1
|
Bibbò F, Asadzadeh F, Boccia A, Sorice C, Bianco O, Saccà CD, Majello B, Donofrio V, Bifano D, De Martino L, Quaglietta L, Cristofano A, Covelli EM, Cinalli G, Ferrucci V, De Antonellis P, Zollo M. Targeting Group 3 Medulloblastoma by the Anti-PRUNE-1 and Anti-LSD1/KDM1A Epigenetic Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3917. [PMID: 38612726 PMCID: PMC11011515 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073917] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly malignant childhood brain tumor. Group 3 MB (Gr3 MB) is considered to have the most metastatic potential, and tailored therapies for Gr3 MB are currently lacking. Gr3 MB is driven by PRUNE-1 amplification or overexpression. In this paper, we found that PRUNE-1 was transcriptionally regulated by lysine demethylase LSD1/KDM1A. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of inhibiting both PRUNE-1 and LSD1/KDM1A with the selective inhibitors AA7.1 and SP-2577, respectively. We found that the pharmacological inhibition had a substantial efficacy on targeting the metastatic axis driven by PRUNE-1 (PRUNE-1-OTX2-TGFβ-PTEN) in Gr3 MB. Using RNA seq transcriptomic feature data in Gr3 MB primary cells, we provide evidence that the combination of AA7.1 and SP-2577 positively affects neuronal commitment, confirmed by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive differentiation and the inhibition of the cytotoxic components of the tumor microenvironment and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by the down-regulation of N-Cadherin protein expression. We also identified an impairing action on the mitochondrial metabolism and, consequently, oxidative phosphorylation, thus depriving tumors cells of an important source of energy. Furthermore, by overlapping the genomic mutational signatures through WES sequence analyses with RNA seq transcriptomic feature data, we propose in this paper that the combination of these two small molecules can be used in a second-line treatment in advanced therapeutics against Gr3 MB. Our study demonstrates that the usage of PRUNE-1 and LSD1/KDM1A inhibitors in combination represents a novel therapeutic approach for these highly aggressive metastatic MB tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Bibbò
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnological DMMBM, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.B.); (V.F.); (P.D.A.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Fatemeh Asadzadeh
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
- SEMM European School of Molecular Medicine, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Boccia
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Carmen Sorice
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Orazio Bianco
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Carmen Daniela Saccà
- Department of Biology, University Federico II of Naples, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.D.S.); (B.M.)
| | - Barbara Majello
- Department of Biology, University Federico II of Naples, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.D.S.); (B.M.)
| | - Vittoria Donofrio
- Department of Pathology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (V.D.); (D.B.)
| | - Delfina Bifano
- Department of Pathology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (V.D.); (D.B.)
| | - Lucia De Martino
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (L.D.M.); (L.Q.)
| | - Lucia Quaglietta
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (L.D.M.); (L.Q.)
| | - Adriana Cristofano
- Pediatric Neuroradiology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (E.M.C.)
| | - Eugenio Maria Covelli
- Pediatric Neuroradiology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (E.M.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Cinalli
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Santobono-Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, AORN, 80129 Naples, Italy;
| | - Veronica Ferrucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnological DMMBM, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.B.); (V.F.); (P.D.A.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Pasqualino De Antonellis
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnological DMMBM, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.B.); (V.F.); (P.D.A.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
| | - Massimo Zollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnological DMMBM, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.B.); (V.F.); (P.D.A.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (A.B.); (C.S.); (O.B.)
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, ‘AOU Federico II Policlinico’, 80131 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Q, Jia Y, Tang B, Yang H, Yang Q, Luo X, Pan Y. Mitochondrial subtype MB-G3 contains potential novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets associated with prognosis of medulloblastoma. Biomarkers 2023; 28:643-651. [PMID: 37886818 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2023.2276670] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. There are four groups, each with different causal mutations, affected pathways and prognosis. Here, we investigated the role of mitochondria in medulloblastoma and whether there are differences between the different groups. METHODS We compared the gene expression levels in the four different medulloblastoma groups (MB-WNT, MB-SHH, MB-G3 and MB-G4), with the focus on genes associated with mitochondria. We used several tools including Salmon, Tximeta, DESeq2, BiomaRt, STRING, Ggplot2, EnhancedVolcano, Venny 2.1 and Metscape. RESULTS A total of 668 genes were differentially expressed and the most abundant genes were associated with cell division pathway followed by modulation of chemical synaptic transmission. We also identified several genes (ABAT, SOX9, ALDH5A, FOXM1, ABL1, NHLH1, NEUROD1 and NEUROD2) known to play vital role in medulloblastoma. Comparative expression analysis revealed OXPHOS complex-associated proteins of mitochondria. The most significantly expressed genes in the MB-SHH and MB-G4 groups were AHCYL1 and SFXN5 while PAICS was significantly upregulated in MB-WNT group. Notably, MB-G3 contained the most downregulated genes from the OXPHOS complexes, except COX6B2 which was strongly upregulated. CONCLUSIONS We show the importance of mitochondria and compare their role in the four different medulloblastoma groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Yanfei Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Hu Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Qiang Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Xiaodong Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Yawen Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dou Z, Li M, Shen Z, Jiang H, Pang X, Li T, Liang X, Tang Y. GAD1-mediated GABA elicits aggressive characteristics of human oral cancer cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 681:80-89. [PMID: 37774573 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Studies suggest that the expression of glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and GABA receptors are involved in tumor progression. However, the underlying mechanisms of high expression and potential functions of GAD1 and GABA in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are not known. In this study, we found that the expressions of GAD1 and GABA were considerably increased in OSCC samples, which were closely associated with clinical stage and lymph node metastasis. The knockdown of GAD1 expression significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of OSCC cells by reducing the expression of GABA-mediated GABAB receptors, which could be reversed by exogenous GABA, but did not cause excessive OSCC cell proliferation. And GABA secreted by OSCC cells promoted M2 macrophage polarization for inhibiting anti-tumor immunity by activating GABBR1/ERK/Ca2+. In addition, GABA/GABABR promoted the proliferation and progression of OSCC xenograft tumor. Altogether, our results showed that GAD1 synthetized GABA to promote the malignant progression of OSCC and limits the anti-tumor immunity of macrophages, thereby targeting GABA can be a novel strategy for treating OSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral Pathology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral Pathology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zeliang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral Pathology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjie Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral Pathology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianjiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinhua Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yaling Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral Pathology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Strelez C, Perez R, Chlystek JS, Cherry C, Yoon AY, Haliday B, Shah C, Ghaffarian K, Sun RX, Jiang H, Lau R, Schatz A, Lenz HJ, Katz JE, Mumenthaler SM. Integration of Patient-Derived Organoids and Organ-on-Chip Systems: Investigating Colorectal Cancer Invasion within the Mechanical and GABAergic Tumor Microenvironment. bioRxiv 2023:2023.09.14.557797. [PMID: 37745376 PMCID: PMC10515884 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.14.557797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models are essential in cancer research, but they often neglect physical forces. In our study, we combined patient-derived tumor organoids with a microfluidic organ-on-chip system to investigate colorectal cancer (CRC) invasion in the tumor microenvironment (TME). This allowed us to create patient-specific tumor models and assess the impact of physical forces on cancer biology. Our findings showed that the organoid-on-chip models more closely resembled patient tumors at the transcriptional level, surpassing organoids alone. Using 'omics' methods and live-cell imaging, we observed heightened responsiveness of KRAS mutant tumors to TME mechanical forces. These tumors also utilized the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter as an energy source, increasing their invasiveness. This bioengineered model holds promise for advancing our understanding of cancer progression and improving CRC treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carly Strelez
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Perez
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John S Chlystek
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Ah Young Yoon
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bethany Haliday
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Curran Shah
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kimya Ghaffarian
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ren X Sun
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hannah Jiang
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Roy Lau
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Aaron Schatz
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan E Katz
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shannon M Mumenthaler
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cocito C, Martin B, Giantini-Larsen AM, Valcarce-Aspegren M, Souweidane MM, Szalontay L, Dahmane N, Greenfield JP. Leptomeningeal dissemination in pediatric brain tumors. Neoplasia 2023; 39:100898. [PMID: 37011459 PMCID: PMC10124141 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) in pediatric brain tumors (PBTs) is a poorly understood and categorized phenomenon. LMD incidence rates, as well as diagnosis, treatment, and screening practices, vary greatly depending on the primary tumor pathology. While LMD is encountered most frequently in medulloblastoma, reports of LMD have been described across a wide variety of PBT pathologies. LMD may be diagnosed simultaneously with the primary tumor, at time of recurrence, or as primary LMD without a primary intraparenchymal lesion. Dissemination and seeding of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) involves a modified invasion-metastasis cascade and is often the result of direct deposition of tumor cells into the CSF. Cells develop select environmental advantages to survive the harsh, nutrient poor and turbulent environment of the CSF and leptomeninges. Improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie LMD, along with improved diagnostic and treatment approaches, will help the prognosis of children affected by primary brain tumors.
Collapse
|
6
|
Cai J, Wang Y, Wang X, Ai Z, Li T, Pu X, Yang X, Yao Y, He J, Cheng SY, Yu T, Liu C, Yue S. AMPK attenuates SHH subgroup medulloblastoma growth and metastasis by inhibiting NF-κB activation. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:15. [PMID: 36683064 PMCID: PMC9867863 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00963-2] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most common malignant pediatric brain tumors. Metastasis and relapse are the leading causes of death in MB patients. The initiation of the SHH subgroup of MB (SHH-MB) is due to the aberrant activation of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling. However, the mechanisms for its metastasis are still unknown. RESULTS AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) restrains the activation of Shh signaling pathway, thereby impeding the proliferation of SHH-MB cells. More importantly, AMPK also hinders the growth and metastasis of SHH-MB cells by regulating NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, Vismodegib and TPCA-1, which block the Shh and NF-κB pathways, respectively, synergistically restrained the growth, migration, and invasion of SHH-MB cells. CONCLUSIONS This work demonstrates that AMPK functions through two signaling pathways, SHH-GLI1 and NF-κB. AMPK-NF-κB axis is a potential target for molecular therapy of SHH-MB, and the combinational blockade of NF-κB and Shh pathways confers synergy for SHH-MB therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cai
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Yue Wang
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Xinfa Wang
- grid.452511.6Department of Neurosurgery, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210093 China
| | - Zihe Ai
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Tianyuan Li
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Xiaohong Pu
- grid.428392.60000 0004 1800 1685Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Xin Yang
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Yixing Yao
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, 215200 China
| | - Junping He
- grid.452511.6Department of Neurosurgery, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210093 China
| | - Steven Y. Cheng
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China ,grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Tingting Yu
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Chen Liu
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Shen Yue
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Xenotransplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China ,grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ozbek II, Ulgen KO. Identification of Therapeutic Targets for Medulloblastoma by Tissue-Specific Genome-Scale Metabolic Model. Molecules 2023; 28. [PMID: 36677837 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB), occurring in the cerebellum, is the most common childhood brain tumor. Because conventional methods decline life quality and endanger children with detrimental side effects, computer models are needed to imitate the characteristics of cancer cells and uncover effective therapeutic targets with minimum toxic effects on healthy cells. In this study, metabolic changes specific to MB were captured by the genome-scale metabolic brain model integrated with transcriptome data. To determine the roles of sphingolipid metabolism in proliferation and metastasis in the cancer cell, 79 reactions were incorporated into the MB model. The pathways employed by MB without a carbon source and the link between metastasis and the Warburg effect were examined in detail. To reveal therapeutic targets for MB, biomass-coupled reactions, the essential genes/gene products, and the antimetabolites, which might deplete the use of metabolites in cells by triggering competitive inhibition, were determined. As a result, interfering with the enzymes associated with fatty acid synthesis (FAs) and the mevalonate pathway in cholesterol synthesis, suppressing cardiolipin production, and tumor-supporting sphingolipid metabolites might be effective therapeutic approaches for MB. Moreover, decreasing the activity of succinate synthesis and GABA-catalyzing enzymes concurrently might be a promising strategy for metastatic MB.
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Cancer cells possess various biological processes to ensure survival and proliferation even under unfavorable conditions such as hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and oxidative stress. One of the defining hallmarks of cancer cells is their ability to reprogram their metabolism to suit their needs. Building on over a decade of research in the field of cancer metabolism, numerous unique metabolic capabilities are still being discovered in the present day. One recent discovery in the field of cancer metabolism that was hitherto unexpected is the ability of cancer cells to store vital metabolites in forms that can be readily converted to glucose and glutamine for later use. We called these forms "metabolic reservoirs." While many studies have been conducted on storage molecules such as glycogen, triglyceride, and phosphocreatine (PCr), few have explored the concept of "metabolic reservoirs" for cancer as a whole. In this review, we will provide an overview of this concept, the previously known reservoirs including glycogen, triglyceride, and PCr, and the new discoveries made including the newly discovered reservoirs such as N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG), lactate, and γ- aminobutyric acid (GABA). We will also discuss whether disrupting these reservoir cycles may be a new avenue for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cissy Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Anne Le
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Marabitti V, Giansanti M, De Mitri F, Gatto F, Mastronuzzi A, Nazio F. Pathological implications of metabolic reprogramming and its therapeutic potential in medulloblastoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1007641. [PMID: 36340043 PMCID: PMC9627342 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1007641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-specific alterations in metabolism have been recognized to sustain the production of ATP and macromolecules needed for cell growth, division and survival in many cancer types. However, metabolic heterogeneity poses a challenge for the establishment of effective anticancer therapies that exploit metabolic vulnerabilities. Medulloblastoma (MB) is one of the most heterogeneous malignant pediatric brain tumors, divided into four molecular subgroups (Wingless, Sonic Hedgehog, Group 3 and Group 4). Recent progresses in genomics, single-cell sequencing, and novel tumor models have updated the classification and stratification of MB, highlighting the complex intratumoral cellular diversity of this cancer. In this review, we emphasize the mechanisms through which MB cells rewire their metabolism and energy production networks to support and empower rapid growth, survival under stressful conditions, invasion, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Additionally, we discuss the potential clinical benefits of currently available drugs that could target energy metabolism to suppress MB progression and increase the efficacy of the current MB therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Marabitti
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Giansanti
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca De Mitri
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gatto
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Nazio
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mahmoodifar S, Pangal DJ, Cardinal T, Craig D, Simon T, Tew BY, Yang W, Chang E, Yu M, Neman J, Mason J, Toga A, Salhia B, Zada G, Newton PK. A quantitative characterization of the spatial distribution of brain metastases from breast cancer and respective molecular subtypes. J Neurooncol 2022; 160:241-251. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-04147-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
11
|
van Bree NFHN, Wilhelm M. The Tumor Microenvironment of Medulloblastoma: An Intricate Multicellular Network with Therapeutic Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205009. [PMID: 36291792 PMCID: PMC9599673 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The current treatment options for medulloblastoma, the most common malignant childhood brain cancer, are associated with many negative side effects and toxicities. Therefore, novel treatment options are needed that target the tumor without affecting the healthy tissue. Medulloblastoma tumors consist of a wide variety of cell types and extracellular components that make up the microenvironment of the tumor. This tumor microenvironment influences the development, progression, and relapse of medulloblastoma through different cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix interactions. Obtaining insights into these interactions will help with gaining a better understanding of this malignancy. Additionally, it could support the search for new targets of treatments directed at components of the tumor microenvironment. Abstract Medulloblastoma (MB) is a heterogeneous disease in which survival is highly affected by the underlying subgroup-specific characteristics. Although the current treatment modalities have increased the overall survival rates of MB up to 70–80%, MB remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality among children. This indicates that novel therapeutic approaches against MB are needed. New promising treatment options comprise the targeting of cells and components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME of MB consists of an intricate multicellular network of tumor cells, progenitor cells, astrocytes, neurons, supporting stromal cells, microglia, immune cells, extracellular matrix components, and vasculature systems. In this review, we will discuss all the different components of the MB TME and their role in MB initiation, progression, metastasis, and relapse. Additionally, we briefly introduce the effect that age plays on the TME of brain malignancies and discuss the MB subgroup-specific differences in TME components and how all of these variations could affect the progression of MB. Finally, we highlight the TME-directed treatments, in which we will focus on therapies that are being evaluated in clinical trials.
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhao G, Li S, Wang Q, Wu W, Fu X, Zhu C, Wang W, Wang X. ABAT gene expression associated with the sensitivity of hypomethylating agents in myelodysplastic syndrome through CXCR4/mTOR signaling. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:398. [PMID: 36163180 PMCID: PMC9512903 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01170-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The factors that affect hypomethylating agents (HMAs) sensitivity in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are complex and multifaceted. They include DNA methylation, gene expression, mutation, etc. However, the underlying mechanisms are still not clearly illustrated. In the present work, ABAT gene expression was associated with HMAs sensitivity. It was found that ABAT gene interference increased the sensitivity of HL-60 and THP-1 cells to HMAs treatment, while ABAT overexpression decreased its sensitivity. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that ABAT knockdown activated both interferon I and interferon-gamma signaling while inhibiting the secondary metabolic synthesis and arginine metabolic process. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) based metabolic profiling also demonstrated that ABAT gene knockdown affected arginine, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, in addition to the biosynthesis of valine, leucine, and isoleucine, and the metabolism of beta-alanine. The ABAT gene expression downregulation could activate the CXCR4/mTOR signaling pathway, which was related to HMAs sensitivity. CXCR4 expression was regulated by mTOR activity and vice versa. In vivo, mice injected with ABAT gene knockdown cells lived longer than control mice after HMAs treatment. Overall, this study elucidates the novel regulatory mechanisms of HMAs sensitivity and provides a potential therapeutic target in MDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangjie Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.85 Wujin Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanlin Wu
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuewei Fu
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Zhu
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang S, Feng Y, Chen L, Yu J, Van Ongeval C, Bormans G, Li Y, Ni Y. Towards updated understanding of brain metastasis. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:4290-4311. [PMID: 36225632 PMCID: PMC9548021] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BM) is a common complication in cancer patients with advanced disease and attributes to treatment failure and final mortality. Currently there are several therapeutic options available; however these are only suitable for limited subpopulation: surgical resection or radiosurgery for cases with a limited number of lesions, targeted therapies for approximately 18% of patients, and immune checkpoint inhibitors with a response rate of 20-30%. Thus, there is a pressing need for development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic options. This overview article aims to provide research advances in disease model, targeted therapy, blood brain barrier (BBB) opening strategies, imaging and its incorporation with artificial intelligence, external radiotherapy, and internal targeted radionuclide theragnostics. Finally, a distinct type of BM, leptomeningeal metastasis is also covered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuncong Wang
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Yuanbo Feng
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Lei Chen
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Jie Yu
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Chantal Van Ongeval
- Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU LeuvenHerestraat 49, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Guy Bormans
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Yue Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health SciencesShanghai 201318, China
| | - Yicheng Ni
- KU Leuven, Biomedical Group, Campus GasthuisbergLeuven 3000, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Russo C, Scala MR, Spennato P, Nastro A, Errico ME, De Martino L, Cinalli G. Primary leptomeningeal medulloblastoma: a case-based review. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:527-36. [PMID: 35059784 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05435-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor, accounting for 40% of childhood tumors in posterior fossa. Metastatic disease, occurring in 20-30% of all medulloblastoma cases at diagnosis, is largely exclusive to the leptomeninges. On the contrary, primary leptomeningeal medulloblastoma or so-called chameleon medulloblastoma, defined by the absence of a detectable intraparenchymal lesion with a widespread diffusion along leptomeninges, is a rare entity of difficult diagnosis with only a few cases reported in literature. METHODS AND RESULTS A comprehensive literature search of three databases (PubMed, Ovid Medline, and Ovid Embase) have been conducted to identify pertinent papers focusing on the diagnostic process, management, and treatment of primary leptomeningeal medulloblastoma and its peculiar features. To our knowledge, only eight cases are described in literature, including five pediatric patients and three adults, two of which with the initial involvement of the spinal cord. In addition, we report another two pediatric cases, showing widespread primary diffusion along leptomeninges of brain and spinal cord. Finally, we analyze in-depth the peculiar morphological MRI features of this tumor. CONCLUSION The classification and treatment of medulloblastomas are likely to change in the coming years due to new insights into the molecular biology of medulloblastoma. Primary leptomeningeal medulloblastoma could represent another potential challenge for biologists to start exploring the underlying mechanisms of this different clinical and pathological entity, with different implications for diagnosis and its management.
Collapse
|
15
|
Seton-Rogers S. Metabolic mechanisms of medulloblastoma metastasis. Nat Rev Cancer 2021; 21:540. [PMID: 34282321 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00391-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|