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Sanderson PA, Esnal-Zufiaurre A, Arends MJ, Herrington CS, Collins F, Williams ARW, Saunders PTK. Improving the Diagnosis of Endometrial Hyperplasia Using Computerized Analysis and Immunohistochemical Biomarkers. Front Reprod Health 2022; 4:896170. [PMID: 36303676 PMCID: PMC9580641 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.896170] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is a precursor lesion to endometrial carcinoma (EC). Risks for EC include genetic, hormonal and metabolic factors most notably those associated with obesity: rates are rising and there is concern that cases in pre-menopausal women may remain undetected. Making an accurate distinction between benign and pre-malignant disease is both a challenge for the pathologist and important to the gynecologist who wants to deliver the most appropriate care to meet the needs of the patient. Premalignant change may be recognized by histological changes of endometrial hyperplasia (which may occur with or without atypia) and endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN). In this study we created a tissue resource of EH samples diagnosed between 2004 and 2009 (n = 125) and used this to address key questions: 1. Are the EIN/WHO2014 diagnostic criteria able to consistently identify premalignant endometrium? 2. Can computer aided image analysis inform identification of EIN? 3. Can we improve diagnosis by incorporating analysis of protein expression using immunohistochemistry. Our findings confirmed the inclusion of EIN in diagnostic criteria resulted in a better agreement between expert pathologists compared with the previous WHO94 criteria used for the original diagnosis of our sample set. A computer model based on assessment of stromal:epithelial ratio appeared most accurate in classification of areas of tissue without EIN. From an extensive panel of putative endometrial protein tissue biomarkers a score based on assessment of HAND2, PTEN, and PAX2 was able to identify four clusters one of which appeared to be more likely to be benign. In summary, our study has highlighted new opportunities to improve diagnosis of pre-malignant disease in endometrium and provide a platform for further research on this important topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Sanderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh Bioquarter, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Arantza Esnal-Zufiaurre
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh Bioquarter, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J. Arends
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - C. Simon Herrington
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Frances Collins
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh Bioquarter, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R. W. Williams
- Department of Pathology, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T. K. Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh Bioquarter, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Chodankar RR, Murray A, Nicol M, Whitaker LHR, Williams ARW, Critchley HOD. The endometrial response to modulation of ligand-progesterone receptor pathways is reversible. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:882-895. [PMID: 33865567 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.02.008] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the impact of the progesterone receptor modulator (PRM), ulipristal acetate (UPA), on endometrial morphology and function. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING University Research Institute. PATIENT(S) Endometrial biopsies from 16 patients with heavy menstrual bleeding with a structurally normal uterus or in association with structural abnormalities identified on radiological imaging (fibroids, adenomyosis or a combination of fibroids and adenomyosis). INTERVENTION(S) Participants received UPA (5 mg once daily) for three 12-week courses, each separated by 4 weeks without treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Gene expression by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and digital image analysis were analyzed to investigate the endometrial impact of modulation of progesterone receptor pathways upon expression of steroid receptors, steroid metabolizing enzymes, cell proliferation, and progesterone-regulated genes in the same patients at 3 time points: before, during, and after discontinuation of PRM treatment. RESULT(S) Ulipristal acetate treatment resulted in increased messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of steroid receptors compared with pretreatment secretory endometrium; decreased mRNA levels of 17- and 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases compared with pretreatment proliferative endometrium and pretreatment secretory endometrium; reduced cell proliferation compared with pretreatment proliferative endometrium; and altered mRNA levels of progesterone-regulated genes. A strong consistency between immunohistochemistry-digital image analysis and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results was evident. Alterations in the mRNA levels and endometrial morphology returned to a pretreatment phenotype after the cessation of PRM exposure. CONCLUSION(S) The endometrial impact of the modulation of progesterone receptor pathways with PRM (UPA) treatment is reversible. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Ulipristal acetate versus conventional management of heavy menstrual bleeding (UCON) trial (EudraCT 2014-003408-65; REC14/LO/1602).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan R Chodankar
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Murray
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Moira Nicol
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy H R Whitaker
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R W Williams
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Hilary O D Critchley
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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Stewart EA, Diamond MP, Williams ARW, Carr BR, Myers ER, Feldman RA, Elger W, Mattia-Goldberg C, Schwefel BM, Chwalisz K. Safety and efficacy of the selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil for heavy menstrual bleeding with uterine fibroids: pooled analysis of two 12-month, placebo-controlled, randomized trials. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:623-634. [PMID: 30865281 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can asoprisnil, a selective progesterone receptor modulator, provide clinically meaningful improvements in heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) associated with uterine fibroids with an acceptable safety profile? SUMMARY ANSWER Uninterrupted treatment with asoprisnil for 12 months effectively controlled HMB and reduced fibroid and uterine volume with few adverse events. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In a 3-month study, asoprisnil (5, 10 and 25 mg) suppressed uterine bleeding, reduced fibroid and uterine volume, and improved hematological parameters in a dose-dependent manner. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In two Phase 3, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicentre studies, women received oral asoprisnil 10 mg, asoprisnil 25 mg or placebo (2:2:1) once daily for up to 12 months. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Premenopausal women ≥18 years of age in North America with HMB associated with uterine fibroids were included (N = 907). The primary efficacy endpoint was the percentage of women who met all three predefined criteria at 12 months or the final month for patients who prematurely discontinued: (1) ≥50% reduction in monthly blood loss (MBL) by menstrual pictogram, (2) hemoglobin concentration ≥11 g/dL or an increase of ≥1 g/dL, and (3) no interventional therapy for uterine fibroids. Secondary efficacy endpoints included changes in other menstrual bleeding parameters, volume of the largest fibroids, uterine volume and health-related quality of life (HRQL). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In all, 90% and 93% of women in the asoprisnil 10-mg and 25-mg groups, respectively, and 35% of women in the placebo group met the primary endpoint (P < 0.001). Similar results were observed at month 6 (P < 0.001). The percentage of women who achieved amenorrhea in any specified month ranged from 66-78% in the asoprisnil 10-mg group and 83-93% in the asoprisnil 25-mg group, significantly higher than with placebo (3-12%, P < 0.001). Hemoglobin increased rapidly (by month 2) with asoprisnil treatment and was significantly higher versus placebo throughout treatment. The primary fibroid and uterine volumes were significantly reduced from baseline through month 12 with asoprisnil 10 mg (median changes up to -48% and -28%, respectively) and 25 mg (median changes up to -63% and -39%, respectively) versus placebo (median changes up to +16% and +13%, respectively; all P < 0.001). Dose-dependent, significant improvements in HRQL (Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life instrument) were observed with asoprisnil treatment. Asoprisnil was generally well tolerated. Endometrial biopsies indicated dose- and time-dependent decreases in proliferative patterns and increases in quiescent or minimally stimulated endometrium at month 12 of treatment. Although not statistically significantly different at month 6, mean endometrial thickness at month 12 increased by ~2 mm in both asoprisnil groups compared with placebo (P < 0.01). This effect was associated with cystic changes in the endometrium on MRI and ultrasonography, which led to invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in some asoprisnil-treated women. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Most study participants were black; few Asian and Hispanic women participated. The study duration may have been insufficient to fully characterize the endometrial effects. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Daily uninterrupted treatment with asoprisnil was highly effective in controlling menstrual bleeding, improving anemia, reducing fibroid and uterine volume, and increasing HRQL in women with HMB associated with uterine fibroids. However, this treatment led to an increase in endometrial thickness and invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, with potential unknown consequences. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This trial was funded by AbbVie Inc. (prior sponsors: TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Abbott Laboratories). E.A. Stewart was a site investigator in the Phase 2 study of asoprisnil and consulted for TAP during the design and conduct of these studies while at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. She received support from National Institutes of Health grants HD063312, HS023418 and HD074711 and research funding, paid to Mayo Clinic for patient care costs related to an NIH-funded trial from InSightec Ltd. She consulted for AbbVie, Allergan, Bayer HealthCare AG, Gynesonics, and Welltwigs. She received royalties from UpToDate and the Med Learning Group. M.P. Diamond received research funding for the conduct of the studies paid to the institution and consulted for AbbVie. He is a stockholder and board and director member of Advanced Reproductive Care. He has also received funding for study conduct paid to the institution from Bayer and ObsEva. A.R.W. Williams consulted for TAP and Repros Therapeutics Inc. He has current consultancies with PregLem SA, Gedeon Richter, HRA Pharma and Bayer. B.R. Carr consulted for and received research funding from AbbVie. E.R. Myers consulted for AbbVie, Allergan and Bayer. R.A. Feldman received compensation for serving as a principal investigator and participating in the conduct of the trial. W. Elger was co-inventor of several patents related to asoprisnil. C. Mattia-Goldberg is a former employee of AbbVie and may own AbbVie stock or stock options. B.M. Schwefel and K. Chwalisz are employees of AbbVie and may own AbbVie stock or stock options. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00152269, NCT00160381 (clinicaltrials.gov). TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 7 September 2005; 8 September 2005. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENT 12 September 2002; 6 September 2002.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Stewart
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Surgery, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - M P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - A R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - B R Carr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - E R Myers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - W Elger
- Evestra GmbH, Berlin-Dahlem, Germany
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Abstract
The physiological functions of the uterine endometrium (uterine lining) are preparation for implantation, maintenance of pregnancy if implantation occurs, and menstruation in the absence of pregnancy. The endometrium thus plays a pivotal role in reproduction and continuation of our species. Menstruation is a steroid-regulated event, and there are alternatives for a progesterone-primed endometrium, i.e., pregnancy or menstruation. Progesterone withdrawal is the trigger for menstruation. The menstruating endometrium is a physiological example of an injured or “wounded” surface that is required to rapidly repair each month. The physiological events of menstruation and endometrial repair provide an accessible in vivo human model of inflammation and tissue repair. Progress in our understanding of endometrial pathophysiology has been facilitated by modern cellular and molecular discovery tools, along with animal models of simulated menses. Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), including heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), imposes a massive burden on society, affecting one in four women of reproductive age. Understanding structural and nonstructural causes underpinning AUB is essential to optimize and provide precision in patient management. This is facilitated by careful classification of causes of bleeding. We highlight the crucial need for understanding mechanisms underpinning menstruation and its aberrations. The endometrium is a prime target tissue for selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs). This class of compounds has therapeutic potential for the clinical unmet need of HMB. SPRMs reduce menstrual bleeding by mechanisms still largely unknown. Human menstruation remains a taboo topic, and many questions concerning endometrial physiology that pertain to menstrual bleeding are yet to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary O. D. Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline A. Maybin
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory M. Armstrong
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R. W. Williams
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Papaikonomou K, Frisendahl C, Williams ARW, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Effects of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system on the endometrium after long-term exposure to mifepristone: Secondary outcomes of a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:330-335. [PMID: 32653606 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.06.056] [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: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Long-term treatment with progesterone receptor modulators (PRM) is associated with a distinct histological entity termed progesterone receptor modulator associated endometrial changes (PAEC). While accumulating evidence implies that these changes are benign and reversible after cessation of treatment, there are currently no data underpinning their development. Consequently, as a precaution, endometrial shedding is recommended after long-term PRM intake. Avoiding endometrial shedding after treatment with a PRM and prior to the start of a progestin treatment would be beneficial for women in reproductive age to avoid pregnancy and bleeding. However, the endometrial morphology with such a treatment regimen is unknown. The aim of this study was to delineate the endometrial morphology following continuous long-term treatment with the PRM mifepristone and subsequent placement of a levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) without prior shedding of the endometrium. STUDY DESIGN This study reports the secondary outcome from a double-blinded randomized controlled trial conducted at Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden, November 2009 to January 2015. Healthy women aged 18-43 years with regular menstrual cycles were included. Eligible women were randomized to receive either 50 mg of mifepristone (n = 29) or a comparator (n = 29), every other day for two months followed by insertion of an LNG-IUS 52 mg. Endometrial biopsies were obtained at baseline and three months after placement of the device. The samples were histologically assessed. The main outcome measure of this sub-study was the endometrial morphology including presence of PAEC three months after LNG-IUS insertion. RESULTS Nine and eight paired biopsies from the mifepristone and comparator group, respectively, were included in the histological analysis. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between the groups and all baseline endometrial biopsies were physiological. Three months after LNG-IUS placement the endometrial morphology was still benign without PAEC in all samples treated with either mifepristone or comparator. A progestin effect on the endometrium was seen in all samples. CONCLUSIONS Placement of an LNG-IUS immediately following two months' treatment with the PRM mifepristone, without any prior shedding of the endometrium, may represent a feasible approach in terms of endometrial safety. However, larger studies are needed to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiriaki Papaikonomou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Caroline Frisendahl
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alistair R W Williams
- Division of Pathology, The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Diamond MP, Stewart EA, Williams ARW, Carr BR, Myers ER, Feldman RA, Elger W, Mattia-Goldberg C, Schwefel BM, Chwalisz K. A 12-month extension study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of asoprisnil in women with heavy menstrual bleeding and uterine fibroids. Hum Reprod Open 2019; 2019:hoz027. [PMID: 31777761 PMCID: PMC6870550 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoz027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the safety and efficacy profile during long-term (12–24 months) uninterrupted treatment with the selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil, 10 and 25 mg in women with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) associated with uterine fibroids? SUMMARY ANSWER Uninterrupted treatment with asoprisnil should be avoided due to endometrial safety concerns and unknown potential long-term consequences. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Asoprisnil was well tolerated in shorter-term studies and effectively suppressed HMB and reduced fibroid volume. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Women with uterine fibroids who had previously received placebo (n = 87) or asoprisnil 10 mg (n = 221) or 25 mg (n = 215) for 12 months in two double-blind studies entered this randomized uncontrolled extension study and received up to 12 additional months of treatment followed by 6 months of post-treatment follow-up. Women who previously received placebo were re-randomized to either asoprisnil 10 or 25 mg for the extension study. This report focuses on the 436 women who received asoprisnil in the double-blind studies and this extension study. Results for women who previously received placebo in the double-blind studies are not described. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women ≥18 years of age who completed a 12-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, had estradiol levels indicating that they were not menopausal and had no endometrial hyperplasia or other significant endometrial pathology were eligible. The safety endpoints were focused on endometrial assessments. The composite primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of women who demonstrated a response to treatment by meeting all three of the following criteria at the final month for participants who prematurely discontinued or at month 12 for those who completed the study: a reduction from initial baseline to final visit of ≥50% in the menstrual pictogram score, hemoglobin concentration ≥11 g/dl or an increase of ≥1 g/dl from initial baseline at the final visit, and no surgical or invasive intervention for uterine fibroids. Other efficacy endpoints included rates for amenorrhea and suppression of bleeding, changes in fibroid and uterine volume and changes in hematologic parameters. No statistical tests were planned or performed for this uncontrolled study. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE Imaging studies revealed a progressive increase in endometrial thickness and cystic changes that frequently prompted invasive diagnostic procedures. Endometrial biopsy results were consistent with antiproliferative effects of asoprisnil. Two cases of endometrial cancer were diagnosed. At the final month of this extension study (total duration of uninterrupted treatment up to 24 months), the primary efficacy endpoint was achieved in 86 and 92% of women in the asoprisnil 10- and 25-mg groups, respectively. During each month of treatment, amenorrhea was observed in the majority of women (up to 77 and 94% at 10 and 25 mg, respectively). There was a progressive, dose-dependent decrease in the volume of the primary fibroid with asoprisnil 10 and 25 mg (−55.7 and −75.2% median decrease, respectively, from baseline [i.e. the beginning of the placebo-controlled study] to month 12 [cumulative months 12–24] of this extension study). These effects were associated with improvements in quality of life measures. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was uncontrolled, which limits the interpretation of safety and efficacy findings. The study also had multiple protocol amendments with the addition of diagnostic procedures and, because no active comparator was included, the potential place of asoprisnil in comparison to therapies such as GnRH agonists and surgery cannot be determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Long-term, uninterrupted treatment with asoprisnil leads to prominent cystic endometrial changes that are consistent with the ‘late progesterone receptor modulator’ effects, which prompted invasive diagnostic procedures, although treatment efficacy is maintained. Although endometrial cancers were uncommon during both treatment and follow-up, these findings raise concerns regarding endometrial safety during uninterrupted long-term treatment with asoprisnil. This study shows that uninterrupted treatment with asoprisnil should be avoided due to safety concerns and unknown potential long-term consequences. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) AbbVie Inc. (prior sponsor, TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc.) sponsored the study and contributed to the design and conduct of the study, data management, data analysis, interpretation of the data and the preparation and approval of the manuscript. Financial support for medical writing and editorial assistance was provided by AbbVie Inc. M. P. Diamond received research funding for the conduct of the study paid to the institution and is a consultant to AbbVie. He is a stockholder and board and director member of Advanced Reproductive Care. He has also received funding for study conduct paid to the institution for Bayer and ObsEva. E. A. Stewart participated as a site investigator in the phase 2 study of asoprisnil and served as a consultant to TAP Pharmaceuticals during the time of design and conduct of the studies while on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA. In the last 3 years, she has received support from National Institutes of Health grants HD063312, HS023418 and HD074711. She has served as a consultant for AbbVie Inc., Allergan, Bayer HealthCare AG and Myovant for consulting related to uterine leiomyoma and to Welltwigs for consulting related to infertility. She has received royalties from UpToDate and the Med Learning Group. A.R.W. Williams has acted as a consultant for TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc. and Repros Therapeutics Inc. He has current consultancies with PregLem SA, Gedeon Richter, HRA Pharma and Bayer. B.R. Carr has served as consultant and received research funding from AbbVie Inc. and Synteract (Medicines360). E.R. Myers has served as consultant for AbbVie Inc., Allergan and Bayer. R.A. Feldman received compensation for serving as a principal investigator and participating in the conduct of the trial. W. Elger was a co-inventor of several patents related to asoprisnil. C. Mattia-Goldberg is a former employee of AbbVie Inc. and owns AbbVie stock or stock options. B.M. Schwefel and K. Chwalisz are employees of AbbVie Inc. and own AbbVie stock or stock options. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00156195 at clinicaltrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - E A Stewart
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Surgery, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - A R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - B R Carr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - E R Myers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - R A Feldman
- Miami Research Associates, Miami, FL 33143, USA
| | - W Elger
- Evestra GmbH, Berlin-Dahlem, Germany
| | | | | | - K Chwalisz
- AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
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Hollis RL, Churchman M, Michie CO, Rye T, Knight L, McCavigan A, Perren T, Williams ARW, McCluggage WG, Kaplan RS, Jayson GC, Oza A, Harkin DP, Herrington CS, Kennedy R, Gourley C. High EMSY expression defines a BRCA-like subgroup of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma with prolonged survival and hypersensitivity to platinum. Cancer 2019; 125:2772-2781. [PMID: 31154673 PMCID: PMC6771827 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately half of high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOCs) demonstrate homologous recombination repair (HR) pathway defects, resulting in a distinct clinical phenotype comprising hypersensitivity to platinum, superior clinical outcome, and greater sensitivity to poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. EMSY, which is known to be amplified in breast and ovarian cancers, encodes a protein reported to bind and inactivate BRCA2. Thus, EMSY overexpression may mimic BRCA2 mutation, resulting in HR deficiency. However, to our knowledge, the phenotypic consequences of EMSY overexpression in HGSOC patients has not been explored. METHODS Here we investigate the impact of EMSY expression on clinical outcome and sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy using available data from transcriptomically characterized HGSOC cohorts. RESULTS High EMSY expression was associated with better clinical outcome in a cohort of 265 patients with HGSOC from Edinburgh (overall survival multivariable hazard ratio, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.38-0.88; P = .011] and progression-free survival multivariable hazard ratio, 0.62 [95% CI, 0.40-0.96; P = .030]). Superior outcome also was demonstrated in the Medical Research Council ICON7 clinical trial and multiple publicly available data sets. Patients within the Edinburgh cohort who had high EMSY expression were found to demonstrate greater rates of complete response to multiple platinum-containing chemotherapy regimens (radiological complete response rate of 44.4% vs 12.5% at second exposure; P = .035) and corresponding prolonged time to disease progression (median, 151.5 days vs 60.5 days after third platinum exposure; P = .004). CONCLUSIONS Patients with HGSOCs demonstrating high EMSY expression appear to experience prolonged survival and greater platinum sensitivity, reminiscent of BRCA-mutant cases. These data are consistent with the notion that EMSY overexpression may render HGSOCs HR deficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L. Hollis
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Michael Churchman
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Caroline O. Michie
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Tzyvia Rye
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | - Timothy Perren
- St. James's Institute of OncologySt. James's University HospitalLeedsUnited Kingdom
| | | | - W. Glenn McCluggage
- Center for Cancer Research and Cell BiologyQueen's University of BelfastBelfastUnited Kingdom
- Department of PathologyBelfast Health and Social Care TrustBelfastUnited Kingdom
| | - Richard S. Kaplan
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit at University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Gordon C. Jayson
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Cancer SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Amit Oza
- Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer CentreUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - D. Paul Harkin
- Almac DiagnosticsCraigavonUnited Kingdom
- Center for Cancer Research and Cell BiologyQueen's University of BelfastBelfastUnited Kingdom
| | - C. Simon Herrington
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
- Department of PathologyUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
- Division of Pathology, Centre for Comparative Pathology, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Richard Kennedy
- Almac DiagnosticsCraigavonUnited Kingdom
- Center for Cancer Research and Cell BiologyQueen's University of BelfastBelfastUnited Kingdom
| | - Charlie Gourley
- Nicola Murray Centre for Ovarian Cancer Research, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular MedicineUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
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Pan J, Kavanagh K, Cuschieri K, Pollock KG, Gilbert DC, Millan D, Bell S, Graham SV, Williams ARW, Cruickshank ME, Palmer T, Wakeham K. Increased risk of HPV-associated genital cancers in men and women as a consequence of pre-invasive disease. Int J Cancer 2019; 145:427-434. [PMID: 30650180 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To assess the excess risk of HPV-associated cancer (HPVaC) in two at-risk groups-women with a previous diagnosis of high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN3) and both men and women treated for non-cervical pre-invasive anogenital disease. All CIN3 cases diagnosed in 1989-2015 in Scotland were extracted from the Scottish cancer registry (SMR06). All cases of pre-invasive penile, anal, vulval, and vaginal disease diagnosed in 1990-2015 were identified within the NHS pathology databases in the two largest NHS health boards in Scotland. Both were linked to SMR06 to extract subsequent incidence of HPVaC following the diagnosis of CIN3 or pre-invasive disease. Standardised incidence ratios were calculated for the risk of acquiring HPVaC for the two at-risk groups compared to the general Scottish population. Among 69,714 females in Scotland diagnosed with CIN3 (890,360.9 person-years), 179 developed non-cervical HPVaC. CIN3 cases were at 3.2-fold (95% CI: 2.7 to 3.7) increased risk of developing non-cervical HPVaC, compared to the general female population. Among 1,235 patients diagnosed with non-cervical pre-invasive disease (9,667.4 person-years), 47 developed HPVaC. Individuals with non-cervical pre-invasive disease had a substantially increased risk of developing HPVaC - 15.5-fold (95% CI: 11.1 to 21.1) increased risk for females and 28-fold (11.3 to 57.7) increased risk for males. We report a significant additional risk of HPV-associated cancer in those have been diagnosed with pre-invasive HPV-associated lesions including but not confined to the cervix. Uncovering the natural history of pre-invasive disease has potential for determining screening, prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiafeng Pan
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Kimberley Kavanagh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland.,Information Services Division, NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Kate Cuschieri
- Scottish HPV Reference Laboratory, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Kevin G Pollock
- Vaccine Preventable Diseases, Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, Scotland.,School of Health & Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Duncan C Gilbert
- Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, Scotland
| | - David Millan
- Department of Pathology, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Sarah Bell
- Department of Pathology, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Sheila V Graham
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | | | - Margaret E Cruickshank
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, 2nd Floor, Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, Aberdeen, Scotland
| | - Tim Palmer
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Katie Wakeham
- Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, Scotland.,Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
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9
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Xintaropoulou C, Ward C, Wise A, Queckborner S, Turnbull A, Michie CO, Williams ARW, Rye T, Gourley C, Langdon SP. Expression of glycolytic enzymes in ovarian cancers and evaluation of the glycolytic pathway as a strategy for ovarian cancer treatment. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:636. [PMID: 29866066 PMCID: PMC5987622 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4521-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel therapeutic approaches are required to treat ovarian cancer and dependency on glycolysis may provide new targets for treatment. This study sought to investigate the variation of expression of molecular components (GLUT1, HKII, PKM2, LDHA) of the glycolytic pathway in ovarian cancers and the effectiveness of targeting this pathway in ovarian cancer cell lines with inhibitors. METHODS Expression of GLUT1, HKII, PKM2, LDHA were analysed by quantitative immunofluorescence in a tissue microarray (TMA) analysis of 380 ovarian cancers and associations with clinicopathological features were sought. The effect of glycolysis pathway inhibitors on the growth of a panel of ovarian cancer cell lines was assessed by use of the SRB proliferation assay. Combination studies were undertaken combining these inhibitors with cytotoxic agents. RESULTS Mean expression levels of GLUT1 and HKII were higher in high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the most frequently occurring subtype, than in non-HGSOC. GLUT1 expression was also significantly higher in advanced stage (III/IV) ovarian cancer than early stage (I/II) disease. Growth dependency of ovarian cancer cells on glucose was demonstrated in a panel of ovarian cancer cell lines. Inhibitors of the glycolytic pathway (STF31, IOM-1190, 3PO and oxamic acid) attenuated cell proliferation in platinum-sensitive and platinum-resistant HGSOC cell line models in a concentration dependent manner. In combination with either cisplatin or paclitaxel, 3PO (a novel PFKFB3 inhibitor) enhanced the cytotoxic effect in both platinum sensitive and platinum resistant ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, synergy was identified between STF31 (a novel GLUT1 inhibitor) or oxamic acid (an LDH inhibitor) when combined with metformin, an inhibitor of oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in marked inhibition of ovarian cancer cell growth. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study provide further support for targeting the glycolytic pathway in ovarian cancer and several useful combinations were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysi Xintaropoulou
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Division of Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Carol Ward
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Division of Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
| | - Alan Wise
- IOmet Pharma (a wholly owned subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ USA, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada) Nine Edinburgh Bioquarter, Little France Road, Edinburgh, EH16 4UX UK
| | - Suzanna Queckborner
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Division of Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Arran Turnbull
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Division of Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Caroline O. Michie
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Alistair R. W. Williams
- Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh Medical School, 51 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA UK
| | - Tzyvia Rye
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Charlie Gourley
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
| | - Simon P. Langdon
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Division of Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU UK
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10
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Bhatia R, Kavanagh K, Stewart J, Moncur S, Serrano I, Cong D, Cubie HA, Haas JG, Busby-Earle C, Williams ARW, Howie SEM, Cuschieri K. Host chemokine signature as a biomarker for the detection of pre-cancerous cervical lesions. Oncotarget 2018; 9:18548-18558. [PMID: 29719625 PMCID: PMC5915092 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ability to distinguish which hrHPV infections predispose to significant disease is ever more pressing as a result of the increasing move to hrHPV testing for primary cervical screening. A risk-stratifier or “triage” of infection should ideally be objective and suitable for automation given the scale of screening. Results CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CXCL1, CXCL8 and CXCL12 emerged as the strongest, candidate biomarkers to detect underlying disease [cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+)]. For CIN2+, CCL2 had the highest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.722 with a specificity of 82%. A combined biomarker panel of six chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CXCL1, CXCL8, and CXCL12 provides a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 67%. Conclusion The present work demonstrates that the levels of five chemokine-proteins are indicative of underlying disease. We demonstrate technical feasibility and promising clinical performance of a chemokine-based biomarker panel, equivalent to that of other triage options. Further assessment in longitudinal series is now warranted. Methods A panel of 31 chemokines were investigated for expression in routinely taken archived and prospective cervical liquid based cytology (LBC) samples using Human Chemokine Proteomic Array kit. Nine chemokines were further validated using Procartaplex assay on the Luminex platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Bhatia
- Human Papillomavirus Research Group, Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kim Kavanagh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Strathclyde University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - June Stewart
- Centre for Inflammation research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon Moncur
- Centre for Inflammation research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Itziar Serrano
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Duanduan Cong
- Centre for Inflammation research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Heather A Cubie
- Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Juergen G Haas
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Camille Busby-Earle
- Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R W Williams
- Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah E M Howie
- Centre for Inflammation research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Cuschieri
- Scottish HPV Reference Laboratory, NHS Lothian, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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11
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Kannan A, Bhurke A, Sitruk-Ware R, Lalitkumar PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Williams ARW, Taylor RN, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Characterization of Molecular Changes in Endometrium Associated With Chronic Use of Progesterone Receptor Modulators: Ulipristal Acetate Versus Mifepristone. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:320-328. [PMID: 29241443 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117746764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [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: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator (PRM), which is used as an emergency contraceptive in women. Recent studies demonstrated the efficacy of an UPA contraceptive vaginal ring (UPA-CVR) as a blocker of ovulation. However, the endometrium of women exposed to UPA over a 6-month period display glandular changes, termed PRM-associated endometrial changes (PAECs). We, therefore, investigated whether UPA-induced PAECs are associated with altered expression of the transcription factor heart- and neural crest derivatives-expressed protein 2 (HAND2) whose downregulation is observed in endometrial epithelial hyperplasia and cancer. Our results showed that while exposure to mifepristone, a well-known PRM, leads to suppression of endometrial HAND2 expression, long-term exposure to UPA-CVR did not cause downregulation of this marker. Further studies, using human primary endometrial stromal cells, confirmed that whereas mifepristone-mediated suppression of HAND2 elevated the levels of its downstream target fibroblast growth factor 18, UPA did not significantly alter the expression of this growth factor. A rationale for the differential regulation of HAND2 by these PRMs was provided by our observation that mifepristone-bound progesterone receptors turn over at a faster rate than those bound to UPA. Collectively, these results support the selective effects of different PRMs and indicate that chronic exposure to UPA does not alter the HAND2 pathway whose dysregulation is linked to complex atypical endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. The results from this study involving a limited number of clinical samples should pave the way for a larger study to determine the safety of UPA for long-term use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athilakshmi Kannan
- 1 Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Arpita Bhurke
- 1 Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert N Taylor
- 5 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- 6 Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- 1 Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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12
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Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the commonest benign tumours of women and affect all races with a cumulative lifetime risk of around 70%. Despite their high prevalence and the heavy economic burden of treatment, fibroids have received remarkably little attention compared to common female malignant tumours. This article reviews recent progress in understanding the biological nature of fibroids, their life cycle and their molecular genetic origins. Recent progress in surgical and interventional management is briefly reviewed, and medical management options, including treatment with selective progesterone receptor modulators, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh, 51 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK
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13
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Cuschieri K, Brewster DH, Graham C, Nicoll S, Williams ARW, Murray GI, Millan D, Johannessen I, Hardie A, Cubie HA. Influence of HPV type on prognosis in patients diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer. Int J Cancer 2014; 135:2721-6. [PMID: 24740764 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [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: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
While much is known about the influence of HPV type on the progression of pre-invasive cervical lesions, the impact of HPV type on cervical cancer prognosis is less evidenced. Thus, we assessed the impact of HPV type on the survival of women diagnosed with cervical cancer. A total of 370 cases of cervical cancer were assessed. Univariate analysis is presented using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank statistics and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were generated using age group, socio-economic deprivation, FIGO stage, differentiation and HPV type. HPV grouping was considered in a number of ways with particular reference to the presence or absence of HPV 16 and/or 18. In the univariate analysis, FIGO, age at diagnosis and treatment were associated with poorer survival (p < 0.0001) as was absence of HPV 16 and/or 18 (p = 0.0460). The 25% mortality time in the non-HPV 16/18 vs. HPV16/18 positive group was 615 days and 1,307 days respectively. An unadjusted Cox PH model based HPV16/18 vs. no HPV 16/18 resulted in a hazard ratio of 0.669 (0.450, 0.995). Adjusting for deprivation, FIGO and age group resulted in a hazard ratio of 0.609 (0.395, 0.941) p = 0.025. These data indicate that cancers associated with HPV 16 and/or 18 do not confer worse survival compared to cancers associated with other types, and may indicate improved survival. Consequently, although HPV vaccine is likely to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer it may not indirectly improve cervical cancer survival by reducing the burden of those cancers caused by HPV16/18.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Cuschieri
- Scottish HPV Reference Laboratory, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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14
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Wilkens J, Male V, Ghazal P, Forster T, Gibson DA, Williams ARW, Brito-Mutunayagam SL, Craigon M, Lourenco P, Cameron IT, Chwalisz K, Moffett A, Critchley HOD. Uterine NK cells regulate endometrial bleeding in women and are suppressed by the progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil. J Immunol 2013; 191:2226-35. [PMID: 23913972 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1300958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Uterine NK cells (uNK) play a role in the regulation of placentation, but their functions in nonpregnant endometrium are not understood. We have previously reported suppression of endometrial bleeding and alteration of spiral artery morphology in women exposed to asoprisnil, a progesterone receptor modulator. We now compare global endometrial gene expression in asoprisnil-treated versus control women, and we demonstrate a statistically significant reduction of genes in the IL-15 pathway, known to play a key role in uNK development and function. Suppression of IL-15 by asoprisnil was also observed at mRNA level (p < 0.05), and immunostaining for NK cell marker CD56 revealed a striking reduction of uNK in asoprisnil-treated endometrium (p < 0.001). IL-15 levels in normal endometrium are progesterone-responsive. Progesterone receptor (PR) positive stromal cells transcribe both IL-15 and IL-15RA. Thus, the response of stromal cells to progesterone will be to increase IL-15 trans-presentation to uNK, supporting their expansion and differentiation. In asoprisnil-treated endometrium, there is a marked downregulation of stromal PR expression and virtual absence of uNK. These novel findings indicate that the IL-15 pathway provides a missing link in the complex interplay among endometrial stromal cells, uNK, and spiral arteries affecting physiologic and pathologic endometrial bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wilkens
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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15
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Pohl O, Williams ARW, Bergeron C, Gotteland JP. A 39-week oral toxicity study of ulipristal acetate in cynomolgus monkeys. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2013; 66:6-12. [PMID: 23474274 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2013.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a novel Progesterone Receptor Modulator (PRM) and registered for the pre-operative treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids during 3months. In a study which assessed the potential toxicity of UPA in female cynomolgus monkeys following daily oral administration of 1, 5, or 25mg/kg for 39weeks, UPA was well tolerated with dose-dependent macroscopic and microscopic observations limited to the uterus and oviducts. These findings were considered to be related to the pharmacological action of UPA and showed evidence of partial reversibility. Findings in the endometrium were similar to PRM-associated-endometrial-changes (PAEC) described in PRM-treated women. No adverse effects were found that would raise concerns about potential pre-malignancy. Although the translation of these findings to human is limited by the small study size and species differences, these results from animals chronically exposed to up to 150times the clinical UPA exposure are considered significant and supportive to the chronic administration of UPA for more than 3months in women of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Pohl
- PregLem S.A., Chemin du Pré-Fleuri 3, CH-1228 Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland.
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16
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Sales KJ, Maldonado-Pérez D, Grant V, Catalano RD, Wilson MR, Brown P, Williams ARW, Anderson RA, Thompson EA, Jabbour HN. Prostaglandin F(2alpha)-F-prostanoid receptor regulates CXCL8 expression in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells via the calcium-calcineurin-NFAT pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta 2009; 1793:1917-28. [PMID: 19819266 PMCID: PMC2806519 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2009.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pro-inflammatory mediators, like prostaglandin (PG) and chemokines, promote tumourigenesis by enhancing cell proliferation, migration of immune cells and recruitment of blood vessels. Recently we showed elevated expression of the chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 2 (CXCR2) in endometrial adenocarcinomas localized to neutrophils and neoplastic epithelial and vascular cells. Furthermore we found that PGF2α-F-prostanoid (FP) receptor regulates the expression of the CXCR2 ligand CXCL1, to promote neutrophil chemotaxis in endometrial adenocarcinomas. In the present study we identified another CXCR2 ligand, CXCL8 as a target for PGF2α-FP receptor signalling which enhances epithelial cell proliferation in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells in vitro and in nude mice in vivo. We found that PGF2α-FP receptor interaction induces CXCL8 expression in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells via the protein kinase C–calcium–calcineurin–NFAT signaling pathway. Promoter analysis revealed that CXCL8 transcriptional activation by PGF2α signaling is mediated by cooperative interactions between the AP1 and NFAT binding sites. Furthermore, PGF2α via the FP receptor induced the expression of the regulator of calcineurin 1 isoform 4 (RCAN1-4) via the calcineurin/NFAT pathway in a reciprocal manner to CXCL8. Using an adenovirus to overexpress RCAN1-4, we found that RCAN1-4 is a negative regulator of CXCL8 expression in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells. Taken together our data have elucidated the molecular and cellular mechanism whereby PGF2α regulates CXCL8 expression via the FP receptor in endometrial adenocarcinomas and have highlighted RCAN1-4 as a negative regulator of CXCL8 expression which may be exploited therapeutically to inhibit CXCL8-mediated tumour development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt J Sales
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
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17
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Collins F, MacPherson S, Brown P, Bombail V, Williams ARW, Anderson RA, Jabbour HN, Saunders PTK. Expression of oestrogen receptors, ERalpha, ERbeta, and ERbeta variants, in endometrial cancers and evidence that prostaglandin F may play a role in regulating expression of ERalpha. BMC Cancer 2009; 9:330. [PMID: 19758455 PMCID: PMC2755482 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-9-330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 09/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological malignancy; risk factors include exposure to oestrogens and high body mass index. Expression of enzymes involved in biosynthesis of oestrogens and prostaglandins (PG) is often higher in endometrial cancers when compared with levels detected in normal endometrium. Oestrogens bind one of two receptors (ERα and ERβ) encoded by separate genes. The full-length receptors function as ligand-activated transcription factors; splice variant isoforms of ERβ lacking a ligand-binding domain have also been described. PGs act in an autocrine or paracrine manner by binding to specific G-protein coupled receptors. Methods We compared expression of ERs, progesterone receptor (PR) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in stage 1 endometrial adenocarcinomas graded as well (G1), moderately (G2) or poorly (G3) differentiated (n ≥ 10 each group) using qRTPCR, single and double immunohistochemistry. We used endometrial adenocarcinoma cell lines to investigate the impact of PGF2α on expression of ERs and PR. Results Full length ERβ (ERβ1) and two ERβ variants (ERβ2, ERβ5) were expressed in endometrial cancers regardless of grade and the proteins were immunolocalised to the nuclei of cells in both epithelial and stromal compartments. Immunoexpression of COX-2 was most intense in cells that were ERαneg/low. Expression of PR in endometrial adenocarcinoma (Ishikawa) cell lines and tissues broadly paralleled that of ERα. Treatment of adenocarcinoma cells with PGF2α reduced expression of ERα but had no impact on ERβ1. Cells incubated with PGF2α were unable to increase expression of PR mRNA when they were incubated with E2. Conclusion We have demonstrated that ERβ5 protein is expressed in stage 1 endometrial adenocarcinomas. Expression of three ERβ variants, including the full-length protein is not grade-dependent and most cells in poorly differentiated cancers are ERβpos/ERαneg. We found evidence of a link between COX-2, its product PGF2α, and expression of ERα and PR that sheds new light on the cross talk between steroid and PG signalling pathways in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Collins
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The University of Edinburgh Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hamilton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St John's Hospital at Howden, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland, UK
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19
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Wallace AE, Sales KJ, Catalano RD, Anderson RA, Williams ARW, Wilson MR, Schwarze J, Wang H, Rossi AG, Jabbour HN. Prostaglandin F2alpha-F-prostanoid receptor signaling promotes neutrophil chemotaxis via chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 in endometrial adenocarcinoma. Cancer Res 2009; 69:5726-33. [PMID: 19549892 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) receptor (FP) is elevated in endometrial adenocarcinoma. This study found that PGF(2alpha) signaling via FP regulates expression of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells. Expression of CXCL1 and its receptor, CXCR2, are elevated in cancer tissue compared with normal endometrium and localized to glandular epithelium, endothelium, and stroma. Treatment of Ishikawa cells stably transfected with the FP receptor (FPS cells) with 100 nmol/L PGF(2alpha) increased CXCL1 promoter activity, mRNA, and protein expression, and these effects were abolished by cotreatment of cells with FP antagonist or chemical inhibitors of Gq, epidermal growth factor receptor, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Similarly, CXCL1 was elevated in response to 100 nmol/L PGF(2alpha) in endometrial adenocarcinoma explant tissue. CXCL1 is a potent neutrophil chemoattractant. The expression of CXCR2 colocalized to neutrophils in endometrial adenocarcinoma and increased neutrophils were present in endometrial adenocarcinoma compared with normal endometrium. Conditioned media from PGF(2alpha)-treated FPS cells stimulated neutrophil chemotaxis, which could be abolished by CXCL1 protein immunoneutralization of the conditioned media or antagonism of CXCR2. Finally, xenograft tumors in nude mice arising from inoculation with FPS cells showed increased neutrophil infiltration compared with tumors arising from wild-type cells or following treatment of mice bearing FPS tumors with CXCL1-neutralizing antibody. In conclusion, our results show a novel PGF(2alpha)-FP pathway that may regulate the inflammatory microenvironment in endometrial adenocarcinoma via neutrophil chemotaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E Wallace
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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20
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Engman M, Granberg S, Williams ARW, Meng CX, Lalitkumar PGL, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Mifepristone for treatment of uterine leiomyoma. A prospective randomized placebo controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1870-9. [PMID: 19389793 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomas are widely prevalent and frequently cause menorrhagia. The major therapeutic option today is hysterectomy. Medical options are of highest interest. METHODS A total of 30 women with uterine leiomyomas scheduled for surgical intervention were randomized to receive either 50 mg mifepristone or placebo every other day during 3 months prior to surgery. Uterine blood flow and leiomyoma volume were evaluated once a month until surgery. Endometrial biopsies were obtained prior to and at end of treatment. Relevant biochemistry, symptoms and bleeding were recorded. Primary outcome was reduction in uterine leiomyoma size. RESULTS There was a significant percentual decrease (P = 0.021) in the total leiomyoma volume in the mifepristone-treated group, -28 (-48, -8) % (mean +/- 0, 95 confidence interval), compared with the control group values 6 (-13, 25) %. Mifepristone treatment significantly reduced the bleeding days (P = 0.001) and increased serum haemoglobin values (P = 0.046). Serum cortisol levels remained unchanged, while a mild increase in serum androgens was noted. Endometrial biopsies showed no premalignant changes or changes in mitotic indices. CONCLUSION Mifepristone may offer an effective treatment option for women with uterine leiomyoma and the associated pronounced uterovaginal bleeding. Clinical Trials identifier: www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00579475.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Engman
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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Wilkens J, Williams ARW, Chwalisz K, Han C, Cameron IT, Critchley HOD. Effect of asoprisnil on uterine proliferation markers and endometrial expression of the tumour suppressor gene, PTEN. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1036-44. [PMID: 19176543 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil suppresses uterine bleeding and decreases leiomyoma volume while maintaining follicular phase estrogen concentrations. For safety of potential clinical applications, any proliferative effect of asoprisnil on uterine tissues, particularly endometrium, needs to be established. METHODS In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study (continuation of previously published trial No. NCT00150644 (Williams et al., 2007 and Wilkens et al., 2008)), 33 patients with symptomatic uterine leiomyomata received placebo, 10 or 25 mg asoprisnil daily for 12 weeks before hysterectomy. Proliferation markers Ki-67 and anti-phospho-histone H3 (PH3) were immunolocalized in endometrium, myometrium and leiomyoma tissue. Endometrial PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue, a tumour suppressor gene) expression was also assessed by immunohistochemistry. PH3-positive glandular and stromal cells were counted per measured endometrial area. Endometrial Ki-67 expression was assessed using stereological methods. Stained myometrial and leiomyoma cells were counted per 10 fields (x250). PTEN immunostaining was quantified using a histoscore. Each asoprisnil group was compared with placebo (secretory phase) with significance at 0.05 level. RESULTS Endometrial epithelial proliferation and PTEN expression were not significantly different between placebo and asoprisnil groups. Decreased stromal Ki-67 expression (P < 0.05) suggested any effect of asoprisnil on endometrial proliferation to be inhibitory. Immunolocalization of PTEN expression was not different between treatment groups in any tissue compartments. Myometrial Ki-67 expression decreased following asoprisnil 25 mg (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Asoprisnil does not induce proliferation of uterine tissues and does not suppress endometrial PTEN expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wilkens
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Horne AW, Phillips JA, Kane N, Lourenco PC, McDonald SE, Williams ARW, Simon C, Dey SK, Critchley HOD. CB1 expression is attenuated in Fallopian tube and decidua of women with ectopic pregnancy. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3969. [PMID: 19093002 PMCID: PMC2601032 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 10/01/2008] [Accepted: 11/07/2008] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Embryo retention in the Fallopian tube (FT) is thought to lead to ectopic pregnancy (EP), a considerable cause of morbidity. In mice, genetic/pharmacological silencing of cannabinoid receptor Cnr1, encoding CB1, causes retention of embryos in the oviduct. The role of the endocannabinoids in tubal implantation in humans is not known. Methods and Findings Timed FT biopsies (n = 18) were collected from women undergoing gynecological procedures for benign conditions. Endometrial biopsies and whole blood were collected from women undergoing surgery for EP (n = 11); management of miscarriage (n = 6), and termination of pregnancy (n = 8). Using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, CB1 mRNA and protein expression levels/patterns were examined in FT and endometrial biopsies. The distribution of two polymorphisms of CNR1 was examined by TaqMan analysis of genomic DNA from the whole blood samples. In normal FT, CB1 mRNA was higher in luteal compared to follicular-phase (p<0.05). CB1 protein was located in smooth muscle of the wall and of endothelial vessels, and luminal epithelium of FT. In FT from women with EP, CB1 mRNA expression was low. CB1 mRNA expression was also significantly lower (p<0.05) in endometrium of women with EP compared to intrauterine pregnancies (IUP). Although of 1359G/A (rs1049353) polymorphisms of CNR1 gene suggests differential distribution of genotypes between the small, available cohorts of women with EP and those with IUP, results were not statistically significant. Conclusions CB1 mRNA shows temporal variation in expression in human FT, likely regulated by progesterone. CB1 mRNA is expressed in low levels in both the FT and endometrium of women with EP. We propose that aberrant endocannabinoid-signaling in human FT leads to EP. Furthermore, our finding of reduced mRNA expression along with a possible association between polymorphism genotypes of the CNR1 gene and EP, suggests a possible genetic predisposition to EP that warrants replication in a larger sample pool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W. Horne
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - John A. Phillips
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Nicole Kane
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Paula C. Lourenco
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah E. McDonald
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R. W. Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Simon
- Fundación IVI (FIVI)-Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI)-Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sudhansu K. Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Research Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Hilary O. D. Critchley
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Wilkens J, Chwalisz K, Han C, Walker J, Cameron IT, Ingamells S, Lawrence AC, Lumsden MA, Hapangama D, Williams ARW, Critchley HOD. Effects of the selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil on uterine artery blood flow, ovarian activity, and clinical symptoms in patients with uterine leiomyomata scheduled for hysterectomy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:4664-71. [PMID: 18765509 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-1104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asoprisnil, a novel orally active selective progesterone receptor modulator, is being studied for the management of symptomatic uterine leiomyomata. The exact mechanism of action is not yet discerned. The primary objectives of this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study included evaluation of the effect of asoprisnil on uterine artery blood flow. Furthermore, we assessed effects of asoprisnil on leiomyoma symptoms. PATIENTS AND METHODS Thirty-three premenopausal patients scheduled for hysterectomy due to symptomatic uterine leiomyomata were recruited in four centers and treated with 10 or 25 mg asoprisnil or placebo for 12 wk before surgery. At baseline and before hysterectomy, all patients underwent sonographic assessment to measure impedance to uterine artery blood flow, determined by resistance index and pulsatility index, as well as volumes of largest leiomyoma and uterus. In addition, patients recorded intensity and frequency of menstrual bleeding on a menstrual pictogram. Each asoprisnil treatment was compared with placebo. RESULTS The increased pulsatility index in both asoprisnil groups and the statistically significantly increased resistance index within the 25-mg asoprisnil group suggest a moderately decreased uterine artery blood flow. Analysis of menstrual pictogram scores showed a statistically significant larger decrease in frequency and intensity of bleeding for both asoprisnil groups compared with placebo. Bleeding was suppressed by asoprisnil 25mg in 91% of patients. Asoprisnil treatment was well tolerated when administered daily for a 12-wk period, and no serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION Asoprisnil moderately reduced uterine artery blood flow. This effect may contribute in part to the clinical effects of asoprisnil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wilkens
- Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare factors influencing adequacy of endometrial samples obtained using two outpatient sampling devices--Pipelle and Tao Brush. DESIGN Pragmatic unblinded trial with investigation schedule randomised separately within two groups according to endometrial cancer risk. SETTING Gynaecology outpatient clinic of a large city hospital in Edinburgh, Scotland. POPULATION All women referred to a gynaecology outpatient clinic during a 28-month period complaining of abnormal vaginal bleeding. METHODS Women were assigned to two 'risk groups' for endometrial cancer ('high risk' for postmenopausal women and 'moderate risk' for premenopausal women aged over 40 years or with other risk factors). Women in each risk group had both types of biopsy and were randomised to two outpatient visualisations: hysteroscopy and/or transvaginal ultrasound scan. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Completion of the investigation, adequacy of sample and acceptability of investigation to women. RESULTS In 200 high-risk women, adequate samples were significantly more likely to be obtained by Tao Brush than Pipelle (P < 0.001). Nulliparity was strongly associated with failed insertion for both devices (P < 0.001). Inadequate samples were strongly associated with postmenopausal status only for Pipelle (P < 0.001), and among premenopausal women, for both samplers, with nulliparity (P < 0.001). A significantly greater proportion of women preferred the Tao Brush to the Pipelle endometrial sampler (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In postmenopausal women, Tao Brush sampling offers advantages over use of Pipelle, and the former should be considered as an alternative or additional sampling device in this group of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Mutter GL, Bergeron C, Deligdisch L, Ferenczy A, Glant M, Merino M, Williams ARW, Blithe DL. The spectrum of endometrial pathology induced by progesterone receptor modulators. Mod Pathol 2008; 21:591-8. [PMID: 18246050 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2008.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone receptor modulators (PRM) are hormonally active drugs effective in the management of endometriosis and uterine leiomyomata. The endometrial effects of progestin blockade by PRMs in premenopausal women are currently being evaluated in several clinical trials, but few pathologists have had access to these materials and published information of the histological changes is scanty. Eighty-four endometrial specimens from women receiving one of four different PRMs were reviewed by a panel of seven experienced gynecologic pathologists to develop consensus observations and interpretive recommendations as part of an NIH-sponsored workshop. Although the pathologists were blinded to agent, dose, and exposure interval, the review was intended to provide an overview of the breadth of possible findings, and a venue to describe unique features. Endometrial histology included inactive and normal-appearing cycling endometrium. Overtly premalignant lesions (atypical hyperplasia or EIN) were not seen. In a subset of cases, asymmetry of stromal and epithelial growth resulted in prominent cystically dilated glands with admixed estrogen (mitotic) and progestin (secretory) epithelial effects of a type not encountered in contemporary clinical practice. The variety of endometrial appearances suggested that findings might differ by agent and dose over time according to relationships that must be specified for each agent. The constellation of changes seen in those endometria with cystically dilated glands is so novel that new terminology and diagnostic criteria are required for pathologists to recognize them. The panel has designated these changes as PRM-associated endometrial changes (PAEC). Additional follow-up studies will be needed to fully define their natural history and relationship to specific agents and administration regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- George L Mutter
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Smyth JF, Gourley C, Walker G, MacKean MJ, Stevenson A, Williams ARW, Nafussi AA, Rye T, Rye R, Stewart M, McCurdy J, Mano M, Reed N, McMahon T, Vasey P, Gabra H, Langdon SP. Antiestrogen therapy is active in selected ovarian cancer cases: the use of letrozole in estrogen receptor-positive patients. Clin Cancer Res 2007; 13:3617-22. [PMID: 17575226 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-06-2878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy of the aromatase inhibitor letrozole in preselected estrogen receptor (ER)-positive relapsed epithelial ovarian cancer patients and to identify markers that predict endocrine-sensitive disease. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN This was a phase II study of letrozole 2.5 mg daily until clinical or marker evidence of disease progression in previously treated ER-positive ovarian cancer patients with a rising CA125 that had progressed according to Rustin's criteria. The primary end point was response according to CA125 and response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) criteria. Marker expression was measured by semiquantitative immunohistochemistry in sections from the primary tumor. RESULTS Of 42 patients evaluable for CA125 response, 7 (17%) had a response (decrease of >50%), and 11 (26%) patients had not progressed (doubling of CA125) following 6 months on treatment. The median time taken to achieve the CA125 nadir was 13 weeks (range 10-36). Of 33 patients evaluable for radiological response, 3 (9%) had a partial remission, and 14 (42%) had stable disease at 12 weeks. Eleven patients (26%) had a PFS of >6 months. Subgroup analysis according to ER revealed CA125 response rates of 0% (immunoscore, 150-199), 12% (200-249), and 33% (250-300); P = 0.028, chi(2) for trend. Expression levels of HER2, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5, trefoil factor 1, and vimentin were associated with CA125 changes on treatment. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study of a hormonal agent in a preselected group of ER-positive ovarian cancer patients. A signature of predictive markers, including low HER2 expression, predicts response.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Smyth
- Cancer Research UK Centre, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Vani S, McDonald SE, Williams ARW, Mason JI, Thong KJ, Critchley HOD. Mid-luteal endometrial intracrinology following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation involving use of a gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist. Hum Reprod 2007; 22:2981-91. [PMID: 17848403 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dem269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are concerns of reduced pregnancy rates with the use of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists (GnRH antagonists) in IVF/ICSI cycles. Sex steroids and their metabolizing enzymes in the endometrium may play a vital role in embryo implantation. This study has evaluated the levels and localization of sex-steroid receptors and metabolizing enzymes, 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (3betaHSD) and selected 17beta-HSD (17betaHSD), in mid-luteal endometrium of women treated with GnRH antagonist (Cetrorelix) and recombinant FSH (rFSH; Gonal-F) with luteal phase progesterone supplementation. METHODS Mid-luteal phase endometrial biopsies were obtained from oocyte donors undergoing ovarian stimulation and from control women with regular periods. Immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) were used to compare protein and mRNA expression of progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha), estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta), androgen receptor (AR), 3betaHSD1, 3betaHSD2, 17betaHSD2 and 17betaHSD5. RESULTS Cetrorelix-rFSH treatment caused a mid-luteal suppression of PR protein expression in the endometrial stroma, surface epithelium and glands, although expression in the glands of control samples was variable. In contrast, the treatment caused an increase in PR staining in perivascular cells. No other significant differences in protein expression were observed between the two groups. mRNA levels of AR, ERalpha, 3betaHSD1 and 17betaHSD2 were significantly reduced in the treatment group. PR mRNA levels were also reduced by GnRH antagonist-rFSH treatment, but the difference was not significant. CONCLUSIONS Changes in the expression of sex-steroid receptors and metabolizing enzymes may lead to alterations in the activity and intracellular availability of estrogens, progestogens and androgens in endometrium of women treated with Cetrorelix and rFSH. Their impact on embryo implantation merits further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susheel Vani
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Sales KJ, Boddy SC, Williams ARW, Anderson RA, Jabbour HN. F-prostanoid receptor regulation of fibroblast growth factor 2 signaling in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells. Endocrinology 2007; 148:3635-44. [PMID: 17478553 DOI: 10.1210/en.2006-1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin (PG) F(2alpha) is a potent bioactive lipid in the female reproductive tract, and exerts its function after coupling with its heptahelical G-protein-coupled receptor [F-series-prostanoid (FP) receptor] to initiate cell signaling and target gene transcription. In the present study, we found elevated expression of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 2, FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1), and FP receptor, colocalized within the neoplastic epithelial cells of endometrial adenocarcinomas. We investigated a role for PGF(2alpha)-FP receptor interaction in modulating FGF2 expression and signaling using an endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line stably expressing the FP receptor to the levels detected in endometrial adenocarcinomas (FPS cells) and endometrial adenocarcinoma tissue explants. PGF(2alpha)-FP receptor activation rapidly induced FGF2 mRNA expression, and elevated FGF2 protein expression and secretion into the culture medium in FPS cells and endometrial adenocarcinoma explants. The effect of PGF(2alpha) on the expression and secretion of FGF2 could be abolished by treatment of FPS cells and endometrial tissues with an FP receptor antagonist (AL8810) and inhibitor of ERK (PD98059). Furthermore, we have shown that FGF2 can promote the expression of FGF2 and cyclooxygenase-2, and enhance proliferation of endometrial adenocarcinoma cells via the FGFR1 and ERK pathways, thereby establishing a positive feedback loop to regulate neoplastic epithelial cell function in endometrial adenocarcinomas.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/metabolism
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Adult
- Aged
- Autocrine Communication/physiology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cells, Cultured
- Cyclooxygenase 2/metabolism
- Dinoprost/metabolism
- Dinoprost/pharmacology
- Endometrial Neoplasms/metabolism
- Endometrial Neoplasms/pathology
- Endometrium/cytology
- Endometrium/physiology
- Epithelial Cells/metabolism
- Epithelial Cells/pathology
- Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases/metabolism
- Feedback, Physiological/physiology
- Female
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/physiology
- Humans
- MAP Kinase Signaling System/physiology
- Middle Aged
- Paracrine Communication/physiology
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/metabolism
- Receptors, Prostaglandin/genetics
- Receptors, Prostaglandin/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt J Sales
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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Walker G, MacLeod K, Williams ARW, Cameron DA, Smyth JF, Langdon SP. Estrogen-regulated gene expression predicts response to endocrine therapy in patients with ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2007; 106:461-8. [PMID: 17624412 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2007.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Accepted: 05/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the predictive value of estrogen-regulated gene changes as indicators of sensitivity in ovarian cancer patients treated with the aromatase inhibitor Letrozole. METHODS Expression of a range of proteins was assessed by semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry in tissue sections from the tumors of patients treated with Letrozole. Expression was correlated with clinical response to Letrozole. Corresponding mRNA in ovarian cancer cell lines treated with 17beta-estradiol (E2) was measured by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS In an estrogen receptor (ER)-positive ovarian cancer cell line, quantitative RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that PLAU, VIM, BIGH3, CDH6, FN1, CASP4, KRT4, KRT7, KRT13, TRAM and NGAL were down-regulated and TFF1, TFF3, TRAP1, TFAP4, MYC, CTSD, IL17BR, TOP2A, CCNB1, CCNB2, PDZK1 and UBE2C were up-regulated by E2. The E2 modulation of these genes was reversed by the anti-estrogen tamoxifen and was ERalpha-dependent. For ovarian cancer patients treated with Letrozole, we tested the predictive value of the majority of these genes in paraffin sections from their primary tumors by semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry. Significant differences in expression levels of TFF1, TFF3, BIGH3, TRAP1, VIM, TOP2A, PLAU and UBE2C were observed between tumors from CA125 responsive/stable patients as opposed to tumors from patients whose disease progressed, using serum levels of CA125 as an indicator of response. Aromatase expression in the ovarian cancers also differed between these 2 groups of patients. CONCLUSION These results suggest that expression levels of certain proteins in ovarian cancers are estrogen-regulated and could help identify patients who would benefit from endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Walker
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, and Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Lakha F, Ho PC, Van der Spuy ZM, Dada K, Elton R, Glasier AF, Critchley HOD, Williams ARW, Baird DT. A novel estrogen-free oral contraceptive pill for women: multicentre, double-blind, randomized controlled trial of mifepristone and progestogen-only pill (levonorgestrel). Hum Reprod 2007; 22:2428-36. [PMID: 17609247 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dem177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acceptability and continuation rate of oral contraceptive steroids are limited by unpredictable bleeding and the fear of long-term risks such as breast cancer. By inhibiting ovulation and by altering the receptivity of the endometrium, antagonists of progesterone, such as mifepristone, could be developed as estrogen-free novel contraceptives. METHODS Multicentre, double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing frequency of amenorrhoea (primary outcome), bleeding patterns, side effects and efficacy in women taking daily 5 mg mifepristone (n = 73) or 0.03 mg levonorgestrel (progestogen-only pill; POP, n = 23) for 24 weeks. RESULTS More women were amenorrhoeic while taking mifepristone than POP (49 versus 0% P < 0.001), and fewer women bled or spotted for >5 days per month (4 versus 39% P < 0.001). Forty-eight percent of women who took mifepristone for 6 months had cystic glandular dilatation of the endometrium but none showed hyperplasia or atypia. There were no pregnancies in 356 months of exposure in women who used only mifepristone for contraception. Two pregnancies occurred in women taking mifepristone who were also using condoms for dual protection. CONCLUSIONS Daily mifepristone (5 mg) is an effective oral contraceptive pill which has a better pattern of menstrual bleeding than an existing POP (levonorgestrel).
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lakha
- Centre for Reproductive Biology, Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, 51 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
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Walker G, MacLeod K, Williams ARW, Cameron DA, Smyth JF, Langdon SP. Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins IGFBP3, IGFBP4, and IGFBP5 predict endocrine responsiveness in patients with ovarian cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2007; 13:1438-44. [PMID: 17332286 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-06-2245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study sought to explore the predictive value of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding proteins (IGFBP) as markers of response in ovarian cancer patients treated with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN IGFBP mRNA expression in cell lines was measured by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR and IGFBP protein expression measured in sections from primary tumors of patients treated with letrozole by semiquantitative immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analysis showed that IGFBP3 and IGFBP5 were down-regulated and IGFBP4 was up-regulated by 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) in an estrogen receptor (ER)-positive ovarian cancer cell line. Expressions of IGFBP1, IGFBP2, and IGFBP6 were unaffected by E(2). The E(2) modulation of these genes was reversed by tamoxifen. Using ERalpha-specific (propyl pyrazole triol) and ERbeta-specific (diarylpropionitrile) agonists, the gene expression modulations produced by E(2) could be replicated by propyl pyrazole triol but not by diarylpropionitrile. For ovarian cancer patients being treated with letrozole, we tested the predictive value of the IGFBPs in paraffin-fixed sections from their primary tumors by semiquantitative immunohistochemistry. Using serum CA125 as an indicator of progression/response, significant differences in expression levels of IGFBPs were observed between tumors from CA125 responding/stable patients compared with tumors from progressing patients. Mean immunoscores for IGFBP3 and IGFBP5 were significantly lower, and mean expression of IGFBP4 was significantly higher in tumors from patients demonstrating CA125 response or stabilization compared with CA125 progression. CONCLUSION These results indicate that expression levels of certain IGFBP family members in ovarian cancers are estrogen regulated and can, thus, help identify patients who could benefit from endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Walker
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Center, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Tomlinson VAL, Newbery HJ, Bergmann JH, Boyd J, Scott D, Wray NR, Sellar GC, Gabra H, Graham A, Williams ARW, Abbott CM. Expression of eEF1A2 is associated with clear cell histology in ovarian carcinomas: overexpression of the gene is not dependent on modifications at the EEF1A2 locus. Br J Cancer 2007; 96:1613-20. [PMID: 17437010 PMCID: PMC2359942 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6603748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The tissue-specific translation elongation factor eEF1A2 is a potential oncogene that is overexpressed in human ovarian cancer. eEF1A2 is highly similar (98%) to the near-ubiquitously expressed eEF1A1 (formerly known as EF1-α) making analysis with commercial antibodies difficult. We wanted to establish the expression pattern of eEF1A2 in ovarian cancer of defined histological subtypes at both the RNA and protein level, and to establish the mechanism for the overexpression of eEF1A2 in tumours. We show that while overexpression of eEF1A2 is seen at both the RNA and protein level in up to 75% of clear cell carcinomas, it occurs at a lower frequency in other histological subtypes. The copy number at the EEF1A2 locus does not correlate with expression level of the gene, no functional mutations were found, and the gene is unmethylated in both normal and tumour DNA, showing that overexpression is not dependent on genetic or epigenetic modifications at the EEF1A2 locus. We suggest that the cause of overexpression of eEF1A2 may be the inappropriate expression of a trans-acting factor. The oncogenicity of eEF1A2 may be related either to its role in protein synthesis or to potential non-canonical functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A L Tomlinson
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - H J Newbery
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - J H Bergmann
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - J Boyd
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - D Scott
- Cancer Research UK, Edinburgh Oncology Unit, University of Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - N R Wray
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - G C Sellar
- Cancer Research UK, Edinburgh Oncology Unit, University of Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - H Gabra
- Cancer Research UK, Edinburgh Oncology Unit, University of Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - A Graham
- Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary, Little France, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - A R W Williams
- Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary, Little France, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - C M Abbott
- Medical Genetics, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Molecular Medicine Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
- E-mail:
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Narvekar N, Lakha F, Critchley HOD, Glasier AF, Williams ARW, Leminen R, Heikinheimo O, Kelly RW, Baird DT. Changes in vaginal morphology, steroid receptor and natural antimicrobial content following treatment with low-dose mifepristone. Contraception 2007; 75:271-80. [PMID: 17362705 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2006.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2006] [Revised: 11/20/2006] [Accepted: 11/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have previously shown that the antigestagen mifepristone is contraceptive when given in a daily dose of 5 mg, po. Epidemiological studies suggest that gestagen-only contraceptives may increase the risk of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to effects on the vaginal defenses to infection. We investigate the effects of mifepristone on vaginal thickness, steroid receptor and natural antimicrobial content and pharmacokinetics of mifepristone. METHODS In a pilot study, eight women were given mifepristone 5 mg/day for an average of 33 days. Ovarian function was assessed by measurement of estradiol and progesterone in blood and their metabolites in urine and by serial ultrasound of their ovaries. Vaginal biopsies were collected before (late proliferative) and after taking mifepristone. RESULTS All subjects showed a similar pattern of descending serum concentrations of mifepristone. The elimination phase half-life was 18+/-5.1 h (mean+/-SD). Mean Cmax measured at 1 h was 641.7 nmol/L (range, 502-740 nmol/L). All eight women reported amenorrhea for the duration of treatment and seven of eight women showed biochemical and ultrasound evidence of anovulation. There was no significant change in vaginal thickness following treatment [342+/-40 microm pretreatment, 303+/-69 microm posttreatment (mean+/-SEM); p>.05]. Estrogen (ERalpha, ERbeta) and androgen receptor were expressed in both vaginal epithelium and subepithelial stroma, whereas progesterone receptor was expressed predominantly in the subepithelial stroma. There was no change in receptor content and distribution following mifepristone treatment. Natural antimicrobial mRNA [secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, human beta defensins mRNA (HBD1, HBD2, HBD3, HBD5), granulysin and elafin] was extracted from the vaginal tissues, and the content was unaffected by mifepristone treatment. CONCLUSION The absence of changes in vaginal thickness, steroid receptor and natural antimicrobial content and its distribution in this preliminary study suggests that in contrast to other estrogen-free contraceptives, mifepristone is unlikely to be associated with the increased risk of transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Anti-Infective Agents
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/drug effects
- Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic/pharmacokinetics
- Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic/pharmacology
- Elafin/drug effects
- Endometrium/drug effects
- Female
- Gene Expression/drug effects
- Humans
- Mifepristone/administration & dosage
- Mifepristone/pharmacokinetics
- Mifepristone/pharmacology
- Ovary/drug effects
- Pilot Projects
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Steroid/drug effects
- Receptors, Steroid/metabolism
- Secretory Leukocyte Peptidase Inhibitor/drug effects
- Vagina/drug effects
- Vagina/metabolism
- beta-Defensins/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitish Narvekar
- Contraceptive Development Network, Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, UK
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Williams ARW, Critchley HOD, Osei J, Ingamells S, Cameron IT, Han C, Chwalisz K. The effects of the selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil on the morphology of uterine tissues after 3 months treatment in patients with symptomatic uterine leiomyomata. Hum Reprod 2007; 22:1696-704. [PMID: 17339234 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dem026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asoprisnil is a selective progesterone receptor modulator with mixed progesterone agonist/antagonist activity which controls uterine bleeding via an endometrial effect. This study examined full-thickness endometrial, leiomyoma and myometrial morphology in hysterectomy specimens from patients with uterine leiomyomata, after treatment with asoprisnil for 3 months. METHODS In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 33 subjects with uterine leiomyomata were randomized to receive asoprisnil 10, 25 mg or placebo for an average of 95 days prior to hysterectomy. Samples of endometrium, myometrium and leiomyoma tissue were subjected to systematic morphological assessment with quantification of mitotic activity. RESULTS In patients treated with 10 or 25 mg asoprisnil, a unique pattern called 'non-physiologic secretory effect' was evident in endometrium, recognizable through partially developed secretory glandular appearances and stromal changes. Endometrial thickness was decreased, and there were low levels of mitotic activity in endometrial glands and stroma. Unusual thick-walled muscular arterioles and prominent aggregations of thin-walled vessels were present in endometrial stroma, but not in myometrium or non-endometrial vascular beds. Mitotic activity was decreased in leiomyomata. CONCLUSIONS Asoprisnil induces unique morphological changes and is associated with low levels of glandular and stromal proliferation in endometrium, and in leiomyomata. These changes are likely to contribute to the amenorrhoea experienced after exposure to the medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, 51 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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Abstract
PTEN, a tumor suppressor gene, appears to negatively control the phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway for regulation of cell proliferation and cell survival. Somatic PTEN mutations are involved in a variety of tumors, including endometrial carcinomas, where PTEN expression is diminished. We examined expression of PTEN in a series of cervical adenocarcinomas and precursors, using tissue microarray (TMA) technology. TMA blocks were constructed using paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues from 273 samples derived from 16 normal cervical biopsies, 119 cases of invasive adenocarcinoma, and 20 high-grade cervical glandular intraepithelial neoplasia (CGIN). Fresh 3-mum sections were cut and immunostained with PTEN, and expression was correlated with clinicopathologic variables, including histologic subtypes of adenocarcinoma. In 137 patients, PTEN expression was positive in 121 (88%). The intensity and distribution of PTEN staining in the tumor tissue were more heterogeneous than those observed in the normal tissues. There were no significant differences in distribution or intensity of PTEN expression between adenocarcinoma in situ and subtypes of invasive adenocarcinoma. Our findings show that unlike the case in most endometrial carcinomas, PTEN expression is retained during the process of carcinogenesis in the glandular cervix. There is, however, evidence of altered distribution and intensity of PTEN expression in cervical adenocarcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tawfik El-Mansi
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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Tawfik El-Mansi M, Cuschieri KS, Morris RG, Williams ARW. Prevalence of human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 in cervical adenocarcinoma and its precursors in Scottish patients. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2007; 16:1025-31. [PMID: 16803480 DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1438.2006.00552.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Our aim was to determine the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18 in cervical adenocarcinoma (and its precursors) in Scottish patients. Nucleic acid was extracted from paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues. We examined 119 cases of invasive adenocarcinoma, 20 cases of adenocarcinoma in situ, and 16 cases of normal glandular epithelium. HPV DNA was detected by polymerase chain reaction using type-specific primers for the E6 and E7 genes of HPV-16 and HPV-18 with conformation of HPV genotype by subsequent restriction fragment length polymorphism. HPV DNA was identified in 87 (62.6%) cases, with HPV-16 being detectable in 65 (47%) cases and HPV-18 in 41 (29%) cases. All the cases of normal tissue tested negative for HPV-16 and/or HPV-18. No significant relation between infecting HPV type (16 or 18) and subtypes of disease (within the invasive category and between the preinvasive and the invasive categories) was noted. Our findings support that HPV-16, along with HPV-18, are likely to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of cervical adenocarcinomas and that cervical cancer screening strategies that incorporate oncogenic HPV testing, and prophylactic vaccines that target these types, will be beneficial for the reduction of adenocarcinoma and associated glandular precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tawfik El-Mansi
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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Tawfik El-Mansi M, Williams ARW. Validation of tissue microarray technology using cervical adenocarcinoma and its precursors as a model system. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2007; 16:1225-33. [PMID: 16803510 DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1438.2006.00570.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The tissue microarray (TMA) technology has potentiated large-scale retrospective cohort studies using archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. We used a large series of cervical adenocarcinomas to investigate TMA technology in assessment of immunohistochemical staining. A TMA was constructed using 273 archival paraffin blocks from 139 patients with 119 invasive and 20 adenocarcinoma in situ and 16 normal controls. Two paired cores were obtained from specific regions of donor blocks selected at histologic review and were arrayed into a recipient blocks. The novel array blocks and some whole donor blocks were sectioned and used for immunohistochemical analysis for carcinoembryonic antigen, cytokeratin 7, and cytokeratin 20 antibodies as potential diagnostic markers. We compared staining in the microarray disks with the whole tissue sections. Two paired TM cores were found to yield good immunohistochemical staining that was concordant with that of the whole section from which it originated in about 97% of cases, and the cores accurately represented the morphology of the tumor with respect to tumor typing and differentiation in all cases. Our results suggest that TMAs can be successfully used for immunohistochemical studies of cervical adenocarcinomas. The areas sampled from donor blocks must be selected by careful review of sections from the original blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tawfik El-Mansi
- Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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Abstract
AIMS To determine the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-2, -7 and -9 and beta-catenin in uterine serous carcinoma (USC) and endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) and to investigate any difference in expression between EEC and USC which might explain the mechanism of invasion and aggressive behaviour of USC. METHODS AND RESULTS Tissue microarrays were created from the viable central part and from the invasive edge of 20 cases of grade 3 EEC and 73 cases of USC. Immunohistochemistry was performed using antibodies to MMPs-2, -7 and -9 and beta-catenin. MMPs-2, -7 and -9 and beta-catenin were present in both tumour types; there was significantly higher expression of MMPs-2 and -9 in EEC compared with USC and significantly increased expression of MMPs-2 and -9 by carcinoma cells at the invasive edge of USC. CONCLUSIONS MMPs-2, -7 and -9 and beta-catenin are present in EEC and USC. The increased expression of MMPs-2 and -9 by carcinoma cells at the invasive edge of USC is possibly due to increased binding of MMPs secreted by the stromal cells to carcinoma cells, thus equipping the USC carcinoma cells with proteases for invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Monaghan
- Department of Laboratory Services (Pathology), Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Monaghan H, Williams ARW. The pattern of CD98 expression is different between uterine serous papillary carcinoma and endometrioid endometrial carcinoma. Gynecol Oncol 2007; 104:264-5. [PMID: 17092549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2006.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2006] [Accepted: 09/28/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Liquid based cytology (LBC) was introduced across the Scottish Cervical Screening Programme in 2003-2004. The objective of this study was to compare in a large cytopathology laboratory the results of cervical samples over two twelve-month periods, 2001-2002, when the great majority of smears were conventional, with 2003-2004, when all were LBC. METHODS The results of smears in both periods were analysed to give overall reporting profiles, and correlated with results of cervical biopsies. The numbers of patients referred for colposcopy were compared. RESULTS The percentage of unsatisfactory smears fell from 13.6% to 1.9%. Colposcopic referrals for repeated unsatisfactory smears fell from almost 25% to 0.5%. There was a decrease in overall smear numbers, but despite this there was an increase in the number of smears reported as showing dyskaryosis of any grade. There was an increase in positive predictive value for moderate dyskaryosis and above, from 79.5% to 86.1%. The outcome of biopsies from patients referred with mild dyskaryosis showed no decrease in accuracy of predicting a low grade histological lesion. Workload in the laboratory decreased, due to fewer smears received overall, more rapid primary screening times and fewer multi-slide cases. Primary screening backlogs all but disappeared, and reporting times greatly improved. CONCLUSIONS Introduction of liquid based cytology led to improvements in unsatisfactory smear rates, with significant benefits to colposcopic referrals and laboratory turnaround times. Pick-up rates of dyskaryosis were maintained, and the positive predictive value of a dyskaryotic smear report was improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, UK.
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Critchley HOD, Robertson KA, Forster T, Henderson TA, Williams ARW, Ghazal P. Gene expression profiling of mid to late secretory phase endometrial biopsies from women with menstrual complaint. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006; 195:406.e1-16. [PMID: 16890550 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2006.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2006] [Revised: 04/26/2006] [Accepted: 05/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to test whether a quantitative high-throughput molecular screen can be used to probe human endometrium and initiate the development of molecular diagnostic tools with potential for identification of therapeutic targets in women with menstrual complaints. STUDY DESIGN Endometrium was collected from 10 patients with complaint of heavy bleeding, classified into mid or late secretory phase of the menstrual cycle by histologic dating and serum progesterone concentration. Total RNA was extracted and gene activity assessed using high-density oligonucleotide arrays. RESULTS Statistical testing identified 83 'signature' genes whose expression levels differentiated the mid and late secretory phases of the menstrual cycle. CONCLUSION The results show that the endometrium, a complex heterogeneous tissue, is amenable to high-throughput molecular analyses and this work provides further support for the future application of molecular profiling to clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary O D Critchley
- Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queens Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair R W Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Jabbour HN, Sales KJ, Boddy SC, Anderson RA, Williams ARW. A positive feedback loop that regulates cyclooxygenase-2 expression and prostaglandin F2alpha synthesis via the F-series-prostanoid receptor and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathway. Endocrinology 2005; 146:4657-64. [PMID: 16081631 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-0804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes catalyze the biosynthesis of eicosanoids, including prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha. PGF2alpha exerts its autocrine/paracrine function by coupling to its G protein-coupled receptor [F-series-prostanoid (FP) receptor] to initiate cell signaling and target gene transcription. In the present study, we found elevated expression of COX-2 and FP receptor colocalized together within the neoplastic epithelial cells of endometrial adenocarcinomas. We investigated a role for PGF2alpha-FP receptor interaction in modulating COX-2 expression and PGF2alpha biosynthesis using an endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line stably transfected with the FP receptor cDNA (FPS cells). PGF2alpha-FP receptor activation rapidly induced COX-2 promoter, mRNA, and protein expression in FPS cells. These effects of PGF2alpha on the expression of COX-2 could be abolished by treatment of FPS cells with an FP receptor antagonist (AL8810) and chemical inhibitor of ERK1/2 kinase (PD98059), or by inactivation of ERK1/2 signaling with dominant-negative mutant isoforms of Ras or ERK1/2 kinase. We further confirmed that elevated COX-2 protein in FPS cells could biosynthesize PGF2alpha de novo to promote a positive feedback loop to facilitate endometrial tumorigenesis. Finally, we have shown that PGF2alpha could potentiate tumorigenesis in endometrial adenocarcinoma explants by inducing the expression of COX-2 mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry N Jabbour
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Sales KJ, Battersby S, Williams ARW, Anderson RA, Jabbour HN. Prostaglandin E2 mediates phosphorylation and down-regulation of the tuberous sclerosis-2 tumor suppressor (tuberin) in human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells via the Akt signaling pathway. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2004; 89:6112-8. [PMID: 15579767 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2004-0892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin (PG) E2 promotes tumor growth via interaction with its G protein-coupled receptors and activation of intracellular signaling. Tuberous sclerosis 2 (tuberin) is a tumor suppressor, which negatively regulates cell growth. Its phosphorylation results in its inactivation and targeted down- regulation, thus lifting the growth inhibition effects. This study investigated the expression and localization of tuberin in neoplastic and normal endometrium and the effect of PGE2 on phosphorylation of tuberin via the Akt pathway. Quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated reduced expression of tuberin in neoplastic tissue, compared with normal endometrial tissue. Tuberin expression was localized by immunohistochemistry to the glandular epithelial compartment in neoplastic and normal endometrium. We investigated the effect of PGE2 on phosphorylation of tuberin via the Akt pathway. Treatment of neoplastic and normal endometrium with 100 nm PGE2 enhanced phosphorylated tuberin immunoreactivity in the glandular epithelium. PGE2 also phosphorylated Akt and tuberin in Ishikawa endometrial adenocarcinoma cells, leading to a reduction in expression of total tuberin protein. Cotreatment of cells with wortmannin or LY294002 inhibited the PGE2-induced phosphorylation of Akt and tuberin. These data suggest that PGE2 signaling may promote endometrial tumorigenesis by inactivation of tuberin after its phosphorylation via the Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt J Sales
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Center for Reproductive Biology, The University of Edinburgh Academic Center, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
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Duffy SW, Warwick J, Williams ARW, Keshavarz H, Kaffashian F, Rohan TE, Nili F, Sadeghi-Hassanabadi A. A simple model for potential use with a misclassified binary outcome in epidemiology. J Epidemiol Community Health 2004; 58:712-7. [PMID: 15252078 PMCID: PMC1732865 DOI: 10.1136/jech.2003.010546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Error in determination of disease outcome occurs in epidemiology, but such error is not usually corrected for in statistical analysis. A method of correction of risk estimates for misclassification of a binary disease outcome is developed here. METHODS The method is a simple, closed form correction to the logistic regression estimate. A closed form variance estimate is also developed. SETTING The method is illustrated in two studies, a cross sectional survey of cervicitis in Iran in 1996-97, as determined by inflammation on cervical smear specimens, and a case-cohort study of benign proliferative epithelial disease of the breast, in Canada 1980-88. MAIN RESULTS The method provides corrected odds ratio estimates and corrects the spurious precision conferred by misclassification. CONCLUSIONS The method is easy to apply and potentially useful, although potential failures of the assumptions involved should be borne in mind. It is necessary to give careful consideration to the plausibility or otherwise of the assumptions in the context of the individual study. Correction for misclassification of disease outcome may become more common with the development of readily applicable methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- S W Duffy
- Cancer Research UK Department of Epidemiology, Mathematics and Statistics, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK.
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Sales KJ, Milne SA, Williams ARW, Anderson RA, Jabbour HN. Expression, localization, and signaling of prostaglandin F2 alpha receptor in human endometrial adenocarcinoma: regulation of proliferation by activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2004; 89:986-93. [PMID: 14764825 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2003-031434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin F(2 alpha)(PGF(2 alpha)) is a bioactive lipid biosynthesized by cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and mediates its biological activity via the heptahelical G(q)-coupled PGF(2 alpha)receptor (FP receptor). This study investigated the expression and molecular signaling of the FP receptor in human endometrial adenocarcinomas. Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed FP receptor expression in endometrial adenocarcinoma of all grades and differentiation. The expression of FP receptor was up-regulated in all endometrial adenocarcinomas compared with normal endometrium. The site of FP receptor expression was localized by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry to the neoplastic epithelial cells in all adenocarcinomas. Treatment of endometrial adenocarcinoma explants with PGF(2 alpha) resulted in mobilization of inositol phosphate signaling, indicating functional FP receptor expression. We investigated whether PGF(2 alpha) could trans-activate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and trigger the MAPK signaling pathway. Treatment of adenocarcinoma explants and endometrial adenocarcinoma cells (Ishikawa) with PGF(2 alpha)-phosphorylated EGFR, triggered MAPK signaling and enhanced the proliferation of Ishikawa cells. Inactivation of phospholipase C, EGFR kinase, and MAPK kinase with specific inhibitors abolished PGF(2 alpha)-induced trans-activation of EGFR, MAPK signaling, and Ishikawa cell proliferation. These data suggest that PGF(2 alpha)-FP receptor promote endometrial tumorigenesis via a phospholipase C-mediated phosphorylation of the EGFR and MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt J Sales
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Center for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh Academic Center, Edinburgh, United Kingdom EH16 4SB
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A review of clinicopathologic features and outcome in women with carcinosarcoma of the ovary (also known as malignant mixed mesodermal tumor [MMMT]) compared with a group of women with serous adenocarcinoma (SAC) of the ovary was conducted. METHODS Between 1984 and 2002, 1568 patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma and 70 patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma underwent treatment at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre. Analysis was performed on 65 patients with MMMT, and 746 patients with SAC were selected as a group for comparison. Baseline variables were recorded prospectively and response to chemotherapy and progression-free and cause-specific survival between the groups were compared. RESULTS Patients with carcinosarcoma had a mean age of 66.6 years, which is significantly older than those with SAC (62.0 years) (P < 0.001). The objective response rate to platinum-based chemotherapy was found to be significantly lower in patients with carcinosarcoma (25% vs. 60%; P = 0.02). Cause-specific survival in the carcinosarcoma group was poor and significantly shorter than that observed in the SAC group (median survival of 8.2 months vs. 20.7 months; P < 0.0001). Progression-free survival in patients with carcinosarcoma also was found to be significantly shorter compared with patients with SAC (median progression-free survival of 6.4 months vs. 12.1 months; P < 0.001). Achieving optimal debulking at the time of initial surgery was found to be a highly significant factor in patients with carcinosarcoma with regard to determining outcome (median survival of 14.8 months for patients with optimally debulked International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Stage III disease vs. 3.1 months for patients with suboptimally/nondebulked Stage III disease; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Ovarian carcinosarcoma is a distinct entity with a poor prognosis. Patients with carcinosarcoma differ from those with SAC with regard to having an older mean age of onset, an inferior response to platinum-based chemotherapy, and worse progression-free and cause-specific survival. The extent of benefit from chemotherapy is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewan Brown
- Cancer Research UK, University of Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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49
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Abstract
When the first synthetic progesterone antagonist (mifepristone) was synthesized over 20 years ago, it was clear that it had a potential as an antifertility agent. Research into the use of antiprogestogens for contraception have concentrated on three general approaches: (1) inhibition of ovulation, (2) inhibition of implantation and (3) disruption of implantation or "menstrual induction". The effect of mifepristone on the ovarian and endometrial cycle depends on dose, timing and frequency of administration. Doses of 10 mg per day or more suppress follicular development and estradiol levels. Ovulatory cycles are maintained in the dose of less than 2 mg although there is increased variability in cycle length. The endometrium shows some minor asynchronous changes, although these are not sufficient to prevent pregnancy. We have chosen to investigate daily doses between 2 and 5 mg which inhibit ovulation and menstruation in over 90% of cycles while still maintaining follicular development and levels of estradiol within the range found during the follicular phase. The endometrium shows proliferative or cystic changes lined by a layer of inactive glandular epithelium set in densely packed stroma. There is, however, an absence of proliferative activity as reflected by a reduced mitotic index and Ki67 staining. These unusual histological appearances are associated with downregulation of PR but a massive upregulation of AR in particularly glandular epithelium. The antiproliferative effect of mifepristone is reassuring suggesting that the risk of atypical hyperplasia due to the effect of prolonged exposure to estrogen unopposed by progesterone is low. In a pilot study, there were no pregnancies in 200 months of exposure in 50 women who used this method as their sole method of contraception. Daily mifepristone could provide a novel contraceptive method which should be devoid of the risks associated with estrogen containing combined oral contraceptive (COC), e.g. venous thromboembolism. The health benefits of avoiding the morbidity associated with menstruation are considerable. Recent surveys suggest that amenorrhoea would be popular with many women.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Baird
- Contraceptive Development Network, Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK.
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Fleming DC, King AE, Williams ARW, Critchley HOD, Kelly RW. Hormonal contraception can suppress natural antimicrobial gene transcription in human endometrium. Fertil Steril 2003; 79:856-63. [PMID: 12749421 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)04930-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of hormonal contraception with a combined oral contraceptive pill and levonorgestrel intrauterine system on the expression of the natural antimicrobials secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, beta-defensins 1 and 2, and granulysin in human endometrium. DESIGN Observational study. SETTING Day case ward in a department of obstetrics and gynecology. PATIENT(S) Fifty seven women undergoing gynecologic procedures for benign conditions; 24 received no contraception for more than 3 months, 20 received a combined oral contraceptive for more than 3 months, and 13 wore a levonorgestrel intrauterine system for more than 3 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Endometrial samples were collected from all women. Messenger RNA was extracted and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to investigate expression of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, beta-defensin 1, beta-defensin 2, and granulysin. Immunohistochemistry for secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor was performed. RESULT(S) All antimicrobials varied cyclically. The level of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor was maximal in the late secretory and menstrual phase, beta-defensin 1 in the mid secretory phase, granulysin in the late secretory phase, and beta-defensin 2 in the menstrual phase. Use of a combined oral contraceptive or levonorgestrel intrauterine system use decreased messenger RNA expression of beta-defensin 1 and 2 and granulysin but not secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor. CONCLUSION(S) Endogenous and exogenous sex-steroid hormones, in the form of a combined oral contraceptive or levonorgestrel intrauterine system, influence gene transcription of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, beta-defensin 1, beta-defensin 2, and granulysin in the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Fleming
- Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Medical Research Council, Academic Centre, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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