bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Matrix Metalloproteinases Contribute Distinct Roles in Neuroendocrine Prostate Carcinogenesis, Metastasis, and Angiogenesis Progression
Authors: Littlepage Laurie E. , Sternlicht Mark D. , Rougier Nathalie , Phillips Joanna , Gallo Eugenio , Yu Ying , Williams Kurt , Brenot Audrey , Gordon Jeffrey I. , Werb Zena
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Prostate cancer is the leading form of cancer in men. Prostate tumors often contain neuroendocrine differentiation, which correlates with androgen-independent progression and poor prognosis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), a family of enzymes that remodel the microenvironment, are associated with tumorigenesis and metastasis. To evaluate MMPs during metastatic prostatic neuroendocrine cancer development, we used transgenic mice expressing SV40 large T antigen in their prostatic neuroendocrine cells, under the control of transcriptional regulatory elements from the mouse cryptdin-2 gene (CR2-TAg). These mice have a stereotypical pattern of tumorigenesis and metastasis. MMP-2, MMP-7, and MMP-9 activities increased concurrently with the transition to invasive metastatic carcinoma, but they were expressed in different prostatic cell types: stromal, luminal epithelium, and macrophages, respectively. CR2-TAg mice treated with AG3340/Prinomastat, an MMP inhibitor that blocks activity of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13, and MMP-14, had reduced tumor burden. CR2-TAg animals were crossed to mice homozygous for null alleles of MMP-2, MMP-7, or MMP-9 genes. At 24 weeks CR2-TAg; MMP-2−/− mice showed reduced tumor burden, prolonged survival, decreased lung metastasis, and decreased blood vessel density, whereas deficiencies in MMP-7 or MMP-9 did not influence tumor growth or survival. Mice deficient for MMP-7 had reduced endothelial area coverage and decreased vessel size, and mice lacking MMP-9 had increased numbers of invasive foci and increased perivascular invasion, as well as decreased tumor blood vessel size. Together, these results suggest distinct contributions by MMPs to the progression of aggressive prostate tumor and to helping tumors cleverly find alternative routes to malignant progression. Cancer Res; 70(6); 2224–34
Data from miR-99 Family of MicroRNAs Suppresses the Expression of Prostate-Specific Antigen and Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Sun Dandan , Lee Yong Sun , Malhotra Ankit , Kim Hak Kyun , Matecic Mirela , Evans Clive , Jensen Roderick V. , Moskaluk Christopher A. , Dutta Anindya
Published: March 2024

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) have been globally profiled in cancers but there tends to be poor agreement between studies including in the same cancers. In addition, few putative miRNA targets have been validated. To overcome the lack of reproducibility, we profiled miRNAs by next generation sequencing and locked nucleic acid miRNA microarrays and verified concordant changes by quantitative RT-PCR. Notably, miR-125b and the miR-99 family members miR-99a, -99b, and -100 were downregulated in all assays in advanced prostate cancer cell lines relative to the parental cell lines from which they were derived. All four miRNAs were also downregulated in human prostate tumor tissue compared with normal prostate. Transfection of miR-99a, -99b, or -100 inhibited the growth of prostate cancer cells and decreased the expression of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), suggesting potential roles as tumor suppressors in this setting. To identify targets of these miRNAs, we combined computational prediction of potential targets with experimental validation by microarray and polyribosomal loading analysis. Three direct targets of the miR-99 family that were validated in this manner were the chromatin-remodeling factors SMARCA5 and SMARCD1 and the growth regulatory kinase mTOR. We determined that PSA is posttranscriptionally regulated by the miR-99 family members, at least partially, by repression of SMARCA5. Together, our findings suggest key functions and targets of miR-99 family members in prostate cancer suppression and prognosis. Cancer Res; 71(4); 1313–24. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1 Signaling Promotes Mobilization of Macrophage Lineage Cells from Bone Marrow and Stimulates Solid Tumor Growth
Authors: Muramatsu Masashi , Yamamoto Seiji , Osawa Tsuyoshi , Shibuya Masabumi
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors, including Flt-1 and Flk-1, are involved in angiogenesis under physiologic and pathologic conditions. Recently, Flt-1–expressing cells were reported to contribute to the intracranial growth of glioma cells. However, the role of Flt-1 signaling in solid tumor growth in s.c. tissue has not been elucidated. To investigate how Flt-1 signaling is involved in the proliferation of solid tumors, we implanted tumor cells into wild-type (Wt) and Flt-1 tyrosine kinase (TK)–deficient (Flt-1 TK−/−) mice. Growth of HSML and B16 but not Lewis lung carcinoma cell in s.c. tissue was significantly decreased in Flt-1 TK−/− mice. Angiogenesis in HSML and B16 tumors was remarkably reduced in Flt-1 TK−/− mice. Moreover, the infiltration of macrophage lineage cells into HSML and B16 tumors was clearly suppressed in Flt-1 TK−/− mice. Pericyte marker+ cells were also reduced in Flt-1 TK−/− mice. However, in the border area of tumor, angiogenesis and the infiltration of macrophage lineage cell were basically similar between Wt and Flt-1 TK−/− mice. In bone marrow (BM) transplantation experiments, tumor angiogenesis, infiltration of macrophage lineage cells, and tumor growth were significantly suppressed in Wt/Flt-1 TK−/− mice implanted with Flt-1 TK−/− BM cells compared with those implanted with Wt BM cells. We conclude that Flt-1 signaling is involved in the function of BM-derived cell, such as the migration of macrophages into cancerous tissues, and significantly contributes to angiogenesis and tumor progression. Cancer Res; 70(20); 8211–21. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Tumor-Suppressive Functions of Leucine Zipper Transcription Factor–Like 1
Authors: Wei Qun , Zhou Wen , Wang Weining , Gao Boning , Wang Linbo , Cao Jiang , Liu Zhi-Ping
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Human leucine zipper transcription factor–like 1 (LZTFL1) is a novel gene with unknown biological functions. It is located in the chromosome region 3p21.3, a hotspot for tumor suppressor genes. To understand the biological functions of LZTFL1, we surveyed the expression level of LZTFL1 in tumor and normal samples in tissue microarrays and a clinical archive of 84 gastric cancer specimens using immunohistochemistry. We found that LZTFL1 is expressed highly in the epithelial cells of normal tissues and is significantly downregulated in the corresponding tumor samples. The expression level of LZTFL1 correlated significantly with the survival outcomes of the patients and had significant inverse correlation with tumor metastasis. Overexpression of LZTFL1 in tumor cells inhibited anchorage-independent cell growth and cell migration in vitro and repressed tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, we show that LZTFL1 expression is upregulated on epithelial cell differentiation and is graded along the crypt-villus axis of the intestine, with weakest expression level in the proliferative zone of the crypt and highest expression level at the apex of the differentiation zone in the villus. Expression of LZTFL1 overlaps with that of E-cadherin at the plasma membrane. Our results indicate that LZTFL1 is a tumor suppressor and that loss of LZTFL1 expression has significant clinical outcomes. LZTFL1 expression may serve as an independent prognostic marker for survival outcome of gastric cancer patients. We propose that LZTFL1 may inhibit tumorigenesis by stabilizing E-cadherin–mediated adherens junction formation and promoting epithelial cell differentiation. Cancer Res; 70(7); 2942–50
Data from In vivo Imaging of Inflammation- and Tumor-Induced Lymph Node Lymphangiogenesis by Immuno–Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Mumprecht Viviane , Honer Michael , Vigl Benjamin , Proulx Steven T. , Trachsel Eveline , Kaspar Manuela , Banziger-Tobler Nadja E. , Schibli Roger , Neri Dario , Detmar Michael
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Metastasis to regional lymph nodes (LN) is a prognostic indicator for cancer progression. There is a great demand for sensitive and noninvasive methods to detect metastasis to LNs. Whereas conventional in vivo imaging approaches have focused on the detection of cancer cells, lymphangiogenesis within tumor-draining LNs might be the earliest sign of metastasis. In mouse models of LN lymphangiogenesis, we found that systemically injected antibodies to lymphatic epitopes accumulated in the lymphatic vasculature in tissues and LNs. Using a 124I-labeled antibody against the lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor-1 (LYVE-1), we imaged, for the first time, inflammation- and tumor-draining LNs with expanded lymphatic networks in vivo by positron emission tomography (PET). Anti-LYVE-1 immuno-PET enabled visualization of lymphatic vessel expansion in LNs bearing metastases that were not detected by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose-PET, which is clinically applied to detect cancer metastases. Immuno-PET with lymphatic-specific antibodies may open up new avenues for the early detection of metastasis, and the images obtained might be used as biomarkers for the progression of diseases associated with lymphangiogenesis. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8842–51. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Combining Betulinic Acid and Mithramycin A Effectively Suppresses Pancreatic Cancer by Inhibiting Proliferation, Invasion, and Angiogenesis
Authors: Gao Yong , Jia Zhiliang , Kong Xiangyu , Li Qiang , Chang David Z. , Wei Daoyan , Le Xiangdong , Suyun Huang , Huang Shengdong , Wang Liwei , Xie Keping
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Both betulinic acid (BA) and mithramycin A (MIT) exhibit potent antitumor activity through distinct mechanisms of Sp1 inhibition. However, it is unknown whether a combination of these two compounds results in a synergistic inhibitory effect on pancreatic cancer growth and/or has a therapeutic advantage over gemcitabine. In xenograft mouse models of human pancreatic cancer, treatment with either BA or MIT alone showed dose-dependent antitumor activity but led to systemic side effects as measured by overall weight loss. Treatment with a nontoxic dose of either compound alone had only marginal antitumor effects. Importantly, combination treatment with nontoxic doses of BA and MIT produced synergistic antitumor activity, including inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. The treatment combination also produced less discernible side effects than therapeutic doses of gemcitabine. Moreover, combined treatment of BA and MIT resulted in drastic inhibition of Sp1 recruitment onto Sp1 and VEGF promoters, leading to transcriptional inhibition of both Sp1 and VEGF and downregulation of Sp1 and VEGF protein expression. Ectopic overexpression of Sp1 rendered tumor cells resistant to BA, MIT, and the combination of the two. Overall, our findings argue that Sp1 is an important target of BA and MIT and that their combination can produce an enhanced therapeutic response in human pancreatic cancer. Cancer Res; 71(15); 5182–93. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Detection of Elevated Plasma Levels of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Before Breast Cancer Diagnosis among Hormone Therapy Users
Authors: Pitteri Sharon J. , Amon Lynn M. , Busald Buson Tina , Zhang Yuzheng , Johnson Melissa M. , Chin Alice , Kennedy Jacob , Wong Chee-Hong , Zhang Qing , Wang Hong , Lampe Paul D. , Prentice Ross L. , McIntosh Martin W. , Hanash Samir M. , Li Christopher I.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Applying advanced proteomic technologies to prospectively collected specimens from large studies is one means of identifying preclinical changes in plasma proteins that are potentially relevant to the early detection of diseases such as breast cancer. We conducted 14 independent quantitative proteomics experiments comparing pooled plasma samples collected from 420 estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer patients ≤17 months before their diagnosis and matched controls. Based on the more than 3.4 million tandem mass spectra collected in the discovery set, 503 proteins were quantified, of which 57 differentiated cases from controls with a P value of <0.1. Seven of these proteins, for which quantitative ELISA assays were available, were assessed in an independent validation set. Of these candidates, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was validated as a predictor of breast cancer risk in an independent set of preclinical plasma samples for women overall [odds ratio (OR), 1.44; P = 0.0008] and particularly for current users of estrogen plus progestin (E + P) menopausal hormone therapy (OR, 2.49; P = 0.0001). Among current E + P users, the EGFR sensitivity for breast cancer risk was 31% with 90% specificity. Whereas the sensitivity and specificity of EGFR are insufficient for a clinically useful early detection biomarker, this study suggests that proteins that are elevated preclinically in women who go on to develop breast cancer can be discovered and validated using current proteomic technologies. Further studies are warranted to examine the role of EGFR and to discover and validate other proteins that could potentially be used for early detection of breast cancer. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8598–606. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Talin1 Promotes Tumor Invasion and Metastasis via Focal Adhesion Signaling and Anoikis Resistance
Authors: Sakamoto Shinichi , McCann Richard O. , Dhir Rajiv , Kyprianou Natasha
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Talin1 is a focal adhesion complex protein that regulates integrin interactions with ECM. This study investigated the significance of talin1 in prostate cancer progression to metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Talin1 overexpression enhanced prostate cancer cell adhesion, migration, and invasion by activating survival signals and conferring resistance to anoikis. ShRNA-mediated talin1 loss led to a significant suppression of prostate cancer cell migration and transendothelial invasion in vitro and a significant inhibition of prostate cancer metastasis in vivo. Talin1-regulated cell survival signals via phosphorylation of focal adhesion complex proteins, such as focal adhesion kinase and Src, and downstream activation of AKT. Targeting AKT activation led to a significant reduction of talin1-mediated prostate cancer cell invasion. Furthermore, talin1 immunoreactivity directly correlated with prostate tumor progression to metastasis in the transgenic adenocarcinoma mouse prostate mouse model. Talin1 profiling in human prostate specimens revealed a significantly higher expression of cytoplasmic talin1 in metastatic tissue compared with primary prostate tumors (P < 0.0001). These findings suggest (a) a therapeutic significance of disrupting talin1 signaling/focal adhesion interactions in targeting metastatic prostate cancer and (b) a potential value for talin1 as a marker of tumor progression to metastasis. Cancer Res; 70(5); 1885–95
Data from Evidence of Limited Contributions for Intratumoral Steroidogenesis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hofland Johannes , van Weerden Wytske M. , Dits Natasja F.J. , Steenbergen Jacobie , van Leenders Geert J.L.H. , Jenster Guido , Schröder Fritz H. , de Jong Frank H.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Androgen-deprivation therapy for prostate cancer (PC) eventually leads to castration-resistant PC (CRPC). Intratumoral androgen production might contribute to tumor progression despite suppressed serum androgen concentrations. In the present study, we investigated whether PC or CRPC tissue may be capable of intratumoral androgen synthesis. Steroidogenic enzyme mRNAs were quantified in hormonally manipulated human PC cell lines and xenografts as well as in human samples of normal prostate, locally confined and advanced PC, local nonmetastatic CRPC, and lymph node metastases. Overall, the majority of samples showed low or absent mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes required for de novo steroid synthesis. Simultaneous but low expression of the enzymes CYP17A1 and HSD3B1, essential for the synthesis of androgens from pregnenolone, could be detected in 19 of 88 patient samples. Of 19 CRPC tissues examined, only 5 samples expressed both enzymes. Enzymes that convert androstenedione to testosterone (AKR1C3) and testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT; SRD5A1) were abundantly expressed. AKR1C3 expression was negatively regulated by androgens in the experimental models and was increased in CRPC samples. Expression of SRD5A1 was upregulated in locally advanced cancer, CRPC, and lymph node metastases. We concluded that intratumoral steroid biosynthesis contributes less than circulating adrenal androgens, implying that blocking androgen production and its intraprostatic conversion into DHT, such as via CYP17A1 inhibition, may represent favorable therapeutic options in patients with CRPC. Cancer Res; 70(3); 1256–64
Data from Gprc5a Deletion Enhances the Transformed Phenotype in Normal and Malignant Lung Epithelial Cells by Eliciting Persistent Stat3 Signaling Induced by Autocrine Leukemia Inhibitory Factor
Authors: Chen Yulong , Deng Jiong , Fujimoto Junya , Kadara Humam , Men Taoyan , Lotan Dafna , Lotan Reuben
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (Stat3) is activated by cytokines and growth factors in lung cancers and regulates expression of genes implicated in cell growth, survival, and transformation. Previously, we found that mice with a deletion of the G protein–coupled receptor, family C, group 5, member a (Gprc5a) gene develop lung tumors, indicating that Gprc5a is a tumor suppressor. Herein, we show that epithelial cells from Gprc5a knockout mouse lung (Gprc5a−/− cells) survive better in vitro in medium deprived of exogenous growth factors and form more colonies in semisolid medium than their counterparts from wild-type mice (Gprc5a+/+ cells). Stat3 tyrosine 705 phosphorylation and expression of several Stat3-regulated antiapoptotic genes were higher in Gprc5a−/− than in Gprc5a+/+ cells. Both cell types secreted leukemia inhibitory factor (Lif); however, whereas Stat3 activation was persistent in Gprc5a−/− cells, it was transient in Gprc5a+/+ cells. Lung adenocarcinoma cells isolated from Gprc5a−/− mice also exhibited autocrine Lif-mediated Stat3 activation. The level of Socs3, the endogenous Stat3 inhibitory protein, was higher in Gprc5a+/+ than in Gprc5a−/− cells, and expression of the tumor suppressor stabilized Socs3. Inhibition of Stat3 signaling in Gprc5a−/− normal and cancer cells by the Janus-activated kinase 2 inhibitor AG490 or by a dominant negative Stat3(Y705F) increased starvation-induced apoptosis and inhibited colony formation. These results show that persistent Stat3 activation is important for the survival and transformation of Gprc5a−/− lung cells and suggest that the tumor suppressive effects of Gprc5a are mediated, at least in part, by inhibition of Stat3 signaling through Socs3 stabilization. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8917–26. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Y-Box Binding Protein-1 Induces the Expression of CD44 and CD49f Leading to Enhanced Self-Renewal, Mammosphere Growth, and Drug Resistance
Authors: To Karen , Fotovati Abbas , Reipas Kristen M. , Law Jennifer H. , Hu Kaiji , Wang Jing , Astanehe Arezoo , Davies Alastair H. , Lee Lawrence , Stratford Anna L. , Raouf Afshin , Johnson Pauline , Berquin Isabelle M. , Royer Hans-Dieter , Eaves Connie J. , Dunn Sandra E.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1) is an oncogenic transcription/translation factor expressed in >40% of breast cancers, where it is associated with poor prognosis, disease recurrence, and drug resistance. We questioned whether this may be linked to the ability of YB-1 to induce the expression of genes linked to cancer stem cells such as CD44 and CD49f. Herein, we report that YB-1 binds the CD44 and CD49f promoters to transcriptionally upregulate their expressions. The introduction of wild-type (WT) YB-1 or activated P-YB-1S102 stimulated the production of CD44 and CD49f in MDA-MB-231 and SUM 149 breast cancer cell lines. YB-1–transfected cells also bound to the CD44 ligand hyaluronan more than the control cells. Similarly, YB-1 was induced in immortalized breast epithelial cells and upregulated CD44. Conversely, silencing YB-1 decreased CD44 expression as well as reporter activity in SUM 149 cells. In mice, expression of YB-1 in the mammary gland induces CD44 and CD49f with associated hyperplasia. Further, activated mutant YB-1S102D enhances self-renewal, primary and secondary mammosphere growth, and soft-agar colony growth, which were reversible via loss of CD44 or CD49f. We next addressed the consequence of this system on therapeutic responsiveness. Here, we show that paclitaxel induces P-YB-1S102 expression, nuclear localization of activated YB-1, and CD44 expression. The overexpression of WT YB-1 promotes mammosphere growth in the presence of paclitaxel. Importantly, targeting YB-1 sensitized the CD44High/CD24Low cells to paclitaxel. In conclusion, YB-1 promotes cancer cell growth and drug resistance through its induction of CD44 and CD49f. Cancer Res; 70(7); 2840–51
Data from A Therapeutic Anti–VEGF Antibody with Increased Potency Independent of Pharmacokinetic Half-life
Authors: Yeung Yik Andy , Wu Xiumin , Reyes Arthur E. , Vernes Jean-Michel , Lien Samantha , Lowe John , Maia Mauricio , Forrest William F. , Meng Y. Gloria , Damico Lisa A. , Ferrara Napoleone , Lowman Henry B.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Bevacizumab [Avastin; anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibody] is an antiangiogenic IgG approved for treating patients with certain types of colon, breast, and lung cancer. In these indications, bevacizumab is administered every 2 to 3 weeks, prompting us to study ways to reduce the frequency of administration. Increasing affinity to neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) may extend the pharmacokinetic half-life of an antibody, but the quantitative effect of FcRn affinity on clearance has not been clearly elucidated. To gain further insight into this relationship, we engineered a series of anti-VEGF antibody variants with minimal amino acid substitutions and showed a range of half-life improvements in primates. These results suggest that, if proven clinically safe and effective, a modified version of bevacizumab could potentially provide clinical benefit to patients on long-term anti-VEGF therapy through less-frequent dosing and improved compliance with drug therapy. Moreover, despite having half-life similar to that of wild-type in mice due to the species-specific FcRn binding effects, the variant T307Q/N434A exhibited superior in vivo potency in slowing the growth of certain human tumor lines in mouse xenograft models. These results further suggest that FcRn variants may achieve increased potency through unidentified mechanisms in addition to increased systemic exposure. Cancer Res; 70(8); 3269–77. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Direct and Differential Suppression of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Subsets by Sunitinib Is Compartmentally Constrained
Authors: Ko Jennifer S. , Rayman Patricia , Ireland Joanna , Swaidani Shadi , Li Geqiang , Bunting Kevin D. , Rini Brian , Finke James H. , Cohen Peter A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The antiangiogenic drug sunitinib is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor with significant, yet not curative, therapeutic effects in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Sunitinib is also an immunomodulator, potently reversing myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) accumulation and T-cell inhibition in the blood even of nonresponder RCC patients. We observed that sunitinib similarly prevented MDSC accumulation and restored normal T-cell function to the spleens of tumor-bearing mice, independent of the capacity of sunitinib to inhibit tumor progression (RENCA>CT26>4T1). Both monocytic and neutrophilic splenic MDSC were highly repressible by sunitinib. In contrast, MDSC within the microenvironment of 4T1 tumors or human RCC tumors proved highly resistant to sunitinib and ambient T-cell function remained suppressed. Proteomic analyses comparing tumor to peripheral compartments showed that granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) predicted sunitinib resistance and recombinant GM-CSF conferred sunitinib resistance to MDSC in vivo and in vitro. MDSC conditioning with GM-CSF uniquely inhibited signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT3) and promoted STAT5 activation. STAT5ab(null/null) MDSC were rendered sensitive to sunitinib in the presence of GM-CSF in vitro. We conclude that compartment-dependent GM-CSF exposure in resistant tumors may account for the regionalized effect of sunitinib upon host MDSC modulation and hypothesize that ancillary strategies to decrease such regionalized escape will enhance the potency of sunitinib as an immunomodulator and a cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 70(9); 3526–36. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Estrogen-Related Receptor Gamma Promotes Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition and Suppresses Breast Tumor Growth
Authors: Tiraby Claire , Hazen Bethany C. , Gantner Marin L. , Kralli Anastasia
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Estrogen-related receptors (ERR), ERR alpha (ERRα) and ERR gamma (ERRγ), are orphan nuclear receptors implicated in breast cancer that function similarly in the regulation of oxidative metabolism genes. Paradoxically, in clinical studies, high levels of ERRα are associated with poor outcomes whereas high levels of ERRγ are associated with a favorable course. Recent studies suggest that ERRα may indeed promote breast tumor growth. The roles of ERRγ in breast cancer progression and how ERRα and ERRγ may differentially affect cancer growth are unclear. In mammary carcinoma cells that do not express endogenous ERRγ, we found that ectopic expression of ERRγ enhanced oxidative metabolism in vitro and inhibited the growth of tumor xenografts in vivo. In contrast, ectopic expression of the ERRα coactivator PGC-1α enhanced oxidative metabolism but did not affect tumor growth. Notably, ERRγ activated expression of a genetic program characteristic of mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET). This program was apparent by changes in cellular morphology, upregulation of epithelial cell markers, downregulation of mesenchymal markers, and decreased cellular invasiveness. We determined that this program was also associated with upregulation of E-cadherin, which is activated directly by ERRγ. In contrast, PGC-1α activated only a subset of genes characteristic of the MET program and, unlike ERRγ, did not upregulate E-cadherin. In conclusion, these results show that ERRγ induces E-cadherin, promotes MET, and suppresses breast cancer growth. Our findings suggest that ERRγ agonists may have applications in the treatment of breast cancer. Cancer Res; 71(7); 2518–28. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Activator RHEB Is Frequently Overexpressed in Human Carcinomas and Is Critical and Sufficient for Skin Epithelial Carcinogenesis
Authors: Lu Zhi Hong , Shvartsman Mark B. , Lee Andrew Y. , Shao Jenny M. , Murray Mollianne M. , Kladney Raleigh D. , Fan Dong , Krajewski Stan , Chiang Gary G. , Mills Gordon B. , Arbeit Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Small GTPase Ras homologue enriched in brain (RHEB) binds and activates the key metabolic regulator mTORC1, which has an important role in cancer cells, but the role of RHEB in cancer pathogenesis has not been shown. By performing a meta-analysis of published cancer cytogenetic and transcriptome databases, we defined a gain of chromosome 7q36.1-q36.3 containing the RHEB locus, an overexpression of RHEB mRNA in several different carcinoma histotypes, and an association between RHEB upregulation and poor prognosis in breast and head and neck cancers. To model gain of function in epithelial malignancy, we targeted Rheb expression to murine basal keratinocytes of transgenic mice at levels similar to those that occur in human squamous cancer cell lines. Juvenile transgenic epidermis displayed constitutive mTORC1 pathway activation, elevated cyclin D1 protein, and diffuse skin hyperplasia. Skin tumors subsequently developed with concomitant stromal angio-inflammatory foci, evidencing induction of an epidermal hypoxia-inducible factor-1 transcriptional program, and paracrine feed-forward activation of the interleukin-6–signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway. Rheb-induced tumor persistence and neoplastic molecular alterations were mTORC1 dependent. Rheb markedly sensitized transgenic epidermis to squamous carcinoma induction following a single dose of Ras-activating carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene. Our findings offer direct evidence that RHEB facilitates multistage carcinogenesis through induction of multiple oncogenic mechanisms, perhaps contributing to the poor prognosis of patients with cancers overexpressing RHEB. Cancer Res; 70(8); 3287–98. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Activation of the Integrin Effector Kinase Focal Adhesion Kinase in Cancer Cells Is Regulated by Crosstalk between Protein Kinase Cα and the PDZ Adapter Protein mda-9/Syntenin
Authors: Hwangbo Cheol , Kim Jaekyung , Lee Jung Joon , Lee Jeong-Hyung
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Aberrant adhesion signaling pathways in cancer cells underlie their deadly invasive capabilities. The adhesion-related PDZ adapter protein mda-9/syntenin is a positive regulator of cancer cell progression in breast cancer, melanoma, and other human cancers. In this study, we report that mda-9/syntenin mediates adhesion-mediated activation of protein kinase Cα (PKCα) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) by fibronectin (FN) in human breast cancer and melanoma cells. FN rapidly stimulated the expression of mda-9/syntenin and the activation of PKCα prior to activation of FAK. Inhibiting PKCα suppressed basal or FN-induced expression of mda-9/syntenin, as well as cell migration and invasion toward FN stimulated by mda-9/syntenin. Several lines of evidence suggested that activation of PKCα and expression of mda-9/syntenin were interdependent. First, mda-9/syntenin inhibition suppressed basal or FN-induced phosphorylation of PKCα at Thr638/641, whereas PKCα inhibition suppressed basal or FN-induced expression of mda-9/syntenin. Second, inhibiting either mda-9/syntenin or PKCα suppressed FN-induced formation of integrin-β1/FAK/c-Src signaling complexes. Third, inhibiting either mda-9/syntenin or PKCα suppressed FN-induced phosphorylation of FAK Tyr397 and c-Src Tyr416 and the induction of downstream effector signals to p38 and mitogen-activated protein kinase, Cdc42, and NF-κB. In summary, our findings offer evidence that mda-9/syntenin acts as a molecular adaptor linking PKCα and FAK activation in a pathway of FN adhesion by human breast cancer and melanoma cells. Cancer Res; 70(4); 1645–55
Data from miR-181a and miR-630 Regulate Cisplatin-Induced Cancer Cell Death
Authors: Galluzzi Lorenzo , Morselli Eugenia , Vitale Ilio , Kepp Oliver , Senovilla Laura , Criollo Alfredo , Servant Nicolas , Paccard Caroline , Hupé Philippe , Robert Thomas , Ripoche Hugues , Lazar Vladimir , Harel-Bellan Annick , Dessen Philippe , Barillot Emmanuel , Kroemer Guido
Published: March 2024

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are noncoding RNAs that regulate multiple cellular processes, including proliferation and apoptosis. We used microarray technology to identify miRNAs that were upregulated by non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells in response to cisplatin (CDDP). The corresponding synthetic miRNA precursors (pre-miRNAs) per se were not lethal when transfected into A549 cells yet affected cell death induction by CDDP, C2-ceramide, cadmium, etoposide, and mitoxantrone in an inducer-specific fashion. Whereas synthetic miRNA inhibitors (anti-miRNAs) targeting miR-181a and miR-630 failed to modulate the response of A549 to CDDP, pre-miR-181a and pre-miR-630 enhanced and reduced CDDP-triggered cell death, respectively. Pre-miR-181a and pre-miR-630 consistently modulated mitochondrial/postmitochondrial steps of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, including Bax oligomerization, mitochondrial transmembrane potential dissipation, and the proteolytic maturation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. In addition, pre-miR-630 blocked early manifestations of the DNA damage response, including the phosphorylation of the ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase and of two ATM substrates, histone H2AX and p53. Pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of p53 corroborated the hypothesis that pre-miR-630 (but not pre-miR-181a) blocks the upstream signaling pathways that are ignited by DNA damage and converge on p53 activation. Pre-miR-630 arrested A549 cells in the G0-G1 phase of the cell cycle, correlating with increased levels of the cell cycle inhibitor p27Kip1 as well as with reduced proliferation rates and resulting in greatly diminished sensitivity of A549 cells to the late S-G2-M cell cycle arrest mediated by CDDP. Altogether, these results identify miR-181a and miR-630 as novel modulators of the CDDP response in NSCLC. Cancer Res; 70(5); 1793–803
Data from Forkhead Box F1 Regulates Tumor-Promoting Properties of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Lung Cancer
Authors: Saito Roy-Akira , Micke Patrick , Paulsson Janna , Augsten Martin , Peña Cristina , Jönsson Per , Botling Johan , Edlund Karolina , Johansson Leif , Carlsson Peter , Jirström Karin , Miyazono Kohei , Östman Arne
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) attract increasing attention as potential cancer drug targets due to their ability to stimulate, for example, tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms causing the tumor-promoting properties of CAFs remain poorly understood. Forkhead box F1 (FoxF1) is a mesenchymal target of hedgehog signaling, known to regulate mesenchymal-epithelial interactions during lung development. Studies with FoxF1 gain- and loss-of-function fibroblasts revealed that FoxF1 regulates the contractility of fibroblasts, their production of hepatocyte growth factor and fibroblast growth factor-2, and their stimulation of lung cancer cell migration. FoxF1 status of fibroblasts was also shown to control the ability of fibroblasts to stimulate xenografted tumor growth. FoxF1 was expressed in CAFs of human lung cancer and associated with activation of hedgehog signaling. These observations suggest that hedgehog-dependent FoxF1 is a clinically relevant lung CAF-inducing factor, and support experimentally the general concept that CAF properties can be induced by activation of developmentally important transcription factors. Cancer Res; 70(7); 2644–54
Data from PDGFR Signaling Blockade in Marrow Stroma Impairs Lung Cancer Bone Metastasis
Authors: Catena Raúl , Luis-Ravelo Diego , Antón Iker , Zandueta Carolina , Salazar-Colocho Pablo , Larzábal Leyre , Calvo Alfonso , Lecanda Fernando
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Bone microenvironment and cell–cell interactions are crucial for the initiation and development of metastasis. By means of a pharmacologic approach, using the multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib, we tested the relevance of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) axis in the bone marrow (BM) stromal compartment for the initiation and development of lung cancer metastasis to bone. PDGFRβ was found to be the main tyrosine kinase target of sunitinib expressed in BM stromal ST-2 and MC3T3-E1 preosteoblastic cells. In contrast, no expression of sunitinib-targeted receptors was found in A549M1 and low levels in H460M5 lung cancer metastatic cells. Incubation of ST-2 and human BM endothelial cells with sunitinib led to potent cell growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, sunitinib induced a robust proapoptotic effect in vivo on BM stromal PDGFRβ+ cells and produced extensive disruption of tissue architecture and vessel leakage in the BM cavity. Pretreatment of ST-2 cells with sunitinib also hindered heterotypic adhesion to lung cancer cell lines. These effects were correlated with changes in cell–cell and cell–matrix molecules in both stromal and tumor cells. Pretreatment of mice with sunitinib before intracardiac inoculation of A549M1 or H460M5 cells caused marked inhibition of tumor cells homing to bone, whereas no effect was found when tumor cells were pretreated before inoculation. Treatment with sunitinib dramatically increased overall survival and prevented tumor colonization but not bone lesions, whereas combination with zoledronic acid resulted in marked reduction of osteolytic lesions and osseous tumor burden. Thus, disruption of the PDGFR axis in the BM stroma alters heterotypic tumor–stromal and tumor–matrix interactions, thereby preventing efficient engagement required for bone homing and osseous colonization. These results support the notion that concomitant targeting of the tumor and stromal compartment is a more effective approach for blocking bone metastasis. Cancer Res; 71(1); 164–74. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Upregulation of DLX5 Promotes Ovarian Cancer Cell Proliferation by Enhancing IRS-2-AKT Signaling
Authors: Tan Yinfei , Cheung Mitchell , Pei Jianming , Menges Craig W. , Godwin Andrew K. , Testa Joseph R.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The distal-less homeobox gene (dlx) 5 encodes a transcription factor that controls jaw formation and appendage differentiation during embryonic development. We had previously found that Dlx5 is overexpressed in an Akt2 transgenic model of T-cell lymphoma. To investigate if DLX5 is involved in human cancer, we screened its expression in the NCI 60 cancer cell line panel. DLX5 was frequently upregulated in cell lines derived from several tumor types, including ovarian cancer. We next validated its upregulation in primary ovarian cancer specimens. Stable knockdown of DLX5 by lentivirus-mediated transduction of short hairpin RNA (shRNA) resulted in reduced proliferation of ovarian cancer cells due to inhibition of cell cycle progression in connection with the downregulation of cyclins A, B1, D1, D2, and E, and decreased phosphorylation of AKT. Cell proliferation resumed following introduction of a DLX5 cDNA harboring wobbled mutations at the shRNA-targeting sites. Cell proliferation was also rescued by transduction of a constitutively active form of AKT. Intriguingly, downregulation of IRS-2 and MET contributed to the suppression of AKT signaling. Moreover, DLX5 was found to directly bind to the IRS-2 promoter and augmented its transcription. Knockdown of DLX5 in xenografts of human ovarian cancer cells resulted in markedly diminished tumor size. In addition, DLX5 was found to cooperate with HRAS in the transformation of human ovarian surface epithelial cells. Together, these data suggest that DLX5 plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of some ovarian cancers. Cancer Res; 70(22); 9197–206. ©2010 AACR.
Data from An ErbB3 Antibody, MM-121, Is Active in Cancers with Ligand-Dependent Activation
Authors: Schoeberl Birgit , Faber Anthony C. , Li Danan , Liang Mei-Chih , Crosby Katherine , Onsum Matthew , Burenkova Olga , Pace Emily , Walton Zandra , Nie Lin , Fulgham Aaron , Song Youngchul , Nielsen Ulrik B. , Engelman Jeffrey A. , Wong Kwok-Kin
Published: March 2024

Abstract
ErbB3 is a critical activator of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR; ErbB1), ErbB2 [human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)], and [hepatocyte growth factor receptor (MET)] addicted cancers, and reactivation of ErbB3 is a prominent method for cancers to become resistant to ErbB inhibitors. In this study, we evaluated the in vivo efficacy of a therapeutic anti-ErbB3 antibody, MM-121. We found that MM-121 effectively blocked ligand-dependent activation of ErbB3 induced by either EGFR, HER2, or MET. Assessment of several cancer cell lines revealed that MM-121 reduced basal ErbB3 phosphorylation most effectively in cancers possessing ligand-dependent activation of ErbB3. In those cancers, MM-121 treatment led to decreased ErbB3 phosphorylation and, in some instances, decreased ErbB3 expression. The efficacy of single-agent MM-121 was also examined in xenograft models. A machine learning algorithm found that MM-121 was most effective against xenografts with evidence of ligand-dependent activation of ErbB3. We subsequently investigated whether MM-121 treatment could abrogate resistance to anti-EGFR therapies by preventing reactivation of ErbB3. We observed that an EGFR mutant lung cancer cell line (HCC827), made resistant to gefitinib by exogenous heregulin, was resensitized by MM-121. In addition, we found that a de novo lung cancer mouse model induced by EGFR T790M-L858R rapidly became resistant to cetuximab. Resistance was associated with an increase in heregulin expression and ErbB3 activation. However, concomitant cetuximab treatment with MM-121 blocked reactivation of ErbB3 and resulted in a sustained and durable response. Thus, these results suggest that targeting ErbB3 with MM-121 can be an effective therapeutic strategy for cancers with ligand-dependent activation of ErbB3. Cancer Res; 70(6); 2485–94
Data from Downregulation of Notch Pathway by a γ-Secretase Inhibitor Attenuates AKT/Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling and Glucose Uptake in an ERBB2 Transgenic Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Efferson Clay L. , Winkelmann Christopher T. , Ware Christopher , Sullivan Timothy , Giampaoli Saverio , Tammam Jennifer , Patel Shailendra , Mesiti Giuseppe , Reilly John F. , Gibson Raymond E. , Buser Carolyn , Yeatman Timothy , Coppola Domenico , Winter Christopher , Clark Edwin A. , Draetta Giulio F. , Strack Peter R. , Majumder Pradip K.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
ERBB2/neu and Notch signaling are known to be deregulated in many human cancers. However, pathway cross-talk and dependencies are not well understood. In this study, we use an ERBB2-transgenic mouse model of breast cancer (neuT) to show that Notch signaling plays a critical role in tumor maintenance. Inhibition of the Notch pathway with a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) decreased both the Notch and the mammalian target of rapamycin/AKT pathways. Antitumor activity resulting from GSI treatment was associated with decreased cell proliferation as measured by Ki67 and decreased expression of glucose transporter Glut1. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging showed that the functional consequences of decreased Glut1 translated to reduced glucose uptake and correlated with antitumor effects as measured by micro-computed tomography imaging. The decrease of Glut1 in neuT tumors was also observed in several human breast cancer cell lines following GSI treatment. We provide evidence that ∼27% of ERBB2-positive human breast cancer specimens display high expression of HES1, phospho-S6RP, and GLUT1. Together, these results suggest that pathways downstream of Notch signaling are, at least in part, responsible for promoting tumor growth in neuT and also active in both neuT and a subset of human breast cancers. These findings suggest that GSI may provide therapeutic benefit to a subset of ERBB2-positive breast cancers and that [18F]FDG-PET imaging may be useful in monitoring clinical response. Cancer Res; 70(6); 2476–84
Data from Tumor-Initiated Inflammation Overrides Protective Adaptive Immunity in an Induced Melanoma Model in Mice
Authors: Soudja Saïdi M. , Wehbe Maria , Mas Amandine , Chasson Lionel , de Tenbossche Céline Powis , Huijbers Ivo , Van den Eynde Benoît , Schmitt-Verhulst Anne-Marie
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We studied the effect of the immune system on two differentially aggressive melanomas developing in mice on conditional deletion of the INK4A/ARF tumor suppressor gene, with concomitant expression of oncogene H-RasG12V and a natural cancer-germline tumor antigen (TA). “Slow progressor” melanomas contained no activated T lymphocytes (TL). In contrast, “aggressive” melanomas were infiltrated by activated TLs lacking effector molecules and expressing high levels of PD-1, indicating an exhausted phenotype. Aggressive melanomas were also infiltrated by immature myeloid cells (IMC). Infiltration was associated with local inflammation and systemic Th2/Th17-oriented chronic inflammation that seemed to impair further activation of TLs, as tumor-specific T cells adoptively transferred into mice bearing aggressive melanomas were poorly activated and failed to infiltrate the melanoma. This immunosuppression also led to the incapacity of these mice to reject inoculated TA-positive tumors, in contrast to slow-progressing melanoma-bearing mice, which were responsive. To test the role of adaptive immunity in tumor progression, we induced melanomas in immunodeficient RagKO compound mice. These mice developed aggressive but not slow-progressing melanomas at a higher frequency and with a shorter latency than immunocompetent mice. Immunodeficient mice also developed abnormal inflammation and infiltration of IMCs in a manner similar to immunocompetent mice, indicating that this phenotype was not dependent on adaptive immunity. Therefore, tumor-intrinsic factors distinguishing the two melanoma types control the initiation of inflammation, which was independent of adaptive immunity. The latter delayed development of aggressive melanomas but was overridden by inflammation. Cancer Res; 70(9); 3515–25. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Molecular Mechanism of MART-1+/A*0201+ Human Melanoma Resistance to Specific CTL-Killing Despite Functional Tumor–CTL Interaction
Authors: Jazirehi Ali R. , Baritaki Stavroula , Koya Richard C. , Bonavida Benjamin , Economou James S.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Durable responses in metastatic melanoma patients remain generally difficult to achieve. Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with ex vivo engineered lymphocytes expressing high affinity T-cell receptors (TCRα/β) for the melanoma antigen MART-127–35/HLA-A*0201 [recognized by F5 cytotoxic T lymphocytes (F5 CTL)] has been found to benefit certain patients. However, many other patients are inherently unresponsive and/or relapse for unknown reasons. To analyze the basis for the acquired resistance and strategies to reverse it, we established F5 CTL–resistant (R) human melanoma clones from relatively sensitive parental lines under selective F5 CTL pressure. Surface MART-127–35/HLA-A*0201 in these clones was unaltered and F5 CTLs recognized and interacted with them similar to the parental lines. Nevertheless, the R clones were resistant to F5 CTL killing, exhibited hyperactivation of the NF-κB survival pathway, and overexpression of the antiapoptotic genes B cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 related gene (long alternatively spliced variant of Bcl-x gene; Bcl-xL), and myeloid cell differentiation 1 (Mcl-1). Sensitivity to F5 CTL-killing could be increased by pharmacological inhibition of the NF-κB pathway, Bcl-2 family members, or the proteasome, the latter of which reduced NF-κB activity and diminished antiapoptotic gene expression. Specific gene-silencing (by siRNA) confirmed the protective role of antiapoptotic factors by reversing R clone resistance. Together, our findings suggest that long-term immunotherapy may impose a selection for the development of resistant cells that are unresponsive to highly avid and specific melanoma-reactive CTLs, despite maintaining expression of functional peptide:MHC complexes, due to activation of antiapoptotic signaling pathways. Though unresponsive to CTL, our results argue that resistant cells can be resensitized to immunotherapy with coadministration of targeted inhibitors to antiapoptotic survival pathways. Cancer Res; 71(4); 1406–17. ©2010 AACR.