bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Inhibition of Protein Kinase Cβ by Enzastaurin Enhances Radiation Cytotoxicity in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Spalding Aaron C. , Watson Richard , Davis Mary E. , Kim Alex C. , Lawrence Theodore S. , Ben-Josef Edgar
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Aberrant activation of protein kinase Cβ (PKCβ) by pancreatic cancer cells facilitates angiogenesis and tumor cell survival. Targeting PKCβ with enzastaurin, a well-tolerated drug in clinical trials, would be expected to radiosensitize pancreatic tumors through direct antitumor and antivascular effects.

Experimental Design: We tested the hypothesis that enzastaurin radiosensitizes pancreatic cancer cells in culture and in vivo through inhibition of PKCβ. We analyzed pancreatic cancer xenografts for growth delay and microvessel density after treatment with enzastaurin, radiation, or both. We determined the effect of radiation and enzastaurin on glycogen synthase kinase 3β, a mediator of cell death in culture and in vivo.

Results: At concentrations attained in patients, enzastaurin reduced levels of active PKCβ measured by phosphorylation at Thr500 in culture and in xenografts. Enzastaurin alone did not affect pancreatic cancer cell survival, proliferation, or xenograft growth. However, enzastaurin radiosensitized pancreatic cancer cells in culture by colony formation assay. Enzastaurin alone decreased microvessel density of pancreatic cancer xenografts without appreciable effects on tumor size. When combined with radiation, enzastaurin increased radiation-induced tumor growth delay with a corresponding decrease in microvessel density. Enzastaurin inhibited radiation-induced phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β at Ser9 in pancreatic cancer cells in culture and in tumor xenografts, suggesting a possible mechanism for the observed radiosensitization.

Conclusions: Enzastaurin inhibits PKCβ in pancreatic cancer cells in culture, enhancing radiation cytotoxicity. Additional antivascular effects of enzastaurin were observed in vivo, resulting in greater radiosensitization. These results provide the rationale for a clinical trial in locally advanced pancreatic cancer combining enzastaurin with radiation.
Data from Profound Inhibition of Antigen-Specific T-Cell Effector Functions by Dasatinib
Authors: Weichsel Ralf , Dix Carolin , Wooldridge Linda , Clement Matthew , Fenton-May Angharad , Sewell Andrew K. , Zezula Josef , Greiner Elisabeth , Gostick Emma , Price David A. , Einsele Hermann , Seggewiss Ruth
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The dual BCR-ABL/SRC kinase inhibitor dasatinib entered the clinic for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia and Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Because SRC kinases are known to play an important role in physiologic T-cell activation, we analyzed the immunobiological effects of dasatinib on T-cell function. The effect of dasatinib on multiple T-cell effector functions was examined at clinically relevant doses (1-100 nmol/L); the promiscuous tyrosine kinase inhibitor staurosporine was used as a comparator.

Experimental Design: Purified human CD3+ cells and virus-specific CD8+ T cells from healthy blood donors were studied directly ex vivo; antigen-specific effects were confirmed in defined T-cell clones. Functional outcomes included cytokine production (interleukin-2, IFNγ, and tumor necrosis factor α), degranulation (CD107a/b mobilization), activation (CD69 up-regulation), proliferation (carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester dilution), apoptosis/necrosis induction, and signal transduction.

Results: Both dasatinib and staurosporine inhibited T-cell activation, proliferation, cytokine production, and degranulation in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, this was mediated by the blockade of early signal transduction events and was not due to loss of T-cell viability. Overall, CD4+ T cells seemed to be more sensitive to these effects than CD8+ T cells, and naïve T cells more sensitive than memory T-cell subsets. The inhibitory effects of dasatinib were so profound that all T-cell effector functions were shut down at therapeutically relevant concentrations.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that caution is warranted with use of this drug in the clinical setting and provide a rationale to explore the potential of dasatinib as an immunosuppressant in the fields of transplantation and T-cell–driven autoimmune diseases.
Data from DNA Methylation Markers Predict Outcome in Node-Positive, Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer with Adjuvant Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Hartmann Oliver , Spyratos Frédérique , Harbeck Nadia , Dietrich Dimo , Fassbender Anne , Schmitt Manfred , Eppenberger-Castori Serenella , Vuaroqueaux Vincent , Lerebours Florence , Welzel Katrin , Maier Sabine , Plum Achim , Niemann Stephan , Foekens John A. , Lesche Ralf , Martens John W.M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: We have shown that DNA methylation of the PITX2 gene predicts risk of distant recurrence in steroid hormone receptor-positive, node-negative breast cancer. Here, we present results from a multicenter study investigating whether PITX2 and other candidate DNA methylation markers predict outcome in node-positive, estrogen receptor-positive, HER-2-negative breast cancer patients who received adjuvant anthracycline-based chemotherapy.

Experimental Design: Using a microarray platform, we analyzed DNA methylation in regulatory regions of PITX2 and 60 additional candidate genes in 241 breast cancer specimens. Using Cox regression analysis, we assessed the predictive power of the individual marker/marker panel candidates. Clinical endpoints were time to distant metastasis, disease-free survival, and overall survival. A nested bootstrap/cross-validation strategy was applied to identify and validate marker panels.

Results: DNA methylation of PITX2 and 14 other genes was correlated with clinical outcome. In multivariate models, each methylation marker added significant information to established clinical factors. A four-marker panel including PITX2, BMP4, FGF4, and C20orf55 was identified that resulted in improvement of outcome prediction compared with PITX2 alone.

Conclusions: This study provides further evidence for the PITX2 biomarker, which has now been successfully confirmed to predict outcome among different breast cancer patient populations. We further identify new DNA methylation biomarkers, three of which can be combined into a panel with PITX2 to increase the outcome prediction performance in our anthracycline-treated primary breast cancer population. Our results show that a well-defined panel of DNA methylation markers enables outcome prediction in lymph node-positive, HER-2-negative breast cancer patients treated with anthracycline-based chemotherapy.
Data from Catching Cancer by the Tail: New Perspectives on the Use of Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Khanna Chand , Gordon Ira
Published: April 2023

Abstract
In this issue of Clinical Cancer Research, London and colleagues evaluate a small molecule multiple-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor in dogs with c-kit driven skin cancer. The study represents another example of opportunities to include pet dogs in studies that improve our understanding of human cancer biology and therapy.
Data from Phenotype and Functional Characterization of Long-term gp100-Specific Memory CD8+ T Cells in Disease-Free Melanoma Patients Before and After Boosting Immunization
Authors: Walker Edwin B. , Haley Daniel , Petrausch Ulf , Floyd Kevin , Miller William , Sanjuan Nelson , Alvord Greg , Fox Bernard A. , Urba Walter J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Effective cancer vaccines must both drive a strong CTL response and sustain long-term memory T cells capable of rapid recall responses to tumor antigens. We sought to characterize the phenotype and function of gp100 peptide-specific memory CD8+ T cells in melanoma patients after primary gp100209-2M immunization and assess the anamnestic response to boosting immunization.

Experimental Design: Eight-color flow cytometry analysis of gp100-specific CD8+ T cells was done on peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected shortly after the primary vaccine regimen, 12 to 24 months after primary vaccination, and after boosting immunization. The anamnestic response was assessed by comparing the frequency of circulating gp100-specific T cells before and after boosting. Gp100 peptide-induced in vitro functional avidity and proliferation responses and melanoma-stimulated T-cell CD107 mobilization were compared for cells from all three time points for multiple patients.

Results: The frequency of circulating gp100-specific memory CD8+ T cells was comparable with cytomegalovirus-specific and FLU-specific T cells in the same patients, and the cells exhibited anamnestic proliferation after boosting. Their phenotypes were not unique, and individual patients exhibited one of two distinct phenotype signatures that were homologous to either cytomegalovirus-specific or FLU-specific memory T cells. Gp100-specific memory T cells showed some properties of competent memory T cells, such as heightened in vitro peptide-stimulated proliferation and increase in central memory (TCM) differentiation when compared with T-cell responses measured after the primary vaccine regimen. However, they did not acquire enhanced functional avidity usually associated with competent memory T-cell maturation.

Conclusions: Although vaccination with class I–restricted melanoma peptides alone can break tolerance to self-tumor antigens, it did not induce fully competent memory CD8+ T cells—even in disease-free patients. Data presented suggest other vaccine strategies will be required to induce functionally robust long-term memory T cells.
Data from Potent Anticarcinoma Activity of the Humanized Anti-CD70 Antibody h1F6 Conjugated to the Tubulin Inhibitor Auristatin via an Uncleavable Linker
Authors: Oflazoglu Ezogelin , Stone Ivan J. , Gordon Kristine , Wood Christopher G. , Repasky Elizabeth A. , Grewal Iqbal S. , Law Che-Leung , Gerber Hans-Peter
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The antitubulin agent monomethyl auristatin F (MMAF) induces potent antitumor effects when conjugated via protease cleavable linkers to antibodies targeting internalizing, tumor-specific cell surface antigens. Humanized 1F6 (h1F6) is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD70, a member of the tumor necrosis factor family that is expressed on hematologic malignancies and carcinomas. Here, we tested h1F6–maleimidocaproyl (mc) MMAF conjugates, consisting of an uncleavable mc linker, for their ability to interfere with the growth of CD70-positive carcinomas.

Experimental Design: To evaluate the optimal drug per antibody ratio, we conjugated either four or eight MMAF molecules to the cysteines that comprise the interchain disulfides of h1F6 and determined antitumor activities in vitro and in xenografted mice. The tumor types tested included glioblastoma, patient-derived renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell isolates, and standard RCC tumor cell lines.

Results: All h1F6-mcMMAF conjugates potently interfered with the growth of all carcinomas in vitro and resulted in complete responses of RCC tumors implanted orthotopically or s.c. in mice. In vitro, h1F6-mcMMAF(8) was generally more potent than h1F6-mcMMAF(4). However, h1F6-mcMMAF(4) displayed equal or better efficacy than h1F6-mcMMAF(8) when administered to tumor-bearing mice.

Conclusions: We showed that h1F6-mcMMAF conjugates inhibited the growth of human carcinomas and that increased drug loading, while improving potency in vitro, did not substantially affect the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties in vivo. Based on these findings, h1F6-mcMMAF(4), designated SGN-75, has been identified as a potential antibody-drug conjugate for clinical development.
Data from EML4-ALK Fusion Gene and Efficacy of an ALK Kinase Inhibitor in Lung Cancer
Authors: Koivunen Jussi P. , Mermel Craig , Zejnullahu Kreshnik , Murphy Carly , Lifshits Eugene , Holmes Alison J. , Choi Hwan Geun , Kim Jhingook , Chiang Derek , Thomas Roman , Lee Jinseon , Richards William G. , Sugarbaker David J. , Ducko Christopher , Lindeman Neal , Marcoux J. Paul , Engelman Jeffrey A. , Gray Nathanael S. , Lee Charles , Meyerson Matthew , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The EML4-ALK fusion gene has been detected in ∼7% of Japanese non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). We determined the frequency of EML4-ALK in Caucasian NSCLC and in NSCLC cell lines. We also determined whether TAE684, a specific ALK kinase inhibitor, would inhibit the growth of EML4-ALK-containing cell lines in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Design: We screened 305 primary NSCLC [both U.S. (n = 138) and Korean (n = 167) patients] and 83 NSCLC cell lines using reverse transcription-PCR and by exon array analyses. We evaluated the efficacy of TAE684 against NSCLC cell lines in vitro and in vivo.

Results: We detected four different variants, including two novel variants, of EML4-ALK using reverse transcription-PCR in 8 of 305 tumors (3%) and 3 of 83 (3.6%) NSCLC cell lines. All EML4-ALK-containing tumors and cell lines were adenocarcinomas. EML4-ALK was detected more frequently in NSCLC patients who were never or light (<10 pack-years) cigarette smokers compared with current/former smokers (6% versus 1%; P = 0.049). TAE684 inhibited the growth of one of three (H3122) EML4-ALK-containing cell lines in vitro and in vivo, inhibited Akt phosphorylation, and caused apoptosis. In another EML4-ALK cell line, DFCI032, TAE684 was ineffective due to coactivation of epidermal growth factor receptor and ERBB2. The combination of TAE684 and CL-387,785 (epidermal growth factor receptor/ERBB2 kinase inhibitor) inhibited growth and Akt phosphorylation and led to apoptosis in the DFCI032 cell line.

Conclusions:EML4-ALK is found in the minority of NSCLC. ALK kinase inhibitors alone or in combination may nevertheless be clinically effective treatments for NSCLC patients whose tumors contain EML4-ALK.
Data from Identification of Novel Kinase Targets for the Treatment of Estrogen Receptor–Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Speers Corey , Tsimelzon Anna , Sexton Krystal , Herrick Ashley M. , Gutierrez Carolina , Culhane Aedin , Quackenbush John , Hilsenbeck Susan , Chang Jenny , Brown Powel
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Previous gene expression profiling studies of breast cancer have focused on the entire genome to identify genes differentially expressed between estrogen receptor (ER) α–positive and ER-α–negative cancers.

Experimental Design: Here, we used gene expression microarray profiling to identify a distinct kinase gene expression profile that identifies ER-negative breast tumors and subsets ER-negative breast tumors into four distinct subtypes.

Results: Based on the types of kinases expressed in these clusters, we identify a cell cycle regulatory subset, a S6 kinase pathway cluster, an immunomodulatory kinase–expressing cluster, and a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway cluster. Furthermore, we show that this specific kinase profile is validated using independent sets of human tumors and is also seen in a panel of breast cancer cell lines. Kinase expression knockdown studies show that many of these kinases are essential for the growth of ER-negative, but not ER-positive, breast cancer cell lines. Finally, survival analysis of patients with breast cancer shows that the S6 kinase pathway signature subtype of ER-negative cancers confers an extremely poor prognosis, whereas patients whose tumors express high levels of immunomodulatory kinases have a significantly better prognosis.

Conclusions: This study identifies a list of kinases that are prognostic and may serve as druggable targets for the treatment of ER-negative breast cancer. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(20):6327–40)
Data from Pattern of Serum Autoantibodies Allows Accurate Distinction between a Tumor and Pathologies of the Same Organ
Authors: Ludwig Nicole , Keller Andreas , Comtesse Nicole , Rheinheimer Stefanie , Pallasch Christian , Fischer Ulrike , Fassbender Klaus , Steudel Wolf Ingo , Lenhof Hans-Peter , Meese Eckart
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Recent studies impressively showed the diagnostic potential of seroreactivity patterns for different tumor types, offering the prospect for low-cost screening of numerous tumor types simultaneously. One of the major challenges toward this goal is to prove that seroreactivity profiles do not only allow for identifying a tumor but also allow for distinguishing tumors from other pathologies of the same organ.

Experimental Design: We chose glioma as a model system and tested 325 sera (88 glioma, 95 intracranial tumors, 60 other brain pathologies, and 82 healthy controls) for seroreactivity on a panel of 35 antigens.

Results: We were able to discriminate between glioma and all other sera with cross-validated specificity of 86.1%, sensitivity of 85.2%, and accuracy of 85.8%. We obtained comparably good results for the separation of glioma versus nontumor brain pathologies and glioma versus other intracranial tumors.

Conclusion: Our study provides first evidence that seroreactivity patterns allow for an accurate discrimination between a tumor and pathologies of the same organ even between different tumor types of the same organ.
Data from KML001 Cytotoxic Activity Is Associated with Its Binding to Telomeric Sequences and Telomere Erosion in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Phatak Pornima , Dai Fangping , Butler Melody , Nandakumar M.P. , Gutierrez Peter L. , Edelman Martin J. , Hendriks Hans , Burger Angelika M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: KML001 (sodium metaarsenite) is an orally bioavailable arsenic compound that has entered phase I/II clinical trials in prostate cancer. In this study, we elucidated the mode of action of KML001 and investigated its effects on telomerase and telomeres.

Experimental Design: We compared telomere length to KML001 cytotoxic activity in a panel of human solid tumor cell lines. Duration of exposure and concentrations of KML001 that affect telomerase and telomeres were evaluated in relation to established mechanisms of arsenite action such as reactive oxygen species–related DNA damage induction. Binding of KML001 to telomeres was assessed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

Results: We established a significant inverse correlation (r2 = 0.9) between telomere length and cytotoxicity. KML001 exhibited activity in tumor cells with short telomeres at concentrations that can be achieved in serum of patients. We found that telomerase is not directly inhibited by KML001. Instead, KML001 specifically binds to telomeric sequences at a ratio of one molecule per three TTAGGG repeats leading to translocation of the telomerase catalytic subunit into the cytoplasm. In prostate cancer cells with short telomeres, KML001 caused telomere-associated DNA damage signaling as shown by γ-H2AX induction and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays as well as a rapid telomere erosion shown by metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization. These effects were not seen in a lung cancer cell line with long telomeres. Importantly, arsenification of telomeres preceded DNA lesions caused by reactive oxygen species production.

Conclusions: Sodium metaarsenite is a telomere targeting agent and should be explored for the treatment of tumors with short telomeres.
Data from Histone Deacetylase 8 in Neuroblastoma Tumorigenesis
Authors: Oehme Ina , Deubzer Hedwig E. , Wegener Dennis , Pickert Diana , Linke Jan-Peter , Hero Barbara , Kopp-Schneider Annette , Westermann Frank , Ulrich Scott M. , von Deimling Andreas , Fischer Matthias , Witt Olaf
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The effects of pan–histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors on cancer cells have shown that HDACs are involved in fundamental tumor biological processes such as cell cycle control, differentiation, and apoptosis. However, because of the unselective nature of these compounds, little is known about the contribution of individual HDAC family members to tumorigenesis and progression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of individual HDACs in neuroblastoma tumorigenesis.

Experimental Design: We have investigated the mRNA expression of all HDAC1-11 family members in a large cohort of primary neuroblastoma samples covering the full spectrum of the disease. HDACs associated with disease stage and survival were subsequently functionally evaluated in cell culture models.

Results: Only HDAC8 expression was significantly correlated with advanced disease and metastasis and down-regulated in stage 4S neuroblastoma associated with spontaneous regression. High HDAC8 expression was associated with poor prognostic markers and poor overall and event-free survival. The knockdown of HDAC8 resulted in the inhibition of proliferation, reduced clonogenic growth, cell cycle arrest, and differentiation in cultured neuroblastoma cells. The treatment of neuroblastoma cell lines as well as short-term-culture neuroblastoma cells with an HDAC8-selective small-molecule inhibitor inhibited cell proliferation and clone formation, induced differentiation, and thus reproduced the HDAC8 knockdown phenotype. Global histone 4 acetylation was not affected by HDAC8 knockdown or by selective inhibitor treatment.

Conclusions: Our data point toward an important role of HDAC8 in neuroblastoma pathogenesis and identify this HDAC family member as a specific drug target for the differentiation therapy of neuroblastoma.
Data from Expression Analysis of Barrett's Esophagus–Associated High-Grade Dysplasia in Laser Capture Microdissected Archival Tissue
Authors: Sabo Edmond , Meitner Patricia A. , Tavares Rosemarie , Corless Christopher L. , Lauwers Gregory Y. , Moss Steven F. , Resnick Murray B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Identifying genes differentially expressed in nondysplastic BE (NDBE) from those expressed in high-grade dysplasia (HGD) should be of value in improving our understanding of this transition and may yield new diagnostic and/or prognostic markers. The aim of this study was to determine the differential transcriptome of HGD compared with NDBE through gene microarray analysis of epithelial cells microdissected from archival tissue specimens.

Experimental Design: Laser capture microdissection was used to isolate epithelial cells from adjacent inflammatory and stromal cells. Epithelial mRNA was extracted from areas of NDBE and HGD in matched biopsies from 11 patients. mRNA was reverse transcribed and applied on Affymetrix cDNA microarray chips customized for formalin-exposed tissue. For a subset of these genes, differential gene expression was confirmed by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results: There were 131 genes overexpressed by at least 2.5-fold in HGD versus NDBE and 16 genes that were underexpressed by at least 2.5-fold. Among the overexpressed genes are several previously shown to be increased in the neoplastic progression of BE, as well as novel genes such as lipocalin-2, S100A9, matrix metallopeptidase 12, secernin 1, and topoisomerase IIα. Genes decreased in dysplastic epithelium include MUC5AC, trefoil factor 1 (TFF1), meprin A, and CD13. Real-time PCR validated the changes in expression in 24 of 28 selected genes. Immunohistochemistry confirmed increased protein expression for topoisomerase IIα, S100A9, and lipocalin-2 and decreased expression of TFF1 across the spectrum of BE-associated dysplasia from NDBE through adenocarcinoma.

Conclusions: This is the first study to identify epithelial genes differentially expressed in HGD versus NDBE in matched patient samples. The genes identified include several previously implicated in the pathogenesis of BE-associated dysplasia and new candidates for further investigation.
Data from Amplification of PVT1 Contributes to the Pathophysiology of Ovarian and Breast Cancer
Authors: Guan Yinghui , Kuo Wen-Lin , Stilwell Jackie L. , Takano Hirokuni , Lapuk Anna V. , Fridlyand Jane , Mao Jian-Hua , Yu Mamie , Miller Melinda A. , Santos Jennifer L. , Kalloger Steve E. , Carlson Joseph W. , Ginzinger David G. , Celniker Susan E. , Mills Gordon B. , Huntsman David G. , Gray Joe W.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: This study was designed to elucidate the role of amplification at 8q24 in the pathophysiology of ovarian and breast cancer because increased copy number at this locus is one of the most frequent genomic abnormalities in these cancers.

Experimental Design: To accomplish this, we assessed the association of amplification at 8q24 with outcome in ovarian cancers using fluorescence in situ hybridization to tissue microarrays and measured responses of ovarian and breast cancer cell lines to specific small interfering RNAs against the oncogene MYC and a putative noncoding RNA, PVT1, both of which map to 8q24.

Results: Amplification of 8q24 was associated with significantly reduced survival duration. In addition, small interfering RNA–mediated reduction in either PVT1 or MYC expression inhibited proliferation in breast and ovarian cancer cell lines in which they were both amplified and overexpressed but not in lines in which they were not amplified/overexpressed. Inhibition of PVT1 expression also induced a strong apoptotic response in cell lines in which it was overexpressed but not in lines in which it was not amplified/overexpressed. Inhibition of MYC, on the other hand, did not induce an apoptotic response in cell lines in which MYC was amplified and overexpressed.

Conclusions: These results suggest that MYC and PVT1 contribute independently to ovarian and breast pathogenesis when overexpressed because of genomic abnormalities. They also suggest that PVT1-mediated inhibition of apoptosis may explain why amplification of 8q24 is associated with reduced survival duration in patients treated with agents that act through apoptotic mechanisms.
Data from Dual Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor for Focal Adhesion Kinase and Insulin-like Growth Factor-I Receptor Exhibits Anticancer Effect in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma In vitro and In vivo
Authors: Watanabe Nobuyuki , Takaoka Munenori , Sakurama Kazufumi , Tomono Yasuko , Hatakeyama Shinji , Ohmori Osamu , Motoki Takayuki , Shirakawa Yasuhiro , Yamatsuji Tomoki , Haisa Minoru , Matsuoka Junji , Beer David G. , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Tanaka Noriaki , Naomoto Yoshio
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) regulates integrin and growth factor–mediated signaling pathways to enhance cell migration, proliferation, and survival, and its up-regulation correlates malignant grade and poor outcome in several types of cancer. In this study, we aimed to raise a potential therapeutic strategy using a FAK inhibitor for Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Experimental Design: The expression status of FAK in clinical Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma tissues was determined by immunohistochemistry. Cultured esophageal adenocarcinoma cells were treated with TAE226, a specific FAK inhibitor with an additional effect of inhibiting insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR), to assess its anticancer effect in vitro. Western blot was carried out to explore a participating signaling pathway for TAE226-induced cell death. Furthermore, TAE226 was orally administered to s.c. xenograft animals to investigate its anticancer effect in vivo.

Results: Strong expression of FAK was found in 94.0% of Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma compared with 17.9% of Barrett's epithelia, suggesting that FAK might play a critical role in the progression of Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma. When esophageal adenocarcinoma cells were treated with TAE226, cell proliferation and migration were greatly inhibited with an apparent structural change of actin fiber and a loss of cell adhesion. The activities of FAK, IGF-IR, and AKT were suppressed by TAE226 and subsequent dephosphorylation of BAD at Ser136 occurred, resulting in caspase-mediated apoptosis. In vivo tumor volume was significantly reduced by oral administration of TAE226.

Conclusions: These results suggest that TAE226, a dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor for FAK and IGF-IR, could become a new remedy for Barrett's esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Data from Global and Regional CpG Methylation in Pheochromocytomas and Abdominal Paragangliomas: Association to Malignant Behavior
Authors: Geli Janos , Kiss Nimrod , Karimi Mohsen , Lee Jia-Jing , Bäckdahl Martin , Ekström Tomas J. , Larsson Catharina
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to quantitatively assess promoter and global methylation changes in pheochromocytomas and abdominal paragangliomas and its relation to tumor phenotypes.

Experimental Design: A panel of 53 primary tumors (42 benign, 11 malignant) was analyzed by quantitative bisulfite pyrosequencing. Based on methylation levels in the tumor suppressor genes, p16INK4A, CDH1, DCR2, RARB, RASSF1A, NORE1A, TP73, APC, DAPK1, p14ARF, and PTEN, a CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) was defined as concerted hypermethylation in three or more genes. Mean Z scores for the hypermethylated promoters were calculated to characterize overall promoter methylation. Global DNA methylation was quantified for LINE-1 promoter sequences and by using luminescent methylation analysis.

Results: Five primary tumors (9.4%) exhibited a CIMP phenotype, four of which were malignant paragangliomas. CIMP was significantly associated with malignant behavior (P = 0.005) and younger age at presentation (P < 0.007) but did not result from BRAF V600E mutation. Global hypomethylation of LINE-1 elements was observed in tumors compared with normal adrenal samples (P < 0.02).

Conclusion: We here describe the identification of CIMP in abdominal paragangliomas and a strong association of this phenotype with malignant behavior, as well as young age at presentation. The findings raise a prospective for potential benefits of epigenetically acting drugs for a subgroup of young abdominal paraganglioma patients with adverse prognosis.
Data from Altered Cytoplasmic-to-Nuclear Ratio of Survivin Is a Prognostic Indicator in Breast Cancer
Authors: Brennan Donal J. , Rexhepaj Elton , O'Brien Sallyann L. , McSherry Elaine , O'Connor Darran P. , Fagan Ailís , Culhane Aedín C. , Higgins Desmond G. , Jirstrom Karin , Millikan Robert C. , Landberg Goran , Duffy Michael J. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Gallagher William M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Survivin (BIRC5) is a promising tumor biomarker. Conflicting data exist on its prognostic effect in breast cancer. These data may at least be partly due to the manual interpretation of immunohistochemical staining, especially as survivin can be located in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Quantitative determination of survivin expression using image analysis offers the opportunity to develop alternative scoring models for survivin immunohistochemistry. Here, we present such a model.

Experimental Design: A breast cancer tissue microarray containing 102 tumors was stained with an anti-survivin antibody. Whole-slide scanning was used to capture high-resolution images. These images were analyzed using automated algorithms to quantify the staining.

Results: Increased nuclear, but not cytoplasmic, survivin was associated with a reduced overall survival (OS; P = 0.038) and disease-specific survival (P = 0.0015). A high cytoplasmic-to-nuclear ratio (CNR) of survivin was associated with improved OS (P = 0.005) and disease-specific survival (P = 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the survivin CNR was an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio, 0.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.76; P = 0.027). A survivin CNR of >5 correlated positively with estrogen receptor (P = 0.019) and progesterone receptor (P = 0.033) levels, whereas it was negatively associated with Ki-67 expression (P = 0.04), p53 status (P = 0.005), and c-myc amplification (P = 0.016).

Conclusion: Different prognostic information is supplied by nuclear and cytoplasmic survivin in breast cancer. Nuclear survivin is a poor prognostic marker in breast cancer. Moreover, CNR of survivin, as determined by image analysis, is an independent prognostic factor.
Data from Monitoring Caspase-3 Activation with a Multimodality Imaging Sensor in Living Subjects
Authors: Ray Pritha , De Abhijit , Patel Manishkumar , Gambhir Sanjiv Sam
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Capsase-3 plays an important role in chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in many cancers. Herein, we applied a multimodality reporter vector to monitor caspase-3 activation indirectly in live cells and tumors of living animals undergoing apoptosis.

Experimental Design: A fusion protein (MTF) was constructed by combining three different reporter proteins, red fluorescent protein (mRFP1), firefly luciferase (FL), and HSV1-sr39 truncated thymidine kinase (TK), linked through a caspase-3 recognizable polypeptide linker. After cleavage by caspase-3, a significant gain in mRFP1, FL, and TK activity are observed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting and enzyme-based assays. A melanoma cell line (B16F10-mtf-hrl) stably expressing mtf (to measure caspase-3 activation) and hrl-IRES-gfp (to determine the decrease in a number of viable cells) vectors was generated to measure two independent molecular events upon treatment.

Results: Upon induction with 8 μmol/L staurosporine, the fusion protein showed a 2.8-fold increase in FL (P = 0.03), a 1.5-fold increase in TK (P = not significant), and a 2-fold increase in mRFP1 (P = 0.05) activity in 293T cells. Bioluminescence and micropositron emission tomography imaging of the apoptotic B16F10-mtf-hrl tumors showed a 2-fold higher FL activity (897 versus 416) and a 2-fold higher TK activity (10.3 versus 3.87) than control tumors when normalized with RL activity. Using a similar normalization approach, the time kinetics of caspase-3 activation by two protein kinase-C inhibitors was noninvasively monitored in living mice.

Conclusion: This multimodality caspase sensor vector could effectively and noninvasively monitor caspase-3 activation from single live cells to a multicellular tumor environment and, thus, would be a valuable tool for drug screening in preclinical models and future patient cell based therapy.
Data from Activation of the Osteopontin/Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Pathway Correlates with Prostate Cancer Progression
Authors: Castellano Giancarlo , Malaponte Grazia , Mazzarino Maria C. , Figini Mariangela , Marchese Francesco , Gangemi Pietro , Travali Salvatore , Stivala Franca , Canevari Silvana , Libra Massimo
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Prostate cancer remains the second most frequent cause of tumor-related deaths in the Western world. Additional markers for the identification of prostate cancer development and progression are needed. Osteopontin (OPN), which activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), is considered a prognostic biomarker in several cancers. “In silico” and experimental approaches were used to determine whether OPN-mediated MMP activation may be a signal of prostate cancer progression.

Experimental Design: Pearson correlation coefficients were computed for each OPN/MMP pair across seven publicly available prostate cancer gene expression data sets. Using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, 101 cancer-related gene sets were analyzed for association with OPN and MMP-9 expression. OPN, MMP-9, MMP-2 tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 plasma levels, and MMP gelatinase activity were measured by ELISA and zymography in 96 and 92 patients with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia, respectively, and 125 age-matched healthy men.

Results: Computational analyses identified a significant correlation only between MMP-9 and OPN, and showed significant enrichment scores in “cell proliferation”, “genes constituting the phosphoinositide-3-kinase predictor”, “proliferation signature”, and “tumor metastasis” gene sets in association with both OPN and MMP-9. Plasma analyses revealed a significant increase in OPN and MMP-9 levels and activity in patients with prostate cancer in association with clinical variables (prostate-specific antigen >4 ng/mL and Gleason score >7). Significant correlation between OPN and MMP-9 levels were also observed. Mean plasma levels of OPN and MMP-9 decreased in patients with prostate cancer within 6 months after prostatectomy.

Conclusions: The concordant computational and experimental data indicate that the extent of OPN pathway activation correlates with prostate cancer progression.
Data from Impact of Abcc2 (Mrp2) and Abcc3 (Mrp3) on the In vivo Elimination of Methotrexate and its Main Toxic Metabolite 7-hydroxymethotrexate
Authors: Vlaming Maria L.H. , Pala Zeliha , van Esch Anita , Wagenaar Els , van Tellingen Olaf , de Waart Dirk R. , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J. , van de Wetering Koen , Schinkel Alfred H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: ATP-binding cassette sub-family C member 2 [ABCC2; multidrug resistance–associated protein 2 (MRP2)] and ABCC3 (MRP3) mediate the elimination of toxic compounds, such as drugs and carcinogens, and have a large overlap in substrate specificity. We investigated the roles of Abcc2 and Abcc3 in the elimination of the anticancer drug methotrexate (MTX) and its toxic metabolite 7-hydroxymethotrexate (7OH-MTX) in vivo.

Experimental Design:Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice were generated, characterized, and used to investigate possibly overlapping or complementary roles of Abcc2 and Abcc3 in the elimination of MTX and 7OH-MTX after i.v. administration of 50 mg/kg MTX.

Results:Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice were viable and fertile. In Abcc2−/− mice, the plasma area under the curve (AUCi.v.) for MTX was 2.0-fold increased compared with wild type, leading to 1.6-fold increased urinary excretion, which was not seen in Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice. Biliary excretion of MTX was 3.7-fold reduced in Abcc2−/− but unchanged in Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice. The plasma AUCi.v.s of 7OH-MTX were 6.0-fold and 4.3-fold increased in Abcc2−/− and Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice, respectively, leading to increased urinary excretion. The biliary excretion of 7OH-MTX was 5.8-fold reduced in Abcc2−/− but unchanged in Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice. 7OH-MTX accumulated substantially in the liver of Abcc2−/− and especially Abcc2;Abcc3−/− mice.

Conclusions: Abcc2 is important for (biliary) excretion of MTX and its toxic metabolite 7OH-MTX. When Abcc2 is absent, Abcc3 transports MTX and 7OH-MTX back from the liver into the circulation, leading to increased plasma levels and urinary excretion. Variation in ABCC2 and/or ABCC3 activity may therefore have profound effects on the elimination and severity of toxicity of MTX and 7OH-MTX after MTX treatment of patients.
Data from Proliferation Imaging to Measure Early Cancer Response to Targeted Therapy
Authors: Mankoff David A. , Eary Janet F.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Positron emission tomography imaging using thymidine and analogues labeled with positron emitters provides noninvasive and quantitative estimates of regional cellular proliferation. This CCR Translations summary reviews the biological basis for proliferation imaging and discusses recent results using 18F-fluorothymidine-positron emission tomography to measure response to targeted therapy in the context of prior studies and potential future applications.
Data from HER-2 Gene Amplification, HER-2 and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor mRNA and Protein Expression, and Lapatinib Efficacy in Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Press Michael F. , Finn Richard S. , Cameron David , Di Leo Angelo , Geyer Charles E. , Villalobos Ivonne E. , Santiago Angela , Guzman Roberta , Gasparyan Armen , Ma Yanling , Danenberg Kathy , Martin Anne Marie , Williams Lisa , Oliva Cristina , Stein Steven , Gagnon Robert , Arbushites Michael , Koehler Maria T.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Biomarkers from two randomized phase III trials were analyzed to optimize selection of patients for lapatinib therapy.

Experimental Design: In available breast cancer tissue from EGF30001 (paclitaxel ± lapatinib in HER-2-negative/unknown metastatic breast cancer, n = 579) and EGF100151 (capecitabine ± lapatinib in HER-2-positive metastatic breast cancer, n = 399), HER-2 gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), HER-2 mRNA by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), HER-2 protein expression by HercepTest immunohistochemistry (IHC), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mRNA level by RT-PCR, and EGFR protein by IHC were analyzed and compared with clinical outcome. HER-2 was determined by FISH in an academic reference/research laboratory and in a large, high-volume commercial reference laboratory.

Results: The HER-2 gene was amplified in 47% (344 of 733) and IHC was 3+ in 35% (279 of 798), with significant correlation (P < 0.01) between FISH and IHC. Positive EGFR immunostaining (IHC 1+, 2+, or 3+) in 28% (213 of 761) correlated with EGFR mRNA levels by RT-PCR (r = 0.59; P < 0.01). HER-2 gene amplification/overexpression was associated with improved clinical outcomes (progression-free survival; P < 0.001) in both trials. A significant improvement in outcome was seen in FISH-positive and IHC 0, 1+, or 2+ patients. HER-2 mRNA expression correlated with HER-2 FISH (r = 0.83) and IHC status (r = 0.72; n = 138). No correlation was found between EGFR expression (IHC or mRNA) and responsiveness to lapatinib regardless of HER-2 status. Although a significant correlation with lapatinib responsiveness was observed among “HER-2-negative” breast cancer patients in the large, high-volume commercial reference laboratory, this was not confirmed in the academic reference/research laboratory.

Conclusions: Women with HER-2-positive metastatic breast cancer benefit from lapatinib, whereas women with HER-2-negative metastatic breast cancer derive no incremental benefit from lapatinib.
Data from A Phase I Dose-Escalation Study of Danusertib (PHA-739358) Administered as a 24-Hour Infusion with and without Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor in a 14-Day Cycle in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Cohen Roger B. , Jones Suzanne F. , Aggarwal Charu , von Mehren Margaret , Cheng Jonathan , Spigel David R. , Greco F. Anthony , Mariani Mariangela , Rocchetti Maurizio , Ceruti Roberta , Comis Silvia , Laffranchi Bernard , Moll Jurgen , Burris Howard A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: This study was conducted to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of the i.v. pan-aurora kinase inhibitor PHA-739358, danusertib, in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Experimental Design: In part 1, patients received escalating doses of danusertib (24-hour infusion every 14 days) without filgrastim (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, G-CSF). Febrile neutropenia was the dose-limiting toxicity without G-CSF. Further dose escalation was done in part 2 with G-CSF. Blood samples were collected for danusertib pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Skin biopsies were collected to assess histone H3 phosphorylation (pH3).

Results: Fifty-six patients were treated, 40 in part 1 and 16 in part 2. Febrile neutropenia was the dose-limiting toxicity in part 1 without G-CSF. Most other adverse events were grade 1 to 2, occurring at doses ≥360 mg/m2 with similar incidence in parts 1 and 2. The maximum tolerated dose without G-CSF is 500 mg/m2. The recommended phase 2 dose in part 2 with G-CSF is 750 mg/m2. Danusertib showed dose-proportional pharmacokinetics in parts 1 and 2 with a median half-life of 18 to 26 hours. pH3 modulation in skin biopsies was observed at ≥500 mg/m2. One patient with refractory small cell lung cancer (1,000 mg/m2 with G-CSF) had an objective response lasting 23 weeks. One patient with refractory ovarian cancer had 27% tumor regression and 30% CA125 decline.

Conclusions: Danusertib was well tolerated with target inhibition in skin at ≥500 mg/m2. Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity, including a partial response and several occurrences of prolonged stable disease, was seen across a variety of advanced refractory cancers. Phase II studies are ongoing. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(21):6694–701)
Data from Impaired STAT Phosphorylation in T Cells from Melanoma Patients in Response to IL-2: Association with Clinical Stage
Authors: Mortarini Roberta , Vegetti Claudia , Molla Alessandra , Arienti Flavio , Ravagnani Fernando , Maurichi Andrea , Patuzzo Roberto , Santinami Mario , Anichini Andrea
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To assess the extent of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) activation in response to interleukin 2 (IL-2) in melanoma patients' T cells, along with clinical stage of tumor progression.

Experimental Design: T lymphocytes from peripheral blood of healthy donors and of American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I to IV melanoma patients, as well as from metastatic lymph nodes of patients, were evaluated for responsiveness to IL-2. CFSE assays and single-cell phospho-STAT–specific flow cytometry screening were used.

Results. T cells from advanced melanoma patients, in comparison with healthy donors, showed reduced proliferation to IL-2 and IL-15, but not to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. Impaired response occurred in CCR7+ and CCR7− T-cell subsets, but not in CD3− CD8+ natural killer (NK) cells, and was not explained by induction of apoptosis, increased cytokine consumption, or altered IL-2R subunit expression in patients' T lymphocytes. By phospho-specific flow cytometry, defective STAT1 and STAT5 activation in response to IL-2 was found mainly in T lymphocytes from peripheral blood and/or tumor site of American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III and IV patients, compared with stage I and II patients and to donors, and in melanoma antigen-specific T cells isolated from metastatic lymph nodes. At tumor site, impaired STAT activation in T cells did not correlate with frequency of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cells. Serum from advanced melanoma patients inhibited IL-2–dependent STAT activation in donors' T cells and a neutralizing monoclonal antibody to transforming growth factor β1 counteracted such inhibition.

Conclusions: These results provide evidence for development of impaired STAT signaling in response to IL-2, along with clinical evolution of the disease, in melanoma patients' T cells.
Data from Radiotherapy Decreases Vascular Density and Causes Hypoxia with Macrophage Aggregation in TRAMP-C1 Prostate Tumors
Authors: Chen Fang-Hsin , Chiang Chi-Shiun , Wang Chun-Chieh , Tsai Chien-Sheng , Jung Shih-Ming , Lee Chung-Chi , McBride William H. , Hong Ji-Hong
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate how single or fractionated doses of radiation change the microenvironment in transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP)-C1 tumors with respect to vascularity, hypoxia, and macrophage infiltrates.

Experimental Design: Murine prostate TRAMP-C1 tumors were grown in C57BL/6J mice to 4 mm tumor diameter and were irradiated with either 25 Gy in a single dose or 60 Gy in 15 fractions. Changes in vascularity, hypoxia, and macrophage infiltrates were assessed by immunohistochemistry and molecular assays.

Results: Tumor growth was delayed for 1 week after both radiation schedules. Tumor microvascular density (MVD) progressively decreased over a 3-week period to nadirs of 25% and 40% of unirradiated tumors for single or fractionated treatment, respectively. In accord with the decrease in MVDs, mRNA levels of endothelial markers, such as CD31, endoglin, and TIE, decreased over the same time period after irradiation. Central dilated vessels developed surrounded by avascularized hypoxic regions that became infiltrated with aggregates of CD68+ tumor-associated macrophages, reaching a maximum at 3 weeks after irradiation. Necrotic regions decreased and were more dispersed.

Conclusion: Irradiation of TRAMP-C1 tumors with either single or fractionated doses decreases MVD, leading to the development of disperse chronic hypoxic regions, which are infiltrated with CD68+ tumor-associated macrophages. Approaches to interfere in the development of these effects are promising strategies to enhance the efficacy of cancer radiotherapy.