bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Resistance to the Antibody–Drug Conjugate T-DM1 Is Based in a Reduction in Lysosomal Proteolytic Activity
Authors: Ríos-Luci Carla , García-Alonso Sara , Díaz-Rodríguez Elena , Nadal-Serrano Mercedes , Arribas Joaquín , Ocaña Alberto , Pandiella Atanasio
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Trastuzumab-emtansine (T-DM1) is an antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) that was approved recently to treat HER2+ breast cancers. Despite its impressive clinical efficacy in many patients, intrinsic and acquired resistance to T-DM1 has emerged as a challenge. To identify mechanisms of T-DM1 resistance, we isolated several resistant HER2+ clones exhibiting stable drug refractoriness in vitro and in vivo. Genomic comparisons showed substantial differences among three of the isolated clones, indicating several potential mechanisms of resistance to T-DM1. However, we observed no differences in HER2 levels and signaling among the resistant models and parental HER2+ cells. Bioinformatics studies suggested that intracellular trafficking of T-DM1 could underlie resistance to T-DM1, and systematic analysis of the path followed by T-DM1 showed that the early steps in the internalization of the drug were unaltered. However, in some of the resistant clones, T-DM1 accumulated in lysosomes. In these clones, lysosomal pH was increased and the proteolytic activity of these organelles was deranged. These results were confirmed in T-DM1–resistant cells from patient-derived HER2+ samples. We postulate that resistance to T-DM1 occurs through multiple mechanisms, one of which is impaired lysosomal proteolytic activity. Because other ADC may use the same internalization-degradation pathway to deliver active payloads, strategies aimed at restoring lysosomal functionality might overcome resistance to ADC-based therapies and improve their effectiveness. Cancer Res; 77(17); 4639–51. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Glycerol-3-phosphate Acyltransferase 1 Promotes Tumor Cell Migration and Poor Survival in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Marchan Rosemarie , Büttner Bettina , Lambert Jörg , Edlund Karolina , Glaeser Iris , Blaszkewicz Meinolf , Leonhardt Gregor , Marienhoff Lisa , Kaszta Darius , Anft Moritz , Watzl Carsten , Madjar Katrin , Grinberg Marianna , Rempel Eugen , Hergenröder Roland , Selinski Silvia , Rahnenführer Jörg , Lesjak Michaela S. , Stewart Joanna D. , Cadenas Cristina , Hengstler Jan G.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Glycerophosphodiesterase EDI3 (GPCPD1; GDE5; GDPD6) has been suggested to promote cell migration, adhesion, and spreading, but its mechanisms of action remain uncertain. In this study, we targeted the glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase GPAM along with choline kinase-α (CHKA), the enzymes that catabolize the products of EDI3 to determine which downstream pathway is relevant for migration. Our results clearly showed that GPAM influenced cell migration via the signaling lipid lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), linking it with GPAM to cell migration. Analysis of GPAM expression in different cancer types revealed a significant association between high GPAM expression and reduced overall survival in ovarian cancer. Silencing GPAM in ovarian cancer cells decreased cell migration and reduced the growth of tumor xenografts. In contrast to these observations, manipulating CHKA did not influence cell migration in the same set of cell lines. Overall, our findings show how GPAM influences intracellular LPA levels to promote cell migration and tumor growth. Cancer Res; 77(17); 4589–601. ©2017 AACR.
Data from SOCS1 Gene Therapy Improves Radiosensitivity and Enhances Irradiation-Induced DNA Damage in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sugase Takahito , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Serada Satoshi , Fujimoto Minoru , Hiramatsu Kosuke , Ohkawara Tomoharu , Tanaka Koji , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Makino Tomoki , Kurokawa Yukinori , Yamasaki Makoto , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Kishimoto Tadamitsu , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro , Naka Tetsuji
Published: March 2023

Abstract
STAT3 has been implicated recently in radioresistance in cancer. In this study, we investigated the association between STAT3 and radioresistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Strong expression of activated phospho-STAT3 (p-STAT3) was observed in 16/22 ESCC patients with preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT), compared with 9 of 24 patients with surgery alone, where the prognosis of those with CRT was poor. Expression of p-STAT3 and the antiapoptotic proteins Mcl-1 and survivin was strongly induced in ESCC cells by irradiation. Ectopic STAT3 expression increased radioresistance, whereas expression of the STAT3 negative regulator SOCS1 via an adenoviral vector improved radioresponse. Inhibiting the STAT3–Mcl-1 axis by SOCS1 enhanced DNA damage after irradition and induced apoptosis. Combining SOCS1 with radiotherapy enhanced antitumor responses in a murine xenograft model compared with the individual therapies. Tumor repopulation occurred transiently after treatment by irradiation but not the combination SOCS1/radiotherapy. Tumors subjected to this combination expressed high levels of γH2AX and low levels of Ki-67, which was maintained after cessation of treatment. Overall, we demonstrated that inhibiting the STAT3–Mcl-1 signaling axis by ectopic SOCS1 improved radiosensitivity by inducing apoptosis and enhancing DNA damage after radiotherapy, offering a mechanistic rationale for a new ESCC treatment. Cancer Res; 77(24); 6975–86. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Early Effector T Lymphocytes Coexpress Multiple Inhibitory Receptors in Primary Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Tassi Elena , Grazia Giulia , Vegetti Claudia , Bersani Ilaria , Bertolini Giulia , Molla Alessandra , Baldassari Paola , Andriani Francesca , Roz Luca , Sozzi Gabriella , Pastorino Ugo , Mortarini Roberta , Anichini Andrea
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Clinical efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 targeting relies upon the reactivation of tumor-specific but functionally impaired PD-1+ T cells present before therapy. Thus, analyzing early-stage primary tumors may reveal the presence of T cells that are not yet functionally impaired. In this study, we report that activated (HLA-DR+) T cells with an effector memory (TEM) profile are enriched in such lesions. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes coexpressed PD-1 with the inhibitory receptors TIM-3, CTLA-4, LAG-3, and TIGIT, but also displayed a recently activated, nonexhausted phenotype. We also identified a subset of CD8+PD-1+FOXP3+ T lymphocytes at the earliest phase of functional differentiation after priming, termed “early effector cells” (EEC), which also exhibited an activated nonexhausted phenotype, but was less differentiated and associated with coexpression of multiple inhibitory receptors. In response to autologous tumor, EECs upregulated CD107a, produced IL2 and IFNγ, and were competent for differentiation. The identification of EECs marked by inhibitory receptor expression at tumor sites will enable investigations of early stages of adaptive antitumor immunity, as well as support the rationale for administering immunotherapy in early-stage non–small cell lung cancer. Cancer Res; 77(4); 851–61. ©2016 AACR.
Data from MYC-Regulated Mevalonate Metabolism Maintains Brain Tumor–Initiating Cells
Authors: Wang Xiuxing , Huang Zhi , Wu Qiulian , Prager Briana C. , Mack Stephen C. , Yang Kailin , Kim Leo J.Y. , Gimple Ryan C. , Shi Yu , Lai Sisi , Xie Qi , Miller Tyler E. , Hubert Christopher G. , Song Anne , Dong Zhen , Zhou Wenchao , Fang Xiaoguang , Zhu Zhe , Mahadev Vaidehi , Bao Shideng , Rich Jeremy N.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Metabolic dysregulation drives tumor initiation in a subset of glioblastomas harboring isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutations, but metabolic alterations in glioblastomas with wild-type IDH are poorly understood. MYC promotes metabolic reprogramming in cancer, but targeting MYC has proven notoriously challenging. Here, we link metabolic dysregulation in patient-derived brain tumor–initiating cells (BTIC) to a nexus between MYC and mevalonate signaling, which can be inhibited by statin or 6-fluoromevalonate treatment. BTICs preferentially express mevalonate pathway enzymes, which we find regulated by novel MYC-binding sites, validating an additional transcriptional activation role of MYC in cancer metabolism. Targeting mevalonate activity attenuated RAS-ERK–dependent BTIC growth and self-renewal. In turn, mevalonate created a positive feed-forward loop to activate MYC signaling via induction of miR-33b. Collectively, our results argue that MYC mediates its oncogenic effects in part by altering mevalonate metabolism in glioma cells, suggesting a therapeutic strategy in this setting. Cancer Res; 77(18); 4947–60. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Tumor-Localized Secretion of Soluble PD1 Enhances Oncolytic Virotherapy
Authors: Bartee Mee Y. , Dunlap Katherine M. , Bartee Eric
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Oncolytic virotherapy represents an attractive option for the treatment of a variety of aggressive or refractory tumors. While this therapy is effective at rapidly debulking directly injected tumor masses, achieving complete eradication of established disease has proven difficult. One method to overcome this challenge is to use oncolytic viruses to induce secondary antitumor immune responses. Unfortunately, while the initial induction of these immune responses is typically robust, their subsequent efficacy is often inhibited through a variety of immunoregulatory mechanisms, including the PD1/PDL1 T-cell checkpoint pathway. To overcome this inhibition, we generated a novel recombinant myxoma virus (vPD1), which inhibits the PD1/PDL1 pathway specifically within the tumor microenvironment by secreting a soluble form of PD1 from infected cells. This virus both induced and maintained antitumor CD8+ T-cell responses within directly treated tumors and proved safer and more effective than combination therapy using unmodified myxoma and systemic αPD1 antibodies. Localized vPD1 treatment combined with systemic elimination of regulatory T cells had potent synergistic effects against metastatic disease that was already established in secondary solid organs. These results demonstrate that tumor-localized inhibition of the PD1/PDL1 pathway can significantly improve outcomes during oncolytic virotherapy. Furthermore, they establish a feasible path to translate these findings against clinically relevant disease. Cancer Res; 77(11); 2952–63. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Systematic Drug Screening Identifies Tractable Targeted Combination Therapies in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Wali Vikram B. , Langdon Casey G. , Held Matthew A. , Platt James T. , Patwardhan Gauri A. , Safonov Anton , Aktas Bilge , Pusztai Lajos , Stern David F. , Hatzis Christos
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains an aggressive disease without effective targeted therapies. In this study, we addressed this challenge by testing 128 FDA-approved or investigational drugs as either single agents or in 768 pairwise drug combinations in TNBC cell lines to identify synergistic combinations tractable to clinical translation. Medium-throughput results were scrutinized and extensively analyzed for sensitivity patterns, synergy, anticancer activity, and were validated in low-throughput experiments. Principal component analysis revealed that a fraction of all upregulated or downregulated genes of a particular targeted pathway could partly explain cell sensitivity toward agents targeting that pathway. Combination therapies deemed immediately tractable to translation included ABT-263/crizotinib, ABT-263/paclitaxel, paclitaxel/JQ1, ABT-263/XL-184, and paclitaxel/nutlin-3, all of which exhibited synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic activity in multiple TNBC backgrounds. Mechanistic investigations of the ABT-263/crizotinib combination offering a potentially rapid path to clinic demonstrated RTK blockade, inhibition of mitogenic signaling, and proapoptotic signal induction in basal and mesenchymal stem–like TNBC. Our findings provide preclinical proof of concept for several combination treatments of TNBC, which offer near-term prospects for clinical translation. Cancer Res; 77(2); 566–78. ©2016 AACR.
Data from mda-7/IL-24 Mediates Cancer Cell–Specific Death via Regulation of miR-221 and the Beclin-1 Axis
Authors: Pradhan Anjan K. , Talukdar Sarmistha , Bhoopathi Praveen , Shen Xue-Ning , Emdad Luni , Das Swadesh K. , Sarkar Devanand , Fisher Paul B.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Melanoma differentiation-associated gene-7/IL-24 (mda-7/IL-24) displays broad-spectrum anticancer activity in vitro, in vivo in preclinical animal models, and in a phase I/II clinical trial in patients with advanced cancers without harming normal cells or tissues. Here we demonstrate that mda-7/IL-24 regulates a specific subset of miRNAs, including cancer-associated miR-221. Either ectopic expression of mda-7/IL-24 or treatment with recombinant His-MDA-7 protein resulted in downregulation of miR-221 and upregulation of p27 and PUMA in a panel of cancer cells, culminating in cell death. Mda-7/IL-24–induced cancer cell death was dependent on reactive oxygen species induction and was rescued by overexpression of miR-221. Beclin-1 was identified as a new transcriptional target of miR-221, and mda-7/IL-24 regulated autophagy through a miR-221/beclin-1 feedback loop. In a human breast cancer xenograft model, miR-221–overexpressing MDA-MB-231 clones were more aggressive and resistant to mda-7/IL-24–mediated cell death than parental clones. This is the first demonstration that mda-7/IL-24 directly regulates miRNA expression in cancer cells and highlights the novelty of the mda-7/IL-24–miR-221–beclin-1 loop in mediating cancer cell–specific death. Cancer Res; 77(4); 949–59. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Sensitivity to BUB1B Inhibition Defines an Alternative Classification of Glioblastoma
Authors: Lee Eunjee , Pain Margaret , Wang Huaien , Herman Jacob A. , Toledo Chad M. , DeLuca Jennifer G. , Yong Raymund L. , Paddison Patrick , Zhu Jun
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains a mainly incurable disease in desperate need of more effective treatments. In this study, we develop evidence that the mitotic spindle checkpoint molecule BUB1B may offer a predictive marker for aggressiveness and effective drug response. A subset of GBM tumor isolates requires BUB1B to suppress lethal kinetochore–microtubule attachment defects. Using gene expression data from GBM stem-like cells, astrocytes, and neural progenitor cells that are sensitive or resistant to BUB1B inhibition, we created a computational framework to predict sensitivity to BUB1B inhibition. Applying this framework to tumor expression data from patients, we stratified tumors into BUB1B-sensitive (BUB1BS) or BUB1B-resistant (BUB1BR) subtypes. Through this effort, we found that BUB1BS patients have a significantly worse prognosis regardless of tumor development subtype (i.e., classical, mesenchymal, neural, proneural). Functional genomic profiling of BUB1BR versus BUB1BS isolates revealed a differential reliance of genes enriched in the BUB1BS classifier, including those involved in mitotic cell cycle, microtubule organization, and chromosome segregation. By comparing drug sensitivity profiles, we predicted BUB1BS cells to be more sensitive to type I and II topoisomerase inhibitors, Raf inhibitors, and other drugs, and experimentally validated some of these predictions. Taken together, the results show that our BUB1BR/S classification of GBM tumors can predict clinical course and sensitivity to drug treatment. Cancer Res; 77(20); 5518–29. ©2017 AACR.
Data from NR4A3 Suppresses Lymphomagenesis through Induction of Proapoptotic Genes
Authors: Deutsch Alexander J.A. , Rinner Beate , Pichler Martin , Prochazka Katharina , Pansy Katrin , Bischof Marco , Fechter Karoline , Hatzl Stefan , Feichtinger Julia , Wenzl Kerstin , Frisch Marie-Therese , Stiegelbauer Verena , Prokesch Andreas , Krogsdam Anne , Sill Heinz , Thallinger Gerhard G. , Greinix Hildegard T. , Wang Chenguang , Beham-Schmid Christine , Neumeister Peter
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Nuclear orphan receptor NR4A1 exerts an essential tumor suppressor function in aggressive lymphomas. In this study, we investigated the hypothesized contribution of the related NR4A family member NR4A3 to lymphomagenesis. In aggressive lymphoma patients, low expression of NR4A3 was associated with poor survival. Ectopic expression or pharmacological activation of NR4A3 in lymphoma cell lines led to a significantly higher proportion of apoptotic cells. In a mouse NSG xenograft model of lymphoma (stably transduced SuDHL4 cells), NR4A3 expression abrogated tumor growth, compared with vector control and uninduced cells that formed massive tumors. Transcript analysis of four different aggressive lymphoma cell lines overexpressing either NR4A3 or NR4A1 revealed that apoptosis was driven similarly by induction of BAK, Puma, BIK, BIM, BID, and Trail. Overall, our results showed that NR4A3 possesses robust tumor suppressor functions of similar impact to NR4A1 in aggressive lymphomas. Cancer Res; 77(9); 2375–86. ©2017 AACR.
Data from TBK1 Provides Context-Selective Support of the Activated AKT/mTOR Pathway in Lung Cancer
Authors: Cooper Jonathan M. , Ou Yi-Hung , McMillan Elizabeth A. , Vaden Rachel M. , Zaman Aubhishek , Bodemann Brian O. , Makkar Gurbani , Posner Bruce A. , White Michael A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Emerging observations link dysregulation of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) to developmental disorders, inflammatory disease, and cancer. Biochemical mechanisms accounting for direct participation of TBK1 in host defense signaling have been well described. However, the molecular underpinnings of the selective participation of TBK1 in a myriad of additional cell biological systems in normal and pathophysiologic contexts remain poorly understood. To elucidate the context-selective role of TBK1 in cancer cell survival, we employed a combination of broad-scale chemogenomic and interactome discovery strategies to generate data-driven mechanism-of-action hypotheses. This approach uncovered evidence that TBK1 supports AKT/mTORC1 pathway activation and function through direct modulation of multiple pathway components acting both upstream and downstream of the mTOR kinase itself. Furthermore, we identified distinct molecular features in which mesenchymal, Ras-mutant lung cancer is acutely dependent on TBK1-mediated support of AKT/mTORC1 pathway activation for survival. Cancer Res; 77(18); 5077–94. ©2017 AACR.
Data from ARF Confers a Context-Dependent Response to Chemotherapy in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Owczarek Tomasz B. , Kobayashi Takashi , Ramirez Ricardo , Rong Lijie , Puzio-Kuter Anna M. , Iyer Gopa , Teo Min Yuen , Sánchez-Vega Francisco , Wang Jingqiang , Schultz Nikolaus , Zheng Tian , Solit David B. , Al-Ahmadie Hikmat A. , Abate-Shen Cory
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) generally responds poorly to treatment and tends to exhibit significant mortality. Here we show that expression of the tumor suppressor p14ARF (ARF) is upregulated in aggressive subtypes of MIBC. Accumulation of ARF in the nucleolus is associated with poor outcome and attenuated response to chemotherapy. In both genetically engineered mouse models and murine xenograft models of human MIBC, we demonstrate that tumors expressing ARF failed to respond to treatment with the platinum-based chemotherapy agent cisplatin. Resistance was mediated in part by the integrin-binding protein ITGB3BP (CENPR) and reflected ARF-dependent impairment of protein translation, which was exaggerated by drug treatment. Overall, our results highlight a context-dependent role for ARF in modulating the drug response of bladder cancer. Cancer Res; 77(4); 1035–46. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Correlates of Prenatal and Early-Life Tobacco Smoke Exposure and Frequency of Common Gene Deletions in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: de Smith Adam J. , Kaur Maneet , Gonseth Semira , Endicott Alyson , Selvin Steve , Zhang Luoping , Roy Ritu , Shao Xiaorong , Hansen Helen M. , Kang Alice Y. , Walsh Kyle M. , Dahl Gary V. , McKean-Cowdin Roberta , Metayer Catherine , Wiemels Joseph L.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Tobacco smoke exposure has been associated with risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Understanding the relationship between tobacco exposures and specific mutations may yield etiologic insights. We carried out a case-only analysis to explore whether prenatal and early-life tobacco smoke exposure influences the formation of leukemogenic genomic deletions. Somatic copy number of 8 genes frequently deleted in ALL (CDKN2A, ETV6, IKZF1, PAX5, RB1, BTG1, PAR1 region, and EBF1) was assessed in 559 pretreatment tumor samples from the California Childhood Leukemia Study. Parent and child's passive tobacco exposure was assessed using interview-assisted questionnaires as well as DNA methylation in aryl-hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AHRR), a sentinel epigenetic biomarker of exposure to maternal smoking during pregnancy. Multivariable Poisson regressions were used to test the association between the smoking exposures and total number of deletions. Deletion burden varied by subtype, with a lower frequency in high-hyperdiploid and higher frequency in ETV6–RUNX1 fusion ALL. The total number of deletions per case was positively associated with tobacco smoke exposure, in particular for maternal ever-smoking (ratio of means, RM, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.08–1.59), maternal smoking during pregnancy (RM, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.12–1.94), and during breastfeeding (RM, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.48–3.02). The magnitude of association with maternal ever-smoking was stronger in male children compared with females (Pinteraction = 0.04). The total number of deletions was also associated with DNA methylation at the AHRR epigenetic biomarker (RM, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.02–1.69). Our results suggest that prenatal and early-life tobacco smoke exposure increase the frequency of somatic deletions in children who develop ALL. Cancer Res; 77(7); 1674–83. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Mathematical Modeling of Tumor–Tumor Distant Interactions Supports a Systemic Control of Tumor Growth
Authors: Benzekry Sebastien , Lamont Clare , Barbolosi Dominique , Hlatky Lynn , Hahnfeldt Philip
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Interactions between different tumors within the same organism have major clinical implications, especially in the context of surgery and metastatic disease. Three main explanatory theories (competition, angiogenesis inhibition, and proliferation inhibition) have been proposed, but precise determinants of the phenomenon remain poorly understood. Here, we formalized these theories into mathematical models and performed biological experiments to test them with empirical data. In syngeneic mice bearing two simultaneously implanted tumors, growth of only one of the tumors was significantly suppressed (61% size reduction at day 15, P < 0.05). The competition model had to be rejected, whereas the angiogenesis inhibition and proliferation inhibition models were able to describe the data. Additional models including a theory based on distant cytotoxic log-kill effects were unable to fit the data. The proliferation inhibition model was identifiable and minimal (four parameters), and its descriptive power was validated against the data, including consistency in predictions of single tumor growth when no secondary tumor was present. This theory may also shed new light on single cancer growth insofar as it offers a biologically translatable picture of how local and global action may combine to control local tumor growth and, in particular, the role of tumor-tumor inhibition. This model offers a depiction of concomitant resistance that provides an improved theoretical basis for tumor growth control and may also find utility in therapeutic planning to avoid postsurgery metastatic acceleration. Cancer Res; 77(18); 5183–93. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Modeling Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma Unveils Novel Mechanisms of Metastasis
Authors: Tanaka Miwa , Homme Mizuki , Yamazaki Yukari , Shimizu Rikuka , Takazawa Yutaka , Nakamura Takuro
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a slowly growing, but highly metastatic, sarcoma that affects adolescents and young adults. Its characteristic alveolar structure is constituted by tumor cell nests and an abundant vascular network that is responsible for metastatic activities at the initial stage. Here, we have generated a new ex vivo mouse model for ASPS that well recapitulates associated angiogenic and metastatic phenotypes. In mouse ASPS, the tumor cells frequently showed tumor intravasation, with the intravascular tumor cells presenting as organoid structures covered with hemangiopericytes, which is also observed in human ASPS. High expression of glycoprotein nmb (GPNMB), a transcriptional target of ASPSCR1-TFE3, was observed at the sites of intravasation. ASPS tumor cells also demonstrated enhanced transendothelial migration activity, which was inhibited by silencing of Gpnmb, indicating that GPNMB plays an important role in tumor intravasation, a key step in cancer metastasis. The present model also enabled the evaluation of TFE/MITF family transcription factor function, which demonstrated that ASPSCR1-TFEB possessed definitive albeit less marked oncogenic activity than that of ASPSCR1-TFE3. Collectively, our mouse model provides a tool to understand oncogenic, angiogenic, and metastatic mechanisms of ASPS. It also identifies important motifs within the ASPSCR1-TFE3 fusion protein and provides a platform for developing novel therapeutic strategies for this disorder. Cancer Res; 77(4); 897–907. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Copper Chelation Inhibits BRAFV600E-Driven Melanomagenesis and Counters Resistance to BRAFV600E and MEK1/2 Inhibitors
Authors: Brady Donita C. , Crowe Matthew S. , Greenberg Danielle N. , Counter Christopher M.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
MEK1/2 and BRAFV600E inhibitors are used to treat BRAFV600E-positive melanoma, with other cancers under evaluation. Genetic perturbation of copper import or pharmacologic reduction of copper with the clinical copper chelator TTM inhibits MEK1/2 kinase activity and reduces BRAFV600E-driven tumorigenesis. In this study, we report that TTM inhibited transformed growth of melanoma cell lines resistant to BRAF or MEK1/2 inhibitors and enhanced the antineoplastic activity of these inhibitors. TTM also provided a survival advantage in a genetically engineered mouse model of melanoma, and when accounting for putative overdosing, trended toward an increase in the survival benefit afforded by BRAF inhibition. This effect was phenocopied by genetically inhibiting copper import in tumors, which was linked to a reduction in MAPK signaling. Thus, TTM reduces copper levels and MAPK signaling, thereby inhibiting BRAFV600E-driven melanoma tumor growth. These observations inform and support clinical evaluation of TTM in melanoma. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6240–52. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Recommended Guidelines for Validation, Quality Control, and Reporting of TP53 Variants in Clinical Practice
Authors: Leroy Bernard , Ballinger Mandy L. , Baran-Marszak Fanny , Bond Gareth L. , Braithwaite Antony , Concin Nicole , Donehower Lawrence A. , El-Deiry Wafik S. , Fenaux Pierre , Gaidano Gianluca , Langerød Anita , Hellstrom-Lindberg Eva , Iggo Richard , Lehmann-Che Jacqueline , Mai Phuong L. , Malkin David , Moll Ute M. , Myers Jeffrey N. , Nichols Kim E. , Pospisilova Sarka , Ashton-Prolla Patricia , Rossi Davide , Savage Sharon A. , Strong Louise C. , Tonin Patricia N. , Zeillinger Robert , Zenz Thorsten , Fraumeni Joseph F. , Taschner Peter E.M. , Hainaut Pierre , Soussi Thierry
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Accurate assessment of TP53 gene status in sporadic tumors and in the germline of individuals at high risk of cancer due to Li–Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) has important clinical implications for diagnosis, surveillance, and therapy. Genomic data from more than 20,000 cancer genomes provide a wealth of information on cancer gene alterations and have confirmed TP53 as the most commonly mutated gene in human cancer. Analysis of a database of 70,000 TP53 variants reveals that the two newly discovered exons of the gene, exons 9β and 9γ, generated by alternative splicing, are the targets of inactivating mutation events in breast, liver, and head and neck tumors. Furthermore, germline rearrange-ments in intron 1 of TP53 are associated with LFS and are frequently observed in sporadic osteosarcoma. In this context of constantly growing genomic data, we discuss how screening strategies must be improved when assessing TP53 status in clinical samples. Finally, we discuss how TP53 alterations should be described by using accurate nomenclature to avoid confusion in scientific and clinical reports. Cancer Res; 77(6); 1250–60. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Mouse Models of Pediatric Supratentorial High-grade Glioma Reveal How Cell-of-Origin Influences Tumor Development and Phenotype
Authors: Sreedharan Smitha , Maturi Naga Prathyusha , Xie Yuan , Sundström Anders , Jarvius Malin , Libard Sylwia , Alafuzoff Irina , Weishaupt Holger , Fryknäs Mårten , Larsson Rolf , Swartling Fredrik J. , Uhrbom Lene
Published: March 2023

Abstract
High-grade glioma (HGG) is a group of primary malignant brain tumors with dismal prognosis. Whereas adult HGG has been studied extensively, childhood HGG, a relatively rare disease, is less well-characterized. Here, we present two novel platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-driven mouse models of pediatric supratentorial HGG. Tumors developed from two different cells of origin reminiscent of neural stem cells (NSC) or oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC). Cross-species transcriptomics showed that both models are closely related to human pediatric HGG as compared with adult HGG. Furthermore, an NSC-like cell-of-origin enhanced tumor incidence, malignancy, and the ability of mouse glioma cells (GC) to be cultured under stem cell conditions as compared with an OPC-like cell. Functional analyses of cultured GC from these tumors showed that cells of NSC-like origin were more tumorigenic, had a higher rate of self-renewal and proliferation, and were more sensitive to a panel of cancer drugs compared with GC of a more differentiated origin. These two mouse models relevant to human pediatric supratentorial HGG propose an important role of the cell-of-origin for clinicopathologic features of this disease. Cancer Res; 77(3); 802–12. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Survival Outcomes in Cancer Patients Predicted by a Partial EMT Gene Expression Scoring Metric
Authors: George Jason T. , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Xu Shengnan , Somarelli Jason A. , Levine Herbert
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Metastasis is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality for many cancer patients and remains a major obstacle for effective treatment. In many tissue types, metastasis is fueled by the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)—a dynamic process characterized by phenotypic and morphologic changes concomitant with increased migratory and invasive potential. Recent experimental and theoretical evidence suggests that cells can be stably halted en route to EMT in a hybrid E/M phenotype. Cells in this phenotype tend to move collectively, forming clusters of circulating tumor cells that are key tumor-initiating agents. Here, we developed an inferential model built on the gene expression of multiple cancer subtypes to devise an EMT metric that characterizes the degree to which a given cell line exhibits hybrid E/M features. Our model identified drivers and fine-tuners of epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity and recapitulated the behavior observed in multiple in vitro experiments across cancer types. We also predicted and experimentally validated the hybrid E/M status of certain cancer cell lines, including DU145 and A549. Finally, we demonstrated the relevance of predicted EMT scores to patient survival and observed that the role of the hybrid E/M phenotype in characterizing tumor aggressiveness is tissue and subtype specific. Our algorithm is a promising tool to quantify the EMT spectrum, to investigate the correlation of EMT score with cancer treatment response and survival, and to provide an important metric for systematic clinical risk stratification and treatment. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6415–28. ©2017 AACR.
Data from In Silico Modeling of Immunotherapy and Stroma-Targeting Therapies in Human Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kather Jakob Nikolas , Poleszczuk Jan , Suarez-Carmona Meggy , Krisam Johannes , Charoentong Pornpimol , Valous Nektarios A. , Weis Cleo-Aron , Tavernar Luca , Leiss Florian , Herpel Esther , Klupp Fee , Ulrich Alexis , Schneider Martin , Marx Alexander , Jäger Dirk , Halama Niels
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Despite the fact that the local immunological microenvironment shapes the prognosis of colorectal cancer, immunotherapy has shown no benefit for the vast majority of colorectal cancer patients. A better understanding of the complex immunological interplay within the microenvironment is required. In this study, we utilized wet lab migration experiments and quantitative histological data of human colorectal cancer tissue samples (n = 20) including tumor cells, lymphocytes, stroma, and necrosis to generate a multiagent spatial model. The resulting data accurately reflected a wide range of situations of successful and failed immune surveillance. Validation of simulated tissue outcomes on an independent set of human colorectal cancer specimens (n = 37) revealed the model recapitulated the spatial layout typically found in human tumors. Stroma slowed down tumor growth in a lymphocyte-deprived environment but promoted immune escape in a lymphocyte-enriched environment. A subgroup of tumors with less stroma and high numbers of immune cells showed high rates of tumor control. These findings were validated using data from colorectal cancer patients (n = 261). Low-density stroma and high lymphocyte levels showed increased overall survival (hazard ratio 0.322, P = 0.0219) as compared with high stroma and high lymphocyte levels. To guide immunotherapy in colorectal cancer, simulation of immunotherapy in preestablished tumors showed that a complex landscape with optimal stroma permeabilization and immune cell activation is able to markedly increase therapy response in silico. These results can help guide the rational design of complex therapeutic interventions, which target the colorectal cancer microenvironment. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6442–52. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Dual Roles for Regulatory T-cell Depletion and Costimulatory Signaling in Agonistic GITR Targeting for Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Mahne Ashley E. , Mauze Smita , Joyce-Shaikh Barbara , Xia Jane , Bowman Edward P. , Beebe Amy M. , Cua Daniel J. , Jain Renu
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Agonistic monoclonal antibodies (mAb) targeting the T-cell receptor coregulatory molecule GITR exert potent therapeutic activities in preclinical tumor models. Although anti-GITR mAb are thought to act by depleting and destabilizing the intratumoral T regulatory cell (Treg) population, the precise mechanism of action is obscure. Here, we addressed this issue using a Treg fate-mapping approach, which revealed that Treg loss was primarily due to cell depletion, with minimal evidence of Treg conversion to a non–Foxp3-expressing population. Further characterization of persisting Tregs following anti-GITR mAb treatment showed that a highly activated subpopulation of CD44hiICOShi intratumoral Tregs were preferentially targeted for elimination, with the remaining Tregs exhibiting a less suppressive phenotype. With these changes in the Treg population, intratumoral CD8+ T cells acquired a more functional phenotype characterized by downregulation of the exhaustion markers PD-1 and LAG-3. This reversal of CD8+ T-cell exhaustion was dependent on both agonistic GITR signaling and Treg depletion, as neither mechanism by itself could fully rescue the exhaustion phenotype. Tests of anti-human GITR antibody MK-4166 in a humanized mouse model of cancer mimicked many of the effects of anti-mouse GITR mAb in syngeneic tumor models, decreasing both Treg numbers and immune suppressor phenotype while enhancing effector responsiveness. Overall, our results show how anti-GITR mAb shifts Treg populations to enable immune attack on tumors, with clinical implications for molecular markers to modify emerging treatments. Cancer Res; 77(5); 1108–18. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Cancer Stem Cells Regulate Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts via Activation of Hedgehog Signaling in Mammary Gland Tumors
Authors: Valenti Giovanni , Quinn Hazel M. , Heynen Guus J.J.E. , Lan Linxiang , Holland Jane D. , Vogel Regina , Wulf-Goldenberg Annika , Birchmeier Walter
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Many tumors display intracellular heterogeneity with subsets of cancer stem cells (CSC) that sustain tumor growth, recurrence, and therapy resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) have been shown to support and regulate CSC function. Here, we investigate the interactions between CSCs and CAFs in mammary gland tumors driven by combined activation of Wnt/β-catenin and Hgf/Met signaling in mouse mammary epithelial cells. In this setting, CSCs secrete the Hedgehog ligand SHH, which regulate CAFs via paracrine activation of Hedgehog signaling. CAFs subsequently secrete factors that promote expansion and self-renewal of CSCs. In vivo treatment of tumors with the Hedgehog inhibitor vismodegib reduce CAF and CSC expansion, resulting in an overall delay of tumor formation. Our results identify a novel intracellular signaling module that synergistically regulates CAFs and CSCs. Targeting CAFs with Hedgehog inhibitors may offer a novel therapeutic strategy against breast cancer. Cancer Res; 77(8); 2134–47. ©2017 AACR.
Data from CXCL-8/IL8 Produced by Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphomas Recruits Neutrophils Expressing a Proliferation-Inducing Ligand APRIL
Authors: Manfroi Benoit , McKee Thomas , Mayol Jean Francois , Tabruyn Sebastien , Moret Sebastien , Villiers Christian , Righini Christian , Dyer Martin , Callanan Mary , Schneider Pascal , Tzankov Alexandar , Matthes Thomas , Sturm Nathalie , Huard Bertrand
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating neutrophils have been implicated in malignant development and progression, but mechanisms are ill defined. Neutrophils produce a proliferation-inducing ligand APRIL/TNFSF13, a factor that promotes development of tumors from diverse origins, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). High APRIL expression in DLBCL correlates with reduced patient survival, but the pathway(s) dictating APRIL expression are not known. Here, we show that all blood neutrophils constitutively secrete APRIL, and inflammation-associated stimuli, such as TNF, further upregulate APRIL. In a significant fraction of DLBCL patients, tumor cells constitutively produced the ELC-CXC chemokine CXCL-8 (IL8), enabling them to recruit APRIL-producing blood neutrophils. CXCL-8 production in DLBCL was unrelated to the cell of origin, as APRIL-producing neutrophils infiltrated CXCL-8+ DLBCL from both germinal center (GC) and non-GC subtypes. Rather, CXCL-8 production implied events affecting DNA methylation and acetylation. Overall, our results showed that chemokine-mediated recruitment of neutrophils secreting the tumor-promoting factor APRIL mediates DLBCL progression. Cancer Res; 77(5); 1097–107. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Anti-Folate Receptor-α IgE but not IgG Recruits Macrophages to Attack Tumors via TNFα/MCP-1 Signaling
Authors: Josephs Debra H. , Bax Heather J. , Dodev Tihomir , Georgouli Mirella , Nakamura Mano , Pellizzari Giulia , Saul Louise , Karagiannis Panagiotis , Cheung Anthony , Herraiz Cecilia , Ilieva Kristina M. , Correa Isabel , Fittall Matthew , Crescioli Silvia , Gazinska Patrycja , Woodman Natalie , Mele Silvia , Chiaruttini Giulia , Gilbert Amy E. , Koers Alexander , Bracher Marguerite , Selkirk Christopher , Lentfer Heike , Barton Claire , Lever Elliott , Muirhead Gareth , Tsoka Sophia , Canevari Silvana , Figini Mariangela , Montes Ana , Downes Noel , Dombrowicz David , Corrigan Christopher J. , Beavil Andrew J. , Nestle Frank O. , Jones Paul S. , Gould Hannah J. , Sanz-Moreno Victoria , Blower Philip J. , Spicer James F. , Karagiannis Sophia N.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
IgE antibodies are key mediators of antiparasitic immune responses, but their potential for cancer treatment via antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) has been little studied. Recently, tumor antigen–specific IgEs were reported to restrict cancer cell growth by engaging high-affinity Fc receptors on monocytes and macrophages; however, the underlying therapeutic mechanisms were undefined and in vivo proof of concept was limited. Here, an immunocompetent rat model was designed to recapitulate the human IgE-Fcϵ receptor system for cancer studies. We also generated rat IgE and IgG mAbs specific for the folate receptor (FRα), which is expressed widely on human ovarian tumors, along with a syngeneic rat tumor model expressing human FRα. Compared with IgG, anti-FRα IgE reduced lung metastases. This effect was associated with increased intratumoral infiltration by TNFα+ and CD80+ macrophages plus elevated TNFα and the macrophage chemoattractant MCP-1 in lung bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Increased levels of TNFα and MCP-1 correlated with IgE-mediated tumor cytotoxicity by human monocytes and with longer patient survival in clinical specimens of ovarian cancer. Monocytes responded to IgE but not IgG exposure by upregulating TNFα, which in turn induced MCP-1 production by monocytes and tumor cells to promote a monocyte chemotactic response. Conversely, blocking TNFα receptor signaling abrogated induction of MCP-1, implicating it in the antitumor effects of IgE. Overall, these findings show how antitumor IgE reprograms monocytes and macrophages in the tumor microenvironment, encouraging the clinical use of IgE antibody technology to attack cancer beyond the present exclusive reliance on IgG. Cancer Res; 77(5); 1127–41. ©2017 AACR.
Data from PP2A Inactivation Mediated by PPP2R4 Haploinsufficiency Promotes Cancer Development
Authors: Sents Ward , Meeusen Bob , Kalev Petar , Radaelli Enrico , Sagaert Xavier , Miermans Eline , Haesen Dorien , Lambrecht Caroline , Dewerchin Mieke , Carmeliet Peter , Westermarck Jukka , Sablina Anna , Janssens Veerle
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) complexes counteract many oncogenic kinase pathways. In cancer cells, PP2A function can be compromised by several mechanisms, including sporadic mutations in its scaffolding A and regulatory B subunits or more frequently through overexpression of cellular PP2A inhibitors. Here, we identify a novel genetic mechanism by which PP2A function is recurrently affected in human cancer, involving haploinsufficiency of PPP2R4, a gene encoding the cellular PP2A activator PTPA. Notably, up to 70% of cancer patients showed a heterozygous deletion or missense mutations in PPP2R4. Cancer-associated PTPA mutants exhibited decreased abilities to bind the PP2A-C subunit or activate PP2A and failed to reverse the tumorigenic phenotype induced by PTPA suppression, indicating they function as null alleles. In Ppp2r4 gene-trapped (gt) mice showing residual PTPA expression, total PP2A activity and methylation were reduced, selectively affecting specific PP2A holoenzymes. Both PTPAgt/gt and PTPA+/gt mice showed higher rates of spontaneous tumors, mainly hematologic malignancies and hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas. These tumors exhibited increased c-Myc phosphorylation and increased Wnt or Hedgehog signaling. We observed a significant reduction in lifespan in PTPA+/gt mice compared with wild-type mice. In addition, chemical-induced skin carcinogenesis was accelerated in PTPA+/gt compared with wild-type mice. Our results provide evidence for PPP2R4 as a haploinsufficient tumor suppressor gene, defining a high-penetrance genetic mechanism for PP2A inhibition in human cancer. Cancer Res; 77(24); 6825–37. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Biomarker Dynamics in B-cell Lymphoma: A Longitudinal Prospective Study of Plasma Samples Up to 25 Years before Diagnosis
Authors: Späth Florentin , Wibom Carl , Krop Esmeralda J.M. , Johansson Ann-Sofie , Bergdahl Ingvar A. , Vermeulen Roel , Melin Beatrice
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The B-cell activation markers CXCL13, sCD23, sCD27, and sCD30 are associated with future lymphoma risk. However, a lack of information about the individual dynamics of marker–disease association hampers interpretation. In this study, we identified 170 individuals who had donated two prediagnostic blood samples before B-cell lymphoma diagnosis, along with 170 matched cancer-free controls from the Northern Sweden Health and Disease Study. Lymphoma risk associations were investigated by subtype and marker levels measured at baseline, at the time of the repeated sample, and with the rate of change in the marker level. Notably, we observed strong associations between CXCL13, sCD23, sCD27, and sCD30 and lymphoma risk in blood samples collected 15 to 25 years before diagnosis. B-cell activation marker levels increased among future lymphoma cases over time, while remaining stable among controls. Associations between slope and risk were strongest for indolent lymphoma subtypes. We noted a marked association of sCD23 with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (ORSlope = 28, Ptrend = 7.279 × 10−10). Among aggressive lymphomas, the association between diffuse large B-cell lymphoma risk and slope was restricted to CXCL13. B-cell activation seemed to play a role in B-cell lymphoma development at early stages across different subtypes. Furthermore, B-cell activation presented differential trajectories in future lymphoma patients, mainly driven by indolent subtypes. Our results suggest a utility of these markers in predicting the presence of early occult disease and/or the screening and monitoring of indolent lymphoma in individual patients. Cancer Res; 77(6); 1408–15. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Aspirin Suppresses Growth in PI3K-Mutant Breast Cancer by Activating AMPK and Inhibiting mTORC1 Signaling
Authors: Henry Whitney S. , Laszewski Tyler , Tsang Tiffany , Beca Francisco , Beck Andrew H. , McAllister Sandra S. , Toker Alex
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Despite the high incidence of oncogenic mutations in PIK3CA, the gene encoding the catalytic subunit of PI3K, PI3K inhibitors have yielded little clinical benefit for breast cancer patients. Recent epidemiologic studies have suggested a therapeutic benefit from aspirin intake in cancers harboring oncogenic PIK3CA. Here, we show that mutant PIK3CA-expressing breast cancer cells have greater sensitivity to aspirin-mediated growth suppression than their wild-type counterparts. Aspirin decreased viability and anchorage-independent growth of mutant PIK3CA breast cancer cells independently of its effects on COX-2 and NF-κB. We ascribed the effects of aspirin to AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, mTORC1 inhibition, and autophagy induction. In vivo, oncogenic PIK3CA-driven mouse mammary tumors treated daily with aspirin resulted in decreased tumor growth kinetics, whereas combination therapy of aspirin and a PI3K inhibitor further attenuated tumor growth. Our study supports the evaluation of aspirin and PI3K pathway inhibitors as a combination therapy for targeting breast cancer. Cancer Res; 77(3); 790–801. ©2016 AACR.