viewed as opportunities for improvement. RECENT FINDINGS The clinical efficacy as well as the novel mechanism of venetoclax with hypomethylating agents will be described here. SUMMARY Venetoclax with hypomethylating agents do not represent the holy grail for AML, but this regimen is a promising step in the right direction, and proof of principle that a low-intensity therapy can have a major impact on this disease.
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15
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Abstract
Although treatment strategies for pediatric leukemia have improved overall survival rates in the recent past, relapse rates in certain subgroups such as infant leukemia remain unacceptably high. Despite undergoing extensive chemotherapy designed to target the rapidly proliferating leukemia cells, many of these children experience relapse. In refractory leukemia, the existence of cell populations with stemness characteristics, termed leukemia stem cells (LSCs), which remain quiescent and subsequently replenish the blast population, has been described. A significant body of evidence exists, derived largely from xenograft models of adult acute myeloid leukemia, to support the idea that LSCs may play a fundamental role in refractory disease. In addition, clinical studies have also linked LSCs with increased minimal residual disease, higher relapse rate, and decreased survival rates in these patients. Recently, a number of reports have addressed effective ways to utilize new-generation genomic sequencing and transcriptomic analyses to identify targeted therapeutic agents aimed at LSCs, while sparing normal hematopoietic stem cells. These data underscore the value of timely translation of knowledge from adult studies to the unique molecular and physiological characteristics seen in pediatric leukemia. We aim to summarize this article in the rapidly expanding field of stem cell biology in hematopoietic malignancies, focusing particularly on relevant preclinical models and novel targeted therapeutics, and their applicability to childhood leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aru Narendran
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplant, POETIC Laboratory for Novel Therapeutics Discovery in Pediatric Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada
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16
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Depreter B, Weening KE, Vandepoele K, Essand M, De Moerloose B, Themeli M, Cloos J, Hanekamp D, Moors I, D'hont I, Denys B, Uyttebroeck A, Van Damme A, Dedeken L, Snauwaert S, Goetgeluk G, De Munter S, Kerre T, Vandekerckhove B, Lammens T, Philippé J. TARP is an immunotherapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia expressed in the leukemic stem cell compartment. Haematologica 2019; 105:1306-1316. [PMID: 31371409 PMCID: PMC7193481 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.222612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapeutic strategies targeting the rare leukemic stem cell compartment might provide salvage to the high relapse rates currently observed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We applied gene expression profiling for comparison of leukemic blasts and leukemic stem cells with their normal counterparts. Here, we show that the T-cell receptor γ chain alternate reading frame protein (TARP) is over-expressed in de novo pediatric (n=13) and adult (n=17) AML sorted leukemic stem cells and blasts compared to hematopoietic stem cells and normal myeloblasts (15 healthy controls). Moreover, TARP expression was significantly associated with a fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-3 internal tandem duplication in pediatric AML. TARP overexpression was confirmed in AML cell lines (n=9), and was found to be absent in B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (n=5) and chronic myeloid leukemia (n=1). Sequencing revealed that both a classical TARP transcript, as described in breast and prostate adenocarcinoma, and an AML-specific alternative TARP transcript, were present. Protein expression levels mostly matched transcript levels. TARP was shown to reside in the cytoplasmic compartment and showed sporadic endoplasmic reticulum co-localization. TARP-T-cell receptor engineered cytotoxic T-cells in vitro killed AML cell lines and patient leukemic cells co-expressing TARP and HLA-A*0201. In conclusion, TARP qualifies as a relevant target for immunotherapeutic T-cell therapy in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Depreter
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karin E Weening
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karl Vandepoele
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Magnus Essand
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maria Themeli
- Department of Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline Cloos
- Department of Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Diana Hanekamp
- Department of Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ine Moors
- Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Inge D'hont
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara Denys
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Uyttebroeck
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Louvain, Belgium
| | - An Van Damme
- Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, University Hospital Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurence Dedeken
- Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sylvia Snauwaert
- Department of Hematology, AZ Sint-Jan Hospital Bruges, Bruges, Belgium
| | - Glenn Goetgeluk
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn De Munter
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tessa Kerre
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Vandekerckhove
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim Lammens
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium .,Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Philippé
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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17
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Lo TH, Abadir E, Gasiorowski RE, Kabani K, Ramesh M, Orellana D, Fromm PD, Kupresanin F, Newman E, Cunningham I, Hart DNJ, Silveira PA, Clark GJ. Examination of CD302 as a potential therapeutic target for acute myeloid leukemia. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216368. [PMID: 31075107 PMCID: PMC6510432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of adult acute leukemia with ~20,000 new cases yearly. The disease develops in people of all ages, but is more prominent in the elderly, who due to limited treatment options, have poor overall survival rates. Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) targeting specific cell surface molecules have proven to be safe and effective in different haematological malignancies. However, AML target molecules are currently limited so discovery of new targets would be highly beneficial to patients. We examined the C-type lectin receptor CD302 as a potential therapeutic target for AML due to its selective expression in myeloid immune populations. In a cohort of 33 AML patients with varied morphological and karyotypic classifications, 88% were found to express CD302 on the surface of blasts and 80% on the surface of CD34+ CD38- population enriched with leukemic stem cells. A mAb targeting human CD302 was effective in mediating antibody dependent cell cytotoxicity and was internalised, making it amenable to toxin conjugation. Targeting CD302 with antibody limited in vivo engraftment of the leukemic cell line HL-60 in NOD/SCID mice. While CD302 was expressed in a hepatic cell line, HepG2, this molecule was not detected on the surface of HepG2, nor could HepG2 be killed using a CD302 antibody-drug conjugate. Expression was however found on the surface of haematopoietic stem cells suggesting that targeting CD302 would be most effective prior to haematopoietic transplantation. These studies provide the foundation for examining CD302 as a potential therapeutic target for AML.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/pharmacology
- Blast Crisis/drug therapy
- Blast Crisis/metabolism
- Blast Crisis/pathology
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Female
- HL-60 Cells
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Hep G2 Cells
- Humans
- Lectins, C-Type/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Mice, SCID
- Middle Aged
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/metabolism
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology
- Receptors, Cell Surface/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsun-Ho Lo
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Edward Abadir
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robin E. Gasiorowski
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karieshma Kabani
- Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Murari Ramesh
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel Orellana
- Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Phillip D. Fromm
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona Kupresanin
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Newman
- Department of Haematology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ilona Cunningham
- Department of Haematology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Derek N. J. Hart
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Pablo A. Silveira
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina J. Clark
- Dendritic Cell Research, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail:
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18
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Joshi K, Zhang L, Breslin S.j. P, Zhang J. Leukemia Stem Cells in the Pathogenesis, Progression, and Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-7342-8_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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19
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Xu DD, Wang Y, Zhou PJ, Qin SR, Zhang R, Zhang Y, Xue X, Wang J, Wang X, Chen HC, Wang X, Pan YW, Zhang L, Yan HZ, Liu QY, Liu Z, Chen SH, Chen HY, Wang YF. The IGF2/IGF1R/Nanog Signaling Pathway Regulates the Proliferation of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cells. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:687. [PMID: 30013477 PMCID: PMC6036281 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive disease characterized by clonal proliferation and differentiation into immature hematopoietic cells of dysfunctional myeloid precursors. Accumulating evidence shows that CD34+CD38- leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are responsible for drug resistance, metastasis, and relapse of leukemia. In this study, we found that Nanog, a transcription factor in stem cells, is significantly overexpressed in CD34+ populations from patients with acute myeloid leukemia and in LSCs from leukemia cell lines. Our data demonstrate that the knockdown of Nanog inhibited proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. Moreover, Nanog silencing suppressed the leukemogenesis of LSCs in mice. In addition, we found that these functions of Nanog were regulated by the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) signaling pathway. Nanog overexpression rescued the colony formation ability of LSCs treated with picropodophyllin (PPP), an IGF1R inhibitor. By contrast, knockdown of Nanog abolished the effects of IGF2 on the colony formation ability of these LSCs. These findings suggest that the IGF2/IGF1R/Nanog signaling pathway plays a critical role in LSC proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Dan Xu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Food and Drug Vocational College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng-Jun Zhou
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Rong Qin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Xue Xue
- Guangdong Food and Drug Vocational College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Guangdong Food and Drug Vocational College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Guangdong Food and Drug Vocational College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Ce Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, School of Basic Course, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Wei Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Zhao Yan
- Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Qiu-Ying Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Su-Hong Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Food and Drug Vocational College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Yuan Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, School of Basic Course, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Fei Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Perez DR, Smagley Y, Garcia M, Carter MB, Evangelisti A, Matlawska-Wasowska K, Winter SS, Sklar LA, Chigaev A. Cyclic AMP efflux inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents for leukemia. Oncotarget 2017; 7:33960-82. [PMID: 27129155 PMCID: PMC5085131 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptotic evasion is a hallmark of cancer. We propose that some cancers may evade cell death by regulating 3′-5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which is associated with pro-apoptotic signaling. We hypothesize that leukemic cells possess mechanisms that efflux cAMP from the cytoplasm, thus protecting them from apoptosis. Accordingly, cAMP efflux inhibition should result in: cAMP accumulation, activation of cAMP-dependent downstream signaling, viability loss, and apoptosis. We developed a novel assay to assess cAMP efflux and performed screens to identify inhibitors. In an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) model, several identified compounds reduced cAMP efflux, appropriately modulated pathways that are responsive to cAMP elevation (cAMP-responsive element-binding protein phosphorylation, and deactivation of Very Late Antigen-4 integrin), and induced mitochondrial depolarization and caspase activation. Blocking adenylyl cyclase activity was sufficient to reduce effects of the most potent compounds. These compounds also decreased cAMP efflux and viability of B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) cell lines and primary patient samples, but not of normal primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Our data suggest that cAMP efflux is a functional feature that could be therapeutically targeted in leukemia. Furthermore, because some of the identified drugs are currently used for treating other illnesses, this work creates an opportunity for repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique R Perez
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Yelena Smagley
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Matthew Garcia
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Mark B Carter
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Annette Evangelisti
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ksenia Matlawska-Wasowska
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Stuart S Winter
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Larry A Sklar
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Alexandre Chigaev
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,University of New Mexico Center for Molecular Discovery, Albuquerque, NM, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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21
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Abstract
Venetoclax is an oral drug with an excellent side-effect profile that has the potential to revolutionize acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy in two areas. Venetoclax-based combination therapies could be a bridge to hematopoietic cell transplant with curative intent for patients with refractory/relapsed AML, and venetoclax-based therapy could provide meaningful survival prolongation for older patients with AML who are not candidates for more aggressive therapies. Cancer Discov; 6(10); 1082-3. ©2016 AACR.See related article by Konopleva and colleagues, p. 1106.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod A Pullarkat
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California.
| | - Edward M Newman
- Department Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California
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22
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Chen J, Wei H, Cheng J, Xie B, Wang B, Yi J, Tian B, Liu Z, Wang F, Zhang Z. Characteristics of doxorubicin-selected multidrug-resistant human leukemia HL-60 cells with tolerance to arsenic trioxide and contribution of leukemia stem cells. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:1255-1262. [PMID: 29399180 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study selected and characterized a multidrug-resistant HL-60 human acute promyelocytic leukemia cell line, HL-60/RS, by exposure to stepwise incremental doses of doxorubicin. The drug-resistant HL-60/RS cells exhibited 85.68-fold resistance to doxorubicin and were cross-resistant to other chemotherapeutics, including cisplatin, daunorubicin, cytarabine, vincristine and etoposide. The cells over-expressed the transporters P-glycoprotein, multidrug-resistance-related protein 1 and breast-cancer-resistance protein, encoded by the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC)B1, ABCC1 and ABCG2 genes, respectively. Unlike other recognized chemoresistant leukemia cell lines, HL-60/RS cells were also strongly cross-resistant to arsenic trioxide. The proportion of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) increased synchronously with increased of drug resistance in the doxorubicin-induced HL-60 cell population. The present study confirmed that doxorubicin-induced HL-60 cells exhibited multidrug-resistance and high arsenic-trioxide resistance. Drug-resistance in these cells may be due to surviving chemoresistant LSCs in the HL-60 population, which have been subjected to long and consecutive selection by doxorubicin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Hulai Wei
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Bei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Bei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Juan Yi
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Baoying Tian
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Zhuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Feifei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Zhewen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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23
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Buontempo F, McCubrey JA, Orsini E, Ruzzene M, Cappellini A, Lonetti A, Evangelisti C, Chiarini F, Evangelisti C, Barata JT, Martelli AM. Therapeutic targeting of CK2 in acute and chronic leukemias. Leukemia 2017; 32:1-10. [PMID: 28951560 PMCID: PMC5770594 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2017.301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
CK2 is a ubiquitously expressed, constitutively active Ser/Thr protein kinase, which is considered the most pleiotropic protein kinase in the human kinome. Such a pleiotropy explains the involvement of CK2 in many cellular events. However, its predominant roles are stimulation of cell growth and prevention of apoptosis. High levels of CK2 messenger RNA and protein are associated with CK2 pathological functions in human cancers. Over the last decade, basic and translational studies have provided evidence of CK2 as a pivotal molecule driving the growth of different blood malignancies. CK2 overexpression has been demonstrated in nearly all the types of hematological cancers, including acute and chronic leukemias, where CK2 is a key regulator of signaling networks critical for cell proliferation, survival and drug resistance. The findings that emerged from these studies suggest that CK2 could be a valuable therapeutic target in leukemias and supported the initiation of clinical trials using CK2 antagonists. In this review, we summarize the recent advances on the understanding of the signaling pathways involved in CK2 inhibition-mediated effects with a particular emphasis on the combinatorial use of CK2 inhibitors as novel therapeutic strategies for treating both acute and chronic leukemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Buontempo
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - J A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - E Orsini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Ruzzene
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Cappellini
- Department of Human, Social and Health Sciences, University of Cassino, Cassino, Italy
| | - A Lonetti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Evangelisti
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Bologna, Italy.,Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Chiarini
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Bologna, Italy.,Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Evangelisti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - J T Barata
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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24
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Allan JN, Roboz GJ, Askin G, Ritchie E, Scandura J, Christos P, Hassane DC, Guzman ML. CD25 expression and outcomes in older patients with acute myelogenous leukemia treated with plerixafor and decitabine. Leuk Lymphoma 2017; 59:821-828. [PMID: 28718760 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2017.1352089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We investigated CD25 expression in older (≥60 years) patients with new acute myelogenous leukemia treated with decitabine and plerixafor. Patients resistant to therapy or survival ≤1 year had significantly higher percentages of CD25pos myeloid blasts in baseline bone marrow. CD25pos patients had an increased odds of resistance compared to CD25neg patients (p = .015). In univariate analysis, we found CD25pos patients had inferior survival compared to CD25neg (p = .002). In patients with intermediate risk cytogenetics, CD25pos status stratified patients associating with inferior survival (p = .002). In multivariable analysis, CD25 and TP53 mutations trended towards predicting remission to therapy but were not predictive of survival. Only remission status, ASXL1 and TET2 mutations were found to independently predict overall survival (OS). We conclude CD25 expression identifies patients at risk for resistance to hypomethylating chemotherapy but does not independently predict OS in an older AML population treated with decitabine and plerixafor.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Allan
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Gail J Roboz
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Gulce Askin
- b Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Ellen Ritchie
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Joseph Scandura
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Paul Christos
- b Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Duane C Hassane
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Monica L Guzman
- a Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Weill Cornell Medicine , New York , NY , USA
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25
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Kumar B, Kalvala A, Chu S, Rosen S, Forman SJ, Marcucci G, Chen CC, Pullarkat V. Antileukemic activity and cellular effects of the antimalarial agent artesunate in acute myeloid leukemia. Leuk Res 2017. [PMID: 28646646 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The artimisinins are a class of antimalarial compounds whose antiparasitic activity is mediated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Herein, we report that among the artimisinins, artesunate (ARTS), an orally bioavailable compound has the most potent antileukemic activity in AML models and primary patients' blasts. ARTS was most cytotoxic to the FLT3-ITD+ AML MV4-11 and MOLM-13 cells (IC50 values of 1.1 and 0.82μM respectively), inhibited colony formation in primary AML and MDS cells and augmented cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutics. ARTS lowered cellular BCL-2 level via ROS induction and increased the cytotoxicity of the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax (ABT-199). ARTS treatment led to cellular and mitochondrial ROS accumulation, double stranded DNA damage, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and induction of the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptotic cascade in AML cell lines. The antileukemic activity of ARTS was further confirmed in MV4-11 and FLT3-ITD+ primary AML cell xenografts as well as MLL-AF9 syngeneic murine AML model where ARTS treatment resulted in significant survival prolongation of treated mice compared to control. Our results demonstrate the potent preclinical antileukemic activity of ARTS as well as its potential for a rapid transition to a clinical trial either alone or in combination with conventional chemotherapy or BCL-2 inhibitor, for treatment of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijender Kumar
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Leukemia Research, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Arjun Kalvala
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Leukemia Research, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Su Chu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Leukemia Research, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Steven Rosen
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Leukemia Research, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ching-Cheng Chen
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Leukemia Research, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Vinod Pullarkat
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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26
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Leong KH, Mahdzir MA, Din MFM, Awang K, Tanaka Y, Kulkeaw K, Ishitani T, Sugiyama D. Induction of intrinsic apoptosis in leukaemia stem cells and in vivo zebrafish model by betulonic acid isolated from Walsura pinnata Hassk (Meliaceae). Phytomedicine 2017; 26:11-21. [PMID: 28257660 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2016.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leukaemia stem cells (LSC) have been associated with disease relapse and chemotherapy resistance. Betulonic acid (BA), a pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenoid, was reported to exhibit cytotoxicity toward various cancer cells and to be capable of inducing intrinsic apoptosis in solid tumours. However, the in vitro and in vivo apoptotic effects of BA against LSC remain unknown. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE We aimed to determine whether BA isolated from bark of Walsura pinnata Hassk (Meliaceae) has pro-apoptotic effects on LSC in in vitro and in vivo models. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS The population of high purity LSC was isolated from the Kasumi-1 cell line using magnetic sorting and characterised by flow cytometry. Cell viability was assessed using the MTS assay to examine dose- and time-dependent effects. The colony formation assay was performed in MethoCult® H4435 enriched media. Apoptosis was analysed using Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, mitochondrial transmembrane potential was studied using JC-1 staining, and expression of apoptosis related genes (BAX, Bcl-2 and survivin) was evaluated by real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Caspase 3/7 and 9 activities were monitored through Promega Caspase-Glo® over a period of 24h. The in vivo antileukaemia activity was evaluated using LSC xenotransplanted zebrafish, observed for DNA fragmentation from apoptosis by TUNEL assay. RESULTS BA maintained its potency against the LSC population in comparison to parental Kasumi-1 cells (fold differences ≤ 1.94) over various treatment time points and significantly inhibited the formation of colonies by LSC. Apoptosis was triggered by BA through the upregulation of BAX and suppression of Bcl-2 and survivin genes with the loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, leading to the activation of caspase 9 followed by downstream caspase 3/7. BA was able to suppressed leukaemia formation and induced apoptosis in LSC xenotransplanted zebrafish. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that BA inhibited the proliferative and colonogenic properties of LSC. BA induced apoptosis in LSC through the mitochondria pathway and was effective in the in vivo zebrafish model. Therefore, BA could be a lead compound for further development into a chemotherapy agent against LSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok Hoong Leong
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre of Natural Products and Drug Discovery (CENAR), University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Mohamad Azrul Mahdzir
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fadzli Md Din
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khalijah Awang
- Centre of Natural Products and Drug Discovery (CENAR), University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yuka Tanaka
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kasem Kulkeaw
- Department of Research and Development of Next Generation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tohru Ishitani
- Division of Cell Regulation Systems, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sugiyama
- Department of Clinical Study, Center for Advanced Medical Innovation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-84582, Japan
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27
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Zhou J, Chng WJ. Aberrant RNA splicing and mutations in spliceosome complex in acute myeloid leukemia. Stem Cell Investig 2017; 4:6. [PMID: 28217708 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2017.01.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The spliceosome, the cellular splicing machinery, regulates RNA splicing of messenger RNA precursors (pre-mRNAs) into maturation of protein coding RNAs. Recurrent mutations and copy number changes in genes encoding spliceosomal proteins and splicing regulatory factors have tumor promoting or suppressive functions in hematological malignancies, as well as some other cancers. Leukemia stem cell (LSC) populations, although rare, are essential contributors of treatment failure and relapse. Recent researches have provided the compelling evidence that link the erratic spicing activity to the LSC phenotype in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this article, we describe the diverse roles of aberrant splicing in hematological malignancies, particularly in AML and their contributions to the characteristics of LSC. We review these promising strategies to exploit the addiction of aberrant spliceosomal machinery for anti-leukemic therapy with aim to eradicate LSC. However, given the complexity and plasticity of spliceosome and not fully known functions of splicing in cancer, the challenges facing the development of the therapeutic strategies targeting RAN splicing are highlighted and future directions are discussed too.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbiao Zhou
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, Singapore 117599, Singapore;; Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, Singapore 117599, Singapore;; Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore;; Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore (NCIS), The National University Health System (NUHS), Singapore 119228, Singapore
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28
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Han L, Jorgensen JL, Brooks C, Shi C, Zhang Q, Nogueras González GM, Cavazos A, Pan R, Mu H, Wang SA, Zhou J, Ai-Atrash G, Ciurea SO, Rettig M, DiPersio JF, Cortes J, Huang X, Kantarjian HM, Andreeff M, Ravandi F, Konopleva M. Antileukemia Efficacy and Mechanisms of Action of SL-101, a Novel Anti-CD123 Antibody Conjugate, in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Clin Cancer Res 2017; 23:3385-3395. [PMID: 28096272 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-16-1904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The persistence of leukemia stem cells (LSC)-containing cells after induction therapy may contribute to minimal residual disease (MRD) and relapse in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We investigated the clinical relevance of CD34+CD123+ LSC-containing cells and antileukemia potency of a novel antibody conjugate SL-101 in targeting CD123+ LSCs.Experimental Methods and Results: In a retrospective study on 86 newly diagnosed AML patients, we demonstrated that a higher proportion of CD34+CD123+ LSC-containing cells in remission was associated with persistent MRD and predicted shorter relapse-free survival in patients with poor-risk cytogenetics. Using flow cytometry, we explored the potential benefit of therapeutic targeting of CD34+CD38-CD123+ cells by SL-101, a novel antibody conjugate comprising an anti-CD123 single-chain Fv fused to Pseudomonas exotoxin A The antileukemia potency of SL-101 was determined by the expression levels of CD123 antigen in a panel of AML cell lines. Colony-forming assay established that SL-101 strongly and selectively suppressed the function of leukemic progenitors while sparing normal counterparts. The internalization, protein synthesis inhibition, and flow cytometry assays revealed the mechanisms underlying the cytotoxic activities of SL-101 involved rapid and efficient internalization of antibody, sustained inhibition of protein synthesis, induction of apoptosis, and blockade of IL3-induced p-STAT5 and p-AKT signaling pathways. In a patient-derived xenograft model using NSG mice, the repopulating capacity of LSCs pretreated with SL-101 in vitro was significantly impaired.Conclusions: Our data define the mechanisms by which SL-101 targets AML and warrant further investigation of the clinical application of SL-101 and other CD123-targeting strategies in AML. Clin Cancer Res; 23(13); 3385-95. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Han
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jeffrey L Jorgensen
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Ce Shi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Antonio Cavazos
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Rongqing Pan
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Hong Mu
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sa A Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Gheath Ai-Atrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Stefan O Ciurea
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mike Rettig
- Bone Marrow Transplantation and Leukemia Program, Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - John F DiPersio
- Bone Marrow Transplantation and Leukemia Program, Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Jorge Cortes
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Xuelin Huang
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Hagop M Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Farhad Ravandi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
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Stahl M, Kim TK, Zeidan AM. Update on acute myeloid leukemia stem cells: New discoveries and therapeutic opportunities. World J Stem Cells 2016; 8:316-331. [PMID: 27822339 PMCID: PMC5080639 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v8.i10.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of cancer stem cells has been well established in acute myeloid leukemia. Initial proof of the existence of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) was accomplished by functional studies in xenograft models making use of the key features shared with normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) such as the capacity of self-renewal and the ability to initiate and sustain growth of progenitors in vivo. Significant progress has also been made in identifying the phenotype and signaling pathways specific for LSCs. Therapeutically, a multitude of drugs targeting LSCs are in different phases of preclinical and clinical development. This review focuses on recent discoveries which have advanced our understanding of LSC biology and provided rational targets for development of novel therapeutic agents. One of the major challenges is how to target the self-renewal pathways of LSCs without affecting normal HSCs significantly therefore providing an acceptable therapeutic window. Important issues pertinent to the successful design and conduct of clinical trials evaluating drugs targeting LSCs will be discussed as well.
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Mohammadi S, Ghaffari SH, Shaiegan M, Zarif MN, Nikbakht M, Akbari Birgani S, Alimoghadam K, Ghavamzadeh A. Acquired expression of osteopontin selectively promotes enrichment of leukemia stem cells through AKT/mTOR/PTEN/β-catenin pathways in AML cells. Life Sci 2016; 152:190-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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31
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Daria D, Kirsten N, Muranyi A, Mulaw M, Ihme S, Kechter A, Hollnagel M, Bullinger L, Döhner K, Döhner H, Feuring-Buske M, Buske C. GPR56 contributes to the development of acute myeloid leukemia in mice. Leukemia 2016; 30:1734-41. [PMID: 27063597 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2016.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The G protein-coupled receptor 56 (GPR56) was identified as part of the molecular signature of functionally validated leukemic stem cells isolated from patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This report now demonstrates particularly high expression of GPR56 in patients with mutant NPM1 and FLT3-length mutation and association of high GPR56 expression with inferior prognosis in a large patient cohort treated in two independent multicenter phase III trials. Functional relevance of GPR56 expression was validated in mice, in which co-expression of Gpr56 significantly accelerated HOXA9-induced leukemogenesis and vice versa knockdown of Gpr56 delayed onset of HOXA9/MEIS1-induced AML. Overexpression of Gpr56 grossly changed the molecular phenotype of Hoxa9-transduced cells affecting pathways involved in G protein-coupled receptors (GPRCs) and associated intracellular signaling. Blockage of surface GPR56 by an anti-GPR56 antibody successfully impaired engraftment of primary human AML cells. In summary, these data demonstrate that high expression of GPR56 is able to contribute to AML development and characterize the GPR56 as a potential novel target for antibody-mediated antileukemic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Daria
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - N Kirsten
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - A Muranyi
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - M Mulaw
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - S Ihme
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - A Kechter
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - M Hollnagel
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - L Bullinger
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - K Döhner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - H Döhner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - M Feuring-Buske
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - C Buske
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Zong H, Gozman A, Caldas-Lopes E, Taldone T, Sturgill E, Brennan S, Ochiana SO, Gomes-DaGama EM, Sen S, Rodina A, Koren J 3rd, Becker MW, Rudin CM, Melnick A, Levine RL, Roboz GJ, Nimer SD, Chiosis G, Guzman ML. A Hyperactive Signalosome in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Drives Addiction to a Tumor-Specific Hsp90 Species. Cell Rep 2015; 13:2159-73. [PMID: 26628369 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.10.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous and fatal disease with an urgent need for improved therapeutic regimens given that most patients die from relapsed disease. Irrespective of mutation status, the development of aggressive leukemias is enabled by increasing dependence on signaling networks. We demonstrate that a hyperactive signalosome drives addiction of AML cells to a tumor-specific Hsp90 species (teHsp90). Through genetic, environmental, and pharmacologic perturbations, we demonstrate a direct and quantitative link between hyperactivated signaling pathways and apoptotic sensitivity of AML to teHsp90 inhibition. Specifically, we find that hyperactive JAK-STAT and PI3K-AKT signaling networks are maintained by teHsp90 and, in fact, gradual activation of these networks drives tumors increasingly dependent on teHsp90. Thus, although clinically aggressive AML survives via signalosome activation, this addiction creates a vulnerability that can be exploited with Hsp90-directed therapy.
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Tanaka M, Roberts JM, Qi J, Bradner JE. Inhibitors of emerging epigenetic targets for cancer therapy: a patent review (2010–2014). Pharm Pat Anal 2015; 4:261-84. [DOI: 10.4155/ppa.15.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Gene regulatory pathways comprise an emerging and active area of chemical probe discovery and investigational drug development. Emerging insights from cancer genome sequencing and chromatin biology have identified leveraged opportunities for development of chromatin-directed small molecules as cancer therapies. At present, only six agents in two epigenetic target classes have been approved by the US FDA, limited to treatment of hematological malignancies. Recently, new classes of epigenetic inhibitors have appeared in literatures. First-in-class compounds have successfully transitioned to clinical investigation, importantly also in solid tumors and pediatric malignancies. This review considers patent applications for small-molecule inhibitors of selected epigenetic targets from 2010 to 2014. Included are exemplary classes of chromatin-associated epigenomic writers (DOT1L and EZH2), erasers (LSD1) and readers (BRD4).
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34
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Ning C, Lu C, Hu L, Bi Y, Yao L, He Y, Liu L, Liu X, Yu N. Macrocyclic compounds as anti-cancer agents: Design and synthesis of multi-acting inhibitors against HDAC, FLT3 and JAK2. Eur J Med Chem 2015; 95:104-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
Despite increased comprehension of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) pathogenesis, current treatment strategies have done little to improve upon standard induction chemotherapy to induce long-term remissions. Since the identification of the leukemic stem cell, efforts have been placed on identifying therapeutically actionable pathways that distinguish this increasingly important cellular compartment. With the advent of increased genome sequencing efforts and phenotypic characterization, opportunities for personalized treatment strategies are rapidly emerging. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the understanding of leukemic stem cell biology and their potential for translation into clinically relevant therapeutics. NF-kappa B activation, Bcl-2 expression, oxidative and metabolic state, and epigenetic modifications all bear their own clinical implications. With advancements in genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic profiling, personalized strategies may be feasible in the near future to improve outcomes for AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L Guzman
- Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
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36
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Han L, Qiu P, Zeng Z, Jorgensen JL, Mak DH, Burks JK, Schober W, McQueen TJ, Cortes J, Tanner SD, Roboz GJ, Kantarjian HM, Kornblau SM, Guzman ML, Andreeff M, Konopleva M. Single-cell mass cytometry reveals intracellular survival/proliferative signaling in FLT3-ITD-mutated AML stem/progenitor cells. Cytometry A 2015; 87:346-56. [PMID: 25598437 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.22628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the unique phenotypes and complex signaling pathways of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) will provide insights and druggable targets that can be used to eradicate acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Current work on AML LSCs is limited by the number of parameters that conventional flow cytometry (FCM) can analyze because of cell autofluorescence and fluorescent dye spectral overlap. Single-cell mass cytometry (CyTOF) substitutes rare earth elements for fluorophores to label antibodies, which allows measurements of up to 120 parameters in single cells without correction for spectral overlap. The aim of this study was the evaluation of intracellular signaling in antigen-defined stem/progenitor cell subsets in primary AML. CyTOF and conventional FCM yielded comparable results on LSC phenotypes defined by CD45, CD34, CD38, CD123, and CD99. Intracellular phosphoprotein responses to ex vivo cell signaling inhibitors and cytokine stimulation were assessed in myeloid leukemia cell lines and one primary AML sample. CyTOF and conventional FCM results were confirmed by western blotting. In the primary AML sample, we investigated the cell responses to ex vivo stimulation with stem cell factor and BEZ235-induced inhibition of PI3K and identified activation patterns in multiple PI3K downstream signaling pathways including p-4EBP1, p-AKT, and p-S6, particularly in CD34(+) subsets. We evaluated multiple signaling pathways in antigen-defined subpopulations in primary AML cells with FLT3-ITD mutations. The data demonstrated the heterogeneity of cell phenotype distribution and distinct patterns of signaling activation across AML samples and between AML and normal samples. The mTOR targets p-4EBP1 and p-S6 were exclusively found in FLT3-ITD stem/progenitor cells, but not in their normal counterparts, suggesting both as novel targets in FLT3 mutated AML. Our data suggest that CyTOF can identify functional signaling pathways in antigen-defined subpopulations in primary AML, which may provide a rationale for designing therapeutics targeting LSC-enriched cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Han
- Department of Leukemia, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Abstract
Recent advances in molecular technology have unraveled the complexity of leukemogenesis and provided the opportunity to design more personalized and pathophysiology-targeted therapeutic strategies. Despite the use of intensive chemotherapy, relapse remains the most common cause for therapeutic failure in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The interactions between leukemia stem cells (LSC) and marrow microenvironment appear to be critical in promoting therapeutic resistance through progressive acquisition of genetic and epigenetic changes within leukemia cells and immune evasion, resulting in leukemia cell survival. With advances in genomic-sequencing efforts, epigenetic and phenotypic characterization, personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at critical leukemia survival mechanisms may be feasible in the near future. Here, we review select novel approaches to therapy of AML such as targeting LSC, altering leukemia/marrow microenvironment interactions, inhibiting DNA repair or cell-cycle checkpoints, and augmenting immune-based antileukemia activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Gojo
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Judith E Karp
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Ran Q, Hao P, Xiao Y, Xiang L, Ye X, Deng X, Zhao J, Li Z. CRIF1 interacting with CDK2 regulates bone marrow microenvironment-induced G0/G1 arrest of leukemia cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85328. [PMID: 24520316 PMCID: PMC3919709 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To assess the level of CR6-interacting factor 1 (CRIF1), a cell cycle negative regulator, in patients with leukemia and investigate the role of CRIF1 in regulating leukemia cell cycle. Methods We compared the CRIF1 level in bone marrow (BM) samples from healthy and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and AML-complete remission (AML-CR) subjects. We also manipulated CRIF1 level in the Jurkat cells using lentivirus-mediated overexpression or siRNA-mediated depletion. Co-culture with the BM stromal cells (BMSCs) was used to induce leukemia cell cycle arrest and mimic the BM microenvironment. Results We found significant decreases of CRIF1 mRNA and protein in the AML group. CRIF1 overexpression increased the proportion of Jurkat cells arrested in G0/G1, while depletion of endogenous CRIF1 decreased cell cycle arrest. Depletion of CRIF1 reversed BMSCs induced cell cycle arrest in leukemia cells. Co-immunoprecipitation showed a specific binding of CDK2 to CRIF1 in Jurkat cells during cell cycle arrest. Co-localization of two proteins in both nucleus and cytoplasm was also observed with immunofluorescent staining. Conclusion CRIF1 may play a regulatory role in the BM microenvironment-induced leukemia cell cycle arrest possibly through interacting with CDK2 and acting as a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ran
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Hao
- Oncologic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanni Xiao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lixing Xiang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xingde Ye
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojun Deng
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiang Zhao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhongjun Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- * E-mail:
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Mavroudi M, Zarogoulidis P, Porpodis K, Kioumis I, Lampaki S, Yarmus L, Malecki R, Zarogoulidis K, Malecki M. Stem cells' guided gene therapy of cancer: New frontier in personalized and targeted therapy. J Cancer Res Ther (Manch) 2014; 2:22-33. [PMID: 24860662 PMCID: PMC4031908 DOI: 10.14312/2052-4994.2014-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diagnosis and therapy of cancer remain to be the greatest challenges for all physicians working in clinical oncology and molecular medicine. The statistics speak for themselves with the grim reports of 1,638,910 men and women diagnosed with cancer and nearly 577,190 patients passed away due to cancer in the USA in 2012. For practicing clinicians, who treat patients suffering from advanced cancers with contemporary systemic therapies, the main challenge is to attain therapeutic efficacy, while minimizing side effects. Unfortunately, all contemporary systemic therapies cause side effects. In treated patients, these side effects may range from nausea to damaged tissues. In cancer survivors, the iatrogenic outcomes of systemic therapies may include genomic mutations and their consequences. Therefore, there is an urgent need for personalized and targeted therapies. Recently, we reviewed the current status of suicide gene therapy for cancer. Herein, we discuss the novel strategy: genetically engineered stem cells' guided gene therapy. REVIEW OF THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES IN PRECLINICAL AND CLINICAL TRIALS Stem cells have the unique potential for self renewal and differentiation. This potential is the primary reason for introducing them into medicine to regenerate injured or degenerated organs, as well as to rejuvenate aging tissues. Recent advances in genetic engineering and stem cell research have created the foundations for genetic engineering of stem cells as the vectors for delivery of therapeutic transgenes. Specifically in oncology, the stem cells are genetically engineered to deliver the cell suicide inducing genes selectively to the cancer cells only. Expression of the transgenes kills the cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells unaffected. Herein, we present various strategies to bioengineer suicide inducing genes and stem cell vectors. Moreover, we review results of the main preclinical studies and clinical trials. However, the main risk for therapeutic use of stem cells is their cancerous transformation. Therefore, we discuss various strategies to safeguard stem cell guided gene therapy against iatrogenic cancerogenesis. PERSPECTIVES Defining cancer biomarkers to facilitate early diagnosis, elucidating cancer genomics and proteomics with modern tools of next generation sequencing, and analyzing patients' gene expression profiles provide essential data to elucidate molecular dynamics of cancer and to consider them for crafting pharmacogenomics-based personalized therapies. Streamlining of these data into genetic engineering of stem cells facilitates their use as the vectors delivering therapeutic genes into specific cancer cells. In this realm, stem cells guided gene therapy becomes a promising new frontier in personalized and targeted therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mavroudi
- “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece, EU
| | - Paul Zarogoulidis
- “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece, EU
| | - Konstantinos Porpodis
- “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece, EU
| | - Ioannis Kioumis
- “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece, EU
| | - Sofia Lampaki
- “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece, EU
| | | | - Raf Malecki
- San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Phoenix Biomolecular Engineering Foundation, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Marek Malecki
- Phoenix Biomolecular Engineering Foundation, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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Abstract
Novel therapies with increased efficacy and decreased toxicity are desperately needed for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The anti CD33 immunoconjugate, gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO), was withdrawn with concerns over induction mortality and lack of efficacy. However a number of recent trials suggest that, particularly in AML with favourable cytogenetics, GO may improve overall survival. This data and the development of alternative novel monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have renewed interest in the area. Leukaemic stem cells (LSC) are identified as the subset of AML blasts that reproduces the leukaemic phenotype upon transplantation into immunosuppressed mice. AML relapse may be caused by chemoresistant LSC and this has refocused interest on identifying and targeting antigens specific for LSC. Several mAb have been developed that target LSC effectively in xenogeneic models but only a few have begun clinical evaluation. Antibody engineering may improve the activity of potential new therapeutics for AML. The encouraging results seen with bispecific T cell-engaging mAb-based molecules against CD19 in the treatment of B-cell acute lymphobalstic leukaemia, highlight the potential efficacy of engineered antibodies in the treatment of acute leukaemia. Potent engineered mAb, possibly targeting novel LSC antigens, offer hope for improving the current poor prognosis for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin E Gasiorowski
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW, Australia; Department of Haematology, Concord Cancer Centre, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
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Chiarini F, Lonetti A, Teti G, Orsini E, Bressanin D, Cappellini A, Ricci F, Tazzari PL, Ognibene A, Falconi M, Pagliaro P, Iacobucci I, Martinelli G, Amadori S, McCubrey JA, Martelli AM. A combination of temsirolimus, an allosteric mTOR inhibitor, with clofarabine as a new therapeutic option for patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Oncotarget 2012; 3:1615-28. [PMID: 23271044 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Signaling through the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway and its downstream effectors, Akt and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), is aberrantly activated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, where it contributes to leukemic cell proliferation, survival, and drug-resistance. Thus, inhibiting mTOR signaling in AML blasts could enhance their sensitivity to cytotoxic agents. Preclinical data also suggest that allosteric mTOR inhibition with rapamycin impaired leukemia initiating cells (LICs) function. In this study, we assessed the therapeutic potential of a combination consisting of temsirolimus [an allosteric mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitor] with clofarabine, a nucleoside analogue with potent inhibitory effects on both ribonucleotide reductase and DNA polymerase. The drug combination (CLO-TOR) displayed synergistic cytotoxic effects against a panel of AML cell lines and primary cells from AML patients. Treatment with CLO-TOR induced a G₀/G₁-phase cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy. CLO-TOR was pro-apoptotic in an AML patient blast subset (CD34⁺/CD38⁻/CD123⁺), which is enriched in putative leukemia initiating cells (LICs). In summary, the CLO-TOR combination could represent a novel valuable treatment for AML patients, also in light of its efficacy against LICs.
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