Light antiproton one-electron quasi-molecular ions within the relativistic A-DKB method

In the present work, two quasi-molecular compounds each involving one antiproton and one electron (p̄), He+-p̄ and H-p̄, are investigated. Using completely relativistic calculations within the finite-basis method adapted to systems with axial symmetry, the adiabatic potential curves are constructed by numerically solving the two-center Dirac equation. The binding energies of electron are obtained as a function of the inter-nuclear distance and compared with the corresponding nonrelativistic values and relativistic leading-order corrections calculated in the framework of other approaches. A semantic analysis of antiproton quasi-molecular ions with compounds containing a proton (p) instead of an antiproton is given. The advantages of the A-DKB method are demonstrated.

Peri-CAR-T practice patterns and survival predictors for all CAR-T patients and post-CAR-T failure in aggressive B-NHL

Most patients receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) for aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) do not experience a durable remission. Several novel agents are approved to treat relapsed, refractory aggressive B-NHL; however, it remains unclear how to sequence these therapies pre- and post-CAR-T. We conducted a multicenter retrospective analysis to describe peri-CAR-T practice patterns and survival predictors for patients receiving CD19-directed CAR-T. Patients (n = 514) from 13 centers treated with CAR-T for B-NHL between 2015-2021 were included in the study. Survival curves were constructed using Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to determine the impact of the variables on survival outcomes. For all patients receiving CAR-T, a greater number of lines of therapy pre-CAR-T apheresis and bridging therapy were predictive of inferior progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The median PFS and OS from the time of CAR-T cell infusion were 7.6 and 25.6 months, respectively. From the time of progression post-CAR-T, the median OS was 5.5 months. The median PFS of treatments administered in the first-line post-CAR-T failure was 2.8 months. Patients with refractory disease on day 30 had inferior OS and were less likely to receive subsequent treatment(s) than other patients with CAR-T failure. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for selected patients at any time following CAR-T failure led to durable responses in over half of patients at 1 year. These data provide a benchmark for future clinical trials in patients with post-CAR-T cell progression, which remains an unmet clinical need.

SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions: New Targetable Pathways in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Regulatory approvals of Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors and BCL2 inhibitors have transformed the therapeutic paradigm in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, despite significant improvement, treatment discontinuations due to an acquired resistance mutation or intolerance to these agents are common. Those who are refractory and/or intolerant to both these classes of drugs - the "double exposed/refractory" patients - pose a real challenge in clinical practice and are in dire need of novel therapeutic approaches. In this manuscript, we review the ongoing efforts addressing this unmet clinical need including the ongoing development of non-covalent BTK inhibitors, BTK degraders, novel BH3-mimetics, therapeutic antibodies targeting novel antigens and immune cell enabling therapies.

MGA deletion leads to Richter's transformation via modulation of mitochondrial OXPHOS

Richter's transformation (RT) is a progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) to aggressive lymphoma. MGA ( Max gene associated ), a functional MYC suppressor, is mutated at 3% in CLL and 36% in RT. However, genetic models and molecular mechanisms of MGA deletion driving CLL to RT remain elusive. We established a novel RT mouse model by knockout of Mga in the Sf3b1 / Mdr CLL model via CRISPR-Cas9 to determine the role of Mga in RT. Murine RT cells exhibit mitochondrial aberrations with elevated oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). We identified Nme1 (Nucleoside diphosphate kinase) as a Mga target through RNA sequencing and functional characterization, which drives RT by modulating OXPHOS. As NME1 is also a known MYC target without targetable compounds, we found that concurrent inhibition of MYC and ETC complex II significantly prolongs the survival of RT mice in vivo . Our results suggest that Mga-Nme1 axis drives murine CLL-to-RT transition via modulating OXPHOS, highlighting a novel therapeutic avenue for RT.

Statement of Significance

We established a murine RT model through knockout of Mga in an existing CLL model based on co-expression of Sf3b1 -K700E and del ( 13q ). We determined that the MGA/NME1 regulatory axis is essential to the CLL-to-RT transition via modulation of mitochondrial OXPHOS, highlighting this pathway as a novel target for RT treatment.

Abstract A06: Strategies to circumvent resistance to cyclin-dependent kinase-9 inhibition (CDK9i) in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

Introduction Oncogenic programs are facilitated by activators of transcriptional machinery, including certain CDKs. CDK9, a component of the positive transcription elongation factor b (pTEFb) complex, has arisen as an attractive target due to its regulation of MYC and MCL1 transcription (Hashiguchi et al, 2019). Nevertheless, we and others have observed resistance to CDK9i in vitro and in vivo. Here we studied the effects of CDK9 inhibition using the novel selective CDK9 inhibitor AZD4573, currently under evaluation in clinical trials. Methods A panel of NHL cell lines (OCI-LY3/19, SUDHL4/10/16, VAL, U2932) and primary NHL cells were employed. Response to CDK9i was characterized using LC-MS proteomic analysis, RNA-Seq, and CRISPR-Cas9 Screening. Results NHL cells treated with AZD4573 for 6h exhibited a dose dependent reduction in phospho-RNAPIISer2, as well as loss of MYC and Mcl-1. CDK9i potently inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in a panel of NHL cell lines (IC50 range 5-30 nM). Two DLBCL cell lines underwent LC-MS proteomic analysis following AZD4573 treatment (30 nM, 3h). Treated cells exhibited rapid loss of MYC, Mcl-1, PIM3 and JUNB protein levels. We observed broad transcriptional repression via RNA-seq, including downregulation of PIM3 and JUNB (30 nM, 3h). However, a subset of genes, including MYC, PIM1 and JUNB underwent early transcriptional recovery, confirmed by immunoblotting, thus identifying candidate genes which may account for resistance to CDK9i. PIM kinases cooperate with the PI3K/ATK signaling pathway, and have been proposed as therapeutic targets in cancer. We next used SGI1776 (PIM1 specific) and AZD1208 (pan-PIM) in combination with AZD4573, and found synergy between them in a panel of 4 cell lines and primary samples. OCI-LY3 xenograft mice treated with a combination of AZD4573 (15 mg/kg; IP; once weekly) and AZD1208 (30 mg/kg; oral gavage, twice weekly) demonstrated restricted tumor growth and increased survival compared to control. To further understand pathways mediating resistance to CDK9i, we carried out a genome-wide loss of function CRISPR-Cas9 library screen. Two Cas9-expressing NHL cell lines were transduced with a CRISPR library comprised of ~5 unique sgRNA per gene. Loss of AKT, RPTOR, or mTOR, among others, sensitized cells to AZD4573. Concurrent treatment with PI3K inhibitors synergistically suppressed proliferation of NHL cell lines and primary cells treated with AZD4573 in vitro. OCI-LY3 xenograft mice were treated with AZD4573 (15 mg/kg; IP; once weekly), Copanlisib (15 mg/kg; IP; twice weekly), or a combination of both. Combo treatment restricted tumor growth and prolonged survival to a greater extent than either drug alone. Conclusions CDK9i with AZD4573 downregulated numerous oncoproteins. However, a subset of genes including MYC and PIM3 recovered transcription. PI3K/AKT pathway was implicated in resistance to CDK9i in CRISPR library screens. Concurrent targeting of pro-survival pathways (e.g., PIM, PI3K) partially reversed resistance to CDK9i.

Citation Format: Elana Thieme, Duanchen Sun, Nur Bruss, Geeta Sharma, Tingting Liu, Daniel Coleman, Tamilla Nechiporuk, Daniel Bottomly, Shannon McWeeney, Patrick Pirrotte, Zheng Xia, Alexey Danilov. Strategies to circumvent resistance to cyclin-dependent kinase-9 inhibition (CDK9i) in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Third AACR International Meeting: Advances in Malignant Lymphoma: Maximizing the Basic-Translational Interface for Clinical Application; 2022 Jun 23-26; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Blood Cancer Discov 2022;3(5_Suppl):Abstract nr A06.

Abstract A22: Cost effectiveness of second line Axicabtagene ciloleucel in relapsed refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Background In patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (RR-DLBCL), CAR T has been shown to be effective in patients with at least 2 prior lines of therapy. ZUMA-7 study demonstrated that axi-cel improved event free survival (EFS) compared to standard of care (SOC) salvage chemoimmunotherapy in primary refractory/early relapse DLBCL leading to its recent FDA approval in this setting. We evaluated the cost effectiveness of second line axi-cel. Methods We modeled a hypothetical cohort of US adults (mean age, 65 years) with primary refractory/early relapse DLBCL by developing a Markov model (20-year horizon) to model the cost-effectiveness of axi-cel in the second-line setting compared to SOC using a range of plausible long-term outcomes. EFS and OS were estimated from ZUMA-7. Outcome measures were reported in incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, with a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $150,000/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). Results Assuming a 5-year EFS of 35% with second line axi-cel and 10% with SOC, axi-cel was cost-effective at a WTP of 100,000 and 150,000 ($93,547/QALY). Axi-cel was no longer cost effective if its 5-year EFS was 26.4% or lower. One-way sensitivity analysis demonstrated that second-line CAR T is cost effective up to a cost of $972,061 at a WTP of $150,000. Second-line axi-cel was the cost-effective strategy in 73% of the 10,000 Monte-Carlo iterations at a WTP of $150,000. Conclusions If the absolute benefit in EFS is maintained over time, second line axi-cel for aggressive RR-DLBCL is cost effective when compared to SOC at WTPs of $100,000 and $150,000/QALY. However, its cost effectiveness is highly dependent on long-term outcomes. Routine usage of second-line CAR T would add significantly to healthcare expenditures even when used in a high-risk subpopulation. Further reductions in cost of CAR T are needed.

Citation Format: Swetha Kambhampati, Monica Saumoy, Yecheskel Schneider, Lihua E. Budde, Alexey Danilov, Matthew Mei, Leslie Popplewell, Tanya Siddiqi, Jasmine Zain, Stephen Forman, Larry Kwak, Steven Rosen, Alex Herrera, Nikhil Thiruvengadam. Cost effectiveness of second line Axicabtagene ciloleucel in relapsed refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Third AACR International Meeting: Advances in Malignant Lymphoma: Maximizing the Basic-Translational Interface for Clinical Application; 2022 Jun 23-26; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Blood Cancer Discov 2022;3(5_Suppl):Abstract nr A22.

Integrative analysis of drug response and clinical outcome in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of myeloid-lineage cells with limited therapeutic options. We previously combined ex vivo drug sensitivity with genomic, transcriptomic, and clinical annotations for a large cohort of AML patients, which facilitated discovery of functional genomic correlates. Here, we present a dataset that has been harmonized with our initial report to yield a cumulative cohort of 805 patients (942 specimens). We show strong cross-cohort concordance and identify features of drug response. Further, deconvoluting transcriptomic data shows that drug sensitivity is governed broadly by AML cell differentiation state, sometimes conditionally affecting other correlates of response. Finally, modeling of clinical outcome reveals a single gene, PEAR1, to be among the strongest predictors of patient survival, especially for young patients. Collectively, this report expands a large functional genomic resource, offers avenues for mechanistic exploration and drug development, and reveals tools for predicting outcome in AML.

Genomic and transcriptomic profiling reveals distinct molecular subsets associated with outcomes in mantle cell lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous malignancy in which the genetic alterations determining clinical indications are not fully understood. Here, we performed a comprehensive whole-exome sequencing analysis of 152 primary samples derived from 134 MCL patients, including longitudinal samples from 16 patients and matched RNA-Seq data from 48 samples. We classified MCL into 4 robust clusters (C1-C4). C1 featured mutated immunoglobulin heavy variable (IGHV), CCND1 mutation, amp(11q13), and active B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. C2 was enriched with del(11q)/ATM mutations and upregulation of NF-κB and DNA repair pathways. C3 was characterized by mutations in SP140, NOTCH1, and NSD2, with downregulation of BCR signaling and MYC targets. C4 harbored del(17p)/TP53 mutations, del(13q), and del(9p), and active MYC pathway and hyperproliferation signatures. Patients in these 4 clusters had distinct outcomes (5-year overall survival [OS] rates for C1-C4 were 100%, 56.7%, 48.7%, and 14.2%, respectively). We also inferred the temporal order of genetic events and studied clonal evolution of 16 patients before treatment and at progression/relapse. Eleven of these samples showed drastic clonal evolution that was associated with inferior survival, while the other samples showed modest or no evolution. Our study thus identifies genetic subsets that clinically define this malignancy and delineates clonal evolution patterns and their impact on clinical outcomes.

Abstract 938: Pharmacologic targeting Mcl-1 with AZD5991 induces apoptosis, suppresses mitochondrial respiration and overcomes ibrutinib resistance in non-Hodgkin lymphoma cells

Bcl-2 family proteins determine cell fate and comprise pro-apoptotic “initiators” (Noxa, Bim, Puma), anti-apoptotic “guardians” (Bcl-2, Mcl-1, Bcl-xL) and pro-apoptotic effectors (Bax/Bak). Venetoclax, a Bcl-2 inhibitor, received regulatory approval in the therapy of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia. However, venetoclax is modestly effective in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Mcl-1 is a short-lived pro-survival protein that is frequently overexpressed in NHL, leading to increased cell survival and drug resistance. Mcl-1 transgenic mice develop aggressive lymphoma. Thus, selective targeting Mcl-1 represents a promising pharmacologic strategy in NHL. AZD5991 is a selective small-molecule inhibitor with high potency against Mcl-1 which has entered clinical trials. Here we explored its pre-clinical activity in NHL. We detected Mcl-1 expression in ten diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) as well as in parental/ibrutinib-resistant JeKo-1 and Mino mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) cell lines. AZD5991 suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis in DLBCL cells in a dose-dependent manner, as well as in parental/ibrutinib-resistant MCL cells. Mcl-1 inhibition led to mitochondrial dysfunction, including mitochondrial membrane depolarization, decreased mitochondrial mass, increased mitophagy, and increased levels of reactive oxygen species in both DLBCL and parental/ibrutinib-resistant MCL cells. Mcl-1 inhibition downmodulated basal and maximal respiratory capacity in sensitive, but not in resistant cells, as determined by the Seahorse assay, further indicating mitochondria compromise as a mechanism of susceptibility to Mcl-1 inhibition. An inhibitors screening assay identifies that AZD5991 demonstrated synergy with other BH3-mimetics. Co-treatment of DLBCL cells with Bcl-2/xL inhibitors AZD4320, venetoclax and navitoclax overcame resistance to AZD5991. Finally, Primary MCL cells were co-cultured with control, CD40L- or BAFF-expressing stroma which partially mimics the lymph node microenvironment and induces resistance to spontaneous and drug-induced apoptosis. Mcl-1 inhibition induced apoptosis of primary MCL cells in both control and BAFF-expressing conditions, accompanied by decreased mitochondrial respiration. Meanwhile, CD40L stroma rendered protection from AZD5991 which was partially overcome by co-treatment with venetoclax. In summary, Mcl-1 inhibition using selective BH3-mimetic AZD5991 restricts cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in a subset of DLBCL, parental/ibrutinib-resistant MCL cells and primary neoplastic B cells. Mcl-1 inhibition leads to mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibition of cellular respiration. Resistance to Mcl-1 inhibition may be overcome by concurrent targeting of alternative anti-apoptotic proteins (Bcl-2/xL) in NHL.

Citation Format: Tingting Liu, Vi Lam, Elana Thieme, Xiaoguang Wang, Fei Xu, Steve Kurtz, Jeff Tyner, Olga V. Danilova, Alexey Danilov. Pharmacologic targeting Mcl-1 with AZD5991 induces apoptosis, suppresses mitochondrial respiration and overcomes ibrutinib resistance in non-Hodgkin lymphoma cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 938.

Outcomes of Burkitt lymphoma with central nervous system involvement: evidence from a large multicenter cohort study

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in Burkitt lymphoma poses a major therapeutic challenge, and the relative ability of contemporary regimens to treat CNS involvement remains uncertain. We describe the prognostic significance of CNS involvement and the incidence of CNS recurrence/progression after contemporary immunochemotherapy using real-world clinicopathological data from adults with Burkitt lymphoma diagnosed between 2009 and 2018 in 30 institutions in the USA. We examined associations between baseline CNS involvement, patients’ characteristics, complete response rates, and survival. We also examined risk factors for CNS recurrence. Of 641 patients (aged 18 to 88 years), 120 (19%) had CNS involvement. CNS involvement was independently associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection, poor performance status, involvement of ≥2 extranodal sites, and bone marrow involvement. Selection of the first-line treatment regimen was unaffected by CNS involvement (P=0.93). Patients with CNS disease had significantly lower rates of complete response (59% vs. 77% for patients with and without CNS involvement, respectively; P<0.001), worse 3-year progression-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]=1.53, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.14-2.06; P=0.004) and overall survival (aHR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.18-2.22; P=0.003). The 3-year cumulative incidence of CNS recurrence was 6% (95% CI: 4-8%) and was significantly lower among patients receiving other regimens (CODOX-M/IVAC, 4%, or hyperCVAD/MA, 3%) compared with DA-EPOCH-R (13%; adjusted sub-distribution HR=4.38, 95% CI:, 2.16-8.87; P<0.001). Baseline CNS involvement in Burkitt lymphoma is relatively common and portends inferior prognosis independently of the first-line treatment regimen selected. In real-world practice, regimens including intravenous systemic agents with pronounced CNS penetrance were associated with a lower risk of CNS recurrence. This finding may be influenced by observed suboptimal adherence to the strict CNS staging and intrathecal therapy procedures incorporated in the DA-EPOCH-R regimen.

Burkitt Lymphoma International Prognostic Index

PURPOSE

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) has unique biology and clinical course but lacks a standardized prognostic model. We developed and validated a novel prognostic index specific for BL to aid risk stratification, interpretation of clinical trials, and targeted development of novel treatment approaches.

METHODS

We derived the BL International Prognostic Index (BL-IPI) from a real-world data set of adult patients with BL treated with immunochemotherapy in the United States between 2009 and 2018, identifying candidate variables that showed the strongest prognostic association with progression-free survival (PFS). The index was validated in an external data set of patients treated in Europe, Canada, and Australia between 2004 and 2019.

RESULTS

In the derivation cohort of 633 patients with BL, age ≥ 40 years, performance status ≥ 2, serum lactate dehydrogenase > 3× upper limit of normal, and CNS involvement were selected as equally weighted factors with an independent prognostic value. The resulting BL-IPI identified groups with low (zero risk factors, 18% of patients), intermediate (one factor, 36% of patients), and high risk (≥ 2 factors, 46% of patients) with 3-year PFS estimates of 92%, 72%, and 53%, respectively, and 3-year overall survival estimates of 96%, 76%, and 59%, respectively. The index discriminated outcomes regardless of HIV status, stage, or first-line chemotherapy regimen. Patient characteristics, relative size of the BL-IPI groupings, and outcome discrimination were consistent in the validation cohort of 457 patients, with 3-year PFS estimates of 96%, 82%, and 63% for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk BL-IPI, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The BL-IPI provides robust discrimination of survival in adult BL, suitable for use as prognostication and stratification in trials. The high-risk group has suboptimal outcomes with standard therapy and should be considered for innovative treatment approaches.

Burkitt lymphoma in the modern era: real-world outcomes and prognostication across 30 US cancer centers

We examined adults with untreated Burkitt lymphoma (BL) from 2009 to 2018 across 30 US cancer centers. Factors associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated in univariate and multivariate Cox models. Among 641 BL patients, baseline features included the following: median age, 47 years; HIV+, 22%; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) 2 to 4, 23%; >1 extranodal site, 43%; advanced stage, 78%; and central nervous system (CNS) involvement, 19%. Treatment-related mortality was 10%, with most common causes being sepsis, gastrointestinal bleed/perforation, and respiratory failure. With 45-month median follow-up, 3-year PFS and OS rates were 64% and 70%, respectively, without differences by HIV status. Survival was better for patients who received rituximab vs not (3-year PFS, 67% vs 38%; OS, 72% vs 44%; P < .001) and without difference based on setting of administration (ie, inpatient vs outpatient). Outcomes were also improved at an academic vs community cancer center (3-year PFS, 67% vs 46%, P = .006; OS, 72% vs 53%, P = .01). In multivariate models, age ≥ 40 years (PFS, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.70, P = .001; OS, HR = 2.09, P < .001), ECOG PS 2 to 4 (PFS, HR = 1.60, P < .001; OS, HR = 1.74, P = .003), lactate dehydrogenase > 3× normal (PFS, HR = 1.83, P < .001; OS, HR = 1.63, P = .009), and CNS involvement (PFS, HR = 1.52, P = .017; OS, HR = 1.67, P = .014) predicted inferior survival. Furthermore, survival varied based on number of factors present (0, 1, 2 to 4 factors) yielding 3-year PFS rates of 91%, 73%, and 50%, respectively; and 3-year OS rates of 95%, 77%, and 56%, respectively. Collectively, outcomes for adult BL in this real-world analysis appeared more modest compared with results of clinical trials and smaller series. In addition, clinical prognostic factors at diagnosis identified patients with divergent survival rates.

Hodgkin lymphoma arising in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: outcomes from a large multi-center collaboration

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients who develop Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) have limited survival. No current therapeutic standard of care exists. We conducted a multi-center retrospective study of patients with Hodgkin transformation (HT) of CLL. Clinicobiologic characteristics, treatment type, and survival outcomes were analyzed and compared with historic case series. Ninety-four patients were identified. Median age at HT was 67 years (range, 38-85). Median time from CLL diagnosis to HT was 5.5 years (range, 0-20.2). Prior to HT, patients received a median of two therapies for CLL (range, 0-12). As initial therapy for HT, 61% (n=62) received ABVD-based regimens (adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine). Seven (7%) patients received hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) while in first complete remission (CR1). The median number of treatments for HT per patient was one (range, 0-5) with 59 (61%) patients only receiving one line of therapy. After HT, patients had a median follow-up of 1.6 years (range, 0-15.1). Two-year overall survival (OS) after HT diagnosis was 72% (95% Confidence Interval: 62-83). The patients who received standard ABVD-based therapy had a median OS of 13.2 years. Although limited by small sample size, the patients who underwent HCT for HT in CR1 had a similar 2-year OS (n=7; 67%) compared to patients who did not undergo HCT for HT in CR1 (n=87; 72%; P=0.46). In this multi-center study, HT patients treated with ABVD-based regimens had prolonged survival supporting the use of these regimens as standard of care for these patients.

[PRACTICE OF MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH INFECTIOUS ENDOCARDITIS IN CONDITIONS OF LOW FREQUENCY OF ETIOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT PATHOGENS IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION]

The article presents the results of a multicenter study of the etiology, antibiotic sensitivity and pharmacoepidemiology of infective endocarditis in the Russian Federation. The purpose of this study is to analyze the current practice of management of patients with infective endocarditis in conditions of low frequency of etiologically significant pathogens in the Russian Federation. The study included patients of both sexes of all age groups with definite and probable infective endocarditis. 406 cases of infectious endocarditis (240 in retrospect and 166 in the prospective part) were analyzed. Etiologically significant pathogen was isolated in 144 cases (35.5%). The structure of pathogens was dominated by gram (+) cocci (90.3%), most often - Staphylococcus aureus (46.5% of all isolated pathogens). Aminoglycosides (22.8%), parenteral cephalosporins of the III generation (22.1%) and glycopeptides (14.5%) were most frequently used in the course of starting antimicrobial therapy. When changing the mode of antimicrobial therapy, glycopeptides (18.6%), aminoglycosides (15.3%), fluoroquinolones (11.2%) and parenteral cephalosporins of generation III (9.5%) were most often prescribed.

Functional genomic landscape of acute myeloid leukaemia

The implementation of targeted therapies for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) has been challenging because of the complex mutational patterns within and across patients as well as a dearth of pharmacologic agents for most mutational events. Here we report initial findings from the Beat AML programme on a cohort of 672 tumour specimens collected from 562 patients. We assessed these specimens using whole-exome sequencing, RNA sequencing and analyses of ex vivo drug sensitivity. Our data reveal mutational events that have not previously been detected in AML. We show that the response to drugs is associated with mutational status, including instances of drug sensitivity that are specific to combinatorial mutational events. Integration with RNA sequencing also revealed gene expression signatures, which predict a role for specific gene networks in the drug response. Collectively, we have generated a dataset-accessible through the Beat AML data viewer (Vizome)-that can be leveraged to address clinical, genomic, transcriptomic and functional analyses of the biology of AML.

Deferred treatment is a safe and viable option for selected patients with mantle cell lymphoma

Prospective identification of candidates for deferred therapy is not standardized and many patients receive immediate therapy regardless of risk. We conducted a retrospective, multi-center cohort analysis of MCL patients with comprehensive clinical data to examine the use and safety of deferred therapy for newly diagnosed patients. Previously untreated patients ≥18 years-old with MCL diagnosed in 1993-2015 at five academic sites were included. Of 395 patients, 72 (18%) received deferred therapy (defined as receipt of first treatment >90 days following initial diagnosis). Patients receiving deferred therapy were more likely to have an ECOG performance status of 0 (67 versus 44% p = .001), have no B symptoms (83 versus 65% p = .003) and have normal LDH levels at diagnosis (87 versus 55% p < .001). In multivariable analysis, deferred therapy was not associated with a significant difference in OS (HR 0.64: 95% CI 0.22-1.84, p = .407).

Methods of graph network reconstruction in personalized medicine

The paper addresses methods for generation of individualized computational domains on the basis of medical imaging dataset. The computational domains will be used in one-dimensional (1D) and three-dimensional (3D)-1D coupled hemodynamic models. A 1D hemodynamic model employs a 1D network of a patient-specific vascular network with large number of vessels. The 1D network is the graph with nodes in the 3D space which bears additional geometric data such as length and radius of vessels. A 3D hemodynamic model requires a detailed 3D reconstruction of local parts of the vascular network. We propose algorithms which extend the automated segmentation of vascular and tubular structures, generation of centerlines, 1D network reconstruction, correction, and local adaptation. We consider two modes of centerline representation: (i) skeletal segments or sets of connected voxels and (ii) curved paths with corresponding radii. Individualized reconstruction of 1D networks depends on the mode of centerline representation. Efficiency of the proposed algorithms is demonstrated on several examples of 1D network reconstruction. The networks can be used in modeling of blood flows as well as other physiological processes in tubular structures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Predictive factors and clinical biomarkers for treatment in patients with chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis with a central sensitisation component

AIMS

The aim of this non-systematic review was to provide a practical guide for clinicians on the evidence for central sensitisation in chronic osteoarthritis (OA) pain and how this pain mechanism can be addressed in terms of clinical diagnosis, investigation and treatment.

METHODS

The authors undertook a non-systematic review of the literature including a MEDLINE search (search terms included central sensitisation, osteoarthritis, osteoarthrosis) for relevant and current clinical studies, systematic reviews and narrative reviews. Case reports, letters to the editor and similar literature sources were excluded. Information was organised to allow a pragmatic approach to the discussion of the evidence and generation of practical recommendations.

RESULTS

There is good evidence for a role of central sensitisation in chronic OA pain in a subgroup of patients. Clinically, a central sensitisation component in chronic OA pain can be suspected based on characteristic pain features and non-pain features seen in other conditions involving central sensitisation. However, there are currently no diagnostic inventories for central sensitisation specific to OA. Biomarkers may be helpful for confirming the presence of central sensitisation, especially when there is diagnostic uncertainty. Several non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments may be effective in OA patients with central sensitisation features. Multimodal therapy may be required to achieve control of symptoms.

DISCUSSION

Clinicians should be aware of central sensitisation in patients with chronic OA pain, especially in patients presenting with severe pain with unusual features.

Abstract 1782: The ubiquitin protease UBP43 is a target for KRAS mutant lung cancers

KRAS is frequently mutated in human lung cancers. Lung cancers with mutant KRAS are often resistant to current therapies. There is therefore a need to develop new ways to target these tumors with KRAS mutations. We previously found that the protein modification pathway containing the ubiquitin-like interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) destabilizes cyclin D1 and represses growth and tumorigenicity of lung cancer cells. This study substantially extends that prior work by reporting that inhibition of the ubiquitin protease UBP43, which removes ISG15 from protein substrates, also destabilizes KRAS protein levels. In a screen of murine lung cancer cells with KRAS mutations, the lines with highest KRAS protein levels had the highest levels of UBP43 protein, implying a direct link between UBP43 and KRAS. Stable overexpression of UBP43 in murine lung cancer cells increased cancer cell growth and stability of KRAS protein. In contrast, knockdown of UBP43 in murine and human lung cancer cell lines had the opposite effects on growth and KRAS protein stability. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments established an interaction between ISG15 and both wild-type KRAS and mutant KRAS. UBP43 immunohistochemical staining of human lung cancer cases showed a marked increase in UBP43 expression in KRAS mutant versus KRAS wild-type lung cancers. Preliminary findings in newly engineered mouse models revealed an increase in lung cancers in KRAS mutant/UBP43 wild-type as compared to KRAS mutant/UBP43 null mice. This finding provides a genetic basis for targeting UBP43 in lung cancers. Taken together, these studies broaden the role of UBP43 as an antineoplastic target to include an unmet medical need. This is to combat lung cancers that harbor KRAS mutations.

Citation Format: Lisa Maria Mustachio, Fadzai Chinyengetere, Yun Lu, Shanhu Hu, Masanori Kawakami, Laura J. Tafe, Alexey Danilov, David J. Sekula, Tian Ma, Sarah J. Freemantle, Ethan Dmitrovsky. The ubiquitin protease UBP43 is a target for KRAS mutant lung cancers. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1782. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1782

Abstract 223: ΔNp63α, a p53 family member protein, promotes tumor progression in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women. Targeted therapies thus far have failed to demonstrate survival advantage in PDAC and novel therapies are needed. Mutations in Ras and p53 are frequently found in PDAC and promote cancer cell survival, invasiveness and chemoresistance. In contrast, p63, an ancestral member of p53 family, is rarely mutated in cancer. ΔNp63α was shown to be overexpressed in squamous cell tumors of the lung and head and neck and thus has been implicated in carcinogenesis. We tested expression of p63 isoforms in five PDAC cell lines and investigated its role in tumor progression.

Expression of p63 was determined by immunoblotting, real-time quantitative and semi-quantitative PCR in 5 PDAC cell lines. PANC-1 cells, with low levels of p63, were transfected with ΔNp63α cDNA-expressing vector. Conversely, high endogenous p63 levels in T3M4 and BxPC3 cell lines were suppressed by specific shRNA. We studied cell proliferation in a doubling assay, motility in wound assay and invasiveness in Matrigel chambers.

We found that pancreatic cancer cell lines predominantly expressed ΔN isoform of p63, and specifically ΔNp63α variant. ΔNp63α protein and transcript levels were high in T3M4, BxPC3 and Colo-357 cell lines and low in ASPC-1 and PANC-1 cell lines. Interestingly, transcript levels of TAp63, a p63 variant implicated in cellular senescence and suppression of metastases, were near the detection threshold in all cell lines. Overexpression of ΔNp63α in PANC-1 cells resulted in increased proliferation and enhanced migration of those cells but had no effect on invasiveness in serum-free conditions. Incubation of ΔNp63α-expressing PANC-1 cells in presence of epidermal growth factor increased both migration and invasiveness. By contrast, shRNA knockdown of endogenous p63 in BxPC3 cells led to decreased proliferation. Silencing p63 in T3M4 cells resulted in attenuated migration in serum-free conditions and decreased migration and invasiveness in response to epidermal growth factor.

Thus, ΔNp63α is a predominantly expressed isoform of p63 in PDAC cell lines. ΔNp63α plays an important role in PDAC progression and thus its associated pathways may potentially be therapeutically targeted in this disease.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 223. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-223

Fibronectin modulates osteoblast behavior on Nitinol

We have previously demonstrated that primary rat osteoclasts behave differently when cultured on austenite and martensite Nitinol. In this study, we coated the two phases of Nitinol with plasma fibronectin and studied if this modifies the proliferation and cell cycle of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. The influence of the crystalline structure of Nitinol on the remodeling and conformation of fibronectin was also studied. The results on austenite demonstrated that fibronectin was more strongly remodeled and the cells spread better compared with the martensite phase. Interestingly, the conformation of the protein showed no differences between austenite and martensite. In addition, fibronectin improved cell proliferation in both phases, but the effect of fibronectin coating was stronger on the austenite surface. In addition, in both Nitinol phases, the proportion of cells in the G(1) phase was observed to grow in the presence of fibronectin. This could indicate cell differentiation on Nitinol.

The effect of oxide thickness on osteoblast attachment and survival on NiTi alloy

NiTi alloy is used in various medical applications and the surface titanium oxide layer produced naturally or enhanced artificially has been thought to offer a protecting film against allergic and toxic effects of nickel (Ni). In this study, we investigated the effect of different oxide layer thicknesses on the survival and attachment of osteoblastic cells (ROS-17/2.8). AFM, X-ray diffraction and electrical resistance measurements were used to analyze the surface properties of oxidized NiTi samples and the effect of oxidation on material properties. The results clearly showed that straight correlation between oxide thickness and cellular well-being cannot be maid. However, the different thicknesses of oxide layer on NiTi had surprising impacts on cellular responses and also to the properties of the metal alloy.

Cell Technologies in Immunotherapy of Cancer

Tumor growth is accompanied by active immune reactions even on the early stages. Vaccine therapy implies the use of single antigen or combination of antigens, either with or without adjuvants, for the modulation of immune response. N.N. Petrov Institute of Oncology joined the field of antitumor vaccine therapy and related cellular technologies in 1998. The following activities are held: (1) Optimization of the preparation of autologous and allogeneic antitumor vaccines and development of tumor cell culture bank for the experiments on allogeneic vaccination. (2) Clinical evaluation of autologous vaccine therapy by (a) bone marrow precursors of dendritic cells (DCs), which are loaded with tumor lysates; (b) genetically modified tumor cells; (c) intact tumor cells used in combination with various adjuvants (BCG, IL-1beta, and IL-1beta combined with low doses of cyclophosphamide) in patients with disseminated melanoma, metastatic kidney cancer, and colorectal cancer. Total 117 patients have received non-modified vaccine (48 patients: 2-6 intracutaneous BCG injections; 54 patients: 4-6 intracutaneous IL-1beta injections; 15 patients: up to 6 injections of IL-1beta in combination with low doses of cyclophosphamide). Clinical trial of genetically modified vaccine included 59 patients (clinical results: I PR (partial response) / 8 SD (disease stabilization)--melanoma, 2 PR/ 2 MR (minimal response) / 3 SD--renal cancer). Vaccine prepared from tumor cell-activated DC bone marrow precursors was administered to 18 patients (clinical results: 2 MR and 6 SD).

The phase state of NiTi implant material affects osteoclastic attachment

In the present work, the responses of mature osteoclasts cultured on austenite and martensite phases of NiTi shape memory implant material were studied. We used the sensitivity of osteoclasts to the underlying substrate and actin ring formation as an indicator of the adequacy of the implant surface. The results showed osteoclasts with actin ring on both NiTi phases. However, significantly more osteoclasts were present on the austenitic NiTi than on the martensitic NiTi. We also analyzed the surface free energy of the samples but found no significant difference between austenite and martensite phases. The results revealed that osteoclasts tolerated well the austenite phase of NiTi. The chemically identical martensitic NiTi was not as well tolerated by osteoclasts (e.g., indicated by diminished actin ring formation). This leads to the conclusion that certain physical properties specific to the martensitic NiTi have an adverse effect to the surviving of osteoclasts on this NiTi phase. These results confirm that mature, authentic osteoclasts can act as cell probes in experiments concerning aspects of biocompatibility of bone implant materials.

Comparison of the bone modeling effects caused by curved and straight nickel-titanium intramedullary nails

Nitinol (NiTi) shape memory metal alloy makes it possible to prepare functional implants. A curved intramedullary NiTi nail has been shown to cause bending of the bone, bone thickening, increase in cortical area, and reduction in bone longitudinal growth. The purpose of the present study was to find out whether these changes are caused by the bending force of the curved nail or by the intramedullary nailing itself. Pre-shaped intramedullary NiTi nails were implanted in the cooled martensitic form into the medullary cavity of the right femur in 12 rats, where they started to restore their austenitic form, causing a bending force. Straight nails were used as controls in another 12 rats. After 12 weeks, the operated femurs were compared with their non-operated contralateral counterparts and the differences were compared between the groups. Anteroposterior radiographs demonstrated bone bowing only in the curved nail group. Retardation of longitudinal growth was observed in both groups, showing that the growth effect seems to be due to the intramedullary nailing itself. Increase in bone cross-sectional area and cortical thickness were found in both groups. However, this increase was more evident with the curved nail, indicating that the bending force of the functional nail seems to induce these changes.

Behaviour of nitinol in osteoblast-like ROS-17 cell cultures

Nickel titanium shape memory metal alloy Nitinol (NiTi) has been used in dental wares and in gastrointestinal surgery. Nitinol is a promising implant material in orthopedics, but its biocompatibility, especially in long-term implantation is not confirmed yet. We studied Nitinol's effect on a cell culture model. Comparisons to stainless steel, pure titanium and pure nickel were performed. The effects of Nitinol on cell death rate, the apoptosis rate and the formation of local contacts were studied on rat osteosarcoma cell line ROS-17 in 48-h cultures. The cell death rate was assessed with combined calcein-ethidium-homodimer labelling. The amount of dead cells 1000 cells were as follows: four in the NiTi, 21 in the Stst, 4.8 in the Ti and 51 in the Ni group. In the NiTi and Ti groups, the number of dead cells was significantly lower (p < or = 0.01) than in Ni group. The rate of apoptosis was detected with TUNEL-assay. The assay results were: 1.93 apoptotic cells 1000 cells in the NiTi, 1.1 in the Stst, 2.98 in the Ti and 0.62 in the Ni group. A comparison of these two results shows that 48% of the dead cells were apoptotic in the NiTi, 56.6 in the Stst, 62% in the Ti and only 1.8% in the Ni group. The focal contacts were stained with a paxillin antibody and counted. There were marked differences in the number of focal contacts per unit area compared to NiTi (774 focal contacts): 335 in Stst (p < or = 0.01), 462 in Ti (p < or = 0.01) and 261 in Ni (p < or = 0.005). Our results show that NiTi is well tolerated by the osteoblastic type ROS-17 cells.

Effect of nickel-titanium shape memory metal alloy on bone formation

The aim of this study was to determine the biocompatibility of NiTi alloy on bone formation in vivo. For this purpose we used ectopic bone formation assay which goes through all the events of bone formation and calcification. Comparisons were made between Nitinol (NiTi), stainless steel (Stst) and titanium-aluminium (6%)-vanadium (4%) alloy (Ti-6Al-4V), which were implanted for 8 weeks under the fascia of the latissimus dorsi muscle in 3-month-old rats. A light-microscopic examination showed no chronic inflammatory or other pathological findings in the induced ossicle or its capsule. New bone replaced part of the decalcified matrix with mineralized new cartilage and bone. The mineral density was measured with peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). The total bone mineral density (BMD) values were nearly equal between the control and the NiTi samples, the Stst samples and the Ti-6Al-4V samples had lower BMDs. Digital image analysis was used to measure the combined area of new fibrotic tissue and original implanted bone matrix powder around the implants. There were no significant differences between the implanted materials, although Ti-6Al-4V showed the largest matrix powder areas. The same method was used for measurements of proportional cartilage and new bone areas in the ossicles. NiTi showed the largest cartilage area (p < or = 0.05). Between implant groups the new bone area was largest in NiTi. We conclude that NiTi has good biocompatibility, as its effects on ectopic bone formation are similar to those of Stst, and that the ectopic bone formation assay developed here can be used for biocompatibility studies.

Asymmetrical reduction of the nociceptive flexion reflex threshold in cluster headache

The nociceptive flexion reflex (NFR) of the lower limbs (RIII reflex) was examined bilaterally in 54 cluster headache (CH) patients suffering from episodic CH (ECH) and chronic CH (CCH). Fifteen ECH patients were examined in both remission and active phases. The RIII reflex threshold (Tr) and the threshold of pain sensation (Tp) were significantly reduced on the symptomatic side in patients with episodic CH during the bout. During the active phase of episodic CH an inverse correlation was found between the severity of CH (ratio: number of cluster periods/years of illness duration) and the Tp, which may suggest a role for secondary central sensitization in pain pathways. The lower Tr and Tp on the symptomatic side is in keeping with previous observations exploring pain mechanisms using different methods (i.e. corneal reflex, pain pressure threshold). On the whole, these data tie in with the view of an impairment of the pain control system, which parallels the periodicity of the disorder in the episodic form.

Perfect DiViSy technology for video network in medicine (Moscow Information Network for Teleoncology)

A large telemedicine project is now under development in Moscow. The general task of the project is to link oncology research centres and hospitals meeting the project profile, and to provide on-line (using real-time video conferences) and off-line (via distributed database of medical information) information exchange. There was no existing technology available for use at the project's base which was ready to meet all requirements, so we are using specially created technology for video networks (DiViSy V.97). We suppose this technology to be more applicable for use in telemedicine networks than are business video conference technologies and classical Internet/Intranet technologies. We affirm in our conclusion that now is the time for developing special telemedicine standards, recommendations of compatibility, etc., and that we are ready to take part in this process.

The effects of aspirin on the CNV in healthy individuals

The effects of aspirin on the contingent negative variation (CNV) of 16 healthy, right-handed volunteers were studied in accordance with a placebo-controlled double-blind crossover design. Early and late CNV factors were measured. Aspirin caused a statistically significant decrease of the early wave and an increase of mean amplitude of the late wave. A central action of aspirin, affecting noradrenergic and dopaminergic structures, may be responsible for the CNV changes.

Neurophysiological studies in chronic paroxysmal hemicrania and hemicrania continua

To explore the possible involvement of the pain control system, pain pressure threshold (PPT), nociceptive flexion reflex (RIII), blink and corneal reflexes have been studied for pain perception assessment in 12 patients with chronic paroxysmal hemicrania (CPH) and 12 patients with hemicrania continua (HC). PPT was found to be reduced in HC and CPH when separately compared to controls. In addition, a significant reduction of subjective pain perception (Tp) which was most marked on the symptomatic side, has been demonstrated after sural nerve stimulation in CPH. The RIII reflex threshold on the symptomatic side was significantly reduced when patients were compared to controls. No major differences between CPH and HC as regards blink reflex latencies were found; nor was any such difference observed when comparing the two headache groups to controls. The corneal reflex thresholds were found significantly reduced bilaterally in CPH, irrespective of whether the treatment was given or not.

Bilateral sympathetic skin response following nociceptive stimulation: study in healthy individuals

Bilateral sympathetic skin response (SSR) was evaluated in 25 normal subjects aged (29 +/- 5 years). The stimulation (an electrical pulse train randomly applied to the sural nerve) was equal to 0.5-1.0-1.5 times the nociceptive flexion reflex (RIII) thresholds. This method allowed us to quantify the pain threshold, since a close relationship between the RIII threshold and subjective pain threshold has been described. Decrease in latency, increase in amplitude and duration were observed when increasing intensity of stimulation was used. The right-side stimulation produced significantly shorter latencies and higher amplitudes than the left one. The asymmetry index showed a trend of larger responses on the left hand and shorter latencies on the right hand in males. Females displayed less left-right asymmetry than males. A positive correlation was recognized between RIII threshold and amplitude and duration of SSR. Test-retest evaluation in 12 individuals revealed good reproducibility of SSR in terms of latency and duration, while amplitudes showed large variability. The accuracy of SSR response concerning latency and duration was better (range 0.88-0.92) when 1.5 RIII threshold was used, showing that painful stimulation should be used to obtain reliable SSR in clinical practice.

Effects of dothiepin on nociceptive flexion reflex and diffuse noxious inhibitory controls in humans

The analgesic activity of dothiepin (an antidepressant interacting with serotonin receptors) was studied (double-blind) in humans. A significant increase in nociceptive flexion reflex threshold and subjective pain threshold was observed after a 14-day dothiepin treatment. The effects of dothiepin on diffuse noxious inhibitory controls were also investigated using the cold-pressor test as conditioning stimuli. After dothiepin a reduced inhibition of nociceptive flexion reflex during the cold-pressor test and a significant facilitation immediately after the cold-pressor test were observed, while the subjective pain perception was normally inhibited. Our data suggest a serotonergic modulation of diffuse noxious inhibitory controls in humans.