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Liang R, Weigand I, Lippert J, Kircher S, Altieri B, Steinhauer S, Hantel C, Rost S, Rosenwald A, Kroiss M, Fassnacht M, Sbiera S, Ronchi CL. Targeted Gene Expression Profile Reveals CDK4 as Therapeutic Target for Selected Patients With Adrenocortical Carcinoma. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:219. [PMID: 32373071 PMCID: PMC7176906 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are aggressive tumors with a heterogeneous prognosis and limited therapeutic options for advanced stages. This study aims to identify novel drug targets for a personalized treatment in ACC. RNA was isolated from 40 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded ACC samples. We evaluated gene expression of 84 known cancer drug targets by reverse transcriptase quantitative real time-PCR and calculated fold change using 5 normal adrenal glands as reference (overexpression by fold change >2.0). The most promising candidate cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) was investigated at protein level in 104 ACC samples and tested by in vitro experiments in two ACC cell lines (NCI-H295R and MUC1). The most frequently overexpressed genes were TOP2A (100% of cases, median fold change = 16.5), IGF2 (95%, fold change = 52.9), CDK1 (80%, fold change = 6.7), CDK4 (62%, fold change = 2.6), PLK4 (60%, fold change = 2.8), and PLK1 (52%, fold change = 2.3). CDK4 was chosen for functional validation, as it is actionable by approved CDK4/6-inhibitors (e.g., palbociclib). Nuclear immunostaining of CDK4 significantly correlated with mRNA expression (R = 0.52, P < 0.005). We exposed both NCI-H295R and MUC1 cell lines to palbociclib and found a concentration- and time-dependent reduction of cell viability, which was more pronounced in the NCI-H295R cells in line with higher CDK4 expression. Furthermore, we tested palbociclib in combination with insulin-like growth factor 1/insulin receptor inhibitor linsitinib showing an additive effect. In conclusion, we demonstrate that RNA profiling is useful to discover potential drug targets and that CDK4/6 inhibitors are promising candidates for treatment of selected patients with ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimunde Liang
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Isabel Weigand
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Juliane Lippert
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kircher
- Institute of Pathology, University of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sonja Steinhauer
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Constanze Hantel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Simone Rost
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Rosenwald
- Institute of Pathology, University of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kroiss
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Fassnacht
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Silviu Sbiera
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cristina L. Ronchi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Institute of Metabolism and System Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Cristina L. Ronchi ;
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Yang Y, Xiao M, Song Y, Tang Y, Luo T, Yang S, He W, Cheng Q, Ma L, Zhang Y, He Y, Cao Y, Yang J, Peng B, Hu J, Li Q. H-score of 11β-hydroxylase and aldosterone synthase in the histopathological diagnosis of adrenocortical tumors. Endocrine 2019; 65:683-691. [PMID: 31332713 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-02022-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the diagnostic performance of the H-score of 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1) and aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) in the histopathological diagnosis of adrenocortical tumors (ACT). METHODS We retrospectively evaluated 199 cases of ACT, of which 85 were diagnosed as aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA), 66 as cortisol-producing adenoma (CPA), 9 as aldosterone-cortisol co-secreting adenoma, 30 as nonhyperfunctioning adenoma, and 9 as adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). Immunohistochemical staining was performed using anti-CYP11B1 and anti-CYP11B2 monoclonal antibodies. The staining was quantified by the McCarty's H-score system. The diagnostic performance was assessed by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). RESULTS The H-score of CYP11B1 is highest in the CPA group and lowest in the ACC group. The H-score of CYP11B2 in the APA group is significantly higher than other ACT groups. The area under ROC (AUC) of an increased H-score of CYP11B2 (>65) for the diagnosis of APA was 0.971 (95%CI 0.937-0.990). The AUC of an increased H-score of CYP11B1 (>204) for the diagnosis of CPA was 0.725 (95%CI 0.658-0.786). The AUC of a decreased H-score of CYP11B1 (<85) for the diagnosis of ACC was 0.960 (95%CI 0.923-0.983). CONCLUSIONS H-score of CYP11B1 and CYP11B2 are reliable tools for the histopathological subtyping of functional benign ACT and may offer some value in the histopathological diagnosis of malignant ACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Xiao
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Song
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shumin Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenwen He
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingfeng Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linqiang Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunfeng He
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Youde Cao
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Cardiovascular Endocrinology Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic, Australia
| | - Bin Peng
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinbo Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Qifu Li
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Arshad U, Taubert M, Kurlbaum M, Frechen S, Herterich S, Megerle F, Hamacher S, Fassnacht M, Fuhr U, Kroiss M. Enzyme autoinduction by mitotane supported by population pharmacokinetic modelling in a large cohort of adrenocortical carcinoma patients. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 179:287-297. [PMID: 30087117 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mitotane is used for the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma. High oral daily doses of typically 1- 6 g are required to attain therapeutic concentrations. The drug has a narrow therapeutic index and patient management is difficult because of a high volume of distribution, very long elimination half-life, and drug interaction through induction of metabolizing enzymes. The present evaluation aimed at the development of a population pharmacokinetic model of mitotane to facilitate therapeutic drug monitoring. METHODS Appropriate dosing information, plasma concentrations (1137 data points) and covariates were available from therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of 76 adrenocortical carcinoma patients treated with mitotane. Using nonlinear mixed effects modeling, a simple structural model was first developed, with subsequent introduction of metabolic autoinduction. Covariate data were analyzed to improve overall model predictability. Simulations were performed to assess the attainment of therapeutic concentrations with clinical dosing schedules. RESULTS A one-compartment pharmacokinetic model with first order absorption was found suitable to describe the data, with an estimated central volume of distribution of 6086 L related to a high interindividual variability of 81.5%. Increase in clearance of mitotane during treatment could be modeled by a linear enzyme autoinduction process. Body mass index was found to have an influence upon disposition kinetics of mitotane. Model simulations favor a high dose regimen to rapidly attain therapeutic concentrations, with the first TDM suggested on day 16 of treatment to avoid systemic toxicity. CONCLUSION The proposed model describes mitotane pharmacokinetics and can be used to facilitate therapy by predicting plasma concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Arshad
- Department I of Pharmacology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - M Taubert
- Department I of Pharmacology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - M Kurlbaum
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - S Frechen
- Department I of Pharmacology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - S Herterich
- Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - F Megerle
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - S Hamacher
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - M Fassnacht
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - U Fuhr
- Department I of Pharmacology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - M Kroiss
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Nolé P, Duijndam B, Stenman A, Juhlin CC, Kozyra M, Larsson C, Ingelman-Sundberg M, Johansson I. Human Cytochrome P450 2W1 Is Not Expressed in Adrenal Cortex and Is Only Rarely Expressed in Adrenocortical Carcinomas. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162379. [PMID: 27598485 PMCID: PMC5012573 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162379] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytochome P450 2W1 (CYP2W1) enzyme is expressed in fetal colon and in colon tumors. The level of expression is higher in colon metastases than in the parent tumors and the enzyme is a possible drug target for treatment of colorectal cancer, as demonstrated in mouse xenograft studies. A previous study published in this journal reported that CYP2W1 is highly expressed in normal and transformed adrenal tissue. However, adrenal expression of CYP2W1 protein was not seen in previous studies in our research group. To clarify this inconsistency, we have used qRT-PCR and Western blotting with CYP2W1-specific antibodies to probe a panel of 27 adrenocortical carcinomas and 35 normal adrenal cortex samples. CYP2W1 mRNA expression is seen in all samples. However, significant CYP2W1 protein expression was found in only one tumor sample (a testosterone-producing adrenocortical carcinoma) and not in any normal tissue. Differences in the specificity of the CYP2W1 antibodies used in the two studies may explain the apparent discrepancy. We conclude that normal adrenal tissue lacks P450 2W1 enzyme expression; also, adrenocortical carcinomas generally do not express the enzyme. This information thus underline the colon cancer specificity of CYP2W1 enzyme expression and has implications for the development of anti-colon cancer therapies based on CYP2W1 as a drug target, since 2W1-dependent bioactivation of prodrugs for CYP2W1 will not take place in normal adrenal tissue or other non-transformed tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Nolé
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Britt Duijndam
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adam Stenman
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, and Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C. Christofer Juhlin
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, and Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Kozyra
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catharina Larsson
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, and Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Inger Johansson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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Carré J, Grunenwald S, Vezzosi D, Mazerolles C, Bennet A, Meduri G, Caron P. Virilizing oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma: clinical and immunohistochemical studies. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:662-666. [PMID: 26954035 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2016.1149811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Oncocytic tumors of the adrenal cortex are rare, mostly nonfunctioning and benign. SETTING Report virilizing oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma in a 50-year-old woman. PATIENT She presented a recent and progressive virilization syndrome, associated with high blood pressure. Hormonal evaluation showed elevated serum testosterone and delta-4-androstenedione levels, normal urinary free cortisol level and incomplete suppression of cortisol at the 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test. CT scan of the abdomen revealed a 35 mm left adrenal mass. INTERVENTION The patient underwent a left adrenalectomy, and the histological study showed a 3 cm oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma with signs of malignancy. RESULTS Immunohistochemical study revealed that tumor cells expressed the steroidogenic enzymes involved into androgen synthesis (3βHSD and P450c17α), P450 aromatase and luteinizing hormone (LH) receptors. Post-operatively, signs of virilization improved rapidly, serum testosterone and delta-4-androstenedione levels returned to normal, as did the dexamethasone suppression test. During follow-up CT-scan and 18-FDG PET/CT showed a right ovary mass, corresponding to a follicular cyst associated with hyperthecosis. The patient is alive with no recurrence 48 months after adrenal surgery. CONCLUSION Oncocytic adrenocortical carcinomas, although extremely rare, should be considered in women with a virilization syndrome. In this woman immunohistochimical studies revealed the presence of steroidogenic enzymes involved into androgen synthesis and aromatization, and LH receptors could be implicated in this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Carré
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases , Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire Et Métabolique, CHU Larrey , Toulouse , France
| | - Solange Grunenwald
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases , Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire Et Métabolique, CHU Larrey , Toulouse , France
| | - Delphine Vezzosi
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases , Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire Et Métabolique, CHU Larrey , Toulouse , France
| | | | - Antoine Bennet
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases , Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire Et Métabolique, CHU Larrey , Toulouse , France
| | | | - Philippe Caron
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases , Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire Et Métabolique, CHU Larrey , Toulouse , France
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Ronchi CL, Sbiera S, Volante M, Steinhauer S, Scott-Wild V, Altieri B, Kroiss M, Bala M, Papotti M, Deutschbein T, Terzolo M, Fassnacht M, Allolio B. CYP2W1 is highly expressed in adrenal glands and is positively associated with the response to mitotane in adrenocortical carcinoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105855. [PMID: 25144458 PMCID: PMC4140842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adrenocortical tumors comprise frequent adenomas (ACA) and rare carcinomas (ACC). Human cytochrome P450 2W1 (CYP2W1) is highly expressed in some cancers holding the potential to activate certain drugs into tumor cytotoxins. Objective To investigate the CYP2W1 expression in adrenal samples and its relationship with clinical outcome in ACC. Material and Methods CYP2W1 expression was investigated by qRT-PCR in 13 normal adrenal glands, 32 ACA, 25 ACC, and 9 different non-adrenal normal tissue samples and by immunohistochemistry in 352 specimens (23 normal adrenal glands, 33 ACA, 239 ACC, 67 non-adrenal normal or neoplastic samples). Results CYP2W1 mRNA expression was absent/low in normal non-adrenal tissues, but high in normal and neoplastic adrenal glands (all P<0.01 vs non-adrenal normal tissues). Accordingly, CYP2W1 immunoreactivity was absent/low (H-score 0–1) in 72% of non-adrenal normal tissues, but high (H-score 2–3) in 44% of non-adrenal cancers, in 65% of normal adrenal glands, in 62% of ACAs and in 50% of ACCs (all P<0.001 vs non-adrenal normal tissues), being significantly increased in steroid-secreting compared to non-secreting tumors. In ACC patients treated with mitotane only, high CYP2W1 immunoreactivity adjusted for ENSAT stage was associated with longer overall survival and time to progression (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively), and with a better response to therapy both as palliative (response/stable disease in 42% vs 6%, P<0.01) or adjuvant option (absence of disease recurrence in 69% vs 45%, P<0.01). Conclusion CYP2W1 is highly expressed in both normal and neoplastic adrenal glands making it a promising tool for targeted therapy in ACC. Furthermore, CYP2W1 may represent a new predictive marker for the response to mitotane treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina L. Ronchi
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Silviu Sbiera
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Marco Volante
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, San Luigi Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Sonja Steinhauer
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | | | - Barbara Altieri
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kroiss
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Margarita Bala
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Mauro Papotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, San Luigi Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Timo Deutschbein
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Massimo Terzolo
- Division of Internal Medicine I, University of Turin, San Luigi Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Martin Fassnacht
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Bruno Allolio
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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Kroiss M, Quinkler M, Lutz WK, Allolio B, Fassnacht M. Drug interactions with mitotane by induction of CYP3A4 metabolism in the clinical management of adrenocortical carcinoma. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2011; 75:585-91. [PMID: 21883349 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2011.04214.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mitotane [1-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2-dichloroethane, (o,p'-DDD)] is the only drug approved for the treatment for adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) and has also been used for various forms of glucocorticoid excess. Through still largely unknown mechanisms, mitotane inhibits adrenal steroid synthesis and adrenocortical cell proliferation. Mitotane increases hepatic metabolism of cortisol, and an increased replacement dose of glucocorticoids is standard of care during mitotane treatment. Recently, sunitinib, a multityrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), has been found to be rapidly metabolized by CYP3A4 during mitotane treatment, indicating clinically relevant drug interactions with mitotane. We here summarize the current evidence concerning mitotane-induced changes in hepatic monooxygenase expression, list drugs potentially affected by mitotane-related CYP3A4 induction and suggest alternatives. For example, using standard doses of macrolide antibiotics is unlikely to reach sufficient plasma levels, making fluoroquinolones in many cases a superior choice. Similarly, statins such as simvastatin are metabolized by CYP3A4, whereas others like pravastatin are not. Importantly, in the past, several clinical trials using cytotoxic drugs but also targeted therapies in ACC yielded disappointing results. This lack of antineoplastic activity may be explained in part by insufficient drug exposure owing to enhanced drug metabolism induced by mitotane. Thus, induction of CYP3A4 by mitotane needs to be considered in the design of future clinical trials in ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Kroiss
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Würzburg, and University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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Higley EB, Newsted JL, Zhang X, Giesy JP, Hecker M. Assessment of chemical effects on aromatase activity using the H295R cell line. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2010; 17:1137-48. [PMID: 20087668 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-009-0285-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND, AIM, AND SCOPE In response to concerns about chemical substances that can alter the function of endocrine systems and may result in adverse effects on human and ecosystem health, a number of in vitro tests have been developed to identify and assess the endocrine disrupting potential of chemicals and environmental samples. One endpoint that is frequently used in in vitro models for the assessment of chemical effects on the endocrine system is the alteration of aromatase activity (AA). Aromatase is the enzyme responsible for converting androgens to estrogens. Some commonly used aromatase assays, including the human microsomal assay that is a mandatory test in US-EPA's endocrine disruptor screening program (EDSP), detect only direct effects of chemicals on aromatase activity and not indirect effects, including changes in gene expression or transcription factors. This can be a problem for chemical screening initiatives such as the EDSP because chemicals can affect aromatase both indirectly and directly. Here we compare direct, indirect, and combined measurements of AA using the H295R cell line after exposure to seven model chemicals. Furthermore, we compare the predictability of the different types of AA measurements for 17beta-estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) production in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS H295R cells were exposed to forskolin, atrazine, letrozole, prochloraz, ketoconazole, aminoglutethimide, and prometon for 48 h. Direct, indirect, and combined effects on aromatase activity were measured using a tritiated water-release assay. Direct effects on aromatase activity were assessed by exposing cells only during the conduct of the tritium-release assay. Indirect effects were measured after exposing cells for 48 h to test chemicals, and then measuring AA without further chemical addition. Combined AA was measured by exposing cells prior and during the conduction of the tritium-release assay. Estradiol and testosterone were measured by ELISA. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Exposure to the aromatase inhibitors letrozole, prochloraz, ketoconazole, and aminoglutethimide resulted in greater indirect aromatase activity after a 48-h exposure due to presumed compensatory mechanisms involved in aromatase activity regulation. Forskolin and atrazine caused similar changes in hormone production and enzyme profiles, and both chemicals resulted in a dose-dependent increase in E2, T, and indirect AA. Neither of these two chemicals directly affected AA. For most of the chemicals, direct and combined AA and E2 were good predictors of the mechanism of action of the chemical, with regard to AA. Indirect aromatase activity was a less precise predictor of effects at the hormone level because of presumed feedback loops that made it difficult to predict the chemicals' true effects, mostly seen with the aromatase inhibitors. Further, it was found that direct and indirect AA measurements were not reliable predictors of effects on E2 for general inducers and inhibitors, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Differential modulation of AA and hormone production was observed in H295R cells after exposure to seven model chemicals, illustrating the importance of measuring multiple endpoints when describing mechanisms of action in vitro. RECOMMENDATIONS AND PERSPECTIVES For future work with the H295R, it is recommended that a combination of direct and indirect aromatase measurements is used because it was best in predicting the effects of a chemical on E2 production and its mechanism of action. Further, it was shown that direct AA measurements, which are a common way to measure AA, must be used with caution in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric B Higley
- Toxicology Centre and Department Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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Hahner S, Stuermer A, Kreissl M, Reiners C, Fassnacht M, Haenscheid H, Beuschlein F, Zink M, Lang K, Allolio B, Schirbel A. [123 I]Iodometomidate for molecular imaging of adrenocortical cytochrome P450 family 11B enzymes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:2358-65. [PMID: 18397978 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to advances in conventional imaging, adrenal tumors are detected with increasing frequency. However, conventional imaging provides only limited information on the origin of these lesions, which represent a wide range of different pathological entities. New specific imaging methods would therefore be of great clinical value. We, therefore, studied the potential of iodometomidate (IMTO) as tracer for molecular imaging of cytochrome P450 family 11B (Cyp11B) enzymes. METHODS Inhibition of Cyp11B1 and Cyp11B2 by IMTO, etomidate, metomidate, and fluoroetomidate was investigated in NCI-h295 cells and in Y1 cells stably expressing hsCyp11B1 or hsCyp11B2. Pharmacokinetics and biodistribution after iv injection of [(123/125)I]IMTO were analyzed in mice in biodistribution experiments and by small-animal single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Furthermore, four patients with known adrenal tumors (two metastatic adrenal adenocarcinomas, one bilateral adrenocortical adenoma, and one melanoma metastasis) were investigated with [(123)I]iodometomidate-SPECT. RESULTS In cell culture experiments, all compounds potently inhibited both Cyp11B1 and Cyp11B2. Adrenals showed high and specific uptake of [(123/125)I]IMTO and were excellently visualized in mice. In patients, adrenocortical tissue showed high and specific tracer uptake in both primary tumor and metastases with short investigation time and low radiation exposure, whereas the non-adrenocortical tumor did not exhibit any tracer uptake. CONCLUSION We have successfully completed the development of an in vivo detection system of adrenal Cyp11B enzymes by [(123)I]IMTO scintigraphy in both experimental animals and humans. Our findings suggest that [(123)I]IMTO is a highly specific radiotracer for imaging of adrenocortical tissue. Due to the general availability of SPECT technology, we anticipate that [(123)I]IMTO scintigraphy may become a widely used tool to characterize adrenal lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hahner
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, Wuerzburg, Germany
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Lichtenauer UD, Shapiro I, Geiger K, Quinkler M, Fassnacht M, Nitschke R, Rückauer KD, Beuschlein F. Side population does not define stem cell-like cancer cells in the adrenocortical carcinoma cell line NCI h295R. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1314-22. [PMID: 18063677 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests the existence of a stem cell-like subpopulation of cells in hematological and solid tumor entities, which determine the malignant phenotype of a given tumor through their proliferative potential and chemotherapy resistance. A recently used technique for the isolation of this cell population is through exclusion of the vital dye Hoechst 33342, which defines the so-called side population (SP). Herein we demonstrate the presence of SP cells in a variety of adrenal specimens, including primary cultures of human adrenocortical tumors and normal adrenal glands as well as established human and murine adrenocortical cancer cell lines by fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis and confocal microscopy. On a functional level, SP cells from the human adrenocortical tumor cell line NCI h295R revealed an expression pattern consistent with a less differentiated phenotype, including lower expression of steroidogenic enzymes such as steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR) and side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) in comparison with non-SP cells. However, proliferation between SP and non-SP cells did not differ (105.6 +/- 18.1 vs. 100.0 +/- 3.5%). Furthermore, re-sorting and tracing experiments revealed the capacity for both cell types to give rise to the original SP- and non-SP-containing cell population. Similarly to the baseline growth kinetics, no survival benefit was evident in SP cells after treatment with cytotoxic agents commonly used in adrenocortical carcinomas. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that Hoechst dye exclusion, in contrast to what has been reported for other tumor entities, is not a major tumor stem cell defining marker in adrenocortical NCI h295R tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs D Lichtenauer
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Centre for Systems Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, D-79085 Freiburg, Germany
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Volante M, Sperone P, Bollito E, Frangipane E, Rosas R, Daffara F, Terzolo M, Berruti A, Papotti M. Matrix metalloproteinase type 2 expression in malignant adrenocortical tumors: Diagnostic and prognostic significance in a series of 50 adrenocortical carcinomas. Mod Pathol 2006; 19:1563-9. [PMID: 16980949 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.3800683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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 differential diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma from adrenocortical adenoma is based on different pathological parameters, usually incorporated in scoring systems, which unfortunately lack a 100% sensitivity and specificity. Little is known on the molecular mechanisms leading to the malignant phenotype in adrenocortical tumors. Among other molecules, metalloproteinases were demonstrated to be implicated in malignant progression and metastatization of solid tumors, including endocrine ones. Therefore, we aimed to investigate metalloproteinases and their inhibitors expression in a series of 50 adrenocortical carcinomas and 50 control adrenocortical adenomas, diagnosed according to the Weiss histological criteria. Immunohistochemical results were scored by semiquantitative analysis and compared with clinicopathological parameters and outcome. Metalloproteinase type 2 gave the most significant result, being detected in neoplastic cells in 1/50 adrenocortical adenomas (2%) and 37/50 adrenocortical carcinomas (74%) (P < 0.001), with a focal (score 1, <20% of positive cells--two-thirds of cases) or diffuse (score 2, >20% of positive cells--one-third of cases) pattern. In addition, diffuse (score 2) metalloproteinase type 2 protein expression, as compared to focal or negative immunostaining, correlated with shorter survival (P < 0.02) and disease-free interval (P = 0.05). No correlation was found comparing metalloproteinase type 2 expression and any clinicopathological parameter. Our data indicate that metalloproteinase type 2 immunohistochemical localization in tumor cells is significantly restricted to malignant adrenocortical tumors, with high specificity but low sensitivity. In addition, a strong metalloproteinase type 2 expression in adrenocortical carcinoma was for the first time recognized as an unfavorable prognostic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Volante
- Division of Pathology, Department of Clinical & Biological Sciences, University of Turin and San Luigi Hospital, Orbassano, Torino, Italy.
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12
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Cantón RF, Sanderson JT, Nijmeijer S, Bergman A, Letcher RJ, van den Berg M. In vitro effects of brominated flame retardants and metabolites on CYP17 catalytic activity: A novel mechanism of action? Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2006; 216:274-81. [PMID: 16828825 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2006.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2006] [Revised: 05/11/2006] [Accepted: 05/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fire incidents have decreased significantly over the last 20 years due, in part, to regulations requiring addition of flame retardants (FRs) to consumer products. Five major classes of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are hexabromocyclododecane isomers (HBCDs), tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBPA) and three commercial mixtures of penta-, octa- and deca-polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners, which are used extensively as commercial FR additives. Furthermore, concentrations of PBDEs have been rapidly increasing during the 1999s in human breast milk and a number of endocrine effects have been reported. We used the H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cell line to assess possible effects of some of these BFRs (PBDEs and several of their hydroxylated (OH) and methoxylated (CH(3)O) metabolites or analogues), TBBPA and brominated phenols (BPs) on the combined 17alpha-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase activities of CYP17. CYP17 enzyme catalyzes an important step in sex steroidogenesis and is responsible for the biosynthesis of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione in the adrenals. In order to study possible interactions with BFRs, a novel enzymatic method was developed. The precursor substrate of CYP17, pregnenolone, was added to control and exposed H295R cells, and enzymatic production of DHEA was measured using a radioimmunoassay. In order to avoid pregnenolone metabolism via different pathways, specific chemical inhibitor compounds were used. None of the parent/precursor BFRs had a significant effect (P < 0.05) on CYP17 activity except for BDE-183, which showed significant inhibition of CYP17 activity at the highest concentration tested (10 muM), with no signs of cytotoxicity as measured by mitochondrial toxicity tests (MTT). A strong inhibition of CYP17 activity was found for 6-OH-2,2',4,4'-tetrabromoDE (6-OH-BDE47) with a concentration-dependent decrease of almost 90% at 10 muM, but with a concurrent decrease in cell viability at the higher concentrations. Replacement of the 6-OH group by a 6-CH(3)O group eliminated this cytotoxic effect, but CYP17 activity measured as DHEA production was still significantly inhibited. Other OH- or CH(3)O-PBDE analogues were used to elucidate possible structural properties behind this CYP17 inhibition and associated cytotoxicity, but no distinct structure activity relationship could be determined. These in vitro results indicate that OH and CH(3)O-PBDEs have potential to interfere with CYP17 activity for which the in vivo relevance still has to be adequately determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío F Cantón
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 2, 3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Letcher RJ, Sanderson JT, Bokkers A, Giesy JP, van den Berg M. Effects of bisphenol A-related diphenylalkanes on vitellogenin production in male carp (Cyprinus carpio) hepatocytes and aromatase (CYP19) activity in human H295r adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2005; 209:95-104. [PMID: 15907334 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2005.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2005] [Revised: 03/23/2005] [Accepted: 03/25/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of the known xenoestrogen bisphenol A (BPA) relative to eight BPA-related diphenylalkanes on estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated vitellogenin (vtg) production in hepatocytes from male carp (Cyprinus carpio), and on aromatase (CYP19) activity in the human adrenocortical H295R carcinoma cell line. Of the eight diphenylalkanes, only 4,4'-(hexafluoropropylidene)diphenol (BHF) and 2,2'-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)propane (BPRO) induced vtg, i.e., to a maximum of 3% to 4% (at 100 microM) compared with 8% for BPA relative to the maximum induction by 17beta-estradiol (E2, 1 microM). Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) was a potent antagonist of vtg production with an IC50 of 5.5 microM, virtually 100% inhibition of vtg at 20 microM, and an inhibitive (IC50) potency about one-tenth that of the known ER antagonist tamoxifen (IC50, 0.6 microM). 2,2'-Diallyl bisphenol A, 4,4'-(1,4-phenylene-diisopropylidene)bisphenol, BPRO, and BHF were much less inhibitory with IC50 concentrations of 20-70 microM, and relative potencies of 0.03 and 0.009 with tamoxifen. Bisphenol ethoxylate showed no anti-estrogenicity (up to 100 microM), and 4,4'-isopropylidene-diphenol diacetate was only antagonistic at 100 microM. When comparing the (anti)estrogenic potencies of these bisphenol A analogues/diphenylalkanes, anti-estrogenicity occurred at lower concentrations than estrogenicity. 4,4'-Isopropylidenebis(2,6-dimethylphenol) (IC50, 2.0 microM) reduced E2-induced (EC50, 100 nM) vtg production due to concentration-dependent cytotoxicity as indicated by a parallel decrease in MTT activity and vtg, whereas the remaining diphenylalkanes did not cause any cytotoxicity relative to controls. None of the diphenylalkanes (up to 100 microM) induced EROD activity indicating that concentration-dependent, CYP1A enzyme-mediated metabolism of E2, or any Ah-receptor-mediated interaction with the ER, was not a likely explanation for the observed anti-estrogenic effects. At concentrations as great as 100 microM, none of the diphenylalkanes directly inhibited aromatase (CYP19) activity in H295R cells. Environmental exposure of fish to BPA and related diphenylalkanes, depending on the structure, may pose anti-estrogenic, and to a lesser extent estrogenic, risks to development and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Letcher
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0H3.
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Cantón RF, Sanderson JT, Letcher RJ, Bergman A, van den Berg M. Inhibition and induction of aromatase (CYP19) activity by brominated flame retardants in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Toxicol Sci 2005; 88:447-55. [PMID: 16177243 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfi325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are persistent and ubiquitous chemicals in the environment, and they are found at increasing levels in tissues of wildlife and humans. Previous in vitro studies with the BFR class of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDEs) have shown endocrine-disrupting properties. Our study assessed the potential effects of nineteen BDEs, five hydroxylated BDEs (OH-BDEs), one methoxylated BDE (CH(3)O-BDE), tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBPA), its dibromopropane ether derivative (TBBPA-DBPE), and the brominated phenols/anisols 2,4,6-tribromophenol (TBP), 4-bromophenol (4BP) and 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA) on the catalytic activity of the steroidogenic enzyme aromatase (CYP19) in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Effects were studied in the concentration range from 0.5 to 7.5 microM; exposures were for 24 h. Both 6-OH-BDE47 and 6-OH-BDE99 showed an inhibitory effect on aromatase activity at concentrations >2.5 microM and >5 microM, respectively. However, 6-OH-BDE47 also caused a statistically significant increase in cytotoxicity (based on mitochondrial MTT reduction and lactate dehydrogenase-leakage [LDH]) at concentrations >2.5 microM that could explain in part the apparent inhibitory effect on aromatase activity. Compared to 6-OH-BDE47, the methoxy analog (6-CH(3)O-BDE47) did not elicit a cytotoxic effect, whereas significant inhibition of aromatase remained. TBP caused a concentration-dependent induction of aromatase activity between 0.5 and 7.5 microM (with a maximum of 3.8-fold induction at 7.5 microM). This induction was not observed when a OH- group replaced the CH(3)O- group or when bromine atoms adjacent to this OH- group were absent. These in vitro results provide a basis for studies of more detailed structure-activity relationships between these brominated compounds and the modulation of aromatase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío F Cantón
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, IRAS Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
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15
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Sanderson JT, Hordijk J, Denison MS, Springsteel MF, Nantz MH, van den Berg M. Induction and inhibition of aromatase (CYP19) activity by natural and synthetic flavonoid compounds in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Toxicol Sci 2004; 82:70-9. [PMID: 15319488 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfh257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [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: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Flavonoids and related structures (e.g., flavones, isoflavones, flavanones, catechins) exert various biological effects, including anticarcinogenic, antioxidant and (anti-)estrogenic effects, and modulation of sex hormone homeostasis. A key enzyme in the synthesis of estrogens from androgens is aromatase (cytochrome P450 19; CYP19). We investigated the effects of various natural and synthetic flavonoids on the catalytic activity and promoter-specific expression of aromatase in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Natural flavones were consistently more potent inhibitors than flavanones. IC(50) values for 7-hydroxyflavone, chrysin, and apigenin were 4, 7, and 20 microM, respectively; for the flavanones 7-hydroxyflavanone and naringenin the IC(50) values were 65 and 85 microM, respectively. The steroidal aromatase inhibitor (positive control) 4-hydroxyandrostenedione had an IC(50) of 20 nM. The inhibition by apigenin and naringenin coincided with some degree of cytotoxicity at 100 microM. The natural flavonoid derivative rotenone (IC(50) 0.3 microM) was the most potent aromatase inhibitor tested. Several synthetic flavonoid and structurally related quinolin-4-one analogs inhibited aromatase activity. The most potent inhibitor was 4'-tert-butyl-quinolin-4-one (IC(50) 2 microM), followed by two 2-pyridinyl-substituted alpha-naphthoflavones (IC(50)s 5 and >30 microM). The two 2-pyridinyl-substituted gamma-naphthoflavones consistently produced biphasic concentration-response curves, causing about 1.5-fold aromatase induction at concentrations below 1 microM and inhibition above that level (IC(50)s 7 and >30 microM). The natural flavone quercetin and isoflavone genistein induced aromatase activity 4- and 2.5-fold induction, respectively, at 10 microM. This coincided with increased intracellular cAMP concentrations and increased levels of the cAMP-dependent pII and to a lesser extent 1.3 promoter-specific aromatase transcripts. These results shed light on the structure-activity relationships for aromatase inhibition as well as mechanisms of induction in human H295R cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Thomas Sanderson
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Sanderson JT, Slobbe L, Lansbergen GW, Safe S, van den Berg M. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and diindolylmethanes differentially induce cytochrome P450 1A1, 1B1, and 19 in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells. Toxicol Sci 2001; 61:40-8. [PMID: 11294972 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/61.1.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diindolylmethane (DIM) is an acid-catalyzed condensation product of indole-3-carbinol, a constituent of cruciferous vegetables, and is formed in the stomach. DIM alters estrogen metabolism and inhibits carcinogen-induced mammary tumor growth in rodents. DIM is a weak agonist for the aryl hydrocarbon (Ah) receptor and blocks the effects of estrogens via inhibitory Ah receptor-estrogen receptor cross-talk. DIM and various structural analogs were examined in H295R cells for effects on 3 cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes involved in estrogen synthesis and/or metabolism: CYP1A1, CYP1B1, and CYP19 (aromatase). Aromatase activity was measured by conversion of 1 beta-(3)H-androstenedione to estrone and (3)H(2)O. H295R cells were exposed to the test chemicals dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide for 24 h prior to analyses. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) (0--30 nM) and DIM (0--10 microM) induced ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity, as a measure of CYP1A1 and possibly 1B1 activity, with EC(50) values of about 0.3 nM and 3 microM, respectively. DIM, but not TCDD, induced aromatase activity with an apparently maximal 2-fold increase at 10 microM; higher concentrations of DIM and many of its analogs were cytotoxic. TCDD (30 nM) significantly increased CYP1A1 and 1B1 mRNA levels, but had no effect on mRNA for CYP19. DIM (3 microM) significantly increased mRNA levels for all three CYPS: DIM analogs with substitutions on the 5 and 5' position (3 microM) induced aromatase and EROD activity, together with mRNA levels of CYP1A1, 1B1, and 19; analogs that were substituted on the central carbon of the methane group showed little or no inductive activity toward the CYPS: In conclusion, DIM and several of its analogs appear to induce CYPs via multiple yet distinct pathways in H295R human adrenocortical carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Sanderson
- Research Institute for Toxicology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80176, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Coulter CL, Smith RE, Stowasser M, Sasano H, Krozowski ZS, Gordon RD. Expression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11betaHSD-2) in the developing human adrenal gland and human adrenal cortical carcinoma and adenoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 1999; 154:71-7. [PMID: 10509802 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(99)00077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the ontogeny of localization of 11betaHSD-2 protein in the human adrenal gland. In addition, we have investigated the effects of abnormal adrenal function on 11betaHSD-2 by determining the pattern of localization of 11betaHSD-2 protein, and the amount and level of expression of 11betaHSD-2 mRNA and protein in human adrenal cortical carcinoma and adenoma. In the human foetal adrenal gland 11betaHSD-2 immunoreactivity (11betaHSD-2-ir) was detected in the foetal zone, whereas in normal adult adrenal glands 11betaHSD-2-ir was not detected by immunocytochemistry. In adrenal cortical carcinoma and adenoma, 11betaHSD-2-ir was detectable in specific regions, which have been identified as steroid synthesizing cells using 3betaHSD-ir as a marker. In adrenal cortical carcinoma and adenoma, 11betaHSD-2 mRNA and 11betaHSD-2 protein were detected by nuclease protection analysis and by western blot analysis, respectively. In summary, 11betaHSD-2-ir was detected in the foetal zone of the mid-gestation human foetal adrenal, whereas, 11betaHSD-2-ir was not detectable in the postnatal or normal adult adrenal gland. 11BetaHSD-2 protein and mRNA was induced in adult human adrenal cortical carcinoma and adenoma. The induction of expression of 11betaHSD-2 in the adrenal cortex suggests a possible role in regulating abnormal adrenal steroidogenic function in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Coulter
- Laboratory of Molecular Hypertension, Baker Medical Research Institute, Prahran, Victoria, Australia.
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Abstract
Histological analysis of surgically removed adrenal masses often fails to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors. In normal cells, the telomeric ends of the chromosomes are shortened with each cell division, leading to chromosome destabilization and cellular senescence after a critical number of cell cycles. In tumor cells, telomere shortening is prevented by a specific DNA polymerase, called telomerase. In an effort to clarify the role of telomerase in the pathogenesis of adrenal tumors, and to test whether its activity could serve as marker of malignancy, we measured telomerase activity in 41 human adrenal tissue samples that were classified both by the clinical course and by histological examination. Telomerase activity was determined by TRAP ELISA and expressed as high (>50% of positive control telomerase activity), medium (31-50%), low (11-30%), very low (< or = 10%), or absent (0%). The 8 normal adrenal tissue samples showed very low levels of telomerase activity. Mean telomerase activity also very low in 3/3 incidentalomas, 6/6 Cushing adenomas, 6/6 Conn adenomas, 7/7 adrenocortical carcinomas, 8/8 benign pheochromocytomas, and 2/3 malignant pheochromocytomas. In contrast, one malignant pheochromocytoma showed high telomerase activity. These data indicate that telomerase activity may not be a suitable marker for malignancy in the adrenal gland. Our results also challenge the current dogma of close correlation between cell dedifferentiation and telomerase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Bamberger
- IHF Institute for Hormone and Fertility Research, University of Hamburg, Germany.
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Sasano H, Sato F, Shizawa S, Nagura H, Coughtrie MW. Immunolocalization of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfotransferase in normal and pathologic human adrenal gland. Mod Pathol 1995; 8:891-6. [PMID: 8751327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfotransferase (DHEA-ST) catalyzes the conversion of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in the adrenals. Both DHEA and DHEA-S are quantitatively the most important corticosteroids in human. In this study, DHEA-ST was immunolocalized in normal (5 cases) and neoplastic human adrenal glands (33 cases), using a specific IgG fraction raised against the enzyme. DHEA-ST was present in almost all the zona reticularis cells and some cortical cells demonstrating lipid depletion in the zona fasciculata but not in the zona glomerulosa of the normal adrenal. This finding is consistent with adrenocorticotrophic hormone dependency of the enzyme expression. In adrenocortical adenoma, DHEA-ST immunoreactivity was observed in all the cases of Cushing's adenoma, adenoma associated with pre-Cushing's syndrome, nonfunctioning, hormonally inactive adenoma, and two of seven cases of aldosteronoma, but distribution of immunoreactivity was markedly heterogeneous among the adenoma cases. In attached non-neoplastic adrenal glands of the adenoma, intense and diffuse immunoreactivity was observed in the zona reticularis cells in all the cases of aldosteronoma and five of six of the nonfunctioning hormonally inactive adenoma, but DHEA-ST immunoreactivity was not observed or sporadic in the attached adrenal glands of Cushing's adenoma and adenoma with pre-Cushing's syndrome. These results in the attached adrenal gland may be correlated with decreased DHEA-ST expression due to autonomous neoplastic cortisol secretion and subsequent adrenocorticotrophic hormone suppression. In adrenocortical carcinoma, DHEA-ST was observed in all the cases, but the relative immunointensity of carcinoma cells was weak compared to that of the zona reticularis of the normal adrenal and adenoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Sasano
- Department of Pathology and Medicine, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Kimura M, Itoh N, Tsukamoto T, Kumamoto Y, Takagi Y, Mori Y. Aromatase activity in an estrogen-producing adrenocortical carcinoma in a young man. J Urol 1995; 153:1039-40. [PMID: 7853554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
We report on a 19-year-old man with adrenocortical adenoma producing an excessive amount of estrogen. Determination of aromatase activity of the carcinoma tissue revealed its marked enhancement compared with that of 3 normal adrenal glands and the adipose tissue. The enhanced activity of aromatase was mainly responsible for the overproduction of estrogen in the adrenocortical carcinoma of our case.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kimura
- Department of Urology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Japan
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