bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Inhibition of c-Met Reduces Lymphatic Metastasis in RIP-Tag2 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Sennino Barbara , Ishiguro-Oonuma Toshina , Schriver Brian J. , Christensen James G. , McDonald Donald M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Inhibition of VEGF signaling can promote lymph node metastasis in preclinical models, but the mechanism is not fully understood, and successful methods of prevention have not been found. Signaling of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor c-Met can promote the growth of lymphatics and metastasis of some tumors. We sought to explore the contributions of c-Met signaling to lymph node metastasis after inhibition of VEGF signaling. In particular, we examined whether c-Met is upregulated in lymphatics in or near pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in RIP-Tag2 transgenic mice and whether lymph node metastasis can be reduced by concurrent inhibition of VEGF and c-Met signaling. Inhibition of VEGF signaling by anti-VEGF antibody or sunitinib in mice from the age of 14 to 17 weeks was accompanied by more intratumoral lymphatics, more tumor cells inside lymphatics, and more lymph node metastases. Under these conditions, lymphatic endothelial cells, like tumor cells, had strong immunoreactivity for c-Met and phospho-c-Met. c-Met blockade by the selective inhibitor, PF-04217903, significantly reduced metastasis to local lymph nodes. Together, these results indicate that inhibition of VEGF signaling in RIP-Tag2 mice upregulates c-Met expression in lymphatic endothelial cells, increases the number of intratumoral lymphatics and number of tumor cells within lymphatics, and promotes metastasis to local lymph nodes. Prevention of lymph node metastasis by PF-04217903 in this setting implicates c-Met signaling in tumor cell spread to lymph nodes. Cancer Res; 73(12); 3692–703. ©2013 AACR.
Data from KDM4/JMJD2 Histone Demethylases: Epigenetic Regulators in Cancer Cells
Authors: Berry William L. , Janknecht Ralf
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Lysine methylation is one of the most prominent histone posttranslational modifications that regulate chromatin structure. Changes in histone lysine methylation status have been observed during cancer formation, which is thought to be a consequence of the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases or the opposing demethylases. KDM4/JMJD2 proteins are demethylases that target histone H3 on lysines 9 and 36 and histone H1.4 on lysine 26. This protein family consists of three ∼130-kDa proteins (KDM4A-C) and KDM4D/JMJD2D, which is half the size, lacks the double PHD and Tudor domains that are epigenome readers and present in the other KDM4 proteins, and has a different substrate specificity. Various studies have shown that KDM4A/JMJD2A, KDM4B/JMJD2B, and/or KDM4C/JMJD2C are overexpressed in breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, and other tumors and are required for efficient cancer cell growth. In part, this may be due to their ability to modulate transcription factors such as the androgen and estrogen receptor. Thus, KDM4 proteins present themselves as novel potential drug targets. Accordingly, multiple attempts are under way to develop KDM4 inhibitors, which could complement the existing arsenal of epigenetic drugs that are currently limited to DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases. Cancer Res; 73(10); 2936–42. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Enhanced Effector Responses in Activated CD8+ T Cells Deficient in Diacylglycerol Kinases
Authors: Riese Matthew J. , Wang Liang-Chuan S. , Moon Edmund K. , Joshi Rohan P. , Ranganathan Anjana , June Carl H. , Koretzky Gary A. , Albelda Steven M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Recent clinical trials have shown promise in the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-transduced T cells; however, augmentation of their activity may broaden their clinical use and improve their efficacy. We hypothesized that because CAR action requires proteins essential for T-cell receptor (TCR) signal transduction, deletion of negative regulators of these signaling pathways would enhance CAR signaling and effector T-cell function. We tested CAR activity and function in T cells that lacked one or both isoforms of diacylglycerol kinase (dgk) expressed highly in T cells, dgkα and dgkζ, enzymes that metabolize the second messenger diacylglycerol (DAG) and limit Ras/ERK activation. We found that primary murine T cells transduced with CARs specific for the human tumor antigen mesothelin showed greatly enhanced cytokine production and cytotoxicity when cocultured with a murine mesothelioma line that stably expresses mesothelin. In addition, we found that dgk-deficient CAR-transduced T cells were more effective in limiting the growth of implanted tumors, both concurrent with and after establishment of tumor. Consistent with our studies in mice, pharmacologic inhibition of dgks also augments function of primary human T cells transduced with CARs. These results suggest that deletion of negative regulators of TCR signaling enhances the activity and function of CAR-expressing T cells and identify dgks as potential targets for improving the clinical potential of CARs. Cancer Res; 73(12); 3566–77. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Monofunctional Platinum–DNA Adducts Are Strong Inhibitors of Transcription and Substrates for Nucleotide Excision Repair in Live Mammalian Cells
Authors: Zhu Guangyu , Myint MyatNoeZin , Ang Wee Han , Song Lina , Lippard Stephen J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
To overcome drug resistance and reduce the side effects of cisplatin, a widely used antineoplastic agent, major efforts have been made to develop next generation platinum-based anticancer drugs. Because cisplatin–DNA adducts block RNA polymerase II unless removed by transcription-coupled excision repair, compounds that react similarly but elude repair are desirable. The monofunctional platinum agent pyriplatin displays antitumor activity in mice, a cytotoxicity profile in cell cultures distinct from that of cisplatin, and a unique in vitro transcription inhibition mechanism. In this study, we incorporated pyriplatin globally or site specifically into luciferase reporter vectors to examine its transcription inhibition profiles in live mammalian cells. Monofunctional pyriplatin reacted with plasmid DNA as efficiently as bifunctional cisplatin and inhibited transcription as strongly as cisplatin in various mammalian cells. Using repair-defective nucleotide excision repair (NER)-, mismatch repair-, and single-strand break repair–deficient cells, we show that NER is mainly responsible for removal of pyriplatin–DNA adducts. These findings reveal that the mechanism by which pyriplatin generates its antitumor activity is very similar to that of cisplatin, despite the chemically different nature of their DNA adducts, further supporting a role for monofunctional platinum anticancer agents in human cancer therapy. This information also provides support for the validity of the proposed mechanism of action of cisplatin and provides a rational basis for the design of more potent platinum anticancer drug candidates using a monofunctional DNA-damaging strategy. Cancer Res; 72(3); 790–800. ©2011 AACR.
Data from SENP1 deSUMOylates and Regulates Pin1 Protein Activity and Cellular Function
Authors: Chen Chun-Hau , Chang Che-Chang , Lee Tae Ho , Luo ManLi , Huang Pengyu , Liao Pei-Hsin , Wei Shuo , Li Fu-An , Chen Ruey-Hwa , Zhou Xiao Zhen , Shih Hsiu-Ming , Lu Kun Ping
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The Pin1 prolyl isomerase regulates phosphorylation signaling by controlling protein conformation after phosphorylation, and its upregulation promotes oncogenesis via acting on numerous oncogenic molecules. SUMOylation and deSUMOylation are dynamic mechanisms regulating a spectrum of protein activities. The SUMO proteases (SENP) remove SUMO conjugate from proteins, and their expression is deregulated in cancers. However, nothing is known about the role of SUMOylation in regulating Pin1 function. Here, we show that Pin1 is SUMOylated on Lys6 in the WW domain and on Lys63 in the PPIase domain. Pin1 SUMOylation inhibits its protein activity and oncogenic function. We further identify that SENP1 binds to and deSUMOylates Pin1. Importantly, either overexpression of SENP1 or disruption of Pin1 SUMOylation promotes the ability of Pin1 to induce centrosome amplification and cell transformation. Moreover, SENP1 also increases Pin1 protein stability in cell cultures, and Pin1 levels are positively correlated with SENP1 levels in human breast cancer specimens. These results not only uncover Pin1 SUMOylation on Lys6/63 as a novel mechanism to inhibit its activity and function but also identify a critical role for SENP1-mediated deSUMOylation in promoting Pin1 function during tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 73(13); 3951–62. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Basal but not Luminal Mammary Epithelial Cells Require PI3K/mTOR Signaling for Ras-Driven Overgrowth
Authors: Plichta Kristin A. , Mathers Jessica L. , Gestl Shelley A. , Glick Adam B. , Gunther Edward J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The mammary ducts of humans and mice are comprised of two main mammary epithelial cell (MEC) subtypes: a surrounding layer of basal MECs and an inner layer of luminal MECs. Breast cancer subtypes show divergent clinical behavior that may reflect properties inherent in their MEC compartment of origin. How the response to a cancer-initiating genetic event is shaped by MEC subtype remains largely unexplored. Using the mouse mammary gland, we designed organotypic three-dimensional culture models that permit challenge of discrete MEC compartments with the same oncogenic insult. Mammary organoids were prepared from mice engineered for compartment-restricted coexpression of oncogenic H-RASG12V together with a nuclear fluorescent reporter. Monitoring of H-RASG12V-expressing MECs during extended live cell imaging permitted visualization of Ras-driven phenotypes via video microscopy. Challenging either basal or luminal MECs with H-RASG12V drove MEC proliferation and survival, culminating in aberrant organoid overgrowth. In each compartment, Ras activation triggered modes of collective MEC migration and invasion that contrasted with physiologic modes used during growth factor–initiated branching morphogenesis. Although basal and luminal Ras activation produced similar overgrowth phenotypes, inhibitor studies revealed divergent use of Ras effector pathways. Blocking either the phosphoinositide 3-kinase or the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway completely suppressed Ras-driven invasion and overgrowth of basal MECs, but only modestly attenuated Ras-driven phenotypes in luminal MECs. We show that MEC subtype defines signaling pathway dependencies downstream of Ras. Thus, cells-of-origin may critically determine the drug sensitivity profiles of mammary neoplasia. Cancer Res; 72(22); 5856–66. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Histone Methyltransferase KMT1A Restrains Entry of Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma Cells into a Myogenic Differentiated State
Authors: Lee Min-Hyung , Jothi Mathivanan , Gudkov Andrei V. , Mal Asoke K.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) is an aggressive pediatric muscle cancer, which arrested during the process of skeletal muscle differentiation. In muscle myoblast cells, ectopic expression of the histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methytransferase KMT1A blocks differentiation by repressing a myogenic gene expression program. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that activation of a KMT1A-mediated program of transcriptional repression prevents ARMS cells from differentiating. We investigated whether KMT1A represses the expression of differentiation-associated genes in ARMS cells, thereby blocking muscle differentiation. Our results show that expression of KMT1A is induced in human ARMS cancer cell lines when cultured under differentiation-permissible conditions. shRNA-mediated knockdown of KMT1A decreased anchorage dependent and independent cell proliferation and tumor xenograft growth, increased expression of differentiation-associated genes, and promoted the appearance of a terminally differentiated-like phenotype. Finally, shRNA-directed KMT1A knockdown restored the impaired transcriptional activity of the myogenic regulator MyoD. Together, our results suggested that high levels of KMT1A in ARMS cells under differentiation conditions impairs MyoD function, thereby arresting myogenic differentiation in these tumor cells. Thus, targeting KMT1A may be a novel strategy for the treatment of this disease. Cancer Res; 71(11); 3921–31. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Increased CD8+ T-cell Function following Castration and Immunization Is Countered by Parallel Expansion of Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Tang Shuai , Moore Miranda L. , Grayson Jason M. , Dubey Purnima
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Although androgen ablation therapy is effective in treating primary prostate cancers, a significant number of patients develop incurable castration-resistant disease. Recent studies have suggested a potential synergy between vaccination and androgen ablation, yet the enhanced T-cell function is transient. Using a defined tumor antigen model, UV-8101-RE, we found that concomitant castration significantly increased the frequency and function of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells early after the immunization of wild-type mice. However, at a late time point after immunization, effector function was reduced to the same level as noncastrated mice and was accompanied by a concomitant amplification in CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) following immunization. We investigated whether Treg expansion occurred following castration of prostate tumor–bearing mice. In the prostate-specific Pten−/− mouse model of prostate cancer, we observed an accelerated Treg expansion in mice bearing the castration-resistant endogenous prostate tumor, which prevented effector responses to UV-8101-RE. Treg depletion together with castration elicited a strong CD8+ T-cell response to UV-8101-RE in Pten−/− mice and rescued effector function in castrated and immunized wild-type mice. In addition, Treg expansion in Pten−/− mice was prevented by in vivo interleukin (IL)-2 blockade suggesting that increased IL-2 generated by castration and immunization promotes Treg expansion. Our findings therefore suggest that although effector responses are augmented by castration, the concomitant expansion of Tregs is one mechanism responsible for only transient immune potentiation after androgen ablation. Cancer Res; 72(8); 1975–85. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Accuracy of Molecular Data Generated with FFPE Biospecimens: Lessons from the Literature
Authors: Greytak Sarah R. , Engel Kelly B. , Bass B. Paige , Moore Helen M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue biospecimens are a valuable resource for molecular cancer research. Although much can be gained from their use, it remains unclear whether the genomic and expression profiles obtained from FFPE biospecimens accurately reflect the physiologic condition of the patient from which they were procured, or if such profiles are confounded by biologic effects from formalin fixation and processing. To assess the physiologic accuracy of genomic and expression data generated with FFPE specimens, we surveyed the literature for articles investigating genomic and expression endpoints in case-matched FFPE and fresh or frozen human biospecimens using the National Cancer Institute's Biospecimen Research Database (http://biospecimens.cancer.gov/brd). Results of the survey revealed that the level of concordance between differentially preserved biospecimens varied among analytical parameters and platforms but also among reports, genes/transcripts of interest, and tumor status. The identified analytical techniques and parameters that resulted in strong correlations between FFPE and frozen biospecimens may provide guidance when optimizing molecular protocols for FFPE use; however, discrepancies reported for similar assays also illustrate the importance of validating protocols optimized for use with FFPE specimens with a case-matched fresh or frozen cohort for each platform, gene or transcript, and FFPE processing regime. On the basis of evidence published to date, validation of analytical parameters with a properly handled frozen cohort is necessary to ensure a high degree of concordance and confidence in the results obtained with FFPE biospecimens. Cancer Res; 75(8); 1541–7. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Stromal Fibroblasts Induce CCL20 through IL6/C/EBPβ to Support the Recruitment of Th17 Cells during Cervical Cancer Progression
Authors: Walch-Rückheim Barbara , Mavrova Russalina , Henning Melanie , Vicinus Benjamin , Kim Yoo-Jin , Bohle Rainer Maria , Juhasz-Böss Ingolf , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Smola Sigrun
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Cervical cancer is a consequence of persistent infection with human papillomaviruses (HPV). Progression to malignancy is linked to an inflammatory microenvironment comprising T-helper-17 (Th17) cells, a T-cell subset with protumorigenic properties. Neoplastic cells express only low endogenous levels of the Th17 chemoattractant CCL20, and therefore, it is unclear how Th17 cells are recruited to the cervical cancer tissue. In this study, we demonstrate that CCL20 was predominantly expressed in the stroma of cervical squamous cell carcinomas in situ. This correlated with stromal infiltration of CD4+/IL17+ cells and with advancing International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage. Furthermore, we show that cervical cancer cells instructed primary cervical fibroblasts to produce high levels of CCL20 and to attract CD4/IL17/CCR6-positive cells, generated in vitro, in a CCL20/CCR6-dependent manner. Further mechanistic investigations identified cervical cancer cell–derived IL6 as an important mediator of paracrine CCL20 induction at the promoter, mRNA, and protein level in fibroblasts. CCL20 was upregulated through the recently described CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ) pathway as shown with a dominant-negative version of C/EBPβ and through siRNA-mediated knockdown. In summary, our study defines a novel molecular mechanism by which cervical neoplastic cells shape their local microenvironment by instructing fibroblasts to support Th17 cell infiltration in a paracrine IL6/C/EBPβ-dependent manner. Th17 cells may in turn maintain chronic inflammation within high-grade cervical lesions to further promote cancer progression. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5248–59. ©2015 AACR.
Data from The Inescapable Influence of Noncoding RNAs in Cancer
Authors: Adams Brian D. , Anastasiadou Eleni , Esteller Manel , He Lin , Slack Frank J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This report summarizes information presented at the 2015 Keystone Symposium on “MicroRNAs and Noncoding RNAs in Cancer.” Nearly two decades after the discovery of the first miRNA, the role of noncoding RNAs in developmental processes and the mechanisms behind their dysregulation in cancer has been steadily elucidated. Excitingly, miRNAs have begun making their way into the clinic to combat diseases such as hepatitis C and various forms of cancer. Therefore, at this Keystone meeting, novel findings were presented that enhance our view on how small and long noncoding RNAs control developmental timing and oncogenic processes. Recurring themes included (i) how miRNAs can be differentially processed, degraded, and regulated by ribonucleoprotein complexes, (ii) how particular miRNA genetic networks that control developmental process, when disrupted, can result in cancer disease, (iii) the technologies available to therapeutically deliver RNA to combat diseases such as cancer, and (iv) the elucidation of the mechanism of actions for long noncoding RNAs, currently a poorly understood class of noncoding RNA. During the meeting, there was an emphasis on presenting unpublished findings, and the breadth of topics covered reflected how inescapable the influence of noncoding RNAs is in development and cancer. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5206–10. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Serum Immunoregulatory Proteins as Predictors of Overall Survival of Metastatic Melanoma Patients Treated with Ipilimumab
Authors: Koguchi Yoshinobu , Hoen Helena M. , Bambina Shelly A. , Rynning Michael D. , Fuerstenberg Richard K. , Curti Brendan D. , Urba Walter J. , Milburn Christina , Bahjat Frances Rena , Korman Alan J. , Bahjat Keith S.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Treatment with ipilimumab improves overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic melanoma. Because ipilimumab targets T lymphocytes and not the tumor itself, efficacy may be uniquely sensitive to immunomodulatory factors present at the time of treatment. We analyzed serum from patients with metastatic melanoma (247 of 273, 90.4%) randomly assigned to receive ipilimumab or gp100 peptide vaccine. We quantified candidate biomarkers at baseline and assessed the association of each using multivariate analyses. Results were confirmed in an independent cohort of similar patients (48 of 52, 92.3%) treated with ipilimumab. After controlling for baseline covariates, elevated chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 11 (CXCL11) and soluble MHC class I polypeptide–related chain A (sMICA) were associated with poor OS in ipilimumab-treated patients [log10 CXCL11: HR, 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.14–3.12; P = 0.014; and log10 sMICA quadratic effect P = 0.066; sMICA (≥ 247 vs. 247): HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.02–3.01]. Multivariate analysis of an independent ipilimumab-treated cohort confirmed the association between log10 CXCL11 and OS (HR, 3.18; 95% CI, 1.13–8.95; P = 0.029), whereas sMICA was less strongly associated with OS [log10 sMICA quadratic effect P = 0.16; sMICA (≥247 vs. 247): HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.67–3.27]. High baseline CXCL11 and sMICA were associated with poor OS in patients with metastatic melanoma after ipilimumab treatment but not vaccine treatment. Thus, pretreatment CXCL11 and sMICA may represent predictors of survival benefit after ipilimumab treatment as well as therapeutic targets. Cancer Res; 75(23); 5084–92. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Targeting a Plk1-Controlled Polarity Checkpoint in Therapy-Resistant Glioblastoma-Propagating Cells
Authors: Lerner Robin G. , Grossauer Stefan , Kadkhodaei Banafsheh , Meyers Ian , Sidorov Maxim , Koeck Katharina , Hashizume Rintaro , Ozawa Tomoko , Phillips Joanna J. , Berger Mitchel S. , Nicolaides Theodore , James C. David , Petritsch Claudia K.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) remains challenging in part due to the presence of stem-like tumor-propagating cells that are resistant to standard therapies consisting of radiation and temozolomide. Among the novel and targeted agents under evaluation for the treatment of GBM are BRAF/MAPK inhibitors, but their effects on tumor-propagating cells are unclear. Here, we characterized the behaviors of CD133+ tumor-propagating cells isolated from primary GBM cell lines. We show that CD133+ cells exhibited decreased sensitivity to the antiproliferative effects of BRAF/MAPK inhibition compared to CD133− cells. Furthermore, CD133+ cells exhibited an extended G2–M phase and increased polarized asymmetric cell divisions. At the molecular level, we observed that polo-like kinase (PLK) 1 activity was elevated in CD133+ cells, prompting our investigation of BRAF/PLK1 combination treatment effects in an orthotopic GBM xenograft model. Combined inhibition of BRAF and PLK1 resulted in significantly greater antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects beyond those achieved by monotherapy (P < 0.05). We propose that PLK1 activity controls a polarity checkpoint and compensates for BRAF/MAPK inhibition in CD133+ cells, suggesting the need for concurrent PLK1 inhibition to improve antitumor activity against a therapy-resistant cell compartment. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5355–66. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Generation of a Mouse Model of Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor of the Central Nervous System through Combined Deletion of Snf5 and p53
Authors: Ng Jessica M.Y. , Martinez Daniel , Marsh Eric D. , Zhang Zhe , Rappaport Eric , Santi Mariarita , Curran Tom
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Malignant rhabdoid tumors arise in several anatomic locations and are associated with poor outcomes. In the brain, these tumors are known as atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT). While genetically engineered models for malignant rhabdoid tumors exist, none of them recapitulate AT/RT, for which preclinical models remain lacking. In the majority of AT/RT, LOH occurs at the genetic locus SNF5 (Ini1/BAF47/Smarcb1), which functions as a subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex and a tumor suppressor in familial and sporadic malignant rhabdoid tumors. Therefore, we generated mice in which Snf5 was ablated specifically in nestin-positive and/or glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP)-positive progenitor cells of the developing central nervous system (CNS). Snf5 ablation in nestin-positive cells resulted in early lethality that could not be rescued by loss of p53. However, Snf5 ablation in GFAP-positive cells caused a neurodegenerative phenotype exacerbated by p53 loss. Notably, these double mutants exhibited AT/RT development, associated with an earlier failure in granule neuron migration in the cerebellum, reduced neuronal projections in the hippocampus, degeneration of the corpus callosum, and ataxia and seizures. Gene expression analysis confirmed that the tumors that arose in Snf5/p53 mutant mice were distinct from other neural tumors and most closely resembled human AT/RT. Our findings uncover a novel role for Snf5 in oligodendrocyte generation and survival, and they offer evidence of the first genetically engineered mouse model for AT/RT in the CNS. Cancer Res; 75(21); 4629–39. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Disseminated Tumor Cells Persist in the Bone Marrow of Breast Cancer Patients through Sustained Activation of the Unfolded Protein Response
Authors: Bartkowiak Kai , Kwiatkowski Marcel , Buck Friedrich , Gorges Tobias M. , Nilse Lars , Assmann Volker , Andreas Antje , Müller Volkmar , Wikman Harriet , Riethdorf Sabine , Schlüter Hartmut , Pantel Klaus
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Disseminated tumor cells (DTC), which share mesenchymal and epithelial properties, are considered to be metastasis-initiating cells in breast cancer. However, the mechanisms supporting DTC survival are poorly understood. DTC extravasation into the bone marrow may be encouraged by low oxygen concentrations that trigger metabolic and molecular alterations contributing to DTC survival. Here, we investigated how the unfolded protein response (UPR), an important cytoprotective program induced by hypoxia, affects the behavior of stressed cancer cells. DTC cell lines established from the bone marrow of patients with breast cancer (BC-M1), lung cancer, (LC-M1), and prostate cancer (PC-E1) were subjected to hypoxic and hypoglycemic conditions. BC-M1 and LC-M1 exhibiting mesenchymal and epithelial properties adapted readily to hypoxia and glucose starvation. Upregulation of UPR proteins, such as the glucose-regulated protein Grp78, induced the formation of filamentous networks, resulting in proliferative advantages and sustained survival under total glucose deprivation. High Grp78 expression correlated with mesenchymal attributes of breast and lung cancer cells and with poor differentiation in clinical samples of primary breast and lung carcinomas. In DTCs isolated from bone marrow specimens from breast cancer patients, Grp78-positive stress granules were observed, consistent with the likelihood these cells were exposed to acute cell stress. Overall, our findings provide the first evidence that the UPR is activated in DTC in the bone marrow from cancer patients, warranting further study of this cell stress pathway as a predictive biomarker for recurrent metastatic disease. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5367–77. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Identification of Patients with Recurrent Glioblastoma Who May Benefit from Combined Bevacizumab and CCNU Therapy: A Report from the BELOB Trial
Authors: Erdem-Eraslan Lale , van den Bent Martin J. , Hoogstrate Youri , Naz-Khan Hina , Stubbs Andrew , van der Spek Peter , Böttcher René , Gao Ya , de Wit Maurice , Taal Walter , Oosterkamp Hendrika M. , Walenkamp Annemiek , Beerepoot Laurens V. , Hanse Monique C.J. , Buter Jan , Honkoop Aafke H. , van der Holt Bronno , Vernhout René M. , Smitt Peter A.E. Sillevis , Kros Johan M. , French Pim J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The results from the randomized phase II BELOB trial provided evidence for a potential benefit of bevacizumab (beva), a humanized monoclonal antibody against circulating VEGF-A, when added to CCNU chemotherapy in patients with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM). In this study, we performed gene expression profiling (DASL and RNA-seq) of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor material from participants of the BELOB trial to identify patients with recurrent GBM who benefitted most from beva+CCNU treatment. We demonstrate that tumors assigned to the IGS-18 or “classical” subtype and treated with beva+CCNU showed a significant benefit in progression-free survival and a trend toward benefit in overall survival, whereas other subtypes did not exhibit such benefit. In particular, expression of FMO4 and OSBPL3 was associated with treatment response. Importantly, the improved outcome in the beva+CCNU treatment arm was not explained by an uneven distribution of prognostically favorable subtypes as all molecular glioma subtypes were evenly distributed along the different study arms. The RNA-seq analysis also highlighted genetic alterations, including mutations, gene fusions, and copy number changes, within this well-defined cohort of tumors that may serve as useful predictive or prognostic biomarkers of patient outcome. Further validation of the identified molecular markers may enable the future stratification of recurrent GBM patients into appropriate treatment regimens. Cancer Res; 76(3); 525–34. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Guidance Molecule SEMA3A Restricts Tumor Growth by Differentially Regulating the Proliferation of Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Wallerius Majken , Wallmann Tatjana , Bartish Margarita , Östling Jeanette , Mezheyeuski Artur , Tobin Nicholas P. , Nygren Emma , Pangigadde Pradeepa , Pellegrini Paola , Squadrito Mario Leonardo , Pontén Fredrik , Hartman Johan , Bergh Jonas , De Milito Angelo , De Palma Michele , Östman Arne , Andersson John , Rolny Charlotte
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Accumulation of tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) correlates with malignant progression, immune suppression, and poor prognosis. In this study, we defined a critical role for the cell-surface guidance molecule SEMA3A in differential proliferative control of TAMs. Tumor cell–derived SEMA3A restricted the proliferation of protumoral M2 macrophages but increased the proliferation of antitumoral M1, acting through the SEMA3A receptor neuropilin 1. Expansion of M1 macrophages in vivo enhanced the recruitment and activation of natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells to tumors, inhibiting their growth. In human breast cancer specimens, we found that immunohistochemical levels of SEMA3A correlated with the expression of genes characteristic of M1 macrophages, CD8+ T cells, and NK cells, while inversely correlating with established characters of malignancy. In summary, our results illuminate a mechanism whereby the TAM phenotype is controlled and identify the cell-surface molecule SEMA3A as a candidate for therapeutic targeting. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3166–78. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Exploring the Biomechanical Properties of Brain Malignancies and Their Pathologic Determinants In Vivo with Magnetic Resonance Elastography
Authors: Jamin Yann , Boult Jessica K.R. , Li Jin , Popov Sergey , Garteiser Philippe , Ulloa Jose L. , Cummings Craig , Box Gary , Eccles Suzanne A. , Jones Chris , Waterton John C. , Bamber Jeffrey C. , Sinkus Ralph , Robinson Simon P.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Malignant tumors are typically associated with altered rigidity relative to normal host tissue. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) enables the noninvasive quantitation of the mechanical properties of deep-seated tissue following application of an external vibrational mechanical stress to that tissue. In this preclinical study, we used MRE to quantify (kPa) the elasticity modulus Gd and viscosity modulus Gl of three intracranially implanted glioma and breast metastatic tumor models. In all these brain tumors, we found a notable softness characterized by lower elasticity and viscosity than normal brain parenchyma, enabling their detection on Gd and Gl parametric maps. The most circumscribed tumor (U-87 MG glioma) was the stiffest, whereas the most infiltrative tumor (MDA-MB-231 metastatic breast carcinoma) was the softest. Tumor cell density and microvessel density correlated significantly and positively with elasticity and viscosity, whereas there was no association with the extent of collagen deposition or myelin fiber entrapment. In conclusion, although malignant tumors tend to exhibit increased rigidity, intracranial tumors presented as remarkably softer than normal brain parenchyma. Our findings reinforce the case for MRE use in diagnosing and staging brain malignancies, based on the association of different tumor phenotypes with different mechanical properties. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1216–24. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Citrullinated Vimentin Presented on MHC-II in Tumor Cells Is a Target for CD4+ T-Cell–Mediated Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Brentville Victoria A. , Metheringham Rachael L. , Gunn Barbara , Symonds Peter , Daniels Ian , Gijon Mohamed , Cook Katherine , Xue Wei , Durrant Lindy G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Stressful conditions in the harsh tumor microenvironment induce autophagy in cancer cells as a mechanism to promote their survival. However, autophagy also causes post-translational modification of proteins that are recognized by the immune system. In particular, modified self-antigens can trigger CD4+ T-cell responses that might be exploited to boost antitumor immune defenses. In this study, we investigated the ability of CD4 cells to target tumor-specific self-antigens modified by citrullination, which converts arginine residues in proteins to citrulline. Focusing on the intermediate filament protein vimentin, which is frequently citrullinated in cells during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of metastasizing epithelial tumors, we generated citrullinated vimentin peptides for immunization experiments in mice. Immunization with these peptides induced IFNγ- and granzyme B-secreting CD4 T cells in response to autophagic tumor targets. Remarkably, a single immunization with modified peptide, up to 14 days after tumor implant, resulted in long-term survival in 60% to 90% of animals with no associated toxicity. This antitumor response was dependent on CD4 cells and not CD8+ T cells. These results show how CD4 cells can mediate potent antitumor responses against modified self-epitopes presented on tumor cells, and they illustrate for the first time how the citrullinated peptides may offer especially attractive vaccine targets for cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 76(3); 548–60. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Obesity-Induced Colorectal Cancer Is Driven by Caloric Silencing of the Guanylin–GUCY2C Paracrine Signaling Axis
Authors: Lin Jieru E. , Colon-Gonzalez Francheska , Blomain Erik , Kim Gilbert W. , Aing Amanda , Stoecker Brian , Rock Justin , Snook Adam E. , Zhan Tingting , Hyslop Terry M. , Tomczak Michal , Blumberg Richard S. , Waldman Scott A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Obesity is a well-known risk factor for colorectal cancer but precisely how it influences risks of malignancy remains unclear. During colon cancer development in humans or animals, attenuation of the colonic cell surface receptor guanylyl cyclase C (GUCY2C) that occurs due to loss of its paracrine hormone ligand guanylin contributes universally to malignant progression. In this study, we explored a link between obesity and GUCY2C silencing in colorectal cancer. Using genetically engineered mice on different diets, we found that diet-induced obesity caused a loss of guanylin expression in the colon with subsequent GUCY2C silencing, epithelial dysfunction, and tumorigenesis. Mechanistic investigations revealed that obesity reversibly silenced guanylin expression through calorie-dependent induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress and the unfolded protein response in intestinal epithelial cells. In transgenic mice, enforcing specific expression of guanylin in intestinal epithelial cells restored GUCY2C signaling, eliminating intestinal tumors associated with a high calorie diet. Our findings show how caloric suppression of the guanylin–GUCY2C signaling axis links obesity to negation of a universal tumor suppressor pathway in colorectal cancer, suggesting an opportunity to prevent colorectal cancer in obese patients through hormone replacement with the FDA-approved oral GUCY2C ligand linaclotide. Cancer Res; 76(2); 339–46. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Interactions between Adipocytes and Breast Cancer Cells Stimulate Cytokine Production and Drive Src/Sox2/miR-302b–Mediated Malignant Progression
Authors: Picon-Ruiz Manuel , Pan Chendong , Drews-Elger Katherine , Jang Kibeom , Besser Alexandra H. , Zhao Dekuang , Morata-Tarifa Cynthia , Kim Minsoon , Ince Tan A. , Azzam Diana J. , Wander Seth A. , Wang Bin , Ergonul Burcu , Datar Ram H. , Cote Richard J. , Howard Guy A. , El-Ashry Dorraya , Torné-Poyatos Pablo , Marchal Juan A. , Slingerland Joyce M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Consequences of the obesity epidemic on cancer morbidity and mortality are not fully appreciated. Obesity is a risk factor for many cancers, but the mechanisms by which it contributes to cancer development and patient outcome have yet to be fully elucidated. Here, we examined the effects of coculturing human-derived adipocytes with established and primary breast cancer cells on tumorigenic potential. We found that the interaction between adipocytes and cancer cells increased the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Prolonged culture of cancer cells with adipocytes or cytokines increased the proportion of mammosphere-forming cells and of cells expressing stem-like markers in vitro. Furthermore, contact with immature adipocytes increased the abundance of cancer cells with tumor-forming and metastatic potential in vivo. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that cancer cells cultured with immature adipocytes or cytokines activated Src, thus promoting Sox2, c-Myc, and Nanog upregulation. Moreover, Sox2-dependent induction of miR-302b further stimulated cMYC and SOX2 expression and potentiated the cytokine-induced cancer stem cell–like properties. Finally, we found that Src inhibitors decreased cytokine production after coculture, indicating that Src is not only activated by adipocyte or cytokine exposures, but is also required to sustain cytokine induction. These data support a model in which cancer cell invasion into local fat would establish feed-forward loops to activate Src, maintain proinflammatory cytokine production, and increase tumor-initiating cell abundance and metastatic progression. Collectively, our findings reveal new insights underlying increased breast cancer mortality in obese individuals and provide a novel preclinical rationale to test the efficacy of Src inhibitors for breast cancer treatment. Cancer Res; 76(2); 491–504. ©2016 AACR.
Data from ΔNp63α Silences a miRNA Program to Aberrantly Initiate a Wound-Healing Program That Promotes TGFβ-Induced Metastasis
Authors: Rodriguez Calleja Lidia , Jacques Camille , Lamoureux François , Baud'huin Marc , Tellez Gabriel Marta , Quillard Thibaut , Sahay Debashish , Perrot Pierre , Amiaud Jerome , Charrier Celine , Brion Regis , Lecanda Fernando , Verrecchia Franck , Heymann Dominique , Ellisen Leif W. , Ory Benjamin
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Primary cancer cell dissemination is a key event during the metastatic cascade, but context-specific determinants of this process remain largely undefined. Multiple reports have suggested that the p53 (TP53) family member p63 (TP63) plays an antimetastatic role through its minor epithelial isoform containing the N-terminal transactivation domain (TAp63). However, the role and contribution of the major p63 isoform lacking this domain, ΔNp63α, remain largely undefined. Here, we report a distinct and TAp63-independent mechanism by which ΔNp63α-expressing cells within a TGFβ-rich microenvironment become positively selected for metastatic dissemination. Orthotopic transplantation of ΔNp63α-expressing human osteosarcoma cells into athymic mice resulted in larger and more frequent lung metastases than transplantation of control cells. Mechanistic investigations revealed that ΔNp63α repressed miR-527 and miR-665, leading to the upregulation of two TGFβ effectors, SMAD4 and TβRII (TGFBR2). Furthermore, we provide evidence that this mechanism reflects a fundamental role for ΔNp63α in the normal wound-healing response. We show that ΔNp63α-mediated repression of miR-527/665 controls a TGFβ-dependent signaling node that switches off antimigratory miR-198 by suppressing the expression of the regulatory factor, KSRP (KHSRP). Collectively, these findings reveal that a novel miRNA network involved in the regulation of physiologic wound-healing responses is hijacked and suppressed by tumor cells to promote metastatic dissemination. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3236–51. ©2016 AACR.
Data from EF Hand Protein IBA2 Promotes Cell Proliferation in Breast Cancers via Transcriptional Control of Cyclin D1
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Shuling , Li Lingsong
Published: April 2023

Abstract
EF hand (EFh) domain–containing proteins have been implicated in malignant progression, but their precise functional contributions are uncertain. Here, we report evidence that the EFh protein IBA2 promotes the proliferation of breast cancer cells by facilitating their transit through the G1–S cell-cycle transition. Mechanistic investigations revealed that IBA2 acted at the transcriptional level to promote the expression of the critical cell-cycle regulator cyclin D1. Clinically, we found that levels of IBA2 were significantly upregulated in breast cancer specimens, where its expression correlated positively with histologic grade. Our results suggest a key role for IBA2 in mammary tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 76(15); 4535–45. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Comparative Cistromics Reveals Genomic Cross-talk between FOXA1 and ERα in Tamoxifen-Associated Endometrial Carcinomas
Authors: Droog Marjolein , Nevedomskaya Ekaterina , Kim Yongsoo , Severson Tesa , Flach Koen D. , Opdam Mark , Schuurman Karianne , Gradowska Patrycja , Hauptmann Michael , Dackus Gwen , Hollema Harry , Mourits Marian J. , Nederlof Petra , van Boven Hester , Linn Sabine C. , Wessels Lodewyk , van Leeuwen Flora E. , Zwart Wilbert
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tamoxifen, a small-molecule antagonist of the transcription factor estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) used to treat breast cancer, increases risks of endometrial cancer. However, no parallels of ERα transcriptional action in breast and endometrial tumors have been found that might explain this effect. In this study, we addressed this issue with a genome-wide assessment of ERα-chromatin interactions in surgical specimens obtained from patients with tamoxifen-associated endometrial cancer. ERα was found at active enhancers in endometrial cancer cells as marked by the presence of RNA polymerase II and the histone marker H3K27Ac. These ERα binding sites were highly conserved between breast and endometrial cancer and enriched in binding motifs for the transcription factor FOXA1, which displayed substantial overlap with ERα binding sites proximal to genes involved in classical ERα target genes. Multifactorial ChIP-seq data integration from the endometrial cancer cell line Ishikawa illustrated a functional genomic network involving ERα and FOXA1 together with the enhancer-enriched transcriptional regulators p300, FOXM1, TEAD4, FNFIC, CEBP8, and TCF12. Immunohistochemical analysis of 230 primary endometrial tumor specimens showed that lack of FOXA1 and ERα expression was associated with a longer interval between breast cancer and the emergence of endometrial cancer, exclusively in tamoxifen-treated patients. Our results define conserved sites for a genomic interplay between FOXA1 and ERα in breast cancer and tamoxifen-associated endometrial cancer. In addition, FOXA1 and ERα are associated with the interval time between breast cancer and endometrial cancer only in tamoxifen-treated breast cancer patients. Cancer Res; 76(13); 3773–84. ©2016 AACR.
Data from An Integrated Analysis of Heterogeneous Drug Responses in Acute Myeloid Leukemia That Enables the Discovery of Predictive Biomarkers
Authors: Chen Weihsu C. , Yuan Julie S. , Xing Yan , Mitchell Amanda , Mbong Nathan , Popescu Andreea C. , McLeod Jessica , Gerhard Gitte , Kennedy James A. , Bogdanoski Goce , Lauriault Stevan , Perdu Sofie , Merkulova Yulia , Minden Mark D. , Hogge Donna E. , Guidos Cynthia , Dick John E. , Wang Jean C.Y.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Many promising new cancer drugs proceed through preclinical testing and early-phase trials only to fail in late-stage clinical testing. Thus, improved models that better predict survival outcomes and enable the development of biomarkers are needed to identify patients most likely to respond to and benefit from therapy. Here, we describe a comprehensive approach in which we incorporated biobanking, xenografting, and multiplexed phospho-flow (PF) cytometric profiling to study drug response and identify predictive biomarkers in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. To test the efficacy of our approach, we evaluated the investigational JAK2 inhibitor fedratinib (FED) in 64 patient samples. FED robustly reduced leukemia in mouse xenograft models in 59% of cases and was also effective in limiting the protumorigenic activity of leukemia stem cells as shown by serial transplantation assays. In parallel, PF profiling identified FED-mediated reduction in phospho-STAT5 (pSTAT5) levels as a predictive biomarker of in vivo drug response with high specificity (92%) and strong positive predictive value (93%). Unexpectedly, another JAK inhibitor, ruxolitinib (RUX), was ineffective in 8 of 10 FED-responsive samples. Notably, this outcome could be predicted by the status of pSTAT5 signaling, which was unaffected by RUX treatment. Consistent with this observed discrepancy, PF analysis revealed that FED exerted its effects through multiple JAK2-independent mechanisms. Collectively, this work establishes an integrated approach for testing novel anticancer agents that captures the inherent variability of response caused by disease heterogeneity and in parallel, facilitates the identification of predictive biomarkers that can help stratify patients into appropriate clinical trials. Cancer Res; 76(5); 1214–24. ©2016 AACR.
Data from BMX Negatively Regulates BAK Function, Thereby Increasing Apoptotic Resistance to Chemotherapeutic Drugs
Authors: Fox Joanna L. , Storey Alan
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The ability of chemotherapeutic agents to induce apoptosis, predominantly via the mitochondrial (intrinsic) apoptotic pathway, is thought to be a major determinant of the sensitivity of a given cancer to treatment. Intrinsic apoptosis, regulated by the BCL2 family, integrates diverse apoptotic signals to determine cell death commitment and then activates the nodal effector protein BAK to initiate the apoptotic cascade. In this study, we identified the tyrosine kinase BMX as a direct negative regulator of BAK function. BMX associates with BAK in viable cells and is the first kinase to phosphorylate the key tyrosine residue needed to maintain BAK in an inactive conformation. Importantly, elevated BMX expression prevents BAK activation in tumor cells treated with chemotherapeutic agents and is associated with increased resistance to apoptosis and decreased patient survival. Accordingly, BMX expression was elevated in prostate, breast, and colon cancers compared with normal tissue, including in aggressive triple-negative breast cancers where BMX overexpression may be a novel biomarker. Furthermore, BMX silencing potentiated BAK activation, rendering tumor cells hypersensitive to otherwise sublethal doses of clinically relevant chemotherapeutic agents. Our finding that BMX directly inhibits a core component of the intrinsic apoptosis machinery opens opportunities to improve the efficacy of existing chemotherapy by potentiating BAK-driven cell death in cancer cells. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1345–55. ©2015 AACR.