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Alzial, G.

Publications and source records attributed to Alzial, G..

2 recordsLinked to original sources

Integrated Metabolic Complex Genetic Interaction 1 Network of Chromosome 4p Loss in Basal Breast Cancer

Basal breast cancer subtype is enriched for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and exhibits a recurrent large chromosomal deletion in chromosome 4p (chr4p). Chr4p loss is associated with poor survival, evolves early in tumorigenesis and confers on cells a proliferative state. Here, we map the integrated metabolic complex genetic interaction network of chr4p in basal breast cancer to identify targetable vulnerabilities. Differential gene expression analysis of patient derived xenografts and cancer cell models revealed that chr4p loss is associated with changes in cellular energetics and reduction/oxidation balance. Analysis of DepMap pooled genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screens identified complex genetic interactions specific to chr4p deletion in basal breast cancer cell models. Functional assays revealed that chr4p loss is associated with disrupted mitochondrial respiratory function and reduced glycolytic capacity, suggesting metabolic rewiring. Increased reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation compromised antioxidant defense mechanisms. Ultimately, this study sheds light on targeted therapies for basal breast cancer harboring large chromosomal deletions.

genomics↗

EZH2 Inhibition Induces an Integrated Stress Response Driving Glutamine-Dependent Vulnerability in TNBC

EZH2, the catalytic subunit of Polycomb Repressive Complex II, is overexpressed and associated with poor prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Although EZH2 inhibition induces significant changes in chromatin landscapes and gene expression, it has a limited impact on the growth of TNBC models, suggesting adaptive compensatory mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that EZH2 inhibition leads to the accumulation of misfolded proteins and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), triggering an essential integrated stress response (ISR) through PKR and PERK activation. By inducing ISR-mediated ATF4 activation, EZH2 inhibition enhances amino acid flux and promotes glutaminolysis, in turn activating mTOR signaling to support TNBC cell survival. Pharmacological targeting of this metabolic adaptation with a glutaminase (GLS) inhibitor in combination with EZH2 inhibition significantly impairs TNBC cell proliferation and tumor growth. These findings reveal a stress-driven metabolic adaptation that sustains TNBC survival upon EZH2 blockade and highlight inhibition of this pathway as a strategy to enhance the efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors in TNBC.

cancer biology↗