bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from A Personalized Preclinical Model to Evaluate the Metastatic Potential of Patient-Derived Colon Cancer Initiating Cells
Authors: Puig Isabel , Chicote Irene , Tenbaum Stephan P. , Arqués Oriol , Herance José Raúl , Gispert Juan D. , Jimenez José , Landolfi Stefania , Caci Karina , Allende Helena , Mendizabal Leire , Moreno Debora , Charco Ramón , Espín Eloy , Prat Aleix , Elez Maria Elena , Argilés Guillem , Vivancos Ana , Tabernero Josep , Rojas Santiago , Palmer Héctor G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Within the aim of advancing precision oncology, we have generated a collection of patient-derived xenografts (PDX) characterized at the molecular level, and a preclinical model of colon cancer metastasis to evaluate drug-response and tumor progression.

Experimental Design: We derived cells from 32 primary colorectal carcinomas and eight liver metastases and generated PDX annotated for their clinical data, gene expression, mutational, and histopathological traits. Six models were injected orthotopically into the cecum wall of NOD-SCID mice in order to evaluate metastasis. Three of them were treated with chemotherapy (oxaliplatin) and three with API2 to target AKT activity. Tumor growth and metastasis progression were analyzed by positron emission tomography (PET).

Results: Patient-derived cells generated tumor xenografts that recapitulated the same histopathological and genetic features as the original patients' carcinomas. We show an 87.5% tumor take rate that is one of the highest described for implanted cells derived from colorectal cancer patients. Cecal injection generated primary carcinomas and distant metastases. Oxaliplatin treatment prevented metastasis and API2 reduced tumor growth as evaluated by PET.

Conclusions: Our improved protocol for cancer cell engraftment has allowed us to build a rapidly expanding collection of colorectal PDX, annotated for their clinical data, gene expression, mutational, and histopathological statuses. We have also established a mouse model for metastatic colon cancer with patient-derived cells in order to monitor tumor growth, metastasis evolution, and response to treatment by PET. Our PDX models could become the best preclinical approach through which to validate new biomarkers or investigate the metastatic potential and drug-response of individual patients. Clin Cancer Res; 19(24); 6787–801. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Primary and Acquired Resistance of Colorectal Cancer Cells to Anti-EGFR Antibodies Converge on MEK/ERK Pathway Activation and Can Be Overcome by Combined MEK/EGFR Inhibition
Authors: Troiani Teresa , Napolitano Stefania , Vitagliano Donata , Morgillo Floriana , Capasso Anna , Sforza Vincenzo , Nappi Anna , Ciardiello Davide , Ciardiello Fortunato , Martinelli Erika
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The EGFR-independent activation of the RAS/RAF/MEK/MAPK pathway is one of the resistance mechanisms to cetuximab.

Experimental Design: We have evaluated, in vitro and in vivo, the effects of BAY 86-9766, a selective MEK1/2 inhibitor, in a panel of human colorectal cancer cell lines with primary or acquired resistance to cetuximab.

Results: Among the colorectal cancer cell lines, five with a KRAS mutation (LOVO, HCT116, HCT15, SW620, and SW480) and one with a BRAF mutation (HT29) were resistant to the antiproliferative effects of cetuximab, whereas two cells (GEO and SW48) were highly sensitive. Treatment with BAY 86-9766 determined dose-dependent growth inhibition in all cancer cells, including two human colorectal cancer cells with acquired resistance to cetuximab (GEO-CR and SW48-CR), with the exception of HCT15 cells. Combined treatment with cetuximab and BAY 86-9766 induced a synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic effects with blockade in the MAPK and AKT pathway in cells with either primary or acquired resistance to cetuximab. The synergistic antiproliferative effects were confirmed using other two selective MEK1/2 inhibitors, selumetinib and pimasertib, in combination with cetuximab. Moreover, inhibition of MEK expression by siRNA restored cetuximab sensitivity in resistant cells. In nude mice bearing established human HCT15, HCT116, SW48-CR, and GEO-CR xenografts, the combined treatment with cetuximab and BAY 86-9766 caused significant tumor growth inhibition and increased mice survival.

Conclusion: These results suggest that activation of MEK is involved in both primary and acquired resistance to cetuximab and the inhibition of EGFR and MEK could be a strategy for overcoming anti-EGFR resistance in patients with colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(14); 3775–86. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Prognostic Significance of Promoter DNA Methylation in Patients with Childhood Neuroblastoma
Authors: Lau Diana T. , Hesson Luke B. , Norris Murray D. , Marshall Glenn M. , Haber Michelle , Ashton Lesley J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To characterize the clinical significance of promoter methylation in a cohort of primary neuroblastoma tumors and investigate the association between DNA methylation and clinical outcome.

Experimental Design: A customized Illumina GoldenGate methylation assay was used to assess methylation status of 96 CpG sites within 48 candidate genes in primary neuroblastoma tumors obtained from 131 children diagnosed in Australia. Genes were selected on the basis of previous reports of altered DNA methylation in embryonal cancers. Levels of DNA methylation were validated in a subset of 48 patient samples using combined bisulfite restriction analysis (CoBRA) and bisulfite sequencing. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate the association between promoter hypermethylation and the risk of relapse/death within 5 years of diagnosis, while adjusting for known prognostic factors including MYCN amplification, age, and stage at diagnosis.

Results: Levels of promoter methylation of DNAJC15, neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor 1 or TrkA (NTRK1), and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 10D (TNFRSF10D), were higher in older patients at diagnosis (P < 0.01), whereas higher levels of methylation of DNAJC15, NTRK1, and PYCARD were observed in patients with MYCN amplification (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, hypermethylation of folate hydrolase (FOLH1), myogenic differentiation-1 (MYOD1), and thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) remained significant independent predictors of poorer clinical outcome after adjusting for known prognostic factors (P ≤ 0.017). Moreover, more than 30% of patients displayed hypermethylation in 2 genes or more and were at least 2 times more likely to relapse or die (HR = 2.72, 95% confidence interval = 1.55–4.78, P = 0.001), independent of MYCN status, age, and stage at diagnosis.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight the potential use of methylation profiling to identify additional prognostic markers and detect new therapeutic targets for selected patient subsets. Clin Cancer Res; 18(20); 5690–700. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Molecular Pathways: Interferon/Stat1 Pathway: Role in the Tumor Resistance to Genotoxic Stress and Aggressive Growth
Authors: Khodarev Nikolai N. , Roizman Bernard , Weichselbaum Ralph R.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
STAT1 is activated by IFNs and other cell signals. Following activation, STAT1 is translocated to the nuclei and activates transcription of IFN-stimulated genes. Although the activation of STAT1 by IFNs is classically associated with antiviral defense and tumor-suppressive functions, emerging data indicate that expression of the STAT1 pathway confers cellular resistance to DNA-damaging agents and mediates aggressive tumor growth. Recent advances in the development of Janus-activated kinase/Stat inhibitors and peptide inhibitors specific for individual Stat proteins may provide new insights into the controversial functions of this pathway. Clin Cancer Res; 18(11); 3015–21. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Nimbolide, a Limonoid Triterpene, Inhibits Growth of Human Colorectal Cancer Xenografts by Suppressing the Proinflammatory Microenvironment
Authors: Gupta Subash C. , Prasad Sahdeo , Sethumadhavan Dhanya R. , Nair Mangalam S. , Mo Yin-Yuan , Aggarwal Bharat B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Extensive research over the past decade has revealed that the proinflammatory microenvironment plays a critical role in the development of colorectal cancer. Whether nimbolide, a limonoid triterpene, can inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer was investigated in the present study.

Experimental Design: The effect of nimbolide on proliferation of colorectal cancer cell lines was examined by MTT assay, apoptosis by caspase activation and poly-ADP ribose polymerase cleavage, NF-κB activation by DNA-binding assay, and protein expression by Western blotting. The effect of nimbolide on the tumor growth in vivo was examined in colorectal cancer xenografts in a nude mouse model.

Results: Nimbolide inhibited proliferation, induced apoptosis, and suppressed NF-κB activation and NF-κB–regulated tumorigenic proteins in colorectal cancer cells. The suppression of NF-κB activation by nimbolide was caused by sequential inhibition of IκB kinase (IKK) activation, IκBα phosphorylation, and p65 nuclear translocation. Furthermore, the effect of nimbolide on IKK activity was found to be direct. In vivo, nimbolide (at 5 and 20 mg/kg body weight), injected intraperitoneally after tumor inoculation, significantly decreased the volume of colorectal cancer xenografts. The limonoid-treated xenografts exhibited significant downregulation in the expression of proteins involved in tumor cell survival (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, c-IAP-1, survivin, and Mcl-1), proliferation (c-Myc and cyclin D1), invasion (MMP-9, ICAM-1), metastasis (CXCR4), and angiogenesis (VEGF). The limonoid was found to be bioavailable in the blood plasma and tumor tissues of treated mice.

Conclusions: Our studies provide evidence that nimbolide can suppress the growth of human colorectal cancer through modulation of the proinflammatory microenvironment. Clin Cancer Res; 19(16); 4465–76. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Biomarkers for EGFR-Antagonist Response: In the Genes and on the Genes!
Authors: Easwaran Hariharan , Baylin Stephen B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Patients with non–small cell lung carcinoma containing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–activating mutations benefit from EGFR-antagonist therapy. EGFR-antagonist sensitivity is also correlated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition, which Walter and colleagues show to be marked by DNA-methylation changes. If validated, these markers could help identify patients with wild-type EGFR who will benefit from EGFR therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 18(8); 2121–3. ©2012 AACR.
Data from A Multicenter Phase I Trial of PX-866, an Oral Irreversible Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Hong David S. , Bowles Daniel W. , Falchook Gerald S. , Messersmith Wells A. , George Goldy C. , O'Bryant Cindy L. , Vo Alex C. H. , Klucher Kevin , Herbst Roy S. , Eckhardt S. Gail , Peterson Scott , Hausman Diana F. , Kurzrock Razelle , Jimeno Antonio
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The objectives of the study were to evaluate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), safety, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and antitumor activity of PX-866 in patients with incurable cancers.

Experimental Design: This was a phase I, open-label, dose-escalation study. Drug was administered orally once per day either on an intermittent (arm 1; days 1–5 and 8–12 of a 28-day cycle) or continuous (arm 2; days 1–28 of a 28-day cycle) schedule. Additional patients were treated at the arm 2 MTD in a food effects substudy.

Results: Eighty-four patients were treated in the arm 1 (n = 51), arm 2 (n = 20), and food effects (n = 13) cohorts. The most frequent study drug–related adverse events were gastrointestinal disorders (69.0%), with diarrhea being the most common (48.8%). The MTD was 12 and 8 mg for arm 1 and 2, respectively. The dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) consisted of grade III diarrhea (n = 3) and grade III elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST; n = 1). The pharmacokinetics profile was dose proportional, with no evidence of drug accumulation. PX-866–associated inhibition of platelet pAKTSER473 was observed at the arm 2 MTD. The best response per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) was stable disease in 22% of evaluable patients in arm 1, 53% in arm 2, and 11% in the food effects cohort. Eight patients were on study for 4 or more months.

Conclusions: This first-in-human study shows that PX-866, an irreversible small-molecule inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), was well tolerated and was associated with prolonged stable disease, particularly when using a continuous dosing schedule. Clin Cancer Res; 18(15); 4173–82. ©2012 AACR.
Data from IGFBP Ratio Confers Resistance to IGF Targeting and Correlates with Increased Invasion and Poor Outcome in Breast Tumors
Authors: Becker Marc A. , Hou Xiaonan , Harrington Sean C. , Weroha S. John , Gonzalez Sergio E. , Jacob Kristina A. , Carboni Joan M. , Gottardis Marco M. , Haluska Paul
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To improve the significance of insulin-like growth factor–binding protein 5 (IGFBP-5) as a prognostic and potentially predictive marker in patients with breast cancer.

Experimental Design: Increased IGFBP-5 expression was identified in MCF-7 cells resistant (MCF-7R4) to the IGF-1R/insulin receptor (InsR) inhibitor BMS-536924 and its role examined by targeted knockdown and overexpression in multiple experimental models. Protein expression of IGFBP-5 was measured by immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 76 patients with breast cancer to examine correlative associations with invasive tumor fraction and outcome. The use of a combined IGFBP-5/IGFBP-4 (BPR) expression ratio was applied to predict anti-IGF-1R/InsR response in a panel of breast cancer lines and outcome in multiple breast tumor cohorts.

Results: IGFBP-5 knockdown decreased BMS-536924 resistance in MCF-7R4 cells, whereas IGFBP-5 overexpression in MCF-7 cells conferred resistance. When compared with pathologically normal reduction mammoplasty tissue, IGFBP-5 expression levels were upregulated in both invasive and histologically normal adjacent breast cancer tissue. In both univariate and multivariate modeling, metastasis-free survival, recurrence free survival (RFS), and overall survival (OS) were significantly associated with high IGFBP-5 expression. Prognostic power of IGFBP-5 was further increased with the addition of IGFBP-4 where tumors were ranked based upon IGFBP-5/IGFBP-4 expression ratio (BPR). Multiple breast cancer cohorts confirm that BPR (high vs. low) was a strong predictor of RFS and OS.

Conclusion: IGFBP-5 expression is a marker of poor outcome in patients with breast cancer. An IGFBP-5/IGFBP-4 expression ratio may serve as a surrogate biomarker of IGF pathway activation and predict sensitivity to anti-IGF-1R targeting. Clin Cancer Res; 18(6); 1808–17. ©2012 AACR.
Data from A Five-Gene Hedgehog Signature Developed as a Patient Preselection Tool for Hedgehog Inhibitor Therapy in Medulloblastoma
Authors: Shou Yaping , Robinson Douglas M. , Amakye Dereck D. , Rose Kristine L. , Cho Yoon-Jae , Ligon Keith L. , Sharp Thad , Haider Asifa S. , Bandaru Raj , Ando Yuichi , Geoerger Birgit , Doz François , Ashley David M. , Hargrave Darren R. , Casanova Michela , Tawbi Hussein A. , Rodon Jordi , Thomas Anne L. , Mita Alain C. , MacDonald Tobey J. , Kieran Mark W.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Distinct molecular subgroups of medulloblastoma, including hedgehog (Hh) pathway–activated disease, have been reported. We identified and clinically validated a five-gene Hh signature assay that can be used to preselect patients with Hh pathway–activated medulloblastoma.

Experimental Design: Gene characteristics of the Hh medulloblastoma subgroup were identified through published bioinformatic analyses. Thirty-two genes shown to be differentially expressed in fresh-frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples and reproducibly analyzed by RT-PCR were measured in matched samples. These data formed the basis for building a multi-gene logistic regression model derived through elastic net methods from which the five-gene Hh signature emerged after multiple iterations. On the basis of signature gene expression levels, the model computed a propensity score to determine Hh activation using a threshold set a priori. The association between Hh activation status and tumor response to the Hh pathway inhibitor sonidegib (LDE225) was analyzed.

Results: Five differentially expressed genes in medulloblastoma (GLI1, SPHK1, SHROOM2, PDLIM3, and OTX2) were found to associate with Hh pathway activation status. In an independent validation study, Hh activation status of 25 medulloblastoma samples showed 100% concordance between the five-gene signature and Affymetrix profiling. Further, in medulloblastoma samples from 50 patients treated with sonidegib, all 6 patients who responded were found to have Hh-activated tumors. Three patients with Hh-activated tumors had stable or progressive disease. No patients with Hh-nonactivated tumors responded.

Conclusions: This five-gene Hh signature can robustly identify Hh-activated medulloblastoma and may be used to preselect patients who might benefit from sonidegib treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 21(3); 585–93. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Failure of Iniparib to Inhibit Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase In Vitro
Authors: Patel Anand G. , De Lorenzo Silvana B. , Flatten Karen S. , Poirier Guy G. , Kaufmann Scott H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors are undergoing extensive clinical testing for their single-agent activity in homologous recombination (HR)-deficient tumors and ability to enhance the action of certain DNA-damaging agents. Compared with other PARP inhibitors in development, iniparib (4-iodo-3-nitrobenzamide) is notable for its simple structure and the reported ability of its intracellular metabolite 4-iodo-3-nitrosobenzamide to covalently inhibit PARP1 under cell-free conditions. The present preclinical studies were conducted to compare the actions iniparib with the more extensively characterized PARP inhibitors olaparib and veliparib.

Experimental Design: The abilities of iniparib, olaparib, and veliparib to (i) selectively induce apoptosis or inhibit colony formation in HR-deficient cell lines, (ii) selectively sensitize HR-proficient cells to topoisomerase I poisons, and (iii) inhibit formation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymer (pADPr) in intact cells were compared.

Results: Consistent with earlier reports, olaparib and veliparib selectively induced apoptosis and inhibited colony formation in cells lacking BRCA2 or ATM. Moreover, like earlier generation PARP inhibitors, olaparib and veliparib sensitized cells to the topoisomerase I poisons camptothecin and topotecan. Finally, olaparib and veliparib inhibited formation of pADPr in intact cells. In contrast, iniparib exhibited little or no ability to selectively kill HR-deficient cells, sensitize cells to topoisomerase I poisons, or inhibit pADPr formation in situ. In further experiments, iniparib also failed to sensitize cells to cisplatin, gemcitabine, or paclitaxel.

Conclusions: While iniparib kills normal and neoplastic cells at high (>40 μmol/L) concentrations, its effects are unlikely to reflect PARP inhibition and should not be used to guide decisions about other PARP inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 18(6); 1655–62. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Early [18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography at Two Days of Gefitinib Treatment Predicts Clinical Outcome in Patients with Adenocarcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Takahashi Ryo , Hirata Haruhiko , Tachibana Isao , Shimosegawa Eku , Inoue Atsuo , Nagatomo Izumi , Takeda Yoshito , Kida Hiroshi , Goya Sho , Kijima Takashi , Yoshida Mitsuhiro , Kumagai Toru , Kumanogoh Atsushi , Okumura Meinoshin , Hatazawa Jun , Kawase Ichiro
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Positron emission tomography (PET) with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) is increasingly used in early assessment of tumor response after chemotherapy. We investigated whether a change in [18F]FDG uptake at 2 days of gefitinib treatment predicts outcome in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

Experimental Design: Twenty patients were enrolled. [18F]FDG-PET/computed tomographic (CT) scan was carried out before and 2 days after gefitinib treatment. Maximum standardized uptake values (SUV) were measured, and post-gefitinib percentage changes in SUV were calculated. Early metabolic response (SUV decline < −25%) was compared with morphologic response evaluated by CT scan and with progression-free survival (PFS).

Results: At 2 days of gefitinib treatment, 10 patients (50%) showed metabolic response, 8 had metabolic stable disease, and 2 had progressive metabolic disease. Percentage changes of SUV at 2 days were correlated with those of tumor size in CT at 1 month (R2 = 0.496; P = 0.0008). EGFR gene was assessable in 15 patients, and of 12 patients with EGFR mutations, 8 showed metabolic response at 2 days and 6 showed morphologic response at 1 month. None of 3 patients with wild-type EGFR showed metabolic or morphologic response. Metabolic response at 2 days was not statistically associated with PFS (P = 0.095), but when a cutoff value of −20% in SUV decline was used, metabolic responders had longer PFS (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Early assessment of [18F]FDG tumor uptake with PET at 2 days of gefitinib treatment could be useful to predict clinical outcome earlier than conventional CT evaluation in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Clin Cancer Res; 18(1); 220–8. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Predicting IGF-1R Therapy Response in Bone Sarcomas: Immuno-SPECT Imaging with Radiolabeled R1507
Authors: Fleuren Emmy D.G. , Versleijen-Jonkers Yvonne M.H. , van de Luijtgaarden Addy C.M. , Molkenboer-Kuenen Janneke D.M. , Heskamp Sandra , Roeffen Melissa H.S. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M. , Houghton Peter J. , Oyen Wim J.G. , Boerman Otto C. , van der Graaf Winette T.A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate whether indium-111–labeled R1507 (111In-R1507) immuno-SPECT (single—photon emission computed tomography), a novel noninvasive, in vivo screening method to visualize membranous insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) expression and accessibility, can be used to predict IGF-1R treatment (R1507) response in bone sarcomas.

Experimental Design: BALB/c nude mice were subcutaneously implanted with IGF-1R–expressing human bone sarcoma xenografts (OS-1, EW-5, and EW-8) which showed high, modest, or no response, respectively, to R1507, a monoclonal antibody targeting the extracellular domain of IGF-1R. An IGF-1R–negative tumor (OS-33), unresponsive to IGF-1R inhibitors, was examined as well. Mice were injected with 111In-R1507. Biodistribution and immuno-SPECT/computed tomography imaging studies were carried out 1, 3, and 7 days p.i. in mice with OS-1 and EW-5 xenografts and 3 days p.i. in mice with EW-8 and OS-33 xenografts.

Results: Biodistribution studies showed specific accumulation of 111In-R1507 in OS-1 and EW-5 xenografts (27.5 ± 6.5%ID/g and 14.0 ± 2.8%ID/g, 3 days p.i., respectively). Most importantly, 111In-R1507 uptake in IGF-1R positive, but unresponsive, EW-8 xenografts (6.5 ± 1.5%ID/g, 3 days p.i.) was similar to that of the IGF-1R–negative OS-33 tumor (5.5 ± 0.6%ID/g, 3 days p.i.). Uptake in normal tissues was low and nonspecific. Corresponding immuno-SPECT images clearly discriminated between high, modest, and nonresponding tumors by showing a homogeneous (OS-1), heterogeneous (EW-5), or nonspecific (EW-8 and OS-33) tumor uptake of 111In-R1507.

Conclusions:111In-R1507 immuno-SPECT is an excellent method to visualize membranous IGF-1R expression and target accessibility in vivo in human bone sarcoma xenografts and may serve as an independent marker to predict IGF-1R therapy (R1507) response in bone sarcoma patients. Clin Cancer Res; 17(24); 7693–703. ©2011 AACR.
Data from A Randomized, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Racotumomab-Alum Vaccine as Switch Maintenance Therapy in Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Alfonso Sailyn , Valdés-Zayas Anet , Santiesteban Eduardo R. , Flores Yoanna I. , Areces Fernando , Hernández Maurenis , Viada Carmen E. , Mendoza Ivis C. , Guerra Pedro P. , García Elena , Ortiz Ramón A. , de la Torre Ana V. , Cepeda Meylán , Pérez Kirenia , Chong Eric , Hernández Ana María , Toledo Darien , González Zuyén , Mazorra Zaima , Crombet Tania , Pérez Rolando , Vázquez Ana María , Macías Amparo E.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Racotumomab-alum is an anti-idiotype vaccine targeting the NeuGcGM3 tumor-associated ganglioside. This clinical trial was conducted to provide a preliminary estimate of efficacy and safety of racotumomab as switch maintenance for patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Experimental design: Patients with stage IIIb/IV NSCLC who have at least stable disease after first-line chemotherapy were randomized 1:1 to racotumomab-alum (5 immunizations every 2 weeks and re-immunizations every 4 weeks) or placebo. Treatment was administered beyond progressive disease, until severe performance status worsening or toxicity. At progression, only five patients per group received further anticancer therapy. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS).

Results: One-hundred and seventy-six patients were randomized to racotumomab-alum (n = 87) and placebo (n = 89). Median OS was 8.23 and 6.80 months, respectively [HR, 0.63; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.46–0.87; P = 0.004]. Median progression-free survival (PFS) in vaccinated patients was 5.33 versus 3.90 months for placebo (HR, 0.73; 95% CI 0.53–0.99; P = 0.039). The most common adverse events in the racotumomab-alum arm were burning and pain at the injection site, bone pain, and asthenia. A high antibody response of IgM and IgG isotype against the NeuGcGM3 ganglioside was obtained. Hyperimmune sera were able to specifically recognize and kill the NeuGcGM3-expressing L1210 cell line. Patients who developed anti-NeuGcGM3 antibodies capable to bind and kill ≥30% L1210 cells showed longer median survival times.

Conclusions: Switch maintenance with racotumomab-alum is an effective and a well-tolerated treatment option for patients with advanced NSCLC. Clin Cancer Res; 20(14); 3660–71. ©2014 AACR.
Data from In Search of a Real “Targeted” Therapy for Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Brose Marcia S.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Over the past 5 years, patients with progressive radioactive iodine–refractory thyroid cancer have responded to “targeted” multikinase inhibitors, which inhibit angiogenesis and not the tumor cell. Here, selumetinib targets the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in papillary thyroid carcinoma and shows limited single-agent activity in the patients with tumors that harbor the V600EBRAF mutation. Clin Cancer Res; 18(7); 1827–9. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of Melanoma Growth by Small Molecules That Promote the Mitochondrial Localization of ATF2
Authors: Varsano Tal , Lau Eric , Feng Yongmei , Garrido Marine , Milan Loribelle , Heynen-Genel Susanne , Hassig Christian A. , Ronai Ze'ev A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Effective therapy for malignant melanoma, the leading cause of death from skin cancer, remains an area of significant unmet need in oncology. The elevated expression of PKCϵ in advanced metastatic melanoma results in the increased phosphorylation of the transcription factor ATF2 on threonine 52, which causes its nuclear localization and confers its oncogenic activities. The nuclear-to-mitochondrial translocation of ATF2 following genotoxic stress promotes apoptosis, a function that is largely lost in melanoma cells, due to its confined nuclear localization. Therefore, promoting the nuclear export of ATF2, which sensitizes melanoma cells to apoptosis, represents a novel therapeutic modality.

Experimental Design: We conducted a pilot high-throughput screen of 3,800 compounds to identify small molecules that promote melanoma cell death by inducing the cytoplasmic localization of ATF2. The imaging-based ATF2 translocation assay was conducted using UACC903 melanoma cells that stably express doxycycline-inducible GFP-ATF2.

Results: We identified two compounds (SBI-0089410 and SBI-0087702) that promoted the cytoplasmic localization of ATF2, reduced cell viability, inhibited colony formation, cell motility, and anchorage-free growth, and increased mitochondrial membrane permeability. SBI-0089410 inhibited the 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-l3-acetate (TPA)–induced membrane translocation of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, whereas both compounds decreased ATF2 phosphorylation by PKCϵ and ATF2 transcriptional activity. Overexpression of either constitutively active PKCϵ or phosphomimic mutant ATF2T52E attenuated the cellular effects of the compounds.

Conclusion: The imaging-based high-throughput screen provides a proof-of-concept for the identification of small molecules that block the oncogenic addiction to PKCϵ signaling by promoting ATF2 nuclear export, resulting in mitochondrial membrane leakage and melanoma cell death. Clin Cancer Res; 19(10); 2710–22. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Mutated BCR-ABL Generates Immunogenic T-cell Epitopes in CML Patients
Authors: Cai Ann , Keskin Derin B. , DeLuca David S. , Alonso Anselmo , Zhang Wandi , Zhang Guang Lan , Hammond Naa Norkor , Nardi Valentina , Stone Richard M. , Neuberg Donna , Sidney John , Brusic Vladimir , Wu Catherine J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Characterization of an approach to identify leukemia neoantigens arising in the context of drug resistance.

Experimental Design: We assessed whether leukemia neoantigens could be generated from drug-resistant mutations in BCR-ABL after imatinib relapse in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).

Results: We computationally predicted that approximately 70 peptides derived from 26 BCR-ABL mutations would bind eight common alleles of MHC class I (IC50 < 1,000 nmol/L). Seven of nine imatinib-resistant CML patients were predicted to generate at least 1 peptide that binds autologous HLA alleles. We predicted and confirmed that an E255K mutation-derived peptide would bind HLA-A3 with high affinity (IC50 = 28 nmol/L), and showed that this peptide is endogenously processed and presented. Polyfunctional E255K-specific CD8+ T cells were detected in two imatinib-resistant HLA-A3+ CML patients concurrent with an effective anti-CML response to further therapy.

Conclusions: Our in vitro studies support the hypothesis that leukemia-driven genetic alterations are targeted by the immune system in association with a clinical response, and suggest the possibility of immunizing relapsed patients with CML against newly acquired tumor neoantigens. Clin Cancer Res; 18(20); 5761–72. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Functional Profiling of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases and Downstream Signaling in Human Chondrosarcomas Identifies Pathways for Rational Targeted Therapy
Authors: Zhang Yi-Xiang , van Oosterwijk Jolieke G. , Sicinska Ewa , Moss Samuel , Remillard Stephen P. , van Wezel Tom , Bühnemann Claudia , Hassan Andrew B. , Demetri George D. , Bovée Judith V.M.G. , Wagner Andrew J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Chondrosarcomas are notoriously resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. We sought to identify critical signaling pathways that contribute to their survival and proliferation, and which may provide potential targets for rational therapeutic interventions.

Experimental Design: Activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) was surveyed using phospho-RTK arrays. S6 phosphorylation and NRAS mutational status were examined in chondrosarcoma primary tumor tissues. siRNA or small-molecule inhibitors against RTKs or downstream signaling proteins were applied to chondrosarcoma cells and changes in biochemical signaling, cell cycle, and cell viability were determined. In vivo antitumor activity of BEZ235, a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/mTOR inhibitor, was evaluated in a chondrosarcoma xenograft model.

Results: Several RTKs were identified as critical mediators of cell growth, but the RTK dependencies varied among cell lines. In exploration of downstream signaling pathways, strong S6 phosphorylation was found in 69% of conventional chondrosarcomas and 44% of dedifferentiated chondrosarcomas. Treatment with BEZ235 resulted in dramatic reduction in the growth of all chondrosarcoma cell lines. Tumor growth was similarly inhibited in a xenograft model of chondrosarcoma. In addition, chondrosarcoma cells with an NRAS mutation were sensitive to treatment with a mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal–regulated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor. Functional NRAS mutations were found in 12% of conventional central chondrosarcomas.

Conclusions: RTKs are commonly activated in chondrosarcoma, but because of their considerable heterogeneity, targeted inhibition of the PI3K/mTOR pathway represents a rational therapeutic strategy. Chondrosarcomas with NRAS mutations may benefit from treatment with MEK inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 19(14); 3796–807. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Rapid Angiogenesis Onset after Discontinuation of Sunitinib Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Griffioen Arjan W. , Mans Laurie A. , de Graaf Annemarie M.A. , Nowak-Sliwinska Patrycja , de Hoog Céline L.M.M. , de Jong Trees A.M. , Vyth-Dreese Florry A. , van Beijnum Judy R. , Bex Axel , Jonasch Eric
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the angiogenic changes in primary tumor tissue of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients treated with VEGF-targeted therapy.

Experimental Design: Phase II trials of VEGF pathway–targeted therapy given before cytoreductive surgery were carried out with metastatic RCC patients with the primary tumor in situ to investigate the necessity of nephrectomy. Primary tumor tissues were obtained and assessed for angiogenesis parameters. Results were compared with similar analyses on untreated tumors.

Results: Sunitinib or bevacizumab pretreatment resulted in a significant reduction of microvessel density in the primary tumor. Also, an increase in vascular pericyte coverage was found in sunitinib-pretreated tumors, consistent with efficient angiogenesis inhibition. Expression of several key regulators of angiogenesis was found to be suppressed in pretreated tissues, among which VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2 and platelet-derived growth factor-B. In addition, apoptosis in tumor and endothelial cells was induced. Interestingly, in sunitinib-pretreated tissues a dramatic increase of the number of proliferating endothelial cells was observed, which was not the case in bevacizumab-pretreated tumors. A positive correlation with the interval between halting the therapy and surgery was found, suggesting a compensatory angiogenic response caused by the discontinuation of sunitinib treatment.

Conclusion: This study describes, for the first time, the angiostatic response in human primary renal cancers at the tissue level upon treatment with VEGF-targeted therapy. Discontinuation of treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors leads to accelerated endothelial cell proliferation. The results of this study contribute important data to the ongoing discussion on the discontinuation of treatment with kinase inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 18(14); 3961–71. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Anticancer Effects of Niclosamide in Human Glioblastoma
Authors: Wieland Anja , Trageser Daniel , Gogolok Sabine , Reinartz Roman , Höfer Heike , Keller Mihaela , Leinhaas Anke , Schelle Ramona , Normann Sabine , Klaas Lil , Waha Andreas , Koch Philipp , Fimmers Rolf , Pietsch Torsten , Yachnis Anthony T. , Pincus David W. , Steindler Dennis A. , Brüstle Oliver , Simon Matthias , Glas Martin , Scheffler Björn
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Glioblastoma is a highly malignant, invariably fatal brain tumor for which effective pharmacotherapy remains an unmet medical need.

Experimental Design: Screening of a compound library of 160 synthetic and natural toxic substances identified the antihelmintic niclosamide as a previously unrecognized candidate for clinical development. Considering the cellular and interindividual heterogeneity of glioblastoma, a portfolio of short-term expanded primary human glioblastoma cells (pGBM; n = 21), common glioma lines (n = 5), and noncancer human control cells (n = 3) was applied as a discovery platform and for preclinical validation. Pharmacodynamic analysis, study of cell-cycle progression, apoptosis, cell migration, proliferation, and on the frequency of multipotent/self-renewing pGBM cells were conducted in vitro, and orthotopic xenotransplantation was used to confirm anticancer effects in vivo.

Results: Niclosamide led to cytostatic, cytotoxic, and antimigratory effects, strongly reduced the frequencies of multipotent/self-renewing cells in vitro, and after exposure significantly diminished the pGBMs' malignant potential in vivo. Mechanism of action analysis revealed that niclosamide simultaneously inhibited intracellular WNT/CTNNB1-, NOTCH-, mTOR-, and NF-κB signaling cascades. Furthermore, combinatorial drug testing established that a heterozygous deletion of the NFKBIA locus in glioblastoma samples could serve as a genomic biomarker for predicting a synergistic activity of niclosamide with temozolomide, the current standard in glioblastoma therapy.

Conclusions: Together, our data advocate the use of pGBMs for exploration of compound libraries to reveal unexpected leads, for example, niclosamide that might be suited for further development toward personalized clinical application. Clin Cancer Res; 19(15); 4124–36. ©2013 AACR.
Data from miRNA Landscape in Stage I Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Defines the Histotype Specificities
Authors: Calura Enrica , Fruscio Robert , Paracchini Lara , Bignotti Eliana , Ravaggi Antonella , Martini Paolo , Sales Gabriele , Beltrame Luca , Clivio Luca , Ceppi Lorenzo , Di Marino Mariacristina , Fuso Nerini Ilaria , Zanotti Laura , Cavalieri Duccio , Cattoretti Giorgio , Perego Patrizia , Milani Rodolfo , Katsaros Dionyssios , Tognon Germana , Sartori Enrico , Pecorelli Sergio , Mangioni Costantino , D'Incalci Maurizio , Romualdi Chiara , Marchini Sergio
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most lethal gynecologic diseases, with survival rate virtually unchanged for the past 30 years. EOC comprises different histotypes with molecular and clinical heterogeneity, but up till now the present gold standard platinum-based treatment has been conducted without any patient stratification. The aim of the present study is to generate microRNA (miRNA) profiles characteristic of each stage I EOC histotype, to identify subtype-specific biomarkers to improve our understanding underlying the tumor mechanisms.

Experimental Design: A collection of 257 snap-frozen stage I EOC tumor biopsies was gathered together from three tumor tissue collections and stratified into independent training (n = 183) and validation sets (n = 74). Microarray and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were used to generate and validate the histotype-specific markers. A novel dedicated resampling inferential strategy was developed and applied to identify the highest reproducible results. mRNA and miRNA profiles were integrated to identify novel regulatory circuits.

Results: Robust miRNA markers for clear cell and mucinous histotypes were found. Specifically, the clear cell histotype is characterized by a five-fold (log scale) higher expression of miR-30a and miR-30a*, whereas mucinous histotype has five-fold (log scale) higher levels of miR-192/194. Furthermore, a mucinous-specific regulatory loop involving miR-192/194 cluster and a differential regulation of E2F3 in clear cell histotype were identified.

Conclusions: Our findings showed that stage I EOC histotypes have their own characteristic miRNA expression and specific regulatory circuits. Clin Cancer Res; 19(15); 4114–23. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Biomarker Discovery in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Integrating Gene Expression Profiling, Meta-analysis, and Tissue Microarray Validation
Authors: Botling Johan , Edlund Karolina , Lohr Miriam , Hellwig Birte , Holmberg Lars , Lambe Mats , Berglund Anders , Ekman Simon , Bergqvist Michael , Pontén Fredrik , König André , Fernandes Oswaldo , Karlsson Mats , Helenius Gisela , Karlsson Christina , Rahnenführer Jörg , Hengstler Jan G , Micke Patrick
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Global gene expression profiling has been widely used in lung cancer research to identify clinically relevant molecular subtypes as well as to predict prognosis and therapy response. So far, the value of these multigene signatures in clinical practice is unclear, and the biologic importance of individual genes is difficult to assess, as the published signatures virtually do not overlap.

Experimental Design: Here, we describe a novel single institute cohort, including 196 non–small lung cancers (NSCLC) with clinical information and long-term follow-up. Gene expression array data were used as a training set to screen for single genes with prognostic impact. The top 450 probe sets identified using a univariate Cox regression model (significance level P < 0.01) were tested in a meta-analysis including five publicly available independent lung cancer cohorts (n = 860).

Results: The meta-analysis revealed 14 genes that were significantly associated with survival (P < 0.001) with a false discovery rate <1%. The prognostic impact of one of these genes, the cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1), was confirmed by use of immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays from 2 independent NSCLC cohorts, altogether including 617 NSCLC samples. Low CADM1 protein expression was significantly associated with shorter survival, with particular influence in the adenocarcinoma patient subgroup.

Conclusions: Using a novel NSCLC cohort together with a meta-analysis validation approach, we have identified a set of single genes with independent prognostic impact. One of these genes, CADM1, was further established as an immunohistochemical marker with a potential application in clinical diagnostics. Clin Cancer Res; 19(1); 194–204. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Endoglin (CD105) Contributes to Platinum Resistance and Is A Target for Tumor-Specific Therapy in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ziebarth Angela J. , Nowsheen Somaira , Steg Adam D. , Shah Monjri M. , Katre Ashwini A. , Dobbin Zachary C. , Han Hee-Dong , Lopez-Berestein Gabriel , Sood Anil K. , Conner Michael , Yang Eddy S. , Landen Charles N.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Endoglin (CD105) is a membranous protein overexpressed in tumor-associated endothelial cells, chemoresistant populations of ovarian cancer cells, and potentially stem cells. Our objective was to evaluate the effects and mechanisms of targeting endoglin in ovarian cancer.

Experimental Design: Global and membranous endoglin expression was evaluated in multiple ovarian cancer lines. In vitro, the effects of siRNA-mediated endoglin knockdown with and without chemotherapy were evaluated by MTT assay, cell-cycle analysis, alkaline comet assay, γ-H2AX foci formation, and quantitative PCR. In an orthotopic mouse model, endoglin was targeted with chitosan-encapsulated siRNA with and without carboplatin.

Results: Endoglin expression was surprisingly predominantly cytoplasmic, with a small population of surface-positive cells. Endoglin inhibition decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, induced double-stranded DNA damage, and increased cisplatin sensitivity. Targeting endoglin downregulates expression of numerous DNA repair genes, including BARD1, H2AFX, NBN, NTHL1, and SIRT1. BARD1 was also associated with platinum resistance, and was induced by platinum exposure. In vivo, antiendoglin treatment decreased tumor weight in both ES2 and HeyA8MDR models when compared with control (35%–41% reduction, P < 0.05). Endoglin inhibition with carboplatin was associated with even greater inhibitory effect when compared with control (58%–62% reduction, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Endoglin downregulation promotes apoptosis, induces significant DNA damage through modulation of numerous DNA repair genes, and improves platinum sensitivity both in vivo and in vitro. Antiendoglin therapy would allow dual treatment of both tumor angiogenesis and a subset of aggressive tumor cells expressing endoglin and is being actively pursued as therapy in ovarian cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(1); 170–82. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Phase I Trial of a Glypican-3–Derived Peptide Vaccine for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Immunologic Evidence and Potential for Improving Overall Survival
Authors: Sawada Yu , Yoshikawa Toshiaki , Nobuoka Daisuke , Shirakawa Hirofumi , Kuronuma Toshimitsu , Motomura Yutaka , Mizuno Shoichi , Ishii Hiroshi , Nakachi Kohei , Konishi Masaru , Nakagohri Toshio , Takahashi Shinichiro , Gotohda Naoto , Takayama Tadatoshi , Yamao Kenji , Uesaka Katsuhiko , Furuse Junji , Kinoshita Taira , Nakatsura Tetsuya
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The carcinoembryonic antigen glypican-3 (GPC3) is an ideal target of anticancer immunotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this nonrandomized, open-label, phase I clinical trial, we analyzed the safety and efficacy of GPC3 peptide vaccination in patients with advanced HCC.

Experimental Design: Thirty-three patients with advanced HCC underwent GPC3 peptide vaccination (intradermal injections on days 1, 15, and 29 with dose escalation). The primary endpoint was the safety of GPC3 peptide vaccination. The secondary endpoints were immune response, as measured by IFN-γ ELISPOT assay, and the clinical outcomes tumor response, time to tumor progression, and overall survival (OS).

Results: GPC3 vaccination was well-tolerated. One patient showed a partial response, and 19 patients showed stable disease 2 months after initiation of treatment. Four of the 19 patients with stable disease had tumor necrosis or regression that did not meet the criteria for a partial response. Levels of the tumor markers α-fetoprotein and/or des-γ-carboxy prothrombin temporarily decreased in nine patients. The GPC3 peptide vaccine induced a GPC3-specific CTL response in 30 patients. Furthermore, GPC3-specific CTL frequency after vaccination correlated with OS. OS was significantly longer in patients with high GPC3-specific CTL frequencies (N = 15) than in those with low frequencies (N = 18; P = 0.033).

Conclusions: GPC3-derived peptide vaccination was well-tolerated, and measurable immune responses and antitumor efficacy were noted. This is the first study to show that peptide-specific CTL frequency can be a predictive marker of OS in patients with HCC receiving peptide vaccination. Clin Cancer Res; 18(13); 3686–96. ©2012 AACR.