1
|
Favale N, Farina R, Carrieri A, Simonelli A, Severi M, Sabbioni S, Trombelli L, Scapoli C. Functional profile of oral plaque microbiome: Further insight into the bidirectional relationship between type 2 diabetes and periodontitis. Mol Oral Microbiol 2024; 39:62-79. [PMID: 37257865 DOI: 10.1111/omi.12418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence support the association between the oral microbiome and human systemic diseases. This association may be attributed to the ability of many oral microbes to influence the inflammatory microenvironment. Herein, we focused our attention on the bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and type 2 diabetes using high-resolution whole metagenomic shotgun analysis to explore the composition and functional profile of the subgingival microbiome in diabetics and non-diabetics subjects with different periodontal conditions. In the present study, the abundance of metabolic pathways encoded by oral microbes was reconstructed from the metagenome, and we identified a set of dysregulated metabolic pathways significantly enriched in the periodontitis and/or diabetic patients. These pathways were mainly involved in branched and aromatic amino acids metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis and adipocytokine signaling pathways, ferroptosis and iron homeostasis, nucleotide metabolism, and finally in the peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharides synthesis. Overall, the results of the present study provide evidence in favor of the hypothesis that during the primary inflammatory challenge, regardless of whether it is induced by periodontitis or diabetes, endotoxemia and/or the release of inflammatory cytokines cause a change in precursor and/or in circulating innate immune cells. Dysbiosis and inflammation, also via oral-gut microbiome axis or adipose tissue, reduce the efficacy of the host immune response, while fueling inflammation and can induce that metabolic/epigenetic reprogramming of chromatin accessibility of genes related to the immune response. Moreover, the presence of an enhanced ferroptosis and an imbalance in purine/pyrimidine metabolism provides new insights into the role of ferroptotic death in this comorbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Favale
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Biology and Evolution, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Farina
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Operative Unit of Dentistry, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (A.U.S.L.), Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Carrieri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Biology and Evolution, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Simonelli
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Operative Unit of Dentistry, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (A.U.S.L.), Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mattia Severi
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Operative Unit of Dentistry, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (A.U.S.L.), Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Pathology and Applied Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Leonardo Trombelli
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Operative Unit of Dentistry, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (A.U.S.L.), Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Scapoli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Biology and Evolution, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bassi C, Guerriero P, Pierantoni M, Callegari E, Sabbioni S. Novel Virus Identification through Metagenomics: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12122048. [PMID: 36556413 PMCID: PMC9784588 DOI: 10.3390/life12122048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Metagenomic Next Generation Sequencing (mNGS) allows the evaluation of complex microbial communities, avoiding isolation and cultivation of each microbial species, and does not require prior knowledge of the microbial sequences present in the sample. Applications of mNGS include virome characterization, new virus discovery and full-length viral genome reconstruction, either from virus preparations enriched in culture or directly from clinical and environmental specimens. Here, we systematically reviewed studies that describe novel virus identification through mNGS from samples of different origin (plant, animal and environment). Without imposing time limits to the search, 379 publications were identified that met the search parameters. Sample types, geographical origin, enrichment and nucleic acid extraction methods, sequencing platforms, bioinformatic analytical steps and identified viral families were described. The review highlights mNGS as a feasible method for novel virus discovery from samples of different origins, describes which kind of heterogeneous experimental and analytical protocols are currently used and provides useful information such as the different commercial kits used for the purification of nucleic acids and bioinformatics analytical pipelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Bassi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratorio per Le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Guerriero
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratorio per Le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marina Pierantoni
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Callegari
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Laboratorio per Le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-053-245-5319
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Callegari E, Guerriero P, Bassi C, D’Abundo L, Frassoldati A, Simoni E, Astolfi L, Silini EM, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. miR-199a-3p increases the anti-tumor activity of palbociclib in liver cancer models. Molecular Therapy - Nucleic Acids 2022; 30:347-349. [DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
4
|
Callegari E, Guerriero P, Bassi C, D’Abundo L, Frassoldati A, Simoni E, Astolfi L, Silini EM, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. miR-199a-3p increases the anti-tumor activity of palbociclib in liver cancer models. Molecular Therapy - Nucleic Acids 2022; 29:538-549. [PMID: 36035756 PMCID: PMC9395755 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Palbociclib is in early-stage clinical testing in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated whether the anti-tumor activity of palbociclib, which prevents the CDK4/6-mediated phosphorylation of RB1 but simultaneously activates AKT signaling, could be improved by its combination with a PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitor in liver cancer models. The selective pan-AKT inhibitor, MK-2206, or the microRNA-199a-3p were tested in combination with palbociclib in HCC cell lines and in the TG221 HCC transgenic mouse model. The combination palbociclib/MK-2206 was highly effective, but too toxic to be tolerated by mice. Conversely, the combination miR-199a-3p mimics/palbociclib not only induced a complete or partial regression of tumor lesions, but was also well tolerated. After 3 weeks of treatment, the combination produced a significant reduction in number and size of tumor nodules in comparison with palbociclib or miR-199a-3p mimics used as single agents. Moreover, we also reported the efficacy of this combination against sorafenib-resistant cells in vitro and in vivo. At the molecular level, the combination caused the simultaneous decrease of the phosphorylation of both RB1 and of AKT. Our findings provide pre-clinical evidence for the efficacy of the combination miR-199a-3p/palbociclib as anti-HCC treatment or as a new approach to overcome sorafenib resistance.
Collapse
|
5
|
Favale N, Costa S, Scapoli C, Carrieri A, Sabbioni S, Tamburini E, Benazzo A, Bernacchia G. Reconstruction of Acinetobacter johnsonii ICE_NC genome using hybrid de novo genome assemblies and identification of the 12α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase gene. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:1506-1519. [PMID: 35686660 PMCID: PMC9540589 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15657] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The role of a Acinetobacter johnsonii strain, isolated from a soil sample, in the biotransformation of bile acids (BAs) was already described but the enzymes responsible for these transformations were only partially purified and molecularly characterized. METHODS AND RESULTS This study describes the use of hybrid de novo assemblies, that combine long-read Oxford Nanopore and short-read Illumina sequencing strategies, to reconstruct the entire genome of A. johnsonii ICE_NC strain and to identify the coding region for a 12α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (12α-HSDH), involved in BAs metabolism. The de novo assembly of the A. johnsonii ICE_NC genome was generated using Canu and Unicycler, both strategies yielded a circular chromosome of about 3.6 Mb and one 117 kb long plasmid. Gene annotation was performed on the final assemblies and the gene for 12α-HSDH was detected on the plasmid. CONCLUSIONS Our findings illustrate the added value of long read sequencing in addressing the challenges of whole genome characterization and plasmid reconstruction in bacteria. These approaches also allowed the identification of the A. johnsonii ICE_NC gene for the 12α-HSDH enzyme, whose activity was confirmed at the biochemical level. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OR THE STUDY At present, this is the first report on the characterization of a 12α-HSDH gene in an A. johnsonii strain able to biotransform cholic acid into ursodeoxycholic acid, a promising therapeutic agent for several diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Favale
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Costa
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Scapoli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Carrieri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Tamburini
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Benazzo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bernacchia
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Maranini B, Ciancio G, Ferracin M, Cultrera R, Negrini M, Sabbioni S, Govoni M. microRNAs and Inflammatory Immune Response in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020288. [PMID: 35207576 PMCID: PMC8879390 DOI: 10.3390/life12020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has emerged as an international challenge with strong medical and socioeconomic impact. The spectrum of clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 is wide, covering asymptomatic or mild cases up to severe and life-threatening complications. Critical courses of SARS-CoV-2 infection are thought to be driven by the so-called “cytokine storm”, derived from an excessive immune response that induces the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In recent years, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) emerged as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in both inflammatory and infectious diseases. Therefore, the identification of SARS-CoV-2 miRNAs and host miRNAs is an important research topic, investigating the host–virus crosstalk in COVID-19 infection, trying to answer the pressing question of whether miRNA-based therapeutics can be employed to tackle SARS-CoV-2 complications. In this review, we aimed to directly address ncRNA role in SARS-CoV-2-immune system crosstalk upon COVID-19 infection, particularly focusing on inflammatory pathways and cytokine storm syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Maranini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.C.); (M.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giovanni Ciancio
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Rosario Cultrera
- Infectious Diseases, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Marcello Govoni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.C.); (M.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Scavizzi F, Bassi C, Lupini L, Guerriero P, Raspa M, Sabbioni S. A comprehensive approach for microbiota and health monitoring in mouse colonies using metagenomic shotgun sequencing. Anim Microbiome 2021; 3:53. [PMID: 34325744 PMCID: PMC8323313 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-021-00113-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Health surveillance of murine colonies employed for scientific purposes aim at detecting unwanted infection that can affect the well-being of animals and personnel, and potentially undermine scientific results. In this study, we investigated the use of a next-generation sequencing (NGS) metagenomic approach for monitoring the microbiota composition and uncovering the possible presence of pathogens in mice housed in specific pathogen-free (SPF) or conventional (non-SPF) facilities.
Results Analysis of metagenomic NGS assay through public and free algorithms and databases allowed to precisely assess the composition of mouse gut microbiome and quantify the contribution of the different microorganisms at the species level. Sequence analysis allowed the uncovering of pathogens or the presence of imbalances in the microbiota composition. In several cases, fecal pellets taken from conventional facilities were found to carry gene sequences from bacterial pathogens (Helicobacter hepaticus, Helicobacter typhlonius, Chlamydia muridarum, Streptococcus pyogenes, Rodentibacter pneumotropicus, Citrobacter rodentium, Staphylococcus aureus), intestinal protozoa (Entamoeba muris, Tritrichomonas muris, Spironucleus muris) nematoda (Aspiculuris tetraptera, Syphacia obvelata), eukaryotic parasites (Myocoptes musculinus) and RNA virus (Norwalk virus). Thus, the use of NGS metagenomics can reduce the number of tests required for the detection of pathogens and avoid the use of sentinel mice. Conclusions In summary, in comparison with standard approaches, which require multiple types of test, NGS assay can detect bacteria, fungi, DNA and RNA viruses, and eukaryotic parasites from fecal pellets in a single test. Considering the need to protect animal well-being and to improve the success and reproducibility of preclinical studies, this work provides the proof-of-concept that the use of NGS metagenomics for health monitoring of laboratory mice is a feasible and dependable approach, that is able to broaden the current concept of health monitoring of laboratory mice from “pathogen surveillance” to a more inclusive “microbiota surveillance”. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42523-021-00113-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ferdinando Scavizzi
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development, (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER- IMPC), Monterotondo Scalo, Italy
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratorio Per Le Tecnologie Delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Guerriero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development, (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER- IMPC), Monterotondo Scalo, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Laboratorio Per Le Tecnologie Delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy. .,Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Laprovitera N, Salamon I, Gelsomino F, Porcellini E, Riefolo M, Garonzi M, Tononi P, Valente S, Sabbioni S, Fontana F, Manaresi N, D’Errico A, Pantaleo MA, Ardizzoni A, Ferracin M. Genetic Characterization of Cancer of Unknown Primary Using Liquid Biopsy Approaches. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:666156. [PMID: 34178989 PMCID: PMC8222689 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.666156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancers of unknown primary (CUPs) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare metastatic tumors whose primary site cannot be identified after extensive clinical-pathological investigations. CUP patients are generally treated with empirical chemotherapy and have dismal prognosis. As recently reported, CUP genome presents potentially druggable alterations for which targeted therapies could be proposed. The paucity of tumor tissue, as well as the difficult DNA testing and the lack of dedicated panels for target gene sequencing are further relevant limitations. Here, we propose that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) could be used to identify actionable mutations in CUP patients. Blood was longitudinally collected from two CUP patients. CTCs were isolated with CELLSEARCH® and DEPArrayTM NxT and Parsortix systems, immunophenotypically characterized and used for single-cell genomic characterization with Ampli1TM kits. Circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA), purified from plasma at different time points, was tested for tumor mutations with a CUP-dedicated, 92-gene custom panel using SureSelect Target Enrichment technology. In parallel, FFPE tumor tissue was analyzed with three different assays: FoundationOne CDx assay, DEPArray LibPrep and OncoSeek Panel, and the SureSelect custom panel. These approaches identified the same mutations, when the gene was covered by the panel, with the exception of an insertion in APC gene. which was detected by OncoSeek and SureSelect panels but not FoundationOne. FGFR2 and CCNE1 gene amplifications were detected in single CTCs, tumor tissue, and ccfDNAs in one patient. A somatic variant in ARID1A gene (p.R1276∗) was detected in the tumor tissue and ccfDNAs. The alterations were validated by Droplet Digital PCR in all ccfDNA samples collected during tumor evolution. CTCs from a second patient presented a pattern of recurrent amplifications in ASPM and SEPT9 genes and loss of FANCC. The 92-gene custom panel identified 16 non-synonymous somatic alterations in ccfDNA, including a deletion (I1485Rfs∗19) and a somatic mutation (p. A1487V) in ARID1A gene and a point mutation in FGFR2 gene (p.G384R). Our results support the feasibility of non-invasive liquid biopsy testing in CUP cases, either using ctDNA or CTCs, to identify CUP genetic alterations with broad NGS panels covering the most frequently mutated genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Laprovitera
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Salamon
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Gelsomino
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Divisione di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Porcellini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mattia Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Pathology Unit, Sant’Orsola Hospital, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Paola Tononi
- Menarini Silicon Biosystems S.p.A, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sabrina Valente
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonia D’Errico
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Pathology Unit, Sant’Orsola Hospital, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria A. Pantaleo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Divisione di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Divisione di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Laprovitera N, Riefolo M, Porcellini E, Durante G, Garajova I, Vasuri F, Aigelsreiter A, Dandachi N, Benvenuto G, Agostinis F, Sabbioni S, Berindan Neagoe I, Romualdi C, Ardizzoni A, Trerè D, Pichler M, D'Errico A, Ferracin M. MicroRNA expression profiling with a droplet digital PCR assay enables molecular diagnosis and prognosis of cancers of unknown primary. Mol Oncol 2021; 15:2732-2751. [PMID: 34075699 PMCID: PMC8486570 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is responsible for the majority of cancer‐related deaths. Particularly, challenging is the management of metastatic cancer of unknown primary site (CUP), whose tissue of origin (TOO) remains undetermined even after extensive investigations and whose therapy is rather unspecific and poorly effective. Molecular approaches to identify the most probable TOO of CUPs can overcome some of these issues. In this study, we applied a predetermined set of 89 microRNAs (miRNAs) to infer the TOO of 53 metastatic cancers of unknown or uncertain origin. The miRNA expression was assessed with droplet digital PCR in 159 samples, including primary tumors from 17 tumor classes (reference set) and metastases of known and unknown origin (test set). We combined two different statistical models for class prediction to obtain the most probable TOOs: the nearest shrunken centroids approach of Prediction Analysis of Microarrays (PAMR) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) models. The molecular test was successful for all formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded samples and provided a TOO identification within 1 week from the biopsy procedure. The most frequently predicted origins were gastrointestinal, pancreas, breast, lung, and bile duct. The assay was applied also to multiple metastases from the same CUP, collected from different metastatic sites: The predictions showed a strong agreement, intrinsically validating our assay. The final CUPs' TOO prediction was compared with the clinicopathological hypothesis of primary site. Moreover, a panel of 13 miRNAs proved to have prognostic value and be associated with overall survival in CUP patients. Our study demonstrated that miRNA expression profiling in CUP samples could be employed as diagnostic and prognostic test. Our molecular analysis can be performed on request, concomitantly with standard diagnostic workup and in association with genetic profiling, to offer valuable indications about the possible primary site, thereby supporting treatment decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Laprovitera
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mattia Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy.,Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Porcellini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgio Durante
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Vasuri
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Ariane Aigelsreiter
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | - Nadia Dandachi
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | | | | | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ioana Berindan Neagoe
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy.,Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Trerè
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Martin Pichler
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | - Antonietta D'Errico
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy.,Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Laprovitera N, Porcellini E, Riefolo M, Broseghini E, Garajova I, Sabbioni S, Pichler M, Ardizzoni A, D'Errico A, Ferracin M. Abstract 5432: Cancer of unknown primary site-of-origin: An enigma ready to be miR-solved. Cancer Res 2020. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2020-5432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background Cancer of Unknown Primary is a rare syndrome of metastatic cancers for which the primary site cannot be recognized after detailed physical examinations, blood analyses, imaging and immunohistochemical (IHC) testing. CUPs make up 3-5% of newly diagnosed cancers worldwide and represent an important diagnostic and clinical problem. Treatment failure to empirical chemotherapy is common, resulting in progressive disease and poor prognosis. We and others proposed that a molecular inference of the tissue of origin could be feasible for most CUP tumors (Ferracin et al. J Pathol, 2011), thus giving access to more effective therapeutic agents and potentially extending CUP patient life-expectancy.
Methods We optimized a cancer-type classifier based on microRNA (miRNA) expression for the prediction of CUP primary tumor site (Laprovitera et al., Front Oncol. 2018). Specifically, we designed a molecular assay to quantify the absolute copy number of 89 miRNAs in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples using EvaGreen-based Droplet Digital PCR (BioRad). We tested 153 samples from three groups: primary tumors (N=95), metastases of known origin (N=10) and cancers of unknown origin (N=48). CUP diagnosis was obtained after a detailed histo-pathological investigation as per CUP diagnostic guidelines (NCCN occult primary v.2-2019 and ESMO guidelines). The study was approved by the local ethical committee.
Results We investigated a pre-determined set of 89 miRNAs to infer the site-of origin of metastatic cancers of unknown or uncertain primary. Primary tumors from 16 different sites (lung, pancreas, liver, bile duct, kidney, bowel, testis, ovary, endometrium, stomach, bladder, breast, prostate, melanoma, gastrointestinal neuroendocrine, head and neck) were tested for absolute miRNA expression and used to train our classifier (Tibshirani et al. PNAS, 2002). We used the metastases of known origin as a test-set for our molecular prediction. We applied the shrunken centroids approach as predictive algorithm to obtain the most probable CUP site(s)-of- origin. Our results were judged against the hypothesized primary site suggested by standard diagnostic workup and pathological assessment. The molecular test was successfully applied to all CUP samples and provided a site-of-origin identification (with a probability > 50%) for all samples, potentially within a one-week time frame from sample inclusion.
Conclusions Our study demonstrated that miRNA expression profiling in CUP samples have the potential to be employed in a clinical setting. Our molecular analysis can be performed on-request, concomitantly with the standard diagnostic workup and in association with genetic profiling, to offer valuable indication about the possible primary site thereby supporting treatment decisions. This work was supported by grants from the Italian Association for Cancer Research (AIRC) to MF (IG 18464).
Citation Format: Noemi Laprovitera, Elisa Porcellini, Mattia Riefolo, Elisabetta Broseghini, Ingrid Garajova, Silvia Sabbioni, Martin Pichler, Andrea Ardizzoni, Antonia D'Errico, Manuela Ferracin. Cancer of unknown primary site-of-origin: An enigma ready to be miR-solved [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 5432.
Collapse
|
11
|
Roncarati R, Lupini L, Miotto E, Saccenti E, Mascetti S, Morandi L, Bassi C, Rasio D, Callegari E, Conti V, Rinaldi R, Lanza G, Gafà R, Papi A, Frassoldati A, Sabbioni S, Ravenna F, Casoni GL, Negrini M. Molecular testing on bronchial washings for the diagnosis and predictive assessment of lung cancer. Mol Oncol 2020; 14:2163-2175. [PMID: 32441866 PMCID: PMC7463327 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytopathological analyses of bronchial washings (BWs) collected during fibre‐optic bronchoscopy are often inconclusive for lung cancer diagnosis. To address this issue, we assessed the suitability of conducting molecular analyses on BWs, with the aim to improve the diagnosis and outcome prediction of lung cancer. The methylation status of RASSF1A, CDH1, DLC1 and PRPH was analysed in BW samples from 91 lung cancer patients and 31 controls, using a novel two‐colour droplet digital methylation‐specific PCR (ddMSP) technique. Mutations in ALK, BRAF, EGFR, ERBB2, KRAS, MAP2K1, MET, NRAS, PIK3CA, ROS1 and TP53 and gene fusions of ALK, RET and ROS1 were also investigated, using next‐generation sequencing on 73 lung cancer patients and 14 tumour‐free individuals. Our four‐gene methylation panel had significant diagnostic power, with 97% sensitivity and 74% specificity (relative risk, 7.3; odds ratio, 6.1; 95% confidence interval, 12.7–127). In contrast, gene mutation analysis had a remarkable value for predictive, but not for diagnostic, purposes. Actionable mutations in EGFR, HER2 and ROS1 as well as in other cancer genes (KRAS, PIK3CA and TP53) were detected. Concordance with gene mutations uncovered in tumour biopsies was higher than 90%. In addition, bronchial‐washing analyses permitted complete patient coverage and the detection of additional actionable mutations. In conclusion, BWs are a useful material on which to perform molecular tests based on gene panels: aberrant gene methylation and mutation analyses could be performed as approaches accompanying current diagnostic and predictive assays during the initial workup phase. This study establishes the grounds for further prospective investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Roncarati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.,CNR, Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research, National Research Council of Italy, Milano, Italy
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Miotto
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Saccenti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Susanna Mascetti
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Respiratory Endoscopy, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy
| | - Luca Morandi
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Respiratory Endoscopy, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate, Tecnopolo, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Debora Rasio
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant' Andrea Hospital, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Callegari
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Conti
- Pneumology Division, State Hospital, San Marino, Republic of San Marino
| | - Rosa Rinaldi
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lanza
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Anatomic Pathology, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.,Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Anatomic Pathology, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy
| | - Alberto Papi
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Respiratory Endoscopy, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonio Frassoldati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.,Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Medical Oncology Unit, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate, Tecnopolo, University of Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Franco Ravenna
- Division of Pneumology and Intensive Respiratory Unit, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantova, Italy
| | - Gian L Casoni
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Division of Respiratory Endoscopy, S. Anna Hospital, Cona, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate, Tecnopolo, University of Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Farina R, Severi M, Carrieri A, Miotto E, Sabbioni S, Trombelli L, Scapoli C. Whole metagenomic shotgun sequencing of the subgingival microbiome of diabetics and non-diabetics with different periodontal conditions. Arch Oral Biol 2019; 104:13-23. [PMID: 31153098 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2019.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to use high-resolution whole metagenomic shotgun sequencing to characterize the subgingival microbiome of patients with/without type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and with/without periodontitis. DESIGN Twelve subjects, falling into one of the four study groups based on the presence/absence of poorly controlled type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and moderate-severe periodontitis, were selected. For each eligible subject, subgingival plaque samples were collected at 4 sites, all representative of the periodontal condition of the individual (i.e., non-bleeding sulci in subjects without a history of periodontitis, bleeding pockets in patients with moderate-severe periodontitis). The subgingival microbiome was evaluated using high-resolution whole metagenomic shotgun sequencing. RESULTS The results showed that: (i) the presence of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and/or periodontitis were associated with a tendency of the subgingival microbiome to decrease in richness and diversity; (ii) the presence of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus was not associated with significant differences in the relative abundance of one or more species in patients either with or without periodontitis; (iii) the presence of periodontitis was associated with a significantly higher relative abundance of Anaerolineaceae bacterium oral taxon 439 in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients. CONCLUSIONS Whole metagenomic shotgun sequencing of the subgingival microbiome was extremely effective in the detection of low-abundant taxon. Our results point out a significantly higher relative abundance of Anaerolineaceae bacterium oral taxon 439 in patients with moderate to severe periodontitis vs patients without history of periodontitis, which was maintained when the comparison was restricted to type 2 diabetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Farina
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Italy; Operative Unit of Dentistry, University-Hospital of Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Mattia Severi
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Carrieri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Biology and Evolution, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Miotto
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Pathology and Applied Microbiology,University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Pathology and Applied Microbiology,University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Leonardo Trombelli
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Italy; Operative Unit of Dentistry, University-Hospital of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Scapoli
- Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, University of Ferrara, Italy; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology - Section of Biology and Evolution, University of Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Callegari E, Domenicali M, Shankaraiah RC, D'Abundo L, Guerriero P, Giannone F, Baldassarre M, Bassi C, Elamin BK, Zagatti B, Ferracin M, Fornari F, Altavilla G, Blandamura S, Silini EM, Gramantieri L, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. MicroRNA-Based Prophylaxis in a Mouse Model of Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer. Mol Ther Nucleic Acids 2019; 14:239-250. [PMID: 30641476 PMCID: PMC6330511 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Most hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) arise in the context of chronic liver disease and/or cirrhosis. Thus, chemoprevention in individuals at risk represents an important but yet unproven approach. In this study, we investigated the ability of microRNA (miRNA)-based molecules to prevent liver cancer development in a cirrhotic model. To this end, we developed a mouse model able to recapitulate the natural progression from fibrosis to HCC, and then we tested the prophylactic activity of an miRNA-based approach in the model. The experiments were carried out in the TG221 transgenic mouse, characterized by the overexpression of miR-221 in the liver and predisposed to the development of liver tumors. TG221 as well as wild-type mice were exposed to the hepatotoxin carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce chronic liver damage. All mice developed liver cirrhosis, but only TG221 mice developed nodular lesions in 100% of cases within 6 months of age. The spectrum of lesions ranged from dysplastic foci to carcinomas. To investigate miRNA-based prophylactic approaches, anti-miR-221 oligonucleotides or miR-199a-3p mimics were administered to TG221 CCl4-treated mice. Compared to control animals, a significant reduction in number, size, and, most significantly, malignant phenotype of liver nodules was observed, thus demonstrating an important prophylactic action of miRNA-based molecules. In summary, in this article, we not only report a simple model of liver cancer in a cirrhotic background but also provide evidence for a potential miRNA-based approach to reduce the risk of HCC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Marco Domenicali
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ram Charan Shankaraiah
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucilla D'Abundo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Guerriero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Giannone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bahaeldin K Elamin
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922 Bisha, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, 11115 Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Barbara Zagatti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Stella Blandamura
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Enrico Maria Silini
- Section of Anatomy and Pathology, University Hospital of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Callegari E, D'Abundo L, Guerriero P, Simioni C, Elamin BK, Russo M, Cani A, Bassi C, Zagatti B, Giacomelli L, Blandamura S, Moshiri F, Ultimo S, Frassoldati A, Altavilla G, Gramantieri L, Neri LM, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. miR-199a-3p Modulates MTOR and PAK4 Pathways and Inhibits Tumor Growth in a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Transgenic Mouse Model. Mol Ther Nucleic Acids 2018; 11:485-493. [PMID: 29858083 PMCID: PMC5992479 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [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: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Prognosis is poor, and therapeutic options are limited. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential therapeutic molecules against cancer. Here, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of miR-199a-3p, an miRNA highly expressed in normal liver and downregulated in virtually all HCCs. The therapeutic value of miR-199a-3p mimic molecules was assayed in the TG221 mouse, a transgenic model highly predisposed to the development of liver cancer. Administration of miR-199a-3p mimics in the TG221 transgenic mouse showing liver cancer led to a significant reduction of number and size of tumor nodules compared to control animals. In vivo delivery confirmed protein downregulation of the miR-199a-3p direct targets, mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR) and p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4), ultimately leading to the repression of FOXM1. Remarkably, the anti-tumor activity of miR-199a-3p mimics was comparable to that obtained with sorafenib. These results suggested that miR-199a-3p may be considered a promising HCC therapeutic option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Lucilla D'Abundo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Guerriero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carolina Simioni
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bahaeldin K Elamin
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922 Bisha, Saudi Arabia; Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, 11115 Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Marta Russo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alice Cani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Barbara Zagatti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Stella Blandamura
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Farzaneh Moshiri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 11369 Tehran, Iran
| | - Simona Ultimo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonio Frassoldati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Laura Gramantieri
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Maria Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Moshiri F, Salvi A, Gramantieri L, Sangiovanni A, Guerriero P, De Petro G, Bassi C, Lupini L, Sattari A, Cheung D, Veneziano D, Nigita G, Shankaraiah RC, Portolani N, Carcoforo P, Fornari F, Bolondi L, Frassoldati A, Sabbioni S, Colombo M, Croce CM, Negrini M. Circulating miR-106b-3p, miR-101-3p and miR-1246 as diagnostic biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2018; 9:15350-15364. [PMID: 29632649 PMCID: PMC5880609 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer and second leading cause of cancer related death worldwide. Most HCCs occur in a damaged cirrhotic background and it may be difficult to discriminate between regenerative nodules and early HCCs. No dependable molecular biomarker exists for the early detection of HCC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted attention as potential blood-based biomarkers. To identify circulating miRNAs with diagnostic potential in HCC, we performed preliminary RNAseq studies on plasma samples from a small set of HCC patients, cirrhotic patients and healthy controls. Then, out of the identified miRNAs, we investigated miR-101-3p, miR-106b-3p, miR-1246 and miR-411-5p in plasma of independent HCC patients' cohorts. The use of droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) confirmed the aberrant levels of these miRNAs. The diagnostic performances of each miRNA and their combinations were measured using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analyses: a classifier consisting of miR-101-3p, miR-1246 and miR-106b-3p produced the best diagnostic precision in plasma of HCC vs. cirrhotic patients (AUC = 0.99). A similar performance was found when the levels of miRNAs of HCC patients were compared to healthy controls (AUC = 1.00). We extended the analyses of the same miRNAs to serum samples. In serum of HCC vs. cirrhotic patients, the combination of miR-101-3p and miR-106b-3p exhibited the best diagnostic accuracy with an AUC = 0.96. Thus, circulating miR-101-3p, miR-106b-3p and miR-1246, either individually or in combination, exhibit a considerable potential value as diagnostic biomarkers of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Moshiri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alessandro Salvi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Biology and Genetics, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Angelo Sangiovanni
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Guerriero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppina De Petro
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Biology and Genetics, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Arash Sattari
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Douglas Cheung
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Dario Veneziano
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ram C Shankaraiah
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nazario Portolani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Surgical Clinic, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Carcoforo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luigi Bolondi
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Colombo
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo M Croce
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lupini L, Pepe F, Ferracin M, Braconi C, Callegari E, Pagotto S, Spizzo R, Zagatti B, Lanuti P, Fornari F, Ghasemi R, Mariani-Costantini R, Bolondi L, Gramantieri L, Calin GA, Sabbioni S, Visone R, Veronese A, Negrini M. Over-expression of the miR-483-3p overcomes the miR-145/TP53 pro-apoptotic loop in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2017; 7:31361-71. [PMID: 27120784 PMCID: PMC5058762 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The miR-145-5p, which induces TP53-dependent apoptosis, is down-regulated in several tumors, including hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), but some HCCs show physiological expression of this miR. Here we demonstrate that in HCC cells carrying wild-type TP53 the steady activation of the miR-145 signaling selects clones resistant to apoptosis via up-regulation of the oncogenic miR-483-3p. Expression of the miR-145-5p and of the miR-483-3p correlated negatively in non-neoplastic liver (n=41; ρ=−0.342, P=0.028), but positively in HCCs (n=21; ρ=0.791, P<0.0001), which we hypothesized to be due to impaired glucose metabolism in HCCs versus normal liver. In fact, when liver cancer cells were grown in low glucose, miR-145-5p lowered miR-483-3p expression, allowing apoptosis, whereas when cells were grown in high glucose the levels of miR-483-3p increased, reducing the apoptotic rate. This indicates that depending on glucose availability the miR-145-5p has double effects on the miR-483-3p, either inhibitory or stimulatory. Moreover, resistance to apoptosis in clones overexpressing both miR-145-5p and miR-483-3p was abrogated by silencing the miR-483-3p. Our data highlight a novel mechanism of resistance to apoptosis in liver cancer cells harbouring wild type TP53 and suggest a potential role of miR-145-5p and miR-483-3p as druggable targets in a subset of HCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Felice Pepe
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Braconi
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Elisa Callegari
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sara Pagotto
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Zagatti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Lanuti
- Department of Medicine and Aging Science, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Reza Ghasemi
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
| | - Renato Mariani-Costantini
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Luigi Bolondi
- S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - George A Calin
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Medical Centre, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rosa Visone
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Angelo Veronese
- Unit of General Pathology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), G. d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ferracin M, Salamon I, Lupini L, Miotto E, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. Circulating MicroRNA Quantification Using DNA-binding Dye Chemistry and Droplet Digital PCR. J Vis Exp 2016. [PMID: 27403944 DOI: 10.3791/54102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating (of cell-free) microRNAs (miRNAs) are released from cells into the blood stream. The amount of specific microRNAs in the circulation has been linked to a disease state and has the potential to be used as disease biomarker. A sensitive and accurate method for circulating microRNA quantification using a dye-based chemistry and droplet digital PCR technology has been recently developed. Specifically, using Locked Nucleic Acid (LNA)-based miRNA-specific primers with a green fluorescent DNA-binding dye in a compatible droplet digital PCR system it is possible to obtain the absolute quantification of specific miRNAs. Here, we describe how performing this technique to assess miRNA amount in biological fluids, such as plasma and serum, is both feasible and effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine - DIMES, University of Bologna;
| | - Irene Salamon
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara
| | - Elena Miotto
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lupini L, Bassi C, Mlcochova J, Musa G, Russo M, Vychytilova-Faltejskova P, Svoboda M, Sabbioni S, Nemecek R, Slaby O, Negrini M. Prediction of response to anti-EGFR antibody-based therapies by multigene sequencing in colorectal cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:808. [PMID: 26508446 PMCID: PMC4624582 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1752-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibodies (moAbs) cetuximab or panitumumab are administered to colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who harbor wild-type RAS proto-oncogenes. However, a percentage of patients do not respond to this treatment. In addition to mutations in the RAS genes, mutations in other genes, such as BRAF, PI3KCA, or PTEN, could be involved in the resistance to anti-EGFR moAb therapy. METHODS In order to develop a comprehensive approach for the detection of mutations and to eventually identify other genes responsible for resistance to anti-EGFR moAbs, we investigated a panel of 21 genes by parallel sequencing on the Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine platform. We sequenced 65 CRCs that were treated with cetuximab or panitumumab. Among these, 37 samples were responsive and 28 were resistant. RESULTS We confirmed that mutations in EGFR-pathway genes (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, PI3KCA) were relevant for conferring resistance to therapy and could predict response (p = 0.001). After exclusion of KRAS, NRAS, BRAF and PI3KCA combined mutations could still significantly associate to resistant phenotype (p = 0.045, by Fisher exact test). In addition, mutations in FBXW7 and SMAD4 were prevalent in cases that were non-responsive to anti-EGFR moAb. After we combined the mutations of all genes (excluding KRAS), the ability to predict response to therapy improved significantly (p = 0.002, by Fisher exact test). CONCLUSIONS The combination of mutations at KRAS and at the five gene panel demonstrates the usefulness and feasibility of multigene sequencing to assess response to anti-EGFR moAbs. The application of parallel sequencing technology in clinical practice, in addition to its innate ability to simultaneously examine the genetic status of several cancer genes, proved to be more accurate and sensitive than the presently in use traditional approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lupini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Jitka Mlcochova
- Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC), Molecular Oncology II, University Campus Bohunice Building A3, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Gentian Musa
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Marta Russo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Petra Vychytilova-Faltejskova
- Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC), Molecular Oncology II, University Campus Bohunice Building A3, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Marek Svoboda
- Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC), Molecular Oncology II, University Campus Bohunice Building A3, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Radim Nemecek
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Ondrej Slaby
- Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC), Molecular Oncology II, University Campus Bohunice Building A3, Kamenice 5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bresin A, Callegari E, D'Abundo L, Cattani C, Bassi C, Zagatti B, Narducci MG, Caprini E, Pekarsky Y, Croce CM, Sabbioni S, Negrini M, Russo G. Abstract 3974: A preclinical study for miR181b as therapeutic in Eu-TCL1FL-tg mouse model for CLL. Cancer Res 2015. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2015-3974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignancy of B cells with immunophenotype of memory cells. Downstream pathways to BCR, like NFkB, AKT and ERK, and anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl2 and Mcl1, are thought to contribute to expansion and survival of the malignant cells. CLL patients show different clinical course: tumor clones having no V-gene mutations, many CD38+ or ZAP-70+ B cells, chromosome 11q deletion and high expression of TCL1, had an aggressive, usually fatal course, whereas patients with mutated clones, few CD38+ or ZAP-70+ B cells and low TCL1 expression, had an indolent course. Recent studies identified a microRNA signature associated with prognosis and progression in B-CLL. Particularly, miR181b is down-regulated in aggressive forms of CLL and its expression is inversely correlated to Tcl1 levels.
An increasing number of studies are considering microRNAs as potentially useful therapeutic agents. Given that MCL-1, BCL-2 and TCL1 are proved targets for miR181b, that Akt activation is enhanced by Tcl1 and a crosstalk between Akt and ERK or NFkB exists, we performed a preclinical evaluation of miR181b therapeutic efficacy in a mouse model of CLL, the Eu-TCL1 transgenic mouse, previously generated by us.
In vitro enforced expression of miR-181b mimics induced a significant apoptotic effect in human B-cell line EHEB, as well as in mouse Eμ-TCL1 leukemic splenocytes. Molecular analyses revealed that miR-181b not only affected the expression of Tcl1, Bcl2 and Mcl1 anti-apoptotic proteins, but also increased the expression level of the NFkB inhibitor protein IkB-alpha and reduced the phosphorylation levels of Akt and Erk1/2. Notably, an anti-TCL1 siRNA could similarly down-modulate Tcl1 but exhibited a reduced or absent activity on other relevant proteins, as well as a reduced effect on cell apoptosis and viability. In vivo studies indicated a significant capability of miR-181b in reducing leukemic cells expansion and increasing survival of treated mice. These data indicate that miR-181b exerts a broad range of actions, affecting proliferative, survival and apoptotic pathways, both in mice and human, and can potentially be employed to reduce expansion of B-CLL leukemic cells.
Citation Format: Antonella Bresin, Elisa Callegari, Lucilla D'Abundo, Caterina Cattani, Cristian Bassi, Barbara Zagatti, Maria Grazia Narducci, Elisabetta Caprini, Yuri Pekarsky, Carlo Maria Croce, Silvia Sabbioni, Massimo Negrini, Giandomenico Russo. A preclinical study for miR181b as therapeutic in Eu-TCL1FL-tg mouse model for CLL. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 3974. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-3974
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Callegari
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucilla D'Abundo
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Cristian Bassi
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Barbara Zagatti
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Yuri Pekarsky
- 3Human Cancer Genetics Program and Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics OSU School of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Carlo Maria Croce
- 3Human Cancer Genetics Program and Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics OSU School of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- 2Università di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Ferrara, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fainardi E, Bortolotti D, Bolzani S, Castellazzi M, Tamborino C, Roversi G, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Casetta I, Gentili V, Granieri E, Rizzo R, Granieri E, Castellazzi M, Casetta I, Tola MR, Fainardi E, Dallocchio F, Bellini T, Rizzo R, Rotola A, Di Luca D, Seraceni S, Contini C, Sabbioni S, Negrini M, Tognon M, Antonelli T, Groppo E, Gentile M, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Ceruti S, Manfrinato MR, Trentini A, Bortolotti D, Miotto E, Ferracin M, Mazzoni E, Pietrobon S, Masini I, Rotondo JC, Martini F, Baruzzi A, Roberto D’Alessandro R, Michelucci R, Salvi F, Stecchi S, Scandellari C, Terzano G, Granella F, Nichelli P, Sola P, Ferraro D, Vitetta F, Simone AM, Bedin R, Marcello N, Motti L, Montepietra S, Guidetti D, Immovilli P, Montanari E, Pesci I, Guareschi A, Greco G, Santangelo M, Mauro AM, Malagù S, Rasi F, Spadoni M, Galeotti M, Fiorani L, Neri W, Ravasio A, Pasquinelli M, Gutman S, Monaldini C. Cerebrospinal fluid amounts of HLA-G in dimeric form are strongly associated to patients with MRI inactive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2015; 22:245-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458515590647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: The relevance of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G in dimeric form in multiple sclerosis (MS) is still unknown. Objective: To investigate the contribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HLA-G dimers in MS pathogenesis. Methods: CSF amounts of 78-kDa HLA-G dimers were measured by western blot analysis in 80 MS relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients and in 81 inflammatory and 70 non-inflammatory controls. Results: CSF amounts of 78kDa HLA-G dimers were more frequent in RRMS than in inflammatory ( p<0.01) and non-inflammatory controls ( p<0.001) and in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) inactive than in MRI active RRMS ( p<0.00001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that HLA-G dimers may be implicated in termination of inflammatory response occurring in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neuroradilogy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Bolzani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmine Tamborino
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Roversi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Caniatti
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Casetta
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mangolini A, Ferracin M, Zanzi MV, Saccenti E, Ebnaof SO, Poma VV, Sanz JM, Passaro A, Pedriali M, Frassoldati A, Querzoli P, Sabbioni S, Carcoforo P, Hollingsworth A, Negrini M. Diagnostic and prognostic microRNAs in the serum of breast cancer patients measured by droplet digital PCR. Biomark Res 2015; 3:12. [PMID: 26120471 PMCID: PMC4483205 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-015-0037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [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: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer circulating biomarkers include carcinoembryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 15–3, which are used for patient follow-up. Since sensitivity and specificity are low, novel and more useful biomarkers are needed. The presence of stable circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in serum or plasma suggested a promising role for these tiny RNAs as cancer biomarkers. To acquire an absolute concentration of circulating miRNAs and reduce the impact of preanalytical and analytical variables, we used the droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) technique. Results We investigated a panel of five miRNAs in the sera of two independent cohorts of breast cancer patients and disease-free controls. The study showed that miR-148b-3p and miR-652-3p levels were significantly lower in the serum of breast cancer patients than that in controls in both cohorts. For these two miRNAs, the stratification of breast cancer patients versus controls was confirmed by receiver operating characteristic curve analyses. In addition, we showed that higher levels of serum miR-10b-5p were associated with clinicobiological markers of poor prognosis. Conclusions The study revealed the usefulness of the ddPCR approach for the quantification of circulating miRNAs. The use of the ddPCR quantitative approach revealed very good agreement between two independent cohorts in terms of comparable absolute miRNA concentrations and consistent trends of dysregulation in breast cancer patients versus controls. Overall, this study supports the use of the quantitative ddPCR approach for monitoring the absolute levels of diagnostic and prognostic tumor-specific circulating miRNAs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40364-015-0037-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mangolini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy ; Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Zanzi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Saccenti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sayda Omer Ebnaof
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Vultaggio Poma
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Juana M Sanz
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angela Passaro
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Pedriali
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Querzoli
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Carcoforo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alan Hollingsworth
- Mercy Cancer Resource Center/Women's Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma USA
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy ; Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ferrajoli A, Ivan C, Ciccone M, Shimizu M, Kita Y, Ohtsuka M, D'Abundo L, Qiang J, Lerner S, Nouraee N, Rabe KG, Rassenti LZ, Van Roosbroeck K, Manning JT, Yuan Y, Zhang X, Shanafelt TD, Wierda WG, Sabbioni S, Tarrand JJ, Estrov Z, Radovich M, Liang H, Negrini M, Kipps TJ, Kay NE, Keating M, Calin GA. Epstein-Barr Virus MicroRNAs are Expressed in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Correlate with Overall Survival. EBioMedicine 2015; 2:572-82. [PMID: 26288818 PMCID: PMC4535165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2015.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 02/22/2015] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although numerous studies highlighted the role of Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) in B-cell transformation, the involvement of EBV proteins or genome in the development of the most frequent adult leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), has not yet been defined. We hypothesized that EBV microRNAs contribute to progression of CLL and demonstrated the presence of EBV miRNAs in B-cells, in paraffin-embedded bone marrow biopsies and in the plasma of patients with CLL by using three different methods (small RNA-sequencing, quantitative reverse transcription PCR [q-RT-PCR] and miRNAs in situ hybridization [miRNA-ISH]). We found that EBV miRNA BHRF1-1 expression levels were significantly higher in the plasma of patients with CLL compared with healthy individuals (p < 0 · 0001). Notably, BHRF1-1 as well as BART4 expression were detected in the plasma of either seronegative or seropositive (anti-EBNA-1 IgG and EBV DNA tested) patients; similarly, miRNA-ISH stained positive in bone marrow specimens while LMP1 and EBER immunohistochemistry failed to detect viral proteins and RNA. We also found that BHRF1-1 plasma expression levels were positively associated with elevated beta-2-microglobulin levels and advanced Rai stages and observed a correlation between higher BHRF1-1 expression levels and shorter survival in two independent patients' cohorts. Furthermore, in the majority of CLL cases where BHRF1-1 was exogenously induced in primary malignant B cells the levels of TP53 were reduced. Our findings suggest that EBV may have a role in the process of disease progression in CLL and that miRNA RT-PCR and miRNAs ISH could represent additional methods to detect EBV miRNAs in patients with CLL. EBV miRNA BHRF1-1 expression levels are higher in the plasma of patients with CLL compared with healthy individuals. EBV miRNAs are expressed in both, seronegative and seropositive (anti-EBNA-1 IgG and EBV DNA tested) patients with CLL BHRF1-1 expression levels are associated with unfavorable prognostic markers and shorter survival
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Disease-Free Survival
- Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens/genetics
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/genetics
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/mortality
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/virology
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- RNA, Viral/genetics
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53
- Viral Matrix Proteins/genetics
- Viral Proteins/blood
- Viral Proteins/genetics
- beta 2-Microglobulin/blood
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ferrajoli
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
| | - Cristina Ivan
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Maria Ciccone
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Masayoshi Shimizu
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yoshiaki Kita
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Masahisha Ohtsuka
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lucilla D'Abundo
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, 44100, Via Fossato di Mortara, 70, Italy
| | - Jun Qiang
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harbin Medical University, 150081 Harbin, China
| | - Susan Lerner
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
| | - Nazila Nouraee
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kari G. Rabe
- Department of Health Science Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Laura Z. Rassenti
- University of California San Diego, Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, 3855 Health Sciences Dr, Rm 4307, San Diego, CA 92093-0820, USA
| | - Katrien Van Roosbroeck
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John T. Manning
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate Program in Structural and Computational Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xinna Zhang
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tait D. Shanafelt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - William G. Wierda
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, 44100, Via Fossato di Mortara, 70, Italy
| | - Jeffrey J. Tarrand
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zeev Estrov
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
| | - Milan Radovich
- Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 545 Barnhill Drive, Emerson Hall 203, IN, 46202 USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 545 Barnhill Drive, Emerson Hall 203, IN, 46202 USA
| | - Han Liang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler Street, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, 44100, Via Fossato di Mortara, 70, Italy
| | - Thomas J. Kipps
- University of California San Diego, Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, 3855 Health Sciences Dr, Rm 4307, San Diego, CA 92093-0820, USA
| | - Neil E. Kay
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Michael Keating
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
- Corresponding author.
| | - George A. Calin
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030-1402, USA
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence to: G.A. Calin, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Unit 1950, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Negrini M, Cutrona G, Bassi C, Fabris S, Zagatti B, Colombo M, Ferracin M, D'Abundo L, Saccenti E, Matis S, Lionetti M, Agnelli L, Gentile M, Recchia AG, Bossio S, Reverberi D, Rigolin G, Calin GA, Sabbioni S, Russo G, Tassone P, Morabito F, Ferrarini M, Neri A. microRNAome expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: comparison with normal B-cell subsets and correlations with prognostic and clinical parameters. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:4141-53. [PMID: 24916701 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-2497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite its indolent nature, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) remains an incurable disease. To establish the potential pathogenic role of miRNAs, the identification of deregulated miRNAs in CLL is crucial. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We analyzed the expression of 723 mature miRNAs in 217 early-stage CLL cases and in various different normal B-cell subpopulations from tonsils and peripheral blood. RESULTS Our analyses indicated that CLL cells exhibited a miRNA expression pattern that was most similar to the subsets of antigen-experienced and marginal zone-like B cells. These normal subpopulations were used as reference to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in comparison with CLL. Differences related to the expression of 25 miRNAs were found to be independent from IGHV mutation status or cytogenetic aberrations. These differences, confirmed in an independent validation set, led to a novel comprehensive description of miRNAs potentially involved in CLL. We also identified miRNAs whose expression was distinctive of cases with mutated versus unmutated IGHV genes or cases with 13q, 11q, and 17p deletions and trisomy 12. Finally, analysis of clinical data in relation to miRNA expression revealed that miR26a, miR532-3p, miR146-5p, and miR29c* were strongly associated with progression-free survival. CONCLUSION This study provides novel information on miRNAs expressed by CLL and normal B-cell subtypes, with implication on the cell of origin of CLL. In addition, our findings indicate a number of deregulated miRNAs in CLL, which may play a pathogenic role and promote disease progression. Collectively, this information can be used for developing miRNA-based therapeutic strategies in CLL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Laboratorio per Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate, Tecnopolo,
| | | | - Cristian Bassi
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale
| | - Sonia Fabris
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università di Milano and UOC Oncoematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano
| | - Barbara Zagatti
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale
| | | | - Manuela Ferracin
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Laboratorio per Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate, Tecnopolo
| | | | - Elena Saccenti
- Sezione di Ematologia e Fisiopatologia dell'Emostasi, Azienda Università Ospedale di Ferrara, Ferrara
| | | | - Marta Lionetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università di Milano and UOC Oncoematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano
| | - Luca Agnelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università di Milano and UOC Oncoematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano
| | - Massimo Gentile
- Dipartimento di Oncoematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Cosenza
| | | | - Sabrina Bossio
- Dipartimento di Oncoematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Cosenza
| | | | - Gianmatteo Rigolin
- Sezione di Ematologia e Fisiopatologia dell'Emostasi, Azienda Università Ospedale di Ferrara, Ferrara
| | - George A Calin
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biotecnologie, Università di Ferrara
| | | | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; and
| | | | | | - Antonino Neri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università di Milano and UOC Oncoematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Moshiri F, Callegari E, D'Abundo L, Corrà F, Lupini L, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. Inhibiting the oncogenic mir-221 by microRNA sponge: toward microRNA-based therapeutics for hepatocellular carcinoma. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench 2014; 7:43-54. [PMID: 25436097 PMCID: PMC4017557] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM We evaluated the capability of "microRNA sponges" in sequestering and inhibiting the over-expressed miR-221 in HCC cell lines. BACKGROUND Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious public health problem, with no effective cure at present. It has been demonstrated that the deregulation of microRNAs expression contributes to tumorigenesis. In HCC, miR-221 was shown to be up-regulated in more than 70% of the cases and was associated with higher tumor stage, metastasis and a shorter time to recurrence after surgery, suggesting an important pathogenic role. A tumor promoting function of miR-221 was proved in a transgenic mouse model, which was predisposed to the development of liver cancers. These findings suggested that miR-221 could represent a potential target for anti-tumor approaches. MATERIAL AND METHODS Novel adeno and adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) were developed: they were genetically modified to drive the expression of multiple binding sites for miR-221, the "miR-221 sponge", which was designed to sequester miR-221 cellular molecules. RESULTS Analysis of viral vectors activity in HCC cells revealed their capability to reduce miR-221 endogenous levels, which was accompanied by the increase in CDKN1B/ p27 protein, a known target of miR-221. An increase in apoptosis was also measured in Hep3B cells after infection with any of the two viral vectors in comparison with control vectors, with stronger effects induced by adenovirus compared to AAV vectors. CONCLUSION The depletion of oncogenic microRNAs represents a potential anti-cancer approach that needs to be tested for safety and efficacy. Here, we describe the development of novel "miR-221 sponge" vectors, which can reduce miR-221 activity in vitro and may be used for in vivo delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Moshiri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Callegari
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucilla D'Abundo
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Corrà
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Lupini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biotecnologie, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fornari F, Milazzo M, Galassi M, Callegari E, Veronese A, Miyaaki H, Sabbioni S, Mantovani V, Marasco E, Chieco P, Negrini M, Bolondi L, Gramantieri L. p53/mdm2 feedback loop sustains miR-221 expression and dictates the response to anticancer treatments in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Cancer Res 2013; 12:203-16. [PMID: 24324033 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-13-0312-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The overexpression of microRNA-221 (miR-221) is reported in several human cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma, and its targeting by tailored treatments has been proposed. The evidence supporting the role of miR-221 in cancer is growing and has been mainly focused on the discovery of miR-221 targets as well as on its possible therapeutic exploitations. However, the mechanism sustaining miR-221 aberrant expression remains to be elucidated. In this study, MDM2 (E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase homolog), a known p53 (TP53) modulator, is identified as a direct target of miR-221, and a feed-forward loop is described that sustains miR-221 aberrant expression. Interestingly, miR-221 can activate the p53/mdm2 axis by inhibiting MDM2 and, in turn, p53 activation contributes to miR-221 enhanced expression. Moreover, by modulating the p53 axis, miR-221 impacts cell-cycle progression and apoptotic response to doxorubicin in hepatocellular carcinoma-derived cell lines. Finally, CpG island methylation status was assessed as a causative event associated with miR-221 upregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and primary tumor specimens. In hepatocellular carcinoma-derived cell lines, pharmacologically induced DNA hypomethylation potentiated a significant increase in miR-221 expression. These data were confirmed in clinical specimens of hepatocellular carcinoma in which elevated miR-221 expression was associated with the simultaneous presence of wild-type p53 and DNA hypomethylation. IMPLICATIONS These findings reveal a novel miR-221-sustained regulatory loop that determines a p53-context-specific response to doxorubicin treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fornari
- St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, via Albertoni, 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Callegari E, Elamin BK, D’Abundo L, Falzoni S, Donvito G, Moshiri F, Milazzo M, Altavilla G, Giacomelli L, Fornari F, Hemminki A, Di Virgilio F, Gramantieri L, Negrini M, Sabbioni S. Anti-tumor activity of a miR-199-dependent oncolytic adenovirus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73964. [PMID: 24069256 PMCID: PMC3771938 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The down-regulation of miR-199 occurs in nearly all primary hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and HCC cell lines in comparison with normal liver. We exploited this miR-199 differential expression to develop a conditionally replication-competent oncolytic adenovirus, Ad-199T, and achieve tumor-specific viral expression and replication. To this aim, we introduced four copies of miR-199 target sites within the 3’ UTR of E1A gene, essential for viral replication. As consequence, E1A expression from Ad-199T virus was tightly regulated both at RNA and protein levels in HCC derived cell lines, and replication controlled by the level of miR-199 expression. Various approaches were used to asses in vivo properties of Ad-199T. Ad-199T replication was inhibited in normal, miR-199 positive, liver parenchyma, thus resulting in reduced hepatotoxicity. Conversely, the intrahepatic delivery of Ad-199T in newborn mice led to virus replication and fast removal of implanted HepG2 liver cancer cells. The ability of Ad-199T to control tumor growth was also shown in a subcutaneous xenograft model in nude mice and in HCCs arising in immune-competent mice. In summary, we developed a novel oncolytic adenovirus, Ad-199T, which could demonstrate a therapeutic potential against liver cancer without causing significant hepatotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bahaeldin K. Elamin
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Lucilla D’Abundo
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simonetta Falzoni
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Donvito
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Farzaneh Moshiri
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maddalena Milazzo
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Altavilla
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico Diagnostiche e Terapie Speciali, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luciano Giacomelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico Diagnostiche e Terapie Speciali, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program & Transplantation Laboratory & Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail: (SS); (MN)
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biotecnologie, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail: (SS); (MN)
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most deadly tumors, and current treatments for the disease are often ineffective. The discovery of the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in hepatocarcinogenesis represents an important area of investigation for the development of their clinical applications. These molecules may act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors by directly or indirectly controlling the expression of key proteins involved in cancer-associated pathways. On the clinical side, because of their tumor-specific expression and stability in tissues and in the circulation, miRNAs have been proposed as novel diagnostic tools for classification and prognostic stratification of HCC. In recent years, the therapeutic potential of miRNAs has been demonstrated in various preclinical studies. Anti-miRNA oligonucleotides and miRNA mimics have been found to have antitumor activity. Moreover, by exploiting tumor-specific expression of miRNA, efforts have been aimed at improving targeting of tumor cells by replicative oncolytic viruses while sparing normal cells. These areas are expected to be explored further in the upcoming years to assess the clinical value of miRNA-based approaches in HCC and cancer in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lupini L, Bassi C, Ferracin M, Bartonicek N, D'Abundo L, Zagatti B, Callegari E, Musa G, Moshiri F, Gramantieri L, Corrales FJ, Enright AJ, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. miR-221 affects multiple cancer pathways by modulating the level of hundreds messenger RNAs. Front Genet 2013; 4:64. [PMID: 23630541 PMCID: PMC3635019 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2013.00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNA miR-221 is frequently over-expressed in a variety of human neoplasms. Aim of this study was to identify new miR-221 gene targets to improve our understanding on the molecular tumor-promoting mechanisms affected by miR-221. Gene expression profiling of miR-221-transfected-SNU-398 cells was analyzed by the Sylamer algorithm to verify the enrichment of miR-221 targets among down-modulated genes. This analysis revealed that enforced expression of miR-221 in SNU-398 cells caused the down-regulation of 602 mRNAs carrying sequences homologous to miR-221 seed sequence within their 3'UTRs. Pathways analysis performed on these genes revealed their prominent involvement in cell proliferation and apoptosis. Activation of E2F, MYC, NFkB, and β-catenin pathways was experimentally proven. Some of the new miR-221 target genes, including RB1, WEE1 (cell cycle inhibitors), APAF1 (pro-apoptotic), ANXA1, CTCF (transcriptional repressor), were individually validated as miR-221 targets in SNU-398, HepG2, and HEK293 cell lines. By identifying a large set of miR-221 gene targets, this study improves our knowledge about miR-221 molecular mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis. The modulation of mRNA level of 602 genes confirms the ability of miR-221 to promote cancer by affecting multiple oncogenic pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lupini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Callegari E, Elamin BK, Giannone F, Milazzo M, Altavilla G, Fornari F, Giacomelli L, D'Abundo L, Ferracin M, Bassi C, Zagatti B, Corrà F, Miotto E, Lupini L, Bolondi L, Gramantieri L, Croce CM, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. Liver tumorigenicity promoted by microRNA-221 in a mouse transgenic model. Hepatology 2012; 56:1025-33. [PMID: 22473819 DOI: 10.1002/hep.25747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED MicroRNA-221 (miR-221) is one of the most frequently and consistently up-regulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in human cancer. It has been hypothesized that miR-221 may act as a tumor promoter. To demonstrate this, we developed a transgenic (TG) mouse model that exhibits an inappropriate overexpression of miR-221 in the liver. Immunoblotting and immunostaining confirmed a concomitant down-regulation of miR-221 target proteins. This TG model is characterized by the emergence of spontaneous nodular liver lesions in approximately 50% of male mice and by a strong acceleration of tumor development in 100% of mice treated with diethylnitrosamine. Similarly to human hepatocellular carcinoma, tumors are characterized by a further increase in miR-221 expression and a concomitant inhibition of its target protein-coding genes (i.e., cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor [Cdkn]1b/p27, Cdkn1c/p57, and B-cell lymphoma 2-modifying factor). To validate the tumor-promoting effect of miR-221, we showed that in vivo delivery of anti-miR-221 oligonucleotides leads to a significant reduction of the number and size of tumor nodules. CONCLUSIONS This study not only establishes that miR-221 can promote liver tumorigenicity, but it also establishes a valuable animal model to perform preclinical investigations for the use of anti-miRNA approaches aimed at liver cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fornari F, Milazzo M, Chieco P, Negrini M, Marasco E, Capranico G, Mantovani V, Marinello J, Sabbioni S, Callegari E, Cescon M, Ravaioli M, Croce CM, Bolondi L, Gramantieri L. In hepatocellular carcinoma miR-519d is up-regulated by p53 and DNA hypomethylation and targets CDKN1A/p21, PTEN, AKT3 and TIMP2. J Pathol 2012; 227:275-85. [PMID: 22262409 DOI: 10.1002/path.3995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
MiR-519d belongs to the chromosome 19 miRNA cluster (C19MC), the largest human miRNA cluster. One of its members, miR-519d, is over-expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and we characterized its contribution to hepatocarcinogenesis. In HCC cells, the over-expression of miR-519d promotes cell proliferation, invasion and impairs apoptosis following anticancer treatments. These functions are, at least in part, exerted through the direct targeting of CDKN1A/p21, PTEN, AKT3 and TIMP2. The mechanisms underlying miR-519d aberrant expression in HCC were assayed by genomic DNA amplification, methylation analysis and ChIP assay. The aberrant hypomethylation of C19MC and TP53 were respectively identified as an epigenetic change allowing the aberrant expression of miR-519d and one of the factors able to activate its transcription. In conclusion, we assessed the oncogenic role of miR-519d in HCC by characterizing its biological functions, including the modulation of response to anticancer treatments and by identifying CDKN1A/p21, PTEN, AKT3 and TIMP2 among its targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fornari
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Elamin BK, Callegari E, Gramantieri L, Sabbioni S, Negrini M. MicroRNA response to environmental mutagens in liver. Mutat Res 2011; 717:67-76. [PMID: 21514310 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2011.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 10/11/2010] [Revised: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
During the recent few years, microRNAs emerged as key molecules in the regulation of mammalian cell functions. It was also shown that their altered expression can promote pathologic conditions, such as cancer and other common diseases. Because environmental exposure to biological, chemical or physical agents may be responsible for human diseases, including cancer, uncovering relationships between exposure to environmental carcinogens and expression of microRNAs may help to disclose early mechanisms of disease and it may potentially lead to the development of useful indicators of toxic exposure or novel biomarkers for carcinogenicity testing. The unique expression profile of microRNAs in different types and at different stages of cancer coupled to their remarkable stability in tissues and in serum/plasma suggests that these little molecules may find application as sensitive biomarkers. This review will concentrate on the alterations in microRNA expression in response to environmental factors in relation to the risk of developing liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bahaeldin K Elamin
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Negrini M, Gramantieri L, Sabbioni S, Croce CM. microRNA involvement in hepatocellular carcinoma. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2011; 11:500-21. [PMID: 21554203 DOI: 10.2174/187152011796011037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 04/23/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in human tumorigenesis has been demonstrated by gene profiling and functional studies. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), consistently deregulated miRNAs were identified. Their aberrant expression revealed relations shared with other types of cancer and others unique to HCC, namely the down-regulation of miR-122. Most importantly, functional and molecular studies uncovered mechanisms that linked deregulated miRNAs to cancer-associated pathways, thereby placing their deregulation in a more rational framework. These results improved our knowledge concerning the molecular basis of HCC and helped to increase our understanding about the great clinical potential behind these small molecules. In fact, a number of studies proved that miRNAs may have clinical relevance as bio-pathologic markers for HCC classification, prognostic stratification, early diagnosis or follow-up of patients. Additionally, the demonstration that miRNAs themselves or anti-miRNA oligonucleotides could be successfully used for in vivo modulation of miRNA actions has shown significant potentials in molecularly targeted therapy. In this context, the liver represents an organ of election to test therapeutic possibilities associated with miRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Negrini
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gramantieri L, Fornari F, Ferracin M, Veronese A, Sabbioni S, Calin GA, Grazi GL, Croce CM, Bolondi L, Negrini M. MicroRNA-221 targets Bmf in hepatocellular carcinoma and correlates with tumor multifocality. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 15:5073-81. [PMID: 19671867 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-09-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [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: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Deregulated cell proliferation and apoptosis play a major role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNAs participate in the modulation of key molecules linked to hepatocarcinogenesis. PURPOSE This study aims to investigate the role of miR-221 in the modulation of Bmf, a proapoptotic BH3-only protein, and to characterize miR-221 contribution to hepatocarcinogenesis through modulation of apoptosis. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Transfection of miR-221 and anti-miR-221 in HCC-derived cell lines and luciferase reporter assay were used to assess Bmf as a target of miR-221. Modulation of miR-221 and Bmf expression contributed to characterize their role in anoikis. Primary HCC tissues were analyzed to assess the clinical relevance of in vitro findings. RESULTS Enforced miR-221 expression caused Bmf down-regulation, whereas anti-miR-221 induced its up-regulation. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed Bmf as a target of miR-221. Following matrix detachment, miR-221 silencing led to increased apoptotic cell death. The analysis of HCC tissues revealed an inverse correlation between miR-221 and Bmf expression and a direct correlation between Bmf and activated caspase-3, as a marker of apoptosis. High miR-221 levels were associated with tumor multifocality and reduced time to recurrence after surgery. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that miR-221, by targeting Bmf, inhibits apoptosis. Moreover, in HCC, miR-221 overexpression is associated with a more aggressive phenotype. These findings, together with the previously reported modulation of CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57, show that miR-221 simultaneously affects multiple pro-oncogenic pathways and suggest miR-221 as a potential target for nonconventional treatment against HCC.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/genetics
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/mortality
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Targeting
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/mortality
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Male
- MicroRNAs/antagonists & inhibitors
- MicroRNAs/physiology
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/genetics
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/mortality
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/pathology
- RNA, Small Interfering/pharmacology
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia e Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fornari F, Gramantieri L, Giovannini C, Veronese A, Ferracin M, Sabbioni S, Calin GA, Grazi GL, Croce CM, Tavolari S, Chieco P, Negrini M, Bolondi L. MiR-122/cyclin G1 interaction modulates p53 activity and affects doxorubicin sensitivity of human hepatocarcinoma cells. Cancer Res 2009; 69:5761-7. [PMID: 19584283 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-4797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The identification of target genes is a key step for assessing the role of aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNA) in human cancer and for the further development of miRNA-based gene therapy. MiR-122 is a liver-specific miRNA accounting for 70% of the total miRNA population. Its down-regulation is a common feature of both human and mouse hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We have previously shown that miR-122 can regulate the expression of cyclin G1, whose high levels have been reported in several human cancers. We evaluated the role of miR-122 and cyclin G1 expression in hepatocarcinogenesis and in response to treatment with doxorubicin and their relevance on survival and time to recurrence (TTR) of HCC patients. We proved that, by modulating cyclin G1, miR-122 influences p53 protein stability and transcriptional activity and reduces invasion capability of HCC-derived cell lines. In addition, in a therapeutic perspective, we assayed the effects of a restored miR-122 expression in triggering doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and we proved that miR-122, as well as cyclin G1 silencing, increases sensitivity to doxorubicin challenge. In patients resected for HCC, lower miR-122 levels were associated with a shorter TTR, whereas higher cyclin G1 expression was related to a lower survival, suggesting that miR-122 might represent an effective molecular target for HCC. Our findings establish a basis toward the development of combined chemo- and miRNA-based therapy for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fornari
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e CRBA, Policlinico S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Fornari F, Gramantieri L, Giovannini C, Veronese A, Ferracin M, Sabbioni S, Calin GA, Grazi GL, Croce CM, Tavolari S, Chieco P, Negrini M, Bolondi L. MiR-122/cyclin G1 interaction modulates p53 activity and affects doxorubicin sensitivity of human hepatocarcinoma cells. Cancer Res 2009. [PMID: 19584283 DOI: 1158/0008-5472.can-08-4797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The identification of target genes is a key step for assessing the role of aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNA) in human cancer and for the further development of miRNA-based gene therapy. MiR-122 is a liver-specific miRNA accounting for 70% of the total miRNA population. Its down-regulation is a common feature of both human and mouse hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We have previously shown that miR-122 can regulate the expression of cyclin G1, whose high levels have been reported in several human cancers. We evaluated the role of miR-122 and cyclin G1 expression in hepatocarcinogenesis and in response to treatment with doxorubicin and their relevance on survival and time to recurrence (TTR) of HCC patients. We proved that, by modulating cyclin G1, miR-122 influences p53 protein stability and transcriptional activity and reduces invasion capability of HCC-derived cell lines. In addition, in a therapeutic perspective, we assayed the effects of a restored miR-122 expression in triggering doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and we proved that miR-122, as well as cyclin G1 silencing, increases sensitivity to doxorubicin challenge. In patients resected for HCC, lower miR-122 levels were associated with a shorter TTR, whereas higher cyclin G1 expression was related to a lower survival, suggesting that miR-122 might represent an effective molecular target for HCC. Our findings establish a basis toward the development of combined chemo- and miRNA-based therapy for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fornari
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e CRBA, Policlinico S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Curative options for HCC are limited and exclusively available for patients carrying an early stage HCC. In advanced stages, traditional chemotherapy proved to be only marginally effective or even toxic. Thus, the identification of new treatment options is needed. New targets for non-conventional treatment will necessarily take advantage of progresses on the molecular pathogenesis of HCC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of tiny RNAs with a fundamental role in the regulation of gene expression. Aberrant expression of several miRNAs was found to be involved in human hepatocarcinogenesis. miRNA expression signatures were correlated with bio-pathological and clinical features of HCC. In some cases, aberrantly expressed miRNAs could be linked to cancer-associated pathways, indicating a direct role in liver tumourigenesis. For example, up-regulation of mir-221 and mir-21 could promote cell cycle progression, reduce cell death and favour angiogenesis and invasion. These findings suggest that miRNAs could become novel molecular targets for HCC treatment. The demonstration of in vivo efficacy and safety of anti-miRNA compounds has opened the way to their use in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pizzimenti S, Ferracin M, Sabbioni S, Toaldo C, Pettazzoni P, Dianzani MU, Negrini M, Barrera G. MicroRNA expression changes during human leukemic HL-60 cell differentiation induced by 4-hydroxynonenal, a product of lipid peroxidation. Free Radic Biol Med 2009; 46:282-8. [PMID: 19022373 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Revised: 10/08/2008] [Accepted: 10/08/2008] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
4-Hydroxynonenal (HNE) is one of several lipid oxidation products that may have an impact on human pathophysiology. It is an important second messenger involved in the regulation of various cellular processes and exhibits antiproliferative and differentiative properties in various tumor cell lines. The mechanisms by which HNE affects cell growth and differentiation are only partially clarified. Because microRNAs (miRNAs) have the ability to regulate several cellular processes, we hypothesized that HNE, in addition to other mechanisms, could affect miRNA expression. Here, we present the results of a genome-wide miRNA expression profiling of HNE-treated HL-60 leukemic cells. Among 470 human miRNAs, 10 were found to be differentially expressed between control and HNE-treated cells (at p<0.05). Six miRNAs were down-regulated (miR-181a*, miR-199b, miR-202, miR-378, miR-454-3p, miR-575) and 4 were up-regulated (miR-125a, miR-339, miR-663, miR-660). Three of these regulated miRNAs (miR-202, miR-339, miR-378) were further assayed and validated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Moreover, consistent with the down-regulation of miR-378, HNE also induced the expression of the SUFU protein, a tumor suppressor recently identified as a target of miR-378. The finding that HNE could regulate the expression of miRNAs and their targets opens new perspectives on the understanding of HNE-controlled pathways. A functional analysis of 191 putative gene targets of miRNAs modulated by HNE is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Pizzimenti
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Oncologia Sperimentale, Sezione di Patologia Generale, Università di Torino, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Fornari F, Gramantieri L, Ferracin M, Veronese A, Sabbioni S, Calin GA, Grazi GL, Giovannini C, Croce CM, Bolondi L, Negrini M. MiR-221 controls CDKN1C/p57 and CDKN1B/p27 expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2008. [PMID: 18521080 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The identification of target mRNAs is a key step for assessing the role of aberrantly expressed microRNAs in human cancer. MiR-221 is upregulated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as in other malignancies. One proven target of miR-221 is CDKN1B/p27, whose downregulation affects HCC prognosis. Here, we proved that the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) CDKN1C/p57 is also a direct target of miR-221. Indeed, downregulation of both CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57 occurs in response to miR-221 transfection into HCC-derived cells and a significant upregulation of both CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57 occurs in response to antimiR-221 transfection. A direct interaction of miR-221 with a target site on the 3' UTR of CDKN1C/p57 mRNA was also demonstrated. By controlling these two CDKIs, upregulation of miR-221 can promote growth of HCC cells by increasing the number of cells in S-phase. To assess the relevance of these studies in primary tumors, matched HCC and cirrhosis samples were assayed for miR-221, for CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57 expression. MiR-221 was upregulated in 71% of HCCs, whereas CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57 proteins were downregulated in 77% of cases. A significant inverse correlation between miR-221 and both CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57 was found in HCCs. In conclusion, we suggest that miR-221 has an oncogenic function in hepatocarcinogenesis by targeting CDKN1B/p27 and CDKN1C/p57, hence promoting proliferation by controlling cell-cycle inhibitors. These findings establish a basis toward the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at blocking miR-221 in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Fornari
- 1Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia e Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata, Università di Bologna, Policlinico S Orsola, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ferracin M, Gafà R, Miotto E, Veronese A, Pultrone C, Sabbioni S, Lanza G, Negrini M. The methylator phenotype in microsatellite stable colorectal cancers is characterized by a distinct gene expression profile. J Pathol 2008; 214:594-602. [PMID: 18241079 DOI: 10.1002/path.2318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) in colorectal tumours can be recognized by an increased frequency of aberrant methylation in a specific set of genomic loci. Because of the strong association of CIMP with high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), the identification of CIMP+ tumours within microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancers may not be straightforward. To overcome this potential limitation, we have built an improved seven-locus set of methylation markers that includes CACNA1G, IGF2, RUNX3, HTR6, RIZ1, MINT31, and MAP1B. This new set of CIMP markers revealed a bimodal distribution of methylation frequencies in a group of 95 MSS colorectal cancers, which allowed a clearer separation between CIMP classes. Correlation of MSS CIMP+ tumours with bio-pathological traits revealed significant associations with location to the proximal colon, mucinous histology, BRAF mutation, and chromosomal stability. A potential trend towards an adverse prognosis of CIMP+ cases was associated with the high frequency of BRAF mutations present within this cohort of tumours. Microarray analysis revealed that CIMP+ tumours are characterized by a unique expression profile, a result that confirms that CIMP+ tumours represent a truly distinct molecular class within MSS colorectal cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Ferracin
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica, Università di Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine University of Ferrara Luigi Borsari 46 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Numerous miRNAs are deregulated in human cancers, and experimental evidence indicates that they can play roles as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Similarly to cancer genes that encode proteins, deregulation of miRNA-encoding genes is associated with genetic or epigenetic alterations, such as deletions, amplifications, point mutations and aberrant DNA methylation. The discovery that miRNAs interact with known oncogenes has established further links with molecular pathways implicated in malignant transformation. Finally, miRNAs can be used as diagnostic markers, and their potential as therapeutic molecules has moved miRNAs from the area of basic research to the field of cancer biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica, Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Numerous miRNAs are deregulated in human cancers, and experimental evidence indicates that they can play roles as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Similarly to cancer genes that encode proteins, deregulation of miRNA-encoding genes is associated with genetic or epigenetic alterations, such as deletions, amplifications, point mutations and aberrant DNA methylation. The discovery that miRNAs interact with known oncogenes has established further links with molecular pathways implicated in malignant transformation. Finally, miRNAs can be used as diagnostic markers, and their potential as therapeutic molecules has moved miRNAs from the area of basic research to the field of cancer biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica, Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Gramantieri L, Ferracin M, Fornari F, Veronese A, Sabbioni S, Liu CG, Calin GA, Giovannini C, Ferrazzi E, Grazi GL, Croce CM, Bolondi L, Negrini M. Cyclin G1 is a target of miR-122a, a microRNA frequently down-regulated in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Res 2007; 67:6092-9. [PMID: 17616664 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-4607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 621] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A genome-wide miRNA microarray was used to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in HCCs arisen on cirrhotic livers. Thirty-five miRNAs were identified. Several of these miRNAs were previously found deregulated in other human cancers, such as members of the let-7 family, mir-221, and mir-145. In addition, the hepato-specific miR-122a was found down-regulated in approximately 70% of HCCs and in all HCC-derived cell lines. Microarray data for let-7a, mir-221, and mir-122a were validated by Northern blot and real-time PCR analysis. Understanding the contribution of deregulated miRNAs to cancer requires the identification of gene targets. Here, we show that miR-122a can modulate cyclin G1 expression in HCC-derived cell lines and an inverse correlation between miR-122a and cyclin G1 expression exists in primary liver carcinomas. These results indicate that cyclin G1 is a target of miR-122a and expand our knowledge of the molecular alterations involved in HCC pathogenesis and of the role of miRNAs in human cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia e Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Martini F, Corallini A, Balatti V, Sabbioni S, Pancaldi C, Tognon M. Simian virus 40 in humans. Infect Agent Cancer 2007; 2:13. [PMID: 17620119 PMCID: PMC1941725 DOI: 10.1186/1750-9378-2-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2006] [Accepted: 07/09/2007] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a monkey virus that was administered to human populations by contaminated vaccines which were produced in SV40 naturally infected monkey cells. Recent molecular biology and epidemiological studies suggest that SV40 may be contagiously transmitted in humans by horizontal infection, independently from the earlier administration of SV40-contaminated vaccines.SV40 footprints in humans have been found associated at high prevalence with specific tumor types such as brain and bone tumors, mesotheliomas and lymphomas and with kidney diseases, and at lower prevalence in blood samples from healthy donors. Contrasting reports appeared in the literature on the circulation of SV40 in humans by contagious transmission and its association, as a possible etiologic cofactor, with specific human tumors. As a consequence of the conflicting results, a considerable debate has developed in the scientific community. In the present review we consider the main results obtained by different groups investigating SV40 sequences in human tumors and in blood specimens, the putative role of SV40 in the onset/progression of specific human tumors, and comment on the hypotheses arising from these data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Martini
- Department of Morphology and Embryology, Section of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, and Center of Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 64/B. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alfredo Corallini
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Veronica Balatti
- Department of Morphology and Embryology, Section of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, and Center of Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 64/B. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cecilia Pancaldi
- Department of Morphology and Embryology, Section of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, and Center of Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 64/B. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Morphology and Embryology, Section of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, and Center of Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 64/B. 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ulazzi L, Sabbioni S, Miotto E, Veronese A, Angusti A, Gafà R, Manfredini S, Farinati F, Sasaki T, Lanza G, Negrini M. Nidogen 1 and 2 gene promoters are aberrantly methylated in human gastrointestinal cancer. Mol Cancer 2007; 6:17. [PMID: 17328794 PMCID: PMC1831485 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-6-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 02/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nidogens are highly conserved proteins of basement membranes. Two nidogen proteins, nidogen 1 and nidogen 2, are known in mammals. Results We show that CpG islands of both NID1 and NID2 genes are aberrantly methylated in human cancer samples and cancer cell lines. For both genes, methylation was correlated with loss of gene transcription in human cell lines. Furthermore, demethylation of the NID1 and NID2 promoters restored gene transcription, demonstrating that methylation was responsible for silencing nidogen genes. In primary tumors, we detected NID1 promoter methylation in 67% of colon cancer samples and in 90% of gastric cancers. NID2 promoter was methylated in 29% of colon and 95% of gastric cancers. Immuno-staining for nidogen-2 confirmed the correlation between aberrant methylation and loss of nidogen expression also in primary tumors, implying that aberrant methylation was a mechanism for inhibiting nidogens expression in human gastrointestinal tumors. Conclusion These results suggest that loss of nidogens expression has a potential pathogenetic role in colon and stomach tumorigenesis. Nidogens are believed to connect laminin and collagen IV networks, hence stabilizing the basement membrane structure. Nidogens are also important for cell adhesion, as they establish contacts with various cellular integrins. Loss of nidogen expression may favor invasion and metastasis of cancer cells by loosening cell interaction with basal membrane and by weakening the strength of the basement membrane itself, first barrier from the connective vascularized matrix.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Ulazzi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Miotto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelo Veronese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angela Angusti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università di Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Farinati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche e Gastroenterologia, Università di Padova, Italy
| | - Takako Sasaki
- Max-Planck-Institute for Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Giovanni Lanza
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Sabbioni S, Callegari E, Spizzo R, Veronese A, Altavilla G, Corallini A, Negrini M. Anticancer activity of an adenoviral vector expressing short hairpin RNA against BK virus T-ag. Cancer Gene Ther 2007; 14:297-305. [PMID: 17218949 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7701014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The human polyomavirus BK (BKV) is oncogenic in rodents and induces malignant transformation of rodent cells in vitro. Although its role in human tumorigenesis is still debated, BKV represents an excellent model to evaluate molecularly targeted antineoplastic approaches. Here, we have tested whether stable suppression of the T antigen (T-ag) oncogene expression could inhibit the in vitro and in vivo malignant phenotype of BKV-transformed mouse cells. An adenovirus vector system that expresses small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), which are converted into active small interfering RNAs (siRNA) molecules against the BKV T-ag, was developed. This vector was able to inhibit the expression of BKV T-ag through a highly efficient in vitro and in vivo delivery of the siRNA molecule. In addition, it allowed a stable expression of siRNA for a period of time sufficient to elicit a biological effect. Inhibition of T-ag expression results in reduction of the in vitro growth rate of BKV-transformed cells, which is, at least in part, caused by restoration of p53 activity and induction of apoptosis. In vivo studies proved that adenovirus vectors expressing anti-T-ag siRNA were able to suppress tumorigenicity of BKV-transformed cells. Moreover, adenovirus vector direct treatment of growing tumors resulted in a significant reduction of tumor growth. This study indicates that siRNAs delivery via a viral vector have a potential usefulness as in vivo anticancer tool against viral and cellular oncogenes.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adenoviridae/genetics
- Animals
- Antigens, Polyomavirus Transforming/chemistry
- Antigens, Polyomavirus Transforming/genetics
- Antigens, Polyomavirus Transforming/metabolism
- Antigens, Viral, Tumor/genetics
- BK Virus/immunology
- Cell Transformation, Viral/genetics
- Genetic Therapy
- Genetic Vectors
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Neoplasms, Experimental/genetics
- Neoplasms, Experimental/therapy
- Neoplasms, Experimental/virology
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- Survival Rate
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e diagnostica e Centro Interdipartimentale per la Ricerca sul Cancro, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sabbioni S, Callegari E, Manservigi M, Argnani R, Corallini A, Negrini M, Manservigi R. Use of herpes simplex virus type 1-based amplicon vector for delivery of small interfering RNA. Gene Ther 2006; 14:459-64. [PMID: 17051250 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Silencing of gene expression by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) is rapidly becoming a powerful tool for genetic analysis of mammalian cells. The use of DNA-based plasmid vectors to achieve transient and stable expression of siRNA has been developed to avoid the problems of double-stranded oligonucleotides transfection. These vectors direct the transcription of small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) from a polymerase-III (H1 or U6)-RNA gene promoter. However, numerous disadvantages remain, including low transfection efficiency and difficulty in transfecting primary cells. To overcome some of these problems, the use of viral vectors for siRNA delivery has been described. Retroviral, adenoviral, adeno-associated and herpes viral shRNAs delivery systems have been successfully used to silence genes, in vitro and in vivo. The use of a herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-based amplicon vector for siRNA delivery into mammalian cells, using human polyomavirus BK (BKV)-transformed cells as a model system is described. The results demonstrate the ability of amplicon vectors to inhibit the expression of BKV T-Ag and tumorigenicity of BKV-transformed cells. We show that the use of the amplicon vector is highly efficient for the delivery of siRNA molecules. The unique ability of these vectors to deliver multiple copies of siRNA may provide a useful tool in the development of novel anticancer therapy.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Viral, Tumor/genetics
- BK Virus/immunology
- Cell Line, Transformed
- Genetic Engineering
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genetic Vectors/administration & dosage
- Genetic Vectors/genetics
- Herpesvirus 1, Human/genetics
- Herpesvirus 1, Human/physiology
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Microscopy, Fluorescence
- Neoplasms/therapy
- RNA Interference
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Transduction, Genetic/methods
- Virus Replication
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Sabbioni
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Barbanti-Brodano G, Sabbioni S, Martini F, Negrini M, Corallini A, Tognon M. BK virus, JC virus and Simian Virus 40 infection in humans, and association with human tumors. Adv Exp Med Biol 2006; 577:319-41. [PMID: 16626046 DOI: 10.1007/0-387-32957-9_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
49
|
Iorio MV, Ferracin M, Liu CG, Veronese A, Spizzo R, Sabbioni S, Magri E, Pedriali M, Fabbri M, Campiglio M, Ménard S, Palazzo JP, Rosenberg A, Musiani P, Volinia S, Nenci I, Calin GA, Querzoli P, Negrini M, Croce CM. MicroRNA gene expression deregulation in human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2005; 65:7065-70. [PMID: 16103053 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-05-1783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2990] [Impact Index Per Article: 157.4] [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: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs that control gene expression by targeting mRNAs and triggering either translation repression or RNA degradation. Their aberrant expression may be involved in human diseases, including cancer. Indeed, miRNA aberrant expression has been previously found in human chronic lymphocytic leukemias, where miRNA signatures were associated with specific clinicobiological features. Here, we show that, compared with normal breast tissue, miRNAs are also aberrantly expressed in human breast cancer. The overall miRNA expression could clearly separate normal versus cancer tissues, with the most significantly deregulated miRNAs being mir-125b, mir-145, mir-21, and mir-155. Results were confirmed by microarray and Northern blot analyses. We could identify miRNAs whose expression was correlated with specific breast cancer biopathologic features, such as estrogen and progesterone receptor expression, tumor stage, vascular invasion, or proliferation index.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marilena V Iorio
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Miotto E, Sabbioni S, Veronese A, Calin GA, Gullini S, Liboni A, Gramantieri L, Bolondi L, Ferrazzi E, Gafà R, Lanza G, Negrini M. Frequent Aberrant Methylation of the CDH4 Gene Promoter in Human Colorectal and Gastric Cancer. Cancer Res 2004; 64:8156-9. [PMID: 15548679 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-04-3000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [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: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Gene promoter methylation causes loss of tumor suppressor genes function in human cancer. Here, we show that the CDH4 gene, a member of the cadherin family encoding for R-cadherin, contains a CpG island located at the 5' of the first exon, which functions as a promoter element and is frequently affected by methylation in human cancer. By using methylation-specific PCR and reverse transcription-PCR in human cancer cell lines, promoter methylation could be directly linked to loss of gene expression. After treatment with the demethylating agent 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine, expression could be restored. Analysis of human primary tumors revealed that the CDH4 gene is methylated in 78% (38 of 49) of colorectal and 95% (20 of 21) of gastric carcinomas. CDH4 methylation was not detected in nonneoplastic colonic (0 of 10) and stomach (0 of 10) tissues or in peripheral blood (0 of 17). CDH4 methylation was detected in histologically normal tissues located in proximity of the neoplasms, indicating that CDH4 methylation is an early event in gastrointestinal tumor progression. We also proved that CDH4 methylation can be revealed in the peripheral blood of cancer patients. Our results indicate that CDH4 may act as a tumor suppressor gene in human gastrointestinal tumors and can potentially be used as an early diagnostic marker for gastrointestinal tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Miotto
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|