bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from A Cryptic Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor T-Cell Epitope: Identification and Characterization by Mass Spectrometry and T-Cell Assays
Authors: Weinzierl Andreas O. , Maurer Dominik , Altenberend Florian , Schneiderhan-Marra Nicole , Klingel Karin , Schoor Oliver , Wernet Dorothee , Joos Thomas , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Stevanović Stefan
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is involved in various physiologic processes, such as angiogenesis or wound healing, but is also crucial in pathologic events, such as tumor growth. Thus, clinical anti-VEGF treatments have been developed that could already show beneficial effects for cancer patients. In this article, we describe the first VEGF-derived CD8+ T-cell epitope. The natural HLA ligand SRFGGAVVR was identified by differential mass spectrometry in two primary renal cell carcinomas (RCC) and was significantly overpresented on both tumor tissues. SRFGGAVVR is derived from a cryptic translated region of VEGF presumably by initiation of translation at the nonclassic start codon CUG499. SRFGGAVVR-specific T cells were generated in vitro using peptide-loaded dendritic cells or artificial antigen-presenting cells. SRFGGAVVR-specific CD8+ T cells, identified by HLA tetramer analysis after in vitro stimulation, were fully functional T effector cells, which were able to secrete IFN-γ on stimulation and killed tumor cells in vitro. Additionally, we have quantitatively analyzed VEGF mRNA and protein levels in RCC tumor and normal tissue samples by gene chip analysis, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, in situ hybridization, and bead-based immunoassay. In the future, T cells directed against VEGF as a tumor-associated antigen may represent a possible way of combining peptide-based anti-VEGF immunotherapy with already existent anti-VEGF cancer therapies. [Cancer Res 2008;68(7):2447–54]
Data from Extracellular Redox State Regulates Features Associated with Prostate Cancer Cell Invasion
Authors: Chaiswing Luksana , Zhong Weixiong , Cullen Joseph J. , Oberley Larry W. , Oberley Terry D.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
We have examined the possible role of extracellular reduction-oxidation (redox) state in regulation of biological/biochemical features associated with prostate cancer cell invasion. DU145, PC-3, and RWPE1-derived human prostate cancer (WPE1-NB26) cell lines were used for the present in vitro analysis. Increasing levels of nitric oxide using S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine resulted in a decrease in cell invasion ability, whereas increasing levels of extracellular superoxide radical (O2•−) using xanthine/xanthine oxidase resulted in an increase in cell invasion ability in these three cell lines. WPE1-NB26 cells exhibited an increased glutathione/glutathione disulfide ratio in the medium in comparison with RWPE1 cells (immortalized but nonmalignant prostate epithelial cells), suggesting an alteration of extracellular redox state of WPE1-NB26 cells. We hypothesized that O2•− production at or near the plasma membrane or in the adjacent extracellular matrix at least partially regulated prostate cancer cell invasion. Using adenovirus-mediated extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) gene transduction to enzymatically decrease O2•− levels, we showed that in the presence of heparin, adenovirus EC-SOD gene transduction resulted in an increase in the expression of EC-SOD outside the cells with resultant inhibition of cell invasion ability. This inhibition correlated with reduced metalloproteinase [matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2/membrane type 1-MMP] activities and increased levels of extracellular nitrite. Our results suggest a prominent role of extracellular redox status in regulation of cell invasion, which may provide opportunities for therapeutic interventions. [Cancer Res 2008;68(14):5820–6]
Data from Identification of Pbx1, a Potential Oncogene, as a Notch3 Target Gene in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Park Joon T. , Shih Ie-Ming , Wang Tian-Li
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Notch3 gene amplification has recently been identified in ovarian cancer but the Notch3 effectors that are involved in the development of ovarian cancer remain elusive. In this study, we have identified Pbx1, a proto-oncogene in hematopoietic malignancy, as a Notch3 target gene. Pbx1 expression is transcriptionally regulated by Notch3 activation, and Notch3/CSL protein complex directly binds to the Pbx1 promoter segment harboring the CSL-binding sequence. The growth-inhibitory effect of γ-secretase inhibitor could be partially reversed by ectopic Pbx1 expression. Furthermore, functional studies by Pbx1 short hairpin RNA knockdown show that Pbx1 is essential for cell proliferation and tumorigenicity. Taken together, the above findings indicate that Pbx1 is a direct Notch3-regulated gene that mediates the survival signal of Notch3 in ovarian cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(21):8852–60]
Data from Functional Genomics Identifies ABCC3 as a Mediator of Taxane Resistance in HER2-Amplified Breast Cancer
Authors: O'Brien Carol , Cavet Guy , Pandita Ajay , Hu Xiaolan , Haydu Lauren , Mohan Sankar , Toy Karen , Rivers Celina Sanchez , Modrusan Zora , Amler Lukas C. , Lackner Mark R.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with distinct molecular subtypes characterized by differential response to targeted and chemotherapeutic agents. Enhanced understanding of the genetic alterations characteristic of different subtypes is needed to pave the way for more personalized administration of therapeutic agents. We have taken a functional genomics approach using a well-characterized panel of breast cancer cell lines to identify putative biomarkers of resistance to antimitotic agents such as paclitaxel and monomethyl-auristatin-E (MMAE). In vitro studies revealed a striking difference in sensitivity to these agents between cell lines from different subtypes, with basal-like cell lines being significantly more sensitive to both agents than luminal or HER2-amplified cell lines. Genome-wide association studies using copy number data from Affymetrix single nucleotide polymorphism arrays identified amplification of the chromosome 17q21 region as being highly associated with resistance to both paclitaxel and MMAE. An unbiased approach consisting of RNA interference and high content analysis was used to show that amplification and concomitant overexpression of the gene encoding the ABCC3 drug transporter is responsible for conferring in vitro resistance to paclitaxel and MMAE. We also show that amplification of ABCC3 is present in primary breast tumors and that it occurs predominantly in HER2-amplified and luminal tumors, and we report on development of a specific fluorescence in situ hybridization assay that may have utility as a predictive biomarker of taxane resistance in breast cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(13):5380–9]
Data from Retinoblastoma Function Is Essential for Establishing Lung Epithelial Quiescence after Injury
Authors: Mason-Richie Nicole A. , Mistry Meenakshi J. , Gettler Caitlin A. , Elayyadi Asmaa , Wikenheiser-Brokamp Kathryn A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The retinoblastoma gene product (RB) regulates cell cycle, quiescence, and survival in a cell type–dependent and environment-dependent manner. RB function is critical in the pulmonary epithelium, as evidenced by nearly universal RB inactivation in lung cancer and increased lung cancer risk in persons with germline RB gene mutations. Lung carcinomas occur in the context of epithelial remodeling induced by cytotoxic damage. Whereas the role of RB in development and normal organ homeostasis has been extensively studied, RB function in the context of cellular injury and repair has remained largely unexplored. In the current studies, the RB gene was selectively deleted in the respiratory epithelium of the mouse. Although RB was not required for establishing or maintaining quiescence during lung homeostasis, RB was essential for establishing quiescence during epithelial repair after injury. Notably, aberrant cell cycle progression was sustained for 9 months after injury in RB-deficient lungs. Prenatal and postnatal RB ablation had similar effects, providing evidence that timing of RB loss was not critical to the outcome and that the injury-induced phenotype was not secondary to compensatory alterations occurring during development. These data show that RB is essential for repair of the respiratory epithelium after cytotoxic damage and support a critical unique role for RB in the context of epithelial remodeling after injury. Because human cancers are associated with chronic cellular damage, these findings have important new implications for RB-mediated tumor suppression. [Cancer Res 2008;68(11):4068–76]
Data from Single-Cell Transcription Site Activation Predicts Chemotherapy Response in Human Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Pezo Rossanna C. , Gandhi Saumil J. , Shirley L. Andrew , Pestell Richard G. , Augenlicht Leonard H. , Singer Robert H.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Candidate gene and pathway approaches, and unbiased gene expression profiling, have identified marker signatures predictive of tumor phenotypes, such as drug sensitivity and invasive or metastatic potential. However, application of such information to evaluation of tumors in the clinic is limited by cell heterogeneity in the tumor. We have developed a novel method of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) that can detect transcriptional activation of individual genes at their site in single cells in the interphase nucleus. A major obstacle in the treatment of colorectal cancer is relative insensitivity to the chemotherapeutic agent 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Here, we have developed a sensitive approach to predict relative sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to 5-FU, using FISH with probes targeted to nascent mRNAs to measure the number of individual cells with active transcription sites for a panel of candidate genes. These results reveal that the transcriptional status of four key genes, thymidylate synthase (TYMS), MORF-related gene X (MRGX), Bcl2-antagonist/killer (BAK), and ATPase, Cu2+ transporting β polypeptide (ATP7B), can accurately predict response to 5-FU. As proof of principle, we show that this transcriptional profile is predictive of response to 5-FU in a small number of patient colon tumor tissues. This approach provides a novel ability to identify and characterize unique minor cell populations in the tumor that may exhibit relative resistance to chemotherapy. [Cancer Res 2008;68(13):4977–82]
Data from Impact of Common Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and HER2 Variants on Receptor Activity and Inhibition by Lapatinib
Authors: Gilmer Tona M. , Cable Louann , Alligood Krystal , Rusnak David , Spehar Glenn , Gallagher Kathleen T. , Woldu Ermias , Carter H. Luke , Truesdale Anne T. , Shewchuk Lisa , Wood Edgar R.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The goal of this study was to characterize the effects of non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC)-associated mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1) and HER2 (ErbB2) on interactions with the dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib. Biochemical studies show that commonly observed variants of EGFR [G719C, G719S, L858R, L861Q, and Δ746–750 (del15)] are enzyme activating, increasing the tyrosine kinase Vmax and increasing the Km(app) for ATP. The point mutations G719C and L861Q had minor effects on lapatinib Kis, whereas EGFR mutations L858R and del15 had a higher Ki for lapatinib than wild-type EGFR. Structural analysis of wild-type EGFR-lapatinib complexes and modeling of the EGFR mutants were consistent with these data, suggesting that loss of structural flexibility and possible stabilization of the active-like conformation could interfere with lapatinib binding, particularly to the EGFR deletion mutants. Furthermore, EGFR deletion mutants were relatively resistant to lapatinib-mediated inhibition of receptor autophosphorylation in recombinant cells expressing the variants, whereas EGFR point mutations had a modest or no effect. Of note, EGFR T790M, a receptor variant found in patients with gefitinib-resistant NSCLC, was also resistant to lapatinib-mediated inhibition of receptor autophosphorylation. Two HER2 insertional variants found in NSCLC were less sensitive to lapatinib inhibition than two HER2 point mutants. The effects of lapatinib on the proliferation of human NSCLC tumor cell lines expressing wild-type or variant EGFR and HER2 cannot be explained solely on the basis of the biochemical activity or receptor autophosphorylation in recombinant cells. These data suggest that cell line genetic heterogeneity and/or multiple determinants modulate the role played by EGFR/HER2 in regulating cell proliferation. [Cancer Res 2008;68(2):571–9]
Data from Chromosomal Breakpoints in Primary Colon Cancer Cluster at Sites of Structural Variants in the Genome
Authors: Camps Jordi , Grade Marian , Nguyen Quang Tri , Hörmann Patrick , Becker Sandra , Hummon Amanda B. , Rodriguez Virginia , Chandrasekharappa Settara , Chen Yidong , Difilippantonio Michael J. , Becker Heinz , Ghadimi B. Michael , Ried Thomas
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Genomic aberrations on chromosome 8 are common in colon cancer, and are associated with lymph node and distant metastases as well as with disease susceptibility. This prompted us to generate a high-resolution map of genomic imbalances of chromosome 8 in 51 primary colon carcinomas using a custom-designed genomic array consisting of a tiling path of BAC clones. This analysis confirmed the dominant role of this chromosome. Unexpectedly, the position of the breakpoints suggested colocalization with structural variants in the human genome. In order to map these sites with increased resolution and to extend the analysis to the entire genome, we analyzed a subset of these tumors (n = 32) by comparative genomic hybridization on a 185K oligonucleotide array platform. Our comprehensive map of the colon cancer genome confirmed recurrent and specific low-level copy number changes of chromosomes 7, 8, 13, 18, and 20, and unveiled additional, novel sites of genomic imbalances including amplification of a histone gene cluster on chromosome 6p21.1-21.33 and deletions on chromosome 4q34-35. The systematic comparison of segments of copy number change with gene expression profiles showed that genomic imbalances directly affect average expression levels. Strikingly, we observed a significant association of chromosomal breakpoints with structural variants in the human genome: 41% of all copy number changes occurred at sites of such copy number variants (P < 2.2e−16). Such an association has not been previously described and reveals a yet underappreciated plasticity of the colon cancer genome; it also points to potential mechanisms for the induction of chromosomal breakage in cancer cells. [Cancer Res 2008;68(5):1284–95]
Data from IFN-α and Bortezomib Overcome Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 Overexpression in Melanoma Cells by Stimulating the Extrinsic Pathway of Apoptosis
Authors: Lesinski Gregory B. , Raig Ene T. , Guenterberg Kristan , Brown Lloyd , Go Michael R. , Shah Nisha N. , Lewis Adrian , Quimper Megan , Hade Erinn , Young Gregory , Chaudhury Abhik Ray , Ladner Katherine J. , Guttridge Denis C. , Bouchard Page , Carson William E.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
We hypothesized that IFN-α would enhance the apoptotic activity of bortezomib on melanoma cells. Combined treatment with bortezomib and IFN-α induced synergistic apoptosis in melanoma and other solid tumor cell lines. Apoptosis was associated with processing of procaspase-3, procaspase-7, procaspase-8, and procaspase-9 and with cleavage of Bid and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. Bortezomib plus IFN-α was effective at inducing apoptosis in melanoma cells that overexpressed Bcl-2 or Mcl-1, suggesting that this treatment combination can overcome mitochondrial pathways of cell survival and resistance to apoptosis. The proapoptotic effects of this treatment combination were abrogated by a caspase-8 inhibitor, led to increased association of Fas and FADD before the onset of cell death, and were significantly reduced in cells transfected with a dominant-negative FADD construct or small interfering RNA targeting Fas. These data suggest that bortezomib and IFN-α act through the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis via FADD-induced caspase-8 activation to initiate cell death. Finally, bortezomib and IFN-α displayed statistically significant antitumor activity compared with either agent alone in both the B16 murine model of melanoma and in athymic mice bearing human A375 xenografts. These data support the future clinical development of bortezomib and IFN-α for malignant melanoma. [Cancer Res 2008;68(20):8351–60]
Data from Expression of HER2 and Estrogen Receptor α Depends upon Nuclear Localization of Y-Box Binding Protein-1 in Human Breast Cancers
Authors: Fujii Teruhiko , Kawahara Akihiko , Basaki Yuji , Hattori Satoshi , Nakashima Kazutaka , Nakano Kenji , Shirouzu Kazuo , Kohno Kimitoshi , Yanagawa Takashi , Yamana Hideaki , Nishio Kazuto , Ono Mayumi , Kuwano Michihiko , Kage Masayoshi
Published: March 2023

Abstract
In our present study, we examined whether nuclear localization of Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1) is associated with the expression of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR), hormone receptors, and other molecules affecting breast cancer prognosis. The expression of nuclear YB-1, clinicopathologic findings, and molecular markers [EGFR, HER2, estrogen receptor (ER)α, ERβ, progesterone receptor, chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), phosphorylated Akt, and major vault protein/lung resistance protein] were immunohistochemically analyzed. The association of the expression of nuclear YB-1 and the molecular markers was examined in breast cancer cell lines using microarrays, quantitative real-time PCR, and Western blot analyses. Knockdown of YB-1 with siRNA significantly reduced EGFR, HER2, and ERα expression in ERα-positive, but not ERα-negative, breast cancer cell lines. Nuclear YB-1 expression was positively correlated with HER2 (P = 0.0153) and negatively correlated with ERα (P = 0.0122) and CXCR4 (P = 0.0166) in human breast cancer clinical specimens but was not correlated with EGFR expression. Nuclear YB-1 expression was an independent prognostic factor for overall (P = 0.0139) and progression-free (P = 0.0280) survival. In conclusion, nuclear YB-1 expression might be essential for the acquisition of malignant characteristics via HER2-Akt–dependent pathways in breast cancer patients. The nuclear localization of YB-1 could be an important therapeutic target against not only multidrug resistance but also tumor growth dependent on HER2 and ERα. [Cancer Res 2008;68(5):1504–12]
Data from Defective Transcription/Repair Factor IIH Recruitment to Specific UV Lesions in Trichothiodystrophy Syndrome
Authors: Chiganças Vanessa , Lima-Bessa Keronninn M. , Stary Anne , Menck Carlos F.M. , Sarasin Alain
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Most trichothiodystrophy (TTD) patients present mutations in the xeroderma pigmentosum D (XPD) gene, coding for a subunit of the transcription/repair factor IIH (TFIIH) complex involved in nucleotide excision repair (NER) and transcription. After UV irradiation, most TTD/XPD patients are more severely affected in the NER of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) than of 6-4-photoproducts (6-4PP). The reasons for this differential DNA repair defect are unknown. Here we report the first study of NER in response to CPDs or 6-4PPs separately analyzed in primary fibroblasts. This was done by using heterologous photorepair; recombinant adenovirus vectors carrying photolyases enzymes that repair CPD or 6-4PP specifically by using the energy of light were introduced in different cell lines. The data presented here reveal that some TTD/XPD mutations affect the recruitment of TFIIH specifically to CPDs, but not to 6-4PPs. This deficiency is further confirmed by the inability of TTD/XPD cells to recruit, specifically for CPDs, NER factors that arrive in a TFIIH-dependent manner later in the NER pathway. For 6-4PPs, we show that TFIIH complexes carrying an NH2-terminal XPD mutated protein are also deficient in recruitment of NER proteins downstream of TFIIH. Treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A allows the recovery of TFIIH recruitment to CPDs in the studied TTD cells and, for COOH-terminal XPD mutations, increases the repair synthesis and survival after UV, suggesting that this defect can be partially related with accessibility of DNA damage in closed chromatin regions. [Cancer Res 2008;68(15):6074–83]
Data from Berberine Modifies Cysteine 179 of IκBα Kinase, Suppresses Nuclear Factor-κB–Regulated Antiapoptotic Gene Products, and Potentiates Apoptosis
Authors: Pandey Manoj K. , Sung Bokyung , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B. , Sethi Gautam , Chaturvedi Madan M. , Aggarwal Bharat B.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid derived from a plant used traditionally in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, has been reported to exhibit chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory activities through unknown mechanism. Because of the critical role of the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in these processes, we investigated the effect of berberine on this pathway. We found that berberine suppressed NF-κB activation induced by various inflammatory agents and carcinogens. This alkaloid also suppressed constitutive NF-κB activation found in certain tumor cells. Suppression of NF-κB activation occurred through the inhibition of phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα by the inhibition of IκB kinase (IKK) activation, leading to suppression of phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of p65, and finally to inhibition of NF-κB reporter activity. Inhibition of IKK by berbeine was direct and could be reversed by reducing agents. Site-specific mutagenesis suggested the involvement of cysteine residue 179 in IKK. Berberine also suppressed the expression of NF-κB–regulated gene products involved in antiapoptosis (Bcl-xL, Survivin, IAP1, IAP2, and cFLIP), proliferation (cyclin D1), inflammation (cyclooxygenase-2), and invasion (matrix metalloproteinase-9). Suppression of antiapoptotic gene products correlated with enhancement of apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and chemotherapeutic agents and with inhibition of TNF-induced cellular invasion. Overall, our results indicate that chemopreventive, apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities displayed by berberine may be mediated in part through the suppression of the NF-κB activation pathway. This may provide the molecular basis for the ability of berberine to act as an anticancer and anti-inflammatory agent. [Cancer Res 2008;68(13):5370–9]
Data from Tumor Immunobiological Differences in Prostate Cancer between African-American and European-American Men
Authors: Wallace Tiffany A. , Prueitt Robyn L. , Yi Ming , Howe Tiffany M. , Gillespie John W. , Yfantis Harris G. , Stephens Robert M. , Caporaso Neil E. , Loffredo Christopher A. , Ambs Stefan
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The incidence and mortality rates of prostate cancer are significantly higher in African-American men when compared with European-American men. We tested the hypothesis that differences in tumor biology contribute to this survival health disparity. Using microarray technology, we obtained gene expression profiles of primary prostate tumors resected from 33 African-American and 36 European-American patients. These tumors were matched on clinical variables. We also evaluated 18 nontumor prostate tissues from seven African-American and 11 European-American patients. The resulting datasets were analyzed for expression differences on the gene and pathway level comparing African-American with European-American patients. Our analysis revealed a significant number of genes, e.g., 162 transcripts at a false-discovery rate of ≤5% to be differently expressed between African-American and European-American patients. Using a disease association analysis, we identified a common relationship of these transcripts with autoimmunity and inflammation. These findings were corroborated on the pathway level with numerous differently expressed genes clustering in immune response, stress response, cytokine signaling, and chemotaxis pathways. Several known metastasis-promoting genes, including autocrine mobility factor receptor, chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4, and matrix metalloproteinase 9, were more highly expressed in tumors from African-Americans than European-Americans. Furthermore, a two-gene tumor signature that accurately differentiated between African-American and European-American patients was identified. This finding was confirmed in a blinded analysis of a second sample set. In conclusion, the gene expression profiles of prostate tumors indicate prominent differences in tumor immunobiology between African-American and European-American men. The profiles portray the existence of a distinct tumor microenvironment in these two patient groups. [Cancer Res 2008;68(3):927–36]
Data from Ability of Mature Dendritic Cells to Interact with Regulatory T Cells Is Imprinted during Maturation
Authors: Muthuswamy Ravikumar , Urban Julie , Lee Je-Jung , Reinhart Todd A. , Bartlett David , Kalinski Pawel
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Preferential activation of regulatory T (Treg) cells limits autoimmune tissue damage during chronic immune responses but can also facilitate tumor growth. Here, we show that tissue-produced inflammatory mediators prime maturing dendritic cells (DC) for the differential ability of attracting anti-inflammatory Treg cells. Our data show that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a factor overproduced in chronic inflammation and cancer, induces stable Treg-attracting properties in maturing DC, mediated by CCL22. The elevated production of CCL22 by PGE2-matured DC persists after the removal of PGE2 and is further elevated after secondary stimulation of DC in a neutral environment. This PGE2-induced overproduction of CCL22 and the resulting attraction of FOXP3+ Tregs are counteracted by IFNα, a mediator of acute inflammation, which also restores the ability of the PGE2-exposed DC to secrete the Th1-attracting chemokines: CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and CCL5. In accordance with these observations, different DCs clinically used as cancer vaccines show different Treg-recruiting abilities, with PGE2-matured DC, but not type 1–polarized DC, generated in the presence of type I and type II IFNs, showing high Treg-attracting activity. The current data, showing that the ability of mature DC to interact with Treg cells is predetermined at the stage of DC maturation, pave the way to preferentially target the regulatory versus proinflammatory T cells in autoimmunity and transplantation, as opposed to intracellular infections and cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(14):5972–8]
Data from Nkx3-1 and LEF-1 Function as Transcriptional Inhibitors of Estrogen Receptor Activity
Authors: Holmes Kelly A. , Song Jun S. , Liu Xiaole S. , Brown Myles , Carroll Jason S.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER)-associated cofactors and cooperating transcription factors are one of the primary components determining transcriptional activity of estrogen target genes and may constitute potential therapeutic targets. Recent mapping of ER-binding sites on a genome-wide scale has provided insight into novel cooperating factors based on the enrichment of transcription factor motifs within the ER-binding sites. We have used the ER-binding sites in combination with sequence conservation to identify the statistical enrichment of Nkx and LEF motifs. We find that Nkx3-1 and LEF-1 bind to several ER cis-regulatory elements in vivo, but they both function as transcriptional repressors of estrogen signaling. We show that Nkx3-1 and LEF-1 can inhibit ER binding to chromatin, suggesting competition for common chromatin-binding regions. These data provide insight into the role of Nkx3-1 and LEF-1 as potential regulators of the hormone response in breast cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(18):7380–5]
Data from Androgen Receptor and Invasion in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hara Takahito , Miyazaki Hideyo , Lee Aram , Tran Chau P. , Reiter Robert E.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Activation of androgen receptor (AR) stimulates the growth of not only androgen-dependent but also of androgen-refractory prostate cancer. However, neither the role of AR in invasion/metastasis nor the relationship between invasiveness and androgen-refractory status has been established. In this study, we used the androgen-dependent prostate cancer cell line MDA PCa 2b, derived from a human bone metastasis, to generate an invasive subline (MDA-I) using a Matrigel chamber. MDA-I cells expressed higher levels of AR and prostate-specific antigen than their less invasive parental cells. Blocking AR function or removal of androgen suppressed the invasion of MDA-I cells, whereas stimulating AR increased invasion. In addition, forced AR overexpression increased the invasiveness of MDA PCa 2b cells. Next, we showed that an androgen-refractory subline (MDA-hr) of MDA PCa 2b cells also expressed higher levels of AR and were more invasive than their parental androgen-dependent cells. Blocking AR function suppressed the invasiveness of MDA-hr cells. Gelatin zymography indicated that matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 activities were regulated by AR signaling and closely correlated with the invasiveness of the androgen-dependent and androgen-refractory prostate cancer cells. These data suggest that AR promotes the invasiveness of both androgen-dependent and androgen-refractory prostate cancer and that a more invasive phenotype might develop through AR activation during cancer progression. These findings potentially support the use of adjuvant hormonal therapy and the future development of more potent androgen blockade therapy. [Cancer Res 2008;68(4):1128–35]
Data from EphA2 Is an Essential Mediator of UV Radiation–Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Guoqi , Njauw Ching-Ni , Park Jong Min , Naruse Chie , Asano Masahide , Tsao Hensin
Published: March 2023

Abstract
One of the physiologic consequences of excessive UV radiation (UVR) exposure is apoptosis. This critical response serves to eliminate genetically injured cells and arises, in part, from activation of DNA damage and p53 signaling. Other contributory pathways, however, likely exist but have not been fully characterized. In a recent global screen of UVR response genes in melanocytes, we identified the receptor tyrosine kinase EPHA2. Using a combination of genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we set out to investigate the upstream regulation of EphA2 by UVR and the functional consequences of this effect. We found that the UVR-associated increase in EphA2 occurs in melanocytes, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts from both human and murine sources. More specifically, UVR effectively up-regulated EphA2 individually in p53-null, p63-null, and p73-null murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEF), suggesting that the p53 family of transcription factors is not essential for the observed effect. However, inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling by U0126 and PD98059 significantly reduced the UVR response whereas overexpression of oncogenic NRAS led to an increase in EphA2. These results confirm that UVR induces EphA2 by a p53-independent, but MAPK-dependent, mechanism. In response to UV irradiation, Epha2−/− MEFs were highly resistant to UVR-mediated cytotoxicity and apoptosis whereas introduction of EphA2 into both wild-type and p53-null MEFs led to activation of an apoptotic program that can be blocked by caspase-8 inhibition. These functional findings suggest that EphA2 is in fact an essential p53-independent, caspase-8–dependent proapoptotic factor induced by UVR. [Cancer Res 2008;68(6):1691–6]
Data from Differential Cellular Internalization of Anti-CD19 and -CD22 Immunotoxins Results in Different Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Du Xing , Beers Richard , FitzGerald David J. , Pastan Ira
Published: March 2023

Abstract
B-cell malignancies routinely express surface antigens CD19 and CD22. Immunotoxins against both antigens have been evaluated, and the immunotoxins targeting CD22 are more active. To understand this disparity in cytotoxicity and guide the screening of therapeutic targets, we compared two immunotoxins, FMC63(Fv)-PE38–targeting CD19 and RFB4(Fv)-PE38 (BL22)–targeting CD22. Six lymphoma cell lines have 4- to 9-fold more binding sites per cell for CD19 than for CD22, but BL22 is 4- to 140-fold more active than FMC63(Fv)-PE38, although they have a similar cell binding affinity (Kd, ∼7 nmol/L). In 1 hour, large amounts of BL22 are internalized (2- to 3-fold more than the number of CD22 molecules on the cell surface), whereas only 5.2% to 16.6% of surface-bound FMC63(Fv)-PE38 is internalized. The intracellular reservoir of CD22 decreases greatly after immunotoxin internalization, indicating that it contributes to the uptake of BL22. Treatment of cells with cycloheximide does not reduce the internalization of BL22. Both internalized immunotoxins are located in the same vesicles. Our results show that the rapid internalization of large amounts of BL22 bound to CD22 makes CD22 a better therapeutic target than CD19 for immunotoxins and probably for other immunoconjugates that act inside cells. [Cancer Res 2008;68(15):6300–5]
Data from Deletion of Yin Yang 1 Protein in Osteosarcoma Cells on Cell Invasion and CXCR4/Angiogenesis and Metastasis
Authors: de Nigris Filomena , Rossiello Raffaele , Schiano Concetta , Arra Claudio , Williams-Ignarro Sharon , Barbieri Antonio , Lanza Alessandro , Balestrieri Antonio , Giuliano Maria Teresa , Ignarro Louis J. , Napoli Claudio
Published: March 2023

Abstract
We know that the Yin Yang 1 protein (YY1) overexpression is positively and strongly correlated with the degree of malignancy of bone tumors. Therefore, we questioned whether we could influence cell invasiveness by deleting YY1 in human osteosarcoma cells (SaOs-2), as tested in Matrigel-coated filters and metastasis implantation of such osteosarcoma cells in vivo, by serial analysis with nuclear magnetic resonance. Moreover, we focused our work on the chemokine receptor CXCR4 and its inhibition by T22 antibody, as well as on systemic (direct in vivo assay) and computer-assisted imaging of angiogenesis-related metastasis. Results showed that cell invasiveness and metastasis implantation by wild-type SaOs-2 cells, as evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry, are associated with up-regulation of CXCR4 expression, which in turn was significantly reduced by T22. In addition, deletion of YY1 (siRNAYY1-SaOs-2) induced a significant decrease of cell invasion and metastasis growth. This phenomenon was associated with decreased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/angiogenesis and a complex rearrangement of the gene expression profile as evaluated by microarray analysis. In conclusion, YY1 and VEGF/CXCR4 seem to intervene in the pathogenesis of the malignant phenotype of osteosarcoma by acting on cell invasiveness and metastasis growth. [Cancer Res 2008;68(6):1797–808]
Data from The Ret Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Pathway Functionally Interacts with the ERα Pathway in Breast Cancer
Authors: Boulay Anne , Breuleux Madlaina , Stephan Christine , Fux Caroline , Brisken Cathrin , Fiche Maryse , Wartmann Markus , Stumm Michael , Lane Heidi A. , Hynes Nancy E.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
A limited number of receptor tyrosine kinases (e.g., ErbB and fibroblast growth factor receptor families) have been genetically linked to breast cancer development. Here, we investigated the contribution of the Ret receptor tyrosine kinase to breast tumor biology. Ret was expressed in primary breast tumors and cell lines. In estrogen receptor (ER)α-positive MCF7 and T47D lines, the ligand (glial-derived neurotrophic factor) activated signaling pathways and increased anchorage-independent proliferation in a Ret-dependent manner, showing that Ret signaling is functional in breast tumor cells. Ret expression was induced by estrogens and Ret signaling enhanced estrogen-driven proliferation, highlighting the functional interaction of Ret and ER pathways. Furthermore, Ret was detected in primary cancers, and there were higher Ret levels in ERα-positive tumors. In summary, we showed that Ret is a novel proliferative pathway interacting with ER signaling in vitro. Expression of Ret in primary breast tumors suggests that Ret might be a novel therapeutic target in breast cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(10):3743–51]
Data from A Role for the Cyclin Box in the Ubiquitin-Mediated Degradation of Cyclin G1
Authors: Piscopo Denise M. , Hinds Philip W.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Cyclin G1 was identified as a transcriptional target of p53 that encodes a protein with strong homology to the cyclin family of cell cycle regulators. We show that either ectopically expressed or endogenous cyclin G1 protein is very unstable, undergoes modification with ubiquitin, and is likely degraded by the proteasome. Ectopic cyclin G1 protein stability is increased by cyclin box mutation or by association with inactive cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) subunits, suggesting that a function of cyclin G1 as a CDK regulator may be required for its rapid turnover. Furthermore, cyclin G1 and the cyclin box mutant interact with and are ubiquitinated by MDM2, another transcriptional target of p53 that acts as a negative regulator of p53 stability. These data suggest that the cyclin box has a role in the proteasome-mediated degradation of cyclin G1 and thus suggest a putative role for a CDK in cyclin G1 metabolism and function. [Cancer Res 2008;68(14):5581–90]
Data from Macrophage Inflammatory Protein–1δ: A Novel Osteoclast Stimulating Factor Secreted by Renal Cell Carcinoma Bone Metastasis
Authors: Kominsky Scott L. , Abdelmagid Samir M. , Doucet Michele , Brady Kelly , Weber Kristy L.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Approximately 30% of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) develop bone metastasis, which is characterized by extensive osteolysis leading to severe bone pain and pathologic fracture. Although the mechanism of RCC-induced osteolysis is unknown, studies of bone metastasis have shown that tumor-induced changes in bone remodeling are likely mediated by alterations in the bone microenvironment. Here, we report the discovery of a novel osteoclast stimulatory factor secreted by RCC bone metastasis (RBM). Through microarray analysis, we found expression of the chemokine, macrophage inflammatory protein-1δ (MIP-1δ), to be increased in RBM versus patient-matched primary RCC tissues and confirmed this finding by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) and ELISA (P < 0.05). Furthermore, MIP-1δ expression in RBM tissues was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than in human bone marrow, suggesting a potential alteration of the bone microenvironment. The receptors for MIP-1δ, CCR1 and CCR3, were expressed in both osteoclast precursors and mature, bone-resorbing osteoclasts as shown by qRT-PCR and Western analysis. In functional studies, MIP-1δ stimulated chemotaxis of two osteoclast precursor cell types: murine bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNC) and RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, MIP-1δ treatment of murine calvaria caused increased bone resorption as determined by measurement of released calcium. Correspondingly, MIP-1δ significantly enhanced osteoclast formation and activity in response to RANKL in both BM-MNC and RAW 264.7 cells. Taken together, these data suggest that MIP-1δ expression is increased in RBM relative to RCC and bone marrow, and may promote RBM-induced osteolysis by stimulating the recruitment and differentiation of osteoclast precursors into mature osteoclasts. [Cancer Res 2008;68(5):1261–6]
Data from Blocked Autophagy Sensitizes Resistant Carcinoma Cells to Radiation Therapy
Authors: Apel Anja , Herr Ingrid , Schwarz Heinz , Rodemann H. Peter , Mayer Andreas
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Autophagy or “self eating” is frequently activated in tumor cells treated with chemotherapy or irradiation. Whether autophagy represents a survival mechanism or rather contributes to cell death remains controversial. To address this issue, the role of autophagy in radiosensitive and radioresistant human cancer cell lines in response to γ-irradiation was examined. We found irradiation-induced accumulation of autophagosomes accompanied by strong mRNA induction of the autophagy-related genes beclin 1, atg3, atg4b, atg4c, atg5, and atg12 in each cell line. Transduction of specific target-siRNAs led to down-regulation of these genes for up to 8 days as shown by reverse transcription-PCR and Western blot analysis. Blockade of each autophagy-related gene was associated with strongly diminished accumulation of autophagosomes after irradiation. As shown by clonogenic survival, the majority of inhibited autophagy-related genes, each alone or combined, resulted in sensitization of resistant carcinoma cells to radiation, whereas untreated resistant cells but not sensitive cells survived better when autophagy was inhibited. Similarly, radiosensitization or the opposite was observed in different sensitive carcinoma cells and upon inhibition of different autophagy genes. Mutant p53 had no effect on accumulation of autophagosomes but slightly increased clonogenic survival, as expected, because mutated p53 protects cells by conferring resistance to apoptosis. In our system, short-time inhibition of autophagy along with radiotherapy lead to enhanced cytotoxicity of radiotherapy in resistant cancer cells. [Cancer Res 2008;68(5):1485–94]
Data from Identification of Novel Isoforms of the EML4-ALK Transforming Gene in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Choi Young Lim , Takeuchi Kengo , Soda Manabu , Inamura Kentaro , Togashi Yuki , Hatano Satoko , Enomoto Munehiro , Hamada Toru , Haruta Hidenori , Watanabe Hideki , Kurashina Kentaro , Hatanaka Hisashi , Ueno Toshihide , Takada Shuji , Yamashita Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Yukihiko , Ishikawa Yuichi , Mano Hiroyuki
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The genome of a subset of non–small-cell lung cancers (NSCLC) harbors a small inversion within chromosome 2 that gives rise to a transforming fusion gene, EML4-ALK, which encodes an activated protein tyrosine kinase. Although breakpoints within EML4 have been identified in introns 13 and 20, giving rise to variants 1 and 2, respectively, of EML4-ALK, it has remained unclear whether other isoforms of the fusion gene are present in NSCLC cells. We have now screened NSCLC specimens for other in-frame fusion cDNAs that contain both EML4 and ALK sequences. Two slightly different fusion cDNAs in which exon 6 of EML4 was joined to exon 20 of ALK were each identified in two individuals of the cohort. Whereas one cDNA contained only exons 1 to 6 of EML4 (variant 3a), the other also contained an additional 33-bp sequence derived from intron 6 of EML4 (variant 3b). The protein encoded by the latter cDNA thus contained an insertion of 11 amino acids between the EML4 and ALK sequences of that encoded by the former. Both variants 3a and 3b of EML4-ALK exhibited marked transforming activity in vitro as well as oncogenic activity in vivo. A lung cancer cell line expressing endogenous variant 3 of EML4-ALK underwent cell death on exposure to a specific inhibitor of ALK catalytic activity. These data increase the frequency of EML4-ALK–positive NSCLC tumors and bolster the clinical relevance of this oncogenic kinase. [Cancer Res 2008;68(13):4971–6]
Data from Inhibition of Metastatic Outgrowth from Single Dormant Tumor Cells by Targeting the Cytoskeleton
Authors: Barkan Dalit , Kleinman Hynda , Simmons Justin L. , Asmussen Holly , Kamaraju Anil K. , Hoenorhoff Mark J. , Liu Zi-yao , Costes Sylvain V. , Cho Edward H. , Lockett Stephen , Khanna Chand , Chambers Ann F. , Green Jeffrey E.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer may emerge from latent tumor cells that remain dormant at disseminated sites for many years. Identifying mechanisms regulating the switch from dormancy to proliferative metastatic growth has been elusive due to the lack of experimental models of tumor cell dormancy. We characterized the in vitro growth characteristics of cells that exhibit either dormant (D2.0R, MCF-7, and K7M2AS1.46) or proliferative (D2A1, MDA-MB-231, and K7M2) metastatic behavior in vivo. Although these cells proliferate readily in two-dimensional culture, we show that when grown in three-dimensional matrix, distinct growth properties of the cells were revealed that correlate to their dormant or proliferative behavior at metastatic sites in vivo. In three-dimensional culture, cells with dormant behavior in vivo remained cell cycle arrested with elevated nuclear expression of p16 and p27. The transition from quiescence to proliferation of D2A1 cells was dependent on fibronectin production and signaling through integrin β1, leading to cytoskeletal reorganization with filamentous actin (F-actin) stress fiber formation. We show that phosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC) by MLC kinase (MLCK) through integrin β1 is required for actin stress fiber formation and proliferative growth. Inhibition of integrin β1 or MLCK prevents transition from a quiescent to proliferative state in vitro. Inhibition of MLCK significantly reduces metastatic outgrowth in vivo. These studies show that the switch from dormancy to metastatic growth may be regulated, in part, through epigenetic signaling from the microenvironment, leading to changes in the cytoskeletal architecture of dormant cells. Targeting this process may provide therapeutic strategies for inhibition of the dormant-to-proliferative metastatic switch. [Cancer Res 2008;68(15):6241–50]
Data from A Novel, Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Suicide Substrate Inhibits Motility and Growth of Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Winner Millicent , Meier Jason , Zierow Swen , Rendon Beatriz E. , Crichlow Gregg V. , Riggs Randall , Bucala Richard , Leng Lin , Smith Ned , Lolis Elias , Trent John O. , Mitchell Robert A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Although chemokine and growth factor receptors are attractive and popular targets for cancer therapeutic intervention, structure-based targeting of the ligands themselves is generally not considered practical. New evidence indicates that a notable exception to this is macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). MIF, an autocrine- and paracrine-acting cytokine/growth factor, plays a pivotal role in both the initiation and maintenance of neoplastic diseases. MIF possesses a nonphysiologic enzymatic activity that is evolutionarily well-conserved. Although small molecule antagonists of MIFs enzymatic active site have been reported to inhibit biological activities of MIF, universally high IC50s have limited their clinical appeal. Using a computational virtual screening strategy, we have identified a unique small molecule inhibitor that serves as a suicide substrate for MIF, resulting in the covalent modification of the catalytically active NH2-terminal proline. Our studies further reveal that this compound, 4-iodo-6-phenylpyrimidine (4-IPP), is ∼5× to 10× times more potent in blocking MIF-dependent catalysis and lung adenocarcinoma cell migration and anchorage-independent growth than the prototypical MIF inhibitor, ISO-1. Finally, using an in silico combinatorial optimization strategy, we have identified four unique congeners of 4-IPP that exhibit MIF inhibitory activity at concentrations 10× to 20× lower than that of parental 4-IPP. [Cancer Res 2008;68(18):7253–7]