bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radioimmunotherapy of Solid Tumors by Targeting Extra Domain B Fibronectin: Identification of the Best-Suited Radioimmunoconjugate
Authors: Berndorff Dietmar , Borkowski Sandra , Sieger Stephanie , Rother Axel , Friebe Matthias , Viti Francesca , Hilger Christoph S. , Cyr John E. , Dinkelborg Ludger M.
Published: March 2006

Purpose: The expression of extra domain B (ED-B) fibronectin is always associated with angiogenic processes and can be exclusively observed in tissues undergoing growth and/or extensive remodeling. Due to this selective expression, ED-B fibronectin is an interesting target for radioimmunotherapy of malignant diseases. The aim of this study was to identify the most appropriate ED-B-targeting radioimmunoconjugate for the therapy of solid tumors.

Experimental Design: Three ED-B fibronectin-binding human antibody formats of L19 were investigated: dimeric single-chain Fv (∼50 kDa), “small immunoprotein” (SIP, ∼80 kDa), and immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1, ∼150 kDa). These L19 derivatives were either labeled with I-125 or with In-111 (using MX-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, MX-DTPA). Pharmacokinetics and tumor accumulation of the radiolabeled immunoconjugates were investigated in F9 (murine teratocarcinoma) tumor-bearing mice. Subsequently, dosimetry for the corresponding therapeutic isotopes I-13-1 and Y-90 was done. After testing the myelotoxicity of I-131-L19-SIP and I-131-L19-IgG1 in non-tumor-bearing mice, the therapeutic efficacy of these iodinated antibody formats was finally investigated in F9 tumor-bearing mice.

Results: The most favorable therapeutic index was found for I-131-L19-SIP followed by I-131-L19-IgG1. The therapeutic index of all In-111-labeled derivatives was significantly inferior. Considering the bone marrow as the dose-limiting organ, it was calculated that activities of 74 MBq I-131-L19-SIP and 25 MBq I-131-L19-IgG1 could be injected per mouse without causing severe myelotoxicity. The best therapeutic efficacy was observed using I-131-L19-SIP, resulting in significant tumor growth delay and prolonged survival after a single injection.

Conclusion: Compared with other L19-based radioimmunoconjugates, I-131-L19-SIP is characterized by superior antitumor efficacy and toxicity profile in the F9 teratocarcinoma animal model. These results indicate that ED-B fibronectin-targeted radioimmunotherapy using I-131-L19-SIP has potential to be applied to treatment of solid cancers.
Mechanisms of Cell Sensitization to α Radioimmunotherapy by Doxorubicin or Paclitaxel in Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines
Authors: Supiot Stephane , Gouard Sebastien , Charrier Josiane , Apostolidis Christos , Chatal Jean-Francois , Barbet Jacques , Davodeau François , Cherel Michel
Published: March 2006

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze different mechanisms (cell cycle synchronization, DNA damage, and apoptosis) that might underlie potential synergy between chemotherapy (paclitaxel or doxorubicin) and radioimmunotherapy with α radionuclides.

Experimental Design: Three multiple myeloma cell lines (LP1, RMI 8226, and U266) were treated with 213Bi-radiolabeled B-B4, a monoclonal antibody that recognizes syndecan-1 (CD138) 24 hours after paclitaxel (1 nmol/L) or doxorubicin (10 nmol/L) treatment. Cell survival was assessed using a clonogenic survival assay. Cell cycle modifications were assessed by propidium iodide staining and DNA strand breaks by the comet assay. Level of apoptosis was determined by Apo 2.7 staining.

Results: Radiation enhancement ratio showed that paclitaxel and doxorubicin were synergistic with α radioimmunotherapy. After a 24-hour incubation, paclitaxel and doxorubicin arrested all cell lines in the G2-M phase of the cell cycle. Doxorubicin combined with α radioimmunotherapy increased tail DNA in the RPMI 8226 cell line but not the LP1 or U266 cell lines compared with doxorubicin alone or α radioimmunotherapy alone. Neither doxorubicin nor paclitaxel combined with α radioimmunotherapy increased the level of apoptosis induced by either drug alone or α radioimmunotherapy alone.

Conclusion: Both cell cycle arrest in the G2-M phase and an increase in DNA double-strand breaks could lead to radiosensitization of cells by doxorubicin or paclitaxel, but apoptosis would not be involved in radiosensitization mechanisms.
Role of p21waf1/cip1 in effects of oxaliplatin in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Hata Taishi , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Ngan Chew Yee , Koi Minoru , Takagi Akimitsu , Damdinsuren Bazarragchaa , Yasui Masayoshi , Fujie Yujiro , Matsuzaki Takeshi , Hemmi Hiromichi , Xu Xundi , Kitani Kotaro , Seki Yosuke , Takemasa Ichiro , Ikeda Masataka , Sekimoto Mitsugu , Matsuura Nariaki , Monden Morito
Published: March 2006

Clinical studies have shown that oxaliplatin, a novel platinum derivative, is a potent chemotherapeutic agent for colorectal cancer when combined with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin. Although the toxic activity is based on covalent adducts between platinum and DNA, its actual biological behavior is mostly unknown. In an effort to explore the mechanism of tumor susceptibility to oxaliplatin, we examined the cytotoxic effects of oxaliplatin in colorectal cancer cell lines in reference to p53 gene status. Although p53 gene status did not clearly predict sensitivity to oxaliplatin, p53 wild-type cells including HCT116 were sensitive but HCT116 p53−/− were found to be resistant to oxaliplatin. Oxaliplatin caused strong p21waf1/cip1 induction and G0-G1 arrest in p53 wild-type cells, whereas cisplatin did not induce G0-G1 arrest. Assays using p53 wild but p21waf1/cip1 null HCT116 cells revealed that oxaliplatin did not show G0-G1 arrest and reduced growth-inhibitory effects, suggesting that p21waf1/cip1 may be a key element in oxaliplatin-treated p53 wild-type cells. Although HCT116 is DNA mismatch repair–deficient, a mismatch repair–proficient HCT116+ch3 cell line displayed similar responses with regard to p21waf1/cip1-mediated growth inhibition and G0-G1 arrest. In p53 mutant cells, on the other hand, oxaliplatin caused an abrupt transition from G1 to S phase and eventually resulted in G2-M arrest. This abrupt entry into S phase was associated with loss of the p21waf1/cip1 protein via proteasome-mediated degradation. These findings suggest that p21waf1/cip1 plays a role in oxaliplatin-mediated cell cycle and growth control in p53-dependent and -independent pathways.
Naloxone acts as an antagonist of estrogen receptor activity in MCF-7 cells
Authors: Farooqui Mariya , Geng Zhen H. , Stephenson Elliot J. , Zaveri Nurulain , Yee Douglas , Gupta Kalpna
Published: March 2006

Estrogen promotes the growth of breast cancer via estrogen receptors (ER). Earlier studies showed that the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone inhibits MCF-7 breast cancer growth in mice. We examined the cellular and molecular mechanism of naloxone antagonism of ERα activity in human MCF-7 cells. Naloxone (100 nmol/L) inhibited 17β-estradiol (E2)–induced (10 nmol/L) MCF-7 cell proliferation by 65% and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation. Naloxone blocked the E2-induced activation of ERα, with 85% inhibition after 5 minutes and 100% recovery after 60 minutes. This assay is based on quantitation of E2-activated nuclear ERα binding to the immobilized coactivator peptide. A significant decrease in E2-induced ERα transactivation was observed in the presence of naloxone in the estrogen response element-luciferase reporter assay (P < 0.05, E2 versus E2 + naloxone). Naloxone also blocked E2-induced down-regulation of ERα mRNA at 30 minutes and 6 hours. Although naloxone inhibits ERα activity directly, it also induces a cross-talk between μ-opioid receptor (MOR) and ERα. Immunoprecipitates with anti-MOR antibody showed the presence of ERα in cells incubated with E2 in the presence of naloxone but not in cells incubated with E2 or naloxone alone. Higher amounts of ERα associated with MOR after 60 minutes compared with 10 minutes of incubation. Naloxone inhibited E2-bovine serum albumin-FITC binding to plasma membrane–associated ERα and also inhibited the direct binding of [3H]E2 to ERα. Thus, naloxone modulates ERα activity directly as well as indirectly via MOR. This study suggests that naloxone-like compounds can be developed as novel therapeutic molecules for breast cancer therapy. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(3):611–20]
Gene therapy withE2F-1up-regulates the protein kinase PKR and inhibits growth of leiomyosarcomain vivo
Authors: Vorburger Stephan A. , Hetrakul Nophadol , Xia Weiya , Wilson-Heiner Marcia , Mirza Nadeem , Pollock Raphael E. , Feig Barry , Swisher Stephen G. , Hunt Kelly K.
Published: March 2006

Overexpression of the transcription factor E2F-1 induces apoptosis in a variety of carcinoma cells and inactivates murine double minute protein 2, a factor associated with poor prognosis in soft tissue sarcomas. We have shown previously that the double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase PKR plays an important role in mediating this apoptotic response in carcinoma cells to E2F-1. We sought to evaluate the potential of E2F-1 gene therapy in soft tissue sarcomas and to study the involvement of PKR in the response to E2F-1 overexpression in mesenchymal cells. A replication-deficient adenovirus carrying the E2F-1 gene (Ad5E2F) was used to induce E2F-1 overexpression in the p53 mutated leiomyosarcoma cell line, SKLMS-1. Western blot analysis confirmed E2F-1 overexpression and up-regulation of the antiapoptotic factor Bcl-2 48 hours following infection with Ad5E2F. Apoptosis in Ad5E2F-treated cells was confirmed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis and by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage and DNA fragmentation assays. Vector-dependent up-regulation of PKR correlated with the amount of Ad5E2F-induced apoptosis. In vivo treatment of SKLMS-1 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice with intratumoral injections of Ad5E2F at a dose of 2 × 1010 viral particles resulted in significant inhibition in tumor growth compared with control-treated animals (P < 0.016). Complete disappearance of all tumors was seen in two of seven mice in the Ad5E2F-treated animals. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor specimens showed overexpression of E2F-1 and up-regulation of PKR in Ad5E2F-treated tumors. These findings show that adenovirus-mediated overexpression of E2F-1 results in up-regulation of PKR and significant growth suppression of leiomyosarcomas in vivo. Taken together, these data suggest that E2F-1 gene therapy and PKR modulation might be a promising treatment strategy for these tumors that are highly resistant to conventional therapies.
Imatinib binding and cKIT inhibition is abrogated by the cKIT kinase domain I missense mutation Val654Ala
Authors: McLean Sean R. , Gana-Weisz Mali , Hartzoulakis Basil , Frow Richard , Whelan Jeremy , Selwood David , Boshoff Chris
Published: March 2006

Several activating mutations in the cKIT receptor tyrosine kinase are associated with the development and progression of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Treatment of GIST with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib (Gleevec, STI571; Novartis, Basel, Switzerland) increases patient survival. However, many patients develop resistance to imatinib following initial responses. We sequenced cKIT exons from two patients with GIST after the development of imatinib resistance, revealing a point mutation in kinase domain I (exon 13), Val654Ala, which has been associated previously with relapse and resistance. Molecular modeling of cKIT-imatinib complexes shows that this residue is located in the drug-binding site and that the Val654Ala mutation disrupts drug binding by removing hydrophobic contacts with the central diaminophenyl ring of imatinib. Loss of these contacts results in a destabilizing effect on two key hydrogen bonds between imatinib and Asp310 and Thr670 of cKIT. Calculations based on published crystallography data show an estimated destabilization energy of 2.25 kcal/mol in the Val654Ala cKIT compared with wild type. When present on the same cKIT allele as an oncogenic mutation, the Val654Ala mutation abolishes imatinib-mediated inhibition of cKIT phosphoactivation in vitro. These results highlight some of the structural and functional consequences of the Val654Ala mutation in relapsing imatinib-resistant GIST and emphasize the importance of tumor genetics in drug development and patient-specific cancer treatment regimens. [Mol Cancer Ther 2005;4(12):2005–15]
Novel angiogenic inhibitor DN-9693 that inhibits post-transcriptional induction of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) by vascular endothelial growth factor in human endothelial cells
Authors: Kondo Seiji , Tanaka Noriko , Kubota Satoshi , Mukudai Yoshiki , Yosimichi Gen , Sugahara Toshio , Takigawa Masaharu
Published: March 2006

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a potent angiogenic factor. In this report, we describe for the first time that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)–mediated induction of the ctgf/ccn2 gene was a post-transcriptional event that was inhibited by a novel angiogenic inhibitor, DN-9693, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Steady-state mRNA levels of ctgf/ccn2 were remarkably increased by VEGF in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the activity of the ctgf/ccn2 promoter was not responsive to VEGF as confirmed by a reporter gene assay and quantitative real-time PCR analysis. By employing a RNA degradation assay, we eventually found that the observed increase in the ctgf/ccn2 mRNA level was due to an increased stability of the mRNA induced by VEGF. DN-9693 at a dose of 0.1 to 2 ng/mL did not affect basal levels of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA; however, enhancement of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA expression by VEGF was specifically inhibited by DN-9693. Of importance, the inhibitory effects could be also ascribed to post-transcriptional regulation, because the VEGF-mediated increase in stability of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA was suppressed by DN-9693. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of DN-9693 on VEGF-induced activation of three subgroups of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways and found that DN-9693 blocked the activation of these pathways by VEGF. These results suggest that VEGF increases ctgf/ccn2 mRNA stability through mitogen-activated protein kinase–mediated intracellular signaling cascade(s), which can be inhibited posttranscriptionally by a novel angiogenic inhibitor, DN-9693, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(1):129–37]
Homozygous deletions of methylthioadenosine phosphorylase in human biliary tract cancers
Authors: Karikari Collins A. , Mullendore Michael , Eshleman James R. , Argani Pedram , Leoni Lorenzo M. , Chattopadhyay Shrikanta , Hidalgo Manuel , Maitra Anirban
Published: March 2006

The p16INK4A/CDKN2A gene on chromosome 9p21 is a site of frequent allelic loss in human cancers, and in a subset of cases, homozygous deletions at this locus encompass the telomeric methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) gene. The MTAP gene product is the principal enzyme involved in purine synthesis via the salvage pathway, such that MTAP-negative cancers are solely dependent on de novo purine synthesis mechanisms. Inhibitors of the de novo pathway can then be used to selectively blockade purine synthesis in cancer cells while causing minimal collateral damage to normal cells. In this study, we determine that 10 of 28 (35%) biliary tract cancers show complete lack of Mtap protein expression. In vitro analysis using a selective inhibitor of the de novo purine synthesis pathway, l-alanosine, shows robust growth inhibition in MTAP-negative biliary cancer cell lines CAK-1 and GBD-1 accompanied by striking depletion of intracellular ATP and failure to rescue this depletion via addition of exogenous methylthioadenosine, the principal substrate of the MTAP gene product; in contrast, no significant effects were observed in MTAP-expressing HuCCT1 and SNU308 cell lines. Colony formation studies confirmed that l-alanosine reduced both number and size of CAK-1 colonies in soft agar assays. Knockdown of Mtap protein by RNA interference in l-alanosine-resistant HuCCT1 cells conferred sensitivity to this agent, confirming that intracellular Mtap protein levels determine response to l-alanosine. Inhibitors of de novo purine synthesis can be a potential mechanism-based strategy for treatment of biliary tract cancers, one third of which show complete loss of MTAP function. [Mol Cancer Ther 2005;4(12):1860–6]
Enhancement of DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor–induced apoptosis by ursodeoxycholic acid
Authors: Ikegami Tadashi , Matsuzaki Yasushi , Al Rashid Maryam , Ceryak Susan , Zhang Yining , Bouscarel Bernard
Published: March 2006

Certain hydrophobic bile acids, including deoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, exert toxic effects not only in the liver but also in the intestine. Moreover, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which has protective actions against apoptosis in the liver, may have both protective and toxic effects in the intestine. The goal of the present study was to clarify the mechanisms responsible for the toxic effect of UDCA in intestinal HT-29 cells. Here, we show that UDCA potentiated both phosphatidylserine externalization and internucleosomal DNA fragmentation induced by SN-38, the most potent metabolite of the DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor, CPT-11. Furthermore, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential as well as mitochondrial membrane permeability transition induced by SN-38 was enhanced in the presence of UDCA, resulting in an increased lethality determined by colony-forming assay. This UDCA-induced increased apoptosis was not due to alteration of either intracellular accumulation of SN-38 or cell cycle arrest by SN-38. The increased apoptosis was best observed when UDCA was present after SN-38 stimulation and was independent of caspase-8 but dependent on caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation. Furthermore, UDCA enhanced SN-38-induced c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase activation. In conclusion, UDCA increases the apoptotic effects while decreasing the necrotic effects of SN-38 when added after the topoisomerase I inhibitor, showing potential clinical relevance as far as targeted cell death and improved wound healing are concerned. However, the use of this bile acid as an enhancer in antitumor chemotherapy should be further evaluated clinically. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(1):68–79]
Isothiazolones as inhibitors of PCAF and p300 histone acetyltransferase activity
Authors: Stimson Lindsay , Rowlands Martin G. , Newbatt Yvette M. , Smith Nicola F. , Raynaud Florence I. , Rogers Paul , Bavetsias Vassilios , Gorsuch Stephen , Jarman Michael , Bannister Andrew , Kouzarides Tony , McDonald Edward , Workman Paul , Aherne G. Wynne
Published: March 2006

Histone acetylation plays an important role in regulating the chromatin structure and is tightly regulated by two classes of enzyme, histone acetyltransferases (HAT) and histone deacetylases (HDAC). Deregulated HAT and HDAC activity plays a role in the development of a range of cancers. Consequently, inhibitors of these enzymes have potential as anticancer agents. Several HDAC inhibitors have been described; however, few inhibitors of HATs have been disclosed. Following a FlashPlate high-throughput screen, we identified a series of isothiazolone-based HAT inhibitors. Thirty-five N-substituted analogues inhibited both p300/cyclic AMP–responsive element binding protein–binding protein–associated factor (PCAF) and p300 (1 to >50 μmol/L, respectively) and the growth of a panel of human tumor cell lines (50% growth inhibition, 0.8 to >50 μmol/L). CCT077791 and CCT077792 decreased cellular acetylation in a time-dependent manner (2–48 hours of exposure) and a concentration-dependent manner (one to five times, 72 hours, 50% growth inhibition) in HCT116 and HT29 human colon tumor cell lines. CCT077791 reduced total acetylation of histones H3 and H4, levels of specific acetylated lysine marks, and acetylation of α-tubulin. Four and 24 hours of exposure to the compounds produced the same extent of growth inhibition as 72 hours of continuous exposure, suggesting that growth arrest was an early event. Chemical reactivity of these compounds, as measured by covalent protein binding and loss of HAT inhibition in the presence of DTT, indicated that reaction with thiol groups might be important in their mechanism of action. As one of the first series of small-molecule inhibitors of HAT activity, further analogue synthesis is being pursued to examine the potential scope for reducing chemical reactivity while maintaining HAT inhibition.
A role for PKCζ in potentiation of the topoisomerase II activity and etoposide cytotoxicity by wortmannin
Authors: Reis Caroline , Giocanti Nicole , Hennequin Christophe , Mégnin-Chanet Frédérique , Fernet Marie , Filomenko Rodolphe , Bettaieb Ali , Solary Eric , Favaudon Vincent
Published: March 2006

Enhanced cytotoxicity of etoposide by wortmannin, an inhibitor of enzymes holding a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase domain, was investigated in eight cell lines proficient or deficient for DNA double-strand break repair. Wortmannin stimulated the decatenating activity of topoisomerase II, promoted etoposide-induced accumulation of DNA double-strand breaks, shifted the specificity for cell killing by etoposide from the S to G1 phase of the cell cycle, and potentiated the cytotoxicity of etoposide through two mechanisms. (a) Sensitization to high, micromolar amounts of etoposide required integrity of the nonhomologous end-joining repair pathway. (b) Wortmannin dramatically increased the susceptibility to low, submicromolar amounts of etoposide in a large fraction of the cell population irrespective of the status of ATM, Ku86, and DNA-PKCS. It is shown that this process correlates depression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase–dependent phosphorylation of the atypical, ζ isoform of protein kinase C (PKCζ). Stable expression of a dominant-negative, kinase-dead mutant of PKCζ in a tumor cell line reproduced the hypersensitivity pattern induced by wortmannin. The results are consistent with up-regulation of the topoisomerase II activity in relation to inactivation of PKCζ and indicate that PKCζ may be a useful target to improve the efficiency of topoisomerase II poisons at low concentration.
Transcriptional targeting modalities in breast cancer gene therapy using adenovirus vectors controlled by α-lactalbumin promoter
Authors: Li Xiong , Zhang Jie , Gao Huanling , Vieth Edyta , Bae Kyung-Hee , Zhang Yan-Ping , Lee Sang-Jin , Raikwar Sudhanshu , Gardner Thomas A. , Hutchins Gary D. , VanderPutten Dale , Kao Chinghai , Jeng Meei-Huey
Published: March 2006

The breast-specific antigen α-lactalbumin is expressed in >60% of breast cancer tissues. To evaluate the effect of gene therapy for breast cancer by controlling adenovirus replication with human α-lactalbumin promoter, we investigated the activity of a 762-bp human α-lactalbumin promoter. α-Lactalbumin promoter showed significantly higher activity in MDA-MB-435S and T47D breast cancer cells than in normal breast cell lines or other tumor cell lines. We then developed two novel breast cancer–restricted replicative adenoviruses, AdALAE1a and AdE1aALAE1b. In AdALAE1a, expression of adenoviral E1a gene is under the control of α-lactalbumin promoter, and in AdE1aALAE1b, expression of both E1a and E1b genes is under the control of a single α-lactalbumin promoter. Both breast cancer–restricted replicative adenoviruses showed viral replication efficiency and tumor cell-killing capability similar to wild-type adenovirus in MDA-MB-435S and T47D cells. The replication efficiency and tumor cell-killing capability of both viruses were attenuated significantly in cells that did not support α-lactalbumin promoter. AdE1aALAE1b showed better breast cancer–restricted replication than AdALAE1a, suggesting that a transcriptional targeting modality with α-lactalbumin promoter controlling both E1a and E1b gene expression is superior to α-lactalbumin promoter controlling only E1a gene expression. Importantly, we found that AdE1aALAE1b could be used to target hormone-independent breast tumors in vivo by inhibiting the growth of MDA-MB-435S s.c. tumors. These data showed that α-lactalbumin promoter could regulate the replication of adenovirus to target hormone-independent breast cancers, suggesting that α-lactalbumin promoter can be used to develop a novel therapeutic modality for hormone-independent breast cancer. [Mol Cancer Ther 2005;4(12):1850–9]
Angiogenesis and tumor growth inhibition by a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor targeting radiation-induced invasion
Authors: Kaliski Alexandre , Maggiorella Laurence , Cengel Keith A. , Mathe Denis , Rouffiac Valerie , Opolon Paule , Lassau Nathalie , Bourhis Jean , Deutsch Eric
Published: March 2006

In this study, we have evaluated the interactions between ionizing radiation and a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor. Using Matrigel invasion assays, we show that ionizing radiation induced a dose-dependent increase in the invasive phenotype of cultured B16 melanoma cells and that conditioned medium from these irradiated B16 cells promoted endothelial cell [human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC)] invasiveness. To determine whether the radiation-induced changes in invasive phenotype could be due to changes in MMP activation, we have tested the ability of the MMP inhibitor Metastat to modulate the ionizing radiation–induced invasive phenotype using both an in vitro melanoma model and a mouse s.c. tumor model. In these studies, Metastat inhibited the ionizing radiation–induced invasive phenotype in cultured B16 cells and similarly inhibited the increase in HMEC invasion induced by conditioned medium from irradiated B16 cells. Conversely, ionizing radiation increased B16 MMP-2 activity and the conditioned medium from irradiated B16 induced HMEC MMP-2 activity. To further investigate the interaction between ionizing radiation and MMP activation, we then studied the effects of ionizing radiation on downstream effectors of the MMP system. We found that ionizing radiation induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion by B16 melanoma cells and that this secretion was inhibited by Metastat. Similarly, conditioned medium from irradiated B16 was also able to increase VEGF secretion in HMECs. Moreover, ionizing radiation–induced melanoma cell invasiveness was partially inhibited by an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody. In vivo, ionizing radiation plus concomitant Metastat yielded the greatest growth inhibition of melanoma s.c. tumors and this effect correlated with inhibition of angiogenesis as measured by both Doppler ultrasonography and platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 staining. Finally, ionizing radiation modulated MMP-2, VEGF, and VEGF receptor expression in these tumor samples using immunohistochemistry. Taken together, these results suggest that there is an ionizing radiation–induced tumor survival pathway and a possible paracrine ionizing radiation–induced stimulatory pathway emanating from tumor cells toward the endothelial bed that is impeded when Metastat is given simultaneously. This model could provide in vivo evidence of the antitumor efficacy of combining a MMP inhibitor with ionizing radiation to target radiation-induced invasion and angiogenesis.
Zinc ribbon domain-containing 1 (ZNRD1) mediates multidrug resistance of leukemia cells through regulation of P-glycoprotein and Bcl-2
Authors: Hong Liu , Piao Ying , Han Yu , Wang Jun , Zhang Xiaoyin , Du Yulei , Cao Shanshan , Qiao Taidong , Chen Zhen , Fan Daiming
Published: March 2006

Here, we investigated the role of zinc ribbon domain-containing 1 (ZNRD1) in multidrug resistance (MDR) of leukemia cells and the possible underlying mechanisms. ZNRD1 was found overexpressed in the vincristine-induced MDR leukemia cell HL-60/vincristine moreso than its parental cell HL-60. Up-regulation of ZNRD1 expression could confer resistance of both P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-related and P-gp-nonrelated drugs on HL-60 cells and suppress Adriamycin-induced apoptosis accompanied by decreased accumulation and increased releasing amount of Adriamycin. ZNRD1 could significantly up-regulate the expression of P-gp, Bcl-2, and the transcription of the MDR1 gene but not alter the expression of MDR-associated protein, glutathione S-transferase activity, or intracellular glutathione content in leukemia cells. In addition, inhibition of ZNRD1 expression by RNA interference or P-gp inhibitor could partially reverse ZNRD1-mediated MDR. The further study of the biological functions of ZNRD1 may be helpful for understanding the mechanisms of MDR of leukemia and developing possible strategies to treat leukemia. [Mol Cancer Ther 2005;4(12):1936–42]
Paclitaxel-resistant cells have a mutation in the paclitaxel-binding region of β-tubulin (Asp26Glu) and less stable microtubules
Authors: Hari Malathi , Loganzo Frank , Annable Tami , Tan Xingzhi , Musto Sylvia , Morilla Daniel B. , Nettles James H. , Snyder James P. , Greenberger Lee M.
Published: March 2006

Resistance to paclitaxel-based therapy is frequently encountered in the clinic. The mechanisms of intrinsic or acquired paclitaxel resistance are not well understood. We sought to characterize the resistance mechanisms that develop upon chronic exposure of a cancer cell line to paclitaxel in the presence of the P-glycoprotein reversal agent, CL-347099. The epidermoid tumor line KB-3-1 was exposed to increasing concentrations of paclitaxel and 5 μmol/L CL-347099 for up to 1 year. Cells grown in 15 nmol/L paclitaxel plus CL-347099 (KB-15-PTX/099) developed 18-fold resistance to paclitaxel and were dependent upon paclitaxel for maximal growth. They grew well and retained resistance to paclitaxel when grown in athymic mice. Cross-resistance (3- to 5-fold) was observed in tissue culture to docetaxel, the novel taxane MAC-321, and epothilone B. Collateral sensitivity (∼3-fold) was observed to the depolymerizing agents vinblastine, dolastatin-10, and HTI-286. KB-15-PTX/099–resistant cells did not overexpress P-glycoprotein nor did they have an alteration of [14C]paclitaxel accumulation compared with parental cells. However, a novel point mutation (T to A) resulting in Asp26 to glutamate substitution in class I (M40) β-tubulin was found. Based on an electron crystallography structure of Zn-stabilized tubulin sheets, the phenyl ring of C-3′ NHCO-C6H5 of paclitaxel makes contact with Asp26 of β-tubulin, suggesting a ligand-induced mutation. Optimized model complexes of paclitaxel, docetaxel, and MAC-321 in β-tubulin show a novel hydrogen bonding pattern for the glutamate mutant and rationalize the observed resistance profiles. However, a mutation in the paclitaxel binding pocket does not explain the phenotype completely. KB-15-PTX/099 cells have impaired microtubule stability as determined by a reduced percentage of tubulin in microtubules and reflected by less acetylated tubulin. These results suggest that a mutation in tubulin might affect microtubule stability as well as drug binding and contribute to the observed resistance profile. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(2):270–8]
Erythropoietin inhibits apoptosis in breast cancer cells via an Akt-dependent pathway without modulating in vivo chemosensitivity
Authors: Hardee Matthew E. , Rabbani Zahid N. , Arcasoy Murat O. , Kirkpatrick John P. , Vujaskovic Zeljko , Dewhirst Mark W. , Blackwell Kimberly L.
Published: March 2006

Evidence for erythropoietin signaling has been shown in several nonhematopoietic tissues, including many tumor types. Clinically, recombinant erythropoietin treatment of malignancy-related anemia has yet to be definitively associated with any modulation of chemotherapy or radiotherapy efficacy. Preclinically, recombinant erythropoietin has been shown to increase tumor oxygenation, but the direct effects of recombinant erythropoietin on tumor cells that express erythropoietin receptor are not yet fully characterized. This study examined the effects of exogenous recombinant erythropoietin on rodent mammary adenocarcinoma cells (R3230) in vitro and in vivo, and determined the effects of systemic recombinant erythropoietin on tumor growth delay in Taxol treatment. We showed that systemic recombinant erythropoietin treatment of rats bearing R3230 mammary carcinomas induced an increase in phospho-Akt levels within tumor cells. This was associated with a decrease in the frequency of apoptotic cells in tumors from recombinant erythropoietin–treated animals, but did not noticeably affect tumor growth rate. In vitro studies revealed that not only does recombinant erythropoietin induce Akt phosphorylation, but it also stimulates phosphorylation of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinases, Erk1 and Erk2. Activation of erythropoietin-mediated signaling in R3230 cells was associated with dose-dependent inhibition of apoptosis in response to Taxol treatment and serum starvation, an effect that was blocked by the addition of a phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase inhibitor. Despite its cytoprotective effects in vitro, recombinant erythropoietin did not significantly affect tumor growth delay in Taxol treatment. This study shows direct recombinant erythropoietin–mediated activation of specific intracellular signaling pathways in mammary adenocarcinoma cells in vivo and in vitro. Modulation of tumor apoptosis pathways by recombinant erythropoietin may have negative consequences by decreasing the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of erythropoietin receptor–positive breast tumors, although it did not have any obvious effects on growth with or without chemotherapy in this model. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(2):356–61]
Resveratrol inhibits hypoxia-induced accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and VEGF expression in human tongue squamous cell carcinoma and hepatoma cells
Authors: Zhang Qunzhou , Tang Xudong , Lu Qing Yi , Zhang Zuo Feng , Brown Jimmy , Le Anh D.
Published: March 2006

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is overexpressed in many human tumors and their metastases, and is closely associated with a more aggressive tumor phenotype. In this study, we investigated the effect of resveratrol, a natural product commonly found in grapes and various other fruits, on hypoxia-induced HIF-1α protein accumulation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in human tongue squamous cell carcinomas and hepatoma cells. Our results showed that resveratrol significantly inhibited both basal level and hypoxia-induced HIF-1α protein accumulation in cancer cells, but did not affect HIF-1α mRNA levels. Pretreatment of cells with resveratrol significantly reduced hypoxia-induced VEGF promoter activities and VEGF expression at both mRNA and protein levels. The mechanism of resveratrol inhibition of hypoxia-induced HIF-1α accumulation seems to involve a gradually shortened half-life of HIF-1α protein caused by an enhanced protein degradation through the 26S proteasome system. In addition, resveratrol remarkably inhibited hypoxia-mediated activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and Akt, leading to a marked decrease in hypoxia-induced HIF-1α protein accumulation and VEGF transcriptional activation. Functionally, we observed that resveratrol also significantly inhibited the hypoxia-stimulated invasiveness of cancer cells. These data suggested that HIF-1α/VEGF could be a promising drug target for resveratrol in the development of an effective chemopreventive and anticancer therapy in human cancers.
Enhanced antiproliferative effects of alkoxyalkyl esters of cidofovir in human cervical cancer cells in vitro
Authors: Hostetler Karl Y. , Rought Steffney , Aldern Kathy A. , Trahan Julissa , Beadle James R. , Corbeil Jacques
Published: March 2006

Nearly all cervical cancers are associated with the high-risk subtypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) expressing the E6 and E7 oncoproteins. The E6 and E7 oncoproteins reduce cellular levels of the p53 and the retinoblastoma (pRb) tumor suppressors, respectively, and represent an important component of the malignant phenotype. Several groups have shown that treatment with cidofovir suppresses levels of E6 and E7, restoring cellular p53 and pRb levels, in turn slowing cell replication and increasing the susceptibility of the cancer cells to radiation and apoptosis. Recently, our group synthesized alkoxyalkyl esters of cidofovir, which were found to be >100 times more active than unmodified cidofovir in vitro against various double-stranded DNA viruses, including cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, adenoviruses, cowpox, vaccinia, and variola viruses. We compared the activity of octadecyloxyethyl-cidofovir (ODE-CDV) and oleyloxyethyl-cidofovir (OLE-CDV) with that of unmodified cidofovir against both HPV-negative and HPV-positive cervical cancer cells. We compared the antiproliferation activity in CaSki, HeLa, and Me-180 cells, prototypical HPV-positive cell lines bearing the HPV-16, HPV-18, and HPV-68 high-risk subtypes, with the activity in C33A cells, a cervical cancer cell line lacking HPV, and in nonmalignant primary human foreskin fibroblast cells. OLE-CDV and ODE-CDV were several logs more potent than cidofovir in CaSki, Me-180, HeLa, and C33A cervical cancer cells as determined by 2,3-bis[2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl]-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide inner salt proliferation assay. Cell cycle analysis indicates that the cidofovir analogues interfere with passage of dividing cells through the S phase. ODE-CDV and OLE-CDV were 500 to 17,000 times more active than cidofovir in inhibiting the growth of cervical cancer cells. ODE-CDV and OLE-CDV showed selectivity for cervical cancer cells versus nonmalignant human foreskin fibroblast cells and warrant further investigation as potential therapies for cervical cancer.[Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(1):156–9]
Improvement by solid dispersion of the bioavailability of KRN633, a selective inhibitor of VEGF receptor-2 tyrosine kinase, and identification of its potential therapeutic window
Authors: Matsunaga Naoki , Nakamura Kazuhide , Yamamoto Atsushi , Taguchi Eri , Tsunoda Hiromi , Takahashi Kazumi
Published: March 2006

KRN633 is a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinases. However, it is poorly water-soluble; consequently, relatively high doses are required to achieve substantial in vivo tumor growth suppression after oral administration. We subjected KRN633 to the solid dispersion technique to improve its solubility, absorption, and antitumor efficacy after oral administration. This technique transformed the drug into an amorphous state and dramatically improved its dissolution rate. It also enhanced the bioavailability of the drug in rats by ∼7.5-fold. The solid dispersion form of KRN633 also dramatically inhibited human tumor growth in murine and rat xenograft models: similar rates of tumor growth inhibition were obtained with 10- to 25-fold lower doses of the solid dispersion preparation relative to the pure drug in its crystalline state. Histologic analysis of tumors treated with the solid dispersion preparation revealed a significant reduction in microvessel density at much lower doses when compared with the crystalline form preparation. In addition, a dose-finding study using the solid dispersion form in a rat xenograft model revealed that there was a substantial range of doses at which KRN633 in the solid dispersion form showed significant antitumor activity but did not induce weight loss or elevate total urinary protein levels. These data suggest that the solid dispersion technique is an effective approach for developing KRN633 drug products and that KRN633 in the solid dispersion form may be a highly potent, orally available drug with a wide therapeutic window for diseases associated with abnormal angiogenesis. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(1):80–8]
Recombinant epoetins do not stimulate tumor growth in erythropoietin receptor–positive breast carcinoma models
Authors: LaMontagne Kenneth R. , Butler Jeannene , Marshall Deborah J. , Tullai Jennifer , Gechtman Ze'ev , Hall Chassidy , Meshaw Alan , Farrell Francis X.
Published: March 2006

We investigated the significance of erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) expression following treatment with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO; epoetin α) and the effect of recombinant epoetins (epoetin α, epoetin β, and darbepoetin α) alone or in combination with anticancer therapy on tumor growth in two well-established preclinical models of breast carcinoma (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines). Expression and localization of EPOR under hypoxic and normoxic conditions in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were evaluated by immunoblotting, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry. EPOR binding was evaluated using [125I]rHuEPO. Proliferation, migration, and signaling in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells following treatment with rHuEPO were evaluated. Tumor growth was assessed following administration of recombinant epoetins alone and in combination with paclitaxel (anticancer therapy) in orthotopically implanted MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast carcinoma xenograft models in athymic mice. EPOR expression was detected in both tumor cell lines. EPOR localization was found to be exclusively cytosolic and no specific [125I]rHuEPO binding was observed. There was no stimulated migration, proliferation, or activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and AKT following rHuEPO treatment. In mice, treatment with recombinant epoetins alone and in combination with paclitaxel resulted in equivalent tumor burdens compared with vehicle-treated controls. Results from our study suggest that although EPOR expression was observed in two well-established breast carcinoma cell lines, it was localized to a cytosolic distribution and did not transduce a signaling cascade in tumors that leads to tumor growth. The addition of recombinant epoetins to paclitaxel did not affect the outcome of paclitaxel therapy in breast carcinoma xenograft models. These results show that recombinant epoetins do not evoke a physiologic response on EPOR-bearing tumor cells as assessed by numerous variables, including growth, migration, and cytotoxic challenge in preclinical in vivo tumor models. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(2):347–55]
The cellular phenotype of AZ703, a novel selective imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor
Authors: Byth Kate F. , Geh Catherine , Forder Cheryl L. , Oakes Sandra E. , Thomas Andrew P.
Published: March 2006

Because the majority of cancers exhibit direct or indirect deregulation of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) function, members of the CDK family are attractive targets for the development of anticancer agents. As part of an ongoing program, novel imidazopyridines were identified and developed as potent and selective CDK inhibitors. Here, we describe data on the in vitro biological activities of one of these compounds, AZ703. The selectivity profile of AZ703 was investigated in kinase assays against a range of CDK enzymes as well as a panel of protein kinases in vitro. IC50s were assessed against different tumor cell lines in vitro. The mechanism of action of AZ703 was determined by observing changes in phosphorylation of CDK substrates and cell cycle effects on tumor and normal cells. In vitro studies revealed that AZ703 is a selective inhibitor of CDK1 and CDK2 and displays a mode of action consistent with the induction of G1-, S-, and G2-M-phase arrest. AZ703 also showed potent antiproliferative activity across a wide range of tumor cell lines in vitro. Moreover, AZ703 induced reversible blockade of normal cells while causing tumor cells to undergo apoptosis. We have identified AZ703 as a novel selective imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine CDK inhibitor that shows promising antitumor properties in vitro. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(3):655–64]
Suppression of tumor cell invasion by cyclooxygenase inhibitors is mediated by thrombospondin-1 via the early growth response gene Egr-1
Authors: Moon Yuseok , Bottone Frank G. , McEntee Michael F. , Eling Thomas E.
Published: March 2006

Cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors have antitumorigenic activity and increase the expression of the early growth response gene Egr-1, a tumor suppressor gene and transcription factor. In this study, we have investigated the gene regulatory and anti-invasive activity of two traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), sulindac sulfide and indomethacin. These compounds inhibited tumor cell invasion and induced Egr-1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. Overexpression of Egr-1 reduced cellular invasion in the Matrigel system, whereas suppression of Egr-1 by small interference RNA (siRNA) attenuated the inhibition of Matrigel invasion by these compounds, indicating that Egr-1 is responsible for the decrease in invasion reported following treatment with NSAIDs. Egr-1-overexpressing cells were analyzed for genes involved in invasion and metastasis. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) an antiangiogenic and anti-invasion protein was up-regulated by Egr-1 overexpression, which was confirmed following treatment with sulindac sulfide. Furthermore, the induction of TSP-1 by sulindac sulfide was blocked by Egr-1 siRNA. When TSP-1 was sequestered by the addition of anti-TSP-1 antibody, the inhibition of invasion by sulindac sulfide was attenuated, indicating that TSP-1 is involved in the inhibition of invasion by NSAIDs. We used the Min mouse model to determine if sulindac sulfide would increase Egr-1 and TSP-1 in vivo, because this model is widely used to study the effects of NSAIDs on tumor formation. Treatment of Min mice with concentrations of sulindac sulfide that inhibit tumor formation increased the expression of Egr-1 and TSP-1 in colonic tissues and in the polyps of these mice. This is the first report suggesting that COX inhibitors suppress tumor cell invasion via TSP-1, which occurs downstream of Egr-1.
Antimitogenic and chemosensitizing effects of the methylation inhibitor zebularine in ovarian cancer
Authors: Balch Curtis , Yan Pearlly , Craft Teresa , Young Suzanne , Skalnik David G. , Huang Tim H-M. , Nephew Kenneth P.
Published: March 2006

Deoxycytosine methylation within CpG islands of tumor suppressor genes plays a prominent role in the development and progression of drug-resistant ovarian cancer. Consequently, epigenetic therapies directed toward tumor suppressor demethylation/reexpression could potentially reverse malignant phenotypes and chemosensitize recalcitrant tumors. In this report, we examined the demethylating agent zebularine [1-(β-d-ribofuranosyl)-1,2-dihydropyrimidin-2-one], in comparison with the well-known methylation inhibitor 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC), for its ability to inhibit ovarian cancer cell proliferation and to demethylate and induce tumor suppressor genes. Zebularine exerted significant (>5-aza-dC) antiproliferative effects against the ovarian cancer cell lines Hey, A2780, and the cisplatin-resistant A2780/CP in a dose-dependent manner (65% versus 35% inhibition at 48 hours, zebularine versus 5-aza-dC). Moreover, 48-hour treatment with 0.2 mmol/L zebularine significantly induced demethylation of the tumor suppressors ras-associated domain family 1A and human MutL homologue-1. RASSF1A gene reexpression was also observed, as was reexpression of two other tumor suppressors, ARHI and BLU, although levels differed from those induced by 5-aza-dC. Global analyses of DNA methylation revealed similar overall demethylation (2.5- to 3-fold) by 5-aza-dC and zebularine as determined by methyl acceptance assay. However, differences in demethylation of individual loci were observed as determined by differential methylation hybridization. Finally, we found that zebularine could resensitize the drug-resistant cell line A2780/CP to cisplatin, with a 16-fold reduction in the IC50 of that conventional agent. In summary, zebularine seems to be a promising clinical candidate, singly or combined with conventional regimens, for the therapy of drug-resistant ovarian cancer.