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Orfanakos K, Alifieris CE, Verigos EK, Deligiorgi MV, Verigos KE, Panayiotidis MI, Nikolaou M, Trafalis DT. The Predictive Value of 8-Hydroxy-Deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) Serum Concentrations in Irradiated Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (NSCLC) Patients. Biomedicines 2024; 12:134. [PMID: 38255239 PMCID: PMC10813052 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010134] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation is strongly linked to direct or indirect DNA damage, as with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in turn produce DNA damage products, such as 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). In this study, we aimed to investigate the formation of 8-OHdG after irradiation in patients with non-small cell cancer (NSCLC) and its use as a biomarker. Sixteen patients with squamous and thirty-six patients with non-squamous pathology were included. An enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed before and after radiation. A dose-dependent relationship was confirmed: 8-OHdG plasma concentrations, increased in the total of NSCLC patients and specifically with a linear correlation in non-squamous pathology; in squamous histology, after an initial increase, a significant decrease followed after 20 Gy dose of irradiation. The pretreatment total irradiated tumor volume (cm3) was positively correlated with 8-OHdG levels in patients with squamous histology. When plotting the 8-OHdG plasma concentration at a 10 Gy irradiation dose to the baseline, the AUC was 0.873 (95% CI 0.614-0.984), p < 0.0001, with an associated criterion value of >1378 as a cutoff (sensitivity 72.7%, specificity 100%). When normalizing this ratio to BSA, the associated criterion cutoff value was >708 (sensitivity of 100%, specificity 80%). Lastly, 8-OHdG levels were closely related with the development of radiation-induced toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriakos Orfanakos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
- Department of Radiation Therapy, 401 General Military Hospital, 11525 Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos E. Alifieris
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, St. Vincent’s University Hospital, D04 T6F4 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emmanouil K. Verigos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, General Anticancer Oncology Hospital of Athens “O Agios Savvas”, 11522 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
| | - Kosmas E. Verigos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
- Department of Radiation Therapy, 401 General Military Hospital, 11525 Athens, Greece
| | - Mihalis I. Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Michail Nikolaou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
| | - Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.O.); (M.V.D.); (K.E.V.); (D.T.T.)
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. A Concerted Vision to Advance the Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087630. [PMID: 37108792 PMCID: PMC10146255 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087630] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The rubric of immune-related (ir) diabetes mellitus (DM) (irDM) encompasses various hyperglycemic disorders related to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPis). Beyond sharing similarities with conventional DM, irDM is a distinct, yet important, entity. The present narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the literature regarding irDM published in major databases from January 2018 until January 2023. Initially considered rare, irDM is increasingly being reported. To advance the knowledge of irDM, the present review suggests a concerted vision comprising two intertwined aspects: a scientific-centered and a patient-centered view. The scientific-centered aspect addresses the pathophysiology of irDM, integrating: (i) ICPi-induced pancreatic islet autoimmunity in genetically predisposed patients; (ii) altered gut microbiome; (iii) involvement of exocrine pancreas; (iv) immune-related acquired generalized lipodystrophy. The patient-centered aspect is both nurtured by and nurturing the four pillars of the scientific-centered aspect: awareness, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of irDM. The path forward is a multidisciplinary initiative towards: (i) improved characterization of the epidemiological, clinical, and immunological profile of irDM; (ii) standardization of reporting, management, and surveillance protocols for irDM leveraging global registries; (iii) patient stratification according to personalized risk for irDM; (iv) new treatments for irDM; and (v) uncoupling ICPi efficacy from immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Anestopoulos I, Kyriakou S, Tragkola V, Paraskevaidis I, Tzika E, Mitsiogianni M, Deligiorgi MV, Petrakis G, Trafalis DT, Botaitis S, Giatromanolaki A, Koukourakis MI, Franco R, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI. Targeting the epigenome in malignant melanoma: Facts, challenges and therapeutic promises. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108301. [PMID: 36283453 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108301] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the most lethal type of skin cancer with high rates of mortality. Although current treatment options provide a short-clinical benefit, acquired-drug resistance highlights the low 5-year survival rate among patients with advanced stage of the disease. In parallel, the involvement of an aberrant epigenetic landscape, (e.g., alterations in DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications marks and expression of non-coding RNAs), in addition to the genetic background, has been also associated with the onset and progression of melanoma. In this review article, we report on current therapeutic options in melanoma treatment with a focus on distinct epigenetic alterations and how their reversal, by specific drug compounds, can restore a normal phenotype. In particular, we concentrate on how single and/or combinatorial therapeutic approaches have utilized epigenetic drug compounds in being effective against malignant melanoma. Finally, the role of deregulated epigenetic mechanisms in promoting drug resistance to targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors is presented leading to the development of newly synthesized and/or improved drug compounds capable of targeting the epigenome of malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Anestopoulos
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - S Kyriakou
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - V Tragkola
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - I Paraskevaidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - E Tzika
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - M V Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - G Petrakis
- Saint George Hospital, Chania, Crete, Greece
| | - D T Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - S Botaitis
- Department of Surgery, Alexandroupolis University Hospital, Democritus University of Thrace School of Medicine, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - A Giatromanolaki
- Department of Pathology, Democritus University of Thrace, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - M I Koukourakis
- Radiotherapy / Oncology, Radiobiology & Radiopathology Unit, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - R Franco
- Redox Biology Centre, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA; School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - A Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - M I Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. The continuum of care of anticancer treatment-induced hypothyroidism in patients with solid non thyroid tumors: time for an intimate collaboration between oncologists and endocrinologists. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:531-549. [PMID: 35757870 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2093714] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypothyroidism is a common adverse event of various anticancer treatment modalities, constituting a notable paradigm of the integration of the endocrine perspective into precision oncology. AREAS COVERED The present narrative review provides a comprehensive and updated overview of anticancer treatment-induced hypothyroidism in patients with solid non-thyroid tumors. A study search was conducted on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus.com, ClinicalTrials.gov, and European Union Clinical Trials Register from 2011 until August 2021. EXPERT OPINION In patients with solid non-thyroid tumors, hypothyroidism is a common adverse event of radiotherapy, high dose interleukin 2 (HD IL-2), interferon alpha (IFN-α), bexarotene, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi), and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), while chemotherapy may induce hypothyroidism more often than initially considered. The path forward for the management of anticancer treatment-induced hypothyroidism in patients with solid non-thyroid tumors is an integrated approach grounded on 5 pillars: prevention, vigilance, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. Current challenges concerning anticancer treatment-induced hypothyroidism await counteraction, namely awareness of the growing list of related anticancer treatments, identification of predictive factors, counteraction of diagnostic pitfalls, tuning of thyroid hormone replacement, and elucidation of its prognostic significance. Close collaboration of oncologists with endocrinologists will provide optimal patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. The Clinical Relevance of Hypothyroidism in Patients with Solid Non-Thyroid Cancer: A Tantalizing Conundrum. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11123417. [PMID: 35743483 PMCID: PMC9224934 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11123417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothyroidism in patients with solid non-thyroid cancer is a tantalizing entity, integrating an intriguing thyroid hormones (THs)–cancer association with the complexity of hypothyroidism itself. The present narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical relevance of hypothyroidism in solid non-thyroid cancer. Hypothyroidism in patients with solid non-thyroid cancer is reminiscent of hypothyroidism in the general population, yet also poses distinct challenges due to the dual role of THs in cancer: promoting versus inhibitory. Close collaboration between oncologists and endocrinologists will enable the prompt and personalized diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in patients with solid non-thyroid cancer. Clinical data indicate that hypothyroidism is a predictor of a decreased or increased risk of solid non-thyroid cancer and is a prognostic factor of favorable or unfavorable prognosis in solid non-thyroid cancer. However, the impact of hypothyroidism with respect to the risk and/or prognosis of solid non-thyroid cancer is not a consistent finding. To harness hypothyroidism, or THs replacement, as a personalized anticancer strategy for solid non-thyroid cancer, four prerequisites need to be fulfilled, namely: (i) deciphering the dual THs actions in cancer; (ii) identifying interventions in THs status and developing agents that block tumor-promoting THs actions and/or mimic anticancer THs actions; (iii) appropriate patient selection; and (iv) counteracting current methodological limitations.
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Kyriakou S, Trafalis DT, Deligiorgi MV, Franco R, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI. Assessment of Methodological Pipelines for the Determination of Isothiocyanates Derived from Natural Sources. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11040642. [PMID: 35453327 PMCID: PMC9029005 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Isothiocyanates are biologically active secondary metabolites liberated via enzymatic hydrolysis of their sulfur enriched precursors, glucosinolates, upon tissue plant disruption. The importance of this class of compounds lies in their capacity to induce anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and other bioactive properties. As such, their isolation from natural sources is of utmost importance. In this review article, an extensive examination of the various parameters (hydrolysis, extraction, and quantification) affecting the isolation of isothiocyanates from naturally-derived sources is presented. Overall, the effective isolation/extraction and quantification of isothiocyanate is strongly associated with their chemical and physicochemical properties, such as polarity-solubility as well as thermal and acidic stability. Furthermore, the successful activation of myrosinase appears to be a major factor affecting the conversion of glucosinolates into active isothiocyanates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotiris Kyriakou
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus;
| | - Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Rodrigo Franco
- Redox Biology Centre, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA;
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Mihalis I. Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-22392626
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. The Intriguing Thyroid Hormones-Lung Cancer Association as Exemplification of the Thyroid Hormones-Cancer Association: Three Decades of Evolving Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:436. [PMID: 35008863 PMCID: PMC8745569 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010436] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Exemplifying the long-pursued thyroid hormones (TH)-cancer association, the TH-lung cancer association is a compelling, yet elusive, issue. The present narrative review provides background knowledge on the molecular aspects of TH actions, with focus on the contribution of TH to hallmarks of cancer. Then, it provides a comprehensive overview of data pertinent to the TH-lung cancer association garnered over the last three decades and identifies obstacles that need to be overcome to enable harnessing this association in the clinical setting. TH contribute to all hallmarks of cancer through integration of diverse actions, currently classified according to molecular background. Despite the increasingly recognized implication of TH in lung cancer, three pending queries need to be resolved to empower a tailored approach: (1) How to stratify patients with TH-sensitive lung tumors? (2) How is determined whether TH promote or inhibit lung cancer progression? (3) How to mimic the antitumor and/or abrogate the tumor-promoting TH actions in lung cancer? To address these queries, research should prioritize the elucidation of the crosstalk between TH signaling and oncogenic signaling implicated in lung cancer initiation and progression, and the development of efficient, safe, and feasible strategies leveraging this crosstalk in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology—Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias Str, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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Deligiorgi MV, Siasos G, Vakkas L, Trafalis DT. Charting the Unknown Association of COVID-19 with Thyroid Cancer, Focusing on Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: A Call for Caution. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5785. [PMID: 34830939 PMCID: PMC8616091 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conceived of as the "silver lining" of the dark cloud of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, lessons taught by this catastrophe should be leveraged by medical authorities and policy makers to optimize health care globally. A major lesson is that resilient health systems should absorb sudden shocks incited by overwhelming health emergencies without compromising the continuum of care of chronic diseases, especially of cancer. METHODS The present review dissects the association between COVID-19 and thyroid cancer (TC), especially with differentiated TC (DTC), focusing on available data, knowledge gaps, current challenges, and future perspectives. RESULTS Obesity has been incriminated in terms of both COVID-19 severity and a rising incidence of TC, especially of DTC. The current conceptualization of the pathophysiological landscape of COVID-19-(D)TC association implicates an interplay between obesity, inflammation, immunity, and oxidative stress. Whether COVID-19 could aggravate the health burden posed by (D)TC or vice versa has yet to be clarified. Improved understanding and harnessing of the pathophysiological landscape of the COVID-19-(D)TC association will empower a mechanism-guided, safe, evidence-based, and risk-stratified management of (D)TC in the COVID-19 era and beyond. CONCLUSION A multidisciplinary patient-centered decision-making will ensure high-quality (D)TC care for patients, with or without COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit–Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias St., 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.V.); (D.T.T.)
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital of Athens, Faculty of Mediine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Lampros Vakkas
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit–Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias St., 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.V.); (D.T.T.)
| | - Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit–Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias St., 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.V.); (D.T.T.)
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Kyriakou S, Tragkola V, Plioukas M, Anestopoulos I, Chatzopoulou PS, Sarrou E, Trafalis DT, Deligiorgi MV, Franco R, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI. Chemical and Biological Characterization of the Anticancer Potency of Salvia fruticosa in a Model of Human Malignant Melanoma. Plants (Basel) 2021; 10:2472. [PMID: 34834834 PMCID: PMC8624467 DOI: 10.3390/plants10112472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer with an increasing incidence worldwide. Thus, the development of innovative therapeutic approaches is of great importance. Salvia fruticosa (SF) is known for its anticancer properties and in this context, we aimed to investigate its potential anti-melanoma activity in an in vitro model of human malignant melanoma. Cytotoxicity was assessed through a colorimetric-based sulforhodamine-B (SRB) assay in primary malignant melanoma (A375), non-malignant melanoma epidermoid carcinoma (A431) and non-tumorigenic melanocyte neighbouring keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. Among eight (8) different fractions of S. fruticosa extracts (SF1-SF8) tested, SF3 was found to possess significant cytotoxic activity against A375 cells, while A431 and HaCaT cells remained relatively resistant or exerted no cytotoxicity, respectively. In addition, the total phenolic (Folin-Ciocalteu assay) and total flavonoid content of SF extracts was estimated, whereas the antioxidant capacity was measured via the inhibition of tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation levels. Finally, apoptotic cell death was assessed by utilizing a commercially available kit for the activation of caspases - 3, - 8 and - 9. In conclusion, the anti-melanoma properties of SF3 involve the induction of both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathway(s), as evidenced by the increased activity levels of caspases - 8, and - 9, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotiris Kyriakou
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (V.T.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Venetia Tragkola
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (V.T.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Michael Plioukas
- Department of Life & Health Sciences, School of Sciences & Engineering, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus;
| | - Ioannis Anestopoulos
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (V.T.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Paschalina S. Chatzopoulou
- Hellenic Agricultural Organization DEMETER, Institute of Breeding & Plant Genetic Resources, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.S.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Eirini Sarrou
- Hellenic Agricultural Organization DEMETER, Institute of Breeding & Plant Genetic Resources, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.S.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Rodrigo Franco
- Redox Biology Centre, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA;
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Mihalis I. Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics & Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (V.T.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
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Deligiorgi MV, Sagredou S, Vakkas L, Trafalis DT. The Continuum of Thyroid Disorders Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Still Many Pending Queries. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5277. [PMID: 34771441 PMCID: PMC8582503 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until more data are available to shed light on the thyroid disorders related to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) implemented for the treatment of hematological malignancies, the decision-making is guided by pertinent data derived mostly from solid tumors. METHODS The present review provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the thyroid disorders related to ICPi, namely to inhibitors of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death (PD) 1 (PD-1), and the ligand of the latter (PD-L1). RESULTS With the increasing recognition of ir thyroid disorders, many outstanding issues have emerged. Ir thyroid disorders are reminiscent of, but not identical to, thyroid autoimmunity. Interclass and intraclass ICPi differences regarding thyroid immunotoxicity await interpretation. The available data concerning the predictive value of thyroid autoantibodies for the development of ir thyroid disorders are inconclusive. Mounting data indicate an association of ir thyroid disorders with ICPi efficacy, but a causative link is still lacking. The path forward is a tailored approach, entailing: (i) the validation of tumor-specific, patient-specific, and ICPi-specific predictive factors; (ii) appropriate patient selection; (iii) the uncoupling of antitumor immunity from immunotoxicity; (iv) a multidisciplinary initiative; and (v) global registry strategies. CONCLUSIONS Untangling and harnessing the interrelationship of immuno-oncology with endocrinology underlying the ir thyroid disorders will yield the optimal patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology—Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias Str., Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (L.V.); (D.T.T.)
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Siasos G, Trafalis DT. Osteoporosis Entwined with Cardiovascular Disease: The Implication of Osteoprotegerin and the Example of Statins. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:1443-1467. [PMID: 31971101 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200123151132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Beyond being epiphenomenon of shared epidemiological factors, the integration of Osteoporosis (OP) with Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) - termed "calcification paradox" - reflects a continuum of aberrant cardiometabolic status. The present review provides background knowledge on "calcification paradox", focusing on the endocrine aspect of vasculature orchestrated by the osteoblastic molecular fingerprint of vascular cells, acquired via imbalance among established modulators of mineralization. Osteoprotegerin (OPG), the well-established osteoprotective cytokine, has recently been shown to exert a vessel-modifying role. Prompted by this notion, the present review interrogates OPG as the potential missing link between OP and CVD. However, so far, the confirmation of this hypothesis is hindered by the equivocal role of OPG in CVD, being both proatherosclerotic and antiatherosclerotic. Further research is needed to illuminate whether OPG could be a biomarker of the "calcification paradox". Moreover, the present review brings into prominence the dual role of statins - cardioprotective and osteoprotective - as a potential illustration of the integration of CVD with OP. Considering that the statins-induced modulation of OPG is central to the statins-driven osteoprotective signalling, statins could be suggested as an illustration of the role of OPG in the bone/vessels crosstalk, if further studies consolidate the contribution of OPG to the cardioprotective role of statins. Another outstanding issue that merits further evaluation is the inconsistency of the osteoprotective role of statins. Further understanding of the varying bone-modifying role of statins, likely attributed to the unique profile of different classes of statins defined by distinct physicochemical characteristics, may yield tangible benefits for treating simultaneously OP and CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527 Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Group of Translational Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building A516, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, United Kingdom
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, 1st Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 114 Vas Sofias, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527 Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Trafalis DT, Sagredou S, Dalezis P, Voura M, Fountoulaki S, Nikoleousakos N, Almpanakis K, Deligiorgi MV, Sarli V. Anticancer Activity of Triazolo-Thiadiazole Derivatives and Inhibition of AKT1 and AKT2 Activation. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13040493. [PMID: 33916378 PMCID: PMC8066331 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The fusion of 1,2,4-triazole and 1,3,4-thiadiazole rings results in a class of heterocycles compounds with an extensive range of pharmacological properties. A series of 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b]-1,2,4-thiadiazoles was synthesized and tested for its enzyme inhibition potential and anticancer activity. The results show that 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b]-1,2,4-thiadiazoles display potent anticancer properties in vitro against a panel of cancer cells and in vivo efficacy in HT-29 human colon tumor xenograft in CB17 severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed that KA25 and KA39 exhibit time- and concentration-dependent inhibition of Akt Ser-473 phosphorylation. Molecular modeling experiments indicated that 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b]-1,2,4-thiadiazoles bind well to the ATP binding site in Akt1 and Akt2. The low acute toxicity combined with in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity render triazolo[3,4-b]thiadiazoles KA25, KA26, and KA39 promising cancer therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.); (N.N.); (M.V.D.)
- Correspondence: (D.T.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Sofia Sagredou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.); (N.N.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Panayiotis Dalezis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.); (N.N.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Maria Voura
- Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.V.); (S.F.); (K.A.)
| | - Stella Fountoulaki
- Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.V.); (S.F.); (K.A.)
| | - Nikolaos Nikoleousakos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.); (N.N.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Konstantinos Almpanakis
- Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.V.); (S.F.); (K.A.)
| | - Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.); (N.N.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Vasiliki Sarli
- Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.V.); (S.F.); (K.A.)
- Correspondence: (D.T.T.); (V.S.)
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incorporation of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the oncologists' arsenal is a milestone in cancer therapeutics, though not being devoid of toxicities.Areas covered: The present review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the immune-related hypophysitis with focus on the elusive biological background, the wide spectrum of the epidemiological profile, the varying clinical aspects, and the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.Expert opinion: Historically considered distinctive of anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), the immune-related hypophysitis is increasingly correlated with the anti-programmed cell-death (PD) protein 1 (PD-1)/anti-PD ligand 1 (PD-L1) mAbs. The distinct phenotype of hypophysitis related to anti-PD1/anti-PD-L1 mAbs is highlighted with focus on the immune-related isolated adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) deficiency. The immune-related central diabetes insipidus is discussed as a rare aspect of anti-CTL-A4 mAbs-induced hypophysitis, recently related to anti-PD1/anti-PD-L1 mAbs as well. The present review builds on existing literature concerning immune-related hypophysitis underscoring the pending issues still to be addressed, including (i) pathogenesis; (ii) correlation with preexisting autoimmunity; (iii) predictive value; (iv) utility of high-dose glucocorticoids; and (v) establishment of evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic protocols. Increased awareness and constant vigilance are advocated as cornerstone of a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal patients' care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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Mitsiogianni M, Kyriakou S, Anestopoulos I, Trafalis DT, Deligiorgi MV, Franco R, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI. An Evaluation of the Anti-Carcinogenic Response of Major Isothiocyanates in Non-Metastatic and Metastatic Melanoma Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020284. [PMID: 33668498 PMCID: PMC7918923 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the most deadly types of solid cancers, a property mainly attributed to its highly aggressive metastatic form. On the other hand, different classes of isothiocyanates, a class of phytochemicals, present in cruciferous vegetables have been characterized by considerable anti-cancer activity in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. In the current study, we investigated the anti-cancer response of five isothiocyanates in an in vitro model of melanoma consisting of non-metastatic (A375, B16F-10) and metastatic (VMM1, Hs294T) malignant melanoma as well as non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma (A431) and non-tumorigenic melanocyte-neighboring keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. Our aim was to compare different endpoints of cytotoxicity (e.g., reactive oxygen species, intracellular glutathione content, cell cycle growth arrest, apoptosis and necrosis) descriptive of an anti-cancer response between non-metastatic and metastatic melanoma as well as non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma and non-tumorigenic cells. Our results showed that exposure to isothiocyanates induced an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species and glutathione contents between non-metastatic and metastatic melanoma cells. The distribution of cell cycle phases followed a similar pattern in a manner where non-metastatic and metastatic melanoma cells appeared to be growth arrested at the G2/M phase while elevated levels of metastatic melanoma cells were shown to be at sub G1 phase, an indicator of necrotic cell death. Finally, metastatic melanoma cells were more sensitive apoptosis and/or necrosis as higher levels were observed compared to non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma and non-tumorigenic cells. In general, non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma and non-tumorigenic cells were more resistant under any experimental exposure condition. Overall, our study provides further evidence for the potential development of isothiocyanates as promising anti-cancer agents against non-metastatic and metastatic melanoma cells, a property specific for these cells and not shared by non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma or non-tumorigenic melanocyte cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina Mitsiogianni
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK;
| | - Sotiris Kyriakou
- Department of Electron Microscopy & Molecular Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, P.O. Box 23462, Nicosia 1683, Cyprus
| | - Ioannis Anestopoulos
- Department of Electron Microscopy & Molecular Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, P.O. Box 23462, Nicosia 1683, Cyprus
| | - Dimitrios T. Trafalis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Maria V. Deligiorgi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.T.T.); (M.V.D.)
| | - Rodrigo Franco
- Redox Biology Centre, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA;
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Mihalis I. Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK;
- Department of Electron Microscopy & Molecular Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (S.K.); (I.A.)
- The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, P.O. Box 23462, Nicosia 1683, Cyprus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-223-92626
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. The safety profile of denosumab in oncology beyond the safety of denosumab as an anti-osteoporotic agent: still more to learn. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2020; 20:191-213. [PMID: 33287586 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2021.1861246] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Initially endorsed as an antiosteoporotic agent, denosumab ‒ human monoclonal antibody inhibiting the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)‒ has currently shown an anticancer potential, rationalizing its exploitation in oncology. A prerequisite for leveraging denosumab in oncology is a favorable safety profile. AREAS COVERED The present review provides an overview of the adverse events of denosumab in oncology, with a focus on hypocalcemia, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, atypical femoral fracture(s), post-denosumab vertebral fractures, increased risk of infections, and excess of second primary cancer. Representative studies addressing the safety and efficacy of denosumab compared to bisphosphonates in oncology are summarized. Critical gaps in the literature concerning the safety of denosumab in oncology are highlighted as opposed to plenty of available safety data on denosumab as an antiosteoporotic agent. EXPERT OPINION Despite the generally acceptable safety profile of denosumab in oncology, many issues remain unresolved. Further research is mandatory to counteract current challenges, namely: (i) validation of risk factors for adverse events; (ii) elucidation of the pathophysiology of the adverse events in search of actionable molecular pathways; (iii) illumination of the association of denosumab with increased risk of infections and/or second primary cancer; (iv) establishment of optimal diagnostic, and therapeutic protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine , Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine , Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Liapi C, Trafalis DT. How Far Are We from Prescribing Fasting as Anticancer Medicine? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239175. [PMID: 33271979 PMCID: PMC7730661 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: the present review provides a comprehensive and up-to date overview of the potential exploitation of fasting as an anticancer strategy. The rationale for this concept is that fasting elicits a differential stress response in the setting of unfavorable conditions, empowering the survival of normal cells, while killing cancer cells. (2) Methods: the present narrative review presents the basic aspects of the hormonal, molecular, and cellular response to fasting, focusing on the interrelationship of fasting with oxidative stress. It also presents nonclinical and clinical evidence concerning the implementation of fasting as adjuvant to chemotherapy, highlighting current challenges and future perspectives. (3) Results: there is ample nonclinical evidence indicating that fasting can mitigate the toxicity of chemotherapy and/or increase the efficacy of chemotherapy. The relevant clinical research is encouraging, albeit still in its infancy. The path forward for implementing fasting in oncology is a personalized approach, entailing counteraction of current challenges, including: (i) patient selection; (ii) fasting patterns; (iii) timeline of fasting and refeeding; (iv) validation of biomarkers for assessment of fasting; and (v) establishment of protocols for patients’ monitoring. (4) Conclusion: prescribing fasting as anticancer medicine may not be far away if large randomized clinical trials consolidate its safety and efficacy.
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Trafalis DT. Repurposing denosumab in breast cancer beyond prevention of skeletal related events: Could nonclinical data be translated into clinical practice? Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:1235-1252. [PMID: 33070648 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1839416] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Denosumab is a human monoclonal antibody inhibiting the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL). Initially approved as antiosteοporotic agent, denosumab is being currently pursued as a candidate for drug repurposing in oncology, especially breast cancer. AREAS COVERED The present review provides an overview of the therapeutic potential of denosumab in breast cancer beyond prevention of skeletal-related events (SREs), with focus on prevention of carcinogenesis in BRCA mutation carriers and on adjuvant treatment in early breast cancer patients. Study search was conducted on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus.com, ClinicalTrials.gov, and European Union Clinical Trials Register from 2008 until June 2020. EXPERT OPINION Nonclinical data have established links between RANKL signaling and breast cancer initiation and progression, rationalizing exploring the potential bone-independent anticancer role of denosumab beyond SREs prevention. Preclinical and preliminary clinical data show that denosumab may inhibit carcinogenesis in BRCA mutation carriers. Denosumab adjuvant in early breast cancer has been shown, though inconsistently, to provide a disease-free survival benefit for a subgroup of patients. Despite promising results, the incorporation of denosumab in preventive and therapeutic protocols of breast cancer beyond prevention of SREs cannot be endorsed until further research consolidates its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens, Greece
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Electron Microscopy & Molecular Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics , Nicosia, Cyprus.,The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. Reversible primary adrenal insufficiency related to anti-programmed cell-death 1 protein active immunotherapy: Insight into an unforeseen outcome of a rare immune-related adverse event. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 89:107050. [PMID: 33069924 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) revolutionize the cancer therapeutics, though not being devoid of toxicity. The immune-related primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is a rare, yet potentially life-threatening, adverse event, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report the first case of reversible PAI related to nivolumab (programmed cell-death 1 protein inhibitor) in a 42-year-old male with metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma. PAI manifested as profound fatigue, disorientation, hypotension, hyperpigmentation of palmar creases, and hyponatremia without hyperkalemia 16 weeks after initiation of nivolumab. Due to impending adrenal crisis, intravenous stress doses of hydrocortisone and hydration with normal saline were initiated. When the state of patient was stabilized, PAI was confirmed through 250 μg Synacthen test 24 h after temporary cessation of hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone was fixed at maintenance dose, while mineralocorticoid substitution was not required. PAI was ascribed to nivolumab based on history, physical examination, and laboratory work-up with emphasis on positivity of anti-21-hydroxylase antibodies and exclusion of other causes of PAI by normal imaging of adrenal glands on computed tomography (CT). Reevaluation of adrenal function during follow up demonstrated complete recovery. A review of literature concerning the immune-related PAI indicated that the complete recovery of adrenal function, the normal CT imaging, and the positivity of anti-21-hydroxylase antibodies observed in our patient are exceptional findings of immune-related PAI. Finally, heightened suspicion of immune-related PAI in case of hyponatremia without hyperkalemia and constant vigilance for diagnosis of rare, but real, reversibility of immune-related PAI are of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, 75 Mikras Asias, Str., 115 27 Athens, Greece.
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, 75 Mikras Asias, Str., 115 27 Athens, Greece.
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Deligiorgi MV, Trafalis DT. Repurposing denosumab in lung cancer beyond counteracting the skeletal related events: an intriguing perspective. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 20:1331-1346. [PMID: 32658547 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1790522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Repurposing denosumab in lung cancer therapeutics capitalizes on its well-established role in preventing the skeletal related events (SREs) and its emerging, yet elusive, bone-independent role, assigned to inhibit the contribution of RANKL to cancer initiation and progression. AREAS COVERED The present review presents the available preclinical and clinical data indicating that denosumab may provide survival benefit to lung cancer patients beyond the counteraction of SREs. EXPERT OPINION Despite the preliminary data heralding the potential of denosumab to increase overall survival in lung cancer, the embracement of this strategy in clinical practice cannot be advocated until large randomized clinical trials consolidate its safety and efficacy. Given the improvement of lung cancer prognosis ascribed to revolutionary targeted treatment agents, the possibility of denosumab-related increased risk of second primary malignancies merits further evaluation. Many challenges in endorsing denosumab as a strategy to treat lung cancer beyond SREs prevention are pending counteraction, including: (i) patient selection guided by validated predictive and prognostic biomarkers; (ii) assessment of long-term outcomes; (iii) evaluation of benefit-risk ratio; (iv) translational research; (v) combination of denosumab with other targeted therapies; (vi) integration of genomic biomarkers, immune-related biomarkers, and biomarkers of active RANKL pathway to guide the decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine , Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine , Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Trafalis DT. Prophylactic lymph node dissection in clinically N0 differentiated thyroid carcinoma: example of personalized treatment. Per Med 2020; 17:317-338. [PMID: 32588744 DOI: 10.2217/pme-2019-0119] [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] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Considering the 'differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) epidemic', the indolent nature of DTC imposes a treatment paradigm shift toward elimination of recurrence. Lymph node metastases in cervical compartments, encountered in 20-90% of DTC, are the main culprit of recurrent disease, affecting 5-30% of patients. Personalized risk-stratified cervical prophylactic lymph node dissection (PLND) at initial thyroidectomy in DTC with no clinical, sonographic or intraoperative evidence of lymph node metastases (clinically N0) has been advocated, though not unanimously. The present review dissects the controversy over PLND. Weighing the benefit yielded from PLND up against the PLND-related morbidity is so far hampered by the inconsistent profit yielded by PLND and the challenging patient selection. Advances in tailoring PLND are anticipated to empower optimal patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Group of Translational Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building A516, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK.,Department of Electron Microscopy & Molecular Pathology, Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Trafalis DT. Endocrine adverse events related with immune checkpoint inhibitors: an update for clinicians. Immunotherapy 2020; 12:481-510. [PMID: 32345074 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2019-0132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Designated as scientific breakthrough of current decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors attenuate the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathways, depriving cancer cells of a key strategy of evasion from immunosurveillance. The reinvigoration of immune response translates into clinical success, inevitably entwined with a novel constellation of immune-related adverse events. The present review dissects the endocrine immune-related adverse events, emphasizing their unique profile featured by unpredictable onset, irreversibility, nonspecific symptoms, wide clinical spectrum and sophisticated diagnostic work-up. Guidelines advocate individualized decision-making process guided by clinicians' judgement. Future perspective should be governed by five principles - prevention, anticipation, detection, treatment, monitoring - aiming to gain the optimal profit diminishing immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor: 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Group of Translational Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building A516, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor: 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Griniatsos J, Trafalis DT. Harnessing the versatile role of OPG in bone oncology: counterbalancing RANKL and TRAIL signaling and beyond. Clin Exp Metastasis 2020; 37:13-30. [PMID: 31578655 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-019-09997-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
More than 2 decades ago, the discovery of osteoprotegerin (OPG) as inhibitor of the receptor of activator of nuclear factor Kb (RANK) ligand (RANKL) revolutionized our understanding of bone biology and oncology. Besides acting as decoy receptor for RANKL, OPG acts as decoy receptor for tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). OPG, RANKL, and TRAIL are ubiquitously expressed, stimulating per se pivotal signaling cascades implicated in cancer. In the context of cancer cell-bone cell interactions, cancer cells skew the OPG/RANKL/RANK (RANKL cognate receptor) balance towards bone destruction and tumor growth through favoring the RANKL/RANK interface, circumventing OPG. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate the dual role of OPG in cancer: antitumor and tumor-promoting. OPG potentially conveys an antitumor signal through inhibiting the tumor-promoting RANKL signaling-both the osteoclast-dependent and the osteoclast-independent-and the tumor-promoting TRAIL signaling. On the other hand, the presumed tumor-promoting functions of OPG are: (i) abrogation of TRAIL-induced apoptosis of cancer cells; (ii) abrogation of RANKL-induced antitumor immunity; and (iii) stimulation of oncogenic and prometastatic signaling cascades downstream of the interaction of OPG with diverse proteins. The present review dissects the role of OPG in bone oncology. It presents the available preclinical and clinical data sustaining the dual role of OPG in cancer and focuses on the imbalanced RANKL/RANK/OPG interplay in the landmark "vicious cycle" of skeletal metastatic disease, osteosarcoma, and multiple myeloma. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives in exploiting OPG signaling in bone oncology therapeutics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece.
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Room A516, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
| | - John Griniatsos
- 1st Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma Str, Goudi, 115-27, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
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V Deligiorgi M, Panayiotidis MI, Trafalis DT. Combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with denosumab: a new era in repurposing denosumab in oncology? J BUON 2020; 25:1-14. [PMID: 32277609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The designation of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) as scientific breakthrough of the year 2013 marked a turning point in cancer therapeutics, unleashing the host immune system against tumors. ICPi block the cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), the programmed cell death protein (PD) 1 (PD-1), and the ligand of the latter (PD-L1) ‒the landmark immune checkpoints‒abrogating the escape of cancer cells from immunosurveillance. Despite the durable antitumor response elicited by ICPi in an expanding list of cancer types and a substantial fraction of patients, the resistance to this modality ‒primary and acquired‒ has inspired research on combinational regimens to reinvigorate immunosurveillance in immune-refractory tumors. Besides various combinations of ICPi with other ICPi, targeted therapies, chemotherapy, and radiation, emphasis is placed on identification of novel partners of ICPi. Scientists capitalize on repurposing already-approved drugs to overcome τhe diminishing efficiency of commercial drug research and development. Denosumab, a human monoclonal immunoglobulin antibody inhibiting receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), is excellent candidate for repurposing in oncology, given its anticancer potential and accepted safety profile. Originally approved as anti-osteoporotic agent inhibiting the osteoclast driven bone resorption, denosumab has demonstrated multifaceted anticancer efficacy, beyond abolishing the osteoclast-dependent RANKL signaling. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the preclinical and clinical evidence indicating denosumab as effective partner of ICPi, emphasizing the mechanisms underlying the enhanced anticancer efficacy of this combination as compared to monotherapies. Current challenges and future perspectives in incorporating the combination of ICPi with denosumab in clinical practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Panayiotidis MI, Trafalis DT. Parathyroid hormone related protein (PTHrP)-mediated hypercalcemia in malignancy associated with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment and related inflammatory reactions. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 77:105942. [PMID: 31699669 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, the breakthrough of immune checkpoint inhibitors has revolutionized cancer therapeutics, an enterprise not devoid of a novel constellation of unique immune-related adverse events. In this article, we present the first two patients, one with metastatic urothelial bladder cancer and another one with inoperable non-small squamous cell lung carcinoma, with immune-related parathyroid hormone related protein (PTHrP)-mediated hypercalcemia concurrent with immune-related pneumonitis following administration of anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody nivolumab. The second patient present immune-related colitis as well. In both patients the hypercalcemia developed when cancer was in remission, rendering unlikely the diagnosis of humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy. The time of onset of PTHrP-mediated hypercalcemia-11 weeks and 15 weeks after initiation of nivolumab for the first and second patient respectively- insinuated the immune-related origin of PTHrP. The concurrent immune-related pneumonitis raised the question of whether the immune-related inflammatory milieu in the context of pneumonitis could be the source of the immune-related PTHrP. In conclusion, increased awareness of nivolumab-related hypercalcemia -an extremely rare immune-related adverse event- could enable the identification of immune-related elevation of PTHrP. Moreover, our cases provide the rationale for further research in pursuit of not only the source of immune-related PTHrP expression, but also of a causative link connecting the inflammatory milieu of immune-related pneumonitis and/or immune-related colitis with PTHrP-mediated hypercalcemia. Finally, the correlation of immune-related adverse events observed herein with response to nivolumab is in line with previous reports, necessitating further consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece.
| | - Mihalis I Panayiotidis
- Department of Applied Sciences, Group of Translational Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building A516, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK.
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Building 16, 1st Floor, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527-Goudi, Athens, Greece.
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Deligiorgi MV, Mahaira H, Eftychiadis C, Kafiri G, Georgiou G, Theodoropoulos G, Konstadoulakis MM, Zografos E, Zografos GC. RANKL, OPG, TRAIL, KRas, and c-Fos expression in relation to central lymph node metastases in papillary thyroid carcinoma. J BUON 2018; 23:1029-1040. [PMID: 30358208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE RANKL, OPG and TRAIL have long been pursued in cancer. Mutated KRas proteins and c-Fos overexpression - well-recognized oncogenic events - have been conceived as coordinators of RANKL, OPG and TRAIL pathways. Considering the paucity in the relevant literature, the purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the expression of these molecules configures a distinct papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) subgroup with adverse clinicopathological characteristics. METHODS RANKL, OPG, TRAIL, KRas, and c-Fos immunohistochemical expression in relation to clinicopathological characteristics of PTC was assessed retrospectively in paraffin-embedded PTC specimens from 114 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with simultaneous central lymph node dissection (CLND). RESULTS Expression of RANKL, OPG, TRAIL, Kras and c- Fos was revealed in 78.6, 63.2, 61.4, 47.4, and 73.7% of PTC, respectively. As predominant KRas-expressing PTC histotype emerged the classical PTC (cPTC), comprising 66.7% of PTC. A significant correlation was demonstrated of RANKL, OPG, and TRAIL expression with central lymph node metastasis CLNM (p=0.007, p<0.001, and p=0.002, respectively), concerning especially cPTC as regards to RANKL (p=0.027) and OPG (p=0.006), and both cPTC (p=0.043) and follicular variant of PTC (FVPTC) (p=0.049) with regard to TRAIL. OPG expression associated significantly with multifocality (p=0.045). Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models characterized TRAIL as independent predictor of CLNM (OR=10.335, 95% CI: 1.23-86.87). CLNM correlated significantly with six pairs of coexpressions: TRAIL-KRas (p=0.011), TRAIL-c-Fos (p=0.006), OPG-c-Fos (p=0.024), RANKL-TRAIL (p<0.001), RANKL-OPG (p<0.001), TRAIL- OPG (p<0.001). CONCLUSION The present study suggested for the first time that OPG, RANKL, TRAIL expressions, either alone or in concert involving c-Fos and KRas expression, are related to CLNM. Further research is warranted to elucidate whether the examined molecules can be endorsed as indicators of aggressive PTC behavior and guide a personalized therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- First Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, Hippokratio General Hospital of Athens, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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