Transcriptomic Classification of Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors Causing Acromegaly

Acromegaly results from growth hormone hypersecretion, predominantly caused by a somatotroph pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET). Acromegaly-causing tumors are histologically diverse. Our aim was to determine transcriptomic profiles of various somatotroph PitNETs and to evaluate clinical implication of differential gene expression. A total of 48 tumors were subjected to RNA sequencing, while expression of selected genes was assessed in 134 tumors with qRT-PCR. Whole-transcriptome analysis revealed three transcriptomic groups of somatotroph PitNETs. They differ in expression of numerous genes including those involved in growth hormone secretion and known prognostic genes. Transcriptomic subgroups can be distinguished by determining the expression of marker genes. Analysis of the entire cohort of patients confirmed differences between molecular subtypes of tumors. Transcriptomic group 1 includes similar to 20% of acromegaly patients with GNAS mutations-negative, mainly densely granulated tumors that co-express GIPR and NR5A1 (SF-1). SF-1 expression was verified with immunohistochemistry. Transcriptomic group 2 tumors are the most common (46%) and include mainly GNAS-mutated, densely granulated somatotroph and mixed PitNETs. They have a smaller size and express favorable prognosis-related genes. Transcriptomic group 3 includes predominantly sparsely granulated somatotroph PitNETs with low GNAS mutations frequency causing similar to 35% of acromegaly. Ghrelin signaling is implicated in their pathogenesis. They have an unfavorable gene expression profile and higher invasive growth rate.

Automated summary

This study identified three transcriptomic groups of somatotroph PitNETs with different gene expression profiles and clinical implications. These subgroups show variations in growth hormone secretion, prognostic gene expression, and potential therapeutic targets.