bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Temporal Molecular and Biological Assessment of an Erlotinib-Resistant Lung Adenocarcinoma Model Reveals Markers of Tumor Progression and Treatment Response
Authors: Weaver Zoë , Difilippantonio Simone , Carretero Julian , Martin Philip L. , El Meskini Rajaa , Iacovelli Anthony J. , Gumprecht Michelle , Kulaga Alan , Guerin Theresa , Schlomer Jerome , Baran Maureen , Kozlov Serguei , McCann Thomas , Mena Salvador , Al-Shahrour Fatima , Alexander Danny , Wong Kwok-Kin , Van Dyke Terry
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Patients with lung cancer with activating mutations in the EGF receptor (EGFR) kinase, who are treated long-term with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), often develop secondary mutations in EGFR associated with resistance. Mice engineered to develop lung adenocarcinomas driven by the human EGFR T790M resistance mutation are similarly resistant to the EGFR TKI erlotinib. By tumor volume endpoint analysis, these mouse tumors respond to BIBW 2992 (an irreversible EGFR/HER2 TKI) and rapamycin combination therapy. To correlate EGFR-driven changes in the lung with response to drug treatment, we conducted an integrative analysis of global transcriptome and metabolite profiling compared with quantitative imaging and histopathology at several time points during tumor progression and treatment. Responses to single-drug treatments were temporary, whereas combination therapy elicited a sustained response. During tumor development, metabolomic signatures indicated a shift to high anabolic activity and suppression of antitumor programs with 11 metabolites consistently present in both lung tissue and blood. Combination drug treatment reversed many of the molecular changes found in tumored lung. Data integration linking cancer signaling networks with metabolic activity identified key pathways such as glutamine and glutathione metabolism that signified response to single or dual treatments. Results from combination drug treatment suggest that metabolic transcriptional control through C-MYC and SREBP, as well as ELK1, NRF1, and NRF2, depends on both EGFR and mTORC1 signaling. Our findings establish the importance of kinetic therapeutic studies in preclinical assessment and provide in vivo evidence that TKI-mediated antiproliferative effects also manifest in specific metabolic regulation. Cancer Res; 72(22); 5921–33. ©2012 AACR.
Data from MiR-96 Downregulates REV1 and RAD51 to Promote Cellular Sensitivity to Cisplatin and PARP Inhibition
Authors: Wang Yemin , Huang Jen-Wei , Calses Philamer , Kemp Christopher J. , Taniguchi Toshiyasu
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Cell survival after DNA damage relies on DNA repair, the abrogation of which causes genomic instability. The DNA repair protein RAD51 and the trans-lesion synthesis DNA polymerase REV1 are required for resistance to DNA interstrand cross-linking agents such as cisplatin. In this study, we show that overexpression of miR-96 in human cancer cells reduces the levels of RAD51 and REV1 and impacts the cellular response to agents that cause DNA damage. MiR-96 directly targeted the coding region of RAD51 and the 3′-untranslated region of REV1. Overexpression of miR-96 decreased the efficiency of homologous recombination and enhanced sensitivity to the PARP inhibitor AZD2281 in vitro and to cisplatin both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our findings indicate that miR-96 regulates DNA repair and chemosensitivity by repressing RAD51 and REV1. As a therapeutic candidate, miR-96 may improve chemotherapeutic efficacy by increasing the sensitivity of cancer cells to DNA damage. Cancer Res; 72(16); 4037–46. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 Controls Cross-talk between Apoptosis and Autophagy to Determine Antiestrogen Responsiveness
Authors: Cook Katherine L. , Shajahan Ayesha N. , Wärri Anni , Jin Lu , Hilakivi-Clarke Leena A. , Clarke Robert
Published: March 2024

Abstract
While more than 70% of breast cancers express estrogen receptor-α (ER+), endocrine therapies targeting these receptors often fail. The molecular mechanisms that underlie treatment resistance remain unclear. We investigated the potential role of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) in mediating estrogen resistance. Human breast tumors showed increased GRP78 expression when compared with normal breast tissues. However, GRP78 expression was reduced in ER+ breast tumors compared with HER2-amplifed or triple-negative breast tumors. ER+ antiestrogen-resistant cells and ER+ tumors with an acquired resistant antiestrogen phenotype were both shown to overexpress GRP78, which was not observed in cases of de novo resistance. Knockdown of GRP78 restored antiestrogen sensitivity in resistant cells, and overexpression of GRP78 promoted resistance in sensitive cells. Mechanistically, GRP78 integrated multiple cellular signaling pathways to inhibit apoptosis and stimulate prosurvival autophagy, which was dependent on TSC2/AMPK-mediated mTOR inhibition but not on beclin-1. Inhibition of autophagy prevented GRP78-mediated endocrine resistance, whereas caspase inhibition abrogated the resensitization that resulted from GRP78 loss. Simultaneous knockdown of GRP78 and beclin-1 synergistically restored antiestrogen sensitivity in resistant cells. Together, our findings reveal a novel role for GRP78 in the integration of cellular signaling pathways including the unfolded protein response, apoptosis, and autophagy to determine cell fate in response to antiestrogen therapy. Cancer Res; 72(13); 3337–49. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Ovarian Cancer Risk Associated with Inherited Inflammation-Related Variants
Authors: White Kristin L. , Schildkraut Joellen M. , Palmieri Rachel T. , Iversen Edwin S. , Berchuck Andrew , Vierkant Robert A. , Rider David N. , Charbonneau Bridget , Cicek Mine S. , Sutphen Rebecca , Birrer Michael J. , Pharoah Paul P.D. , Song Honglin , Tyrer Jonathan , Gayther Simon A. , Ramus Susan J. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Yang Hannah P. , Garcia-Closas Montserrat , Phelan Catherine M. , Cunningham Julie M. , Fridley Brooke L. , Sellers Thomas A. , Goode Ellen L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The importance of inflammation pathways to the development of many human cancers prompted us to examine the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in inflammation-related genes and risk of ovarian cancer. In a multisite case–control study, we genotyped SNPs in a large panel of inflammatory genes in 930 epithelial ovarian cancer cases and 1,037 controls using a custom array and analyzed by logistic regression. SNPs with P < 0.10 were evaluated among 3,143 cases and 2,102 controls from the Follow-up of Ovarian Cancer Genetic Association and Interaction Studies (FOCI) post-GWAS collaboration. Combined analysis revealed association with SNPs rs17561 and rs4848300 in the interleukin gene IL1A which varied by histologic subtype (Pheterogeneity = 0.03). For example, IL1A rs17561, which correlates with numerous inflammatory phenotypes, was associated with decreased risk of clear cell, mucinous, and endometrioid subtype, but not with the most common serous subtype. Genotype at rs1864414 in the arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase ALOX5 was also associated with decreased risk. Thus, inherited variation in IL1A and ALOX5 seems to affect ovarian cancer risk which, for IL1A, is limited to rarer subtypes. Given the importance of inflammation in tumorigenesis and growing evidence of subtype-specific features in ovarian cancer, functional investigations will be important to help clarify the importance of inherited variation related to inflammation in ovarian carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 72(5); 1064–9. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Defective NF-κB Signaling in Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer Cells Leads to Enhanced Apoptosis by Double-Stranded RNA
Authors: Umemura Naoki , Zhu Jianzhong , Mburu Yvonne K. , Forero Adriana , Hsieh Paishiun N. , Muthuswamy Ravikumar , Kalinski Pawel , Ferris Robert L. , Sarkar Saumendra N.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Ligands to several Toll-like receptors (TLR), which mediate innate immune responses and chronic inflammation have been used as adjuvants to immunotherapy to enhance their antitumor activity. In particular, double-stranded RNAs that are cognate ligands of TLR3 have been used to trigger proapoptotic activity in cancer cells. However, a mechanistic understanding of TLR3-mediated apoptosis and its potential involvement in controlling tumor metastasis has been lacking. In this study, we used paired cell lines and fresh tumor specimens, derived from autologous primary and metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, to investigate the role of TLR3 signaling in metastatic progression. Compared with primary tumor cells, metastatic tumor cells were highly sensitive to TLR3-mediated apoptosis after double-stranded RNA treatment. Enhanced apoptosis in metastatic cells was dependent on double-stranded RNA and TLR3 and also the TLR3 effector signaling protein TRIF. Downstream responses requiring NF-κB were critical for apoptosis in metastatic cells, the defects in which could be resuscitated by alternative pathways of NF-κB activation. By elucidating how TLR3 ligands trigger apoptosis in metastatic cells, our findings suggest insights into how to improve their clinical use. Cancer Res; 72(1); 45–55. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Inactivation of the Dlc1 Gene Cooperates with Downregulation of p15INK4b and p16Ink4a, Leading to Neoplastic Transformation and Poor Prognosis in Human Cancer
Authors: Qian Xiaolan , Durkin Marian E. , Wang Dunrui , Tripathi Brajendra K. , Olson Lyra , Yang Xu-Yu , Vass William C. , Popescu Nicholas C. , Lowy Douglas R.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The tumor suppressor gene deleted in liver cancer-1 (DLC1), which encodes a protein with strong RhoGAP (GTPase activating protein) activity and weak Cdc42GAP activity, is inactivated in various human malignancies. Following Dlc1 inactivation, mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEF) with a conditional Dlc1 knockout allele reproducibly underwent neoplastic transformation. In addition to inactivation of Dlc1 and increased activity of Rho and Cdc42, transformation depended on the subsequent decreased expression of the Cdk4/6 inhibitors p15Ink4b and p16Ink4a together with increased expression and activation of Cdk4/6. The level of expression of these cell-cycle regulatory genes was relevant to human tumors with low DLC1 expression. Analysis of publicly available annotated datasets of lung and colon cancer with gene expression microarray profiles indicated that, in pairwise comparisons, low DLC1 expression occurred frequently together (P < 0.01) with downregulation of p15Ink4b or p16Ink4a or upregulation of CDK4 or CDK6. In addition, an unfavorable prognosis (P < 0.05) was associated with low DLC1 and low p15Ink4b in lung cancer and colon cancer, low DLC1 and low p16Ink4a in lung cancer, low DLC1 and high CDK4 in lung cancer, and low DLC1 and high CDK6 in colon cancer. Thus, several genes and biochemical activities collaborate with the inactivation of DLC1 to give rise to cell transformation in MEFs, and the identified genes are relevant to human tumors with low DLC1 expression. Cancer Res; 72(22); 5900–11. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Hedgehog Overexpression Is Associated with Stromal Interactions and Predicts for Poor Outcome in Breast Cancer
Authors: O'Toole Sandra A. , Machalek Dorothy A. , Shearer Robert F. , Millar Ewan K.A. , Nair Radhika , Schofield Peter , McLeod Duncan , Cooper Caroline L. , McNeil Catriona M. , McFarland Andrea , Nguyen Akira , Ormandy Christopher J. , Qiu Min Ru , Rabinovich Brian , Martelotto Luciano G. , Vu Duc , Hannigan Gregory E. , Musgrove Elizabeth A. , Christ Daniel , Sutherland Robert L. , Watkins D. Neil , Swarbrick Alexander
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays an important role in several malignancies but its clinical significance in breast cancer is unclear. In a cohort of 279 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast, expression of Hh ligand was significantly associated with increased risk of metastasis, breast cancer-specific death, and a basal-like phenotype. A paracrine signature, encompassing high epithelial Hh ligand and high stromal Gli1, was an independent predictor for overall survival in multivariate analysis. In 2 independent histological progression series (n = 301), Hh expression increased with atypia. Hh ligand overexpression in a mouse model of basal breast cancer increased growth, induced a poorly differentiated phenotype, accelerated metastasis, and reduced survival. A stromal requirement for these effects was supported by the lack of similar Hh-mediated changes in vitro, and by stromal-specific expression of Hh target genes in vivo. Furthermore, inhibition of Hh ligand with a monoclonal antibody (5E1) inhibited tumor growth and metastasis. These data suggest that epithelial–stromal Hh signaling, driven by ligand expression in carcinoma cells, promotes breast cancer growth and metastasis. Blockade of Hh signaling to peritumoral stromal cells may represent a novel therapeutic approach in some basal-like breast cancers. Cancer Res; 71(11); 4002–14. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Immunotype and Immunohistologic Characteristics of Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells Are Associated with Clinical Outcome in Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Erdag Gulsun , Schaefer Jochen T. , Smolkin Mark E. , Deacon Donna H. , Shea Sofia M. , Dengel Lynn T. , Patterson James W. , Slingluff Craig L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Immune cells infiltrating the microenvironment of melanoma metastases may either limit or promote tumor progression, but the characteristics that distinguish these effects are obscure. In this study, we systematically evaluated the composition and organization of immune cells that infiltrated melanoma metastases in human patients. Three histologic patterns of immune cell infiltration were identified, designated immunotypes A, B, and C. Immunotype A was characterized by no immune cell infiltrate. Immunotype B was characterized by infiltration of immune cells limited only to regions proximal to intratumoral blood vessels. Immunotype C was characterized by a diffuse immune cell infiltrate throughout a metastatic tumor. These immunotypes represented 29%, 63%, and 8% of metastases with estimated median survival periods of 15, 23, and 130 months, respectively. Notably, from immunotypes A to C, there were increasing proportions of B cells and decreasing proportions of macrophages. Overall, the predominant immune cells were T cells (53%), B cell lineage cells (33%), and macrophages (13%), with natural killer and mature dendritic cells only rarely present. Whereas higher densities of CD8+ T cells correlated best with survival, a higher density of CD45+ leukocytes, T cells, and B cells also correlated with increased survival. Together, our findings reveal striking differences in the immune infiltrate in melanoma metastases in patients, suggesting microenvironmental differences in immune homing receptors and ligands that affect immune cell recruitment. These findings are important, not only by revealing how the immune microenvironment can affect outcomes but also because they reveal characteristics that may help improve individualized therapy for patients with metastatic melanoma. Cancer Res; 72(5); 1070–80. ©2012 AACR.
Data from PDGF Receptor Alpha Is an Alternative Mediator of Rapamycin-Induced Akt Activation: Implications for Combination Targeted Therapy of Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Ho Alan L. , Vasudeva Shyamprasad Deraje , Laé Marick , Saito Tsuyoshi , Barbashina Violetta , Antonescu Cristina R. , Ladanyi Marc , Schwartz Gary K.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Akt activation by the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) has been posited to be a mechanism of intrinsic resistance to mTORC1 inhibitors (rapalogues) for sarcomas. Here we show that rapamycin-induced phosphorylation of Akt can occur in an IGF-1R–independent manner. Analysis of synovial sarcoma cell lines showed that either IGF-1R or the PDGF receptor alpha (PDGFRA) can mediate intrinsic resistance to rapamycin. Repressing expression of PDGFRA or inhibiting its kinase activity in synovial sarcoma cells blocked rapamycin-induced phosphorylation of Akt and decreased tumor cell viability. Expression profiling of clinical tumor samples revealed that PDGFRA was the most highly expressed kinase gene among several sarcoma disease subtypes, suggesting that PDGFRA may be uniquely significant for synovial sarcomas. Tumor biopsy analyses from a synovial sarcoma patient treated with the mTORC1 inhibitor everolimus and PDGFRA inhibitor imatinib mesylate confirmed that this drug combination can impact both mTORC1 and Akt signals in vivo. Together, our findings define mechanistic variations in the intrinsic resistance of synovial sarcomas to rapamycin and suggest therapeutic strategies to address them. Cancer Res; 72(17); 4515–25. ©2012 AACR.
Data from ICOS-Ligand Expression on Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Supports Breast Cancer Progression by Promoting the Accumulation of Immunosuppressive CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Faget Julien , Bendriss-Vermare Nathalie , Gobert Michael , Durand Isabelle , Olive Daniel , Biota Cathy , Bachelot Thomas , Treilleux Isabelle , Goddard-Leon Sophie , Lavergne Emilie , Chabaud Sylvie , Blay Jean Yves , Caux Christophe , Ménétrier-Caux Christine
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Human breast tumors are infiltrated by memory CD4+ T cells along with increased numbers of regulatory T cells (Treg) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) that facilitate immune escape and correlate with poor prognosis. Here, we report that inducible costimulatory molecule (ICOS), a T cell costimulatory molecule of the CTLA4/PD1/CD28 family, is expressed mostly by tumor-associated Treg in primary breast tumors. A large proportion of these ICOS+ Treg were Ki67+ and this evident proliferative expansion was found to rely on interactions with tumor-associated pDC. Indeed, tumor-associated Treg highly expanded in presence of pDC but failed to proliferate under CD3/CD28 signal. In vitro experiments revealed that the addition of a neutralizing anti-ICOS antibody blocked pDC-induced Treg expansion and interleukin-10 secretion by memory CD4+ T cells, establishing a pivotal role for ICOS in this process. Supporting these findings, the presence of ICOS+ cells in clinical specimens of breast cancer correlated with a poor prognosis. Together, our results highlight an important relationship between Treg and pDC in breast tumors, and show that ICOS/ICOS-L interaction is a central event in immunosuppression of tumor-associated memory CD4+ T cells. These findings strongly rationalize antibody-mediated ICOS blockade as a powerful clinical strategy to correct immune escape and promote therapeutic responses in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 72(23); 6130–41. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Oxidation-Mediated DNA Cross-Linking Contributes to the Toxicity of 6-Thioguanine in Human Cells
Authors: Brem Reto , Karran Peter
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The thiopurines azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine have been extensively prescribed as immunosuppressant and anticancer agents for several decades. A third member of the thiopurine family, 6-thioguanine (6-TG), has been used less widely. Although known to be partly dependent on DNA mismatch repair (MMR), the cytotoxicity of 6-TG remains incompletely understood. Here, we describe a novel MMR-independent pathway of 6-TG toxicity. Cell killing depended on two properties of 6-TG: its incorporation into DNA and its ability to act as a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS targeted DNA 6-TG to generate potentially lethal replication-arresting DNA lesions including interstrand cross-links. These triggered processing by the Fanconi anemia and homologous recombination DNA repair pathways. Allopurinol protected against 6-TG toxicity by acting as a ROS scavenger and preventing DNA damage. Together, our findings provide mechanistic evidence to support the proposed use of thiopurines to treat HR-defective tumors and for the coadministration of 6-TG and allopurinol as an immunomodulation strategy in inflammatory disorders. Cancer Res; 72(18); 4787–95. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Cardiac Inflammation after Local Irradiation Is Influenced by the Kallikrein-Kinin System
Authors: Sridharan Vijayalakshmi , Tripathi Preeti , Sharma Sunil K. , Moros Eduardo G. , Corry Peter M. , Lieblong Benjamin J. , Kaschina Elena , Unger Thomas , Thöne-Reineke Christa , Hauer-Jensen Martin , Boerma Marjan
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Radiotherapy of intrathoracic and chest wall tumors may lead to exposure of the heart to ionizing radiation, resulting in radiation-induced heart diseases (RIHD). The main manifestations of RIHD become apparent many years after treatment and include cardiomyopathy and accelerated atherosclerosis. This study examines the role of the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) in RIHD by investigating the cardiac radiation response in a kininogen-deficient Brown Norway Katholiek (BN/Ka) rat model. BN/Ka rats and wild-type Brown Norway (BN) rats were exposed to local heart irradiation with a single dose of 18 Gy or 24 Gy and were observed for 3 to 6 months. Examinations included in vivo and ex vivo cardiac function, histopathology, gene and protein expression measurements, and mitochondrial swelling assays. Upon local heart irradiation, changes in in vivo cardiac function were significantly less in BN/Ka rats. For instance, a single dose of 24 Gy caused a 35% increase in fractional shortening in BN rats compared with a 16% increase in BN/Ka rats. BN rats, but not BN/Ka rats, showed a 56% reduction in cardiac numbers of CD2-positive cells, and a 57% increase in CD68-positive cells, together with a 52% increase in phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2). Local heart irradiation had similar effects on histopathology, mitochondrial changes, and left ventricular mRNA levels of NADPH oxidases in the two genotypes. These results suggest that the KKS plays a role in the effects of radiation on cardiac function and recruitment of inflammatory cells. The KKS may have these effects at least in part by altering Erk1/2 signaling. Cancer Res; 72(19); 4984–92. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Genetic Deficiency in Plasma Protein HRG Enhances Tumor Growth and Metastasis by Exacerbating Immune Escape and Vessel Abnormalization
Authors: Tugues Sònia , Honjo Satoshi , König Christian , Noguer Oriol , Hedlund Marie , Botling Johan , Deschoemaeker Sofie , Wenes Mathias , Rolny Charlotte , Jahnen-Dechent Wilhelm , Mazzone Massimiliano , Claesson-Welsh Lena
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) is a 75-kDa heparin-binding plasma protein implicated in the regulation of tumor growth and vascularization. In this study, we show that hrg−/− mice challenged with fibrosarcoma or pancreatic carcinoma grow larger tumors with increased metastatic properties. Compared with wild-type mice, fibrosarcomas in hrg−/− mice were more hypoxic, necrotic, and less perfused, indicating enhanced vessel abnormalization. HRG deficiency was associated with a suppressed antitumor immune response, with both increased infiltration of M2 marker–expressing macrophages and decreased infiltration of dendritic cells and cytotoxic T cells. Analysis of transcript expression in tumor-associated as well as peritoneal macrophages from hrg−/− mice revealed an increased expression of genes associated with a proangiogenic and immunoinhibitory phenotype. In accordance, expression arrays conducted on HRG-treated peritoneal macrophages showed induction of genes involved in extracellular matrix biology and immune responsiveness. In conclusion, our findings show that macrophages are a direct target of HRG. HRG loss influences macrophage gene regulation, leading to excessive stimulation of tumor angiogenesis, suppression of tumor immune response, and increased tumor growth and metastatic spread. Cancer Res; 72(8); 1953–63. ©2012 AACR.
Data from DDX31 Regulates the p53-HDM2 Pathway and rRNA Gene Transcription through Its Interaction with NPM1 in Renal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Fukawa Tomoya , Ono Masaya , Matsuo Taisuke , Uehara Hisanori , Miki Tsuneharu , Nakamura Yusuke , Kanayama Hiro-omi , Katagiri Toyomasa
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Studies of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have led to the development of new molecular-targeted drugs but its oncogenic origins remain poorly understood. Here, we report the identification and critical roles in renal carcinogenesis for DDX31, a novel nucleolar protein upregulated in the vast majority of human RCC. Immunohistochemical overexpression of DDX31 was an independent prognostic factor for patients with RCC. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated attenuation of DDX31 in RCC cells significantly suppressed outgrowth, whereas ectopic DDX31 overexpression in human 293 kidney cells drove their proliferation. Endogenous DDX31 interacted and colocalized with nucleophosmin (NPM1) in the nucleoli of RCC cells, and attenuation of DDX31 or NPM1 expression decreased pre-ribosomal RNA biogenesis. Notably, in DDX31-attenuated cells, NPM1 was translocated from nucleoli to the nucleoplasm or cytoplasm where it bound to HDM2. As a result, HDM2 binding to p53 was reduced, causing p53 stablization with concomitant G1 phase cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. Taken together, our findings define a mechanism through which control of the DDX31–NPM1 complex is likely to play critical roles in renal carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 72(22); 5867–77. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Regulation of FANCD2 by the mTOR Pathway Contributes to the Resistance of Cancer Cells to DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Shen Changxian , Oswald Duane , Phelps Doris , Cam Hakan , Pelloski Christopher E. , Pang Qishen , Houghton Peter J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Deregulation of the mTOR pathway is closely associated with tumorigenesis. Accordingly, mTOR inhibitors such as rapamycin and mTOR-selective kinase inhibitors have been tested as cancer therapeutic agents. Inhibition of mTOR results in sensitization to DNA-damaging agents; however, the molecular mechanism is not well understood. We found that an mTOR-selective kinase inhibitor, AZD8055, significantly enhanced sensitivity of a pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma xenograft to radiotherapy and sensitized rhabdomyosarcoma cells to the DNA interstrand cross-linker (ICL) melphalan. Sensitization correlated with drug-induced downregulation of a key component of the Fanconi anemia pathway, FANCD2 through mTOR regulation of FANCD2 gene transcripts via mTORC1-S6K1. Importantly, we show that FANCD2 is required for the proper activation of ATM-Chk2 checkpoint in response to ICL and that mTOR signaling promotes ICL-induced ATM-Chk2 checkpoint activation by sustaining FANCD2. In FANCD2-deficient lymphoblasts, FANCD2 is essential to suppress endogenous and induced DNA damage, and FANCD2-deficient cells showed impaired ATM-Chk2 and ATR-Chk1 activation, which was rescued by reintroduction of wild-type FANCD2. Pharmacologic inhibition of PI3K–mTOR–AKT pathway in Rh30 rhabdomyosarcoma cells attenuated ICL-induced activation of ATM, accompanied with the decrease of FANCD2. These data suggest that the mTOR pathway may promote the repair of DNA double-strand breaks by sustaining FANCD2 and provide a novel mechanism of how the Fanconi anemia pathway modulates DNA damage response and repair. Cancer Res; 73(11); 3393–401. ©2013 AACR.
Data from PTP1B Is an Androgen Receptor–Regulated Phosphatase That Promotes the Progression of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lessard Laurent , Labbé David P. , Deblois Geneviève , Bégin Louis R. , Hardy Serge , Mes-Masson Anne-Marie , Saad Fred , Trotman Lloyd C. , Giguère Vincent , Tremblay Michel L.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) signaling axis plays a key role in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer. In this study, we found that the protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B, a well-established regulator of metabolic signaling, was induced after androgen stimulation of AR-expressing prostate cancer cells. PTP1B induction by androgen occurred at the mRNA and protein levels to increase PTP1B activity. High-resolution chromosome mapping revealed AR recruitment to two response elements within the first intron of the PTP1B encoding gene PTPN1, correlating with an AR-mediated increase in RNA polymerase II recruitment to the PTPN1 transcriptional start site. We found that PTPN1 and AR genes were coamplified in metastatic tumors and that PTPN1 amplification was associated with a subset of high-risk primary tumors. Functionally, PTP1B depletion delayed the growth of androgen-dependent human prostate tumors and impaired androgen-induced cell migration and invasion in vitro. However, PTP1B was also required for optimal cell migration of androgen-independent cells. Collectively, our results established the AR as a transcriptional regulator of PTPN1 transcription and implicated PTP1B in a tumor-promoting role in prostate cancer. Our findings support the preclinical testing of PTP1B inhibitors for prostate cancer treatment. Cancer Res; 72(6); 1529–37. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Genomic Profiling of Isolated Circulating Tumor Cells from Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Magbanua Mark Jesus M. , Sosa Eduardo V. , Roy Ritu , Eisenbud Lauren E. , Scott Janet H. , Olshen Adam , Pinkel Dan , Rugo Hope S. , Park John W.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Molecular characterization of circulating tumor cells (CTC) from blood is technically challenging because cells are rare and difficult to isolate. We developed a novel approach to isolate CTCs from blood via immunomagnetic enrichment followed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (IE–FACS). Isolated CTCs were subjected to genome-wide copy number analysis via array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). In clinical studies, CTCs were isolated from 181 patients with metastatic breast cancer, 102 of which were successfully profiled, including matched archival primary tumor from five patients. CTCs revealed a wide range of copy number alterations including those previously reported in breast cancer. Comparison with two published aCGH datasets of primary breast tumors revealed similar frequencies of recurrent genomic copy number aberrations. In addition, serial testing of CTCs confirmed reproducibility and indicated genomic change over time. Comparison of CTCs with matched archival primary tumors confirmed shared lineage as well as some divergence. We showed that it is feasible to isolate CTCs away from hematopoietic cells with high purity through IE–FACS and profile them via aCGH analysis. Our approach may be used to explore genomic events involved in cancer progression and to monitor therapeutic efficacy of targeted therapies in clinical trials in a relatively noninvasive manner. Cancer Res; 73(1); 30–40. ©2012 AACR.
Data from The Melanoma‐Upregulated Long Noncoding RNA SPRY4-IT1 Modulates Apoptosis and Invasion
Authors: Khaitan Divya , Dinger Marcel E. , Mazar Joseph , Crawford Joanna , Smith Martin A. , Mattick John S. , Perera Ranjan J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The identification of cancer-associated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and the investigation of their molecular and biological functions are important to understand the molecular biology of cancer and its progression. Although the functions of lncRNAs and the mechanisms regulating their expression are largely unknown, recent studies are beginning to unravel their importance in human health and disease. Here, we report that a number of lncRNAs are differentially expressed in melanoma cell lines in comparison to melanocytes and keratinocyte controls. One of these lncRNAs, SPRY4-IT1 (GenBank accession ID AK024556), is derived from an intron of the SPRY4 gene and is predicted to contain several long hairpins in its secondary structure. RNA-FISH analysis showed that SPRY4-IT1 is predominantly localized in the cytoplasm of melanoma cells, and SPRY4-IT1 RNAi knockdown results in defects in cell growth, differentiation, and higher rates of apoptosis in melanoma cell lines. Differential expression of both SPRY4 and SPRY4-IT1 was also detected in vivo, in 30 distinct patient samples, classified as primary in situ, regional metastatic, distant metastatic, and nodal metastatic melanoma. The elevated expression of SPRY4-IT1 in melanoma cells compared to melanocytes, its accumulation in cell cytoplasm, and effects on cell dynamics, including increased rate of wound closure on SPRY4-IT1 overexpression, suggest that the higher expression of SPRY4-IT1 may have an important role in the molecular etiology of human melanoma. Cancer Res; 71(11); 3852–62. ©2011 AACR.
Data from LIN28 Expression in Malignant Germ Cell Tumors Downregulates let-7 and Increases Oncogene Levels
Authors: Murray Matthew J. , Saini Harpreet K. , Siegler Charlotte A. , Hanning Jennifer E. , Barker Emily M. , van Dongen Stijn , Ward Dawn M. , Raby Katie L. , Groves Ian J. , Scarpini Cinzia G. , Pett Mark R. , Thornton Claire M. , Enright Anton J. , Nicholson James C. , Coleman Nicholas
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Despite their clinicopathologic heterogeneity, malignant germ cell tumors (GCT) share molecular abnormalities that are likely to be functionally important. In this study, we investigated the potential significance of downregulation of the let-7 family of tumor suppressor microRNAs in malignant GCTs. Microarray results from pediatric and adult samples (n = 45) showed that LIN28, the negative regulator of let-7 biogenesis, was abundant in malignant GCTs, regardless of patient age, tumor site, or histologic subtype. Indeed, a strong negative correlation existed between LIN28 and let-7 levels in specimens with matched datasets. Low let-7 levels were biologically significant, as the sequence complementary to the 2 to 7 nt common let-7 seed “GAGGUA” was enriched in the 3′ untranslated regions of mRNAs upregulated in pediatric and adult malignant GCTs, compared with normal gonads (a mixture of germ cells and somatic cells). We identified 27 mRNA targets of let-7 that were upregulated in malignant GCT cells, confirming significant negative correlations with let-7 levels. Among 16 mRNAs examined in a largely independent set of specimens by quantitative reverse transcription PCR, we defined negative-associations with let-7e levels for six oncogenes, including MYCN, AURKB, CCNF, RRM2, MKI67, and C12orf5 (when including normal control tissues). Importantly, LIN28 depletion in malignant GCT cells restored let-7 levels and repressed all of these oncogenic let-7 mRNA targets, with LIN28 levels correlating with cell proliferation and MYCN levels. Conversely, ectopic expression of let-7e was sufficient to reduce proliferation and downregulate MYCN, AURKB, and LIN28, the latter via a double-negative feedback loop. We conclude that the LIN28/let-7 pathway has a critical pathobiologic role in malignant GCTs and therefore offers a promising target for therapeutic intervention. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4872–84. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Pivotal Role of the Lipid Raft SK3–Orai1 Complex in Human Cancer Cell Migration and Bone Metastases
Authors: Chantôme Aurélie , Potier-Cartereau Marie , Clarysse Lucie , Fromont Gaëlle , Marionneau-Lambot Séverine , Guéguinou Maxime , Pagès Jean-Christophe , Collin Christine , Oullier Thibauld , Girault Alban , Arbion Flavie , Haelters Jean-Pierre , Jaffrès Paul-Alain , Pinault Michelle , Besson Pierre , Joulin Virginie , Bougnoux Philippe , Vandier Christophe
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The SK3 channel, a potassium channel, was recently shown to control cancer cell migration, a critical step in metastasis outgrowth. Here, we report that expression of the SK3 channel was markedly associated with bone metastasis. The SK3 channel was shown to control constitutive Ca2+ entry and cancer cell migration through an interaction with the Ca2+ channel Orai1. We found that the SK3 channel triggers an association with the Orai1 channel within lipid rafts. This localization of an SK3–Orai1 complex seemed essential to control cancer cell migration. This suggests that the formation of this complex in lipid rafts is a gain-of-function, because we showed that none of the individual proteins were able to promote the complete phenotype. We identified the alkyl-lipid Ohmline as a disrupting agent for SK3–Orai1 lipid raft localization. Upon Ohmline treatment, the SK3–Orai1 complex moved away from lipid rafts, and SK3-dependent Ca2+ entry, migration, and bone metastases were subsequently impaired. The colocalization of SK3 and Orai1 in primary human tumors and bone metastases further emphasized the clinical relevance of our observations. Targeting SK3–Orai1 in lipid rafts may inaugurate innovative approaches to inhibit bone metastases. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4852–61. ©2013 AACR.
Data from GDNF–RET Signaling in ER-Positive Breast Cancers Is a Key Determinant of Response and Resistance to Aromatase Inhibitors
Authors: Morandi Andrea , Martin Lesley-Ann , Gao Qiong , Pancholi Sunil , Mackay Alan , Robertson David , Zvelebil Marketa , Dowsett Mitch , Plaza-Menacho Ivan , Isacke Clare M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Most breast cancers at diagnosis are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and depend on estrogen for growth and survival. Blocking estrogen biosynthesis by aromatase inhibitors has therefore become a first-line endocrine therapy for postmenopausal women with ER+ breast cancers. Despite providing substantial improvements in patient outcome, aromatase inhibitor resistance remains a major clinical challenge. The receptor tyrosine kinase, RET, and its coreceptor, GFRα1, are upregulated in a subset of ER+ breast cancers, and the RET ligand, glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is upregulated by inflammatory cytokines. Here, we report the findings of a multidisciplinary strategy to address the impact of GDNF–RET signaling in the response to aromatase inhibitor treatment. In breast cancer cells in two-dimensional and three-dimensional culture, GDNF-mediated RET signaling is enhanced in a model of aromatase inhibitor resistance. Furthermore, GDNF–RET signaling promoted the survival of aromatase inhibitor-resistant cells and elicited resistance in aromatase inhibitor-sensitive cells. Both these effects were selectively reverted by the RET kinase inhibitor, NVP-BBT594. Gene expression profiling in ER+ cancers defined a proliferation-independent GDNF response signature that prognosed poor patient outcome and, more importantly, predicted poor response to aromatase inhibitor treatment with the development of resistance. We validated these findings by showing increased RET protein expression levels in an independent cohort of aromatase inhibitor-resistant patient specimens. Together, our results establish GDNF–RET signaling as a rational therapeutic target to combat or delay the onset of aromatase inhibitor resistance in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 73(12); 3783–95. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Coevolution of Solid Stress and Interstitial Fluid Pressure in Tumors During Progression: Implications for Vascular Collapse
Authors: Stylianopoulos Triantafyllos , Martin John D. , Snuderl Matija , Mpekris Fotios , Jain Saloni R. , Jain Rakesh K.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The stress harbored by the solid phase of tumors is known as solid stress. Solid stress can be either applied externally by the surrounding normal tissue or induced by the tumor itself due to its growth. Fluid pressure is the isotropic stress exerted by the fluid phase. We recently showed that growth-induced solid stress is on the order of 1.3 to 13.0 kPa (10–100 mmHg) – high enough to cause compression of fragile blood vessels, resulting in poor perfusion and hypoxia. However, the evolution of growth-induced stress with tumor progression and its effect on cancer cell proliferation in vivo is not understood. To this end, we developed a mathematical model for tumor growth that takes into account all three types of stresses: growth-induced stress, externally applied stress, and fluid pressure. First, we conducted in vivo experiments and found that growth-induced stress is related to tumor volume through a biexponential relationship. Then, we incorporated this information into our mathematical model and showed that due to the evolution of growth-induced stress, total solid stress levels are higher in the tumor interior and lower in the periphery. Elevated compressive solid stress in the interior of the tumor is sufficient to cause the collapse of blood vessels and results in a lower growth rate of cancer cells compared with the periphery, independently from that caused by the lack of nutrients due to vessel collapse. Furthermore, solid stress in the periphery of the tumor causes blood vessels in the surrounding normal tissue to deform to elliptical shapes. We present histologic sections of human cancers that show such vessel deformations. Finally, we found that fluid pressure increases with tumor growth due to increased vascular permeability and lymphatic impairment, and is governed by the microvascular pressure. Crucially, fluid pressure does not cause vessel compression of tumor vessels. Cancer Res; 73(13); 3833–41. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Targeting FSTL1 Prevents Tumor Bone Metastasis and Consequent Immune Dysfunction
Authors: Kudo-Saito Chie , Fuwa Takafumi , Murakami Kouichi , Kawakami Yutaka
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Bone metastasis greatly deteriorates the quality of life in patients with cancer. Although mechanisms have been widely investigated, the relationship between cancer bone metastasis and antitumor immunity in the host has been much less studied. Here, we report a novel mechanism of bone metastasis mediated by FSTL1, a follistatin-like glycoprotein secreted by Snail+ tumor cells, which metastasize frequently to bone. We found that FSTL1 plays a dual role in bone metastasis—in one way by mediating tumor cell invasion and bone tropism but also in a second way by expanding a population of pluripotent mesenchymal stem-like CD45−ALCAM+ cells derived from bone marrow. CD45−ALCAM+ cells induced bone metastasis de novo, but they also generated CD8low T cells with weak CTL activity in the periphery, which also promoted bone metastasis in an indirect manner. RNA interference-mediated attenuation of FSTL1 in tumor cells prevented bone metastasis along with the parallel increase in ALCAM+ cells and CD8low T cells. These effects were accompanied by heightened antitumor immune responses in vitro and in vivo. In clinical specimens of advanced breast cancer, ALCAM+ cells increased with FSTL1 positivity in tumor tissues, but not in adjacent normal tissues, consistent with a causal connection between these molecules. Our findings define FSTL1 as an attractive candidate therapeutic target to prevent or treat bone metastasis, which remains a major challenge in patients with cancer. Cancer Res; 73(20); 6185–93. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Indirubin Derivative 6BIO Suppresses Metastasis
Authors: Braig Simone , Kressirer Christine A. , Liebl Johanna , Bischoff Fabian , Zahler Stefan , Meijer Laurent , Vollmar Angelika M.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
While metastasis is the chief cause of cancer mortality, there nonetheless remains a lack of antimetastatic therapies that are clinically available. In this study, we present the indirubin derivative 6-bromo-indirubin-3′-oxime (6BIO) as a promising antimetastatic agent. 6BIO strongly reduced formation of lung metastasis in the well-established 4T1 mouse model of aggressive breast cancer. Several major hallmarks of the metastatic process were affected by subtoxic concentrations of 6BIO, which inhibited adhesion, migration, and invasion of a variety of metastatic cell types in vitro. Mechanistic analyses focused on known targets of 6BIO, which were silenced by this compound. Unexpectedly, RNAi-mediated silencing of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1), both modulators of cellular metastasis targeted by 6BIO, were not found to affect invasive migration in this study. Instead, the Jak/STAT3 signaling pathway appeared to play a major role through modulation of its downstream migration regulators C-terminal tensin-like protein and matrix metalloproteinase 2. However, PDK1 and GSK3β contributed to the overall response to 6BIO, as silencing of all three pathways resulted in almost complete inhibition of migration, phenocopying the 6BIO response. Taken together, our findings illustrate the antimetastatic activity of 6BIO on the basis of its ability to simultaneously inhibit several kinase cascades involved in metastasis of cancer cells, supporting the concept of “polypharmacology” in developing drugs to attack metastasis, the most deadly aspect of cancer. Cancer Res; 73(19); 6004–12. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Vaccine-Instructed Intratumoral IFN-γ Enables Regression of Autochthonous Mouse Prostate Cancer in Allogeneic T-Cell Transplantation
Authors: Hess Michelini Rodrigo , Manzo Teresa , Sturmheit Tabea , Basso Veronica , Rocchi Martina , Freschi Massimo , Listopad Joanna , Blankenstein Thomas , Bellone Matteo , Mondino Anna
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Vaccination can synergize with transplantation of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells to cure hematologic malignancies, but the basis for this synergy is not understood to the degree where such approaches could be effective for treating solid tumors. We investigated this issue in a transgenic mouse model of prostate cancer treated by transplantation of a nonmyeloablative MHC-matched, single Y chromosome–encoded, or multiple minor histocompatibility antigen-mismatched hematopoietic cell preparation. Here, we report that tumor-directed vaccination after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and donor lymphocyte infusion is essential for acute graft versus tumor responses, tumor regression, and prolonged survival. Vaccination proved essential for generation of CD8+ IFN-γ+ tumor-directed effector cells in secondary lymphoid organs and also for IFN-γ+ upregulation at the tumor site, which in turn instructed local expression of proinflammatory chemokines and intratumoral recruitment of donor-derived T cells for disease regression. Omitting vaccination, transplanting IFN-γ–deficient donor T cells, or depleting alloreactive T cells all compromised intratumoral IFN-γ–driven inflammation and lymphocyte infiltration, abolishing antitumor responses and therapeutic efficacy of the combined approach. Our findings argue that posttransplant tumor-directed vaccination is critical to effectively direct donor T cells to the tumor site in cooperation with allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Cancer Res; 73(00); 4641–52. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Tumor Promotion by Intratumoral Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Is Reversed by TLR7 Ligand Treatment
Authors: Le Mercier Isabelle , Poujol Dominique , Sanlaville Amélien , Sisirak Vanja , Gobert Michael , Durand Isabelle , Dubois Bertrand , Treilleux Isabelle , Marvel Jacqueline , Vlach Jaromir , Blay Jean-Yves , Bendriss-Vermare Nathalie , Caux Christophe , Puisieux Isabelle , Goutagny Nadège
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are key regulators of antiviral immunity. In previous studies, we reported that pDC-infiltrating human primary breast tumors represent an independent prognostic factor associated with poor outcome. To understand this negative impact of tumor-associated pDC (TApDC), we developed an orthotopic murine mammary tumor model that closely mimics the human pathology, including pDC and regulatory T cell (Treg) infiltration. We showed that TApDC are mostly immature and maintain their ability to internalize antigens in vivo and to activate CD4+ T cells. Most importantly, TApDC were specifically altered for cytokine production in response to Toll-like receptor (TLR)–9 ligands in vitro while preserving unaltered response to TLR7 ligands (TLR7L). In vivo pDC depletion delayed tumor growth, showing that TApDC provide an immune-subversive environment, most likely through Treg activation, thus favoring tumor progression. However, in vivo intratumoral administration of TLR7L led to TApDC activation and displayed a potent curative effect. Depletion of pDC and type I IFN neutralization prevented TLR7L antitumoral effect. Our results establish a direct contribution of TApDC to primary breast tumor progression and rationalize the application of TLR7 ligands to restore TApDC activation in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4629–40. ©2013 AACR.