Cross-species genomics identifies DLG2 as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma

Oncogene. 2019 Jan;38(2):291-298. doi: 10.1038/s41388-018-0444-4. Epub 2018 Aug 9.

Abstract

Leveraging the conserved cancer genomes across mammals has the potential to transform driver gene discovery in orphan cancers. Here, we combine cross-species genomics with validation across human-dog-mouse systems to uncover a new bone tumor suppressor gene. Comparative genomics of spontaneous human and dog osteosarcomas (OS) expose Disks Large Homolog 2 (DLG2) as a tumor suppressor candidate. DLG2 copy number loss occurs in 42% of human and 56% of canine OS. Functional validation through pertinent human and canine OS DLG2-deficient cell lines identifies a regulatory role of DLG2 in cell division, migration and tumorigenesis. Moreover, osteoblast-specific deletion of Dlg2 in a clinically relevant genetically engineered mouse model leads to acceleration of OS development, establishing DLG2 as a critical determinant of OS. This widely applicable cross-species approach serves as a platform to expedite the search of cancer drivers in rare human malignancies, offering new targets for cancer therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Dogs
  • Genes, Tumor Suppressor
  • Genomics
  • Guanylate Kinases / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Osteosarcoma / genetics*
  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins / genetics*

Substances

  • Tumor Suppressor Proteins
  • DLG2 protein, human
  • Guanylate Kinases