bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from PD-1/SHP-2 Inhibits Tc1/Th1 Phenotypic Responses and the Activation of T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Li Jing , Jie Hyun-Bae , Lei Yu , Gildener-Leapman Neil , Trivedi Sumita , Green Tony , Kane Lawrence P. , Ferris Robert L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Immune rejection of tumors is mediated by IFNγ production and T-cell cytolytic activity. These processes are impeded by PD-1, a coinhibitory molecule expressed on T cells that is elevated in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). PD-1 elevation may reflect T-cell exhaustion marked by decreased proliferation, production of type I cytokines, and poor cytolytic activity. Although anti–PD-1 antibodies enhance IFNγ secretion after stimulation of the T-cell receptor (TCR), the mechanistic link between PD-1 and its effects on T-cell help (Tc1/Th1 skewing) remains unclear. In prospectively collected cancer tissues, we found that TIL exhibited dampened Tc1/Th1 skewing and activation compared with peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). When PD-1 bound its ligand PD-L1, we observed a marked suppression of critical TCR target genes and Th1 cytokines. Conversely, PD-1 blockade reversed these suppressive effects of PD-1:PD-L1 ligation. We also found that the TCR-regulated phosphatase SHP-2 was expressed higher in TIL than in PBL, tightly correlating with PD-1 expression and negative regulation of TCR target genes. Overall, these results defined a PD-1/SHP-2/STAT1/T-bet signaling axis mediating the suppressive effects of PD-1 on Th1 immunity at tumor sites. Our findings argue that PD-1 or SHP-2 blockade will be sufficient to restore robust Th1 immunity and T-cell activation and thereby reverse immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 75(3); 508–18. ©2014 AACR.
Data from BH3 Inhibitor Sensitivity and Bcl-2 Dependence in Primary Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Alford Sarah E. , Kothari Anisha , Loeff Floris C. , Eichhorn Joshua M. , Sakurikar Nandini , Goselink Henriette M. , Saylors Robert L. , Jedema Inge , Falkenburg J.H. Frederik , Chambers Timothy C.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
BH3 mimetic drugs may be useful to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) but the sensitivity of primary tumor cells has not been fully evaluated. Here, B-lineage ALL cell cultures derived from a set of primary tumors were studied with respect to sensitivity to the BH3 mimetics ABT-263 and ABT-199 and to Bcl-2 dependence and function. These ALL cells each expressed high levels of Bcl-2 and exhibited great sensitivity to ABT-263 and ABT-199, which induced rapid apoptotic cell death. BH3 profiling indicated that the ALL cultures were Bcl-2 dependent. Coimmunoprecipitation studies revealed a multifaceted role for Bcl-2 in binding proapoptotic partners including Bax, Bak, Bik, and Bim. ABT-263 disrupted Bcl-2:Bim interaction in cells. Mcl-1 overexpression rendered ALL cells resistant to ABT-263 and ABT-199, with Mcl-1 assuming the role of Bcl-2 in binding Bim. Freshly isolated pediatric ALL blasts also expressed high levels of Bcl-2 and exhibited high sensitivity to Bcl-2 inhibition by the BH3 mimetic compounds. Overall, our results showed that primary ALL cultures were both more sensitive to BH3 mimetics and more uniform in their response than established ALL cell lines that have been evaluated previously. Furthermore, the primary cell model characterized here offers a powerful system for preclinical testing of novel drugs and drug combinations to treat ALL. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1366–75. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Evolutionary Action Score of TP53 Identifies High-Risk Mutations Associated with Decreased Survival and Increased Distant Metastases in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Neskey David M. , Osman Abdullah A. , Ow Thomas J. , Katsonis Panagiotis , McDonald Thomas , Hicks Stephanie C. , Hsu Teng-Kuei , Pickering Curtis R. , Ward Alexandra , Patel Ameeta , Yordy John S. , Skinner Heath D. , Giri Uma , Sano Daisuke , Story Michael D. , Beadle Beth M. , El-Naggar Adel K. , Kies Merrill S. , William William N. , Caulin Carlos , Frederick Mitchell , Kimmel Marek , Myers Jeffrey N. , Lichtarge Olivier
Published: March 2024

Abstract
TP53 is the most frequently altered gene in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, with mutations occurring in over two-thirds of cases, but the prognostic significance of these mutations remains elusive. In the current study, we evaluated a novel computational approach termed evolutionary action (EAp53) to stratify patients with tumors harboring TP53 mutations as high or low risk, and validated this system in both in vivo and in vitro models. Patients with high-risk TP53 mutations had the poorest survival outcomes and the shortest time to the development of distant metastases. Tumor cells expressing high-risk TP53 mutations were more invasive and tumorigenic and they exhibited a higher incidence of lung metastases. We also documented an association between the presence of high-risk mutations and decreased expression of TP53 target genes, highlighting key cellular pathways that are likely to be dysregulated by this subset of p53 mutations that confer particularly aggressive tumor behavior. Overall, our work validated EAp53 as a novel computational tool that may be useful in clinical prognosis of tumors harboring p53 mutations. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1527–36. ©2015 AACR.
Data from The SMARCA2/4 ATPase Domain Surpasses the Bromodomain as a Drug Target in SWI/SNF-Mutant Cancers: Insights from cDNA Rescue and PFI-3 Inhibitor Studies
Authors: Vangamudi Bhavatarini , Paul Thomas A. , Shah Parantu K. , Kost-Alimova Maria , Nottebaum Lisa , Shi Xi , Zhan Yanai , Leo Elisabetta , Mahadeshwar Harshad S. , Protopopov Alexei , Futreal Andrew , Tieu Trang N. , Peoples Mike , Heffernan Timothy P. , Marszalek Joseph R. , Toniatti Carlo , Petrocchi Alessia , Verhelle Dominique , Owen Dafydd R. , Draetta Giulio , Jones Philip , Palmer Wylie S. , Sharma Shikhar , Andersen Jannik N.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The SWI/SNF multisubunit complex modulates chromatin structure through the activity of two mutually exclusive catalytic subunits, SMARCA2 and SMARCA4, which both contain a bromodomain and an ATPase domain. Using RNAi, cancer-specific vulnerabilities have been identified in SWI/SNF-mutant tumors, including SMARCA4-deficient lung cancer; however, the contribution of conserved, druggable protein domains to this anticancer phenotype is unknown. Here, we functionally deconstruct the SMARCA2/4 paralog dependence of cancer cells using bioinformatics, genetic, and pharmacologic tools. We evaluate a selective SMARCA2/4 bromodomain inhibitor (PFI-3) and characterize its activity in chromatin-binding and cell-functional assays focusing on cells with altered SWI/SNF complex (e.g., lung, synovial sarcoma, leukemia, and rhabdoid tumors). We demonstrate that PFI-3 is a potent, cell-permeable probe capable of displacing ectopically expressed, GFP-tagged SMARCA2-bromodomain from chromatin, yet contrary to target knockdown, the inhibitor fails to display an antiproliferative phenotype. Mechanistically, the lack of pharmacologic efficacy is reconciled by the failure of bromodomain inhibition to displace endogenous, full-length SMARCA2 from chromatin as determined by in situ cell extraction, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and target gene expression studies. Furthermore, using inducible RNAi and cDNA complementation (bromodomain- and ATPase-dead constructs), we unequivocally identify the ATPase domain, and not the bromodomain of SMARCA2, as the relevant therapeutic target with the catalytic activity suppressing defined transcriptional programs. Taken together, our complementary genetic and pharmacologic studies exemplify a general strategy for multidomain protein drug-target validation and in case of SMARCA2/4 highlight the potential for drugging the more challenging helicase/ATPase domain to deliver on the promise of synthetic-lethality therapy. Cancer Res; 75(18); 3865–78. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Checkpoint Kinase 2 Negatively Regulates Androgen Sensitivity and Prostate Cancer Cell Growth
Authors: Ta Huy Q. , Ivey Melissa L. , Frierson Henry F. , Conaway Mark R. , Dziegielewski Jaroslaw , Larner James M. , Gioeli Daniel
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, and curing metastatic disease remains a significant challenge. Nearly all patients with disseminated prostate cancer initially respond to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), but virtually all patients will relapse and develop incurable castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). A high-throughput RNAi screen to identify signaling pathways regulating prostate cancer cell growth led to our discovery that checkpoint kinase 2 (CHK2) knockdown dramatically increased prostate cancer growth and hypersensitized cells to low androgen levels. Mechanistic investigations revealed that the effects of CHK2 were dependent on the downstream signaling proteins CDC25C and CDK1. Moreover, CHK2 depletion increased androgen receptor (AR) transcriptional activity on androgen-regulated genes, substantiating the finding that CHK2 affects prostate cancer proliferation, partly, through the AR. Remarkably, we further show that CHK2 is a novel AR-repressed gene, suggestive of a negative feedback loop between CHK2 and AR. In addition, we provide evidence that CHK2 physically associates with the AR and that cell-cycle inhibition increased this association. Finally, IHC analysis of CHK2 in prostate cancer patient samples demonstrated a decrease in CHK2 expression in high-grade tumors. In conclusion, we propose that CHK2 is a negative regulator of androgen sensitivity and prostate cancer growth, and that CHK2 signaling is lost during prostate cancer progression to castration resistance. Thus, perturbing CHK2 signaling may offer a new therapeutic approach for sensitizing CRPC to ADT and radiation. Cancer Res; 75(23); 5093–105. ©2015 AACR.
Data from miR-339-3p Is a Tumor Suppressor in Melanoma
Authors: Weber Claudia E.M. , Luo Chonglin , Hotz-Wagenblatt Agnes , Gardyan Adriane , Kordaß Theresa , Holland-Letz Tim , Osen Wolfram , Eichmüller Stefan B.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Determinants of invasion and metastasis in cancer remain of great interest to define. Here, we report the definition of miR-339-3p as a novel tumor suppressive microRNA that blocks melanoma cell invasion without affecting cell survival. miR-339-3p was identified by a comprehensive functional screen of a human miRNA mimetic library in a cell-based assay for invasion by the melanoma cell line A375. miR-339-3p was determined as a strong inhibitor of invasion differentially expressed in melanoma cells and healthy melanocytes. MCL1 was defined as a target for downregulation by miR-339-3p, functioning through direct interaction with the 3′ untranslated region of MCL1 mRNA. Blocking miR-339-3p by an antagomiR was sufficient to increase melanoma cell invasion, an effect that could be phenocopied by RNAi-mediated silencing of MCL1. In vivo studies established that miR-339-3p overexpression was sufficient to decrease lung colonization by A375 melanoma cells in NSG mice, relative to control cells. Overall, our results defined miR-339-3p as a melanoma tumor suppressor, the levels of which contributes to invasive aggressiveness. Cancer Res; 76(12); 3562–71. ©2016 AACR.
Data from p21 Ablation in Liver Enhances DNA Damage, Cholestasis, and Carcinogenesis
Authors: Ehedego Haksier , Boekschoten Mark V. , Hu Wei , Doler Carina , Haybaeck Johannes , Gaβler Nikolaus , Müller Michael , Liedtke Christian , Trautwein Christian
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Genetic mouse studies suggest that the NF-κB pathway regulator NEMO (also known as IKKγ) controls chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis in the liver. However, the molecular mechanisms explaining the function of NEMO are not well defined. Here, we report that overexpression of the cell-cycle regulator p21 is a critical feature of liver inflammation and carcinogenesis caused by the loss of NEMO. NEMOΔhepa mice develop chronic hepatitis characterized by increased hepatocyte apoptosis and proliferation that causes the development of fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), similar to the situation in human liver disease. Having identified p21 overexpression in this model, we evaluated its role in disease progression and LPS-mediated liver injury in double mutant NEMOΔhepa/p21−/− mice. Eight-week-old NEMOΔhepa/p21−/− animals displayed accelerated liver damage that was not associated with alterations in cell-cycle progression or the inflammatory response. However, livers from NEMOΔhepa/p21−/− mice displayed more severe DNA damage that was further characterized by LPS administration correlating with higher lethality of the animals. This phenotype was attenuated by genetic ablation of the TNF receptor TNF-R1 in NEMOΔhepa/p21−/− mice, demonstrating that DNA damage is induced via TNF. One-year-old NEMOΔhepa/p21−/− mice displayed greater numbers of HCC and severe cholestasis compared with NEMOΔhepa animals. Therefore, p21 overexpression in NEMOΔhepa animals protects against DNA damage, acceleration of hepatocarcinogenesis, and cholestasis. Taken together, our findings illustrate how loss of NEMO promotes chronic liver inflammation and carcinogenesis, and they identify a novel protective role for p21 against the generation of DNA damage. Cancer Res; 75(6); 1144–55. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Microenvironment-Modulated Metastatic CD133+/CXCR4+/EpCAM− Lung Cancer–Initiating Cells Sustain Tumor Dissemination and Correlate with Poor Prognosis
Authors: Bertolini Giulia , D'Amico Lucia , Moro Massimo , Landoni Elena , Perego Paola , Miceli Rosalba , Gatti Laura , Andriani Francesca , Wong Donald , Caserini Roberto , Tortoreto Monica , Milione Massimo , Ferracini Riccardo , Mariani Luigi , Pastorino Ugo , Roato Ilaria , Sozzi Gabriella , Roz Luca
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Metastasis is the main reason for lung cancer–related mortality, but little is known about specific determinants of successful dissemination from primary tumors and metastasis initiation. Here, we show that CD133+/CXCR4+ cancer-initiating cells (CIC) directly isolated from patient-derived xenografts (PDX) of non–small cell lung cancer are endowed with superior ability to seed and initiate metastasis at distant organs. We additionally report that CXCR4 inhibition successfully prevents the increase of cisplatin-resistant CD133+/CXCR4+ cells in residual tumors and their metastatization. Immunophenotypic analysis of lung tumor cells intravenously injected or spontaneously disseminated to murine lungs demonstrated the survival advantage and increased colonization ability of a specific subset of CD133+/CXCR4+ with reduced expression of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM−), which also shows the greatest in vitro invasive potential. We next prove that recovered disseminated cells from lungs of PDX-bearing mice enriched for CD133+/CXCR4+/EpCAM− CICs are highly tumorigenic and metastatic. Importantly, microenvironment stimuli eliciting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, including signals from cancer-associated fibroblasts, are able to increase the dissemination potential of lung cancer cells through the generation of the CD133+/CXCR4+/EpCAM− subset. These findings also have correlates in patient samples where disseminating CICs are enriched in metastatic lymph nodes (20-fold, P = 0.006) and their detection in primary tumors is correlated with poor clinical outcome (disease-free survival: P = 0.03; overall survival: P = 0.05). Overall, these results highlight the importance of specific cellular subsets in the metastatic process, the need for in-depth characterization of disseminating tumor cells, and the potential of therapeutic strategies targeting both primary tumor and tumor–microenvironment interactions. Cancer Res; 75(17); 3636–49. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Identification of Novel Fusion Genes in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Hoff Andreas M. , Alagaratnam Sharmini , Zhao Sen , Bruun Jarle , Andrews Peter W. , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Skotheim Rolf I.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most frequently diagnosed solid tumors in young men ages 15 to 44 years. Embryonal carcinomas (EC) comprise a subset of TGCTs that exhibit pluripotent characteristics similar to embryonic stem (ES) cells, but the genetic drivers underlying malignant transformation of ECs are unknown. To elucidate the abnormal genetic events potentially contributing to TGCT malignancy, such as the existence of fusion genes or aberrant fusion transcript expression, we performed RNA sequencing of EC cell lines and their nonmalignant ES cell line counterparts. We identified eight novel fusion transcripts and one gene with alternative promoter usage, ETV6. Four out of nine transcripts were found recurrently expressed in an extended panel of primary TGCTs and additional EC cell lines, but not in normal parenchyma of the testis, implying tumor-specific expression. Two of the recurrent transcripts involved an intrachromosomal fusion between RCC1 and HENMT1 located 80 Mbp apart and an interchromosomal fusion between RCC1 and ABHD12B. RCC1-ABHD12B and the ETV6 transcript variant were found to be preferentially expressed in the more undifferentiated TGCT subtypes. In vitro differentiation of the NTERA2 EC cell line resulted in significantly reduced expression of both fusion transcripts involving RCC1 and the ETV6 transcript variant, indicating that they are markers of pluripotency in a malignant setting. In conclusion, we identified eight novel fusion transcripts that, to our knowledge, are the first fusion genes described in TGCT and may therefore potentially serve as genomic biomarkers of malignant progression. Cancer Res; 76(1); 108–16. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Agr2 Mediates Paracrine Effects on Stromal Fibroblasts That Promote Invasion by Gastric Signet-Ring Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Tsuji Tadahiro , Satoyoshi Rika , Aiba Namiko , Kubo Takanori , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Maeda Daichi , Goto Akiteru , Ishikawa Kazuo , Yashiro Masakazu , Tanaka Masamitsu
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Agr2 is a disulfide isomerase residing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which physiologically regulates protein folding and mediates resistance to ER stress. Agr2 is overexpressed in adenocarcinomas of various organs, where it participates in neoplastic transformation and metastasis, therefore acts as a pro-oncogenic protein. Besides its normal localization in the ER, Agr2 is also found in the serum and urine of cancer patients, although the physiological significance of extracellular Agr2 is poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated that extracellular Agr2 can activate stromal fibroblasts and promote fibroblast-associated cancer invasion in gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRCC), where Agr2 is highly expressed. Agr2 secreted from SRCC cells was incorporated by the surrounding gastric fibroblasts and promoted invasion by these cells. In turn, activated fibroblasts coordinated the invasive behavior of fibroblasts and cancer cells. Our findings suggested that Agr2 drives progression of gastric SRCC by exerting paracrine effects on fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment, acting also to increase the growth and resistance of SRCC cells to oxidative and hypoxic stress as cell autonomous effects. Cancer Res; 75(2); 356–66. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Activation of Pim Kinases Is Sufficient to Promote Resistance to MET Small-Molecule Inhibitors
Authors: An Ningfei , Xiong Ying , LaRue Amanda C. , Kraft Andrew S. , Cen Bo
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) blockade offers a new targeted therapy particularly in those cancers with MET amplification. However, the efficacy and the duration of the response to MET inhibitors are limited by the emergence of drug resistance. Here, we report that resistance to small-molecule inhibitors of MET can arise from increased expression of the prosurvival Pim protein kinases. This resistance mechanism was documented in non–small cell lung cancer and gastric cancer cells with MET amplification. Inhibition of Pim kinases enhanced cell death triggered by short-term treatment with MET inhibitors. Pim kinases control the translation of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 at an internal ribosome entry site and this mechanism was identified as the basis for Pim-mediated resistance to MET inhibitors. Protein synthesis was increased in drug-resistant cells, secondary to a Pim-mediated increase in cap-independent translation. In cells rendered drug resistant by chronic treatment with MET inhibitors, genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of Pim kinases was sufficient to restore sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our results rationalize Pim inhibition as a strategy to augment responses and blunt acquired resistance to MET inhibitors in cancer. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5318–28. ©2015 AACR.
Data from CEACAM1-3S Drives Melanoma Cells into NK Cell-Mediated Cytolysis and Enhances Patient Survival
Authors: Ullrich Nico , Heinemann Anja , Nilewski Elena , Scheffrahn Inka , Klode Joachim , Scherag André , Schadendorf Dirk , Singer Bernhard B. , Helfrich Iris
Published: March 2024

Abstract
CEACAM1 is a widely expressed multifunctional cell–cell adhesion protein reported to serve as a poor prognosis marker in melanoma patients. In this study, we examine the functional and clinical contributions of the four splice isoforms of CEACAM1. Specifically, we present in vitro and in vivo evidence that they affect melanoma progression and immune surveillance in a negative or positive manner that is isoform specific in action. In contrast with isoforms CEACAM1-4S and CEACAM1-4L, expression of isoforms CEACAM1-3S and CEACAM1-3L is induced during disease progression shown to correlate with clinical stage. Unexpectedly, overall survival was prolonged in patients with advanced melanomas expressing CEACAM1-3S. The favorable effects of CEACAM1-3S related to enhanced immunogenicity, which was mediated by cell surface upregulation of NKG2D receptor ligands, thereby sensitizing melanoma cells to lysis by natural killer cells. Conversely, CEACAM1-4L downregulated cell surface levels of the NKG2D ligands MICA and ULBP2 by enhanced shedding, thereby promoting malignant character. Overall, our results define the splice isoform-specific immunomodulatory and cell biologic functions of CEACAM1 in melanoma pathogenesis. Cancer Res; 75(9); 1897–907. ©2015 AACR.
Data from PDK1 and SGK3 Contribute to the Growth of BRAF-Mutant Melanomas and Are Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Scortegagna Marzia , Lau Eric , Zhang Tongwu , Feng Yongmei , Sereduk Chris , Yin Hongwei , De Surya K. , Meeth Katrina , Platt James T. , Langdon Casey G. , Halaban Ruth , Pellecchia Maurizio , Davies Michael A. , Brown Kevin , Stern David F. , Bosenberg Marcus , Ronai Ze'ev A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Melanoma development involves members of the AGC kinase family, including AKT, PKC, and, most recently, PDK1, as elucidated recently in studies of Braf::Pten mutant melanomas. Here, we report that PDK1 contributes functionally to skin pigmentation and to the development of melanomas harboring a wild-type PTEN genotype, which occurs in about 70% of human melanomas. The PDK1 substrate SGK3 was determined to be an important mediator of PDK1 activities in melanoma cells. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of PDK1 and SGK3 attenuated melanoma growth by inducing G1 phase cell-cycle arrest. In a synthetic lethal screen, pan-PI3K inhibition synergized with PDK1 inhibition to suppress melanoma growth, suggesting that focused blockade of PDK1/PI3K signaling might offer a new therapeutic modality for wild-type PTEN tumors. We also noted that responsiveness to PDK1 inhibition associated with decreased expression of pigmentation genes and increased expression of cytokines and inflammatory genes, suggesting a method to stratify patients with melanoma for PDK1-based therapies. Overall, our work highlights the potential significance of PDK1 as a therapeutic target to improve melanoma treatment. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1399–412. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Suppression of Intratumoral CCL22 by Type I Interferon Inhibits Migration of Regulatory T Cells and Blocks Cancer Progression
Authors: Anz David , Rapp Moritz , Eiber Stephan , Koelzer Viktor H. , Thaler Raffael , Haubner Sascha , Knott Max , Nagel Sarah , Golic Michaela , Wiedemann Gabriela M. , Bauernfeind Franz , Wurzenberger Cornelia , Hornung Veit , Scholz Christoph , Mayr Doris , Rothenfusser Simon , Endres Stefan , Bourquin Carole
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The chemokine CCL22 is abundantly expressed in many types of cancer and is instrumental for intratumoral recruitment of regulatory T cells (Treg), an important subset of immunosuppressive and tumor-promoting lymphocytes. In this study, we offer evidence for a generalized strategy to blunt Treg activity that can limit immune escape and promote tumor rejection. Activation of innate immunity with Toll-like receptor (TLR) or RIG-I–like receptor (RLR) ligands prevented accumulation of Treg in tumors by blocking their immigration. Mechanistic investigations indicated that Treg blockade was a consequence of reduced intratumoral CCL22 levels caused by type I IFN. Notably, stable expression of CCL22 abrogated the antitumor effects of treatment with RLR or TLR ligands. Taken together, our findings argue that type I IFN blocks the Treg-attracting chemokine CCL22 and thus helps limit the recruitment of Treg to tumors, a finding with implications for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Res; 75(21); 4483–93. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Akt Inhibition Enhances Expansion of Potent Tumor-Specific Lymphocytes with Memory Cell Characteristics
Authors: Crompton Joseph G. , Sukumar Madhusudhanan , Roychoudhuri Rahul , Clever David , Gros Alena , Eil Robert L. , Tran Eric , Hanada Ken-ichi , Yu Zhiya , Palmer Douglas C. , Kerkar Sid P. , Michalek Ryan D. , Upham Trevor , Leonardi Anthony , Acquavella Nicolas , Wang Ena , Marincola Francesco M. , Gattinoni Luca , Muranski Pawel , Sundrud Mark S. , Klebanoff Christopher A. , Rosenberg Steven A. , Fearon Douglas T. , Restifo Nicholas P.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) results in complete regression of advanced cancer in some patients, but the efficacy of this potentially curative therapy may be limited by poor persistence of TIL after adoptive transfer. Pharmacologic inhibition of the serine/threonine kinase Akt has recently been shown to promote immunologic memory in virus-specific murine models, but whether this approach enhances features of memory (e.g., long-term persistence) in TIL that are characteristically exhausted and senescent is not established. Here, we show that pharmacologic inhibition of Akt enables expansion of TIL with the transcriptional, metabolic, and functional properties characteristic of memory T cells. Consequently, Akt inhibition results in enhanced persistence of TIL after adoptive transfer into an immunodeficient animal model and augments antitumor immunity of CD8 T cells in a mouse model of cell-based immunotherapy. Pharmacologic inhibition of Akt represents a novel immunometabolomic approach to enhance the persistence of antitumor T cells and improve the efficacy of cell-based immunotherapy for metastatic cancer. Cancer Res; 75(2); 296–305. ©2014 AACR.
Data from UV-Associated Mutations Underlie the Etiology of MCV-Negative Merkel Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Wong Stephen Q. , Waldeck Kelly , Vergara Ismael A. , Schröder Jan , Madore Jason , Wilmott James S. , Colebatch Andrew J. , De Paoli-Iseppi Ricardo , Li Jason , Lupat Richard , Semple Timothy , Arnau Gisela Mir , Fellowes Andrew , Leonard J. Helen , Hruby George , Mann Graham J. , Thompson John F. , Cullinane Carleen , Johnston Meredith , Shackleton Mark , Sandhu Shahneen , Bowtell David D.L. , Johnstone Ricky W. , Fox Stephen B. , McArthur Grant A. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Scolyer Richard A. , Gill Anthony J. , Hicks Rodney J. , Tothill Richard W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon, but highly malignant, cutaneous tumor. Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCV) has been implicated in a majority of MCC tumors; however, viral-negative tumors have been reported to be more prevalent in some geographic regions subject to high sun exposure. While the impact of MCV and viral T-antigens on MCC development has been extensively investigated, little is known about the etiology of viral-negative tumors. We performed targeted capture and massively parallel DNA sequencing of 619 cancer genes to compare the gene mutations and copy number alterations in MCV-positive (n = 13) and -negative (n = 21) MCC tumors and cell lines. We found that MCV-positive tumors displayed very low mutation rates, but MCV-negative tumors exhibited a high mutation burden associated with a UV-induced DNA damage signature. All viral-negative tumors harbored mutations in RB1, TP53, and a high frequency of mutations in NOTCH1 and FAT1. Additional mutated or amplified cancer genes of potential clinical importance included PI3K (PIK3CA, AKT1, PIK3CG) and MAPK (HRAS, NF1) pathway members and the receptor tyrosine kinase FGFR2. Furthermore, looking ahead to potential therapeutic strategies encompassing immune checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-L1, we also assessed the status of T-cell–infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and PD-L1 in MCC tumors. A subset of viral-negative tumors exhibited high TILs and PD-L1 expression, corresponding with the higher mutation load within these cancers. Taken together, this study provides new insights into the underlying biology of viral-negative MCC and paves the road for further investigation into new treatment opportunities. Cancer Res; 75(24); 5228–34. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Membrane IL1α Inhibits the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Promoting T- and NK-cell Activation
Authors: Lin Dandan , Lei Lei , Liu Yonghao , Zhang Yinsheng , Hu Bo , Bao Guangming , Song Yuan , Jin Ziqi , Liu Chunliang , Mei Yu , Sandikin Dedy , Wu Yan , Zhao Lixiang , Yu Xiao , Liu Haiyan
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a worldwide health problem with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Inflammation associated with liver injury and hepatocyte regeneration can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually, hepatocellular carcinoma. IL1α is one of the most important inflammatory cytokines involved in inflammation and tumor development. IL1α presents as multiple forms in vivo, including precursor, propiece, membrane, and secreted forms, and their functions have been thought to be different. The role of membrane IL1α in hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis is still not clear. Here, we examined the functions of membrane IL1α in murine hepatocellular carcinoma models. We found that membrane IL1α potently inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma tumor growth. Further studies showed that membrane IL1α promoted T- and natural killer (NK)–cell activation in vivo. IFNγ production by CD8+ T and NK cells was also increased as a result of membrane IL1α expression. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of the CTL and NK cells was also enhanced by membrane IL1α expression. Furthermore, in vitro studies demonstrated that membrane IL1α could directly activate T cells and NK cells in a cell contact–dependent manner. Conversely, depletion of both CD8+ T and NK cells suppressed the antitumor activity of membrane IL1α. Our studies demonstrated that membrane IL1α could promote antitumor immune responses through activation of T and NK cells. Thus, our findings provide new insights of IL1α functions during hepatocellular carcinoma development. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3179–88. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Glioblastomas Require Integrin αvβ3/PAK4 Signaling to Escape Senescence
Authors: Franovic Aleksandra , Elliott Kathryn C. , Seguin Laetitia , Camargo M. Fernanda , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Integrin αvβ3 has been implicated as a driver of aggressive and metastatic disease, and is upregulated during glioblastoma progression. Here, we demonstrate that integrin αvβ3 allows glioblastoma cells to counteract senescence through a novel tissue-specific effector mechanism involving recruitment and activation of the cytoskeletal regulatory kinase PAK4. Mechanistically, targeting either αvβ3 or PAK4 led to emergence of a p21-dependent, p53-independent cell senescence phenotype. Notably, glioblastoma cells did not exhibit a similar requirement for either other integrins or additional PAK family members. Moreover, αvβ3/PAK4 dependence was not found to be critical in epithelial cancers. Taken together, our findings established that glioblastomas are selectively addicted to this pathway as a strategy to evade oncogene-induced senescence, with implications that inhibiting the αvβ3–PAK4 signaling axis may offer novel therapeutic opportunities to target this aggressive cancer. Cancer Res; 75(21); 4466–73. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Is Regulated by β-Catenin/TCF and Promotes Radioresistance in Prostate Cancer Progenitor Cells
Authors: Cojoc Monica , Peitzsch Claudia , Kurth Ina , Trautmann Franziska , Kunz-Schughart Leoni A. , Telegeev Gennady D. , Stakhovsky Eduard A. , Walker John R. , Simin Karl , Lyle Stephen , Fuessel Susanne , Erdmann Kati , Wirth Manfred P. , Krause Mechthild , Baumann Michael , Dubrovska Anna
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Radiotherapy is a curative treatment option in prostate cancer. Nevertheless, patients with high-risk prostate cancer are prone to relapse. Identification of the predictive biomarkers and molecular mechanisms of radioresistance bears promise to improve cancer therapies. In this study, we show that aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity is indicative of radioresistant prostate progenitor cells with an enhanced DNA repair capacity and activation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Gene expression profiling of prostate cancer cells, their radioresistant derivatives, ALDH+ and ALDH− cell populations revealed the mechanisms, which link tumor progenitors to radioresistance, including activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. We found that expression of the ALDH1A1 gene is regulated by the WNT signaling pathway and co-occurs with expression of β-catenin in prostate tumor specimens. Inhibition of the WNT pathway led to a decrease in ALDH+ tumor progenitor population and to radiosensitization of cancer cells. Taken together, our results indicate that ALDH+ cells contribute to tumor radioresistance and their molecular targeting may enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy. Cancer Res; 75(7); 1482–94. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Peritoneal Dissemination Requires an Sp1-Dependent CXCR4/CXCL12 Signaling Axis and Extracellular Matrix–Directed Spheroid Formation
Authors: Kasagi Yuta , Harada Yui , Morodomi Yosuke , Iwai Toshiki , Saito Satoru , Yoshida Kumi , Oki Eiji , Saeki Hiroshi , Ohgaki Kippei , Sugiyama Masahiko , Onimaru Mitsuho , Maehara Yoshihiko , Yonemitsu Yoshikazu
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Peritonitis carcinomatosa is an advanced and intractable state of gastrointestinal and ovarian cancer, where mechanistic elucidation might enable the development of more effective therapies. Peritoneal dissemination of this type of malignancy has been generally thought to initiate from “milky spots” of primitive lymphoid tissues in the peritoneal cavity. In this study, we offer evidence challenging this idea, based on the finding that tumor implantation and directional dissemination was not required for the presence of milky spots, but rather SCF/CXCL12–expressing niche-like cells located at the border regions of perivascular adipose tissue. Interestingly, we found that peritoneal cavity lavage fluid, which specifically contains peritoneal collagen type IV and plasma fibronectin, dramatically facilitated spheroid formation of murine and human colon cancer cells. Spheroid formation strongly induced the expression of CXCR4 in an Sp1-dependent manner to promote niche-directed metastasis. Notably, disrupting sphere formation or inhibiting Sp1 activity was sufficient to suppress tumor dissemination and potentiated chemosensitivity to 5-fluorouracil. Our findings illuminate mechanisms of peritoneal cancer dissemination and highlight the Sp1/CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling axis as a rational target for the development of therapeutics to manage this intractable form of malignancy. Cancer Res; 76(2); 347–57. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Dual HER2 Targeting with Trastuzumab and Liposomal-Encapsulated Doxorubicin (MM-302) Demonstrates Synergistic Antitumor Activity in Breast and Gastric Cancer
Authors: Espelin Christopher W. , Leonard Shannon C. , Geretti Elena , Wickham Thomas J. , Hendriks Bart S.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Trastuzumab is the standard of care for HER2-positive breast cancer patients, markedly improving disease-free and overall survival. Combined with chemotherapy, it enhances patient outcomes, but cardiotoxicity due to the trastuzumab treatment poses a serious adverse effect. MM-302 is a HER2-targeted PEGylated liposome that encapsulates doxorubicin to facilitate its delivery to HER2-overexpressing tumor cells while limiting exposure to nontarget tissues, including the heart. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and preclinical activity of combining MM-302 with trastuzumab. MM-302 and trastuzumab target different domains of the HER2 receptor and thus could simultaneously bind HER2-overexpressing tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, trastuzumab did not disrupt the mechanism of action of MM-302 in delivering doxorubicin to the n0ucleus and inducing DNA damage. Reciprocally, MM-302 did not interfere with the ability of trastuzumab to block prosurvival p-Akt signaling. Interestingly, coadministration of the two agents acutely increased the deposition of MM-302 in human xenograft tumors and subsequently increased the expression of the DNA damage marker p-p53. Finally, the combination of MM-302 and trastuzumab induced synergistic antitumor activity in HER2-overexpressing xenograft models of breast and gastric cancer. Collectively, our findings highlight a novel combination therapy that efficiently targets HER2-overexpressing cells through multiple mechanisms and support the ongoing investigation of combined MM-302/trastuzumab therapy for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer in a randomized phase II clinical trial. Cancer Res; 76(6); 1517–27. ©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: March 2024

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 MFG-E8 Drives Melanoma Growth by Stimulating Mesenchymal Stromal Cell–Induced Angiogenesis and M2 Polarization of Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Yamada Kazuya , Uchiyama Akihiko , Uehara Akihito , Perera Buddhini , Ogino Sachiko , Yokoyama Yoko , Takeuchi Yuko , Udey Mark C. , Ishikawa Osamu , Motegi Sei-ichiro
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Secretion of the powerful angiogenic factor MFG-E8 by pericytes can bypass the therapeutic effects of anti-VEGF therapy, but the mechanisms by which MFG-E8 acts are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated how this factor acts to promote the growth of melanomas that express it. We found that mouse bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) expressed a substantial amount of MFG-E8. To assess its expression from this cell type, we implanted melanoma cells and MSC derived from wild type (WT) or MFG-E8 deficient [knockout (KO)] into mice and monitored tumor growth. Tumor growth and M2 macrophages were each attenuated in subjects coimplanted with KO-MSC compared with WT-MSC. In both xenograft tumors and clinical specimens of melanoma, we found that MFG-E8 expression was heightened near blood vessels where MSC could be found. Through in vitro assays, we confirmed that WT-MSC–conditioned medium was more potent at inducing M2 macrophage polarization, compared with KO-MSC–conditioned medium. VEGF and ET-1 expression in KO-MSC was significantly lower than in WT-MSC, correlating in vivo with reduced tumor growth and numbers of pericytes and M2 macrophages within tumors. Overall, our results suggested that MFG-E8 acts at two levels, by increasing VEGF and ET-1 expression in MSC and by enhancing M2 polarization of macrophages, to increase tumor angiogenesis. Cancer Res; 76(14); 4283–92. ©2016 AACR.
Data from BAFF and APRIL from Activin A–Treated Dendritic Cells Upregulate the Antitumor Efficacy of Dendritic Cells In Vivo
Authors: Shurin Michael R. , Ma Yang , Keskinov Anton A. , Zhao Ruijing , Lokshin Anna , Agassandian Marianna , Shurin Galina V.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The members of the TGFβ superfamily play a key role in regulating developmental and homeostasis programs by controlling differentiation, proliferation, polarization, and survival of different cell types. Although the role of TGFβ1 in inflammation and immunity is well evident, the contribution of other TGFβ family cytokines in the modulation of the antitumor immune response remains less documented. Here we show that activin A triggers SMAD2 and ERK1/2 pathways in dendritic cells (DC) expressing type I and II activin receptors, and upregulates production of the TNFα family cytokines BAFF (TALL-1, TNFSF13B) and APRIL (TALL-2, TNFSF13A), which is blocked by SMAD2 and ERK1/2 inhibitors, respectively. BAFF and APRIL derived from activin A–treated DCs upregulate proliferation and survival of T cells expressing the corresponding receptors, BAFF-R and TACI. In vivo, activin A–stimulated DCs demonstrate a significantly increased ability to induce tumor-specific CTLs and inhibit the growth of melanoma and lung carcinoma, which relies on DC-derived BAFF and APRIL, as knockdown of the BAFF and APRIL gene expression in activin A–treated DCs blocks augmentation of their antitumor potential. Although systemic administration of activin A, BAFF, or APRIL for the therapeutic purposes is not likely due to the pluripotent effects on malignant and nonmalignant cells, our data open a novel opportunity for improving the efficacy of DC vaccines. In fact, a significant augmentation of the antitumor activity of DC pretreated with activin A and the proven role of DC-derived BAFF and APRIL in the induction of antitumor immunity in vivo support this direction. Cancer Res; 76(17); 4959–69. ©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: March 2024

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 SOX4 Is Essential for Prostate Tumorigenesis Initiated by PTEN Ablation
Authors: Bilir Birdal , Osunkoya Adeboye O. , Wiles W. Guy , Sannigrahi Soma , Lefebvre Veronique , Metzger Daniel , Spyropoulos Demetri D. , Martin W. David , Moreno Carlos S.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Understanding remains incomplete of the mechanisms underlying initiation and progression of prostate cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American men. The transcription factor SOX4 is overexpressed in many human cancers, including prostate cancer, suggesting it may participate in prostate tumorigenesis. In this study, we investigated this possibility by genetically deleting Sox4 in a mouse model of prostate cancer initiated by loss of the tumor suppressor Pten. We found that specific homozygous deletion of Sox4 in the adult prostate epithelium strongly inhibited tumor progression initiated by homozygous loss of Pten. Mechanistically, Sox4 ablation reduced activation of AKT and β-catenin, leading to an attenuated invasive phenotype. Furthermore, SOX4 expression was induced by Pten loss as a result of the activation of PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling, suggesting a positive feedback loop between SOX4 and PI3K–AKT–mTOR activity. Collectively, our findings establish that SOX4 is a critical component of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway in prostate cancer, with potential implications for combination-targeted therapies against both primary and advanced prostate cancers. Cancer Res; 76(5); 1112–21. ©2015 AACR.