Characterizing Hormone Secretion Patterns in PitNETs with Metabolomics: Implications for Understanding Tumor Biology

Abstract

Background Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are heterogeneous neoplasms originating from the pituitary gland. Metabolomics, a comprehensive analysis of small molecules, has emerged as a valuable tool for studying pituitary tumors. In the presen investigation, a metabolomic methodology was employed to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of tumor pathogenesis. Methods Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy was utilized to investigate the metabolic profiles of hypophyseal tissue samples obtained from 22 patients with PitNETs, who underwent excisional surgery and exhibited varying hormone secretion statuses. Results Using NMR analysis, we identified 10 metabolites with significant changes, including O-Phosphoethanolamine (PEA), myo-Inositol (I), choline, and several amino acids in tissue samples. In the non-functioning (NF) group, elevated levels of PEA, myo-I, Glycine, and Choline were observed, whereas Glutamate, Phenylalanine, Valine, Isoleucine, Tyrosine, and Methionine exhibited decreased levels in the same group. Phospholipid metabolism, inositol phosphate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are proposed as potential mechanisms underlying the secretory characteristics of tumor tissue. Conclusions Functioning and nonfunctioning PitNETs display distinct metabolic characteristics. Elevated PEA levels observed in the nonfunctioning group might have inhibited hormone synthesis by suppressing mitochondrial activity, which could potentially contribute to the development of tumors. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore their potential clinical applications, such as biomarker discovery and therapeutic targeting