bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Dual Inhibition of HDAC and Tyrosine Kinase Signaling Pathways with CUDC-907 Inhibits Thyroid Cancer Growth and Metastases
Authors: Kotian Shweta , Zhang Lisa , Boufraqech Myriem , Gaskins Kelli , Gara Sudheer Kumar , Quezado Martha , Nilubol Naris , Kebebew Electron
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: There is currently no standard therapy for anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) and poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC), which account for two-thirds of thyroid cancer–related deaths. Driver mutations in the PI3K/AKT and RAF/RAS/MEK/ERK pathways are common in ATC and PDTC. Histone deacetylases (HDAC) regulate cancer initiation and progression. Our aim was to determine the therapeutic efficacy of simultaneously targeting these pathways in thyroid cancer with a single agent and to evaluate biomarkers of treatment response.

Experimental Design: CUDC-907 is a first-in-class compound, functioning as a dual inhibitor of HDACs and the PI3K/AKT pathway. We investigated its antiproliferative effect in vitro and in vivo.

Results: CUDC-907 significantly inhibited cellular proliferation in thyroid cancer cell lines, induced G2–M arrest with decreased levels of the checkpoint regulators cyclin B1, AURKA, AURKB, PLK1, and increased p21 and p27. Treatment induced apoptosis with increased caspase-3/7 activity and decreased survivin levels and decreased cellular migration and invasion. CUDC-907 treatment caused H3 hyperacetylation and decreased HDAC2 expression. HDAC2 was upregulated in ATC and other thyroid cancer histologic subtypes. CUDC-907 treatment reduced both p-AKT and p-ERK1/2 levels. Finally, CUDC-907 treatment, in a metastatic mouse model of thyroid cancer, showed significant inhibition of growth and metastases, and tumors from treated mice had decreased HDAC2 expression, suggesting that this may be a useful biomarker of response.

Conclusions: Dual inhibition of HDAC and the tyrosine kinase signaling pathways with CUDC-907 is a promising treatment strategy for advanced, metastatic thyroid cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(17); 5044–54. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Exposure–Response Analysis of Alvocidib (Flavopiridol) Treatment by Bolus or Hybrid Administration in Newly Diagnosed or Relapsed/Refractory Acute Leukemia Patients
Authors: LaCerte Carl , Ivaturi Vijay , Gobburu Joga , Greer Jacqueline M. , Doyle L. Austin , Wright John J. , Karp Judith E. , Rudek Michelle A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To elucidate any differences in the exposure–response of alvocidib (flavopiridol) given by 1-hour bolus or a hybrid schedule (30-minute bolus followed by a 4-hour infusion) using a flavopiridol/cytosine arabinoside/mitoxantrone sequential protocol (FLAM) in patients with acute leukemia. The hybrid schedule was devised to be pharmacologically superior in chronic leukemia based on unbound exposure.

Experimental Design: Data from 129 patients in three FLAM studies were used for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling. Newly diagnosed (62%) or relapsed/refractory (38%) patients were treated by bolus (43%) or hybrid schedule (57%). Total and unbound flavopiridol concentrations were fit using nonlinear mixed-effect population pharmacokinetic methodologies. Exposure–response relationships using unbound flavopiridol AUC were explored using recursive partitioning.

Results: Flavopiridol pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using a two-compartment model. No pharmacokinetic covariates were identified. Flavopiridol fraction unbound was 10.9% and not different between schedules. Partitioning found no association between dosing schedule and clinical response. Clinical response was associated with AUC ≥ 780 h*ng/mL for newly diagnosed patients and AUC ≥ 1,690 h*ng/mL for relapsed/refractory patients. Higher exposures were not associated with increases in severe adverse events (≥ grade 3).

Conclusions: Pharmacokinetic modeling showed no difference in flavopiridol plasma protein binding for bolus versus hybrid dosing. Further trials in newly diagnosed patients with acute leukemia should utilize the bolus FLAM regimen at the MTD of 50 mg/m2/day. Trials in relapsed/refractory patients should use the hybrid dosing schedule at the MTD (30/60 mg/m2/day) to achieve the higher exposures required for maximal efficacy in this population. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3592–600. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Ribonucleotide Reductase Catalytic Subunit M1 (RRM1) as a Novel Therapeutic Target in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Sagawa Morihiko , Ohguchi Hiroto , Harada Takeshi , Samur Mehmet K. , Tai Yu-Tzu , Munshi Nikhil C. , Kizaki Masahiro , Hideshima Teru , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the biological and clinical significance of ribonucleotide reductase (RR) in multiple myeloma.

Experimental Design: We assessed the impact of RR expression on patient outcome in multiple myeloma. We then characterized the effect of genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of ribonucleotide reductase catalytic subunit M1 (RRM1) on multiple myeloma growth and survival using siRNA and clofarabine, respectively, in both in vitro and in vivo mouse xenograft models.

Results: Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients with higher RRM1 expression have shortened survival. Knockdown of RRM1 triggered significant growth inhibition and apoptosis in multiple myeloma cells, even in the context of the bone marrow microenvironment. Gene expression profiling showed upregulation of DNA damage response genes and p53-regulated genes after RRM1 knockdown. Immunoblot and qRT-PCR analysis confirmed that γ-H2A.X, ATM, ATR, Chk1, Chk2, RAD51, 53BP1, BRCA1, and BRCA2 were upregulated/activated. Moreover, immunoblots showed that p53, p21, Noxa, and Puma were activated in p53 wild-type multiple myeloma cells. Clofarabine, a purine nucleoside analogue that inhibits RRM1, induced growth arrest and apoptosis in p53 wild-type cell lines. Although clofarabine did not induce cell death in p53-mutant cells, it did trigger synergistic toxicity in combination with DNA-damaging agent melphalan. Finally, we demonstrated that tumor growth of RRM1-knockdown multiple myeloma cells was significantly reduced in a murine human multiple myeloma cell xenograft model.

Conclusions: Our results therefore demonstrate that RRM1 is a novel therapeutic target in multiple myeloma in the preclinical setting and provide the basis for clinical evaluation of RRM1 inhibitor, alone or in combination with DNA-damaging agents, to improve patient outcome in multiple myeloma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(17); 5225–37. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Genomic Amplification of CD274 (PD-L1) in Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: George Julie , Saito Motonobu , Tsuta Koji , Iwakawa Reika , Shiraishi Kouya , Scheel Andreas H. , Uchida Shinsuke , Watanabe Shun-ichi , Nishikawa Ryo , Noguchi Masayuki , Peifer Martin , Jang Se Jin , Petersen Iver , Büttner Reinhard , Harris Curtis C. , Yokota Jun , Thomas Roman K. , Kohno Takashi
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), encoded by the CD274 gene, is a target for immune checkpoint blockade; however, little is known about genomic CD274 alterations. A subset of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) exhibits increased copy number of chromosome 9p24, on which CD274 resides; however, most SCLCs show low expression of PD-L1. We therefore examined whether CD274 is a target of recurrent genomic alterations.

Experimental Design: We examined somatic copy number alterations in two patient cohorts by quantitative real-time PCR in 72 human SCLC cases (cohort 1) and SNP array analysis in 138 human SCLC cases (cohort 2). Whole-genome sequencing revealed the detailed genomic structure underlying focal amplification. PD-L1 expression in amplified cases from cohorts 1 and 2 was further examined by transcriptome sequencing and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining.

Results: By examining somatic copy number alterations in two cohorts of primary human SCLC specimens, we observed 9p24 copy number gains (where CD274 resides) and focal, high-level amplification of CD274. We found evidence for genomic targeting of CD274, suggesting selection during oncogenic transformation. CD274 amplification was caused by genomic rearrangements not affecting the open reading frame, thus leading to massively increased CD274 transcripts and high level expression of PD-L1.

Conclusions: A subset (4/210, 1.9%) of human SCLC patient cases exhibits massive expression of PD-L1 caused by focal amplification of CD274. Such tumors may be particularly susceptible to immune checkpoint blockade. Clin Cancer Res; 23(5); 1220–6. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Ovarian Cancers Harbor Defects in Nonhomologous End Joining Resulting in Resistance to Rucaparib
Authors: McCormick Aiste , Donoghue Peter , Dixon Michelle , O'Sullivan Richard , O'Donnell Rachel L. , Murray James , Kaufmann Angelika , Curtin Nicola J. , Edmondson Richard J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: DNA damage defects are common in ovarian cancer and can be used to stratify treatment. Although most work has focused on homologous recombination (HR), DNA double-strand breaks are repaired primarily by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). Defects in NHEJ have been shown to contribute to genomic instability and have been associated with the development of chemoresistance.

Experimental Design: NHEJ was assessed in a panel of ovarian cancer cell lines and 47 primary ascetic-derived ovarian cancer cultures, by measuring the ability of cell extracts to end-join linearized plasmid monomers into multimers. mRNA and protein expression of components of NHEJ was determined using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Cytotoxicities of cisplatin and the PARP inhibitor rucaparib were assessed using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assays. HR function was assessed using γH2AX/RAD51 foci assay.

Results: NHEJ was defective (D) in four of six cell lines and 20 of 47 primary cultures. NHEJ function was independent of HR competence (C). NHEJD cultures were resistant to rucaparib (P = 0.0022). When HR and NHEJ functions were taken into account, only NHEJC/HRD cultures were sensitive to rucaparib (compared with NHEJC/HRC P = 0.034, NHEJD/HRC P = 0.0002, and NHEJD/HRD P = 0.0045). The DNA-PK inhibitor, NU7441, induced resistance to rucaparib (P = 0.014) and HR function recovery in a BRCA1-defective cell line.

Conclusions: This study has shown that NHEJ is defective in 40% of ovarian cancers, which is independent of HR function and associated with resistance to PARP inhibitors in ex vivo primary cultures. Clin Cancer Res; 23(8); 2050–60. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Bevacizumab Induces Acute Hypoxia and Cancer Progression in Patients with Refractory Breast Cancer: Multimodal Functional Imaging and Multiplex Cytokine Analysis
Authors: Ueda Shigeto , Saeki Toshiaki , Osaki Akihiko , Yamane Tomohiko , Kuji Ichiei
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Bevacizumab, an antibody against endothelial growth factor, is a key but controversial drug in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. We, therefore, aimed to determine the intrinsic resistance to bevacizumab at the physiologic and molecular levels in advanced breast cancer using PET, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, diffuse optical spectroscopic imaging (DOSI), and multiplex cytokine assays.

Experimental Design: In total, 28 patients diagnosed with advanced stage III/IV breast cancer receiving single-agent bevacizumab for 1 week followed by paclitaxel combined with bevacizumab underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET, 18F-fluoromisonidazole (FMISO)-PET, and MRI at both baseline and two courses after treatment initiation. Hemodynamic measurement using DOSI and blood sample collection were performed at baseline and multiple times during the first week after the initiation of single-agent bevacizumab. We distinguished nonresponders from responders by serial FDG-PET based on their glycolytic changes to chemotherapy.

Results: Nonresponders showed significantly higher hypoxic activity on FMISO-PET and less tumor shrinkage than responders. Hemodynamic parameters showed higher tumor blood volume and a remarkable decrease in the tissue oxygen level in nonresponders compared with responders after the infusion of single-agent bevacizumab. Multiplex cytokine assays revealed increased plasma levels of both proangiogenic and hypoxia-related inflammatory cytokines in nonresponders and decreased levels in responders.

Conclusions: Nonresponders exhibited a higher degree of angiogenesis with more severe hypoxia than responders during bevacizumab treatment. These findings demonstrated that the addition of bevacizumab to paclitaxel treatment under hypoxic conditions could be ineffective and may result in acute hypoxia and increased cytokine secretion associated with cancer progression. Clin Cancer Res; 23(19); 5769–78. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Therapeutic Inhibition of the MDM2–p53 Interaction Prevents Recurrence of Adenoid Cystic Carcinomas
Authors: Nör Felipe , Warner Kristy A. , Zhang Zhaocheng , Acasigua Gerson A. , Pearson Alexander T. , Kerk Samuel A. , Helman Joseph I. , Sant'Ana Filho Manoel , Wang Shaomeng , Nör Jacques E.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Conventional chemotherapy has modest efficacy in advanced adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC). Tumor recurrence is a major challenge in the management of ACC patients. Here, we evaluated the antitumor effect of a novel small-molecule inhibitor of the MDM2–p53 interaction (MI-773) combined with cisplatin in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) ACC tumors.

Experimental Design: Therapeutic strategies with MI-773 and/or cisplatin were evaluated in SCID mice harboring PDX ACC tumors (UM-PDX-HACC-5) and in low passage primary human ACC cells (UM-HACC-2A, -2B, -5, -6) in vitro. The effect of therapy on the fraction of cancer stem cells (CSC) was determined by flow cytometry for ALDH activity and CD44 expression.

Results: Combined therapy with MI-773 with cisplatin caused p53 activation, induction of apoptosis, and regression of ACC PDX tumors. Western blots revealed induction of MDM2, p53 and downstream p21 expression, and regulation of apoptosis-related proteins PUMA, BAX, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and active caspase-9 upon MI-773 treatment. Both single-agent MI-773 and MI-773 combined with cisplatin decreased the fraction of CSCs in PDX ACC tumors. Notably, neoadjuvant MI-773 and surgery eliminated tumor recurrences during a postsurgical follow-up of more than 300 days. In contrast, 62.5% of mice that received vehicle control presented with palpable tumor recurrences within this time period (P = 0.0097).

Conclusions: Collectively, these data demonstrate that therapeutic inhibition of MDM2–p53 interaction by MI-773 decreased the CSC fraction, sensitized ACC xenograft tumors to cisplatin, and eliminated tumor recurrence. These results suggest that patients with ACC might benefit from the therapeutic inhibition of the MDM2–p53 interaction. Clin Cancer Res; 23(4); 1036–48. ©2016 AACR.
Data from BRCA1-Mutated Estrogen Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer Shows BRCAness, Suggesting Sensitivity to Drugs Targeting Homologous Recombination Deficiency
Authors: Lips Esther H. , Debipersad Rashmie D. , Scheerman Caroline E. , Mulder Lennart , Sonke Gabe S. , van der Kolk Lizet E. , Wesseling Jelle , Hogervorst Frans B.L. , Nederlof Petra M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: As estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer in BRCA1 mutation carriers arises at an older age with less aggressive tumor characteristics than ER-negative (ER−) BRCA1-mutated breast cancer, it has been suggested that these tumors are “sporadic” and not BRCA1 driven. With the introduction of targeted treatments specific for tumors with a nonfunctioning BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, the question whether the BRCA genes are impaired in the tumor is highly relevant. Therefore, we performed genomic profiling of BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors.

Experimental Design: Genomic profiling, BRCA1 promoter methylation assessment, and loss of heterozygosity analysis were done on 16 BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors. Results were compared with 57 BRCA1-mutated ER− tumors, 36 BRCA2-mutated ER+-associated tumors, and 182 sporadic ER+ tumors.

Results: The genomic profile of BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors was different from BRCA1-mutated ER− breast tumors, but highly similar to BRCA2-mutated ER+ tumors. In 83% of the BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors, loss of the wild-type BRCA1 allele was observed. In addition, clinicopathologic variables in BRCA1-mutated ER+ cancer were also more similar to BRCA2-mutated ER+ and sporadic ER+ breast cancer than to BRCA1-mutated ER− cancers.

Conclusions: As BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors show a BRCAness copy number profile and LOH, it is likely that the loss of a functional BRCA1 protein plays a role in tumorigenesis in BRCA1-mutated ER+ tumors. Therefore, we hypothesize that these tumors are sensitive to drugs targeting the BRCA1 gene defect, providing new targeted treatment modalities for advanced BRCA-deficient, ER+ breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(5); 1236–41. ©2016 AACR.
Data from A GRP78-Directed Monoclonal Antibody Recaptures Response in Refractory Multiple Myeloma with Extramedullary Involvement
Authors: Rasche Leo , Menoret Emmanuelle , Dubljevic Valentina , Menu Eline , Vanderkerken Karin , Lapa Constantin , Steinbrunn Torsten , Chatterjee Manik , Knop Stefan , Düll Johannes , Greenwood Deanne L. , Hensel Frank , Rosenwald Andreas , Einsele Hermann , Brändlein Stephanie
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Glucose-regulated protein (GRP) 78 is overexpressed in multiple myeloma, and both its surface expression and its biologic significance as key sensor of the unfolded protein response make GRP78 an ideal candidate for immunotherapeutic intervention. The monoclonal antibody PAT-SM6 targets surface GRP78 and leads to disease stabilization when used as single agent in a clinical trial. In this article, we evaluated expression of GRP78 in relapsed-refractory disease and explored PAT-SM6 therapy in combination regimens.

Experimental Design: GRP78 expression was immunohistochemically analyzed during disease progression and development of drug resistance throughout different stages of multiple myeloma. Activity of PAT-SM6 was evaluated in combination with anti–multiple myeloma agents lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone in vitro. Finally, we report on a multiple myeloma patient with relapsed-refractory disease treated with PAT-SM6 in combination with bortezomib and lenalidomide.

Results: Although sGRP78 expression was present at all stages, it increased with disease progression and was even strongly elevated in patients with drug-resistant and extramedullary disease. Pretreatment with dexamethasone as well as dual combination of PAT-SM6/lenalidomide further increased sGRP78 expression and consecutively showed synergistic anti–multiple myeloma effects with PAT-SM6 in proliferation assays. As proof of concept, a 62-year-old male with triple resistant multiple myeloma treated with PAT-SM6, bortezomib, and lenalidomide experienced partial remission of both intra- and extramedullary lesions.

Conclusions: PAT-SM6 therapy in combination regimens showed efficacy in relapsed-refractory multiple myeloma. Clin Cancer Res; 22(17); 4341–9. ©2016 AACR.
Data from A First-in-Human Phase I Study of a Bivalent MET Antibody, Emibetuzumab (LY2875358), as Monotherapy and in Combination with Erlotinib in Advanced Cancer
Authors: Rosen Lee S. , Goldman Jonathan W. , Algazi Alain P. , Turner P. Kellie , Moser Brian , Hu Tianle , Wang Xuejing Aimee , Tuttle Jay , Wacheck Volker , Wooldridge James E. , Banck Michaela
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The MET/HGF pathway regulates cell proliferation and survival and is dysregulated in multiple tumors. Emibetuzumab (LY2875358) is a bivalent antibody that inhibits HGF-dependent and HGF-independent MET signaling. Here, we report dose escalation results from the first-in-human phase I trial of emibetuzumab.

Experimental Design: The study comprised a 3+3 dose escalation for emibetuzumab monotherapy (Part A) and in combination with erlotinib (Part A2). Emibetuzumab was administered i.v. every 2 weeks (Q2W) using a flat dosing scheme. The primary objective was to determine a recommended phase II dose (RPTD) range; secondary endpoints included tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and antitumor activity.

Results: Twenty-three patients with solid tumors received emibetuzumab monotherapy at 20, 70, 210, 700, 1,400, and 2,000 mg and 14 non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients at 700, 1,400, and 2,000 mg in combination with erlotinib 150 mg daily. No dose-limiting toxicities and related serious or ≥ grade 3 adverse events were observed. The most common emibetuzumab-related adverse events included mild diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and mild to moderate fatigue, anorexia, and hypocalcemia in combination with erlotinib. Emibetuzumab showed linear PK at doses >210 mg. Three durable partial responses were observed, one for emibetuzumab (700 mg) and two for emibetuzumab + erlotinib (700 mg and 2,000 mg). Both of the responders to emibetuzumab + erlotinib had progressed to prior erlotinib and were positive for MET protein tumor expression.

Conclusions: Based on tolerability, PK/PD analysis, and preliminary clinical activity, the RPTD range for emibetuzumab single agent and in combination with erlotinib is 700 to 2,000 mg i.v. Q2W. Clin Cancer Res; 23(8); 1910–9. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Demethylation Therapy as a Targeted Treatment for Human Papillomavirus–Associated Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Biktasova Asel , Hajek Michael , Sewell Andrew , Gary Cyril , Bellinger Gary , Deshpande Hari A. , Bhatia Aarti , Burtness Barbara , Judson Benjamin , Mehra Saral , Yarbrough Wendell G. , Issaeva Natalia
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: DNA methylation in human papillomavirus–associated (HPV+) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) may have importance for continuous expression of HPV oncogenes, tumor cell proliferation, and survival. Here, we determined activity of a global DNA-demethylating agent, 5-azacytidine (5-aza), against HPV+ HNSCC in preclinical models and explored it as a targeted therapy in a window trial enrolling patients with HPV+ HNSCC.

Experimental Design: Sensitivity of HNSCC cells to 5-aza treatment was determined, and then 5-aza activity was tested in vivo using xenografted tumors in a mouse model. Finally, tumor samples from patients enrolled in a window clinical trial were analyzed to identify activity of 5-aza therapy in patients with HPV+ HNSCC.

Results: Clinical trial and experimental data show that 5-aza induced growth inhibition and cell death in HPV+ HNSCC. 5-aza reduced expression of HPV genes, stabilized p53, and induced p53-dependent apoptosis in HNSCC cells and tumors. 5-aza repressed expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in HPV+ HNSCC, activated IFN response in some HPV+ head and neck cancer cells, and inhibited the ability of HPV+ xenografted tumors to invade mouse blood vessels.

Conclusions: 5-aza may provide effective therapy for HPV-associated HNSCC as an alternative or complement to standard cytotoxic therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(23); 7276–87. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Comparison of Acalabrutinib, A Selective Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, with Ibrutinib in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Patel Viralkumar , Balakrishnan Kumudha , Bibikova Elena , Ayres Mary , Keating Michael J. , Wierda William G. , Gandhi Varsha
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Ibrutinib inhibits Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) by irreversibly binding to the Cys-481 residue in the enzyme. However, ibrutinib also inhibits several other enzymes that contain cysteine residues homologous to Cys-481 in BTK. Patients with relapsed/refractory or previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) demonstrate a high overall response rate to ibrutinib with prolonged survival. Acalabrutinib, a selective BTK inhibitor developed to minimize off-target activity, has shown promising overall response rates in patients with relapsed/refractory CLL. A head-to-head comparison of ibrutinib and acalabrutinib in CLL cell cultures and healthy T cells is needed to understand preclinical biologic and molecular effects.

Experimental Design: Using samples from patients with CLL, we compared the effects of both BTK inhibitors on biologic activity, chemokine production, cell migration, BTK phosphorylation, and downstream signaling in primary CLL lymphocytes and on normal T-cell signaling to determine the effects on other kinases.

Results: Both BTK inhibitors induced modest cell death accompanied by cleavage of PARP and caspase-3. Production of CCL3 and CCL4 chemokines and pseudoemperipolesis were inhibited by both drugs to a similar degree. These drugs also showed similar inhibitory effects on the phosphorylation of BTK and downstream S6 and ERK kinases. In contrast, off-target effects on SRC-family kinases were more pronounced with ibrutinib than acalabrutinib in healthy T lymphocytes.

Conclusions: Both BTK inhibitors show similar biological and molecular profile in primary CLL cells but appear different on their effect on normal T cells. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3734–43. ©2016 AACR.
Data from The Added Value of Circulating Tumor Cell Enumeration to Standard Markers in Assessing Prognosis in a Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Population
Authors: Heller Glenn , Fizazi Karim , McCormack Robert , Molina Arturo , MacLean David , Webb Iain J. , Saad Fred , de Bono Johann S. , Scher Howard I.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is a heterogeneous disease for which better prognostic models for survival are needed. We examined the added value of circulating tumor cell (CTC) enumeration relative to common prognostic laboratory measures from patients with CRPC.

Methods: Utility of CTC enumeration as a baseline and postbaseline prognostic biomarker was examined using data from two prospective randomized registration-directed trials (COU-AA-301 and ELM-PC4) within statistical models used to estimate risk for survival. Discrimination and calibration were used to measure model predictive accuracy and the added value for CTC enumeration in the context of a Cox model containing albumin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), PSA, hemoglobin, and alkaline phosphatase (ALK). Discrimination quantifies how accurately a risk model predicts short-term versus long-term survivors. Calibration measures the closeness of actual survival time to the predicted survival time.

Results: Adding CTC enumeration to a model containing albumin, LDH, PSA, hemoglobin, and ALK (“ALPHA”) improved its discriminatory power. The weighted c-index for ALPHA without CTCs was 0.72 (SE, 0.02) versus 0.75 (SE, 0.02) for ALPHA + CTCs. The increase in discrimination was restricted to the lower-risk cohort. In terms of calibration, adding CTCs produced a more accurate model-based prediction of patient survival. The absolute prediction error for ALPHA was 3.95 months (SE, 0.28) versus 3.75 months (SE, 0.22) for ALPHA + CTCs.

Conclusions: Addition of CTC enumeration to standard measures provides more accurate assessment of patient risk in terms of baseline and postbaseline prognosis in the mCRPC population. Clin Cancer Res; 23(8); 1967–73. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Long-term Survival in Glioblastoma with Cytomegalovirus pp65-Targeted Vaccination
Authors: Batich Kristen A. , Reap Elizabeth A. , Archer Gary E. , Sanchez-Perez Luis , Nair Smita K. , Schmittling Robert J. , Norberg Pam , Xie Weihua , Herndon James E. , Healy Patrick , McLendon Roger E. , Friedman Allan H. , Friedman Henry S. , Bigner Darell , Vlahovic Gordana , Mitchell Duane A. , Sampson John H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Patients with glioblastoma have less than 15-month median survival despite surgical resection, high-dose radiation, and chemotherapy with temozolomide. We previously demonstrated that targeting cytomegalovirus pp65 using dendritic cells (DC) can extend survival and, in a separate study, that dose-intensified temozolomide (DI-TMZ) and adjuvant granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) potentiate tumor-specific immune responses in patients with glioblastoma. Here, we evaluated pp65-specific cellular responses following DI-TMZ with pp65-DCs and determined the effects on long-term progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Experimental Design: Following standard-of-care, 11 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma received DI-TMZ (100 mg/m2/d × 21 days per cycle) with at least three vaccines of pp65 lysosome–associated membrane glycoprotein mRNA-pulsed DCs admixed with GM-CSF on day 23 ± 1 of each cycle. Thereafter, monthly DI-TMZ cycles and pp65-DCs were continued if patients had not progressed.

Results: Following DI-TMZ cycle 1 and three doses of pp65-DCs, pp65 cellular responses significantly increased. After DI-TMZ, both the proportion and proliferation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) increased and remained elevated with serial DI-TMZ cycles. Median PFS and OS were 25.3 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 11.0–∞] and 41.1 months (95% CI, 21.6–∞), exceeding survival using recursive partitioning analysis and matched historical controls. Four patients remained progression-free at 59 to 64 months from diagnosis. No known prognostic factors [age, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), IDH-1/2 mutation, and MGMT promoter methylation] predicted more favorable outcomes for the patients in this cohort.

Conclusions: Despite increased Treg proportions following DI-TMZ, patients receiving pp65-DCs showed long-term PFS and OS, confirming prior studies targeting cytomegalovirus in glioblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(8); 1898–909. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Alterations in the Immune Cell Composition in Premalignant Breast Tissue that Precede Breast Cancer Development
Authors: Degnim Amy C. , Hoskin Tanya L. , Arshad Muhammad , Frost Marlene H. , Winham Stacey J. , Brahmbhatt Rushin A. , Pena Alvaro , Carter Jodi M. , Stallings-Mann Melody L. , Murphy Linda M. , Miller Erin E. , Denison Lori A. , Vachon Celine M. , Knutson Keith L. , Radisky Derek C. , Visscher Daniel W.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Little is known about the role of the immune system in the earliest stages of breast carcinogenesis. We studied quantitative differences in immune cell types between breast tissues from normal donors and those from women with benign breast disease (BBD).

Experimental Design: A breast tissue matched case–control study was created from donors to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tissue Bank (KTB) and from women diagnosed with BBD at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) who either subsequently developed cancer (BBD cases) or remained cancer-free (BBD controls). Serial tissue sections underwent immunostaining and digital quantification of cell number per mm2 for CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD20+ B cells, and CD68+ macrophages and quantification of positive pixel measure for CD11c (dendritic cells).

Results: In 94 age-matched triplets, BBD lobules showed greater densities of CD8+ T cells, CD11c+ dendritic cells, CD20+ B cells, and CD68+ macrophages compared with KTB normals. Relative to BBD controls, BBD cases had lower CD20+ cell density (P = 0.04). Nearly 42% of BBD cases had no CD20+ B cells in evaluated lobules compared with 28% of BBD controls (P = 0.02). The absence of CD20+ cells versus the presence in all lobules showed an adjusted OR of 5.7 (95% confidence interval, 1.4–23.1) for subsequent breast cancer risk.

Conclusions: Elevated infiltration of both innate and adaptive immune effectors in BBD tissues suggests an immunogenic microenvironment. The reduced B-cell infiltration in women with later breast cancer suggests a role for B cells in preventing disease progression and as a possible biomarker for breast cancer risk. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3945–52. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Genotype-Guided Dosing Study of FOLFIRI plus Bevacizumab in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Toffoli Giuseppe , Sharma Manish R. , Marangon Elena , Posocco Bianca , Gray Elizabeth , Mai Quan , Buonadonna Angela , Polite Blase N. , Miolo Gianmaria , Tabaro Gianna , Innocenti Federico
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: UGT1A1*28 confers a higher risk of toxicity in patients treated with irinotecan. Patients with *1/*1 and *1/*28 genotypes might tolerate higher than standard doses of irinotecan. We aimed to identify the MTD of irinotecan in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) with *1/*1 and *1/*28 genotypes treated with FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab, and to determine whether bevacizumab alters irinotecan pharmacokinetics.

Experimental Design: Previously untreated patients with mCRC (25 *1/*1; 23 *1/*28) were given FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab every 2 weeks. The irinotecan dose was escalated using a 3 + 3 design in each genotype group as follows: 260, 310, and 370 mg/m2. The MTD was the highest dose at which <4/10 patients had a dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). Pharmacokinetics of irinotecan and SN-38 were measured on days 1 to 3 (without bevacizumab) and 15 to 17 (with bevacizumab).

Results: For *1/*1 patients, 2 DLTs were observed among 10 patients at 310 mg/m2, while 370 mg/m2 was not tolerated (2 DLTs in 4 patients). For *1/*28 patients, 2 DLTs were observed among 10 patients at 260 mg/m2, while 310 mg/m2 was not tolerated (4 DLTs in 10 patients). Neutropenia and diarrhea were the most common DLTs. Changes in the AUCs of irinotecan and SN-38 associated with bevacizumab treatment were marginal.

Conclusions: The MTD of irinotecan in FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab is 310 mg/m2 for UGT1A1 *1/*1 patients and 260 mg/m2 for *1/*28 patients. Bevacizumab does not alter the pharmacokinetics of irinotecan. The antitumor efficacy of these genotype-guided doses should be tested in future studies of patients with mCRC treated with FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab. Clin Cancer Res; 23(4); 918–24. ©2016 AACR.
Data from An Integrated Approach Identifies Mediators of Local Recurrence in Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma
Authors: Citron Francesca , Armenia Joshua , Franchin Giovanni , Polesel Jerry , Talamini Renato , D'Andrea Sara , Sulfaro Sandro , Croce Carlo M. , Klement William , Otasek David , Pastrello Chiara , Tokar Tomas , Jurisica Igor , French Deborah , Bomben Riccardo , Vaccher Emanuela , Serraino Diego , Belletti Barbara , Vecchione Andrea , Barzan Luigi , Baldassarre Gustavo
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) cause more than 300,000 deaths worldwide each year. Locoregional and distant recurrences represent worse prognostic events and accepted surrogate markers of patients' overall survival. No valid biomarker and salvage therapy exist to identify and treat patients at high-risk of recurrence. We aimed to verify if selected miRNAs could be used as biomarkers of recurrence in HNSCC.

Experimental Design: A NanoString array was used to identify miRNAs associated with locoregional recurrence in 44 patients with HNSCC. Bioinformatic approaches validated the signature and identified potential miRNA targets. Validation experiments were performed using an independent cohort of primary HNSCC samples and a panel of HNSCC cell lines. In vivo experiments validated the in vitro results.

Results: Our data identified a four-miRNA signature that classified HNSCC patients at high- or low-risk of recurrence. These miRNAs collectively impinge on the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process. In silico and wet lab approaches showed that miR-9, expressed at high levels in recurrent HNSCC, targets SASH1 and KRT13, whereas miR-1, miR-133, and miR-150, expressed at low levels in recurrent HNSCC, collectively target SP1 and TGFβ pathways. A six-gene signature comprising these targets identified patients at high risk of recurrences, as well. Combined pharmacological inhibition of SP1 and TGFβ pathways induced HNSCC cell death and, when timely administered, prevented recurrence formation in a preclinical model of HNSCC recurrence.

Conclusions: By integrating different experimental approaches and competences, we identified critical mediators of recurrence formation in HNSCC that may merit to be considered for future clinical development. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3769–80. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy of Ovarian Cancer Results in Three Patterns of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte Response with Distinct Implications for Immunotherapy
Authors: Lo Charlotte S. , Sanii Sanaz , Kroeger David R. , Milne Katy , Talhouk Aline , Chiu Derek S. , Rahimi Kurosh , Shaw Patricia A. , Clarke Blaise A. , Nelson Brad H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Some forms of chemotherapy can enhance antitumor immunity through immunogenic cell death, resulting in increased T-cell activation and tumor infiltration. Such effects could potentially sensitize tumors to immunotherapies, including checkpoint blockade. We investigated whether platinum- and taxane-based chemotherapy for ovarian cancer induces immunologic changes consistent with this possibility.

Experimental Design: Matched pre- and post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy tumor samples from 26 high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) patients were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) for a large panel of immune cells and associated factors. The prognostic significance of post-chemotherapy TIL patterns was assessed in an expanded cohort (n = 90).

Results: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated with increased densities of CD3+, CD8+, CD8+ TIA-1+, PD-1+ and CD20+ TIL. Other immune subsets and factors were unchanged, including CD79a+ CD138+ plasma cells, CD68+ macrophages, and MHC class I on tumor cells. Immunosuppressive cell types were also unchanged, including FoxP3+ PD-1+ cells (putative regulatory T cells), IDO-1+ cells, and PD-L1+ cells (both macrophages and tumor cells). Hierarchical clustering revealed three response patterns: (i) TILhigh tumors showed increases in multiple immune markers after chemotherapy; (ii) TILlow tumors underwent similar increases, achieving patterns indistinguishable from the first group; and (iii) TILnegative cases generally remained negative. Despite the dramatic increases seen in the first two patterns, post-chemotherapy TIL showed limited prognostic significance.

Conclusions: Chemotherapy augments pre-existing TIL responses but fails to relieve major immune-suppressive mechanisms or confer significant prognostic benefit. Our findings provide rationale for multipronged approaches to immunotherapy tailored to the baseline features of the tumor microenvironment. Clin Cancer Res; 23(4); 925–34. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of CDK4/6 by Palbociclib Significantly Extends Survival in Medulloblastoma Patient-Derived Xenograft Mouse Models
Authors: Cook Sangar Michelle L. , Genovesi Laura A. , Nakamoto Madison W. , Davis Melissa J. , Knobluagh Sue E. , Ji Pengxiang , Millar Amanda , Wainwright Brandon J. , Olson James M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Bioinformatics analysis followed by in vivo studies in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models were used to identify and validate CDK 4/6 inhibition as an effective therapeutic strategy for medulloblastoma, particularly group 3 MYC-amplified tumors that have the worst clinical prognosis.

Experimental Design: A protein interaction network derived from a Sleeping Beauty mutagenesis model of medulloblastoma was used to identify potential novel therapeutic targets. The top hit from this analysis was validated in vivo using PDX models of medulloblastoma implanted subcutaneously in the flank and orthotopically in the cerebellum of mice.

Results: Informatics analysis identified the CDK4/6/CYCLIN D/RB pathway as a novel “druggable” pathway for multiple subgroups of medulloblastoma. Palbociclib, a highly specific inhibitor of CDK4/6, was found to inhibit RB phosphorylation and cause G1 arrest in PDX models of medulloblastoma. The drug caused rapid regression of Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and MYC-amplified group 3 medulloblastoma subcutaneous tumors and provided a highly significant survival advantage to mice bearing MYC-amplified intracranial tumors.

Conclusions: Inhibition of CDK4/6 is potentially a highly effective strategy for the treatment of SHH and MYC-amplified group 3 medulloblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(19); 5802–13. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Capmatinib (INC280) Is Active Against Models of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer and Other Cancer Types with Defined Mechanisms of MET Activation
Authors: Baltschukat Sabrina , Engstler Barbara Schacher , Huang Alan , Hao Huai-Xiang , Tam Angela , Wang Hui Qin , Liang Jinsheng , DiMare Matthew T. , Bhang Hyo-Eun Carrie , Wang Youzhen , Furet Pascal , Sellers William R. , Hofmann Francesco , Schoepfer Joseph , Tiedt Ralph
Published: April 2023

AbstractPurpose:
The selective MET inhibitor capmatinib is being investigated in multiple clinical trials, both as a single agent and in combination. Here, we describe the preclinical data of capmatinib, which supported the clinical biomarker strategy for rational patient selection.
Experimental Design:
The selectivity and cellular activity of capmatinib were assessed in large cellular screening panels. Antitumor efficacy was quantified in a large set of cell line– or patient-derived xenograft models, testing single-agent or combination treatment depending on the genomic profile of the respective models.
Results:
Capmatinib was found to be highly selective for MET over other kinases. It was active against cancer models that are characterized by MET amplification, marked MET overexpression, MET exon 14 skipping mutations, or MET activation via expression of the ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). In cancer models where MET is the dominant oncogenic driver, anticancer activity could be further enhanced by combination treatments, for example, by the addition of apoptosis-inducing BH3 mimetics. The combinations of capmatinib and other kinase inhibitors resulted in enhanced anticancer activity against models where MET activation co-occurred with other oncogenic drivers, for example EGFR activating mutations.
Conclusions:
Activity of capmatinib in preclinical models is associated with a small number of plausible genomic features. The low fraction of cancer models that respond to capmatinib as a single agent suggests that the implementation of patient selection strategies based on these biomarkers is critical for clinical development. Capmatinib is also a rational combination partner for other kinase inhibitors to combat MET-driven resistance.
Data from Exome Analysis Reveals Genomic Markers Associated with Better Efficacy of Nivolumab in Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Richard Corentin , Fumet Jean-David , Chevrier Sandy , Derangère Valentin , Ledys Fanny , Lagrange Aurélie , Favier Laure , Coudert Bruno , Arnould Laurent , Truntzer Caroline , Boidot Romain , Ghiringhelli François
Published: April 2023

AbstractPurpose:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors revolutionized the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only one-quarter of patients benefit from these new therapies. PD-L1 assessment and tumor mutational burden (TMB) are available tools to optimize use of checkpoint inhibitors but novel tools are needed. Exome sequencing could generate many variables but their role in identifying predictors of response is unknown.
Experimental Design:
We performed somatic and constitutional exome analyses for 77 patients with NSCLC treated with nivolumab. We studied: one-tumor-related characteristics: aneuploidy, CNA clonality, mutational signatures, TMB, mutations in WNT, AKT, MAPK, and DNA repair pathways, and two-immunologic characteristics: number of intratumoral TCR clones, HLA types, and number of neoantigens; and six clinical parameters.
Results:
A high TMB per Mb, a high number of neoantigens, mutational signatures 1A and 1B, mutations in DNA repair pathways, and a low number of TCR clones are associated with greater PFS. Using a LASSO method, we established an exome-based model with nine exome parameters that could discriminate patients with good or poor PFS (P < 0.0001) and overall survival (P = 0.002). This model shows better ability to predict outcomes compared with a PD-L1 clinical model with or without TMB. It was externally validated on two cohorts of patients with NSCLC treated with pembrolizumab or with nivolumab and ipilimumab as well as in urothelial tumors treated with atezolizumab.
Conclusions:
Altogether, these data provide a validated biomarker that predicts the efficacy of nivolumab or pembrolizumab in patients with NSCLC. Our biomarker seems to be superior to PD-L1 labeling and TMB models.
Data from Targeting the Wnt Pathway and Cancer Stem Cells with Anti-progastrin Humanized Antibodies as a Potential Treatment for K-RAS-Mutated Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Prieur Alexandre , Cappellini Monica , Habif Guillaume , Lefranc Marie-Paule , Mazard Thibault , Morency Eric , Pascussi Jean-Marc , Flacelière Maud , Cahuzac Nathalie , Vire Bérengère , Dubuc Benjamin , Durochat Amandine , Liaud Pierre , Ollier Jérémy , Pfeiffer Caroline , Poupeau Sophie , Saywell Véronique , Planque Chris , Assenat Eric , Bibeau Frédéric , Bourgaux Jean-François , Pujol Pascal , Sézeur Alain , Ychou Marc , Joubert Dominique
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer suffer from disease relapse mainly due to cancer stem cells (CSC). Interestingly, they have an increased level of blood progastrin, a tumor-promoting peptide essential for the self-renewal of colon CSCs, which is also a direct β-catenin/TCF4 target gene. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel targeted therapy to neutralize secreted progastrin to inhibit Wnt signaling, CSCs, and reduce relapses.

Experimental Design: Antibodies (monoclonal and humanized) directed against progastrin were produced and selected for target specificity and affinity. After validation of their effectiveness on survival of colorectal cancer cell lines harboring B-RAF or K-RAS mutations, their efficacy was assessed in vitro and in vivo, alone or concomitantly with chemotherapy, on CSC self-renewal capacity, tumor recurrence, and Wnt signaling.

Results: We show that anti-progastrin antibodies decrease self-renewal of CSCs both in vitro and in vivo, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Furthermore, migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells are diminished; chemosensitivity is prolonged in SW620 and HT29 cells and posttreatment relapse is significantly delayed in T84 cells, xenografted nude mice. Finally, we show that the Wnt signaling activity in vitro is decreased, and, in transgenic mice developing Wnt-driven intestinal neoplasia, the tumor burden is alleviated, with an amplification of cell differentiation in the remaining tumors.

Conclusions: Altogether, these data show that humanized anti-progastrin antibodies might represent a potential new treatment for K-RAS–mutated colorectal patients, for which there is a crucial unmet medical need. Clin Cancer Res; 23(17); 5267–80. ©2017 AACR.