bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant Expression of Novel and Previously Described Cell Membrane Markers in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Tumors
Authors: Huang Huayi , Groth Jeff , Sossey-Alaoui Khalid , Hawthorn Lesleyann , Beall Stephanie , Geradts Joseph
Published: September 2005

Purpose: In a previous gene expression array study, we identified some 300 genes that were differentially expressed in human epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (HER2)–positive versus HER2-negative breast cancer cells. We have now done validation experiments on a group of three cell membrane components that had previously not been implicated in breast cancer. We also studied the expression of three other cell membrane proteins known to play a role in mammary neoplasia.

Experimental Design: By immunohistochemistry, we examined up to 130 archival breast carcinomas for Celsr2, E-cadherin, Kai1, and CD9 expression. The expression levels of NET-6 and TROP-2 were determined by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR in a subset of frozen tumors. We also studied fresh pellets and paraffin-embedded cell buttons of nine human breast cell lines. The relationship between the expression of all six membrane proteins and a variety of pathologic and biological variables, including estrogen receptor, HER2, and epidermal growth factor receptor status, was also examined. The NET-6 gene was transfected into a low-expressing cell line, and the effect on cellular morphology, growth, and invasion in vitro was recorded.

Results: Celsr2 was down-regulated in one cell line and in 7% of breast cancers. E-cadherin, Kai1, and CD9 were down-regulated in 35%, 76%, and 79% of tumors, respectively, confirming the important role of these markers in human mammary neoplasia. In breast cancer cell lines and tissues, TROP-2 was generally expressed at low levels, although a few specimens showed relative overexpression. NET-6 levels were lower in HER2-negative breast carcinoma cells. In addition, NET-6 was markedly down-regulated in estrogen receptor–negative breast cancers, and expression was lowest in “basal-like” tumors. Ectopic expression of NET-6 in low-expressing MDA-MB-231 cells altered cellular morphology, inhibited growth in vitro, and decreased invasion in a Boyden chamber assay.

Conclusions: We have confirmed the expression of three new membrane markers that had previously not been implicated in human breast cancer, and one of them (NET-6) was correlated with HER2 and estrogen receptor status. NET-6 levels were decreased in estrogen receptor–negative and high-grade tumors, and ectopic expression of this gene had an inhibitory effect on proliferation and invasion. Thus, NET-6 may represent a novel breast cancer suppressor gene.
Proteins and Protein Pattern Differences between Glioma Cell Lines and Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Vogel Timothy W. , Zhuang Zhengping , Li Jie , Okamoto Hiroaki , Furuta Makoto , Lee Youn-Soo , Zeng Weifen , Oldfield Edward H. , Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Weil Robert J.
Published: September 2005

Introduction: Research into the pathogenesis, molecular signaling, and treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) has traditionally been conducted using cell lines derived from malignant gliomas. We compared protein expression patterns between solid primary GBMs and GBM cell lines to identify proteins whose expression may be altered in cell culture.

Methods: We cultured cell lines U87, U118, U251, and A172 and used tissue-selective microdissection of eight primary GBMs to obtain pure populations of tumor cells, which we studied using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DGE) and examined using differential expression software. Select protein targets expressed differentially between GBM tumors and GBM cell lines were sequenced using tandem mass spectrometry.

Results: Analysis of the primary GBM tumor samples (n = 8) and the GBM cell lines revealed reproducibly similar proteomic patterns for each group, which distinguished tumors from the cell lines. Gels contained up to 500 proteins that were consistently identified in the pH 4 to 7 range. Comparison of proteins identified in the GBM tumors and in the cell lines showed ∼160 proteins that were gained and 60 proteins that were lost on culture. Using normalized intensity patterns from the 2DGE images, ANOVA tests were done and statistically significant spots were identified. Seven proteins found in the cell lines were significantly increased when compared with the GBM tumors (P < 0.05), whereas 10 proteins were significantly decreased from cell lines compared with the GBM tumors. Proteins identified included transcription factors, tumor suppressor genes, cytoskeletal proteins, and cellular metabolic proteins.

Conclusion: Global protein and proteomic differences were identified between primary GBM tumor samples and GBM cell lines. The proteins identified by 2DGE analysis elucidate some of the selection pressures of in vitro culture, help accentuate the advantages and limitations of cell culture, and may aid comprehension of gliomagenesis and enhance development of new therapeutics.
Molecular Responses in Patients with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia in Chronic Phase Treated with Imatinib Mesylate
Authors: Cortes Jorge , Talpaz Moshe , O'Brien Susan , Jones Dan , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Shan Jenny , Giles Francis , Faderl Stefan , Verstovsek Srdan , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Rios Mary B. , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: September 2005

Purpose: To determine the clinical significance of molecular response and relapse among patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) treated with imatinib.

Experimental Design: We analyzed the results of quantitative PCR in 280 patients with CML in chronic phase who achieved complete cytogenetic remission with imatinib (117 after IFN-α failure and 163 previously untreated). Median follow-up was 31 months (range, 3-52 months).

Results: Median BCR-ABL/ABL ratio before the start of therapy was 39.44 (range, 0.252-170.53). A major molecular response (BCR-ABL/ABL ratio <0.05%) was achieved in 174 (62%), and transcripts became undetectable (complete molecular response) in 95 (34%). By multivariate analysis, only treatment with high-dose imatinib (P = 0.02) was associated with achievement of a major molecular response. Nine of 166 (5%) patients who achieved a major molecular response lost their cytogenetic remission, compared with 25 of 68 (37%) among those who did not achieve this response (P < 0.0001). Patients achieving a major molecular response 12 months after the start of therapy had significantly better complete cytogenetic remission duration than others. A >1-log reduction in transcript levels after 3 months of therapy predicted for an improved probability of achieving a major molecular response at 24 months. Increasing levels of BCR-ABL transcripts predicted for a loss of cytogenetic remission only among patients who did not achieve a major molecular response.

Conclusions: Achieving a major molecular response, particularly within the first year of therapy, is predictive of a durable cytogenetic remission and may be the future goal of therapy in CML.
Inhibition of Heme Oxygenase-1 Increases Responsiveness of Pancreatic Cancer Cells to Anticancer Treatment
Authors: Berberat Pascal O. , Dambrauskas Zilvinas , Gulbinas Antanas , Giese Thomas , Giese Nathalia , Künzli Beat , Autschbach Frank , Meuer Stefen , Büchler Markus W. , Friess Helmut
Published: September 2005

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is believed to represent a key enzyme for the protection of cells against “stress.” Its overexpression in different types of human cancers supports the notion that HO-1 provides a growth advantage and contributes to cellular resistance against chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Given the poor survival rates of patients with pancreatic cancer due to its aggressive growth behavior and its exceptional resistance to all known forms of anticancer treatment, we have investigated the expression of HO-1 in human pancreatic cancer cells growth behavior and prognosis. Expression of HO-1 was analyzed in human pancreatic cancer samples in comparison with normal pancreas by quantitative PCR, Western blot, and confocal microscopy. The influence of radiotherapy and chemotherapy on HO-1 expression in pancreatic cancer cell lines was evaluated. Furthermore, HO-1 expression was specifically suppressed by small interfering RNA transfection and subsequently the alterations of growth behavior and resistance to anticancer treatment were tested. Human pancreatic cancer showed a 6-fold and 3.5-fold HO-1 up-regulation in comparison to normal pancreas based on mRNA and protein level, respectively (P < 0.05). Cancer tissues revealed marked HO-1 immunoreactivity in tumor cells and in tumor associated immunocytes. Treatment of the pancreatic cancer cell lines with gemcitabine or radiation strongly induced HO-1 expression. Targeted knockdown of HO-1 expression led to pronounced growth inhibition of the pancreatic cancer cells and made tumor cells significantly more sensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Therefore, specific inhibition of HO-1 expression may be a new option in pancreatic cancer therapy and may be used as sensitizer to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Tirapazamine Administered as a Neoadjuvant to Radiotherapy Reduces Metastatic Dissemination
Authors: Lunt Sarah Jane , Telfer Brian A. , Fitzmaurice Richard J. , Stratford Ian J. , Williams Kaye J.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: The level of hypoxia in primary tumors has been linked both clinically and experimentally to the incidence of metastases. This study was designed to address the effect of selectively targeting hypoxic cells in primary tumors on subsequent presentation of metastasis.

Experimental Design: The murine KHT model was used as a reproducible temporal and spatial onset of metastases is revealed following treatment of primary (∼400 mm3) s.c. tumors with a 25 Gy radiation dose. The bioreductive drugs tirapazamine and RB6145 were administered in multiple doses before radiotherapy.

Results: Fractionated treatment with both tirapazamine and RB6145 significantly reduced the hypoxic fraction of the primary tumor, as assessed by pimonidazole binding, and had no effect on the overall growth rate of the primary tumor. Excision assays showed an increased level of cell kill in tirapazamine-treated versus RB6145-treated tumors consistent with tirapazamine targeting hypoxic cells at a broader range of oxygen tensions than RB6145. Tirapazamine treatment significantly reduced the presentation of metastases following radiotherapy (P = 0.003 versus saline controls) whereas RB6145 had no effect. Local control rates increased from 20% to 32% and 50% when radiation was combined with RB6145 and tirapazamine, respectively.

Conclusions: These data provide direct evidence that selective targeting of hypoxic cells in primary tumors is a viable approach in the control of metastatic disease. The enhanced efficacy of tirapazamine versus RB6145 suggests that the radioresistant cells at intermediate oxygen tensions, conducive to targeting with tirapazamine but not with the more stringent bioreductive RB6145, predominate in terms of linking primary tumor hypoxia and metastases.
Validation of Genomics-Based Prognostic Tests in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Gordon Gavin J. , Rockwell Graham N. , Godfrey Paul A. , Jensen Roderick V. , Glickman Jonathan N. , Yeap Beow Y. , Richards William G. , Sugarbaker David J. , Bueno Raphael
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly lethal neoplasm with limited pretreatment prognostication strategies. In this report, we examine the accuracy of a previously proposed prognostic test in an independent cohort of MPM patients. This test uses simple ratios of gene expression levels to provide a novel prognostication scheme.

Experimental Design: Gene expression data using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays (∼22,000 genes) were obtained for a new cohort of human MPM tumors from patients undergoing similar treatments (n = 39). The relative expression levels for specific genes were also determined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. We also used a subset of these tumors associated with widely divergent patient survival (n = 23) as a training set to identify new treatment-specific candidate prognostic molecular markers and gene ratio–based prognostic tests. The predictive nature of these newly discovered markers and gene ratio–based prognostic tests were then examined in an independent group of tumors (n = 52) using microarray data and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR.

Results: Previously described MPM prognostic genes and gene ratio–based prognostic tests predicted clinical outcome in 39 independent MPM tumor specimens in a statistically significant manner. Newly discovered treatment-specific prognostic genes and gene ratio–based prognostic tests were highly accurate and statistically significant when examined in an independent group of 52 tumors from patients undergoing similar treatment.

Conclusions: The data support the use of gene ratios in translating gene expression data into easily reproducible, statistically validated clinical tests for the prediction of outcome in MPM.
Aromatase Inhibition: Translation into a Successful Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Geisler Jürgen , Lønning Per Eystein
Published: September 2005

The development of the novel third-generation aromatase inhibitors and inactivators for breast cancer treatment is one of the most successful contemporary achievements in cancer therapy. Parallel to studies evaluating toxicity and clinical efficacy in metastatic disease, the endocrine effects of multiple compounds were evaluated, leading to the identification of the highly potent third-generation aromatase inhibitors based on estrogen deprivation and aromatase inhibition in vivo. Thus, translational studies have been of vital importance identifying the unique characteristics of these compounds. Whereas first- and second-generation aromatase inhibitors inhibit estrogen synthesis in vivo by up to 90%, the third-generation compounds anastrozole, exemestane, and letrozole were found to cause ≥98% aromatase inhibition. This article summarizes and discusses the “translational research” that provided the background for the implementation of the third-generation aromatase inhibitors and inactivators into large clinical trials. The need for future translational research exploiting the mechanisms of resistance to these compounds for future improvement of endocrine therapy is emphasized.
The Transforming Growth Factor-β Family Members Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 and Macrophage Inhibitory Cytokine-1 as Mediators of the Antiangiogenic Activity of N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)Retinamide
Authors: Ferrari Nicoletta , Pfeffer Ulrich , Dell'Eva Raffaella , Ambrosini Claudia , Noonan Douglas M. , Albini Adriana
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Tumor growth appears to be an angiogenesis-dependent process. N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (fenretinide; 4HPR) has been found to inhibit and/or prevent tumor growth under diverse conditions. Although 4HPR is antiangiogenic, the molecular mechanisms of this effect remain largely unknown.

Experimental Design: Endothelial cells were treated with 4HPR in vitro to study the effects on migration, invasion, and organization, as well as gene expression by microarray and quantitative PCR studies. In vivo angiogenesis was evaluated in the Matrigel model.

Results: 4HPR treatment substantially modified the biological activities of endothelial cells, repressing their capacity to migrate, invade, and organize into capillary-like structures. The inhibition of invasion induced by 4HPR was also associated with decreased activities of the metalloproteases matrix metalloproteinase-2 and CD13/APN. Using oligonucleotide microarrays, we observed that bone morphogenetic protein-2 and macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1, two multifunctional cytokines of the transforming growth factor-β family that regulate the growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and matrix accumulation of a variety of cells, are up-regulated in vitro by 4HPR. Both these molecules specifically inhibited endothelial cell growth, migration, and invasion in vitro and suppressed angiogenesis in the Matrigel plug assay in vivo. Blocking antibodies to bone morphogenetic protein-2 were able to reverse the suppressive effects of 4HPR in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions: These data support the conclusion that 4HPR inhibits tumor growth by repression of new vessel growth and identify novel points of regulation of angiogenesis in transforming growth factor-β family proteins.
ERCC1 Codon 118 Polymorphism Is a Predictive Factor for the Tumor Response to Oxaliplatin/5-Fluorouracil Combination Chemotherapy in Patients with Advanced Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Viguier Jérôme , Boige Valérie , Miquel Catherine , Pocard Marc , Giraudeau Bruno , Sabourin Jean-Christophe , Ducreux Michel , Sarasin Alain , Praz Françoise
Published: September 2005

Purpose: The aim of our study was to assess whether the polymorphism of the nucleotide excision repair enzyme, excision repair cross-complementing rodent repair deficiency, complementation group 1 (ERCC1), had an effect on the tumor response in patients treated with standard chemotherapy regimens for a metastatic colorectal cancer. We have studied the synonymous polymorphism that causes a single nucleotide change C to T at codon 118 converting a codon of common usage (AAC) to a less used codon (AAT), both coding asparagine. This change results in a decreased ERCC1 gene expression, which impairs repair activity.

Experimental Design: Ninety-one patients with a median age of 55.1 years treated for a metastatic colorectal cancer were included in our retrospective study. The ERCC1 polymorphism was analyzed in the normal tissue of all patients.

Results: Twenty (22%) were homozygous for AAC codon (C/C genotype), 30 were (33%) homozygous for AAT codon (T/T genotype), and 41 (45%) were heterozygous (C/T genotype). The objective response rate to oxaliplatin in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was significantly higher in the T/T genotype group compared with the C/T and the C/C genotype groups (61.9%, 42.3%, and 21.4%, respectively; P = 0.018). By contrast, no significant difference was observed when patients were treated with either 5-FU alone (45%, 29.2%, and 33.3%, respectively; P = 0.407) or in combination with irinotecan (46.1%, 25.0%, and 27.3%, respectively; P = 0.305).

Conclusions: Our observations allowed us to define the first useful predictive criterion for oxaliplatin/5-FU response in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.
First Clinical Experience with α-Emitting Radium-223 in the Treatment of Skeletal Metastases
Authors: Nilsson Sten , Larsen Roy H. , Fosså Sophie D. , Balteskard Lise , Borch Kari W. , Westlin Jan-Erik , Salberg Gro , Bruland Øyvind S.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: The main goals were to study the safety and tolerability of the α-emitter radium-223 (223Ra) in breast and prostate cancer patients with skeletal metastases. In addition, pain palliation was evaluated.

Experimental Design: Fifteen prostate and 10 breast cancer patients enrolled in a phase I trial received a single i.v. injection of 223Ra. Five patients were included at each of the dosages: 46, 93, 163, 213, or 250 kBq/kg and followed for 8 weeks. Palliative response was evaluated according to the pain scale of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ C30 questionnaire at baseline and at 1, 4, and 8 weeks after injection.

Results: Weekly blood sampling during follow-up revealed mild and reversible myelosuppression with nadir 2 to 4 weeks after the injection. Importantly, for thrombocytes only grade 1 toxicity was reported. Grade 3 neutropenia and leucopenia occurred in two and three patients, respectively. Mild, transient diarrhea was observed in 10 of the 25 patients. Nausea and vomiting was more frequently observed in the highest dosage group. Serum alkaline phosphatase decreased with nadir averages of 29.5% in females and 52.1% in males. Pain relief was reported by 52%, 60%, and 56% of the patients after 7 days, 4, and 8 weeks, respectively. 223Ra cleared rapidly from blood and was below 1% of initial level at 24 hours. Gamma camera images indicated, in accordance with pretreatment 99mTc-MDP scans, accumulation of 223Ra in skeletal lesions. Elimination was mainly intestinal. Median survival exceeded 20 months.

Conclusions: 223Ra was well tolerated at therapeutically relevant dosages. Phase II studies have therefore been initiated.
Marimastat in the Treatment of Patients with Biochemically Relapsed Prostate Cancer: A Prospective Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase I/II Trial
Authors: Rosenbaum Eli , Zahurak Marianna , Sinibaldi Victoria , Carducci Michael A. , Pili Roberto , Laufer Menachem , DeWeese Theodore L. , Eisenberger Mario A.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and biological activity of three different doses of marimastat given for 6 months to patients with biochemically relapsed prostate cancer.

Experimental Design: Patients with a biochemical relapse within 2 years of primary therapy, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) increase of at least 50% within 6 months of study entry, and no prior systemic therapy were eligible. Patients were randomized to receive marimastat at total daily doses of 5, 20, or 40 mg for 6 months unless dose-limiting toxicity or new evidence of disease occurred.

Results: Thirty-nine patients were treated. Grade 3-4 reversible musculoskeletal toxicity was the only dose-limiting toxicity. Increasing dose was associated with increased probability of experiencing dose-limiting toxicity (5.9%, 42.9% and 88.9% for the 5, 20, and 40 mg groups, respectively; P = 0.03). Accrual was discontinued early on the two higher dose levels due to toxicity. A significant decrease in PSA slope was shown in the 20 mg group when compared with the 5 mg group (0.117 and −0.0046, respectively; P = 0.03) The 40 mg group (versus the 5 mg group) showed a similar change (0.109) with a trend towards significance (P = 0.07). An increased serum matrix metalloproteinase 2 level at month 3 compared with the baseline correlated with a decrease in PSA slopes (Slope, 0.001; 95% confidence interval, 0.0002-0.0018; P = 0.02).

Conclusion: These data suggest that marimastat has a biological effect and may effectively delay progression in patients with biochemical relapsed prostate cancer, as shown by the change in PSA slope; however, dose-limiting toxicity at active doses is significant. Confirmatory studies with less toxic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors employing more conventional end points are indicated. This design is feasible and potentially efficient for screening antimetastatic agents.
WOX1 Is Essential for UVB Irradiation–Induced Apoptosis and Down-Regulated via Translational Blockade in UVB-Induced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma In vivo
Authors: Lai Feng-Jie , Cheng Ching-Li , Chen Shur-Tzu , Wu Chin-Han , Hsu Li-Jin , Lee J. Yu-Yun , Chao Sheau-Chiou , Sheen Maw-Chang , Shen Ching-Liang , Chang Nan-Shan , Sheu Hamm-Ming
Published: September 2005

Purpose: We investigated the role of candidate tumor suppressor and proapoptotic WOX1 (also named WWOX, FOR, or WWOXv1) in UVB-induced apoptosis and formation of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCC).

Experimental Design: Expression of WOX1 and family proteins (WWOX) in human primary cutaneous SCCs was examined by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and reverse transcription-PCR. UVB irradiation–induced WOX1 activation (Tyr33 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation), apoptosis, and cutaneous SCC formation were examined both in vitro and in vivo.

Results: Up-regulation of human WOX1, isoform WOX2, and Tyr33 phosphorylation occurred during normal keratinocyte differentiation before cornification and death. Interestingly, significant reduction of these proteins and Tyr33 phosphorylation was observed in nonmetastatic and metastatic cutaneous SCCs (P < 0.001), but without down-regulation of WWOX mRNA (P > 0.05 versus normal controls), indicating a translational blockade of WWOX mRNA to protein. During acute exposure of hairless mice to UVB, WOX1 was up-regulated and activated in epidermal cells in 24 hours. In parallel with the clinical findings in humans, chronic UVB-treated mice developed cutaneous SCCs in 3 months, with significant reduction of WOX1 and Tyr33 phosphorylation and, again, without down-regulation of WWOX mRNA. Human SCC-25 and HaCaT cells were transfected with small interfering RNA–targeting WOX1 and shown to resist UVB-induced WOX1 expression, activation, and apoptosis.

Conclusions: WOX1 is essential for UVB-induced apoptosis and likely to be involved in the terminal differentiation of normal keratinocytes. During UVB-induced cutaneous SCC, epidermal cells have apparently prevented the apoptotic pressure from overexpressed WOX1 by shutting down the translation machinery for WWOX mRNA.
Down-Regulated Xanthine Oxidoreductase Is a Feature of Aggressive Breast Cancer
Authors: Linder Nina , Lundin Johan , Isola Jorma , Lundin Mikael , Raivio Kari O. , Joensuu Heikki
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is a key enzyme in the degradation of DNA, RNA, and high-energy phosphates and also plays a role in milk lipid globule secretion. Given the strong and regulated expression of XOR in normal breast epithelium, and the previously shown alterations of its expression in experimental tumorigenesis, we hypothesized that XOR may be differentially expressed in breast cancer.

Experimental Design: XOR expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in tissue microarray specimens of 1,262 breast cancer patients with a median follow-up of 9.5 years.

Results: Expression of XOR was moderately decreased in 50% and undetectable in another 7% of the tumors. Decreased XOR expression was associated with poor histologic grade of differentiation, ductal and lobular histologic types, large tumor size, high number of positive axillary lymph nodes, and high cyclooxygenase-2 expression, but not with estrogen or progesterone receptor status, Ki-67, p53, or ERBB2 amplification. Absence of XOR expression was associated with unfavorable outcome, and patients with no XOR expression had more than twice the risk of distant recurrence as compared with those with a moderately decreased or normal expression (hazard ratio, 2.21; P < 0.0001). This was also true in patients with node-negative disease (hazard ratio, 2.75; P < 0.0001) as well as in patients with small (≤1 cm) tumors (hazard ratio, 3.09; P = 0.027). In a multivariate survival analysis, negative XOR emerged as an independent prognostic factor both in the entire series (P = 0.01) and among patients with node-negative disease (P = 0.0009).

Conclusion: Loss of XOR identifies breast cancer patients with unfavorable prognosis.
Clinical Significance of Human Kallikrein Gene 6 Messenger RNA Expression in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ogawa Kazuhiko , Utsunomiya Tohru , Mimori Koshi , Tanaka Fumiaki , Inoue Hiroshi , Nagahara Hisashi , Murayama Sadayuki , Mori Masaki
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Human kallikrein gene 6 (KLK6) is a member of the human kallikrein gene family, and recent studies have found that many kallikreins have altered expression patterns in various malignancies. The purpose of the current study was to quantify the expression of KLK6 in malignant and benign colorectal tissues and to statistically analyze whether KLK6 expression levels correlate with clinicopathologic variables and prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer.

Experimental Designs: Paired colorectal tissue samples from cancerous and corresponding noncancerous tissues were obtained from 63 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent surgical resection. Quantitative analyses of KLK6 mRNA expression were done using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR.

Results: KLK6 mRNA overexpression in cancerous tissues compared with normal counterparts was observed in 57 of 63 (90%) patients. The mean expression level of KLK6 mRNA in cancerous tissues was significantly higher than that in noncancerous tissues (P < 0.0001). Elevated KLK6 expression was significantly correlated with serosal invasion (P < 0.05), liver metastasis (P < 0.05), and advanced Duke's stage (P < 0.01). Furthermore, patients with high KLK6 expression had a significantly poorer actuarial overall survival than patients with low KLK6 expression (5-year overall survival rates: 54% and 73%, respectively, P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The results of this study indicated that KLK6 mRNA expression was significantly higher in cancerous than in noncancerous colorectal tissues, and high expression of KLK6 mRNA correlated with serosal invasion, liver metastasis, advanced Duke's stage, and a poor prognosis for patients with colorectal cancer.
Increased Estrogen Receptor βcx Expression during Mammary Carcinogenesis
Authors: Esslimani-Sahla Majida , Kramar Andrew , Simony-Lafontaine Joelle , Warner Margaret , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Rochefort Henri
Published: September 2005

Identification of proteins that markedly vary during early steps of mammary carcinogenesis may help to understand its pathophysiology and to develop a prevention strategy. The expression of total estrogen receptor β (ERβ) protein and of its COOH-terminally spliced variant ERβcx (or ERβ2) was compared in 43 invasive breast cancers and in 39 adjacent normal mammary glands and 26 ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Thirty-six breast cancers were ER positive by radioligand binding assay. The analysis was done by immunohistochemistry on adjacent sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumors using polyclonal anti-ERβ 503 IgY and sheep polyclonal ERβcx antibodies that were previously validated. Nuclear staining was quantified using a computerized image analyzer in selected areas of normal and cancer epithelial cells. Total ERβ expression was high in normal glands, decreased in DCIS (P = 0.0004), and increased from DCIS to invasive tumors (P = 0.029). In contrast, the ERβcx expression was low in normal glands, increased significantly in DCIS (P = 0.0014), and continued to increase in invasive carcinomas (P = 0.0027) in both ERα-positive and ERα-negative tumors. This is the first study showing a significant increase of the ERβcx variant protein in DCIS and invasive breast cancer compared with adjacent normal glands. This contrasts with the decrease of the total ERβ level in the same patients and indicates different mechanisms to explain these variations during mammary carcinogenesis. It also suggests a role of the ERβcx variant in carcinogenesis opposite to the protective effect of the wild-type ERβ1.
A Phase I Trial of Humanized Monoclonal Antibody A33 in Patients with Colorectal Carcinoma: Biodistribution, Pharmacokinetics, and Quantitative Tumor Uptake
Authors: Scott Andrew M. , Lee Fook-Thean , Jones Robert , Hopkins Wendie , MacGregor Duncan , Cebon Jonathan S. , Hannah Anthony , Chong Geoffrey , U Paul , Papenfuss Anthony , Rigopoulos Angela , Sturrock Susan , Murphy Roger , Wirth Veronika , Murone Carmel , Smyth Fiona E. , Knight Simon , Welt Sydney , Ritter Gerd , Richards Elizabeth , Nice Edouard C. , Burgess Antony W. , Old Lloyd J.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: To determine the in vivo characteristics of huA33, a CDR-grafted humanized antibody against the A33 antigen, we have conducted an open-label, dose escalation, biopsy-based phase I trial of huA33 in patients with colorectal carcinoma.

Experimental Design: Patients with colorectal carcinoma were infused with [131I]huA33 (400 MBq: 10 mCi) and [125I]huA33 (40 MBq: 1 mCi) 1 week before surgery. There were four huA33 dose levels (0.25, 1.0, 5.0, and 10 mg/m2). Adverse events, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, tumor biopsies, and immune responses to huA33 were evaluated.

Results: There were 12 patients entered into the trial (6 males and 6 females; age range, 39-66 years). No dose-limiting toxicity was observed. The biodistribution of huA33 showed excellent uptake of [131I]huA33 in metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed no significant difference in terminal half-life (T1/2β) between dose levels (mean ± SD, 86.92 ± 22.12 hours). Modeling of colon uptake of huA33 showed a T1/2 of elimination of 32.4 ± 8.1 hours. Quantitative tumor uptake ranged from 2.1 × 10−3 to 11.1 × 10−3 %ID/g, and tumor/normal tissue and tumor/serum ratios reached as high as 16.3:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Biosensor analysis detected low-level human anti-human antibody responses in four patients following huA33 infusion.

Conclusions: huA33 shows selective and rapid localization to colorectal carcinoma in vivo and penetrates to the center of large necrotic tumors, and colon elimination half-life of huA33 is equivalent to basal colonocyte turnover. The excellent targeting characteristics of this humanized antibody indicate potential for the targeted therapy of metastatic colorectal cancer in future trials.
Delayed Disease Progression after Allogeneic Cell Vaccination in Hormone-Resistant Prostate Cancer and Correlation with Immunologic Variables
Authors: Michael Agnieska , Ball Graham , Quatan Nadine , Wushishi Fatima , Russell Nick , Whelan Joe , Chakraborty Prabir , Leader David , Whelan Michael , Pandha Hardev
Published: September 2005

Purpose: There are a significant number of patients with asymptomatic hormone-resistant prostate cancer who have increasing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels but little or no evaluable disease. The immunogenicity and minimal toxicity associated with cell-based vaccine therapy makes this approach attractive for these patients.

Experimental Design: We have evaluated a vaccine comprising monthly intradermal injection of three irradiated allogeneic prostate cell lines (8 × 106 cells each) over 1 year. The first two doses were supplemented with bacille Calmette-Guérin as vaccine adjuvant. Twenty-eight hormone-resistant prostate cancer patients were enrolled. Patients were assessed clinically and PSA levels were measured monthly. Radiologic scans (X-ray, computed tomography, and bone scan) were taken at baseline and at intervals throughout the treatment period. Comprehensive monthly immunologic monitoring was undertaken including proliferation studies, activation markers, cytokine protein expression, and gene copy number. This longitudinal data was analyzed through predictive modeling using artificial neural network feed-forward/back-propagation algorithms with multilayer perceptron architecture.

Results: Eleven of the 26 patients showed statistically significant, prolonged decreases in their PSA velocity (PSAV). None experienced any significant toxicity. Median time to disease progression was 58 weeks, compared with recent studies of other agents and historical control values of around 28 weeks. PSAV-responding patients showed a titratable TH1 cytokine release profile in response to restimulation with a vaccine lysate, while nonresponders showed a mixed TH1 and TH2 response. Furthermore, immunologic profile correlated with PSAV response by artificial neural network analysis. We found predictive power not only in expression of cytokines after maximal stimulation with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, but also the method of analysis (qPCR measurement of IFN-γ > qPCR measurement tumor necrosis factor-α > protein expression of IFN-γ > protein expression of interleukin 2).

Conclusions: Whole cell allogeneic vaccination in hormone-resistant prostate cancer is nontoxic and improves the natural history of the disease. Longitudinal changes in immunologic function in vaccinated patients may be better interpreted through predictive modeling using tools such as the artificial neural network rather than periodic “snapshot” readouts.
Bladder Cancer Outcome and Subtype Classification by Gene Expression
Authors: Blaveri Ekaterini , Simko Jeff P. , Korkola James E. , Brewer Jeremy L. , Baehner Frederick , Mehta Kshama , DeVries Sandy , Koppie Theresa , Pejavar Sunanda , Carroll Peter , Waldman Frederic M.
Published: September 2005

Models of bladder tumor progression have suggested that genetic alterations may determine both phenotype and clinical course. We have applied expression microarray analysis to a divergent set of bladder tumors to further elucidate the course of disease progression and to classify tumors into more homogeneous and clinically relevant subgroups. cDNA microarrays containing 10,368 human gene elements were used to characterize the global gene expression patterns in 80 bladder tumors, 9 bladder cancer cell lines, and 3 normal bladder samples. Robust statistical approaches accounting for the multiple testing problem were used to identify differentially expressed genes. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering successfully separated the samples into two subgroups containing superficial (pTa and pT1) versus muscle-invasive (pT2-pT4) tumors. Supervised classification had a 90.5% success rate separating superficial from muscle-invasive tumors based on a limited subset of genes. Tumors could also be classified into transitional versus squamous subtypes (89% success rate) and good versus bad prognosis (78% success rate). The performance of our stage classifiers was confirmed in silico using data from an independent tumor set. Validation of differential expression was done using immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays for cathepsin E, cyclin A2, and parathyroid hormone–related protein. Genes driving the separation between tumor subsets may prove to be important biomarkers for bladder cancer development and progression and eventually candidates for therapeutic targeting.
Overexpression of Cyclin D1 Promotes Tumor Cell Growth and Confers Resistance to Cisplatin-Mediated Apoptosis in an Elastase-myc Transgene–Expressing Pancreatic Tumor Cell Line
Authors: Biliran Hector , Wang Yong , Banerjee Sanjeev , Xu Haiming , Heng Henry , Thakur Archana , Bollig Aliccia , Sarkar Fazlul H. , Liao Joshua D.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Elevated cyclin D1 in human pancreatic cancer correlates with poor prognosis. Because pancreatic cancer is invariably resistant to chemotherapy, the goal of this study was to examine whether the drug resistance of pancreatic cancer cells is in part attributed to cyclin D1 overexpression.

Experimental Design: Stable overexpression and small interfering RNA (siRNA)–mediated knockdown of cyclin D1 were done in the newly established Ela-myc pancreatic tumor cell line. Cisplatin sensitivity of control, overexpressing, and siRNA-transfected cells was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, clonogenic, and apoptotic assays [DNA fragmentation, sub-G1, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage analysis]. The role of nuclear factor-κB and apoptotic proteins in cyclin D1-mediated chemoresistance was examined by EMSA and Western blotting, respectively.

Results: Overexpression of cyclin D1 in Ela-myc pancreatic tumor cells promoted cell proliferation and anchorage-independent growth. Moreover, cyclin D1–overexpressing cells exhibited significantly reduced chemosensitivity and a higher survival rate upon cisplatin treatment, as determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and clonogenic assays, respectively. Although overexpression of cyclin D1 rendered cells more resistant to cisplatin-induced apoptosis, siRNA-directed suppression of cyclin D1 expression resulted in enhanced susceptibility to cisplatin-mediated apoptosis. The attenuation of cisplatin-induced cell death in cyclin D1–overexpressing cells was correlated with the up-regulation of nuclear factor-κB activity and maintenance of bcl-2 and bcl-xl protein levels.

Conclusions: These results suggest that overexpression of cyclin D1 can contribute to chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer cells because of the dual roles of cyclin D1 in promoting cell proliferation and in inhibiting drug-induced apoptosis.
Angiogenesis in the Bone Marrow of Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Chavez-MacGregor Mariana , Aviles-Salas Alejandro , Green Dan , Fuentes-Alburo Adolfo , Gómez-Ruiz Celedonio , Aguayo Alvaro
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Pathologic angiogenesis has been correlated with tumor growth, dissemination, metastasis, and prognosis in solid tumors including breast cancer. Angiogenesis has also been implicated in the pathophysiology of, and shown to be a therapeutic target in tumors arising in the bone marrow. The status of angiogenesis in the bone marrow of breast cancer patients is unknown. The aim of this study was to estimate the extent of bone marrow angiogenesis in this subset of patients.

Experimental Design: We studied 42 women with breast cancer in whom a bone marrow biopsy was done. Bone marrow samples were sorted according to their infiltration status by breast cancer cells. In all bone marrow sections, blood vessels were highlighted by staining endothelial cells with an antibody directed against the CD34-related antigen. A hematopathologist blind to the status of infiltration of breast cancer did the bone marrow vessel count.

Results: Nineteen patients (45%) had bone marrow metastasis. The bone marrow microvessel density was significantly higher in patients with bone marrow metastases compared with patients without bone marrow metastases (P < 0.0005). Median bone marrow microvessel density was 2 for the negative bone marrow group, and 15 for the positive bone marrow group. An increased microvessel density was correlated with presence of disease at last follow-up.

Conclusions: This is the first study showing that bone marrow microvessel density is significantly higher in breast cancer patients with bone marrow metastases, when compared with breast cancer patients without evidence of bone marrow metastatic disease. Further research is needed to shed light into the prognostic and therapeutic relevance of this finding.
A Phase I Pharmacologic and Pharmacogenetic Trial of Sequential 24-Hour Infusion of Irinotecan Followed by Leucovorin and a 48-Hour Infusion of Fluorouracil in Adult Patients with Solid Tumors
Authors: Wright Maurice A. , Morrison Geraldine , Lin Pengxin , Leonard Gregory D. , Nguyen Dat , Guo Xaiodu , Szabo Eva , Hopkins Jon L. , Leguizamo Jorge P. , Harold Nancy , Fioravanti Suzanne , Schuler Barbara , Monahan Brian P. , Saif M. Wasif , Quinn Mary G. , Pang Janet , Grem Jean L.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: In preclinical studies, sequential exposure to irinotecan (CPT-11) then fluorouracil (5-FU) is superior to concurrent exposure or the reverse sequence; a 24-hour infusion of CPT-11 may be better tolerated than shorter infusions.

Experimental Design: CPT-11 was first given at four levels (70-140 mg/m2/24 hours), followed by leucovorin 500 mg/m2/0.5 hours and 5-FU 2,000 mg/m2/48 hours on days 1 and 15 of a 4-week cycle. 5-FU was then increased in three cohorts up to 3,900 mg/m2/48 hours.

Results: Two patients had dose-limiting toxicity during cycle 1 at 140/3,900 of CPT-11/5-FU (2-week delay for neutrophil recovery; grade 3 nausea despite antiemetics); one of six patients at 140/3,120 had dose-limiting toxicity (grade 3 diarrhea, grade 4 neutropenia). Four of 22 patients with colorectal cancer had partial responses, two of which had prior bolus CPT-11/5-FU. The mean 5-FU plasma concentration was 5.1 μmol/L at 3,900 mg/m2/48 hours. The end of infusion CPT-11 plasma concentration averaged 519 nmol/L at 140 mg/m2/24 hours. Patients with UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT1A1; TA)6/6 promoter genotype had a lower ratio of free to glucuronide form of SN-38 than in patients with ≥1 (TA)7 allele. Thymidylate synthase genotypes for the 28-base promoter repeat were 2/2 (13%), 2/3 (74%), 3/3 (13%); all four responders had a 2/3 genotype.

Conclusions: Doses (mg/m2) of CPT-11 140/24 hours, leucovorin 500/0.5 hours and 5-FU 3,120/48 hours were well tolerated.
Preoperative Serum DNA GSTP1 CpG Island Hypermethylation and the Risk of Early Prostate-Specific Antigen Recurrence Following Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Bastian Patrick J. , Palapattu Ganesh S. , Lin Xiaohui , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Mangold Leslie A. , Trock Bruce , Eisenberger Mario A. , Partin Alan W. , Nelson William G.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: Hypermethylation of the CpG island at the promoter region of the π-class glutathione S-transferase gene (GSTP1) is the most common somatic genome abnormality in human prostate cancer. We evaluated circulating cell-free DNA GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation as a prognostic biomarker in the serum of men with prostate cancer.

Experimental Design: Prostate cancer DNA GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation was detected using a restriction endonuclease quantitative PCR technique. We analyzed preoperative serum from 85 men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy and from 35 men with a negative prostate biopsy. We then assayed preoperative serum from a data set of 55 pairs of men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy, matched for Gleason score, comprising 55 men suffering prostate-specific antigen (PSA) recurrence (median, 2 years) and 55 men who were free of disease at last follow-up (median, 3 years). The association of serum GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation and PSA recurrence was determined.

Results: Circulating cell-free DNA with GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation was not detected in the serum of men with a negative prostate biopsy but was detected in 12% of men with clinically localized disease and 28% of men with metastatic cancer (P = 0.003). In the matched data set, eight men (15%) who developed PSA recurrence were positive for DNA with GSTP1 CpG hypermethylation, whereas no patient who was free of disease was positive for GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation (McNemar test, χ2 = 6.1, P = 0.01). In a multivariable analysis that accounted for recognized prognostic factors, the presence of serum DNA with GTSP1 CpG island hypermethylation was the most significant predictor of PSA recurrence (hazard ratio, 4.4; 95% confidence interval, 2.2, 8.8; P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Our study suggests that GSTP1 CpG island hypermethylation may be an important DNA-based prognostic serum biomarker for prostate cancer.
Receptors for Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone Expressed on Human Renal Cell Carcinomas Can Be Used for Targeted Chemotherapy with Cytotoxic Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone Analogues
Authors: Keller Gunhild , Schally Andrew V. , Gaiser Timo , Nagy Attila , Baker Benjamin , Halmos Gabor , Engel Jörg B.
Published: September 2005

Purpose: To determine the expression of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) receptors in specimens and cell lines of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and to evaluate the antitumor efficacy of targeted therapy with a cytotoxic analogue of LHRH, AN-207, in vivo. AN-207, consisting of [D-Lys6] LHRH linked to a cytotoxic radical, 2-pyrrolinodoxorubicin (AN-201), binds with high affinity to LHRH receptors and can be targeted to tumors expressing these receptors.

Experimental Design: The expression of LHRH receptors was investigated in 28 surgically removed specimens of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) by immunohistochemistry and in three human RCC cell lines A-498, ACHN, and 786-0 by radioreceptor assays, Western immunoblotting, and reverse transcription-PCR analysis. Antitumor efficacy of AN-207 was examined in experimental models of these cell lines.

Results: Positive staining for LHRH receptors was found in all (28 of 28) of the examined human RCC specimens. mRNA for LHRH receptor, receptor protein, and LHRH binding sites were detected in all three cell lines. AN-207 significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the growth of A-498, ACHN, and 786-0 xenografts in vivo producing a 67.8% to 73.8% decrease in tumor volume and a 62.2% to 77.3% reduction in tumor weight. Nontargeted cytotoxic radical AN-201 had no significant antitumor effects. Blockade of LHRH receptors by an excess of LHRH agonist Decapeptyl suppressed tumor inhibitory effects of AN-207.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that LHRH receptors are expressed in human RCC specimens and can be used for targeted chemotherapy with cytotoxic LHRH analogues.