Dual inhibition of SHP2 and autophagy suppresses NF1-associated Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are aggressive sarcomas and the primary cause of mortality in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). MPNSTs develop within pre-existing benign plexiform neurofibromas (PNs). PNs are driven solely by biallelic NF1 loss eliciting RAS pathway activation and respond favorably to MEK inhibitor therapy. Our analysis of genetically engineered and orthotopic patient-derived xenograft MPNST indicates that MEK inhibition has poor anti-tumor efficacy. By contrast, upstream inhibition of RAS through the protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 reduced downstream signaling and suppressed NF1 MPNST growth, although resistance eventually emerged. To investigate possible mechanisms of acquired resistance, kinomic analyses of resistant tumors was performed, and data analysis identified enrichment of activated autophagy pathway protein kinases. Combining pharmacological blockade of autophagy and SHP2 inhibition resulted in durable responses in NF1 MPNSTs in both genetic and orthotopic xenograft mouse models. Our studies can be rapidly translated into a clinical trial to evaluate SHP2 inhibition in conjunction with autophagy inhibitors as a novel treatment approach for NF1 MPNSTs. Statement of significanceCurrently, no effective therapies exist for MPNST. We demonstrate intrinsic MPNST resistance to MEKi monotherapy and identify SHP2 inhibition as an actionable vulnerability upstream of RAS. Furthermore, anti-tumor effects are extended and enhanced by dual exposure to autophagy pathway inhibition. Validation of these results as the most effective therapy to date in multiple genetically engineered models and in orthotopic patient-derived xenografts justify a clinical trial to evaluate SHP2i in conjunction with autophagy inhibitors as a novel treatment approach for NF1 MPNSTs.