bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Visible Drug Delivery by Supramolecular Nanocarriers Directing to Single-Platformed Diagnosis and Therapy of Pancreatic Tumor Model
Authors: Kaida Sachiko , Cabral Horacio , Kumagai Michiaki , Kishimura Akihiro , Terada Yasuko , Sekino Masaki , Aoki Ichio , Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Tani Toru , Kataoka Kazunori
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Nanoparticle therapeutics are promising platforms for cancer therapy. However, it remains a formidable challenge to assess their distribution and clinical efficacy for therapeutic applications. Here, by using multifunctional polymeric micellar nanocarriers incorporating clinically approved gadolinium (Gd)–based magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents and platinum (Pt) anticancer drugs through reversible metal chelation of Pt, simultaneous imaging and therapy of an orthotopic animal model of intractable human pancreatic tumor was successfully performed without any serious toxicity. The strong tumor contrast enhancement achieved by the micelles correlated with the 24 times increase of r1 of the Gd chelates, the highest for the formulations using clinically approved Gd chelates reported to date. From the micro-synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence spectrometry scanning of the lesions, we confirmed that both the Gd chelates and Pt drugs delivered by the micelles selectively colocalized in the tumor interior. Our study provides new insights for the design of theranostic micelles with high contrast enhancement and site-specific clinical potential. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7031–41. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Chromatin Remodeling Is Required for Gene Reactivation after Decitabine-Mediated DNA Hypomethylation
Authors: Si Jiali , Boumber Yanis A. , Shu Jingmin , Qin Taichun , Ahmed Saira , He Rong , Jelinek Jaroslav , Issa Jean-Pierre J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The DNA hypomethylating drug decitabine (DAC) reactivates silenced gene expression in cancer and is approved for the treatment of the myelodysplastic syndrome. Gene reactivation after DAC is variable and incompletely understood. Here, we established a cell line system (YB5) derived from the SW48 colon cancer cell line to study DAC-induced reactivation. YB5 contains a hypermethylated cytomegalovirus promoter driving green fluorescent protein (GFP), and the locus is transcriptionally silent. GFP reexpression can be achieved by DAC treatment, but the expression level of individual cells is heterogeneous. DAC-treated YB5 cells were separated into GFP-positive and GFP-negative subpopulations. By comparing DAC-treated sorted GFP-positive and GFP-negative cells, we found that their methylation levels were similarly decreased but that histone modifications and histone H3 densities were remarkably different. Despite a similar degree of (incomplete) DNA hypomethylation, GFP-positive cells reverted to an active chromatin structure marked by higher H3K9 acetylation, lower H3K27 trimethylation, and lower promoter nucleosome density. GFP-negative cells had histone modifications and promoter nucleosome density, similar to parental cells. On DAC withdrawal, gradual resilencing and remethylation occurred in both GFP-positive and GFP-negative cells, and the resilencing correlated with a gradual increase in nucleosome occupancy in GFP-positive cells. These data show that hypomethylation alone after DAC is insufficient for gene expression induction, and that chromatin resetting to an active state including nucleosome eviction is required for activation of protein expression. Our findings suggest that gene expression is the key in optimizing DAC treatment strategies in the clinic. Cancer Res; 70(17); 6968–77. ©2010 AACR.
Data from DNA Damage Recognition via Activated ATM and p53 Pathway in Nonproliferating Human Prostate Tissue
Authors: Jäämaa Sari , af Hällström Taija M. , Sankila Anna , Rantanen Ville , Koistinen Hannu , Stenman Ulf-Håkan , Zhang Zhewei , Yang Zhiming , De Marzo Angelo M. , Taari Kimmo , Ruutu Mirja , Andersson Leif C. , Laiho Marikki
Published: March 2024

Abstract
DNA damage response (DDR) pathways have been extensively studied in cancer cell lines and mouse models, but little is known about how DNA damage is recognized by different cell types in nonmalignant, slowly replicating human tissues. Here, we assess, using ex vivo cultures of human prostate tissue, DDR caused by cytotoxic drugs (camptothecin, doxorubicin, etoposide, and cisplatin) and ionizing radiation (IR) in the context of normal tissue architecture. Using specific markers for basal and luminal epithelial cells, we determine and quantify cell compartment–specific damage recognition. IR, doxorubicin, and etoposide induced the phosphorylation of H2A.X on Ser139 (γH2AX) and DNA damage foci formation. Surprisingly, luminal epithelial cells lack the prominent γH2AX response after IR when compared with basal cells, although ATM phosphorylation on Ser1981 and 53BP1 foci were clearly detectable in both cell types. The attenuated γH2AX response seems to result from low levels of total H2A.X in the luminal cells. Marked increase in p53, a downstream target of the activated ATM pathway, was detected only in response to camptothecin and doxorubicin. These findings emphasize the diversity of pathways activated by DNA damage in slowly replicating tissues and reveal an unexpected deviation in the prostate luminal compartment that may be relevant in prostate tumorigenesis. Detailed mapping of tissue and cell type differences in DDR will provide an outlook of relevant responses to therapeutic strategies. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8630–41. ©2010 AACR.
Data from In silico Modeling and In vivo Efficacy of Cancer-Preventive Vaccinations
Authors: Palladini Arianna , Nicoletti Giordano , Pappalardo Francesco , Murgo Annalisa , Grosso Valentina , Stivani Valeria , Ianzano Marianna L. , Antognoli Agnese , Croci Stefania , Landuzzi Lorena , De Giovanni Carla , Nanni Patrizia , Motta Santo , Lollini Pier-Luigi
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer vaccine feasibility would benefit from reducing the number and duration of vaccinations without diminishing efficacy. However, the duration of in vivo studies and the huge number of possible variations in vaccination protocols have discouraged their optimization. In this study, we employed an established mouse model of preventive vaccination using HER-2/neu transgenic mice (BALB-neuT) to validate in silico–designed protocols that reduce the number of vaccinations and optimize efficacy. With biological training, the in silico model captured the overall in vivo behavior and highlighted certain critical issues. First, although vaccinations could be reduced in number without sacrificing efficacy, the intensity of early vaccinations was a key determinant of long-term tumor prevention needed for predictive utility in the model. Second, after vaccinations ended, older mice exhibited more rapid tumor onset and sharper decline in antibody levels than young mice, emphasizing immune aging as a key variable in models of vaccine protocols for elderly individuals. Long-term studies confirmed predictions of in silico modeling in which an immune plateau phase, once reached, could be maintained with a reduced number of vaccinations. Furthermore, that rapid priming in young mice is required for long-term antitumor protection, and that the accuracy of mathematical modeling of early immune responses is critical. Finally, that the design and modeling of cancer vaccines and vaccination protocols must take into account the progressive aging of the immune system, by striving to boost immune responses in elderly hosts. Our results show that an integrated in vivo–in silico approach could improve both mathematical and biological models of cancer immunoprevention. Cancer Res; 70(20); 7755–63. ©2010 AACR.
Data from AXL Is an Essential Factor and Therapeutic Target for Metastatic Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Rankin Erinn B. , Fuh Katherine C. , Taylor Tiffany E. , Krieg Adam J. , Musser Margaret , Yuan Jenny , Wei Kevin , Kuo Calvin J. , Longacre Teri A. , Giaccia Amato J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is thought to play a role in metastasis; however, the therapeutic efficacy of an AXL-targeting agent remains largely untested in metastatic disease. In this study, we defined AXL as a therapeutic target for metastatic ovarian cancer. AXL is primarily expressed in metastases and advanced-stage human ovarian tumors but not in normal ovarian epithelium. Genetic inhibition of AXL in human metastatic ovarian tumor cells is sufficient to prevent the initiation of metastatic disease in vivo. Mechanistically, inhibition of AXL signaling in animals with metastatic disease results in decreased invasion and matrix metalloproteinase activity. Most importantly, soluble human AXL receptors that imposed a specific blockade of the GAS6/AXL pathway had a profound inhibitory effect on progression of established metastatic ovarian cancer without normal tissue toxicity. These results offer the first genetic validation of GAS6/AXL targeting as an effective strategy for inhibition of metastatic tumor progression in vivo. Furthermore, this study defines the soluble AXL receptor as a therapeutic candidate agent for treatment of metastatic ovarian cancer, for which current therapies are ineffective. Cancer Res; 70(19); 7570–9. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Selective Killing of Tumor Neovasculature Paradoxically Improves Chemotherapy Delivery to Tumors
Authors: Escorcia Freddy E. , Henke Erik , McDevitt Michael R. , Villa Carlos H. , Smith-Jones Peter , Blasberg Ronald G. , Benezra Robert , Scheinberg David A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Antiangiogenic therapies are frequently used with concomitantly administered cancer chemotherapy to improve outcomes, but the mechanism for the benefit of the combination is uncertain. We describe a mechanism by which a specific, cytotoxic antivascular agent causes vascular remodeling and improved chemotherapy results. By selectively killing tumor neovasculature using short-ranged α-particles targeted to vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin on vascular endothelial cells (by use of 225Ac-labeled E4G10 antibody) we were able both to reduce tumor growth and to increase the efficacy of chemotherapy, an effect seen only when the chemotherapy was administered several days after the vascular targeting agent, but not if the order of administration was reversed. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence studies showed that the vasculature of 225Ac-E4G10–treated tumors was substantially depleted; the remaining vessels appeared more mature morphologically and displayed increased pericyte density and coverage. Tumor uptake and microdistribution studies with radioactive and fluorescent small molecule drugs showed better accumulation and more homogenous distribution of the drugs within 225Ac-E4G10–treated tumors. These results show that 225Ac-E4G10 treatment leads to ablation and improvement of the tumor vascular architecture, and also show that the resulting vascular remodeling can increase tumor delivery of small molecules, thus providing a process for the improved outcomes observed after combining antivascular therapy and chemotherapy. This study directly shows evidence for what has long been a speculated mechanism for antiangiogenic therapies. Moreover, targeting the vessel for killing provides an alternative mode of improving chemotherapy delivery and efficacy, potentially avoiding some of the drawbacks of targeting a highly redundant angiogenic pathway. Cancer Res; 70(22); 9277–86. ©2010 AACR.
Data from The Telomerase Inhibitor Imetelstat Depletes Cancer Stem Cells in Breast and Pancreatic Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Joseph Immanual , Tressler Robert , Bassett Ekaterina , Harley Calvin , Buseman Christen M. , Pattamatta Preeti , Wright Woodring E. , Shay Jerry W. , Go Ning F.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are rare drug-resistant cancer cell subsets proposed to be responsible for the maintenance and recurrence of cancer and metastasis. Telomerase is constitutively active in both bulk tumor cell and CSC populations but has only limited expression in normal tissues. Thus, inhibition of telomerase has been shown to be a viable approach in controlling cancer growth in nonclinical studies and is currently in phase II clinical trials. In this study, we investigated the effects of imetelstat (GRN163L), a potent telomerase inhibitor, on both the bulk cancer cells and putative CSCs. When breast and pancreatic cancer cell lines were treated with imetelstat in vitro, telomerase activity in the bulk tumor cells and CSC subpopulations were inhibited. Additionally, imetelstat treatment reduced the CSC fractions present in the breast and pancreatic cell lines. In vitro treatment with imetelstat, but not control oligonucleotides, also reduced the proliferation and self-renewal potential of MCF7 mammospheres and resulted in cell death after <4 weeks of treatment. In vitro treatment of PANC1 cells showed reduced tumor engraftment in nude mice, concomitant with a reduction in the CSC levels. Differences between telomerase activity expression levels or telomere length of CSCs and bulk tumor cells in these cell lines did not correlate with the increased sensitivity of CSCs to imetelstat, suggesting a mechanism of action independent of telomere shortening for the effects of imetelstat on the CSC subpopulations. Our results suggest that imetelstat-mediated depletion of CSCs may offer an alternative mechanism by which telomerase inhibition may be exploited for cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 70(22); 9494–504. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Activity of the Novel Dual Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Inhibitor NVP-BEZ235 against T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Chiarini Francesca , Grimaldi Cecilia , Ricci Francesca , Tazzari Pier Luigi , Evangelisti Camilla , Ognibene Andrea , Battistelli Michela , Falcieri Elisabetta , Melchionda Fraia , Pession Andrea , Pagliaro Pasqualepaolo , McCubrey James A. , Martelli Alberto M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Recent findings have highlighted that constitutively active phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is a common feature of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), where it upregulates cell proliferation, survival, and drug resistance. These observations lend compelling weight to the application of PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitors in the therapy of T-ALL. Here, we have analyzed the therapeutic potential of the novel dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor NVP-BEZ235, an orally bioavailable imidazoquinoline derivative, which has entered clinical trials for solid tumors, on both T-ALL cell lines and patient samples. NVP-BEZ235 was cytotoxic to a panel of T-ALL cell lines as determined by MTT assays. NVP-BEZ235 treatment resulted in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Western blots showed a dose- and time-dependent dephosphorylation of Akt and mTORC1 downstream targets in response to NVP-BEZ235. Remarkably, NVP-BEZ235 targeted the side population of both T-ALL cell lines and patient lymphoblasts, which might correspond to leukemia-initiating cells, and synergized with chemotherapeutic agents (cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, dexamethasone) currently used for treating T-ALL patients. NVP-BEZ235 reduced chemoresistance to vincristine induced in Jurkat cells by coculturing with MS-5 stromal cells, which mimic the bone marrow microenvironment. NVP-BEZ235 was cytotoxic to T-ALL patient lymphoblasts displaying pathway activation, where the drug dephosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1, at variance with rapamycin. Taken together, our findings indicate that longitudinal inhibition at two nodes of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR network with NVP-BEZ235, either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs, may be an efficient treatment of those T-ALLs that have aberrant upregulation of this signaling pathway for their proliferation and survival. Cancer Res; 70(20); 8097–107. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Nongenomic Effects of Cisplatin: Acute Inhibition of Mechanosensitive Transporters and Channels without Actin Remodeling
Authors: Milosavljevic Nina , Duranton Christophe , Djerbi Nadir , Puech Pierre Henri , Gounon Pierre , Lagadic-Gossmann Dominique , Dimanche-Boitrel Marie Thérèse , Rauch Cyril , Tauc Michel , Counillon Laurent , Poët Mallorie
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cisplatin is an antineoplastic drug, mostly documented to cause cell death through the formation of DNA adducts. In patients, it exhibits a range of short-term side effects that are unlikely to be related to its genomic action. As cisplatin has been shown to modify membrane properties in different cell systems, we investigated its effects on mechanosensitive ion transporters and channels. We show here that cisplatin is a noncompetitive inhibitor of the mechanosensitive Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1, with a half-inhibition concentration of 30 μg/mL associated with a decrease in Vmax and Hill coefficient. We also showed that it blocks the Cl− and K+ mechanosensitive channels VSORC and TREK-1 at similar concentrations. In contrast, the nonmechanosensitive Cl− and K+ channels CFTR and TASK-1 and the Na+-coupled glucose transport, which share functional features with VSORC, TREK-1, and NHE-1, respectively, were insensitive to cisplatin. We next investigated whether cisplatin action was due to a direct effect on membrane or to cortical actin remodeling that would affect mechanosensors. Using scanning electron microscopy, in vivo actin labeling, and atomic force microscopy, we did not observe any modification of the Young's modulus and actin cytoskeleton for up to 60 and 120 μg/mL cisplatin, whereas these concentrations modified membrane morphology. Our results reveal a novel mechanism for cisplatin, which affects mechanosensitive channels and transporters involved in cell fate programs and/or expressed in mechanosensitive organs in which cisplatin elicits strong secondary effects, such as the inner ear or the peripheral nervous system. These results might constitute a common denominator to previously unrelated effects of this drug. Cancer Res; 70(19); 7514–22. ©2010 AACR.
Data from NEDD8-Targeting Drug MLN4924 Elicits DNA Rereplication by Stabilizing Cdt1 in S Phase, Triggering Checkpoint Activation, Apoptosis, and Senescence in Cancer Cells
Authors: Lin Jie Jessie , Milhollen Michael A. , Smith Peter G. , Narayanan Usha , Dutta Anindya
Published: March 2024

Abstract
MLN4924 is a first-in-class experimental cancer drug that inhibits the NEDD8-activating enzyme, thereby inhibiting cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligases and stabilizing many cullin substrates. The mechanism by which MLN4924 inhibits cancer cell proliferation has not been defined, although it is accompanied by DNA rereplication and attendant DNA damage. Here we show that stabilization of the DNA replication factor Cdt1, a substrate of cullins 1 and 4, is critical for MLN4924 to trigger DNA rereplication and inhibit cell proliferation. Even only 1 hour of exposure to MLN4924, which was sufficient to elevate Cdt1 for 4–5 hours, was found to be sufficient to induce DNA rereplication and to activate apoptosis and senescence pathways. Cells in S phase were most susceptible, suggesting that MLN4924 will be most toxic on highly proliferating cancers. Although MLN4924-induced cell senescence seems to be dependent on induction of p53 and its downstream effector p21Waf1, we found that p53−/− and p21−/− cells were even more susceptible than wild-type cells to MLN4924. Our results suggested that apoptosis, not senescence, might be more important for the antiproliferative effect of MLN4924. Furthermore, our findings show that transient exposure to this new investigational drug should be useful for controlling p53-negative cancer cells, which often pose significant clinical challenge. Cancer Res; 70(24); 10310–20. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Role of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 3 in Human Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hirata Hiroshi , Hinoda Yuji , Ueno Koji , Majid Shahana , Saini Sharanjot , Dahiya Rajvir
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The secreted frizzled-related protein (sFRP) family plays an important role in the inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway in various cancers. The functional significance of Wnt antagonist sFRP3 has not been investigated in renal cancer. We performed tissue microarray and found that the level of sFRP3 protein was high in normal kidney, low in primary renal cancer tissues, and high in metastatic renal cancer tissues. Therefore, we hypothesized that sFRP3 may play an important role in metastatic renal cancer. To test this hypothesis, we performed a series of experiments to determine the role of sFRP3 using primary and metastatic renal cancer cell lines. Functional analysis showed increased numbers of viable and invaded cells and tube formation and decreased numbers of apoptotic cells in the sFRP3-transfected renal cancer cell line A498. Promotion of tumor growth was also observed in nude mice injected with sFRP3-transfected A498 cells. In contrast, the number of viable cells and invasive cells was decreased in sFRP3 mRNA knockdown metastatic cells (ACHN and Hs891.T). To investigate the mechanism of sFRP3 function, we performed microarray analysis to see which genes were upregulated or downregulated by sFRP3 expression. Among these genes, MMP-3 and ANGPT1 were significantly upregulated in sFRP3-transfected cells. In conclusion, this is the first report to show that sFRP3 expression promotes cell growth, invasion, and inhibition of apoptosis in renal cancer cells. Cancer Res; 70(5); 1896–905
Data from The AC133 Epitope, but not the CD133 Protein, Is Lost upon Cancer Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Kemper Kristel , Sprick Martin R. , de Bree Martijn , Scopelliti Alessandro , Vermeulen Louis , Hoek Maarten , Zeilstra Jurrit , Pals Steven T. , Mehmet Huseyin , Stassi Giorgio , Medema Jan Paul
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Colon cancer stem cells (CSC) can be identified with AC133, an antibody that detects an epitope on CD133. However, recent evidence suggests that expression of CD133 is not restricted to CSCs, but is also expressed on differentiated tumor cells. Intriguingly, we observed that detection of the AC133 epitope on the cell surface decreased upon differentiation of CSC in a manner that correlated with loss of clonogenicity. However, this event did not coincide with a change in CD133 promoter activity, mRNA, splice variant, protein expression, or even cell surface expression of CD133. In contrast, we noted that with CSC differentiation, a change occured in CD133 glycosylation. Thus, AC133 may detect a glycosylated epitope, or differential glycosylation may cause CD133 to be retained inside the cell. We found that AC133 could effectively detect CD133 glycosylation mutants or bacterially expressed unglycosylated CD133. Moreover, cell surface biotinylation experiments revealed that differentially glycosylated CD133 could be detected on the membrane of differentiated tumor cells. Taken together, our results argue that CD133 is a cell surface molecule that is expressed on both CSC and differentiated tumor cells, but is probably differentially folded as a result of differential glycosylation to mask specific epitopes. In summary, we conclude that AC133 can be used to detect cancer stem cells, but that results from the use of this antibody should be interpreted with caution. Cancer Res; 70(2); 719–29
Data from Integrated Profiling Reveals a Global Correlation between Epigenetic and Genetic Alterations in Mesothelioma
Authors: Christensen Brock C. , Houseman E. Andres , Poage Graham M. , Godleski John J. , Bueno Raphael , Sugarbaker David J. , Wiencke John K. , Nelson Heather H. , Marsit Carmen J. , Kelsey Karl T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Development of mesothelioma is linked mainly to asbestos exposure, but the combined contributions of genetic and epigenetic alterations are unclear. We investigated the potential relationships between gene copy number (CN) alterations and DNA methylation profiles in a case series of pleural mesotheliomas (n = 23). There were no instances of significantly correlated CN alteration and methylation at probed loci, whereas averaging loci over their associated genes revealed only two genes with significantly correlated CN and methylation alterations. In contrast to the lack of discrete correlations, the overall extent of tumor CN alteration was significantly associated with DNA methylation profile when comparing CN alteration extent among methylation profile classes. Further, there was evidence that this association was partially attributable to prevalent allele loss at the DNA methyltransferase gene DNMT1. Our findings define a strong association between global genetic and global epigenetic dysregulation in mesothelioma, rather than a discrete, local coordination of gene inactivation. Cancer Res; 70(14); 5686–94. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Identification of Optimal Drug Combinations Targeting Cellular Networks: Integrating Phospho-Proteomics and Computational Network Analysis
Authors: Iadevaia Sergio , Lu Yiling , Morales Fabiana C. , Mills Gordon B. , Ram Prahlad T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Targeted therapeutics hold tremendous promise in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. However, targeting proteins individually can be compensated for by bypass mechanisms and activation of regulatory loops. Designing optimal therapeutic combinations must therefore take into consideration the complex dynamic networks in the cell. In this study, we analyzed the insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) signaling network in the MDA-MB231 breast cancer cell line. We used reverse-phase protein array to measure the transient changes in the phosphorylation of proteins after IGF-1 stimulation. We developed a computational procedure that integrated mass action modeling with particle swarm optimization to train the model against the experimental data and infer the unknown model parameters. The trained model was used to predict how targeting individual signaling proteins altered the rest of the network and identify drug combinations that minimally increased phosphorylation of other proteins elsewhere in the network. Experimental testing of the modeling predictions showed that optimal drug combinations inhibited cell signaling and proliferation, whereas nonoptimal combination of inhibitors increased phosphorylation of nontargeted proteins and rescued cells from cell death. The integrative approach described here is useful for generating experimental intervention strategies that could optimize drug combinations and discover novel pharmacologic targets for cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 70(17); 6704–14. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Tumorigenic and Metastatic Activity of Human Thyroid Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Todaro Matilde , Iovino Flora , Eterno Vincenzo , Cammareri Patrizia , Gambara Guido , Espina Virginia , Gulotta Gaspare , Dieli Francesco , Giordano Silvia , De Maria Ruggero , Stassi Giorgio
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Thyroid carcinoma is the most common endocrine malignancy and the first cause of death among endocrine cancers. We show that the tumorigenic capacity in thyroid cancer is confined in a small subpopulation of stem-like cells with high aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDHhigh) activity and unlimited replication potential. ALDHhigh cells can be expanded indefinitely in vitro as tumor spheres, which retain the tumorigenic potential upon delivery in immunocompromised mice. Orthotopic injection of minute numbers of thyroid cancer stem cells recapitulates the behavior of the parental tumor, including the aggressive metastatic features of undifferentiated thyroid carcinomas, which are sustained by constitutive activation of cMet and Akt in thyroid cancer stem cells. The identification of tumorigenic and metastagenic thyroid cancer cells may provide unprecedented preclinical tools for development and preclinical validation of novel targeted therapies. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8874–85. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Cancer Biomarkers Defined by Autoantibody Signatures to Aberrant O-Glycopeptide Epitopes
Authors: Wandall Hans H. , Blixt Ola , Tarp Mads A. , Pedersen Johannes W. , Bennett Eric P. , Mandel Ulla , Ragupathi Govind , Livingston Phil O. , Hollingsworth Michael A. , Taylor-Papadimitriou Joyce , Burchell Joy , Clausen Henrik
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Autoantibodies to cancer antigens hold promise as biomarkers for early detection of cancer. Proteins that are aberrantly processed in cancer cells are likely to present autoantibody targets. The extracellular mucin MUC1 is overexpressed and aberrantly glycosylated in many cancers; thus, we evaluated whether autoantibodies generated to aberrant O-glycoforms of MUC1 might serve as sensitive diagnostic biomarkers for cancer. Using an antibody-based glycoprofiling ELISA assay, we documented that aberrant truncated glycoforms were not detected in sera of cancer patients. An O-glycopeptide microarray was developed that detected IgG antibodies to aberrant O-glycopeptide epitopes in patients vaccinated with a keyhole limpet hemocyanin–conjugated truncated MUC1 peptide. We detected cancer-associated IgG autoantibodies in sera from breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer patients against different aberrent O-glycopeptide epitopes derived from MUC1. These autoantibodies represent a previously unaddressed source of sensitive biomarkers for early detection of cancer. The methods we have developed for chemoenzymatic synthesis of O-glycopeptides on microarrays may allow for broader mining of the entire cancer O-glycopeptidome. Cancer Res; 70(4); 1306–13
Data from IFNγ Markedly Cooperates with Intratumoral Dendritic Cell Vaccine in Dog Tumor Models
Authors: Mito Kai , Sugiura Kikuya , Ueda Kana , Hori Takako , Akazawa Takashi , Yamate Jyoji , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Hatoya Shingo , Inaba Muneo , Inoue Norimitsu , Ikehara Susumu , Inaba Toshio
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)–based immunotherapy can trigger effective immune responses against cancer in human patients. Although accompanied by little toxicity, further improvements are needed to optimize immune responses for fully satisfactory clinical outcomes. IFNγ, a potent inducer of T helper type 1 immune responses, is considered an important tool to realize improvements. In this study, we sought to clarify the effect of IFNγ on the maturation and activation of DCs and the clinical outcome of DC-based cancer therapy in dogs. In vitro experiments indicated that IFNγ significantly enhanced the expression of immune stimulatory molecules and interleukin-12 by DCs derived from canine monocytes. IFNγ also significantly strengthened DC-mediated growth suppression against tumor cell lines. DC inoculation with concomitant delivery of IFNγ into primary or recurrent tumors elicited significant clinical responses, including four complete responses and two partial responses against malignant tumors, also eliciting partial responses against benign but actively growing tumors. Together, our results indicate that combining IFNγ and DCs could induce strong immune responses against tumors, significantly improving clinical outcomes. The present study of dogs bearing common types of cancer in humans offers a unique line of support for the development of human cancer therapies. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7093–101. ©2010 AACR.
Data from FTY720 (Fingolimod) Sensitizes Prostate Cancer Cells to Radiotherapy by Inhibition of Sphingosine Kinase-1
Authors: Pchejetski Dmitri , Bohler Torsten , Brizuela Leyre , Sauer Lysann , Doumerc Nicolas , Golzio Muriel , Salunkhe Vishal , Teissié Justin , Malavaud Bernard , Waxman Jonathan , Cuvillier Olivier
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Radiotherapy is widely used as a radical treatment for prostate cancer, but curative treatments are elusive for poorly differentiated tumors where survival is just 15% at 15 years. Dose escalation improves local response rates but is limited by tolerance in normal tissues. A sphingosine analogue, FTY720 (fingolimod), a drug currently in phase III studies for treatment of multiple sclerosis, has been found to be a potent apoptosis inducer in prostate cancer cells. Using in vitro and in vivo approaches, we analyzed the impact of FTY720 on sphingolipid metabolism in hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer cells and evaluated its potential as a radiosensitizer on cell lines and prostate tumor xenografts. In prostate cancer cell lines, FTY720 acted as a sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) inhibitor that induced prostate cancer cell apoptosis in a manner independent of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors. In contrast, γ irradiation did not affect SphK1 activity in prostate cancer cells yet synergized with FTY720 to inhibit SphK1. In mice bearing orthotopic or s.c. prostate cancer tumors, we show that FTY720 dramatically increased radiotherapeutic sensitivity, reducing tumor growth and metastasis without toxic side effects. Our findings suggest that low, well-tolerated doses of FTY720 could offer significant improvement to the clinical treatment of prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 70(21); 8651–61. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Increased Immunogenicity of Tumor-Associated Antigen, Mucin 1, Engineered to Express α-Gal Epitopes: A Novel Approach to Immunotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Deguchi Takashi , Tanemura Masahiro , Miyoshi Eiji , Nagano Hiroaki , Machida Tomohiko , Ohmura Yoshiaki , Kobayashi Shogo , Marubashi Shigeru , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Takeda Yutaka , Ito Toshinori , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro , Sawa Yoshiki
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Mucin 1 (MUC1), a bound mucin glycoprotein, is overexpressed and aberrantly glycosylated in >80% of human ductal pancreatic carcinoma. Evidence suggests that MUC1 can be used as a tumor marker and is a potential target for immunotherapy of pancreatic cancer. However, vaccination with MUC1 peptides fails to stimulate the immune response against cancer cells because immunity toward tumor-associated antigens (TAA), including MUC1, in cancer patients is relatively weak, and the presentation of these TAAs to the immune system is poor due to their low immunogenicity. We investigated whether vaccination with immunogenetically enhanced MUC1 (by expressing α-gal epitopes; Galα1-3Galβ1-4GlcNAc-R) can elicit effective antibody production for MUC1 itself as well as certain TAAs derived from pancreatic cancer cells and induced tumor-specific T-cell responses. We also used α1,3galactosyltransferase (α1,3GT) knockout mice that were preimmunized with pig kidney and transplanted with B16F10 melanoma cells transfected with MUC1 expression vector. Vaccination of these mice with α-gal MUC1 resulted in marked inhibition of tumor growth and significant improvement of overall survival time compared with mice vaccinated with MUC1 alone (P = 0.003). Furthermore, vaccination with pancreatic cancer cells expressing α-gal epitopes induced immune responses against not only differentiated cancer cells but also cancer stem cells. The results suggested that vaccination using cells engineered to express α-gal epitopes is a novel strategy for treatment of pancreatic cancer. Cancer Res; 70(13); 5259–69. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Exon-Based Clustering of Murine Breast Tumor Transcriptomes Reveals Alternative Exons Whose Expression Is Associated with Metastasis
Authors: Dutertre Martin , Lacroix-Triki Magali , Driouch Keltouma , de la Grange Pierre , Gratadou Lise , Beck Samantha , Millevoi Stefania , Tazi Jamal , Lidereau Rosette , Vagner Stephan , Auboeuf Didier
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the field of bioinformatics, exon profiling is a developing area of disease-associated transcriptome analysis. In this study, we performed a microarray-based transcriptome analysis at the single exon level in mouse 4T1 primary mammary tumors with different metastatic capabilities. A novel bioinformatics platform was developed that identified 679 genes with differentially expressed exons in 4T1 tumors, many of which were involved in cell morphology and movement. Of 152 alternative exons tested by reverse transcription-PCR, 97 were validated as differentially expressed in primary tumors with different metastatic capability. This analysis revealed candidate progression genes, hinting at variations in protein functions by alternate exon usage. In a parallel effort, we developed a novel exon-based clustering analysis and identified alternative exons in tumor transcriptomes that were associated with dissemination of primary tumor cells to sites of pulmonary metastasis. This analysis also revealed that the splicing events identified by comparing primary tumors were not aberrant events. Lastly, we found that a subset of differentially spliced variant transcripts identified in the murine model was associated with poor prognosis in a large clinical cohort of patients with breast cancer. Our findings illustrate the utility of exon profiling to define novel theranostic markers for study in cancer progression and metastasis. Cancer Res; 70(3); 896–905
Data from Plasma Micronutrients and the Acquisition and Clearance of Anal Human Papillomavirus Infection: The Hawaii HPV Cohort Study
Authors: Shvetsov Yurii B. , Hernandez Brenda Y. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Thompson Pamela J. , Franke Adrian A. , Zhu Xuemei , Goodman Marc T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Anal human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is common among women and the cause of most anal malignancies. The incidence of anal cancer has been increasing among U.S. women, yet few cofactors for the natural history of anal HPV infection have been identified. We examined the hypothesis that plasma carotenoid, retinol, and tocopherol concentrations are associated with the acquisition and clearance of anal HPV infection in a cohort of 279 Hawaiian residents followed at 4-month intervals for a mean duration of 16 months. At each visit, interviews were conducted and biological specimens were obtained, including anal cell specimens for HPV DNA detection and genotyping, and a fasting blood sample to measure 27 micronutrients. Cohort participants acquired 189 anal HPV infections, 113 of which cleared during the study period. The most frequently acquired HPV genotypes were HPV-52, -53, -84, and -16. Women in the highest quartile of trans-zeaxanthin, trans -anhydro-lutein, and trans-, cis-, and total β-carotene had significant 43% to 50% reduction in the risk of acquisition of any HPV infection compared with women in the lowest quartile. Few associations were observed between micronutrient levels and clearance of transient (≤150 days) anal HPV infections. However, clearance of persistent (>150 days) infections was associated with higher levels of β-tocopherol + γ-tocopherol and lower levels of carotenoids and retinol. Our findings suggest that several carotenoids can reduce the risk and clearance of anal HPV infections that contribute to anal cancer. Cancer Res; 70(23); 9787–97. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Brick1 Is an Essential Regulator of Actin Cytoskeleton Required for Embryonic Development and Cell Transformation
Authors: Escobar Beatriz , de Cárcer Guillermo , Fernández-Miranda Gonzalo , Cascón Alberto , Bravo-Cordero José J. , Montoya María C. , Robledo Mercedes , Cañamero Marta , Malumbres Marcos
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Brick1 (Brk1) is the less-studied component of the Wave/Scar pathway involved in the branched nucleation of actin fibers. The clinical relevance of Brk1 is emphasized by correlative data showing that Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) patients that also lose the BRK1 gene are protected against the development of tumors. This contrasts with recent evidence suggesting that the Wave complex may function as an invasion suppressor in epithelial cancers. Here, we show that the downregulation of Brk1 results in abnormal actin stress fiber formation and vinculin distribution and loss of Arp2/3 and Wave proteins at the cellular protrusions. Brk1 is required for cell proliferation and cell transformation by oncogenes. In addition, Brk1 downregulation results in defective directional migration and invasive growth in renal cell carcinoma cells as well as in other tumor cell types. Finally, genetic ablation of Brk1 results in dramatic defects in embryo compaction and development, suggesting an essential role for this protein in actin dynamics. Thus, genetic loss or inhibition of BRK1 is likely to be protective against tumor development due to proliferation and motility defects in affected cells. Cancer Res; 70(22); 9349–59. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Beyond Rapalog Therapy: Preclinical Pharmacology and Antitumor Activity of WYE-125132, an ATP-Competitive and Specific Inhibitor of mTORC1 and mTORC2
Authors: Yu Ker , Shi Celine , Toral-Barza Lourdes , Lucas Judy , Shor Boris , Kim Jae Eun , Zhang Wei-Guo , Mahoney Robert , Gaydos Christine , Tardio LuAnna , Kim Sung Kyoo , Conant Roger , Curran Kevin , Kaplan Joshua , Verheijen Jeroen , Ayral-Kaloustian Semiramis , Mansour Tarek S. , Abraham Robert T. , Zask Arie , Gibbons James J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a major component of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway that is dysregulated in 50% of all human malignancies. Rapamycin and its analogues (rapalogs) partially inhibit mTOR through allosteric binding to mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) but not mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2), an emerging player in cancer. Here, we report WYE-125132 (WYE-132), a highly potent, ATP-competitive, and specific mTOR kinase inhibitor (IC50: 0.19 ± 0.07 nmol/L; >5,000-fold selective versus PI3Ks). WYE-132 inhibited mTORC1 and mTORC2 in diverse cancer models in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, consistent with genetic ablation of mTORC2, WYE-132 targeted P-AKT(S473) and AKT function without significantly reducing the steady-state level of the PI3K/PDK1 activity biomarker P-AKT(T308), highlighting a prominent and direct regulation of AKT by mTORC2 in cancer cells. Compared with the rapalog temsirolimus/CCI-779, WYE-132 elicited a substantially stronger inhibition of cancer cell growth and survival, protein synthesis, cell size, bioenergetic metabolism, and adaptation to hypoxia. Oral administration of WYE-132 to tumor-bearing mice showed potent single-agent antitumor activity against MDA361 breast, U87MG glioma, A549 and H1975 lung, as well as A498 and 786-O renal tumors. An optimal dose of WYE-132 achieved a substantial regression of MDA361 and A549 large tumors and caused complete regression of A498 large tumors when coadministered with bevacizumab. Our results further validate mTOR as a critical driver for tumor growth, establish WYE-132 as a potent and profound anticancer agent, and provide a strong rationale for clinical development of specific mTOR kinase inhibitors as new cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 70(2); 621–31
Data from ASNA-1 Activity Modulates Sensitivity to Cisplatin
Authors: Hemmingsson Oskar , Kao Gautam , Still Maria , Naredi Peter
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer can be cured by platinum-based chemotherapy, but resistance is a major cause of treatment failure. Here we present the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model to study interactions between the platinum drug cisplatin and signaling pathways in vivo. Null mutation in a single gene, asna-1, makes worms hypersensitive to cisplatin. The metalloregulated ATPase ASNA-1 promotes insulin secretion and membrane insertion of tail-anchored proteins. Using structural data from ASNA-1 homologues, we identify specific ASNA-1 mutants that are sensitive to cisplatin while still able to promote insulin signaling. Mutational analysis reveals that hypersensitivity of ASNA-1 mutants to cisplatin remains in absence of CEP-1/p53 or apoptosis. Human ASNA1 can substitute for the worm gene, indicating a conserved function. Cisplatin sensitivity is not affected by decreased insulin signaling in wild-type nematodes or restored insulin signaling in asna-1 mutants. These findings provide a functional insight into ASNA-1, demonstrate that C. elegans can be used to characterize cisplatin resistance mechanisms, and suggest that rationally designed drugs against ASNA-1 can sensitize cancer cells to cisplatin. Cancer Res; 70(24); 10321–8. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Inactivation of Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A Enhances Antitumoral Immune Response by Promoting Dendritic Cell and T Lymphocyte Infiltration
Authors: Murakami Masato , Francavilla Chiara , Torselli Ilaria , Corada Monica , Maddaluno Luigi , Sica Antonio , Matteoli Gianluca , Iliev Iliyan Dimitrov , Mantovani Alberto , Rescigno Maria , Cavallaro Ugo , Dejana Elisabetta
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A)–null dendritic cells (DCs) are more motile and effective than their wild-type counterpart in promoting contact hypersensitivity reaction. Here, we show that the growth and aggressiveness of pancreatic islet cell carcinoma induced by SV40 T antigen expression in β cells (Rip1Tag2 mice) are significantly reduced in JAM-A–null mice. Because these tumor cells do not express JAM-A, we focused on changes in stroma reactivity. In the absence of JAM-A, tumors showed a small but significant reduction in angiogenesis and a marked increase in the immune reaction with enhanced infiltration of DCs (CD11c+ and MHC-II+) and CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes. In contrast, phagocyte number was not affected. DC capacity to produce cytokines was not significantly altered, but transmigration through JAM-A–null endothelial cells was increased as compared with JAM-A–positive endothelium. On adoptive transfer, JAM-A−/− DCs were recruited to tumors at slightly but significantly higher rate than JAM-A+/+ DCs. Ablation of CD4+ and CD8+ cells with specific antibodies abrogated the inhibitory effect of JAM-A deletion on tumor growth and angiogenesis. These findings support the idea that, in the Rip1Tag2 tumor model, abrogation of JAM-A reduces cancer development by increasing antitumor immune response. Cancer Res; 70(5); 1759–65
Data from Signal Transduction Networks in Cancer: Quantitative Parameters Influence Network Topology
Authors: Klinke David J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Networks of fixed topology are used to summarize the collective understanding of the flow of signaling information within a cell (i.e., canonical signaling networks). Moreover, these canonical signaling networks are used to interpret how observed oncogenic changes in protein activity or expression alter information flow in cancer cells. However, creating a novel branch within a signaling network (i.e., a noncanonical edge) provides a mechanism for a cell to acquire the hallmark characteristics of cancer. The objective of this study was to assess the existence of a noncanonical edge within a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling network based upon variation in protein expression alone, using a mathematical model of the early signaling events associated with epidermal growth factor receptor 1 (ErbB1) signaling network as an illustrative example. The abundance of canonical protein–RTK complexes (e.g., growth factor receptor bound protein 2–ErbB1 and Src homology 2 domain containing transforming protein 1–ErbB1) were used to establish a threshold that was correlated with ligand-dependent changes in cell proliferation. Given the available data, the uncertainty associated with this threshold was estimated using an empirical Bayesian approach. Using the variability in protein expression observed among a collection of breast cancer cell lines, this model was used to assess whether a noncanonical edge (e.g., Irs1-ErbB1) exceeds the threshold and to identify cell lines where this noncanonical edge is likely to be observed. Taken together, the simulations suggest that the topology of signal transduction networks within cells is influenced by quantitative parameters, such as protein expression and binding affinity. Moreover, forming this noncanonical pathway was not due solely to overexpression of the cell surface receptor but was influenced by overexpression of all members of the multiprotein complex. Multivariate alterations in expression of signaling proteins in cancer cells may activate noncanonical pathways and may rewire the signaling network within a cell. Cancer Res; 70(5); 1773–82