bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Myeloid WNT7b Mediates the Angiogenic Switch and Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yeo Eun-Jin , Cassetta Luca , Qian Bin-Zhi , Lewkowich Ian , Li Jiu-feng , Stefater James A. , Smith April N. , Wiechmann Lisa S. , Wang Yihong , Pollard Jeffrey W. , Lang Richard A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Oncogenic targets acting in both tumor cells and tumor stromal cells may offer special therapeutic appeal. Interrogation of the Oncomine database revealed that 52 of 53 human breast carcinomas showed substantial upregulation of WNT family ligand WNT7B. Immunolabeling of human mammary carcinoma showed that WNT7B immunoreactivity was associated with both tumor cells and with tumor-associated macrophages. In the MMTV-PymT mouse model of mammary carcinoma, we found tumor progression relied upon WNT7B produced by myeloid cells in the microenvironment. Wnt7b deletion in myeloid cells reduced the mass and volume of tumors due to a failure in the angiogenic switch. In the tumor overall, there was no change in expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway target genes, but in vascular endothelial cells (VEC), expression of these genes was reduced, suggesting that VECs respond to Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Mechanistic investigations revealed that failure of the angiogenic switch could be attributed to reduced Vegfa mRNA and protein expression in VECs, a source of VEGFA mRNA in the tumor that was limiting in the absence of myeloid WNT7B. We also noted a dramatic reduction in lung metastasis associated with decreased macrophage-mediated tumor cell invasion. Together, these results illustrated the critical role of myeloid WNT7B in tumor progression, acting at the levels of angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. We suggest that therapeutic suppression of WNT7B signaling might be advantageous due to targeting multiple aspects of tumor progression. Cancer Res; 74(11); 2962–73. ©2014 AACR.
Data from The Insulin Receptor Negatively Regulates the Action of Pseudomonas Toxin-Based Immunotoxins and Native Pseudomonas Toxin
Authors: Liu Xiu Fen , FitzGerald David J. , Pastan Ira
Published: March 2024

Abstract
SS1P is a recombinant immunotoxin composed of an antimesothelin Fv fragment fused to a truncated portion of Pseudomonas exotoxin A. SS1P targets and kills mesothelin-expressing tumors, which include mesothlioma as well as ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancers. SS1P is currently in clinical trials in mesothelioma. Because insulin acting through the insulin receptor is a survival factor for many cancer cell lines, we explored how lowering insulin receptor level would affect the cytotoxic action of SS1P. We show here that siRNA knockdown of the insulin receptor enhanced the cytotoxic action of native Pseudomonas exotoxin and enhanced SS1P toxicity on several human cell lines, but did not affect the response to other cytotoxic agents such as TRAIL, etoposide, and cycloheximide. To determine how insulin receptor knockdown enhances SS1P action, we analyzed various steps involved in cell killing. We found that insulin receptor knockdown increases the cleavage of SS1P by furin, which allows more toxin to reach the cytosol and inactivate elongation factor 2. These findings indicate that the insulin receptor negatively regulates immunotoxin action. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2281–8. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Adjuvants That Improve the Ratio of Antigen-Specific Effector to Regulatory T Cells Enhance Tumor Immunity
Authors: Perret Rachel , Sierro Sophie R. , Botelho Natalia K. , Corgnac Stéphanie , Donda Alena , Romero Pedro
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Antitumor immunity is strongly influenced by the balance of tumor antigen-specific effector T cells (Teff) and regulatory T cells (Treg). However, the impact that vaccine adjuvants have in regulating the balance of antigen-specific T-cell populations is not well understood. We found that antigen-specific Tregs were induced following subcutaneous vaccination with either OVA or melanoma-derived peptides, with a restricted expansion of Teffs. Addition of the adjuvants CpG-ODN or Poly(I:C) preferentially amplified Teffs over Tregs, dramatically increasing the antigen-specific Teff:Treg ratios and inducing polyfunctional effector cells. In contrast, two other adjuvants, imiquimod and Quil A saponin, favored an expansion of antigen-specific Tregs and failed to increase Teff:Treg ratios. Following therapeutic vaccination of tumor-bearing mice, high ratios of tumor-specific Teffs:Tregs in draining lymph nodes were associated with enhanced CD8+ T-cell infiltration at the tumor site and a durable rejection of tumors. Vaccine formulations of peptide+CpG-ODN or Poly(I:C) induced selective production of proinflammatory type I cytokines early after vaccination. This environment promoted CD8+ and CD4+ Teff expansion over that of antigen-specific Tregs, tipping the Teff to Treg balance to favor effector cells. Our findings advance understanding of the influence of different adjuvants on T-cell populations, facilitating the rational design of more effective cancer vaccines. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6597–608. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Loss of the Polycomb Mark from Bivalent Promoters Leads to Activation of Cancer-Promoting Genes in Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Hahn Maria A. , Li Arthur X. , Wu Xiwei , Yang Richard , Drew David A. , Rosenberg Daniel W. , Pfeifer Gerd P.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In colon tumors, the transcription of many genes becomes deregulated by poorly defined epigenetic mechanisms that have been studied mainly in established cell lines. In this study, we used frozen human colon tissues to analyze patterns of histone modification and DNA cytosine methylation in cancer and matched normal mucosa specimens. DNA methylation is strongly targeted to bivalent H3K4me3- and H3K27me3-associated promoters, which lose both histone marks and acquire DNA methylation. However, we found that loss of the Polycomb mark H3K27me3 from bivalent promoters was accompanied often by activation of genes associated with cancer progression, including numerous stem cell regulators, oncogenes, and proliferation-associated genes. Indeed, we found many of these same genes were also activated in patients with ulcerative colitis where chronic inflammation predisposes them to colon cancer. Based on our findings, we propose that a loss of Polycomb repression at bivalent genes combined with an ensuing selection for tumor-driving events plays a major role in cancer progression. Cancer Res; 74(13); 3617–29. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Identification of Inherited Genetic Variations Influencing Prognosis in Early-Onset Breast Cancer
Authors: Rafiq Sajjad , Tapper William , Collins Andrew , Khan Sofia , Politopoulos Ioannis , Gerty Sue , Blomqvist Carl , Couch Fergus J. , Nevanlinna Heli , Liu Jianjun , Eccles Diana
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have begun to investigate associations between inherited genetic variations and breast cancer prognosis. Here, we report our findings from a GWAS conducted in 536 patients with early-onset breast cancer aged 40 or less at diagnosis and with a mean follow-up period of 4.1 years (SD = 1.96). Patients were selected from the Prospective Study of Outcomes in Sporadic versus Hereditary breast cancer. A Bonferroni correction for multiple testing determined that a P value of 1.0 × 10−7 was a statistically significant association signal. Following quality control, we identified 487,496 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) for association tests in stage 1. In stage 2, 35 SNPs with the most significant associations were genotyped in 1,516 independent cases from the same early-onset cohort. In stage 2, 11 SNPs remained associated in the same direction (P ≤ 0.05). Fixed effects meta-analysis models identified one SNP associated at close to genome wide level of significance 556 kb upstream of the ARRDC3 locus [HR = 1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.33–1.96; P = 9.5 × 10−7]. Four further associations at or close to the PBX1, RORα, NTN1, and SYT6 loci also came close to genome-wide significance levels (P = 10−6). In the first ever GWAS for the identification of SNPs associated with prognosis in patients with early-onset breast cancer, we report a SNP upstream of the ARRDC3 locus as potentially associated with prognosis (median follow-up time for genotypes: CC = 4 years, CT = 3 years, and TT = 2.7 years; Wilcoxon rank-sum test CC vs. CT, P = 4 × 10−4 and CT vs. TT, P = 0.76). Four further loci may also be associated with prognosis. Cancer Res; 73(6); 1883–91. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of CSF-1 Receptor Improves the Antitumor Efficacy of Adoptive Cell Transfer Immunotherapy
Authors: Mok Stephen , Koya Richard C. , Tsui Christopher , Xu Jingying , Robert Lídia , Wu Lily , Graeber Thomas G. , West Brian L. , Bollag Gideon , Ribas Antoni
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) recruits tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells (TIM) that suppress tumor immunity, including M2 macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). The CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R) is a tyrosine kinase that is targetable by small molecule inhibitors such as PLX3397. In this study, we used a syngeneic mouse model of BRAFV600E-driven melanoma to evaluate the ability of PLX3397 to improve the efficacy of adoptive cell therapy (ACT). In this model, we found that combined treatment produced superior antitumor responses compared with single treatments. In mice receiving the combined treatment, a dramatic reduction of TIMs and a skewing of MHCIIlow to MHCIIhi macrophages were observed. Furthermore, mice receiving the combined treatment exhibited an increase in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and T cells, as revealed by real-time imaging in vivo. In support of these observations, TILs from these mice released higher levels of IFN-γ. In conclusion, CSF-1R blockade with PLX3397 improved the efficacy of ACT immunotherapy by inhibiting the intratumoral accumulation of immunosuppressive macrophages. Cancer Res; 74(1); 153–61. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Inherited Variation in miR-290 Expression Suppresses Breast Cancer Progression by Targeting the Metastasis Susceptibility Gene Arid4b
Authors: Goldberger Natalie , Walker Renard C. , Kim Chang Hee , Winter Scott , Hunter Kent W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The metastatic cascade is a complex and extremely inefficient process with many potential barriers. Understanding this process is of critical importance because the majority of cancer mortality is associated with metastatic disease. Recently, it has become increasingly clear that microRNAs (miRNA) play important roles in tumorigenesis and metastasis, yet few studies have examined how germline variations may dysregulate miRNAs, in turn affecting metastatic potential. To explore this possibility, the highly metastatic MMTV-PyMT mice were crossed with 25 AKXD (AKR/J × DBA/2J) recombinant inbred strains to produce F1 progeny with varying metastatic indices. When mammary tumors from the F1 progeny were analyzed by miRNA microarray, miR-290 (containing miR-290-3p and miR-290-5p) was identified as a top candidate progression-associated miRNA. The microarray results were validated in vivo when miR-290 upregulation in two independent breast cancer cell lines suppressed both primary tumor and metastatic growth. Computational analysis identified breast cancer progression gene Arid4b as a top target of miR-290-3p, which was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Surprisingly, pathway analysis identified estrogen receptor (ER) signaling as the top canonical pathway affected by miR-290 upregulation. Further analysis showed that ER levels were elevated in miR-290–expressing tumors and positively correlated with apoptosis. Taken together, our results suggest miR-290 targets Arid4b while simultaneously enhancing ER signaling and increasing apoptosis, thereby suppressing breast cancer progression. This, to the best of our knowledge, is the first example of inherited differences in miRNA expression playing a role in breast cancer progression. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2671–81. ©2013 AACR.
Data from FGF-2 Disrupts Mitotic Stability in Prostate Cancer through the Intracellular Trafficking Protein CEP57
Authors: Cuevas Rolando , Korzeniewski Nina , Tolstov Yanis , Hohenfellner Markus , Duensing Stefan
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Malignant tumors with deregulated FGF-2 expression such as prostate cancer are also frequently aneuploid. Aneuploidy can be caused by cell division errors due to extra centrosomes and mitotic spindle poles. However, a link between FGF-2 overexpression and chromosome missegregation has so far been elusive. Here, we show that FGF-2 rapidly uncouples centrosome duplication from the cell division cycle in prostate cancer cells through CEP57, an intracellular FGF-2–binding and trafficking factor. CEP57 was initially identified as a regulator of centriole overduplication in an RNA interference screen. We subsequently found that CEP57 rapidly stimulates centriole overduplication and mitotic defects when overexpressed and is required not only for FGF-2–induced centriole overduplication but also for normal centriole duplication. We provide evidence that CEP57 functions by modulating tubulin acetylation, thereby promoting daughter centriole stability. CEP57 was found to be overexpressed on the mRNA and protein level in a subset of prostate cancers, of which the vast majority also showed FGF-2 upregulation. Taken together, our results show an unexpected link between altered microenvironmental signaling cues such as FGF-2 overexpression and mitotic instability and provide a rationale for the therapeutic targeting of the FGF-2/FGFR1/CEP57 axis in prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 73(4); 1400–10. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Expressing CXCL14 Rely upon NOS1-Derived Nitric Oxide Signaling for Their Tumor-Supporting Properties
Authors: Augsten Martin , Sjöberg Elin , Frings Oliver , Vorrink Sabine U. , Frijhoff Jeroen , Olsson Eleonor , Borg Åke , Östman Arne
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) stimulate tumor growth and metastasis. Signals supporting CAF function are thus emerging as candidate therapeutic targets in the tumor microenvironment. The chemokine CXCL14 is a potent inducer of CAF protumorigenic functions. This study is aimed at learning how the protumoral functions of CXCL14-expressing CAF are maintained. We found that the nitric oxide synthase NOS1 is upregulated in CXCL14-expressing CAF and in fibroblasts stimulated with CXCL14. Induction of Nos1 was associated with oxidative stress and occurred together with activation of NRF2 and HIF1α signaling in CXCL14-expressing CAF. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of NOS1 reduced the growth of CXCL14-expressing fibroblasts along with their ability to promote tumor formation following coinjection with prostate or breast cancer cells. Tumor analysis revealed reduced macrophage infiltration, with NOS1 downregulation in CXCL14-expressing CAF and lymphangiogenesis as a novel component of CXCL14-promoted tumor growth. Collectively, our findings defined key components of a signaling network that maintains the protumoral functions of CXCL14-stimulated CAF, and they identified NOS1 as intervention target for CAF-directed cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 74(11); 2999–3010. ©2014 AACR.
Data from CHD1 Is a 5q21 Tumor Suppressor Required for ERG Rearrangement in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Burkhardt Lia , Fuchs Sarah , Krohn Antje , Masser Sawinee , Mader Malte , Kluth Martina , Bachmann Frederik , Huland Hartwig , Steuber Thomas , Graefen Markus , Schlomm Thorsten , Minner Sarah , Sauter Guido , Sirma Hüseyin , Simon Ronald
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Deletions involving the chromosomal band 5q21 are among the most frequent alterations in prostate cancer. Using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays, we mapped a 1.3 megabase minimally deleted region including only the repulsive guidance molecule B (RGMB) and chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 1 (CHD1) genes. Functional analyses showed that CHD1 is an essential tumor suppressor. FISH analysis of 2,093 prostate cancers revealed a strong association between CHD1 deletion, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) biochemical failure (P = 0.0038), and absence of ERG fusion (P < 0.0001). We found that inactivation of CHD1 in vitro prevents formation of ERG rearrangements due to impairment of androgen receptor (AR)-dependent transcription, a prerequisite for ERG translocation. CHD1 is required for efficient recruitment of AR to responsive promoters and regulates expression of known AR-responsive tumor suppressor genes, including NKX3-1, FOXO1, and PPARγ. Our study establishes CHD1 as the 5q21 tumor suppressor gene in prostate cancer and shows a key role of this chromatin remodeling factor in prostate cancer biology. Cancer Res; 73(9); 2795–805. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Loss of TGF-β Adaptor β2SP Activates Notch Signaling and SOX9 Expression in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Song Shumei , Maru Dipen M. , Ajani Jaffer A. , Chan Chia-Hsin , Honjo Soichiro , Lin Hui-Kuan , Correa Arlene , Hofstetter Wayne L. , Davila Marta , Stroehlein John , Mishra Lopa
Published: March 2024

Abstract
TGF-β and Notch signaling pathways play important roles in regulating self-renewal of stem cells and gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. Loss of TGF-β signaling components activates Notch signaling in esophageal adenocarcinoma, but the basis for this effect has been unclear. Here we report that loss of TGF-β adapter β2SP (SPNB2) activates Notch signaling and its target SOX9 in primary fibroblasts or esophageal adenocarcinoma cells. Expression of the stem cell marker SOX9 was markedly higher in esophageal adenocarcinoma tumor tissues than normal tissues, and its higher nuclear staining in tumors correlated with poorer survival and lymph node invasion in esophageal adenocarcinoma patients. Downregulation of β2SP by lentivirus short hairpin RNA increased SOX9 transcription and expression, enhancing nuclear localization for both active Notch1 (intracellular Notch1, ICN1) and SOX9. In contrast, reintroduction into esophageal adenocarcinoma cells of β2SP and a dominant-negative mutant of the Notch coactivator mastermind-like (dnMAN) decreased SOX9 promoter activity. Tumor sphere formation and invasive capacity in vitro and tumor growth in vivo were increased in β2SP-silenced esophageal adenocarcinoma cells. Conversely, SOX9 silencing rescued the phenotype of esophageal adenocarcinoma cells with loss of β2SP. Interaction between Smad3 and ICN1 via Smad3 MH1 domain was also observed, with loss of β2SP increasing the binding between these proteins, inducing expression of Notch targets SOX9 and C-MYC, and decreasing expression of TGF-β targets p21(CDKN1A), p27 (CDKN1B), and E-cadherin. Taken together, our findings suggest that loss of β2SP switches TGF-β signaling from tumor suppression to tumor promotion by engaging Notch signaling and activating SOX9. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2159–69. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Cancer Stem-like Cells Derived from Chemoresistant Tumors Have a Unique Capacity to Prime Tumorigenic Myeloid Cells
Authors: Yamashina Tsunaki , Baghdadi Muhammad , Yoneda Akihiro , Kinoshita Ichiro , Suzu Shinya , Dosaka-Akita Hirotoshi , Jinushi Masahisa
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Resistance to anticancer therapeutics greatly affects the phenotypic and functional properties of tumor cells, but how chemoresistance contributes to the tumorigenic activities of cancer stem-like cells remains unclear. In this study, we found that a characteristic of cancer stem-like cells from chemoresistant tumors (CSC-R) is the ability to produce a variety of proinflammatory cytokines and to generate M2-like immunoregulatory myeloid cells from CD14+ monocytes. Furthermore, we identified the IFN-regulated transcription factor IRF5 as a CSC-R–specific factor critical for promoting M-CSF production and generating tumorigenic myeloid cells. Importantly, myeloid cells primed with IRF5+ CSC-R facilitate the tumorigenic and stem cell activities of bulk tumors. Importantly, the activation of IRF5/M-CSF pathways in tumor cells were correlated with the number of tumor-associated CSF1 receptor+ M2 macrophages in patients with non–small lung cancer. Collectively, our findings show how chemoresistance affects the properties of CSCs in their niche microenvironments. Cancer Res; 74(10); 2698–709. ©2014 AACR.
Data from TNRC9 Downregulates BRCA1 Expression and Promotes Breast Cancer Aggressiveness
Authors: Shan Jingxuan , DSouza Shoba P. , Bakhru Sasha , Al-Azwani Eman K. , Ascierto Maria L. , Sastry Konduru S. , Bedri Shahinaz , Kizhakayil Dhanya , Aigha Idil I. , Malek Joel , Al-Bozom Issam , Gehani Salah , Furtado Stacia , Mathiowitz Edith , Wang Ena , Marincola Francesco M. , Chouchane Lotfi
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Although the linkage between germline mutations of BRCA1 and hereditary breast/ovarian cancers is well established, recent evidence suggests that altered expression of wild-type BRCA1 might contribute to the sporadic forms of breast cancer. The breast cancer gene trinucleotide-repeat-containing 9 (TNRC9; TOX3) has been associated with disease susceptibility but its function is undetermined. Here, we report that TNRC9 is often amplified and overexpressed in breast cancer, particularly in advanced breast cancer. Gene amplification was associated with reduced disease-free and metastasis-free survival rates. Ectopic expression of TNRC9 increased breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and survival after exposure to apoptotic stimuli. These phenotypes were associated with tumor progression in a mouse model of breast cancer. Gene expression profiling, protein analysis, and in silico assays of large datasets of breast and ovarian cancer samples suggested that TNRC9 and BRCA1 expression were inversely correlated. Notably, we found that TNRC9 bound to both the BRCA1 promoter and the cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) complex, a regulator of BRCA1 transcription. In support of this connection, expression of TNRC9 downregulated expression of BRCA1 by altering the methylation status of its promoter. Our studies unveil a function for TNRC9 in breast cancer that highlights a new paradigm in BRCA1 regulation. Cancer Res; 73(9); 2840–9. ©2013 AACR.
Data from ST6Gal-I Protein Expression Is Upregulated in Human Epithelial Tumors and Correlates with Stem Cell Markers in Normal Tissues and Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Swindall Amanda F. , Londoño-Joshi Angelina I. , Schultz Matthew J. , Fineberg Naomi , Buchsbaum Donald J. , Bellis Susan L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The ST6Gal-I sialyltransferase adds an α2-6–linked sialic acid to the N-glycans of certain receptors. ST6Gal-I mRNA has been reported to be upregulated in human cancer, but a prior lack of antibodies has limited immunochemical analysis of the ST6Gal-I protein. Here, we show upregulated ST6Gal-I protein in several epithelial cancers, including many colon carcinomas. In normal colon, ST6Gal-I localized selectively to the base of crypts, where stem/progenitor cells are found, and the tissue staining patterns were similar to the established stem cell marker ALDH1. Similarly, ST6Gal-I expression was restricted to basal epidermal layers in skin, another stem/progenitor cell compartment. ST6Gal-I was highly expressed in induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, with no detectable expression in the fibroblasts from which iPS cells were derived. On the basis of these observations, we investigated further an association of ST6Gal-I with cancer stem cells (CSC). Selection of irinotecan resistance in colon carcinoma cells led to a greater proportion of CSCs compared with parental cells, as measured by the CSC markers CD133 and ALDH1 activity (Aldefluor). These chemoresistant cells exhibited a corresponding upregulation of ST6Gal-I expression. Conversely, short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated attenuation of ST6Gal-I in colon carcinoma cells with elevated endogenous expression decreased the number of CD133/ALDH1-positive cells present in the cell population. Collectively, our results suggest that ST6Gal-I promotes tumorigenesis and may serve as a regulator of the stem cell phenotype in both normal and cancer cell populations. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2368–78. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Moesin Is a Glioma Progression Marker That Induces Proliferation and Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Activation via Interaction with CD44
Authors: Zhu Xiaoping , Morales Fabiana C. , Agarwal Nitin Kumar , Dogruluk Turgut , Gagea Mihai , Georgescu Maria-Magdalena
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Moesin is an ERM family protein that connects the actin cytoskeleton to transmembrane receptors. With the identification of the ERM family protein NF2 as a tumor suppressor in glioblastoma, we investigated roles for other ERM proteins in this malignancy. Here, we report that overexpression of moesin occurs generally in high-grade glioblastoma in a pattern correlated with the stem cell marker CD44. Unlike NF2, moesin acts as an oncogene by increasing cell proliferation and stem cell neurosphere formation, with its ectopic overexpression sufficient to shorten survival in an orthotopic mouse model of glioblastoma. Moesin was the major ERM member activated by phosphorylation in glioblastoma cells, where it interacted and colocalized with CD44 in membrane protrusions. Increasing the levels of moesin competitively displaced NF2 from CD44, increasing CD44 expression in a positive feedback loop driven by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therapeutic targeting of the moesin–CD44 interaction with the small-molecule inhibitor 7-cyanoquinocarcinol (DX-52-1) or with a CD44-mimetic peptide specifically reduced the proliferation of glioblastoma cells overexpressing moesin, where the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was activated. Our findings establish moesin and CD44 as progression markers and drugable targets in glioblastoma, relating their oncogenic effects to activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Cancer Res; 73(3); 1142–55. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Sunlight UV-Induced Skin Cancer Relies upon Activation of the p38α Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Kangdong , Yu Donghoon , Cho Yong-Yeon , Bode Ann M. , Ma Weiya , Yao Ke , Li Shengqing , Li Jixia , Bowden G. Tim , Dong Ziming , Dong Zigang
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The activation of cellular signal transduction pathways by solar ultraviolet (SUV) irradiation plays a vital role in skin tumorigenesis. Although many pathways have been studied using pure ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation, the signaling pathways induced by SUV (i.e., sunlight) are not understood well enough to permit improvements for prevention, prognosis, and treatment. Here, we report parallel protein kinase array studies aimed at determining the dominant signaling pathway involved in SUV irradiation. Our results indicated that the p38-related signal transduction pathway was dramatically affected by SUV irradiation. SUV (60 kJ UVA/m2/3.6 kJ UVB/m2) irradiation stimulates phosphorylation of p38α (MAPK14) by 5.78-fold, MSK2 (RPS6KA4) by 6.38-fold, and HSP27 (HSPB1) by 34.56-fold compared with untreated controls. By investigating the tumorigenic role of SUV-induced signal transduction in wild-type and p38 dominant-negative (p38 DN) mice, we found that p38 blockade yielded fewer and smaller tumors. These results establish that p38 signaling is critical for SUV-induced skin carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2181–8. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Higher Frequencies of GARP+CTLA-4+Foxp3+ T Regulatory Cells and Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Are Associated with Impaired T-Cell Functionality
Authors: Kalathil Suresh , Lugade Amit A. , Miller Austin , Iyer Renuka , Thanavala Yasmin
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The extent to which T-cell–mediated immune surveillance is impaired in human cancer remains a question of major importance, given its potential impact on the development of generalized treatments of advanced disease where the highest degree of heterogeneity exists. Here, we report the first global analysis of immune dysfunction in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using multi-parameter fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, we quantified the cumulative frequency of regulatory T cells (Treg), exhausted CD4+ helper T cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) to gain concurrent views on the overall level of immune dysfunction in these inoperable patients. We documented augmented numbers of Tregs, MDSC, PD-1+–exhausted T cells, and increased levels of immunosuppressive cytokines in patients with HCC, compared with normal controls, revealing a network of potential mechanisms of immune dysregulation in patients with HCC. In dampening T-cell–mediated antitumor immunity, we hypothesized that these processes may facilitate HCC progression and thwart the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions. In testing this hypothesis, we showed that combined regimens to deplete Tregs, MDSC, and PD-1+ T cells in patients with advanced HCC restored production of granzyme B by CD8+ T cells, reaching levels observed in normal controls and also modestly increased the number of IFN-γ producing CD4+ T cells. These clinical findings encourage efforts to restore T-cell function in patients with advanced stage disease by highlighting combined approaches to deplete endogenous suppressor cell populations that can also expand effector T-cell populations. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2435–44. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Distinct Effects of Ligand-Induced PDGFRα and PDGFRβ Signaling in the Human Rhabdomyosarcoma Tumor Cell and Stroma Cell Compartments
Authors: Ehnman Monika , Missiaglia Edoardo , Folestad Erika , Selfe Joanna , Strell Carina , Thway Khin , Brodin Bertha , Pietras Kristian , Shipley Janet , Östman Arne , Eriksson Ulf
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR) α and β have been suggested as potential targets for treatment of rhabdomyosarcoma, the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children. This study identifies biologic activities linked to PDGF signaling in rhabdomyosarcoma models and human sample collections. Analysis of gene expression profiles of 101 primary human rhabdomyosarcomas revealed elevated PDGF-C and -D expression in all subtypes, with PDGF-D as the solely overexpressed PDGFRβ ligand. By immunohistochemistry, PDGF-CC, PDGF-DD, and PDGFRα were found in tumor cells, whereas PDGFRβ was primarily detected in vascular stroma. These results are concordant with the biologic processes and pathways identified by data mining. While PDGF-CC/PDGFRα signaling associated with genes involved in the reactivation of developmental programs, PDGF-DD/PDGFRβ signaling related to wound healing and leukocyte differentiation. Clinicopathologic correlations further identified associations between PDGFRβ in vascular stroma and the alveolar subtype and with presence of metastases. Functional validation of our findings was carried out in molecularly distinct model systems, where therapeutic targeting reduced tumor burden in a PDGFR-dependent manner with effects on cell proliferation, vessel density, and macrophage infiltration. The PDGFR-selective inhibitor CP-673,451 regulated cell proliferation through mechanisms involving reduced phosphorylation of GSK-3α and GSK-3β. Additional tissue culture studies showed a PDGFR-dependent regulation of rhabdosphere formation/cancer cell stemness, differentiation, senescence, and apoptosis. In summary, the study shows a clinically relevant distinction in PDGF signaling in human rhabdomyosarcoma and also suggests continued exploration of the influence of stromal PDGFRs on sarcoma progression. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2139–49. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Interleukin 21–Induced Granzyme B–Expressing B Cells Infiltrate Tumors and Regulate T Cells
Authors: Lindner Stefanie , Dahlke Karen , Sontheimer Kai , Hagn Magdalena , Kaltenmeier Christof , Barth Thomas F.E. , Beyer Thamara , Reister Frank , Fabricius Dorit , Lotfi Ramin , Lunov Oleg , Nienhaus G. Ulrich , Simmet Thomas , Kreienberg Rolf , Möller Peter , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Jahrsdörfer Bernd
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The pathogenic impact of tumor-infiltrating B cells is unresolved at present, however, some studies suggest that they may have immune regulatory potential. Here, we report that the microenvironment of various solid tumors includes B cells that express granzyme B (GrB, GZMB), where these B cells can be found adjacent to interleukin (IL)-21–secreting regulatory T cells (Treg) that contribute to immune tolerance of tumor antigens. Because Tregs and plasmacytoid dendritic cells are known to modulate T-effector cells by a GrB-dependent mechanism, we hypothesized that a similar process may operate to modulate regulatory B cells (Breg). IL-21 induced outgrowth of B cells expressing high levels of GrB, which thereby limited T-cell proliferation by a GrB-dependent degradation of the T-cell receptor ζ-chain. Mechanistic investigations into how IL-21 induced GrB expression in B cells to confer Breg function revealed a CD19+CD38+CD1d+IgM+CD147+ expression signature, along with expression of additional key regulatory molecules including IL-10, CD25, and indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase. Notably, induction of GrB by IL-21 integrated signals mediated by surface immunoglobulin M (B-cell receptor) and Toll-like receptors, each of which were enhanced with expression of the B-cell marker CD5. Our findings show for the first time that IL-21 induces GrB+ human Bregs. They also establish the existence of human B cells with a regulatory phenotype in solid tumor infiltrates, where they may contribute to the suppression of antitumor immune responses. Together, these findings may stimulate novel diagnostic and cell therapeutic approaches to better manage human cancer as well as autoimmune and graft-versus-host pathologies. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2468–79. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Spreaders and Sponges Define Metastasis in Lung Cancer: A Markov Chain Monte Carlo Mathematical Model
Authors: Newton Paul K. , Mason Jeremy , Bethel Kelly , Bazhenova Lyudmila , Nieva Jorge , Norton Larry , Kuhn Peter
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The classic view of metastatic cancer progression is that it is a unidirectional process initiated at the primary tumor site, progressing to variably distant metastatic sites in a fairly predictable, although not perfectly understood, fashion. A Markov chain Monte Carlo mathematical approach can determine a pathway diagram that classifies metastatic tumors as “spreaders” or “sponges” and orders the timescales of progression from site to site. In light of recent experimental evidence highlighting the potential significance of self-seeding of primary tumors, we use a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach, based on large autopsy data sets, to quantify the stochastic, systemic, and often multidirectional aspects of cancer progression. We quantify three types of multidirectional mechanisms of progression: (i) self-seeding of the primary tumor, (ii) reseeding of the primary tumor from a metastatic site (primary reseeding), and (iii) reseeding of metastatic tumors (metastasis reseeding). The model shows that the combined characteristics of the primary and the first metastatic site to which it spreads largely determine the future pathways and timescales of systemic disease. Cancer Res; 73(9); 2760–9. ©2013 AACR.
Data from The Planar Cell Polarity Pathway Drives Pathogenesis of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia by the Regulation of B-Lymphocyte Migration
Authors: Kaucká Markéta , Plevová Karla , Pavlová Šárka , Janovská Pavlína , Mishra Archana , Verner Jan , Procházková Jiřina , Krejčí Pavel , Kotašková Jana , Ovesná Petra , Tichý Boris , Brychtová Yvona , Doubek Michael , Kozubík Alois , Mayer Jiří , Pospíšilová Šárka , Bryja Vítězslav
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway is a conserved pathway that regulates cell migration and polarity in various contexts. Here we show that key PCP pathway components such as Vangl2, Celsr1, Prickle1, FZD3, FZD7, Dvl2, Dvl3, and casein kinase 1 (CK1)-ϵ are upregulated in B lymphocytes of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Elevated levels of PCP proteins accumulate in advanced stages of the disease. Here, we show that PCP pathway is required for the migration and transendothelial invasion of CLL cells and that patients with high expression of PCP genes, FZD3, FZD7, and PRICKLE1, have a less favorable clinical prognosis. Our findings establish that the PCP pathway acts as an important regulator of CLL cell migration and invasion. PCP proteins represent an important class of molecules regulating pathogenic interaction of CLL cells with their microenvironment. Cancer Res; 73(5); 1491–501. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Genetic and Pharmacologic Inhibition of mTORC1 Promotes EMT by a TGF-β–Independent Mechanism
Authors: Mikaelian Ivan , Malek Mouhannad , Gadet Rudy , Viallet Jean , Garcia Amandine , Girard-Gagnepain Anaïs , Hesling Cédric , Gillet Germain , Gonzalo Philippe , Rimokh Ruth , Billaud Marc
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a transdifferentiation process that converts epithelial cells into highly motile mesenchymal cells. This physiologic process occurs largely during embryonic development but is aberrantly reactivated in different pathologic situations, including fibrosis and cancer. We conducted a siRNA screening targeted to the human kinome with the aim of discovering new EMT effectors. With this approach, we have identified mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1), a nutrient sensor that controls protein and lipid synthesis, as a key regulator of epithelial integrity. Using a combination of RNAi and pharmacologic approaches, we report here that inhibition of either mTOR or RPTOR triggers EMT in mammary epithelial cells. This EMT was characterized by the induction of the mesenchymal markers such as fibronectin, vimentin, and PAI-1, together with the repression of epithelial markers such as E-cadherin and ZO-3. In addition, mTORC1 blockade enhanced in vivo migratory properties of mammary cells and induced EMT independent of the TGF-β pathway. Finally, among the transcription factors known to activate EMT, both ZEB1 and ZEB2 were upregulated following mTOR repression. Their increased expression correlated with a marked reduction in miR-200b and miR-200c mRNA levels, two microRNAs known to downregulate ZEB1 and ZEB2 expression. Taken together, our findings unravel a novel function for mTORC1 in maintaining the epithelial phenotype and further indicate that this effect is mediated through the opposite regulation of ZEB1/ZEB2 and miR-200b and miR-200c. Furthermore, these results suggest a plausible etiologic explanation for the progressive pulmonary fibrosis, a frequent adverse condition associated with the therapeutic use of mTOR inhibitors. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6621–31. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Aire Deficiency Promotes TRP-1–Specific Immune Rejection of Melanoma
Authors: Zhu Meng-Lei , Nagavalli Anil , Su Maureen A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The thymic transcription factor autoimmune regulator (Aire) prevents autoimmunity in part by promoting expression of tissue-specific self-antigens, which include many cancer antigens. For example, AIRE-deficient patients are predisposed to vitiligo, an autoimmune disease of melanocytes that is often triggered by efficacious immunotherapies against melanoma. Therefore, we hypothesized that Aire deficiency in mice may elevate immune responses to cancer and provide insights into how such responses might be triggered. In this study, we show that Aire deficiency decreases thymic expression of TRP-1 (TYRP1), which is a self-antigen in melanocytes and a cancer antigen in melanomas. Aire deficiency resulted in defective negative selection of TRP-1–specific T cells without affecting thymic numbers of regulatory T cells. Aire-deficient mice displayed elevated T-cell immune responses that were associated with suppression of melanoma outgrowth. Furthermore, transplantation of Aire-deficient thymic stroma was sufficient to confer more effective immune rejection of melanoma in an otherwise Aire wild-type host. Together, our work showed how Aire deficiency can enhance immune responses against melanoma and how manipulating TRP-1–specific T-cell negative selection may offer a logical strategy to enhance immune rejection of melanoma. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2104–16. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Elimination of IL-10–Inducing T-Helper Epitopes from an IGFBP-2 Vaccine Ensures Potent Antitumor Activity
Authors: Cecil Denise L. , Holt Gregory E. , Park Kyong Hwa , Gad Ekram , Rastetter Lauren , Childs Jennifer , Higgins Doreen , Disis Mary L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Immunization against self-tumor antigens can induce T-regulatory cells, which inhibit proliferation of type I CD4+ T-helper (TH1) and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. Type I T cells are required for potent antitumor immunity. We questioned whether immunosuppressive epitopes could be identified and deleted from a cancer vaccine targeting insulin-like growth factor–binding protein (IGFBP-2) and enhance vaccine efficacy. Screening breast cancer patient lymphocytes with IFN-γ and interleukin (IL)-10 ELISPOT, we found epitopes in the N-terminus of IGFBP-2 that elicited predominantly TH1 whereas the C-terminus stimulated TH2 and mixed TH1/TH2 responses. Epitope-specific TH2 demonstrated a higher functional avidity for antigen than epitopes, which induced IFN-γ (P = 0.014). We immunized TgMMTV-neu mice with DNA constructs encoding IGFBP-2 N-and C-termini. T cell lines expanded from the C-terminus vaccinated animals secreted significantly more type II cytokines than those vaccinated with the N-terminus and could not control tumor growth when infused into tumor-bearing animals. In contrast, N-terminus epitope–specific T cells secreted TH1 cytokines and significantly inhibited tumor growth, as compared with naïve T cells, when adoptively transferred (P = 0.005). To determine whether removal of TH2-inducing epitopes had any effect on the vaccinated antitumor response, we immunized mice with the N-terminus, C-terminus, and a mix of equivalent concentrations of both vaccines. The N-terminus vaccine significantly inhibited tumor growth (P < 0.001) as compared with the C-terminus vaccine, which had no antitumor effect. Mixing the C-terminus with the N-terminus vaccine abrogated the antitumor response of the N-terminus vaccine alone. The clinical efficacy of cancer vaccines targeting self-tumor antigens may be greatly improved by identification and removal of immunosuppressive epitopes. Cancer Res; 74(10); 2710–8. ©2014 AACR.
Data from CUL3 and NRF2 Mutations Confer an NRF2 Activation Phenotype in a Sporadic Form of Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ooi Aikseng , Dykema Karl , Ansari Asif , Petillo David , Snider John , Kahnoski Richard , Anema John , Craig David , Carpten John , Teh Bin-Tean , Furge Kyle A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Sustained activation of the stress-regulated transcription factor NRF2 (NFE2L2) is a prominent feature of many types of cancer, implying that mutations driving NRF2 may be important to tumor progression. In hereditary type 2 papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC2, also known as hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer), NRF2 activation is a direct consequence of the accumulation of intracellular fumarate, a result of fumarate hydratase (FH) inactivation, but it is not clear how NRF2 may be activated in sporadic forms of PRCC2. Here we show that somatic mutations in NRF2, CUL3, and SIRT1 are responsible for driving the NRF2 activation phenotype in sporadic PRCC2. Transcriptome sequencing revealed the expression pattern of mutant alleles of NRF2, CUL3, and SIRT1 and also confirmed NRF2 activation in clinical specimens. Our results show a convergence in somatic mutations in sporadic PRCC2 with FH mutation in hereditary PRCC2. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2044–51. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Nitroreductase, a Near-Infrared Reporter Platform for In Vivo Time-Domain Optical Imaging of Metastatic Cancer
Authors: McCormack Emmet , Silden Elisabeth , West Richard M. , Pavlin Tina , Micklem David R. , Lorens James B. , Haug Bengt Erik , Cooper Michael E. , Gjertsen Bjørn Tore
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The ability to visualize reporter gene expression in vivo has revolutionized all facets of biologic investigation and none more so than imaging applications in oncology. Near-infrared reporter gene imaging may facilitate more accurate evaluation of chemotherapeutic response in preclinical models of orthotopic and metastatic cancers. We report the development of a cell permeable, quenched squarine probe (CytoCy5S), which is reduced by Escherichia coli nitroreductase (NTR), resulting in a near-infrared fluorescent product. Time-domain molecular imaging of NTR/CytoCy5S reporter platform permitted noninvasive monitoring of disease progression in orthotopic xenografts of disseminated leukemia, lung, and metastatic breast cancer. This methodology facilitated therapeutic evaluation of NTR gene–directed enzymatic prodrug therapy with conventional metronidazole antibiotics. These studies show NTR/CytoCy5S as a near-infrared gene reporter system with broad preclinical and prospective clinical applications within imaging, and gene therapy, of cancer. Cancer Res; 73(4); 1276–86. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Trask Loss Enhances Tumorigenic Growth by Liberating Integrin Signaling and Growth Factor Receptor Cross-Talk in Unanchored Cells
Authors: Spassov Danislav S. , Wong Ching Hang , Wong Sunny Y. , Reiter Jeremy F. , Moasser Mark M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The cell surface glycoprotein Trask/CDCP1 is phosphorylated during anchorage loss in epithelial cells in which it inhibits integrin clustering, outside-in signaling, and cell adhesion. Its role in cancer has been difficult to understand, because of the lack of a discernible pattern in its various alterations in cancer cells. To address this issue, we generated mice lacking Trask function. Mammary tumors driven by the PyMT oncogene and skin tumors driven by the SmoM2 oncogene arose with accelerated kinetics in Trask-deficient mice, establishing a tumor suppressing function for this gene. Mechanistic investigations in mammary tumor cell lines derived from wild-type or Trask-deficient mice revealed a derepression of integrin signaling and an enhancement of integrin-growth factor receptor cross-talk, specifically in unanchored cell states. A similar restrictive link between anchorage and growth in untransformed epithelial cells was observed and disrupted by elimination of Trask. Together our results establish a tumor-suppressing function in Trask that restricts epithelial cell growth to the anchored state. Cancer Res; 73(3); 1168–79. ©2012 AACR.