Metabotyping human endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma reveals an implication of endocannabinoid metabolism

Oncotarget. 2016 Aug 9;7(32):52364-52374. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.10564.

Abstract

Metabolomics, an essential technique in precision medicine, contributes to the molecular fingerprinting of tumours, further helping to understand their pathogenesis. In this work, using a LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS platform, we demonstrated the existence of a specific metabolomic signature which could define endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC), arising the endocannabinoid system as a potential pathway involved in EC pathogenesis. Metabolomics could also shed light in the processes involved in myometrial invasion, proposing new targets for possible therapeutic intervention. Consequently, we also described a different metabolomic profile in surface endometrioid carcinoma and myometrial invasive front. We validated pathways disclosed by metabolomics by immunohistochemistry. Specifically, endocannabinoid and purine metabolism could be involved in tumor myometrial invasion.

Keywords: endocannabinoid system; endometrioid endometrial carcinoma; mass spectrometry; metabolomic profile; personalized medicine.

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid / metabolism*
  • Endocannabinoids / metabolism*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Metabolomics / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Endocannabinoids