Overexpression of cytochrome P450 2A6 in adrenocortical carcinoma

Background Cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents contributes to chemotherapy resistance in multiple malignancies. Adrenocortical carcinoma is known to have a poor response to adjuvant therapies; however, the mechanism remains unknown. Recent comprehensive genetic analyses of adrenocortical carcinomas demonstrated recurrent copy number gains in multiple cytochrome P450 genes prompting investigation into whether cytochrome P450 overexpression potentiates adrenocortical carcinoma chemoresistance. Methods We determined the expression patterns of 6 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP2A6, CYP2A7, CYP2A13, CYP2B6, CYP2S1, and CYP4F2) predicted to be amplified in adrenocortical carcinoma (n = 29) relative to normal adrenal cortex (n = 10). Gene copy numbers were determined with the TaqMan copy number assay. Gene silencing was performed via small interfering RNA (siRNA) in the adrenocortical carcinoma cell line NCI-H295R and treated with mitotane and cisplatin. Results Of the 6 cytochrome P450 genes tested, CYP2A6 was overexpressed with a 55-fold mean increase compared to normal adrenal samples (P < .05). Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed protein overexpression. Copy gains of CYP2A6 were found in 26% (7/27) of adrenocortical carcinoma specimens. Silencing of CYP2A6 in NCI-H295R cells resulted in decreased cell viability and increased chemosensitivity (P < .05). Conclusion Frequent upregulation in adrenocortical carcinomas and the reversal of chemoresistance in adrenocortical carcinoma cells via enforced silencing suggest a role for CYP2A6 in adrenocortical malignancy.