bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Porcupine Inhibition Disrupts Mitochondrial Function and Homeostasis in WNT Ligand–Addicted Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Aguilera Kristina Y. , Le Thuc , Riahi Rana , Lay Anna R. , Hinz Stefan , Saadat Edris A. , Vashisht Ajay A. , Wohlschlegel James , Donahue Timothy R. , Radu Caius G. , Dawson David W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
WNT signaling promotes pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) through diverse effects on proliferation, differentiation, survival, and stemness. A subset of PDAC with inactivating mutations in ring finger protein 43 (RNF43) show growth dependency on autocrine WNT ligand signaling and are susceptible to agents that block WNT ligand acylation by Porcupine O-acyltransferase, which is required for proper WNT ligand processing and secretion. For this study, global transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses were performed to explore the therapeutic response of RNF43-mutant PDAC to the Porcupine inhibitor (PORCNi) LGK974. LGK974 disrupted cellular bioenergetics and mitochondrial function through actions that included rapid mitochondrial depolarization, reduced mitochondrial content, and inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation and tricarboxylic acid cycle. LGK974 also broadly altered transcriptional activity, downregulating genes involved in cell cycle, nucleotide metabolism, and ribosomal biogenesis and upregulating genes involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition, hypoxia, endocytosis, and lysosomes. Autophagy and lysosomal activity were augmented in response to LGK974, which synergistically inhibited tumor cell viability in combination with chloroquine. Autocrine WNT ligand signaling dictates metabolic dependencies in RNF43-mutant PDAC through a combination of transcription dependent and independent effects linked to mitochondrial health and function. Metabolic adaptations to mitochondrial damage and bioenergetic stress represent potential targetable liabilities in combination with PORCNi for the treatment of WNT ligand-addicted PDAC.
Data from Exploration of Tumor Biopsy Gene Signatures to Understand the Role of the Tumor Microenvironment in Outcomes to Lisocabtagene Maraleucel
Authors: Olson N. Eric , Ragan Seamus P. , Reiss David J. , Thorpe Jerill , Kim Yeonhee , Abramson Jeremy S. , McCoy Candice , Newhall Kathryn J. , Fox Brian A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the TRANSCEND NHL 001 study, 53% of patients with relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) treated with lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel) achieved a complete response (CR). To determine characteristics of patients who did and did not achieve a CR, we examined the tumor biology and microenvironment from lymph node tumor biopsies. LBCL biopsies from liso-cel–treated patients were taken pretreatment and ∼11 days posttreatment for RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF). We analyzed gene expression data from pretreatment biopsies (N = 78) to identify gene sets enriched in patients who achieved a CR to those with progressive disease. Pretreatment biopsies from month-3 CR patients displayed higher expression levels of T-cell and stroma-associated genes, and lower expression of cell-cycle genes. To interpret whether LBCL samples were “follicular lymphoma (FL)–like,” we constructed an independent gene expression signature and found that patients with a higher “FL-like” gene expression score had longer progression-free survival (PFS). Cell of origin was not associated with response or PFS, but double-hit gene expression was associated with shorter PFS. The day 11 posttreatment samples (RNA-seq, N = 73; mIF, N = 53) had higher levels of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell densities and CAR gene expression, general immune infiltration, and immune activation in patients with CR. Further, the majority of T cells in the day 11 samples were endogenous. Gene expression signatures in liso-cel–treated patients with LBCL can inform the development of combination therapies and next-generation CAR T-cell therapies.
Data from Computational Modeling of TP63–TP53 Interaction and Rational Design of Inhibitors: Implications for Therapeutics
Authors: Ozdemir E. Sila , Gomes Michelle M. , Fischer Jared M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Tumor protein p63 (TP63) is a member of the TP53 protein family that are important for development and in tumor suppression. Unlike TP53, TP63 is rarely mutated in cancer, but instead different TP63 isoforms regulate its activity. TA isoforms (TAp63) act as tumor suppressors, whereas ΔN isoforms are strong drivers of squamous or squamous-like cancers. Many of these tumors become addicted to ΔN isoforms and removal of ΔN isoforms result in cancer cell death. Furthermore, some TP53 conformational mutants (TP53CM) gain the ability to interact with TAp63 isoforms and inhibit their antitumorigenic function, while indirectly promoting tumorigenic function of ΔN isoforms, but the exact mechanism of TP63–TP53CM interaction is unclear. The changes in the balance of TP63 isoform activity are crucial to understanding the transition between normal and tumor cells. Here, we modeled TP63–TP53CM complex using computational approaches. We then used our models to design peptides to disrupt the TP63–TP53CM interaction and restore antitumorigenic TAp63 function. In addition, we studied ΔN isoform oligomerization and designed peptides to inhibit its oligomerization and reduce their tumorigenic activity. We show that some of our peptides promoted cell death in a TP63 highly expressed cancer cell line, but not in a TP63 lowly expressed cancer cell line. Furthermore, we performed kinetic–binding assays to validate binding of our peptides to their targets. Our computational and experimental analyses present a detailed model for the TP63–TP53CM interaction and provide a framework for potential therapeutic peptides for the elimination of TP53CM cancer cells.
Data from Inhibition of Wnt Signaling in Colon Cancer Cells via an Oral Drug that Facilitates TNIK Degradation
Authors: Zhou Kun , Cheong Jae Eun , Krishnaji Subrahmanian Tarakkad , Ghalali Aram , Fu Haojie , Sui Lufei , Alix-Panabières Catherine , Cayrefourcq Laure , Bielenberg Diane , Sun Lijun , Zetter Bruce
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We have synthesized an oxetane derivative of the benzimidazole compound mebendazole (OBD9) with enhanced solubility and strong anticancer activity in multiple types of cancer cells, especially colorectal cancer. In this report, we provide evidence that OBD9 suppresses colorectal cancer growth by interfering with the Wnt signaling pathway, a main driver of cell growth in colorectal cancer. Specifically, we find that OBD9 induces autophagic degradation of TNIK (traf2 and Nck-interacting kinase), which promotes T-cell factor-4 (TCF4)/beta-catenin–mediated gene expression. Thus, OBD9 as a TNIK inhibitor blocks Wnt/beta-catenin signaling at the final step of transcriptional activation. We suggest that OBD9 provides a potential novel autophagy-mediated, Wnt-damping therapeutic strategy for the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Data from Anticancer Activity of ST101, A Novel Antagonist of CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein β
Authors: Darvishi Emad , Ghamsari Lila , Leong Siok F. , Ramirez Ricardo , Koester Mark , Gallagher Erin , Yu Miao , Mason Jody M. , Merutka Gene , Kappel Barry J. , Rotolo Jim A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ) is a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) family transcription factor, which is upregulated or overactivated in many cancers, resulting in a gene expression profile that drives oncogenesis. C/EBPβ dimerization regulates binding to DNA at the canonical TTGCGCAA motif and subsequent transcriptional activity, suggesting that disruption of dimerization represents a powerful approach to inhibit this previously “undruggable” oncogenic target. Here we describe the mechanism of action and antitumor activity of ST101, a novel and selective peptide antagonist of C/EBPβ that is currently in clinical evaluation in patients with advanced solid tumors. ST101 binds the leucine zipper domain of C/EBPβ, preventing its dimerization and enhancing ubiquitin-proteasome dependent C/EBPβ degradation. ST101 exposure attenuates transcription of C/EBPβ target genes, including a significant decrease in expression of survival, transcription factors, and cell-cycle-related proteins. The result of ST101 exposure is potent, tumor-specific in vitro cytotoxic activity in cancer cell lines including glioblastoma, breast, melanoma, prostate, and lung cancer, whereas normal human immune and epithelial cells are not impacted. Further, in mouse xenograft models ST101 exposure results in potent tumor growth inhibition or regression, both as a single agent and in combination studies. These data provide the First Disclosure of ST101, and support continued clinical development of ST101 as a novel strategy for targeting C/EBPβ-dependent cancers.
Data from Preclinical Characterization of XL092, a Novel Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor of MET, VEGFR2, AXL, and MER
Authors: Hsu Jeff , Chong Colin , Serrill Jeffrey , Goon Levina , Balayan Joan , Johnson Eric N. , Lorenzana Grachelle , Wu Sharon , Leong Kevin G. , Yun Theodore J. , Wang Yong , Jiang Faming , Bannen Lynne , Lamb Peter , Xu Wei , Yu Peiwen
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The multi-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor XL092 has been developed to inhibit the activity of oncogenic targets, including MET, VEGFR2, and the TAM family of kinases TYRO3, AXL and MER. Presented here is a preclinical evaluation of XL092. XL092 causes a significant decrease in tumor MET and AXL phosphorylation (P < 0.01) in murine Hs 746T xenograft models relative to vehicle, and a 96% inhibition of VEGFR2 phosphorylation in murine lungs. Dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition with XL092 was observed in various murine xenograft models, with dose-dependent tumor regression seen in the NCI-H441 model. Tumor growth inhibition was enhanced with the combination of XL092 with anti-PD-1, anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), or anti-CTLA-4 compared with any of these agents alone in the MC38 murine syngeneic model and with anti-PD-1 in the CT26 colorectal cancer survival model. In vivo, XL092 promoted a decrease in the tumor microvasculature and significant increases of peripheral CD4+ T cells and B cells and decreases in myeloid cells versus vehicle. Significant increases in CD8+ T cells were also observed with XL092 plus anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 versus vehicle. In addition, XL092 promoted M2 to M1 repolarization of macrophages in vitro and inhibited primary human macrophage efferocytosis in a dose-dependent manner. In summary, XL092 was shown to have significant antitumor and immunomodulatory activity in animal models both alone and in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, supporting its evaluation in clinical trials.
Data from Comparative Oncology Assessment of a Novel Inhibitor of Valosin-Containing Protein in Tumor-Bearing Dogs
Authors: LeBlanc Amy K. , Mazcko Christina N. , Fan Timothy M. , Vail David M. , Flesner Brian K. , Bryan Jeffrey N. , Li Shan , Wang Feng , Harris Scott , Vargas Jesse D. , Govindharajulu Jeevan P. , Jaganathan Soumya , Tomaino Francesca , Srivastava Apurva K. , Chou Tsui-Fen , Stott Gordon M. , Covey Joseph M. , Mroczkowski Barbara , Doroshow James H.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Pet dogs with naturally occurring cancers play an important role in studies of cancer biology and drug development. We assessed tolerability, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships with a first-in-class small molecule inhibitor of valosin-containing protein (VCP/p97), CB-5339, administered to 24 tumor-bearing pet dogs. Tumor types assessed included solid malignancies, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma. Through a stepwise dose and schedule escalation schema, we determined the maximum tolerated dose to be 7.5 mg/kg when administered orally on a 4 days on, 3 days off schedule per week for 3 consecutive weeks. Adverse events were minimal and mainly related to the gastrointestinal system. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data suggest a relationship between exposure and modulation of targets related to induction of the unfolded protein response, but not to tolerability of the agent. An efficacy signal was detected in 33% (2/6) of dogs with multiple myeloma, consistent with a mechanism of action relating to induction of proteotoxic stress in a tumor type with abundant protein production. Clinical trials of CB-5339 in humans with acute myelogenous leukemia and multiple myeloma are ongoing.
Data from Inhibition of Mtorc1/2 and DNA-PK via CC-115 Synergizes with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Castellano Gina M. , Zeeshan Saman , Garbuzenko Olga B. , Sabaawy Hatim E. , Malhotra Jyoti , Minko Tamara , Pine Sharon R.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Only a small percentage (<1%) of patients with late-stage lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) are eligible for targeted therapy. Because PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, particularly Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase CA (PIK3CA), is dysregulated in two-thirds of LUSC, and DNA damage response pathways are enriched in LUSC, we tested whether CC-115, a dual mTORC1/2 and DNA-PK inhibitor, sensitizes LUSC to chemotherapy. We demonstrate that CC-115 synergizes with carboplatin in six of 14 NSCLC cell lines, primarily PIK3CA-mutant LUSC. Synergy was more common in cell lines that had decreased basal levels of activated AKT and DNA-PK, evidenced by reduced P-S473-AKT, P-Th308-AKT, and P-S2056-DNA-PKcs. CC-115 sensitized LUSC to carboplatin by inhibiting chemotherapy-induced AKT activation and maintaining apoptosis, particularly in PIK3CA-mutant cells lacking wild-type (WT) TP53. In addition, pathway analysis revealed that enrichments in the IFNα and IFNγ pathways were significantly associated with synergy. In multiple LUSC patient-derived xenograft and cell line tumor models, CC-115 plus platinum-based doublet chemotherapy significantly inhibited tumor growth and increased overall survival as compared with either treatment alone at clinically relevant dosing schedules. IHC and immunoblot analysis of CC-115–treated tumors demonstrated decreased P-Th308-AKT, P-S473-AKT, P-S235/236-S6, and P-S2056-DNA-PKcs, showing direct pharmacodynamic evidence of inhibited PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascades. Because PI3K pathway and DNA-PK inhibitors have shown toxicity in clinical trials, we assessed toxicity by examining weight and numerous organs in PRKDC-WT mice, which demonstrated that the combination treatment does not exacerbate the clinically accepted side effects of standard-of-care chemotherapy. This preclinical study provides strong support for the further investigation of CC-115 plus chemotherapy in LUSC.
Data from Inhibition of NF-κB DNA Binding Suppresses Myeloma Growth via Intracellular Redox and Tumor Microenvironment Modulation
Authors: Bariana Manpreet , Cassella Elena , Rateshwar Janice , Ouk Samedy , Liou Hsiou-Chi , Heller Claudia , Colorado Iriana , Feinman Rena , Makhdoom Ali , Siegel David S. , Heller Glenn , Tuckett Andrea , Mondello Patrizia , Zakrzewski Johannes L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell malignancy that is still largely incurable, despite considerable progress in recent years. NF-κB is a well-established therapeutic target in multiple myeloma, but none of the currently available treatment options offer direct, specific pharmacologic targeting of NF-κB transcriptional activity. Thus, we designed a novel direct NF-κB inhibitor (IT848) as a drug candidate with strong potential for clinical translation and conducted comprehensive in vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies in multiple myeloma cell lines, primary multiple myeloma cells, xenograft models, and immunocompetent mouse models of multiple myeloma. Here, we show that IT848 inhibits NF-κB activity through inhibition of DNA binding of all five NF-κB subunits. IT848 treatment of multiple myeloma cell lines and patient samples inhibited proliferation and induced caspase-dependent and independent apoptosis. In addition to direct NF-κB inhibitory effects, IT848 treatment altered the redox homeostasis of multiple myeloma cells through depletion of the reduced glutathione pool, selectively inducing oxidative stress in multiple myeloma but not in healthy cells. Multiple myeloma xenograft studies confirmed the efficacy of IT848 as single agent and in combination with bortezomib. Furthermore, IT848 significantly improved survival when combined with programmed death protein 1 inhibition, and correlative immune studies revealed that this clinical benefit was associated with suppression of regulatory T-cell infiltration of the bone marrow microenvironment. In conclusion, IT848 is a potent direct NF-κB inhibitor and inducer of oxidative stress specifically in tumor cells, displaying significant activity against multiple myeloma cells in vitro and in vivo, both as monotherapy as well as in combination with bortezomib or immune checkpoint blockade.
Data from Discovery of a Novel ATP-Competitive MEK Inhibitor DS03090629 that Overcomes Resistance Conferred by BRAF Overexpression in BRAF-Mutated Melanoma
Authors: Takano Kohei , Munehira Yoichi , Hatanaka Mana , Murakami Ryo , Shibata Yoshihiro , Shida Takeshi , Takeuchi Kosuke , Takechi Sho , Tabata Toshiki , Shimada Takashi , Kishikawa Shuhei , Matsui Yumi , Ubukata Osamu , Seki Takahiko , Kaneta Yasuyuki
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Patients with melanoma with activating BRAF mutations (BRAF V600E/K) initially respond to combination therapy of BRAF and MEK inhibitors. However, their clinical efficacy is limited by acquired resistance, in some cases driven by amplification of the mutant BRAF gene and subsequent reactivation of the MAPK pathway. DS03090629 is a novel and orally available MEK inhibitor that inhibits MEK in an ATP-competitive manner. In both in vitro and in vivo settings, potent inhibition of MEK by DS03090629 or its combination with the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib was demonstrated in a mutant BRAF-overexpressing melanoma cell line model that exhibited a higher MEK phosphorylation level than the parental cell line and then became resistant to dabrafenib and the MEK inhibitor trametinib. DS03090629 also exhibited superior efficacy against a melanoma cell line–expressing mutant MEK1 protein compared with dabrafenib and trametinib. Biophysical analysis revealed that DS03090629 retained its affinity for the MEK protein regardless of its phosphorylation status, whereas the affinity of trametinib declined when the MEK protein was phosphorylated. These results suggest that DS03090629 may be a novel therapeutic option for patients who acquire resistance to the current BRAF- and MEK-targeting therapies.
Data from First-in-Class Small Molecule to Inhibit CYP11A1 and Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis
Authors: Karimaa Mari , Riikonen Reetta , Kettunen Henna , Taavitsainen Päivi , Ramela Meri , Chrusciel Marcin , Karlsson Stefan , Rummakko Petteri , Simola Outi , Wohlfahrt Gerd , Hakulinen Pasi , Vuorela Annamari , Joensuu Heikki , Utriainen Tapio , Fizazi Karim , Oksala Riikka
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Binding of steroid hormones to their cognate receptors regulates the growth of most prostate and breast cancers. We hypothesized that CYP11A inhibition might halt the synthesis of all steroid hormones, because CYP11A is the only enzyme that catalyses the first step of steroid hormone biosynthesis. We speculated that a CYP11A inhibitor could be administered safely provided that the steroids essential for life are replaced. Virtual screening and systematic structure–activity relationship optimization were used to develop ODM-208, the first-in-class, selective, nonsteroidal, oral CYP11A1 inhibitor. Safety of ODM-208 was assessed in rats and Beagle dogs, and efficacy in a VCaP castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) xenograft mouse model, in mice and dogs, and in six patients with metastatic CRPC. Blood steroid hormone concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. ODM-208 binds to CYP11A1 and inhibited its enzymatic activity. ODM-208 administration led to rapid, complete, durable, and reversible inhibition of the steroid hormone biosynthesis in an adrenocortical carcinoma cell model in vitro, in adult noncastrated male mice and dogs, and in patients with CRPC. All measured serum steroid hormone concentrations reached undetectable levels within a few weeks from the start of ODM-208 administration. ODM-208 was well tolerated with steroid hormone replacement. The toxicity findings were considered related to CYP11A1 inhibition and were reversed after stopping of the compound administration. Steroid hormone biosynthesis can be effectively inhibited with a small-molecule inhibitor of CYP11A1. The findings suggest that administration of ODM-208 is feasible with concomitant corticosteroid replacement therapy.
Data from An Enzymatically Cleavable Tripeptide Linker for Maximizing the Therapeutic Index of Antibody–Drug Conjugates
Authors: Ha Summer Y.Y. , Anami Yasuaki , Yamazaki Chisato M. , Xiong Wei , Haase Candice M. , Olson Scott D. , Lee Jangsoon , Ueno Naoto T. , Zhang Ningyan , An Zhiqiang , Tsuchikama Kyoji
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Valine–citrulline is a protease-cleavable linker commonly used in many drug delivery systems, including antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) for cancer therapy. However, its suboptimal in vivo stability can cause various adverse effects such as neutropenia and hepatotoxicity, leading to dose delays or treatment discontinuation. Here, we report that glutamic acid–glycine–citrulline (EGCit) linkers have the potential to solve this clinical issue without compromising the ability of traceless drug release and ADC therapeutic efficacy. We demonstrate that our EGCit ADC resists neutrophil protease–mediated degradation and spares differentiating human neutrophils. Notably, our anti-HER2 ADC shows almost no sign of blood and liver toxicity in healthy mice at 80 mg kg−1. In contrast, at the same dose level, the FDA-approved anti-HER2 ADCs Kadcyla and Enhertu show increased levels of serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase and morphologic changes in liver tissues. Our EGCit conjugates also exert greater antitumor efficacy in multiple xenograft tumor models compared with Kadcyla and Enhertu. This linker technology could substantially broaden the therapeutic windows of ADCs and other drug delivery agents, providing clinical options with improved efficacy and safety.
Data from Venadaparib Is a Novel and Selective PARP Inhibitor with Improved Physicochemical Properties, Efficacy, and Safety
Authors: Lee Myongjae , Je In-Gyu , Kim Jeong Eun , Yoo Yeongran , Lim Jong-Ha , Jang Eunhye , Lee Yoonsuk , Song Dong Keun , Moon An-Na , Kim Jeong-Ah , Jeong Jinah , Park Joon-Tae , Lee Jung Woo , Yang Ji-Hoon , Hong Chang-Hee , Park Sun-Young , Park Young-Whan , Baek Nam Seok , Lee Sungsook , Ha Kyoung Soo , Choi SungKu , Lee Won Sik
Published: March 2024

Abstract
PARP inhibitors have been approved by the FDA for use in the treatment of patients with ovarian, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. PARP inhibitors show diverse suppressive effects on PARP family members and PARP-DNA trapping potency. These properties are associated with distinct safety/efficacy profiles. Here, we report the nonclinical characteristics of venadaparib (also known as IDX-1197 or NOV140101), a novel potent PARP inhibitor. The physiochemical properties of venadaparib were analyzed. Furthermore, the efficacy of venadaparib against PARP enzymes, PAR formation, and PARP trapping activities, and growth inhibition of cell lines with BRCA mutations were evaluated. Ex vivo and in vivo models were also established to study pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and toxicity. Venadaparib specifically inhibits PARP-1 and -2 enzymes. Oral administration of venadaparib HCl at doses above 12.5 mg/kg significantly reduced tumor growth in the OV_065 patient-derived xenograft model. Intratumoral PARP inhibition remained at over 90% until 24 hours after dosing. Venadaparib had wider safety margins than olaparib. Notably, venadaparib showed favorable physicochemical properties and superior anticancer effects in homologous recombination-deficient in vitro and in vivo models with improved safety profiles. Our results suggest the possibility of venadaparib as a next-generation PARP inhibitor. On the basis of these findings, phase Ib/IIa studies on the efficacy and safety of venadaparib have been initiated.
Data from CDK7 Inhibition Synergizes with Topoisomerase I Inhibition in Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells by Inducing Ubiquitin-Mediated Proteolysis of RNA Polymerase II
Authors: Sun Yilun , Zhang Yang , Schultz Christopher W. , Pommier Yves , Thomas Anish
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Small cell lung cancers (SCLC) are highly aggressive, and currently there are no available targeted therapies. To identify clinically actionable drug combinations, we analyzed our previously reported chemogenomics screens and identified a synergistically cytotoxic combination of the topoisomerase I (TOP1) inhibitor topotecan and cycle-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) inhibitor THZ1. Topotecan causes cell death by generating TOP1-induced DNA breaks and DNA-protein cross-links (TOP1-DPC) that require proteolysis by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway for their repair. We find that inhibition of the transcriptional kinase CDK7 by THZ1 induces ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation of RNA polymerase II and prevents the proteasomal degradation of TOP1-DPCs. We provide a mechanistic basis for combinatorial targeting of transcription using selective inhibitors of CDK7 and TOP1 in clinical trials to advance SCLC therapeutics.
Data from The SmgGDS Splice Variant SmgGDS-558 Is a Key Promoter of Tumor Growth and RhoA Signaling in Breast Cancer
Authors: Hauser Andrew D. , Bergom Carmen , Schuld Nathan J. , Chen Xiuxu , Lorimer Ellen L. , Huang Jian , Mackinnon Alexander C. , Williams Carol L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Breast cancer malignancy is promoted by the small GTPases RhoA and RhoC. SmgGDS is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that activates RhoA and RhoC in vitro. We previously reported that two splice variants of SmgGDS, SmgGDS-607, and SmgGDS-558, have different characteristics in binding and transport of small GTPases. To define the role of SmgGDS in breast cancer, we tested the expression of SmgGDS in breast tumors, and the role of each splice variant in proliferation, tumor growth, Rho activation, and NF-κB transcriptional activity in breast cancer cells. We show upregulated SmgGDS protein expression in breast cancer samples compared with normal breast tissue. In addition, Kaplan–Meier survival curves indicated that patients with high SmgGDS expression in their tumors had worse clinical outcomes. Knockdown of SmgGDS-558, but not SmgGDS-607, in breast cancer cells decreased proliferation, in vivo tumor growth, and RhoA activity. Furthermore, we found that SmgGDS promoted a Rho-dependent activation of the transcription factor NF-κB, which provides a potential mechanism to define how SmgGDS-mediated activation of RhoA promotes breast cancer. This study demonstrates that elevated SmgGDS expression in breast tumors correlates with poor survival, and that SmgGDS-558 plays a functional role in breast cancer malignancy. Taken together, these findings define SmgGDS-558 as a unique promoter of RhoA and NF-κB activity and a novel therapeutic target in breast cancer.

Implications: This study defines a new mechanism to regulate the activities of RhoA and NF-κB in breast cancer cells, and identifies SmgGDS-558 as a novel promoter of breast cancer malignancy. Mol Cancer Res; 12(1); 130–42. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Suppression of Ser/Thr Phosphatase 4 (PP4C/PPP4C) Mimics a Novel Post-Mitotic Action of Fostriecin, Producing Mitotic Slippage Followed by Tetraploid Cell Death
Authors: Theobald Benjamin , Bonness Kathy , Musiyenko Alla , Andrews Joel F. , Urban Gudrun , Huang Xizhong , Dean Nicholas M. , Honkanen Richard E.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Fostriecin is a natural product purified from Sterptomyces extracts with antitumor activity sufficient to warrant human clinical trials. Unfortunately, difficulties associated with supply and stable drug formulation stalled further development. At a molecular level, fostriecin is known to act as a catalytic inhibitor of four PPP-family phosphatases, and reports describing the design of molecules in this class suggest derivatives targeting enzymes within the fostriecin-sensitive subfamily can be successful. However, it is not clear if the tumor-selective cytotoxicity of fostriecin results from the inhibition of a specific phosphatase, multiple phosphatases, or a limited subset of fostriecin sensitive phosphatases. How the inhibition of sensitive phosphatases contributes to tumor-selective cytotoxicity is also not clear. Here, high-content time-lapse imaging of live cells revealed novel insight into the cellular actions of fostriecin, showing that fostriecin-induced apoptosis is not simply induced following a sustained mitotic arrest. Rather, apoptosis occurred in an apparent second interphase produced when tetraploid cells undergo mitotic slippage. Comparison of the actions of fostriecin and antisense-oligonucleotides specifically targeting human fostriecin-sensitive phosphatases revealed that the suppression PP4C alone is sufficient to mimic many actions of fostriecin. Importantly, targeted suppression of PP4C induced apoptosis, with death occurring in tetraploid cells following mitotic slippage. This effect was not observed following the suppression of PP1C, PP2AC, or PP5C. These data clarify PP4C as a fostriecin-sensitive phosphatase and demonstrate that the suppression of PP4C triggers mitotic slippage/apoptosis.

Implications: Future development of fostriecin class inhibitors should consider PP4C as a potentially important target. Mol Cancer Res; 11(8); 845–55. ©2013 AACR.
Data from C-C Chemokine Receptor 5 on Pulmonary Mesenchymal Cells Promotes Experimental Metastasis via the Induction of Erythroid Differentiation Regulator 1
Authors: Mango Robert L. , Wu Qing Ping , West Michelle , McCook Everett C. , Serody Jonathan S. , van Deventer Hendrik W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
C-C Chemokine receptor 5 knockout (Ccr5−/−) mice develop fewer experimental pulmonary metastases than wild-type (WT) mice. This phenomenon was explored by applying gene expression profiling to the lungs of mice with these metastases. Consequently, erythroid differentiation regulator 1 (Erdr1) was identified as upregulated in the WT mice. Though commonly associated with bone marrow stroma, Erdr1 was differentially expressed in WT pulmonary mesenchymal cells (PMC) and murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEF). Moreover, the Ccr5 ligand Ccl4 increased its expression by 3.36 ± 0.14–fold. Ccr5 signaling was dependent on the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (Map2k) but not the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k) pathway because treatment with U0126 inhibited upregulation of Erdr1, but treatment with LY294002 increased the expression by 3.44 ± 0.92–fold (P < 0.05). The effect Erdr1 on B16-F10 melanoma metastasis was verified by the adoptive transfer of WT MEFs into Ccr5−/− mice. In this model, MEFs that had been transduced with Erdr1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) lowered metastasis by 33% compared with control transduced MEFs. The relevance of ERDR1 on human disease was assessed by coculturing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells with M2-10B4 stromal cells that had been transfected with shRNA or control plasmids. After 96 hours of coculture, the cell counts were higher with control cell lines than with Erdr1 knockdown lines [odds ratio (OR), 1.88 ± 0.27, 2.52 ± 0.66, respectively]. This increase was associated with a decrease in apoptotic cells (OR, 0.69 ± 0.18, 0.58 ± 0.12, respectively).

Implications: Therefore, ERDR1 is a stromal-derived factor that promotes cancer cell survival in vitro and in an experimental metastasis model. Mol Cancer Res; 12(2); 274–82. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Chemotherapy-Induced Inflammatory Gene Signature and Protumorigenic Phenotype in Pancreatic CAFs via Stress-Associated MAPK
Authors: Toste Paul A. , Nguyen Andrew H. , Kadera Brian E. , Duong Mindy , Wu Nanping , Gawlas Irmina , Tran Linh M. , Bikhchandani Mihir , Li Luyi , Patel Sanjeet G. , Dawson David W. , Donahue Timothy R.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a characteristically dense stroma comprised predominantly of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). CAFs promote tumor growth, metastasis, and treatment resistance. This study aimed to investigate the molecular changes and functional consequences associated with chemotherapy treatment of PDAC CAFs. Chemoresistant immortalized CAFs (R-CAF) were generated by continuous incubation in gemcitabine. Gene expression differences between treatment-naïve CAFs (N-CAF) and R-CAFs were compared by array analysis. Functionally, tumor cells (TC) were exposed to N-CAF– or R-CAF–conditioned media and assayed for migration, invasion, and viability in vitro. Furthermore, a coinjection (TC and CAF) model was used to compare tumor growth in vivo. R-CAFs increased TC viability, migration, and invasion compared with N-CAFs. In vivo, TCs coinjected with R-CAFs grew larger than those accompanied by N-CAFs. Genomic analysis demonstrated that R-CAFs had increased expression of various inflammatory mediators, similar to the previously described senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). In addition, SASP mediators were found to be upregulated in response to short duration treatment with gemcitabine in both immortalized and primary CAFs. Inhibition of stress-associated MAPK signaling (P38 MAPK or JNK) attenuated SASP induction as well as the tumor-supportive functions of chemotherapy-treated CAFs in vitro and in vivo. These results identify a negative consequence of chemotherapy on the PDAC microenvironment that could be targeted to improve the efficacy of current therapeutic regimens.

Implications: Chemotherapy treatment of pancreatic cancer–associated fibroblasts results in a proinflammatory response driven by stress-associated MAPK signaling that enhances tumor cell growth and invasiveness. Mol Cancer Res; 14(5); 437–47. ©2016 AACR.
Data from E2F4 Program Is Predictive of Progression and Intravesical Immunotherapy Efficacy in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Cheng Chao , Varn Frederick S. , Marsit Carmen J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Bladder cancer is a common malignant disease, with non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) representing the majority of tumors. This cancer subtype is typically treated by transurethral resection. In spite of treatment, up to 70% of patients show local recurrences. Intravesical BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) immunotherapy has been widely used to treat NMIBC, but it fails to suppress recurrence of bladder tumors in up to 40% of patients. Therefore, the development of prognostic markers is needed to predict the progression of bladder cancer and the efficacy of intravesical BCG treatment. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of an E2F4 signature for prognostic prediction of bladder cancer. E2F4 scores for each sample in a bladder cancer expression dataset were calculated by summarizing the relative expression levels of E2F4 target genes identified by ChIP-seq, and then the scores were used to stratify patients into good- and poor-outcome groups. The molecular signature was investigated in a single bladder cancer dataset and then its effectiveness was confirmed in two meta-bladder datasets consisting of specimens from multiple independent studies. These results were consistent in different datasets and demonstrate that the E2F4 score is predictive of clinical outcomes in bladder cancer, with patients whose tumors exhibit an E2F4 score >0 having significantly shorter survival times than those with an E2F4 score <0, in both non–muscle-invasive, and muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Furthermore, although intravesical BCG immunotherapy can significantly improve the clinical outcome of NMIBC patients with positive E2F4 scores (E2F4>0 group), it does not show significant treatment effect for those with negative scores (E2F4<0 group).

Implications: The E2F4 signature can be applied to predict the progression/recurrence and the responsiveness of patients to intravesical BCG immunotherapy in bladder cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 13(9); 1316–24. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Contribution of Tumor Heterogeneity in a New Animal Model of CNS Tumors
Authors: Chen Fuyi , Becker Albert J. , LoTurco Joseph J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The etiology of central nervous system (CNS) tumor heterogeneity is unclear. To clarify this issue, a novel animal model was developed of glioma and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid-like tumor (ATRT) produced in rats by nonviral cellular transgenesis initiated in utero. This model system affords the opportunity for directed oncogene expression, clonal labeling, and addition of tumor-modifying transgenes. By directing HRasV12 and AKT transgene expression in different cell populations with promoters that are active ubiquitously (CAG promoter), astrocyte-selective (glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter), or oligodendrocyte-selective (myelin basic protein promoter) we generated glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic oligoastrocytoma, respectively. Importantly, the glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic oligoastrocytoma tumors were distinguishable at both the cellular and molecular level. Furthermore, proneural basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors, Ngn2 (NEUROG2) or NeuroD1, were expressed along with HRasV12 and AKT in neocortical radial glia, leading to the formation of highly lethal ATRT like tumors. This study establishes a unique model in which determinants of CNS tumor diversity can be parsed out and reveals that both mutation and expression of neurogenic bHLH transcription factors contribute to CNS tumor diversity.

Implications: A novel CNS tumor model reveals that oncogenic events occurring in disparate cell types and/or molecular contexts lead to different tumor types; these findings shed light on the sources of brain tumor heterogeneity. Mol Cancer Res; 12(5); 742–53. ©2014 AACR.
Data from EGFR Downregulation after Anti-EGFR Therapy Predicts the Antitumor Effect in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Okada Yasuyuki , Kimura Tetsuo , Nakagawa Tadahiko , Okamoto Koichi , Fukuya Akira , Goji Takahiro , Fujimoto Shota , Sogabe Masahiro , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Muguruma Naoki , Tsuji Yasushi , Okahisa Toshiya , Takayama Tetsuji
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Anti-EGFR mAb is reported to induce EGFR internalization in colorectal cancer cells. However, the biological relevance of EGFR internalization with anti-EGFR mAb is unknown. Therefore, the relevance of EGFR downregulation with anti-EGFR mAb to antitumor activity in colorectal cancer cells was investigated. Quantification of EGFR on the cell surface before cetuximab treatment was assessed by flow cytometry, and its growth-inhibitory effects were measured by Trypan blue exclusion, in 10 RAS, BRAF wild-type colorectal cancer cell lines, but there was no significant correlation between EGFR number and its growth-inhibitory effect. However, a significant correlation existed between the percentage decrease in the number of EGFRs after cetuximab treatment and its growth-inhibitory effect in those cell lines. Treatment with TGFα, a ligand for EGFR, induced EGFR internalization in colorectal cancer cells, but most EGFRs subsequently recycled to the cell surface, consistent with previous studies. While cetuximab treatment induced EGFR internalization, most receptors subsequently translocated into the late endosome, leading to lysosomal degradation, as revealed by immunoblotting and double immunofluorescence. Cetuximab-sensitive colorectal cancer cells showed greater EGFR internalization, stronger cell growth inhibition, and more augmented apoptotic signals than nonsensitive cells. IHC for EGFR, performed using an EGFR pharmDx Kit (mouse anti-human EGFR mAb clone 2-18C9), in clinical specimens before and after anti-EGFR mAb therapy in 13 colorectal cancer patients showed a significant correlation between the response to anti-EGFR mAb and decreased staining after therapy.

Implications: This report clearly demonstrates that anti-EGFR mAb facilitates internalization and subsequent degradation of EGFRs in lysosomes, which is an important determinant of the efficacy of anti-EGFR mAb treatment for colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 15(10); 1445–54. ©2017 AACR.
Data from CAF-Secreted IGFBPs Regulate Breast Cancer Cell Anoikis
Authors: Weigel Kelsey J. , Jakimenko Ana , Conti Brooke A. , Chapman Sarah E. , Kaliney William J. , Leevy W. Matthew , Champion Matthew M. , Schafer Zachary T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are now widely appreciated for their contributions to tumor progression. However, the ability of CAFs to regulate anoikis, detachment-induced cell death, has yet to be investigated. Here, a new role for CAFs in blocking anoikis in multiple cell lines, facilitating luminal filling in three-dimensional cell culture, and promoting anchorage-independent growth is defined. In addition, a novel mechanism underlying anoikis inhibition is discovered. Importantly, it was demonstrated that CAFs secrete elevated quantities of insulin-like growth factor–binding proteins (IGFBPs) that are both necessary for CAF-mediated anoikis inhibition and sufficient to block anoikis in the absence of CAFs. Furthermore, these data reveal a unique antiapoptotic mechanism for IGFBPs: the stabilization of the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1. In aggregate, these data delineate a novel role for CAFs in promoting cell survival during detachment and unveil an additional mechanism by which the tumor microenvironment contributes to cancer progression. These results also identify IGFBPs as potential targets for the development of novel chemotherapeutics designed to eliminate detached cancer cells.

Implications: The ability of CAF-secreted IGFBPs to block anoikis in breast cancer represents a novel target for the development of therapeutics aimed at specifically eliminating extracellular matrix–detached breast cancer cells. Mol Cancer Res; 12(6); 855–66. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Adipocytes Sequester and Metabolize the Chemotherapeutic Daunorubicin
Authors: Sheng Xia , Parmentier Jean-Hugues , Tucci Jonathan , Pei Hua , Cortez-Toledo Omar , Dieli-Conwright Christina M. , Oberley Matthew J. , Neely Michael , Orgel Etan , Louie Stan G. , Mittelman Steven D.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Obesity is associated with poorer outcome for many cancers. Previously, we observed that adipocytes protect acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells from the anthracycline, daunorubicin. In this study, it is determined whether adipocytes clear daunorubicin from the tumor microenvironment (TME). Intracellular daunorubicin concentrations were evaluated using fluorescence. Daunorubicin and its largely inactive metabolite, daunorubicinol, were analytically measured in media, cells, and tissues using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Expression of daunorubicin-metabolizing enzymes, aldo-keto reductases (AKR1A1, AKR1B1, AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKR1C3, and AKR7A2) and carbonyl reductases (CBR1, CBR3), in human adipose tissue, were queried using public databases and directly measured by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and immunoblot. Adipose tissue AKR activity was measured by colorimetric assay. Adipocytes absorbed and efficiently metabolized daunorubicin to daunorubicinol, reducing its antileukemia effect in the local microenvironment. Murine studies confirmed adipose tissue conversion of daunorubicin to daunorubicinol in vivo. Adipocytes expressed high levels of AKR and CBR isoenzymes that deactivate anthracyclines. Indeed, adipocyte protein levels of AKR1C1, AKR1C2, and AKR1C3 are higher than all other human noncancerous cell types. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that adipocytes metabolize and inactivate a therapeutic drug. Adipocyte-mediated daunorubicin metabolism reduces active drug concentration in the TME. These results could be clinically important for adipocyte-rich cancer microenvironments such as omentum, breast, and marrow. As AKR and CBR enzymes metabolize several drugs, and can be expressed at higher levels in obese individuals, this proof-of-principle finding has important implications across many diseases.

Implications: Adipocyte absorption and metabolism of chemotherapies can reduce cytotoxicity in cancer microenvironments, potentially contributing to poorer survival outcomes. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1704–13. ©2017 AACR.
Data from PI3K and Bcl-2 Inhibition Primes Glioblastoma Cells to Apoptosis through Downregulation of Mcl-1 and Phospho-BAD
Authors: Pareja Fresia , Macleod David , Shu Chang , Crary John F. , Canoll Peter D. , Ross Alonzo H. , Siegelin Markus D.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly malignant human brain neoplasm with limited therapeutic options. GBMs display a deregulated apoptotic pathway with high levels of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family of proteins and overt activity of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. Therefore, combined interference of the PI3K pathway and the Bcl-2 family of proteins is a reasonable therapeutic strategy. ABT-263 (Navitoclax), an orally available small-molecule Bcl-2 inhibitor, and GDC-0941, a PI3K inhibitor, were used to treat established glioblastoma and glioblastoma neurosphere cells, alone or in combination. Although GDC-0941 alone had a modest effect on cell viability, treatment with ABT-263 displayed a marked reduction of cell viability and induction of apoptotic cell death. Moreover, combinatorial therapy using ABT-263 and GDC-0941 showed an enhanced effect, with a further decrease in cellular viability. Furthermore, combination treatment abrogated the ability of stem cell–like glioma cells to form neurospheres. ABT-263 and GDC-0941, in combination, resulted in a consistent and significant increase of Annexin V positive cells and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential compared with either monotherapy. The combination treatment led to enhanced cleavage of both initiator and effector caspases. Mechanistically, GDC-0941 depleted pAKT (Serine 473) levels and suppressed Mcl-1 protein levels, lowering the threshold for the cytotoxic actions of ABT-263. GDC-0941 decreased Mcl-1 in a posttranslational manner and significantly decreased the half-life of Mcl-1 protein. Ectopic expression of human Mcl-1 mitigated apoptotic cell death induced by the drug combination. Furthermore, GDC-0941 modulated the phosphorylation status of BAD, thereby further enhancing ABT-263–mediated cell death.

Implications: Combination therapy with ABT-263 and GDC-0941 has novel therapeutic potential by specifically targeting aberrantly active, deregulated pathways in GBM, overcoming endogenous resistance to apoptosis. Mol Cancer Res; 12(7); 987–1001. ©2014 AACR.