bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from DKK2 Mediates Osteolysis, Invasiveness, and Metastatic Spread in Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Hauer Kristina , Calzada-Wack Julia , Steiger Katja , Grunewald Thomas G.P. , Baumhoer Daniel , Plehm Stephanie , Buch Thorsten , da Costa Olivia Prazeres , Esposito Irene , Burdach Stefan , Richter Günther H.S.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Ewing sarcoma, an osteolytic malignancy that mainly affects children and young adults, is characterized by early metastasis to lung and bone. In this study, we identified the pro-metastatic gene DKK2 as a highly overexpressed gene in Ewing sarcoma compared with corresponding normal tissues. Using RNA interference, we showed that DKK2 was critical for malignant cell outgrowth in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model in vivo. Analysis of invasion potential in both settings revealed a strong correlation of DKK2 expression to Ewing sarcoma invasiveness that may be mediated by the DKK effector matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1). Furthermore, gene expression analyses established the ability of DKK2 to differentially regulate genes such as CXCR4, PTHrP, RUNX2, and TGFβ1 that are associated with homing, invasion, and growth of cancer cells in bone tissue as well as genes important for osteolysis, including HIF1α, JAG1, IL6, and VEGF. DKK2 promoted bone infiltration and osteolysis in vivo and further analyses defined DKK2 as a key factor in osteotropic malignancy. Interestingly, in Ewing sarcoma cells, DKK2 suppression simultaneously increased the potential for neuronal differentiation while decreasing chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Our results provide strong evidence that DKK2 is a key player in Ewing sarcoma invasion and osteolysis and also in the differential phenotype of Ewing sarcoma cells. Cancer Res; 73(2); 967–77. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of Cholinergic Signaling Causes Apoptosis in Human Bronchioalveolar Carcinoma
Authors: Lau Jamie K. , Brown Kathleen C. , Thornhill Brent A. , Crabtree Clayton M. , Dom Aaron M. , Witte Theodore R. , Hardman W. Elaine , McNees Christopher A. , Stover Cody A. , Carpenter A. Betts , Luo Haitao , Chen Yi C. , Shiflett Brandon S. , Dasgupta Piyali
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Recent case-controlled clinical studies show that bronchioalveolar carcinomas (BAC) are correlated with smoking. Nicotine, the addictive component of cigarettes, accelerates cell proliferation through nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). In this study, we show that human BACs produce acetylcholine (ACh) and contain several cholinergic factors including acetylcholinesterase (AChE), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), choline transporter 1 (CHT1, SLC5A7), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT, SLC18A3), and nACh receptors (AChRs, CHRNAs). Nicotine increased the production of ACh in human BACs, and ACh acts as a growth factor for these cells. Nicotine-induced ACh production was mediated by α7-, α3β2-, and β3-nAChRs, ChAT and VAChT pathways. We observed that nicotine upregulated ChAT and VAChT. Therefore, we conjectured that VAChT antagonists, such as vesamicol, may suppress the growth of human BACs. Vesamicol induced potent apoptosis of human BACs in cell culture and nude mice models. Vesamicol did not have any effect on EGF or insulin-like growth factor-II–induced growth of human BACs. siRNA-mediated attenuation of VAChT reversed the apoptotic activity of vesamicol. We also observed that vesamicol inhibited Akt phosphorylation during cell death and that overexpression of constitutively active Akt reversed the apoptotic activity of vesamicol. Taken together, our results suggested that disruption of nicotine-induced cholinergic signaling by agents such as vesamicol may have applications in BAC therapy. Cancer Res; 73(4); 1328–39. ©2012 AACR.
Data from BRCA1 Deficiency Exacerbates Estrogen-Induced DNA Damage and Genomic Instability
Authors: Savage Kienan I. , Matchett Kyle B. , Barros Eliana M. , Cooper Kevin M. , Irwin Gareth W. , Gorski Julia J. , Orr Katy S. , Vohhodina Jekaterina , Kavanagh Joy N. , Madden Angelina F. , Powell Alexander , Manti Lorenzo , McDade Simon S. , Park Ben Ho , Prise Kevin M. , McIntosh Stuart A. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Richard Derek J. , Elliott Christopher T. , Harkin D. Paul
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Germline mutations in BRCA1 predispose carriers to a high incidence of breast and ovarian cancers. BRCA1 functions to maintain genomic stability through critical roles in DNA repair, cell-cycle arrest, and transcriptional control. A major question has been why BRCA1 loss or mutation leads to tumors mainly in estrogen-regulated tissues, given that BRCA1 has essential functions in all cell types. Here, we report that estrogen and estrogen metabolites can cause DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) in estrogen receptor-α–negative breast cells and that BRCA1 is required to repair these DSBs to prevent metabolite-induced genomic instability. We found that BRCA1 also regulates estrogen metabolism and metabolite-mediated DNA damage by repressing the transcription of estrogen-metabolizing enzymes, such as CYP1A1, in breast cells. Finally, we used a knock-in human cell model with a heterozygous BRCA1 pathogenic mutation to show how BRCA1 haploinsufficiency affects these processes. Our findings provide pivotal new insights into why BRCA1 mutation drives the formation of tumors in estrogen-regulated tissues, despite the general role of BRCA1 in DNA repair in all cell types. Cancer Res; 74(10); 2773–84. ©2014 AACR.
Data from A Chimeric Receptor with NKG2D Specificity Enhances Natural Killer Cell Activation and Killing of Tumor Cells
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsiang , Connolly John , Shimasaki Noriko , Mimura Kousaku , Kono Koji , Campana Dario
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells rely on surface receptors to distinguish healthy cells from cancer cells. We designed a receptor termed NKG2D-DAP10-CD3ζ that is composed of the NK cell activating molecule NKG2D plus 2 key signaling molecules, DAP10 and CD3ζ, and evaluated its capacity to promote cancer cell killing. Retroviral transduction of NKG2D-DAP10-CD3ζ markedly increased NKG2D surface expression in NK cells, which became consistently more cytotoxic than mock-transduced cells against leukemia and solid tumor cell lines. In contrast, there was no increase in cytotoxicity against nontransformed blood and mesenchymal cells. NKG2D blockade abrogated gains in cytotoxicity to cancer cells. Receptor stimulation triggered signal transduction, secretion of IFN-γ, GM-CSF, IL-13, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, CCL5, and TNF-α, and massive release of cytotoxic granules, which persisted after 48 hours of continuous stimulation. NKG2D-DAP10-CD3ζ–expressing NK cells had considerable antitumor activity in a mouse model of osteosarcoma, whereas activated NK cells were ineffective. Thus, the cytotoxic potential of NK cells against a wide spectrum of tumor subtypes could be markedly enhanced by expression of NKG2D-DAP10-CD3ζ receptors. The development of an electroporation method that permits rapid expression of the receptor in a large number of human NK cells facilitates clinical translation of this NK-based strategy for a generalized cellular therapy that may be useful to treat a wide range of cancers. Cancer Res; 73(6); 1777–86. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Drug–Gene Modeling in Pediatric T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Highlights Importance of 6-Mercaptopurine for Outcome
Authors: Beesley Alex H. , Firth Martin J. , Anderson Denise , Samuels Amy L. , Ford Jette , Kees Ursula R.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Patients relapsing with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) face a dismal outcome. The aim of this study was to identify new markers of drug resistance and clinical response in T-ALL. We measured gene expression and drug sensitivity in 15 pediatric T-ALL cell lines to find signatures predictive of resistance to 10 agents used in therapy. These were used to generate a model for outcome prediction in patient cohorts using microarray data from diagnosis specimens. In three independent T-ALL cohorts, the 10-drug model was able to accurately identify patient outcome, indicating that the in vitro–derived drug–gene profiles were clinically relevant. Importantly, predictions of outcome within each cohort were linked to distinct drugs, suggesting that different mechanisms contribute to relapse. Sulfite oxidase (SUOX) expression and the drug-transporter ABCC1 (MRP1) were linked to thiopurine sensitivity, suggesting novel pathways for targeting resistance. This study advances our understanding of drug resistance in T-ALL and provides new markers for patient stratification. The results suggest potential benefit from the earlier use of 6-mercaptopurine in T-ALL therapy or the development of adjuvants that may sensitize blasts to this drug. The methodology developed in this study could be applied to other cancers to achieve patient stratification at the time of diagnosis. Cancer Res; 73(9); 2749–59. ©2013 AACR.
Data from EGFR Activation and Signaling in Cancer Cells Are Enhanced by the Membrane-Bound Metalloprotease MT4-MMP
Authors: Paye Alexandra , Truong Alice , Yip Cassandre , Cimino Jonathan , Blacher Silvia , Munaut Carine , Cataldo Didier , Foidart Jean Michel , Maquoi Erik , Collignon Joelle , Delvenne Philippe , Jerusalem Guy , Noel Agnès , Sounni Nor Eddine
Published: March 2023

Abstract
MT4-MMP (MMP-17) is a glycosylphosphatidyl inositol–anchored matrix metalloprotease expressed on the surface of cancer cells that promotes tumor growth and metastasis. In this report, we identify MT4-MMP as an important driver of cancer cell proliferation through CDK4 activation and retinoblastoma protein inactivation. We also determine a functional link between MT4-MMP and the growth factor receptor EGFR. Mechanistic experiments revealed direct association of MT4-MMP and its positive effects on EGFR phosphorylation in response to TGFα and EGF in cancer cells. Notably, the effects of MT4-MMP on proliferation and EGFR activation did not rely on metalloprotease activity. Clinically, MT4-MMP and EGFR expressions were correlated in human triple-negative breast cancer specimens. Altogether, our results identify MT4-MMP as a positive modifier of EGFR outside-in signaling that acts to cooperatively drive cancer cell proliferation. Cancer Res; 74(23); 6758–70. ©2014 AACR.
Data from p16INK4a Impairs Homologous Recombination–Mediated DNA Repair in Human Papillomavirus–Positive Head and Neck Tumors
Authors: Dok Rüveyda , Kalev Peter , Van Limbergen Evert Jan , Asbagh Layka Abbasi , Vázquez Iria , Hauben Esther , Sablina Anna , Nuyts Sandra
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The p16INK4a protein is a principal cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor that decelerates the cell cycle. Abnormally high levels of p16INK4a are commonly observed in human papillomavirus (HPV)–positive head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). We and others found that p16INK4a overexpression is associated with improved therapy response and survival of patients with HNSCC treated with radiotherapy. However, the functional role of p16INK4a in HNSCC remains unexplored. Our results implicate p16INK4a in regulation of homologous recombination–mediated DNA damage response independently from its role in control of the cell cycle. We found that expression of p16INK4a dramatically affects radiation sensitivity of HNSCC cells. p16INK4a overexpression impairs the recruitment of RAD51 to the site of DNA damage in HPV-positive cells by downregulating of cyclin D1 protein expression. Consistent with the in vitro findings, immunostaining of HNSCC patient samples revealed that high levels p16INK4a expression significantly correlated with decreased cyclin D1 expression. In summary, these findings reveal an unexpected function of p16INK4a in homologous recombination–mediated DNA repair response and imply p16INK4a status as an independent marker to predict response of patients with HNSCC to radiotherapy. Cancer Res; 74(6); 1739–51. ©2014 AACR.
Data from RG7116, a Therapeutic Antibody That Binds the Inactive HER3 Receptor and Is Optimized for Immune Effector Activation
Authors: Mirschberger Christian , Schiller Christian B. , Schräml Michael , Dimoudis Nikolaos , Friess Thomas , Gerdes Christian A. , Reiff Ulrike , Lifke Valeria , Hoelzlwimmer Gabriele , Kolm Irene , Hopfner Karl-Peter , Niederfellner Gerhard , Bossenmaier Birgit
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The EGF receptor (EGFR) HER3 is emerging as an attractive cancer therapeutic target due to its central position in the HER receptor signaling network. HER3 amplifies phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)–driven tumorigenesis and its upregulation in response to other anti-HER therapies has been implicated in resistance to them. Here, we report the development and characterization of RG7116, a novel anti-HER3 monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed to block HER3 activation, downregulate HER3, and mediate enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) via glycoengineering of the Fc moiety. Biochemical studies and X-ray crystallography revealed that RG7116 bound potently and selectively to domain 1 of human HER3. Heregulin binding was prevented by RG7116 at concentrations more than 1 nmol/L as was nearly complete inhibition of HER3 heterodimerization and phosphorylation, thereby preventing downstream AKT phosphorylation. In vivo RG7116 treatment inhibited xenograft tumor growth up to 90% relative to controls in a manner accompanied by downregulation of cell surface HER3. RG7116 efficacy was further enhanced in combination with anti-EGFR (RG7160) or anti-HER2 (pertuzumab) mAbs. Furthermore, the ADCC potency of RG7116 was enhanced compared with the nonglycoengineered parental antibody, both in vitro and in orthotopic tumor xenograft models, where an increased median survival was documented. ADCC degree achieved in vitro correlated with HER3 expression levels on tumor cells. In summary, the combination of strong signaling inhibition and enhanced ADCC capability rendered RG7116 a highly potent HER3-targeting agent suitable for clinical development. Cancer Res; 73(16); 5183–94. ©2013 AACR.
Data from LRH-1 Governs Vital Transcriptional Programs in Endocrine-Sensitive and -Resistant Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Bianco Stéphanie , Brunelle Mylène , Jangal Maïka , Magnani Luca , Gévry Nicolas
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Tumor characteristics are decisive in the determination of treatment strategy for patients with breast cancer. Patients with estrogen receptor α (ERα)–positive breast cancer can benefit from long-term hormonal treatment. Nonetheless, the majority of patients will develop resistance to these therapies. Here, we investigated the role of the nuclear receptor liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1, NR5A2) in antiestrogen-sensitive and -resistant breast cancer cells. We identified genome-wide LRH-1–binding sites using ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing), uncovering preferential binding to regions distal to transcriptional start sites. We further characterized these LRH-1–binding sites by integrating overlapping layers of specific chromatin marks, revealing that many LRH-1–binding sites are active and could be involved in long-range enhancer–promoter looping. Combined with transcriptome analysis of LRH-1–depleted cells, these results show that LRH-1 regulates specific subsets of genes involved in cell proliferation in antiestrogen-sensitive and antiestrogen-resistant breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the LRH-1 transcriptional program is highly associated with a signature of poor outcome and high-grade breast cancer tumors in vivo. Herein, we report the genome-wide location and molecular function of LRH-1 in breast cancer cells and reveal its therapeutic potential for the treatment of breast cancers, notably for tumors resistant to treatments currently used in therapies. Cancer Res; 74(7); 2015–25. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Small Molecule Agonists of PPAR-γ Exert Therapeutic Effects in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Sawayama Hiroshi , Ishimoto Takatsugu , Watanabe Masayuki , Yoshida Naoya , Sugihara Hidetaka , Kurashige Junji , Hirashima Kotaro , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Baba Yoshifumi , Oki Eiji , Morita Masaru , Shiose Yoshinobu , Baba Hideo
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The transcription factor PPAR-γ plays various roles in lipid metabolism, inflammation, cellular differentiation, and apoptosis. PPAR-γ agonists used to treat diabetes may have utility in cancer treatment. Efatutazone is a novel later generation PPAR-γ agonist that selectively activates PPAR-γ target genes and has antiproliferative effects in a range of malignancies. In this study, we investigated PPAR-γ status in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and investigated the antiproliferative effects of efatutazone. PPAR-γ was expressed heterogeneously in ESCC, in which it exhibited an inverse relationship with Ki-67 expression. PPAR-γ expression was associated independently with good prognosis in ESCC. Efatutazone, but not the conventional PPAR-γ agonist troglitazone, inhibited ESCC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic investigations suggested that efatutazone acted by upregulating p21Cip1 protein in the nucleus through inactivation of the Akt pathway and dephosphorylation of p21Cip1 at Thr145 without affecting the transcriptional activity of p21Cip1. We also found that treatment with efatutazone led to phosphorylation of the EGF receptor and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Accordingly, the combination of efatutazone with the antiepithelial growth factor receptor antibody cetuximab synergized to negatively regulate the phosphoinositide 3-kinase–Akt and MAPK pathways. Together, our results suggest that efatutazone, alone or in combination with cetuximab, may offer therapeutic effects in ESCC. Cancer Res; 74(2); 575–85. ©2013 AACR.
Data from PP2A-B55β Antagonizes Cyclin E1 Proteolysis and Promotes Its Dysregulation in Cancer
Authors: Tan YingMeei , Sun Dahui , Jiang Weijian , Klotz-Noack Kathleen , Vashisht Ajay A. , Wohlschlegel James , Widschwendter Martin , Spruck Charles
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Cyclin E1 regulates the initiation of S-phase in cellular division. However, in many cancers, cyclin E1 is aberrantly overexpressed and this molecular phenotype correlates with increased tumor aggressiveness and poor patient survival. The molecular cause(s) of cyclin E1 abnormalities in cancers is poorly understood. Here, we show that cyclin E1 overexpression in cancer is promoted by dysregulation of the protein phosphatase PP2A-B55β. PP2A-B55β targets the N- and C-terminal phosphodegrons of cyclin E1 for dephosphorylation, thus protecting it from degradation mediated by the SCFFbxw7 ubiquitin ligase. Augmented B55β expression stabilizes cyclin E1 and promotes its overexpression in cancer-derived cell lines and breast tumors. Conversely, B55β ablation enforces the degradation of cyclin E1 and inhibits cancer cell proliferation in vitro and tumor formation in vivo. Therefore, PP2A-B55β promotes cyclin E1 overexpression by antagonizing its degradation and its inhibition could represent a therapeutic mechanism for abrogating cyclin E1 function in cancers. Cancer Res; 74(7); 2006–14. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Chromosome 10, Frequently Lost in Human Melanoma, Encodes Multiple Tumor-Suppressive Functions
Authors: Kwong Lawrence N. , Chin Lynda
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Although many DNA aberrations in melanoma have been well characterized, including focal amplification and deletions of oncogenes and tumor suppressors, broad regions of chromosomal gain and loss are less well understood. One possibility is that these broad events are a consequence of collateral damage from targeting single loci. Another possibility is that the loss of large regions permits the simultaneous repression of multiple tumor suppressors by broadly decreasing the resident gene dosage and expression. Here, we test this hypothesis in a targeted fashion using RNA interference to suppress multiple candidate residents in broad regions of loss. We find that loss of chromosome regions 6q, 10, and 11q21-ter is correlated with broadly decreased expression of most resident genes and that multiple resident genes impacted by broad regional loss of chromosome 10 are tumor suppressors capable of affecting tumor growth and/or invasion. We also provide additional functional support for Ablim1 as a novel tumor suppressor. Our results support the hypothesis that multiple cancer genes are targeted by regional chromosome copy number aberrations. Cancer Res; 74(6); 1814–21. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Bioluminescent Imaging of HPV-Positive Oral Tumor Growth and Its Response to Image-Guided Radiotherapy
Authors: Zhong Rong , Pytynia Matt , Pelizzari Charles , Spiotto Michael
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The treatment paradigms for head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) are changing due to the emergence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated tumors possessing distinct molecular profiles and responses to therapy. Although patients with HNSCCs are often treated with radiotherapy, preclinical models are limited by the ability to deliver precise radiation to orthotopic tumors and to monitor treatment responses accordingly. To better model this clinical scenario, we developed a novel autochthonous HPV-positive oral tumor model to track responses to small molecules and image-guided radiation. We used a tamoxifen-regulated Cre recombinase system to conditionally express the HPV oncogenes E6 and E7 as well as a luciferase reporter (iHPV-Luc) in the epithelial cells of transgenic mice. In the presence of activated Cre recombinase, luciferase activity, and by proxy, HPV oncogenes were induced to 11-fold higher levels. In triple transgenic mice containing the iHPV-Luc, K14-CreERtam, and LSL-Kras transgenes, tamoxifen treatment resulted in oral tumor development with increased bioluminescent activity within 6 days that reached a maximum of 74.8-fold higher bioluminescence compared with uninduced mice. Oral tumors expressed p16 and MCM7, two biomarkers associated with HPV-positive tumors. After treatment with rapamycin or image-guided radiotherapy, tumors regressed and possessed decreased bioluminescence. Thus, this novel system enables us to rapidly visualize HPV-positive tumor growth to model existing and new interventions using clinically relevant drugs and radiotherapy techniques. Cancer Res; 74(7); 2073–81. ©2014 AACR.
Data from EGF Receptor Activates MET through MAPK to Enhance Non–Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Invasion and Brain Metastasis
Authors: Breindel Jerrica L. , Haskins Jonathan W. , Cowell Elizabeth P. , Zhao Minghui , Nguyen Don X. , Stern David F.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
MET amplification as a mechanism of acquired resistance to EGF receptor (EGFR)-targeted therapies in non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) led to investigation of novel combinations of EGFR and MET kinase inhibitors. However, promiscuous interactions between MET and ERBB family members have made it difficult to evaluate the effects of MET on EGFR signaling, both independent of drug treatment and in the context of drug resistance. We addressed this issue by establishing a 32D model cell system wherein ERBBs or MET are expressed alone and in combination. Using this model, we determined that EGFR signaling is sufficient to induce MET phosphorylation, although MET activation is enhanced by coexpression of ERBB3. EGFR–MET cross-talk was not direct, but occurred by a combined regulation of MET levels and intermediary signaling through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). In NSCLCs harboring either wild-type or mutant EGFR, inhibiting EGFR or MAPK reduced MET activation and protein levels. Furthermore, MET signaling promoted EGFR-driven migration and invasion. Finally, EGFR–MET signaling was enhanced in a highly metastatic EGFR-mutant cell subpopulation, compared with the indolent parental line, and MET attenuation decreased the incidence of brain metastasis. Overall, our results establish that EGFR–MET signaling is critical for aggressive behavior of NSCLCs and rationalize its continued investigation as a therapeutic target for tumors harboring both wild-type and mutant EGFR at early stages of progression. Cancer Res; 73(16); 5053–65. ©2013 AACR.
Data from ATR Inhibitors VE-821 and VX-970 Sensitize Cancer Cells to Topoisomerase I Inhibitors by Disabling DNA Replication Initiation and Fork Elongation Responses
Authors: Jossé Rozenn , Martin Scott E. , Guha Rajarshi , Ormanoglu Pinar , Pfister Thomas D. , Reaper Philip M. , Barnes Christopher S. , Jones Julie , Charlton Peter , Pollard John R. , Morris Joel , Doroshow James H. , Pommier Yves
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Camptothecin and its derivatives, topotecan and irinotecan, are specific topoisomerase I (Top1) inhibitors and potent anticancer drugs killing cancer cells by producing replication-associated DNA double-strand breaks, and the indenoisoquinoline LMP-400 (indotecan) is a novel Top1 inhibitor in clinical trial. To develop novel drug combinations, we conducted a synthetic lethal siRNA screen using a library that targets nearly 7,000 human genes. Depletion of ATR, the main transducer of replication stress, came as a top candidate gene for camptothecin synthetic lethality. Validation studies using ATR siRNA and the ATR inhibitor VE-821 confirmed marked antiproliferative synergy with camptothecin and even greater synergy with LMP-400. Single-cell analyses and DNA fiber combing assays showed that VE-821 abrogates the S-phase replication elongation checkpoint and the replication origin–firing checkpoint induced by camptothecin and LMP-400. As expected, the combination of Top1 inhibitors with VE-821 inhibited the phosphorylation of ATR and Chk1; however, it strongly induced γH2AX. In cells treated with the combination, the γH2AX pattern changed over time from the well-defined Top1-induced damage foci to an intense peripheral and diffuse nuclear staining, which could be used as response biomarker. Finally, the clinical derivative of VE-821, VX-970, enhanced the in vivo tumor response to irinotecan without additional toxicity. A key implication of our work is the mechanistic rationale and proof of principle it provides to evaluate the combination of Top1 inhibitors with ATR inhibitors in clinical trials. Cancer Res; 74(23); 6968–79. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Increased Dietary Vitamin D Suppresses MAPK Signaling, Colitis, and Colon Cancer
Authors: Meeker Stacey , Seamons Audrey , Paik Jisun , Treuting Piper M. , Brabb Thea , Grady William M. , Maggio-Price Lillian
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Epidemiologic studies associate low serum vitamin D levels with an increased risk of colon cancer and inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 129-Smad3tm1Par/J (Smad3−/−) mice are a model of bacteria-driven colitis and colon cancer when infected with Helicobacter bilis (H. bilis). Thus, we used this mouse model to determine whether increased dietary vitamin D would reduce inflammation and colon cancer. Smad3−/− mice were fed purified diet with either maintenance (1 IU vitamin D/g diet; maintenance) or increased concentrations of vitamin D (5 IU vitamin D/g diet; high vitamin D). One week after diet initiation, mice were inoculated with broth or H. bilis and were necropsied at several time points postinoculation to assess inflammation, dysplasia, and neoplasia incidence. At 16 weeks postinfection, 11% of mice fed high vitamin D diet had cancer compared with 41% of mice fed maintenance diet (P = 0.0121). Evaluation at an early time point (1 week postinfection) showed that animals fed high vitamin D had decreased MAPK (p-P38 and p-JNK) activation in lamina propria leukocytes as well as decreased NFκB activation in colonic epithelial cells. Reduction in MAPK and NFκB activation correlated with decreased IBD scores (2.7 vs. 15.5; P < 0.0001) as well as decreased inflammatory cell infiltrates and reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines in cecal tissue. These findings suggest that increased dietary vitamin D is beneficial in preventing inflammation-associated colon cancer through suppression of inflammatory responses during initiation of neoplasia or early-stage carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 74(16); 4398–408. ©2014 AACR.
Data from LIMD2 Is a Small LIM-Only Protein Overexpressed in Metastatic Lesions That Regulates Cell Motility and Tumor Progression by Directly Binding to and Activating the Integrin-Linked Kinase
Authors: Peng Hongzhuang , Talebzadeh-Farrooji Mehdi , Osborne Michael J. , Prokop Jeremy W. , McDonald Paul C. , Karar Jayashree , Hou Zhaoyuan , He Mei , Kebebew Electron , Orntoft Torben , Herlyn Meenhard , Caton Andrew J. , Fredericks William , Malkowicz Bruce , Paterno Christopher S. , Carolin Alexandra S. , Speicher David W. , Skordalakes Emmanuel , Huang Qihong , Dedhar Shoukat , Borden Katherine L.B. , Rauscher Frank J.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Proteins that communicate signals from the cytoskeleton to the nucleus are prime targets for effectors of metastasis as they often transduce signals regulating adhesion, motility, and invasiveness. LIM domain proteins shuttle between the cytoplasm and the nucleus, and bind to partners in both compartments, often coupling changes in gene expression to extracellular cues. In this work, we characterize LIMD2, a mechanistically undefined LIM-only protein originally found to be overexpressed in metastatic lesions but absent in the matched primary tumor. LIMD2 levels in fresh and archival tumors positively correlate with cell motility, metastatic potential, and grade, including bladder, melanoma, breast, and thyroid tumors. LIMD2 directly contributes to these cellular phenotypes as shown by overexpression, knockdown, and reconstitution experiments in cell culture models. The solution structure of LIMD2 that was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance revealed a classic LIM-domain structure that was highly related to LIM1 of PINCH1, a core component of the integrin-linked kinase–parvin–pinch complex. Structural and biochemical analyses revealed that LIMD2 bound directly to the kinase domain of integrin-linked kinase (ILK) near the active site and strongly activated ILK kinase activity. Cells that were null for ILK failed to respond to the induction of invasion by LIMD2. This strongly suggests that LIMD2 potentiates its biologic effects through direct interactions with ILK, a signal transduction pathway firmly linked to cell motility and invasion. In summary, LIMD2 is a new component of the signal transduction cascade that links integrin-mediated signaling to cell motility/metastatic behavior and may be a promising target for controlling tumor spread. Cancer Res; 74(5); 1390–403. ©2014 AACR.
Data from p53 and NF-κB Coregulate Proinflammatory Gene Responses in Human Macrophages
Authors: Lowe Julie M. , Menendez Daniel , Bushel Pierre R. , Shatz Maria , Kirk Erin L. , Troester Melissa A. , Garantziotis Stavros , Fessler Michael B. , Resnick Michael A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Macrophages are sentinel immune cells that survey the tissue microenvironment, releasing cytokines in response to both exogenous insults and endogenous events such as tumorigenesis. Macrophages mediate tumor surveillance and therapy-induced tumor regression; however, tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and their products may also promote tumor progression. Whereas NF-κB is prominent in macrophage-initiated inflammatory responses, little is known about the role of p53 in macrophage responses to environmental challenge, including chemotherapy or in TAMs. Here, we report that NF-κB and p53, which generally have opposing effects in cancer cells, coregulate induction of proinflammatory genes in primary human monocytes and macrophages. Using Nutlin-3 as a tool, we demonstrate that p53 and NF-κB rapidly and highly induce interleukin (IL)-6 by binding to its promoter. Transcriptome analysis revealed global p53/NF-κB co-regulation of immune response genes, including several chemokines, which effectively induced human neutrophil migration. In addition, we show that p53, activated by tumor cell paracrine factors, induces high basal levels of macrophage IL-6 in a TAM model system [tumor-conditioned macrophages (TCM)]. Compared with normal macrophages, TCMs exhibited higher p53 levels, enhanced p53 binding to the IL-6 promoter, and reduced IL-6 levels upon p53 inhibition. Taken together, we describe a mechanism by which human macrophages integrate signals through p53 and NF-κB to drive proinflammatory cytokine induction. Our results implicate a novel role for macrophage p53 in conditioning the tumor microenvironment and suggest a potential mechanism by which p53-activating chemotherapeutics, acting upon p53-sufficient macrophages and precursor monocytes, may indirectly impact tumors lacking functional p53. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2182–92. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Endothelial-Specific Notch Blockade Inhibits Vascular Function and Tumor Growth through an eNOS-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Patenaude Alexandre , Fuller Megan , Chang Linda , Wong Fred , Paliouras Grigorios , Shaw Rebecca , Kyle Alastair H. , Umlandt Patricia , Baker Jennifer H.E. , Diaz Erika , Tong Jade , Minchinton Andrew I. , Karsan Aly
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Notch signaling is important for tumor angiogenesis induced by vascular endothelial growth factor A. Blockade of the Notch ligand Dll4 inhibits tumor growth in a paradoxical way. Dll4 inhibition increases endothelial cell sprouting, but vessels show reduced perfusion. The reason for this lack of perfusion is not currently understood. Here we report that inhibition of Notch signaling in endothelial cell using an inducible binary transgenic system limits VEGFA-driven tumor growth and causes endothelial dysfunction. Neither excessive endothelial cell sprouting nor defects of pericyte abundance accompanied the inhibition of tumor growth and functional vasculature. However, biochemical and functional analysis revealed that endothelial nitric oxide production is decreased by Notch inhibition. Treatment with the soluble guanylate cyclase activator BAY41-2272, a vasorelaxing agent that acts downstream of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) by directly activating its soluble guanylyl cyclase receptor, rescued blood vessel function and tumor growth. We show that reduction in nitric oxide signaling is an early alteration induced by Notch inhibition and suggest that lack of functional vessels observed with Notch inhibition is secondary to inhibition of nitric oxide signaling. Coculture and tumor growth assays reveal that Notch-mediated nitric oxide production in endothelial cell requires VEGFA signaling. Together, our data support that eNOS inhibition is responsible for the tumor growth and vascular function defects induced by endothelial Notch inhibition. This study uncovers a novel mechanism of nitric oxide production in endothelial cells in tumors, with implications for understanding the peculiar character of tumor blood vessels. Cancer Res; 74(9); 2402–11. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Kinase Domain Activation of FGFR2 Yields High-Grade Lung Adenocarcinoma Sensitive to a Pan-FGFR Inhibitor in a Mouse Model of NSCLC
Authors: Tchaicha Jeremy H. , Akbay Esra A. , Altabef Abigail , Mikse Oliver R. , Kikuchi Eiki , Rhee Kevin , Liao Rachel G. , Bronson Roderick T. , Sholl Lynette M. , Meyerson Matthew , Hammerman Peter S. , Wong Kwok-Kin
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Somatic mutations in FGFR2 are present in 4% to 5% of patients diagnosed with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Amplification and mutations in FGFR genes have been identified in patients with NSCLCs, and clinical trials are testing the efficacy of anti-FGFR therapies. FGFR2 and other FGFR kinase family gene alterations have been found in both lung squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma, although mouse models of FGFR-driven lung cancers have not been reported. Here, we generated a genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) of NSCLC driven by a kinase domain mutation in FGFR2. Combined with p53 ablation, primary grade 3/4 adenocarcinoma was induced in the lung epithelial compartment exhibiting locally invasive and pleiotropic tendencies largely made up of multinucleated cells. Tumors were acutely sensitive to pan-FGFR inhibition. This is the first FGFR2-driven lung cancer GEMM, which can be applied across different cancer indications in a preclinical setting. Cancer Res; 74(17); 4676–84. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Endothelin A Receptor/β-Arrestin Signaling to the Wnt Pathway Renders Ovarian Cancer Cells Resistant to Chemotherapy
Authors: Rosanò Laura , Cianfrocca Roberta , Tocci Piera , Spinella Francesca , Di Castro Valeriana , Caprara Valentina , Semprucci Elisa , Ferrandina Gabriella , Natali Pier Giorgio , Bagnato Anna
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The high mortality of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is mainly caused by resistance to the available therapies. In EOC, the endothelin-1 (ET-1, EDN1)–endothelin A receptor (ETAR, EDNRA) signaling axis regulates the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and a chemoresistant phenotype. However, there is a paucity of knowledge about how ET-1 mediates drug resistance. Here, we define a novel bypass mechanism through which ETAR/β-arrestin-1 (β-arr1, ARRB1) links Wnt signaling to acquire chemoresistant and EMT phenotype. We found that ETAR/β-arr1 activity promoted nuclear complex with β-catenin and p300, resulting in histone acetylation, chromatin reorganization, and enhanced transcription of genes, such as ET-1, enhancing the network that sustains chemoresistance. Silencing of β-arr1 or pharmacologic treatment with the dual ETAR/ETBR antagonist macitentan prevented core complex formation and restored drug sensitivity, impairing the signaling pathways involved in cell survival, EMT, and invasion. In vivo macitentan treatment reduced tumor growth, vascularization, intravasation, and metastatic progression. The combination of macitentan and cisplatinum resulted in the potentiation of the cytotoxic effect, indicating that macitentan can enhance sensitivity to chemotherapy. Investigations in clinical specimens of chemoresistant EOC tissues confirmed increased recruitment of β-arr1 and β-catenin to ET-1 gene promoter. In these tissues, high expression of ETAR significantly associated with poor clinical outcome and chemoresistance. Collectively, our findings reveal the existence of a novel mechanism by which ETAR/β-arr1 signaling is integrated with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to sustain chemoresistance in EOC, and they offer a solid rationale for clinical evaluation of macitentan in combination with chemotherapy to overcome chemoresistance in this setting. Cancer Res; 74(24); 7453–64. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Vemurafenib Cooperates with HPV to Promote Initiation of Cutaneous Tumors
Authors: Holderfield Matthew , Lorenzana Edward , Weisburd Ben , Lomovasky Lisa , Boussemart Lise , Lacroix Ludovic , Tomasic Gorana , Favre Michel , Vagner Stephan , Robert Caroline , Ghoddusi Majid , Daniel Dylan , Pryer Nancy , McCormick Frank , Stuart Darrin
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Treatment with RAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib causes the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCC) or keratoacanthomas as a side effect in 18% to 30% of patients. It is known that RAF inhibitors activate the mitogen—activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and stimulate growth of RAS-mutated cells, possibly accounting for up to 60% of cSCC or keratoacanthoma lesions with RAS mutations, but other contributing events are obscure. To identify such events, we evaluated tumors from patients treated with vemurafenib for the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA and identified 13% to be positive. Using a transgenic murine model of HPV-driven cSCC (K14-HPV16 mice), we conducted a functional test to determine whether administration of RAF inhibitors could promote cSCC in HPV-infected tissues. Vemurafenib treatment elevated MAPK markers and increased cSCC incidence from 22% to 70% in this model. Furthermore, 55% of the cSCCs arising in vemurafenib-treated mice exhibited a wild-type Ras genotype, consistent with the frequency observed in human patients. Our results argue that HPV cooperates with vemurafenib to promote tumorigenesis, in either the presence or absence of RAS mutations. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2238–45. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Sequential Application of a Cytotoxic Nanoparticle and a PI3K Inhibitor Enhances Antitumor Efficacy
Authors: Pandey Ambarish , Kulkarni Ashish , Roy Bhaskar , Goldman Aaron , Sarangi Sasmit , Sengupta Poulomi , Phipps Colin , Kopparam Jawahar , Oh Michael , Basu Sudipta , Kohandel Mohammad , Sengupta Shiladitya
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Nanomedicines that preferentially deploy cytotoxic agents to tumors and molecular targeted therapeutics that inhibit specific aberrant oncogenic drivers are emerging as the new paradigm for the management of cancer. While combination therapies are a mainstay of cancer chemotherapy, few studies have addressed the combination of nanomedicines and molecular targeted therapeutics. Furthermore, limited knowledge exists on the impact of sequencing of such therapeutics and nanomedicines on the antitumor outcome. Here, we engineered a supramolecular cis-platinum nanoparticle, which induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells but also elicited prosurvival signaling via an EGF receptor/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. A combination of mathematical modeling and in vitro and in vivo validation using a pharmacologic inhibitor of PI3K, PI828, demonstrate that administration of PI828 following treatment with the supramolecular cis-platinum nanoparticle results in enhanced antitumor efficacy in breast cancer as compared with when the sequence is reversed or when the two treatments are administered simultaneously. This study addresses, for the first time, the impact of drug sequencing in the case of a combination of a nanomedicine and a targeted therapeutic. Furthermore, our results indicate that a rational combination of cis-platinum nanoparticles and a PI3K-targeted therapeutic can emerge as a potential therapy for breast cancer. Cancer Res; 74(3); 675–85. ©2013 AACR.
Data from HO-3867, a Safe STAT3 Inhibitor, Is Selectively Cytotoxic to Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Rath Kellie S. , Naidu Shan K. , Lata Pushpa , Bid Hemant K. , Rivera Brian K. , McCann Georgia A. , Tierney Brent J. , ElNaggar Adam C. , Bravo Veronica , Leone Gustavo , Houghton Peter , Hideg Kálmán , Kuppusamy Periannan , Cohn David E. , Selvendiran Karuppaiyah
Published: March 2023

Abstract
STAT3 is well corroborated preclinically as a cancer therapeutic target, but tractable translational strategies for its blockade by small molecule inhibitors have remained elusive. In this study, we report the development of a novel class of bifunctional STAT3 inhibitors, based on conjugation of a diarylidenyl-piperidone (DAP) backbone to an N-hydroxypyrroline (–NOH) group, which exhibits minimal toxicity against normal cells and good oral bioavailability. Molecular modeling studies of this class suggested direct interaction with the STAT3 DNA binding domain. In particular, the DAP compound HO-3867 selectively inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation, transcription, and DNA binding without affecting the expression of other active STATs. HO-3867 exhibited minimal toxicity toward noncancerous cells and tissues but induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Pharmacologic analysis revealed greater bioabsorption and bioavailability of the active (cytotoxic) metabolites in cancer cells compared with normal cells. The selective cytotoxicity of HO-3867 seemed to be multifaceted, eliciting differential activation of the Akt pathway in normal versus cancer cells. RNAi attenuation experiments confirmed the requirement of STAT3 for HO-3867–mediated apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. In vivo testing showed that HO-3867 could block xenograft tumor growth without toxic side effects. Furthermore, in primary human ovarian cancer cells isolated from patient ascites, HO-3867 inhibited cell migration/invasion and survival. Our results offer preclinical proof-of-concept for HO-3867 as a selective STAT3 inhibitor to treat ovarian cancer and other solid tumors where STAT3 is widely upregulated. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2316–27. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Metastatic Growth Progression Caused by PSGL-1–Mediated Recruitment of Monocytes to Metastatic Sites
Authors: Hoos Alexandra , Protsyuk Darya , Borsig Lubor
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Tumor cell–derived selectin ligands mediate contact to the endothelium, platelets, and leukocytes through binding to selectins that facilitates metastasis. Here, we describe the mechanism of how endogenous (non–tumor derived) selectin ligands contribute to metastasis using α(1,3)fucosyltransferase 7 (Fuc-TVII−/−)–deficient mice. Experimental metastasis of MC-38GFP and Lewis lung (3LL) carcinoma cells was attenuated in Fuc-TVII−/− mice, which express minimal amount of selectin ligands. We show that metastasis is dependent on selectin ligands carried on hematopoietic cells. P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) was identified as the major ligand facilitating monocyte accumulation at metastatic sites. Reduced recruitment of monocytes to metastasizing tumor cells in Fuc-TVII−/− mice correlated with attenuated metastasis. Adoptive transfer of Fuc-T7+ monocytes rescued metastasis in Fuc-TVII−/− mice, indicating that selectin ligand–dependent recruitment of monocytes is required for cancer progression. Cytokine analysis in metastatic lungs revealed high expression of CCL2 in C57BL/6 mice that was significantly lower in Fuc-TVII−/− mice. The absence of monocyte recruitment in Fuc-TVII−/− mice correlated with increased apoptosis of tumor cells. Thus, the recruitment of monocytes to metastasizing tumor cells is facilitated by endogenous selectin ligands on monocytes that enable efficient tumor cell survival, extravasation, and metastasis. Cancer Res; 74(3); 695–704. ©2013 AACR.
Data from VEGF-Targeted Therapy Stably Modulates the Glycolytic Phenotype of Tumor Cells
Authors: Curtarello Matteo , Zulato Elisabetta , Nardo Giorgia , Valtorta Silvia , Guzzo Giulia , Rossi Elisabetta , Esposito Giovanni , Msaki Aichi , Pastò Anna , Rasola Andrea , Persano Luca , Ciccarese Francesco , Bertorelle Roberta , Todde Sergio , Plebani Mario , Schroer Henrike , Walenta Stefan , Mueller-Klieser Wolfgang , Amadori Alberto , Moresco Rosa Maria , Indraccolo Stefano
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Anti-VEGF therapy perturbs tumor metabolism, severely impairing oxygen, glucose, and ATP levels. In this study, we investigated the effects of anti-VEGF therapy in multiple experimental tumor models that differ in their glycolytic phenotypes to gain insights into optimal modulation of the metabolic features of this therapy. Prolonged treatments induced vascular regression and necrosis in tumor xenograft models, with highly glycolytic tumors becoming treatment resistant more rapidly than poorly glycolytic tumors. By PET imaging, prolonged treatments yielded an increase in both hypoxic and proliferative regions of tumors. A selection for highly glycolytic cells was noted and this metabolic shift was stable and associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and resistance to VEGF blockade in serially transplanted mice. Our results support the hypothesis that the highly glycolytic phenotype of tumor cells studied in xenograft models, either primary or secondary, is a cell-autonomous trait conferring resistance to VEGF blockade. The finding that metabolic traits of tumors can be selected by antiangiogenic therapy suggests insights into the evolutionary dynamics of tumor metabolism. Cancer Res; 75(1); 120–33. ©2014 AACR.