bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Mast Cell–Derived Prostaglandin D2 Inhibits Colitis and Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer in Mice
Authors: Iwanaga Koichi , Nakamura Tatsuro , Maeda Shingo , Aritake Kosuke , Hori Masatoshi , Urade Yoshihiro , Ozaki Hiroshi , Murata Takahisa
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Compared with prostaglandin E2, which has an established role in cancer, the role of the COX metabolite prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) in chronic inflammation leading to tumorigenesis is uncertain. In this study, we investigated the role of PGD2 in colitis and colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC) using genetically modified mice and an established model of inflammatory colon carcinogenesis. Systemic genetic deficiency in hematopoietic PGD synthase (H-PGDS) aggravated colitis and accelerated tumor formation in a manner associated with increased TNFα expression. Treatment with a TNFα receptor antagonist attenuated colitis regardless of genotype. Histologic analysis revealed that infiltrated mast cells strongly expressed H-PGDS in inflamed colons. Mast cell–specific H-PGDS deficiency also aggravated colitis and accelerated CAC. In contrast, treatment with a PGD2 receptor agonist inhibited colitis and CAC. Together, our results identified mast cell–derived PGD2 as an inhibitor of colitis and CAC, with implications for its potential use in preventing or treating colon cancer. Cancer Res; 74(11); 3011–9. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Thyroid Hormone Regulation of miR-21 Enhances Migration and Invasion of Hepatoma
Authors: Huang Ya-Hui , Lin Yang-Hsiang , Chi Hsiang-Cheng , Liao Chen-Hsin , Liao Chia-Jung , Wu Sheng-Ming , Chen Cheng-Yi , Tseng Yi-Hsin , Tsai Chung-Ying , Lin Sheng-Yen , Hung Yu-Ting , Wang Chih-Jen , Lin Crystal D. , Lin Kwang-Huei
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Thyroid hormone (T3) signaling through the thyroid hormone receptor (TRα1) regulates hepatoma cell growth and pathophysiology, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear at present. Here, we have shown that the oncomir microRNA-21 (miR-21) is activated by T3 through a native T3 response element in the primary miR-21 promoter. Overexpression of miR-21 promoted hepatoma cell migration and invasion, similar to that observed with T3 stimulation in hepatoma cells. In addition, anti-miR-21–induced suppression of cell migration was rescued by T3. The Rac-controlled regulator of invasion and metastasis, T-cell lymphoma invasion and metastasis 1 (TIAM1), was identified as a miR-21 target additionally downregulated by T3. Attenuation and overexpression of miR-21 induced upregulation and downregulation of TIAM1, respectively. TIAM1 attenuation, in turn, enhanced migration and invasion via the upregulation of β-catenin, vimentin, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in hepatoma cells. Notably, correlations between TRα1, miR-21, and TIAM1 expression patterns in animal models paralleled those observed in vitro. In the clinic, we observed a positive correlation (P = 0.005) between the tumor/nontumor ratios of TRα1 and miR-21 expression, whereas a negative correlation (P = 0.019) was seen between miR-21 and TIAM1 expression in patients with hepatoma. Our findings collectively indicate that miR-21 stimulation by T3 and subsequent TIAM1 suppression promotes hepatoma cell migration and invasion. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2505–17. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Autophagy Induction in Breast Carcinoma Promote Escape from T-cell–Mediated Lysis
Authors: Akalay Intissar , Janji Bassam , Hasmim Meriem , Noman Muhammad Zaeem , André Fabrice , De Cremoux Patricia , Bertheau Philippe , Badoual Cécile , Vielh Philippe , Larsen Annette K. , Sabbah Michèle , Tan Tuan Zea , Keira Joan Herr , Ying Hung Nicole Tsang , Thiery Jean Paul , Mami-Chouaib Fathia , Chouaib Salem
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediates cancer cell invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance, but its impact on immune surveillance has not been explored. In this study, we investigated the functional consequences of this mode of epithelial cell plasticity on targeted cell lysis by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Acquisition of the EMT phenotype in various derivatives of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells was associated with dramatic morphologic changes and actin cytoskeleton remodeling, with CD24−/CD44+/ALDH+ stem cell populations present exhibiting a higher degree of EMT relative to parental cells. Strikingly, acquisition of this phenotype also associated with an inhibition of CTL-mediated tumor cell lysis. Resistant cells exhibited attenuation in the formation of an immunologic synapse with CTLs along with the induction of autophagy in the target cells. This response was critical for susceptibility to CTL-mediated lysis because siRNA-mediated silencing of beclin1 to inhibit autophagy in target cells restored their susceptibility to CTL-induced lysis. Our results argue that in addition to promoting invasion and metastasis EMT also profoundly alters the susceptibility of cancer cells to T-cell–mediated immune surveillance. Furthermore, they reveal EMT and autophagy as conceptual realms for immunotherapeutic strategies to block immune escape. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2418–27. ©2013 AACR.
Data from A Multifunctional Chimeric Chaperone Serves as a Novel Immune Modulator Inducing Therapeutic Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Yu Xiaofei , Guo Chunqing , Yi Huanfa , Qian Jie , Fisher Paul B. , Subjeck John R. , Wang Xiang-Yang
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Converting the immunosuppressive tumor environment into one that is favorable to the induction of antitumor immunity is indispensable for effective cancer immunotherapy. Here, we strategically incorporate a pathogen (i.e., flagellin)-derived, NF-κB–stimulating “danger” signal into the large stress protein or chaperone Grp170 (HYOU1/ORP150) that was previously shown to facilitate antigen crosspresentation. This engineered chimeric molecule (i.e., Flagrp170) is capable of transporting tumor antigens and concurrently inducing functional activation of dendritic cells (DC). Intratumoral administration of adenoviruses expressing Flagrp170 induces a superior antitumor response against B16 melanoma and its distant lung metastasis compared with unmodified Grp170 and flagellin. The enhanced tumor destruction is accompanied with significantly increased tumor infiltration by CD8+ cells as well as elevation of IFN-γ and interleukin (IL)-12 levels in the tumor sites. In situ Ad.Flagrp170 therapy provokes systemic activation of CTLs that recognize several antigens naturally expressing in melanoma (e.g., gp100/PMEL and TRP2/DCT). The mechanistic studies using CD11c-DTR transgenic mice and Batf3-deficient mice reveal that CD8α+ DCs are required for the improved T-cell crosspriming. Antibody neutralization assays show that IL-12 and IFN-γ are essential for the Flagrp170-elicited antitumor response, which also involves CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells. The therapeutic efficacy of Flagrp170 and its immunostimulating activity are also confirmed in mouse prostate cancer and colon carcinoma. Together, targeting the tumor microenvironment with this chimeric chaperone is highly effective in mobilizing or restoring antitumor immunity, supporting the potential therapeutic use of this novel immunomodulator in the treatment of metastatic diseases. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2093–103. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Ly49 Family Receptors Are Required for Cancer Immunosurveillance Mediated by Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Tu Megan M. , Mahmoud Ahmad Bakur , Wight Andrew , Mottashed Amelia , Bélanger Simon , Rahim Mir Munir A. , Abou-Samra Elias , Makrigiannis Andrew P.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
According to the missing-self hypothesis, natural killer (NK) cells survey for target cells that lack MHC-I molecules. The Ly49 receptor family recognizes loss of MHC-I and is critical for educating NK cells, conferring the ability to eliminate transformed or infected cells. In this study, we evaluated their requirement in innate immune surveillance of cancer cells using genetically manipulated mice with attenuated expression of Ly49 receptors (NKCKD) in several models of carcinoma and metastasis. We found that NKCKD mice exhibited uncontrolled tumor growth and metastases. Expression of two MHC-I alleles, H-2Kb and H-2Db, was decreased in tumors from NKCKD mice in support of the likelihood of NK-mediated tumor immunoediting. These tumor cells exhibited directed alterations to their cell surface expression in response to the genetically altered immune environment to evade host recognition. Immunoediting in NKCKD mice was restricted to MHC-I molecules, which are ligands for Ly49 receptors, while expression of Rae-1 and Mult1, ligands for another NK cell receptor, NKG2D, were unaffected. Restoring NK cell education in NKCKD mice with a transgene for the inhibitory self-MHC-I receptor Ly49I restored suppression of cancer onset and growth. Interestingly, immune surveillance mediated by activating Ly49 receptors remained intact in NKCKD mice, as demonstrated by the ability to stimulate the NKG2D receptor with tumor cells or splenocytes expressing Rae-1. Together, our results genetically establish the integral role of Ly49 in NK cell-mediated control of carcinogenesis through MHC-I–dependent missing-self recognition. Cancer Res; 74(14); 3684–94. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Multimodal Elucidation of Choline Metabolism in a Murine Glioma Model Using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and 11C-Choline Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Wehrl Hans F. , Schwab Julian , Hasenbach Kathy , Reischl Gerald , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia , Jiru Filip , Chughtai Kamila , Kiss Andras , Cay Funda , Bukala Daniel , Heeren Ron M.A. , Pichler Bernd J. , Sauter Alexander W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The metabolites, transporters, and enzymes involved in choline metabolism are regarded as biomarkers for disease progression in a variety of cancers, but their in vivo detection is not ideal. Both magnetic resonance spectroscopy [MRS using chemical shift imaging (CSI) total choline (tCho)] and 11C-choline positron emission tomography (PET) can probe this pathway, but they have not been compared side by side. In this study, we used the spontaneous murine astrocytoma model SMA560 injected intracranially into syngeneic VM/Dk mice, analyzing animals at various postimplantation time points using dynamic microPET imaging and CSI MRS. We observed an increase in tumor volume and 11C-choline uptake between days 5 and 18. Similarly, tCho levels decreased at days 5 to 18. We found a negative correlation between the tCho and PET results in the tumor and a positive correlation between the tCho tumor-to-brain ratio and choline uptake in the tumor. PCR results confirmed expected increases in expression levels for most of the transporters and enzymes. Using MRS quantification, a good agreement was found between CSI and 11C-choline PET data, whereas a negative correlation occurred when CSI was not referenced. Thus, 11C-choline PET and MRS methods seemed to be complementary in strengths. While advancing tumor proliferation caused an increasing 11C-choline uptake, gliosis and inflammation potentially accounted for a high peritumoral tCho signal in CSI, as supported by histology and secondary ion mass spectrometry imaging. Our findings provide definitive evidence of the use of MRS, CSI, and PET for imaging tumors in vivo. Cancer Res; 73(5); 1470–80. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Preclinical Evidence That PD1 Blockade Cooperates with Cancer Vaccine TEGVAX to Elicit Regression of Established Tumors
Authors: Fu Juan , Malm Ian-James , Kadayakkara Deepak K. , Levitsky Hy , Pardoll Drew , Kim Young J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Biomarker studies have shown that expression of the T-cell coregulatory ligand PDL1 on tumor cells correlates with clinical responsiveness to the PD1 antibody nivolumab. Here, we report the findings of a preclinical cancer vaccine study demonstrating vaccine-dependent PDL1 upregulation in the tumor microenvironment. We formulated an IFNγ-inducing cancer vaccine called TEGVAX that combined GM-CSF and multiple Toll-like receptor agonists to increase the number of activated dendritic cells. Treatment of established tumors with TEGVAX retarded tumor growth in a manner associated with enhanced systemic antitumor immunity. Unexpectedly, TEGVAX also upregulated PDL1 expression in the tumor microenvironment, possibly explaining why tumors were not eliminated completely. In support of this likelihood, PDL1 upregulation in this setting relied upon IFNγ-expressing tumor-infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and administration of a PD1-blocking antibody with TEGVAX elicited complete regression of established tumors. Taken together, our findings provide a mechanistic rationale to combine IFNγ-inducing cancer vaccines with immune checkpoint blockade. Cancer Res; 74(15); 4042–52. ©2014 AACR.
Data from The RAD51-Stimulatory Compound RS-1 Can Exploit the RAD51 Overexpression That Exists in Cancer Cells and Tumors
Authors: Mason Jennifer M. , Logan Hillary L. , Budke Brian , Wu Megan , Pawlowski Michal , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Kozikowski Alan P. , Bishop Douglas K. , Connell Philip P.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
RAD51 is the central protein that catalyzes DNA repair via homologous recombination, a process that ensures genomic stability. RAD51 protein is commonly expressed at high levels in cancer cells relative to their noncancerous precursors. High levels of RAD51 expression can lead to the formation of genotoxic RAD51 protein complexes on undamaged chromatin. We developed a therapeutic approach that exploits this potentially toxic feature of malignancy, using compounds that stimulate the DNA-binding activity of RAD51 to promote cancer cell death. A panel of immortalized cell lines was challenged with the RAD51-stimulatory compound RS-1. Resistance to RS-1 tended to occur in cells with higher levels of RAD54L and RAD54B, which are Swi2/Snf2-related translocases known to dissociate RAD51 filaments from dsDNA. In PC3 prostate cancer cells, RS-1–induced lethality was accompanied by the formation of microscopically visible RAD51 nuclear protein foci occurring in the absence of any DNA-damaging treatment. Treatment with RS-1 promoted significant antitumor responses in a mouse model, providing proof-of-principle for this novel therapeutic strategy. Cancer Res; 74(13); 3546–55. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Transient Induction of ING4 by Myc Drives Prostate Epithelial Cell Differentiation and Its Disruption Drives Prostate Tumorigenesis
Authors: Berger Penny L. , Frank Sander B. , Schulz Veronique V. , Nollet Eric A. , Edick Mathew J. , Holly Brittany , Chang Ting-Tung A. , Hostetter Galen , Kim Suwon , Miranti Cindy K.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The mechanisms by which Myc overexpression or Pten loss promotes prostate cancer development are poorly understood. We identified the chromatin remodeling protein, ING4, as a crucial switch downstream of Myc and Pten that is required for human prostate epithelial differentiation. Myc-induced transient expression of ING4 is required for the differentiation of basal epithelial cells into luminal cells, while sustained ING4 expression induces apoptosis. ING4 expression is lost in >60% of human primary prostate tumors. ING4 or Pten loss prevents epithelial cell differentiation, which was necessary for tumorigenesis. Pten loss prevents differentiation by blocking ING4 expression, which is rescued by ING4 re-expression. Pten or ING4 loss generates tumor cells that co-express basal and luminal markers, indicating prostate oncogenesis occurs through disruption of an intermediate step in the prostate epithelial differentiation program. Thus, we identified a new epithelial cell differentiation switch involving Myc, Pten, and ING4, which when disrupted leads to prostate tumorigenesis. Myc overexpression and Pten loss are common genetic abnormalities in prostate cancer, whereas loss of the tumor suppressor ING4 has not been reported. This is the first demonstration that transient ING4 expression is absolutely required for epithelial differentiation, its expression is dependent on Myc and Pten, and it is lost in the majority of human prostate cancers. This is the first demonstration that loss of ING4, either directly or indirectly through loss of Pten, promotes Myc-driven oncogenesis by deregulating differentiation. The clinical implication is that Pten/ING4 negative and ING4-only negative tumors may reflect two distinct subtypes of prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 74(12); 3357–68. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Regulation of Lung Cancer Metastasis by Klf4-Numb–like Signaling
Authors: Vaira Valentina , Faversani Alice , Martin Nina M. , Garlick David S. , Ferrero Stefano , Nosotti Mario , Kissil Joseph L. , Bosari Silvano , Altieri Dario C.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Metastatic traits seem to be acquired by transformed cells with progenitor-like cancer-initiating properties, but there remains little mechanistic insight into this linkage. In this report, we show that the polarity protein Numbl, which is expressed normally in neuronal progenitors, becomes overexpressed and mislocalized in cancer cells from a variety of human tumors. Numbl overexpression relies on loss of the tumor suppressor miRNA-296-5p (miR-296), which actively represses translation of Numbl in normal cells. In turn, deregulated expression of Numbl mediates random tumor cell migration and invasion, blocking anoikis and promoting metastatic dissemination. In clinical specimens of non–small cell lung cancer, we found that Numbl overexpression correlated with a reduction in overall patient survival. Mechanistically, Numbl-mediated tumorigenesis involved suppression of a “stemness” transcriptional program driven by the stem cell programming transcription factor Klf4, thereby preserving a pool of progenitor-like cells in lung cancer. Our results reveal that Numbl-Klf4 signaling is critical to maintain multiple nodes of metastatic progression, including persistence of cancer-initiating cells, rationalizing its therapeutic exploitation to improve the treatment of advanced lung cancer Cancer Res; 73(8); 2695–705. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Tumor Suppressor NF2/Merlin Is a Microtubule Stabilizer
Authors: Smole Zlatko , Thoma Claudio R. , Applegate Kathryn T. , Duda Maria , Gutbrodt Katrin L. , Danuser Gaudenz , Krek Wilhelm
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cancer-associated mutations in oncogene products and tumor suppressors contributing to tumor progression manifest themselves, at least in part, by deregulating microtubule-dependent cellular processes that play important roles in many cell biological pathways, including intracellular transport, cell architecture, and primary cilium and mitotic spindle organization. An essential characteristic of microtubules in the performance of these varied cell processes is their ability to continuously remodel, a phenomenon known as dynamic instability. It is therefore conceivable that part of the normal function of certain cancer-causing genes is to regulate microtubule dynamic instability. Here, we report the results of a high-resolution live-cell image-based RNA interference screen targeting a collection of 70 human tumor suppressor genes to uncover cancer genes affecting microtubule dynamic instability. Extraction and computational analysis of microtubule dynamics from EB3-GFP time-lapse image sequences identified the products of the tumor suppressor genes NF1 and NF2 as potent microtubule-stabilizing proteins. Further in-depth characterization of NF2 revealed that it binds to and stabilizes microtubules through attenuation of tubulin turnover by lowering both rates of microtubule polymerization and depolymerization as well as by reducing the frequency of microtubule catastrophes. The latter function appears to be mediated, in part, by inhibition of hydrolysis of tubulin-bound GTP on the growing microtubule plus end. Cancer Res; 74(1); 353–62. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Phosphorylation of Ribosomal Protein S6 Attenuates DNA Damage and Tumor Suppression during Development of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Khalaileh Abed , Dreazen Avigail , Khatib Areej , Apel Roy , Swisa Avital , Kidess-Bassir Norma , Maitra Anirban , Meyuhas Oded , Dor Yuval , Zamir Gideon
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The signaling pathways that mediate the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) downstream of mutant Kras remain incompletely understood. Here, we focus on ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6), an mTOR effector not implicated previously in cancer. Phosphorylation of rpS6 was increased in pancreatic acinar cells upon implantation of the chemical carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) or transgenic expression of mutant Kras. To examine the functional significance of rpS6 phosphorylation, we used knockin mice lacking all five phosphorylatable sites in rpS6 (termed rpS6P−/− mice). Strikingly, the development of pancreatic cancer precursor lesions induced by either DMBA or mutant Kras was greatly reduced in rpS6P−/− mice. The rpS6 mutants expressing oncogenic Kras showed increased p53 along with increased staining of γ-H2AX and 53bp1 (Trp53bp1) in areas of acinar ductal metaplasia, suggesting that rpS6 phosphorylation attenuates Kras-induced DNA damage and p53-mediated tumor suppression. These results reveal that rpS6 phosphorylation is important for the initiation of pancreatic cancer. Cancer Res; 73(6); 1811–20. ©2012 AACR.
Data from T Lymphocytes Expressing a CD16 Signaling Receptor Exert Antibody-Dependent Cancer Cell Killing
Authors: Kudo Ko , Imai Chihaya , Lorenzini Paolo , Kamiya Takahiro , Kono Koji , Davidoff Andrew M. , Chng Wee Joo , Campana Dario
Published: March 2024

Abstract
To expand applications for T-cell–based immunotherapy in cancer, we designed a receptor that binds the Fc portion of human immunoglobulins and delivers activation signals. The construct included the high-affinity CD16 (FCGR3A) V158 variant, CD8α hinge, and transmembrane domains, along with signaling domains from CD3ζ and 4-1BB (TNFRSF9), forming a chimeric receptor termed CD16V-BB-ζ. After retrovirus-mediated expression in human T cells, CD16V-BB-ζ bound humanized antibodies with higher affinity than a control receptor containing the more common F158 variant. Engagement of CD16V-BB-ζ provoked T-cell activation, exocytosis of lytic granules, and sustained proliferation, with a mean cell recovery after 4-week coculture with Daudi lymphoma cells and rituximab of nearly 70-fold relative to input cells. In contrast, unbound antibody alone produced no effect. CD16V-BB-ζ T cells specifically killed lymphoma cells and primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells in combination with rituximab at a low effector:target ratio, even when assayed on mesenchymal cells. Trastuzumab triggered CD16V-BB-ζ–mediated killing of HER2 (ERBB2)+ breast and gastric cancer cells; similar results were obtained with an anti-GD2 antibody in neuroblastoma and osteosarcoma cells. Furthermore, coadministration of CD16V-BB-ζ T cells with immunotherapeutic antibodies exerted considerable antitumor activity in vivo. Signaling mediated by 4-1BB-CD3ζ induced higher T-cell activation, proliferation, and cytotoxicity than CD3ζ or FcϵRIγ, and the receptor was expressed effectively after mRNA electroporation without viral vectors, facilitating clinical translation. Our results offer preclinical proof of concept for CD16V-BB-ζ as a universal, next-generation chimeric receptor with the potential to augment the efficacy of antibody therapies for cancer. Cancer Res; 74(1); 93–103. ©2013 AACR.
Data from PARI Overexpression Promotes Genomic Instability and Pancreatic Tumorigenesis
Authors: O'Connor Kevin W. , Dejsuphong Donniphat , Park Eunmi , Nicolae Claudia M. , Kimmelman Alec C. , D'Andrea Alan D. , Moldovan George-Lucian
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Treatment options for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain limited. Therapeutic targets of interest include mutated molecules that predispose to pancreatic cancer such as KRAS and TP53. Here, we show that an element of the homologous recombination pathway of DNA repair, the PARP-binding protein C12orf48/PARI (PARPBP), is overexpressed specifically in pancreatic cancer cells where it is an appealing candidate for targeted therapy. PARI upregulation in pancreatic cancer cells or avian DT40 cells conferred DNA repair deficiency and genomic instability. Significantly, PARI silencing compromised cancer cell proliferation in vitro, leading to cell-cycle alterations associated with S-phase delay, perturbed DNA replication, and activation of the DNA damage response pathway in the absence of DNA damage stimuli. Conversely, PARI overexpression produced tolerance to DNA damage by promoting replication of damaged DNA. In a mouse xenograft model of pancreatic cancer, PARI silencing was sufficient to reduce pancreatic tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, our findings offered a preclinical proof-of-concept for PARI as candidate therapeutic target to treat PDAC. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2529–39. ©2013 AACR.
Data from β-Catenin Activation in a Novel Liver Progenitor Cell Type Is Sufficient to Cause Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Mokkapati Sharada , Niopek Katharina , Huang Le , Cunniff Kegan J. , Ruteshouser E. Cristy , deCaestecker Mark , Finegold Milton J. , Huff Vicki
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was thought historically to arise from hepatocytes, but gene expression studies have suggested that it can also arise from fetal progenitor cells or their adult progenitor progeny. Here, we report the identification of a unique population of fetal liver progenitor cells in mice that can serve as a cell of origin in HCC development. In the transgenic model used, mice carry the Cited1-CreERTM-GFP BAC transgene in which a tamoxifen-inducible Cre (CreERTM) and GFP are controlled by a 190-kb 5′ genomic region of Cited1, a transcriptional coactivator protein for CBP/p300. Wnt signaling is critical for regulating self-renewal of progenitor/stem cells and has been implicated in the etiology of cancers of rapidly self-renewing tissues, so we hypothesized that Wnt pathway activation in CreERTM-GFP+ progenitors would result in HCC. In livers from the mouse model, transgene-expressing cells represented 4% of liver cells at E11.5 when other markers were expressed, characteristic of the hepatic stem/progenitor cells that give rise to adult hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and SOX9+ periductal cells. By 26 weeks of age, more than 90% of Cited1-CreERTM-GFP;Ctnnb1ex3(fl) mice with Wnt pathway activation developed HCC and, in some cases, hepatoblastomas and lung metastases. HCC and hepatoblastomas resembled their human counterparts histologically, showing activation of Wnt, Ras/Raf/MAPK, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways and expressing relevant stem/progenitor cell markers. Our results show that Wnt pathway activation is sufficient for malignant transformation of these unique liver progenitor cells, offering functional support for a fetal/adult progenitor origin of some human HCC. We believe this model may offer a valuable new tool to improve understanding of the cellular etiology and biology of HCC and hepatoblastomas and the development of improved therapeutics for these diseases. Cancer Res; 74(16); 4515–25. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Local and Systemic Protumorigenic Effects of Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Derived GDF15
Authors: Bruzzese Francesca , Hägglöf Christina , Leone Alessandra , Sjöberg Elin , Roca Maria Serena , Kiflemariam Sara , Sjöblom Tobias , Hammarsten Peter , Egevad Lars , Bergh Anders , Östman Arne , Budillon Alfredo , Augsten Martin
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The tumor stroma is vital to tumor development, progression, and metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are among the abundant cell types in the tumor stroma, but the range of their contributions to cancer pathogenicity has yet to be fully understood. Here, we report a critical role for upregulation of the TGFβ/BMP family member GDF15 (MIC-1) in tumor stroma. GDF15 was found upregulated in situ and in primary cultures of CAF from prostate cancer. Ectopic expression of GDF15 in fibroblasts produced prominent paracrine effects on prostate cancer cell migration, invasion, and tumor growth. Notably, GDF15-expressing fibroblasts exerted systemic in vivo effects on the outgrowth of distant and otherwise indolent prostate cancer cells. Our findings identify tumor stromal cells as a novel source of GDF15 in human prostate cancer and illustrate a systemic mechanism of cancer progression driven by the tumor microenvironment. Further, they provide a functional basis to understand GDF15 as a biomarker of poor prognosis and a candidate therapeutic target in prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 74(13); 3408–17. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Soluble Carcinoembryonic Antigen Activates Endothelial Cells and Tumor Angiogenesis
Authors: Bramswig Kira H. , Poettler Marina , Unseld Matthias , Wrba Friedrich , Uhrin Pavel , Zimmermann Wolfgang , Zielinski Christoph C. , Prager Gerald W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA, CD66e, CEACAM-5) is a cell-surface–bound glycoprotein overexpressed and released by many solid tumors that has an autocrine function in cancer cell survival and differentiation. Soluble CEA released by tumors is present in the circulation of patients with cancer, where it is used as a marker for cancer progression, but whether this form of CEA exerts any effects in the tumor microenvironment is unknown. Here, we present evidence that soluble CEA is sufficient to induce proangiogenic endothelial cell behaviors, including adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and migration in vitro and tumor microvascularization in vivo. CEA-induced activation of endothelial cells was dependent on integrin β-3 signals that activate the focal-adhesion kinase and c-Src kinase and their downstream MAP–ERK kinase/extracellular signal regulated kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt effector pathways. Notably, while interference with VEGF signaling had no effect on CEA-induced endothelial cell activation, downregulation with the CEA receptor in endothelial cells attenuated CEA-induced signaling and tumor angiogenesis. Corroborating these results clinically, we found that tumor microvascularization was higher in patients with colorectal cancer exhibiting higher serum levels of soluble CEA. Together, our results elucidate a novel function for soluble CEA in tumor angiogenesis. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6584–96. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Enhancement of Antitumor Immunity in Lung Cancer by Targeting Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Pathways
Authors: Sawant Anandi , Schafer Cara C. , Jin Tong Huan , Zmijewski Jaroslaw , Tse Hubert M. , Roth Justin , Sun Zhihuan , Siegal Gene P. , Thannickal Victor J. , Grant Stefan C. , Ponnazhagan Selvarangan , Deshane Jessy S.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Chemoresistance due to heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) hampers the long-term efficacy of first-line therapies for lung cancer. Current combination therapies for lung cancer provide only modest improvement in survival, implicating necessity for novel approaches that suppress malignant growth and stimulate long-term antitumor immunity. Oxidative stress in the TME promotes immunosuppression by tumor-infiltrating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), which inhibit host protective antitumor immunity. Using a murine model of lung cancer, we demonstrate that a combination treatment with gemcitabine and a superoxide dismutase mimetic targets immunosuppressive MDSC in the TME and enhances the quantity and quality of both effector and memory CD8+ T-cell responses. At the effector cell function level, the unique combination therapy targeting MDSC and redox signaling greatly enhanced cytolytic CD8+ T-cell response and further decreased regulatory T cell infiltration. For long-term antitumor effects, this therapy altered the metabolism of memory cells with self-renewing phenotype and provided a preferential advantage for survival of memory subsets with long-term efficacy and persistence. Adoptive transfer of memory cells from this combination therapy prolonged survival of tumor-bearing recipients. Furthermore, the adoptively transferred memory cells responded to tumor rechallenge exerting long-term persistence. This approach offers a new paradigm to inhibit immunosuppression by direct targeting of MDSC function, to generate effector and persistent memory cells for tumor eradication, and to prevent lung cancer relapse. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6609–20. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Amplification of FRS2 and Activation of FGFR/FRS2 Signaling Pathway in High-Grade Liposarcoma
Authors: Zhang Keqiang , Chu Kevin , Wu Xiwei , Gao Hanlin , Wang Jinhui , Yuan Yate-Ching , Loera Sofia , Ho Kimberley , Wang Yafan , Chow Warren , Un Frank , Chu Peiguo , Yen Yun
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor (FGFR) substrate 2 (FRS2) is an adaptor protein that plays a critical role in FGFR signaling. FRS2 is located on chromosome 12q13-15 that is frequently amplified in liposarcomas. The significance of FRS2 and FGFR signaling in high-grade liposarcomas is unknown. Herein, we first comparatively examined the amplification and expression of FRS2 with CDK4 and MDM2 in dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS) and undifferentiated high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma (UHGPS). Amplification and expression of the three genes were identified in 90% to 100% (9–11 of 11) of DDLS, whereas that of FRS2, CDK4, and MDM2 were observed in 55% (41 of 75), 48% (36 of 75), and 44% (33/75) of clinically diagnosed UHGPS, suggesting that these “UHGPS” may represent DDLS despite lacking histologic evidence of lipoblasts. Immunohistochemical analysis of phosphorylated FRS2 protein indicated that the FGFR/FRS2 signaling axis was generally activated in about 75% of FRS2-positive high-grade liposarcomas. Moreover, we found that FRS2 and FGFRs proteins are highly expressed and functional in three high-grade liposarcoma cell lines: FU-DDLS-1, LiSa-2, and SW872. Importantly, the FGFR selective inhibitor NVP-BGJ-398 significantly inhibited the growth of FU-DDLS-1 and LiSa-2 cells with a concomitant suppression of FGFR signal transduction. Attenuation of FRS2 protein in FU-DDLS-1 and LiSa-2 cell lines decreased the phosphorylated extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 and AKT and repressed cell proliferation. These findings indicate that analysis of FRS2 in combination with CDK4 and MDM2 will more accurately characterize pathologic features of high-grade liposarcomas. Activated FGFR/FRS2 signaling may play a functional role in the development of high-grade liposarcomas, therefore, serve as a potential therapeutic target. Cancer Res; 73(4); 1298–307. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Taccalonolide Binding to Tubulin Imparts Microtubule Stability and Potent In Vivo Activity
Authors: Risinger A.L. , Li J. , Bennett M.J. , Rohena C.C. , Peng J. , Schriemer D.C. , Mooberry S.L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The taccalonolides are highly acetylated steroids that stabilize cellular microtubules and overcome multiple mechanisms of taxane resistance. Recently, two potent taccalonolides, AF and AJ, were identified that bind to tubulin directly and enhance microtubule polymerization. Extensive studies were conducted to characterize these new taccalonolides. AF and AJ caused aberrant mitotic spindles and bundling of interphase microtubules that differed from the effects of either paclitaxel or laulimalide. AJ also distinctly affected microtubule polymerization in that it enhanced the rate and extent of polymerization in the absence of any noticeable effect on microtubule nucleation. In addition, the resulting microtubules were found to be profoundly cold stable. These data, along with studies showing synergistic antiproliferative effects between AJ and either paclitaxel or laulimalide, suggest a distinct binding site. Direct binding studies demonstrated that AJ could not be displaced from microtubules by paclitaxel, laulimalide, or denaturing conditions, suggesting irreversible binding of AJ to microtubules. Mass spectrometry confirmed a covalent interaction of AJ with a peptide of β-tubulin containing the cyclostreptin-binding sites. Importantly, AJ imparts strong inter-protofilament stability in a manner different from other microtubule stabilizers that covalently bind to tubulin, consistent with the distinct effects of the taccalonolides as compared with other stabilizers. AF was found to be a potent and effective antitumor agent that caused tumor regression in the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer xenograft model. The antitumor efficacy of some taccalonolides, which stabilize microtubules in a manner different from other microtubule stabilizers, provides the impetus to explore the therapeutic potential of this site. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6780–92. ©2013 AACR.
Data from AMPK Activation by Oncogenesis Is Required to Maintain Cancer Cell Proliferation in Astrocytic Tumors
Authors: Ríos Marcos , Foretz Marc , Viollet Benoit , Prieto Angel , Fraga Máximo , Costoya Jose A. , Señarís Rosa
Published: March 2024

Abstract
5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an energy sensor that controls cell metabolism, and it has been related to apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest. Although its role in metabolic homeostasis is well documented, its function in cancer is much less clear. In this study, we examined the role of AMPK in a mouse model of astrocytoma driven by oncogenic H-RasV12 and/or with PTEN deletion based on the common constitutive activation of the Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT cascades in human astrocytomas. We also evaluated the activity and role of AMPK in human glioblastoma cells and xenografts. AMPK was constitutively activated in astrocytes expressing oncogenic H-RasV12 in parallel with high cell division rates. Genetic deletion of AMPK or attenuation of its activity in these cells was sufficient to reduce cell proliferation. The levels of pAMK were always related to the levels of phosphorylated retinoblastoma (Rb) at Ser804, which may indicate an AMPK-mediated phosphorylation of Rb. We confirmed this AMPK–Rb relationship in human glioblastoma cell lines and xenografts. In clinical specimens of human glioblastoma, elevated levels of activated AMPK appeared especially in areas of high proliferation surrounding the blood vessels. Together, our findings indicate that the initiation and progression of astrocytic tumors relies upon AMPK-dependent control of the cell cycle, thereby identifying AMPK as a candidate therapeutic target in this setting. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2628–38. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Cisplatin Resistance Associated with PARP Hyperactivation
Authors: Michels Judith , Vitale Ilio , Galluzzi Lorenzo , Adam Julien , Olaussen Ken André , Kepp Oliver , Senovilla Laura , Talhaoui Ibtissam , Guegan Justine , Enot David Pierre , Talbot Monique , Robin Angélique , Girard Philippe , Oréar Cédric , Lissa Delphine , Sukkurwala Abdul Qader , Garcia Pauline , Behnam-Motlagh Parviz , Kohno Kimitoshi , Wu Gen Sheng , Brenner Catherine , Dessen Philippe , Saparbaev Murat , Soria Jean-Charles , Castedo Maria , Kroemer Guido
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Non–small cell lung carcinoma patients are frequently treated with cisplatin (CDDP), most often yielding temporary clinical responses. Here, we show that PARP1 is highly expressed and constitutively hyperactivated in a majority of human CDDP-resistant cancer cells of distinct histologic origin. Cells manifesting elevated intracellular levels of poly(ADP-ribosyl)ated proteins (PARhigh) responded to pharmacologic PARP inhibitors as well as to PARP1-targeting siRNAs by initiating a DNA damage response that translated into cell death following the activation of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Moreover, PARP1-overexpressing tumor cells and xenografts displayed elevated levels of PAR, which predicted the response to PARP inhibitors in vitro and in vivo more accurately than PARP1 expression itself. Thus, a majority of CDDP-resistant cancer cells appear to develop a dependency to PARP1, becoming susceptible to PARP inhibitor–induced apoptosis. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2271–80. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Galectin-1 Drives Pancreatic Carcinogenesis through Stroma Remodeling and Hedgehog Signaling Activation
Authors: Martínez-Bosch Neus , Fernández-Barrena Maite G. , Moreno Mireia , Ortiz-Zapater Elena , Munné-Collado Jessica , Iglesias Mar , André Sabine , Gabius Hans-Joachim , Hwang Rosa F. , Poirier Françoise , Navas Carolina , Guerra Carmen , Fernández-Zapico Martin E. , Navarro Pilar
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Despite some advances, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains generally refractory to current treatments. Desmoplastic stroma, a consistent hallmark of PDAC, has emerged as a major source of therapeutic resistance and thus potentially promising targets for improved treatment. The glycan-binding protein galectin-1 (Gal1) is highly expressed in PDAC stroma, but its roles there have not been studied. Here we report functions and molecular pathways of Gal1 that mediate its oncogenic properties in this setting. Genetic ablation of Gal1 in a mouse model of PDAC (EIa-myc mice) dampened tumor progression by inhibiting proliferation, angiogenesis, desmoplasic reaction and by stimulating a tumor-associated immune response, yielding a 20% increase in relative lifesplan. Cellular analyses in vitro and in vivo suggested these effects were mediated through the tumor microenvironment. Importantly, acinar-to-ductal metaplasia, a crucial step for initiation of PDAC, was found to be regulated by Gal1. Mechanistic investigations revealed that Gal1 promoted Hedgehog pathway signaling in PDAC cells and stromal fibroblasts as well as in Ela-myc tumors. Taken together, our findings establish a function for Gal1 in tumor-stroma crosstalk in PDAC and provide a preclinical rationale for Gal1 targeting as a microenvironment-based therapeutic strategy. Cancer Res; 74(13); 3512–24. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of SRC Corrects GM-CSF Hypersensitivity That Underlies Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia
Authors: Bunda Severa , Kang Michelle W. , Sybingco Stephanie S. , Weng Julie , Favre Helene , Shin Danielle H. , Irwin Meredith S. , Loh Mignon L. , Ohh Michael
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is an aggressive myeloproliferative neoplasm in children characterized by the overproduction of monocytic cells that infiltrate the spleen, lung, and liver. JMML remains a disease for which few curative therapies are available other than myeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT); however, relapse remains a major cause of treatment failure and the long-term morbidities of HSCT for survivors are substantial. A hallmark feature of JMML is acquired hypersensitivity by clonal myeloid progenitor cells to granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) via a largely unknown mechanism. Here, we identify c-Cbl (henceforth referred to as Cbl) as a GM-CSF receptor (GMR) adaptor protein that targets Src for ubiquitin-mediated destruction upon GM-CSF stimulation and show that a loss of negative regulation of Src is pivotal in the hyperactivation of GMR signaling in Cbl-mutated JMML cells. Notably, dasatinib, an U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved multikinase inhibitor that also targets Src family, dramatically attenuated the spontaneous and GM-CSF-induced hypersensitive growth phenotype of mononuclear cells from peripheral blood and bone marrow collected from JMML patients harboring Cbl or other known JMML-associated mutations. These findings reveal Src kinase as a critical oncogenic driver underlying JMML. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2540–50. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Hyperpolarized 13C-Pyruvate Magnetic Resonance Reveals Rapid Lactate Export in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Keshari Kayvan R. , Sriram Renuka , Koelsch Bertram L. , Van Criekinge Mark , Wilson David M. , Kurhanewicz John , Wang Zhen J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) are a heterogeneous group of tumors with a wide range of aggressiveness. Noninvasive methods to confidently predict the tumor biologic behavior and select appropriate treatment are lacking. Here, we investigate the dynamic metabolic flux in living RCC cells using hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) combined with a bioreactor platform and interrogated the biochemical basis of the MRS data with respect to cancer aggressiveness. RCC cells have significantly higher pyruvate-to-lactate flux than the normal renal tubule cells. Furthermore, a key feature distinguishing the localized from the metastatic RCC cells is the lactate efflux rate, mediated by the monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4). The metastatic RCC cells have significantly higher MCT4 expression and corresponding higher lactate efflux, which is essential for maintaining a high rate of glycolysis. We show that such differential cellular transporter expression and associated metabolic phenotype can be noninvasively assessed via real-time monitoring of hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate-to-lactate flux. Cancer Res; 73(2); 529–38. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Targeting the Deregulated Spliceosome Core Machinery in Cancer Cells Triggers mTOR Blockade and Autophagy
Authors: Quidville Virginie , Alsafadi Samar , Goubar Aïcha , Commo Frédéric , Scott Véronique , Pioche-Durieu Catherine , Girault Isabelle , Baconnais Sonia , Le Cam Eric , Lazar Vladimir , Delaloge Suzette , Saghatchian Mahasti , Pautier Patricia , Morice Philippe , Dessen Philippe , Vagner Stéphan , André Fabrice
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The spliceosome is a large ribonucleoprotein complex that guides pre-mRNA splicing in eukaryotic cells. Here, we determine whether the spliceosome could constitute an attractive therapeutic target in cancer. Analysis of gene expression arrays from lung, breast, and ovarian cancers datasets revealed that several genes encoding components of the core spliceosome composed of a heteroheptameric Sm complex were overexpressed in malignant disease as compared with benign lesions and could also define a subset of highly aggressive breast cancers. siRNA-mediated depletion of SmE (SNRPE) or SmD1 (SNRPD1) led to a marked reduction of cell viability in breast, lung, and melanoma cancer cell lines, whereas it had little effect on the survival of the nonmalignant MCF-10A breast epithelial cells. SNRPE or SNRPD1 depletion did not lead to apoptotic cell death but autophagy, another form of cell death. Indeed, induction of autophagy was revealed by cytoplasmic accumulation of autophagic vacuoles and by an increase in both LC3 (MAP1LC3A) protein conversion and the amount of acidic autophagic vacuoles. Knockdown of SNRPE dramatically decreased mTOR mRNA and protein levels and was accompanied by a deregulation of the mTOR pathway, which, in part, explains the SNRPE-dependent induction of autophagy. These findings provide a rational to develop new therapeutic agents targeting spliceosome core components in oncology. Cancer Res; 73(7); 2247–58. ©2013 AACR.