Copy number signatures and CCNE1 amplification reveal the involvement of replication stress in high-grade endometrial tumors oncogenesis

Cell Oncol (Dordr). 2024 Aug;47(4):1441-1457. doi: 10.1007/s13402-024-00942-w. Epub 2024 Apr 2.

Abstract

Purpose: Managing high-grade endometrial cancer in Martinique poses significant challenges. The diversity of copy number alterations in high-grade endometrial tumors, often associated with a TP53 mutation, is a key factor complicating treatment. Due to the high incidence of high-grade tumors with poor prognosis, our study aimed to characterize the molecular signature of these tumors within a cohort of 25 high-grade endometrial cases.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive pangenomic analysis to categorize the copy number alterations involved in these tumors. Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) and Homologous Recombination (HR) analysis were performed. The alterations obtained from the WES were classified into various signatures using the Copy Number Signatures tool available in COSMIC.

Results: We identified several signatures that correlated with tumor stage and disctinct prognoses. These signatures all seem to be linked to replication stress, with CCNE1 amplification identified as the primary driver of oncogenesis in over 70% of tumors analyzed.

Conclusion: The identification of CCNE1 amplification, which is currently being explored as a therapeutic target in clinical trials, suggests new treatment strategies for high-grade endometrial cancer. This finding holds particular significance for Martinique, where access to care is challenging.

Keywords: CCNE1 amplification; Copy number signature; High-grade endometrial cancer; Replication stress.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinogenesis / genetics
  • Cyclin E* / genetics
  • DNA Copy Number Variations* / genetics
  • DNA Replication / genetics
  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Exome Sequencing
  • Female
  • Gene Amplification*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Grading*
  • Oncogene Proteins* / genetics
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Cyclin E
  • CCNE1 protein, human
  • Oncogene Proteins