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1.
J Clin Invest ; 134(6)2024 Feb 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38319732

ABSTRACT

Diffuse midline glioma (DMG), including tumors diagnosed in the brainstem (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma; DIPG), are uniformly fatal brain tumors that lack effective treatment. Analysis of CRISPR/Cas9 loss-of-function gene deletion screens identified PIK3CA and MTOR as targetable molecular dependencies across patient derived models of DIPG, highlighting the therapeutic potential of the blood-brain barrier-penetrant PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitor, paxalisib. At the human-equivalent maximum tolerated dose, mice treated with paxalisib experienced systemic glucose feedback and increased insulin levels commensurate with patients using PI3K inhibitors. To exploit genetic dependence and overcome resistance while maintaining compliance and therapeutic benefit, we combined paxalisib with the antihyperglycemic drug metformin. Metformin restored glucose homeostasis and decreased phosphorylation of the insulin receptor in vivo, a common mechanism of PI3K-inhibitor resistance, extending survival of orthotopic models. DIPG models treated with paxalisib increased calcium-activated PKC signaling. The brain penetrant PKC inhibitor enzastaurin, in combination with paxalisib, synergistically extended the survival of multiple orthotopic patient-derived and immunocompetent syngeneic allograft models; benefits potentiated in combination with metformin and standard-of-care radiotherapy. Therapeutic adaptation was assessed using spatial transcriptomics and ATAC-Seq, identifying changes in myelination and tumor immune microenvironment crosstalk. Collectively, this study has identified what we believe to be a clinically relevant DIPG therapeutic combinational strategy.


Subject(s)
Brain Stem Neoplasms , Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma , Glioma , Metformin , Humans , Mice , Animals , Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma/drug therapy , Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma/genetics , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/genetics , Brain Stem Neoplasms/drug therapy , Brain Stem Neoplasms/genetics , Glioma/drug therapy , Glioma/genetics , Glioma/pathology , TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics , Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology , Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use , Phosphoinositide-3 Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use , Glucose , Metformin/pharmacology , Tumor Microenvironment
2.
Front Immunol ; 14: 1270194, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38077324

ABSTRACT

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide and treatment options for advanced CRC, which has a low 5-year survival rate, remain limited. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK), a multifunctional, scaffolding, pseudo-kinase regulating many integrin-mediated cellular processes, is highly expressed in many cancers. However, the role of ILK in cancer progression is yet to be fully understood. We have previously uncovered a pro-inflammatory role for myeloid-specific ILK in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. To establish a correlation between chronic intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer (CRC), we investigated the role of myeloid-ILK in mouse models of CRC. When myeloid-ILK deficient mice along with the WT control mice were subjected to colitis-associated and APCmin/+-driven CRC, tumour burden was reduced by myeloid-ILK deficiency in both models. The tumour-promoting phenotype of macrophages, M2 polarization, in vitro was impaired by the ILK deficiency and the number of M2-specific marker CD206-expressing tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in vivo were significantly diminished in myeloid-ILK deficient mice. Myeloid-ILK deficient mice showed enhanced tumour infiltration of CD8+ T cells and reduced tumour infiltration of FOXP3+ T cells in colitis-associated and APCmin/+-driven CRC, respectively, with an overall elevated CD8+/FOXP3+ ratio suggesting an anti-tumour immune phenotypes. In patient CRC tissue microarrays we observed elevated ILK+ myeloid (ILK+ CD11b+) cells in tumour sections compared to adjacent normal tissues, suggesting a conserved role for myeloid-ILK in CRC development in both human and animal models. This study identifies myeloid-specific ILK expression as novel driver of CRC, which could be targeted as a potential therapeutic option for advanced disease.


Subject(s)
Colitis , Colorectal Neoplasms , Humans , Animals , Mice , Carcinogenesis , Cell Transformation, Neoplastic , Colorectal Neoplasms/pathology , Myeloid Cells/pathology , Forkhead Transcription Factors
3.
Genome Biol ; 24(1): 284, 2023 Dec 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38066546

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Point mutations in histone variant H3.3 (H3.3K27M, H3.3G34R) and the H3.3-specific ATRX/DAXX chaperone complex are frequent events in pediatric gliomas. These H3.3 point mutations affect many chromatin modifications but the exact oncogenic mechanisms are currently unclear. Histone H3.3 is known to localize to nuclear compartments known as promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies, which are frequently mutated and confirmed as oncogenic drivers in acute promyelocytic leukemia. RESULTS: We find that the pediatric glioma-associated H3.3 point mutations disrupt the formation of PML nuclear bodies and this prevents differentiation down glial lineages. Similar to leukemias driven by PML mutations, H3.3-mutated glioma cells are sensitive to drugs that target PML bodies. We also find that point mutations in IDH1/2-which are common events in adult gliomas and myeloid leukemias-also disrupt the formation of PML bodies. CONCLUSIONS: We identify PML as a contributor to oncogenesis in a subset of gliomas and show that targeting PML bodies is effective in treating these H3.3-mutated pediatric gliomas.


Subject(s)
Brain Neoplasms , Glioma , Histones , Adult , Child , Humans , Brain Neoplasms/genetics , Glioma/genetics , Histones/genetics , Mutation , Promyelocytic Leukemia Nuclear Bodies/genetics , Promyelocytic Leukemia Nuclear Bodies/pathology
4.
STAR Protoc ; 4(3): 102537, 2023 Sep 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37656627

ABSTRACT

Pediatric cell line models are important for basic and translational research. However, their establishment has been hampered by low success rates and the lack of a unified approach. Here, we present a protocol to establish pediatric cancer cell lines from rare childhood tumors. We describe the requirements for successful establishment, including an optimized dissociation technique, and the appropriate media conditions necessary for several types of rare but lethal forms of childhood cancers. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Sun et al.1.


Subject(s)
Neoplasms , Humans , Child , Cell Line
5.
Cancer Res ; 2023 May 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37145169

ABSTRACT

Diffuse midline gliomas (DMG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs), are the most lethal of childhood cancers. Palliative radiotherapy is the only established treatment, with median patient survival of 9-11 months. ONC201 is a DRD2 antagonist and ClpP agonist that has shown preclinical and emerging clinical efficacy in DMG. However, further work is needed to identify the mechanisms of response of DIPGs to ONC201 treatment and to determine whether recurring genomic features influence response. Using a systems-biological approach, we showed that ONC201 elicits potent agonism of the mitochondrial protease ClpP to drive proteolysis of electron transport chain and tricarboxylic acid cycle proteins. DIPGs harboring PIK3CA-mutations showed increased sensitivity to ONC201, while those harboring TP53-mutations were more resistant. Metabolic adaptation and reduced sensitivity to ONC201 was promoted by redox-activated PI3K/Akt signaling, which could be counteracted using the brain penetrant PI3K/Akt inhibitor, paxalisib. Together, these discoveries coupled with the powerful anti-DIPG/DMG pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of ONC201 and paxalisib have provided the rationale for the ongoing DIPG/DMG phase II combination clinical trial NCT05009992.

6.
Cancer Res ; : OF1-OF17, 2023 May 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37195023

ABSTRACT

Diffuse midline gliomas (DMG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG), are the most lethal of childhood cancers. Palliative radiotherapy is the only established treatment, with median patient survival of 9 to 11 months. ONC201 is a DRD2 antagonist and ClpP agonist that has shown preclinical and emerging clinical efficacy in DMG. However, further work is needed to identify the mechanisms of response of DIPGs to ONC201 treatment and to determine whether recurring genomic features influence response. Using a systems-biological approach, we showed that ONC201 elicits potent agonism of the mitochondrial protease ClpP to drive proteolysis of electron transport chain and tricarboxylic acid cycle proteins. DIPGs harboring PIK3CA mutations showed increased sensitivity to ONC201, whereas those harboring TP53 mutations were more resistant. Metabolic adaptation and reduced sensitivity to ONC201 was promoted by redox-activated PI3K/Akt signaling, which could be counteracted using the brain penetrant PI3K/Akt inhibitor, paxalisib. Together, these discoveries coupled with the powerful anti-DIPG/DMG pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of ONC201 and paxalisib have provided the rationale for the ongoing DIPG/DMG phase II combination clinical trial NCT05009992. SIGNIFICANCE: PI3K/Akt signaling promotes metabolic adaptation to ONC201-mediated disruption of mitochondrial energy homeostasis in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, highlighting the utility of a combination treatment strategy using ONC201 and the PI3K/Akt inhibitor paxalisib.

7.
MAbs ; 14(1): 2115213, 2022.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36206404

ABSTRACT

T cell-engaging bispecific antibodies (TCEs) are clinically effective treatments for hematological cancers. While the utility of TCEs in solid malignancies is being explored, toxicities arising from antigen expression on normal tissues have slowed or halted several clinical trials. Here, we describe the development of TCEs that preferentially drive T cell-mediated death against target cells co-expressing two tumor-associated antigens. We show that Ly6E and B7-H4 are simultaneously expressed on approximately 50% of breast cancers, whereas normal tissue expression is limited and mostly orthogonal. Traditional bispecific TCEs targeting a singular antigen, either Ly6E or B7-H4, are active when paired with high-affinity CD3-engagers, but normal tissue expression presents a toxicity risk. Treatment with a murine cross-reactive B7-H4-TCE results in rapid and severe weight loss in mice along with damage to B7-H4-expressing tissues. To overcome on-target toxicity, we designed trispecific antibodies co-targeting Ly6E, B7-H4, and CD3 and characterized the impact of dual-antigen binding and the relative placement of each binding domain on tumor killing in vitro and in vivo. In vitro killing of tumor cells co-expressing both antigens correlates to the placement of the higher affinity B7-H4 binding domain, with only modest enhancements seen upon addition of Ly6E binding. In xenograft models, avid binding of appropriately designed trispecific TCEs enables tumor growth inhibition while evading the poor tolerability seen with active bispecific TCEs. Collectively these data highlight the potential for dual-antigen targeting to improve safety and efficacy, and expand the scope of tumors that may effectively be treated by TCEs.Abbreviations: Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-Ts), dual-antigen targeted T cell engagers (DAT-TCE), Fragment antigen-binding (Fab), Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), Immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunohistochemistry (IHC), NOD SCID gamma (NSG), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), T cell-engagers (TCEs).


Subject(s)
Antibodies, Bispecific , Receptors, Chimeric Antigen , Animals , Antibodies, Bispecific/pharmacology , Cell Line, Tumor , Eosine Yellowish-(YS) , Hematoxylin , Humans , Immunoglobulin G , Leukocytes, Mononuclear , Mice , Mice, SCID , T-Lymphocytes , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
8.
J Clin Invest ; 132(20)2022 10 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36006697

ABSTRACT

Initiation and maintenance of transcriptional states are critical for controlling normal tissue homeostasis and differentiation. The cyclin dependent kinases CDK8 and CDK19 (Mediator kinases) are regulatory components of Mediator, a highly conserved complex that orchestrates enhancer-mediated transcriptional output. While Mediator kinases have been implicated in the transcription of genes necessary for development and growth, its function in mammals has not been well defined. Using genetically defined models and pharmacological inhibitors, we showed that CDK8 and CDK19 function in a redundant manner to regulate intestinal lineage specification in humans and mice. The Mediator kinase module bound and phosphorylated key components of the chromatin remodeling complex switch/sucrose non-fermentable (SWI/SNF) in intestinal epithelial cells. Concomitantly, SWI/SNF and MED12-Mediator colocalized at distinct lineage-specifying enhancers in a CDK8/19-dependent manner. Thus, these studies reveal a transcriptional mechanism of intestinal cell specification, coordinated by the interaction between the chromatin remodeling complex SWI/SNF and Mediator kinase.


Subject(s)
Chromatin Assembly and Disassembly , Sucrose , Animals , Chromatin/genetics , Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8/genetics , Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8/metabolism , Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/genetics , Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/metabolism , Cyclins/genetics , Cyclins/metabolism , Homeostasis , Humans , Mammals/genetics , Mammals/metabolism , Mice , Transcription Factors/genetics , Transcription Factors/metabolism
9.
Mol Cell ; 82(1): 123-139.e7, 2022 01 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34910943

ABSTRACT

Mediator kinases (CDK8/19) are transcriptional regulators broadly implicated in cancer. Despite their central role in fine-tuning gene-expression programs, we find complete loss of CDK8/19 is tolerated in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Using orthogonal functional genomic and pharmacological screens, we identify BET protein inhibition as a distinct vulnerability in CDK8/19-depleted cells. Combined CDK8/19 and BET inhibition led to synergistic growth retardation in human and mouse models of CRC. Strikingly, depletion of CDK8/19 in these cells led to global repression of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) promoter occupancy and transcription. Concurrently, loss of Mediator kinase led to a profound increase in MED12 and BRD4 co-occupancy at enhancer elements and increased dependence on BET proteins for the transcriptional output of cell-essential genes. In total, this work demonstrates a synthetic lethal interaction between Mediator kinase and BET proteins and exposes a therapeutic vulnerability that can be targeted using combination therapies.


Subject(s)
Cell Cycle Proteins/metabolism , Cell Proliferation , Colorectal Neoplasms/enzymology , Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8/metabolism , Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/metabolism , Mediator Complex/metabolism , Nuclear Proteins/metabolism , Transcription Factors/metabolism , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use , Binding Sites , Cell Cycle Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors , Cell Cycle Proteins/genetics , Cell Proliferation/drug effects , Colorectal Neoplasms/drug therapy , Colorectal Neoplasms/genetics , Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8/genetics , Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/genetics , Enhancer Elements, Genetic , Female , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic , HCT116 Cells , Humans , Male , Mediator Complex/antagonists & inhibitors , Mediator Complex/genetics , Mice, Inbred BALB C , Mice, Knockout , Mice, Nude , Nerve Tissue Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors , Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics , Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism , Nuclear Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors , Nuclear Proteins/genetics , Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology , Receptors, Cell Surface/antagonists & inhibitors , Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics , Receptors, Cell Surface/metabolism , Signal Transduction , Transcription Factors/antagonists & inhibitors , Transcription Factors/genetics , Transcription, Genetic , Tumor Burden , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
10.
Cancers (Basel) ; 13(20)2021 Oct 14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34680294

ABSTRACT

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumour (ATRT) is a rare but highly aggressive undifferentiated solid tumour arising in the central nervous system and predominantly affecting infants and young children. ATRT is exclusively characterized by the inactivation of SMARCB1, a member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complex that is essential for the regulation of large sets of genes required for normal development and differentiation. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are a promising anticancer therapy and are able to mimic the normal acetylation functions of SMARCB1 in SMARCB1-deficient cells and drive multilineage differentiation in extracranial rhabdoid tumours. However, the potential efficacy of HDACi in ATRT is unknown. Here, we show that human ATRT cells are highly responsive to the HDACi panobinostat and that sustained treatment leads to growth arrest, increased cell senescence, decreased clonogenicity and induction of a neurogenesis gene-expression profile. Furthermore, in an orthotopic ATRT xenograft model, continuous panobinostat treatment inhibits tumour growth, increases survival and drives neuronal differentiation as shown by the expression of the neuronal marker, TUJ1. Collectively, this preclinical study supports the therapeutic potential of panobinostat-mediated differentiation therapy for ATRT.

11.
Nanotechnol Sci Appl ; 14: 139-159, 2021.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34522092

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: We recently reported on preferential deposition of bare fluorescent diamond particles FDP-NV-700/800nm (FDP-NV) in the liver following intravenous administration to rats. The pharmacokinetics of FDP-NV in that species indicated short residency in the circulation by rapid clearance by the liver. Retention of FDP-NV in the liver was not associated with any pathology. These observations suggested that cancer therapeutics, such as doxorubicin, linked to FDP-NV, could potentially serve for anti-cancer treatment while sparing toxicities of peripheral organs. PURPOSE: To generate proof-of-concept (POC) and detail mechanisms of action of doxorubicin-coated FDP-NV-700/800nm (FDP-DOX) as a prospective chemotherapeutic for metastatic liver cancer. METHODS: FDP-DOX was generated by adsorption chemistry. Experimental design included concentration and time-dependent efficacy studies as compared with naïve (baren) FDP-NV in in vitro liver cancer cells models. Uptake of FDP-NV and FDP-DOX by HepG-2, Hep-3B and hCRC organoids were demonstrated by flow-cytometry and fluorescent microscopy. FDP-DOX pharmacodynamic effects included metabolic as well as cell death biomarkers Annexin V, TUNEL and LDH leakage. DOX desorpted from FDP-DOX was assessed by confocal microscopy and chemical assay of cells fractions. RESULTS: FDP-DOX efficacy was dose- and time-dependent and manifested in both liver cancer cell lines and human CRC organoids. FDP-DOX was rapidly internalized into cancer cells/organoids leading to cancer growth inhibition and apoptosis. FDP-DOX disrupted cell membrane integrity as evident by LDH release and suppressing mitochondrial metabolic pathways (AlamarBlue assay). Access of free DOX to the nuclei was confirmed by direct UV-Visible fluorescent assay and confocal microscopy of DOX fluorescence. CONCLUSION: The rapid uptake and profound cancer inhibition observed using FDP-DOX in clinically relevant cancer models, highlight FDP-DOX promise for cancer chemotherapeutics. We also conclude that the in vitro data justify further investment in in vivo POC studies.

12.
Sci Adv ; 7(21)2021 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34138730

ABSTRACT

Aberrant activation of Wnt/ß-catenin pathway is a key driver of colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and of great therapeutic importance. In this study, we performed comprehensive CRISPR screens to interrogate the regulatory network of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling in CRC cells. We found marked discrepancies between the artificial TOP reporter activity and ß-catenin-mediated endogenous transcription and redundant roles of T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor transcription factors in transducing ß-catenin signaling. Compiled functional genomic screens and network analysis revealed unique epigenetic regulators of ß-catenin transcriptional output, including the histone lysine methyltransferase 2A oncoprotein (KMT2A/Mll1). Using an integrative epigenomic and transcriptional profiling approach, we show that KMT2A loss diminishes the binding of ß-catenin to consensus DNA motifs and the transcription of ß-catenin targets in CRC. These results suggest that KMT2A may be a promising target for CRCs and highlight the broader potential for exploiting epigenetic modulation as a therapeutic strategy for ß-catenin-driven malignancies.


Subject(s)
Colorectal Neoplasms , beta Catenin , CRISPR-Cas Systems , Cell Line, Tumor , Cell Proliferation , Colorectal Neoplasms/pathology , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic , Humans , TCF Transcription Factors/metabolism , Wnt Signaling Pathway/genetics , beta Catenin/genetics , beta Catenin/metabolism
13.
Cells ; 9(9)2020 09 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32961708

ABSTRACT

The Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway exerts integral roles in embryogenesis and adult homeostasis. Aberrant activation of the pathway is implicated in growth-associated diseases and cancers, especially as a key driver in the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Loss or inactivation of Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) results in constitutive activation of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling, which is considered as an initiating event in the development of CRC. Increased Wnt/ß-catenin signaling is observed in virtually all CRC patients, underscoring the importance of this pathway for therapeutic intervention. Prior studies have deciphered the regulatory networks required for the cytoplasmic stabilisation or degradation of the Wnt pathway effector, ß-catenin. However, the mechanism whereby nuclear ß-catenin drives or inhibits expression of Wnt target genes is more diverse and less well characterised. Here, we describe a brief synopsis of the core canonical Wnt pathway components, set the spotlight on nuclear mediators and highlight the emerging role of chromatin regulators as modulators of ß-catenin-dependent transcription activity and oncogenic output.


Subject(s)
Carcinogenesis/genetics , Colorectal Neoplasms/genetics , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic , Transcription, Genetic , Wnt Proteins/genetics , beta Catenin/genetics , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Protein/genetics , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Protein/metabolism , Carcinogenesis/metabolism , Carcinogenesis/pathology , Chromatin/chemistry , Chromatin/metabolism , Chromatin/pathology , Colorectal Neoplasms/metabolism , Colorectal Neoplasms/pathology , Disease Progression , Epigenesis, Genetic , Histones/genetics , Histones/metabolism , Humans , Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex/metabolism , Proteolysis , Signal Transduction , TCF Transcription Factors/genetics , TCF Transcription Factors/metabolism , Wnt Proteins/metabolism , beta Catenin/metabolism
15.
Cell Metab ; 28(3): 383-399.e9, 2018 09 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30043751

ABSTRACT

The enzyme glutaminase (GLS1) is currently in clinical trials for oncology, yet there are no clear diagnostic criteria to identify responders. The evaluation of 25 basal breast lines expressing GLS1, predominantly through its splice isoform GAC, demonstrated that only GLS1-dependent basal B lines required it for maintaining de novo glutathione synthesis in addition to mitochondrial bioenergetics. Drug sensitivity profiling of 407 tumor lines with GLS1 and gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCS) inhibitors revealed a high degree of co-dependency on both enzymes across indications, suggesting that redox balance is a key function of GLS1 in tumors. To leverage these findings, we derived a pan-cancer metabolic signature predictive of GLS1/GCS co-dependency and validated it in vivo using four lung patient-derived xenograft models, revealing the additional requirement for expression of GAC above a threshold (log2RPKM + 1 ≥ 4.5, where RPKM is reads per kilobase per million mapped reads). Analysis of the pan-TCGA dataset with our signature identified multiple indications, including mesenchymal tumors, as putative responders to GLS1 inhibitors.


Subject(s)
Breast Neoplasms , Glutamate-Cysteine Ligase , Glutaminase , Lung Neoplasms , Mesenchymal Stem Cells , Metabolome , Animals , Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism , Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy , Breast Neoplasms/metabolism , Cell Line, Tumor , Citric Acid/metabolism , Databases, Genetic , Female , Glutamate-Cysteine Ligase/antagonists & inhibitors , Glutamate-Cysteine Ligase/metabolism , Glutaminase/antagonists & inhibitors , Glutaminase/metabolism , Glutathione/metabolism , HEK293 Cells , Humans , Isoenzymes/metabolism , Lung Neoplasms/drug therapy , Lung Neoplasms/metabolism , Mesenchymal Stem Cells/drug effects , Mesenchymal Stem Cells/pathology , Mice , Mice, Inbred BALB C , Mice, Nude , Mice, SCID , Tumor Stem Cell Assay , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
16.
Nat Commun ; 9(1): 1106, 2018 03 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29549256

ABSTRACT

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) acts as a molecular safeguard in ensuring faithful chromosome transmission during mitosis, which is regulated by a complex interplay between phosphatases and kinases including PLK1. Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) germline mutations cause aneuploidy and are responsible for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Here we study the role of PLK1 in colon cancer cells with chromosomal instability promoted by APC truncation (APC-ΔC). The expression of APC-ΔC in colon cells reduces the accumulation of mitotic cells upon PLK1 inhibition, accelerates mitotic exit and increases the survival of cells with enhanced chromosomal abnormalities. The inhibition of PLK1 in mitotic, APC-∆C-expressing cells reduces the kinetochore levels of Aurora B and hampers the recruitment of SAC component suggesting a compromised mitotic checkpoint. Furthermore, Plk1 inhibition (RNAi, pharmacological compounds) promotes the development of adenomatous polyps in two independent Apc Min/+ mouse models. High PLK1 expression increases the survival of colon cancer patients expressing a truncated APC significantly.


Subject(s)
Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Protein/metabolism , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli/enzymology , Cell Cycle Proteins/metabolism , Colonic Neoplasms/enzymology , Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism , Proto-Oncogene Proteins/metabolism , Tumor Suppressor Proteins/metabolism , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli/genetics , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli/physiopathology , Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Protein/genetics , Animals , Aurora Kinase B/genetics , Aurora Kinase B/metabolism , Cell Cycle Proteins/genetics , Cell Line, Tumor , Chromosomal Instability , Colonic Neoplasms/genetics , Colonic Neoplasms/physiopathology , Female , Humans , Kinetochores/metabolism , Male , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Mice, Knockout , Mitosis , Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics , Proto-Oncogene Proteins/genetics , Tumor Suppressor Proteins/genetics , Polo-Like Kinase 1
17.
Front Cell Dev Biol ; 6: 171, 2018.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30693281

ABSTRACT

CDK8 and its paralog, CDK19, collectively termed 'Mediator Kinase,' are cyclin-dependent kinases that have been implicated as key rheostats in cellular homeostasis and developmental programming. CDK8 and CDK19 are incorporated, in a mutually exclusive manner, as part of a 4-protein complex called the Mediator kinase module. This module reversibly associates with the Mediator, a 26 subunit protein complex that regulates RNA Polymerase II mediated gene expression. As part of this complex, the Mediator kinases have been implicated in diverse process such as developmental signaling, metabolic homeostasis and in innate immunity. In recent years, dysregulation of Mediator kinase module proteins, including CDK8/19, has been implicated in the development of different human diseases, and in particular cancer. This has led to intense efforts to understand how CDK8/19 regulate diverse biological outputs and develop Mediator kinase inhibitors that can be exploited therapeutically. Herein, we review both context and function of the Mediator kinases at a molecular, cellular and animal level. In so doing, we illuminate emerging concepts underpinning Mediator kinase biology and highlight certain aspects that remain unsolved.

18.
Mol Cancer Ther ; 17(3): 638-649, 2018 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29282299

ABSTRACT

Luminal A (hormone receptor-positive) breast cancer constitutes 70% of total breast cancer patients. In an attempt to develop a targeted therapeutic for this cancer indication, we have identified and characterized Glial cell line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) Family Receptor Alpha 1 (GFRA1) antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) using a cleavable valine-citrulline-MMAE (vcMMAE) linker-payload. RNAseq and IHC analysis confirmed the abundant expression of GFRA1 in luminal A breast cancer tissues, whereas minimal or no expression was observed in most normal tissues. Anti-GFRA-vcMMAE ADC internalized to the lysosomes and exhibited target-dependent killing of GFRA1-expressing cells both in vitro and in vivo The ADCs using humanized anti-GFRA1 antibodies displayed robust therapeutic activity in clinically relevant cell line-derived (MCF7 and KPL-1) tumor xenograft models. The lead anti-GFRA1 ADC cross-reacts with rodent and cynomolgus monkey GFRA1 antigen and showed optimal pharmacokinetic properties in both species. These properties subsequently enabled a target-dependent toxicity study in rats. Anti-GFRA1 ADC is well tolerated in rats, as seen with other vcMMAE linker-payload based ADCs. Overall, these data suggest that anti-GFRA1-vcMMAE ADC may provide a targeted therapeutic opportunity for luminal A breast cancer patients. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(3); 638-49. ©2017 AACR.


Subject(s)
Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy , Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Receptors/antagonists & inhibitors , Immunoconjugates/pharmacology , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays , Animals , Antibodies/chemistry , Antibodies/immunology , Antibodies/pharmacology , Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry , Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology , Breast Neoplasms/genetics , Breast Neoplasms/metabolism , Cell Line, Tumor , Cell Survival/drug effects , Cell Survival/genetics , Female , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects , Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Receptors/genetics , Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Receptors/immunology , HEK293 Cells , Humans , Immunoconjugates/immunology , Immunoconjugates/pharmacokinetics , MCF-7 Cells , Macaca fascicularis , Mice, Nude , Mice, SCID , Rats, Sprague-Dawley , Receptors, Steroid/metabolism , Tumor Burden/drug effects , Tumor Burden/genetics
19.
Ann Transl Med ; 5(5): 113, 2017 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28361078

ABSTRACT

The concept of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), which includes the delivery of cytotoxic drugs to antigen-expressing tumor cells by harnessing the antigen-selectivity of a monoclonal antibody, has the potential to redefine the landscape of translational medicine. With the advent of patient derived xenograft (PDX) models and sophisticated genomic technologies, the identification of a selective antigen can be accurately validated within the appropriate tumor milieu. However, a major biological hurdle in cancer translational medicine is the inherent tumoral heterogeneity, underscoring the importance of targeting the 'right' sub-population of cancer cells. Herein, we review a seminal work highlighting the ability to target a key 'stem-like' cancer sub-population called tumor initiating cells (TICs) using engineered ADCs. While the promise of this approach needs to be validated in the clinical setting, TIC-targeted ADCs offer great hope for circumventing current limitations with conventional ADC therapy.

20.
Mol Cancer Ther ; 16(1): 134-142, 2017 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27760836

ABSTRACT

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) use monoclonal antibodies (mAb) as vehicles to deliver potent cytotoxic drugs selectively to tumor cells expressing the target. Molecular imaging with zirconium-89 (89Zr)-labeled mAbs recapitulates similar targeting biology and might help predict the efficacy of these ADCs. An anti-mesothelin antibody (AMA, MMOT0530A) was used to make comparisons between its efficacy as an ADC and its tumor uptake as measured by 89Zr immunoPET imaging. Mesothelin-targeted tumor growth inhibition by monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), ADC AMA-MMAE (DMOT4039A), was measured in mice bearing xenografts of ovarian cancer OVCAR-3×2.1, pancreatic cancers Capan-2, HPAC, AsPC-1, and HPAF-II, or mesothelioma MSTO-211H. Ex vivo analysis of mesothelin expression was performed using immunohistochemistry. AMA-MMAE showed the greatest growth inhibition in OVCAR-3×2.1, Capan-2, and HPAC tumors, which showed target-specific tumor uptake of 89Zr-AMA. The less responsive xenografts (AsPC-1, HPAF-II, and MSTO-211H) did not show 89Zr-AMA uptake despite confirmed mesothelin expression. ImmunoPET can demonstrate the necessary delivery, binding, and internalization of an ADC antibody in vivo and this correlates with the efficacy of mesothelin-targeted ADC in tumors vulnerable to the cytotoxic drug delivered. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(1); 134-42. ©2016 AACR.


Subject(s)
Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology , GPI-Linked Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors , Immunoconjugates/pharmacology , Positron-Emission Tomography , Radiopharmaceuticals , Zirconium , Animals , Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacokinetics , Biomarkers, Tumor , Cell Line, Tumor , Disease Models, Animal , Dose-Response Relationship, Drug , Drug Evaluation, Preclinical , Female , Flow Cytometry , GPI-Linked Proteins/genetics , GPI-Linked Proteins/metabolism , Gene Expression , Humans , Immunoconjugates/pharmacokinetics , Mesothelin , Mice , Molecular Targeted Therapy , Neoplasms/diagnosis , Neoplasms/drug therapy , Neoplasms/metabolism , Tumor Burden/drug effects , Tumor Burden/radiation effects , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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