Mentoring Minority Cancer Researchers of Tomorrow: Comparison of the Face-to-Face, Virtual, and Hybrid Training Methods of the CaRE2 Summer Cancer Research Education and Training Program

In our previous publication, we reported a framework to develop an undergraduate cancer research training program at Florida A&M University (FAMU) under the umbrella of the Florida-California Cancer Research, Education, and Engagement (CaRE2) Health Equity Center activity by harnessing the resources available at FAMU, the University of Florida (UF), and the University of Southern California (USC) Cancer Centers. The implementation of the CaRE2 face-to-face training platform was dramatically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic during the summer of 2020 and 2021 training periods. However, a concerted effort was made to restructure the face-to-face training model into virtual and hybrid training methods to maintain the continuity of the program during the pandemic. This article compared the three methods to identify the best platform for training URM students in cancer disparity research. The program's effectiveness was measured through motivation, experiences, and knowledge gained by trainees during and one year after the completion of the program. The results showed that the participants were highly positive in their feedback about the professional and academic values of the program. Although the virtual and hybrid methods experienced significant challenges during the pandemic, the hybrid training module offered an "above average" effectiveness in performance, like the face-to-face mentoring platform in mentoring URM students in cancer disparity research.

Thymoquinone Inhibition of Chemokines in TNF-α-Induced Inflammatory and Metastatic Effects in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells

The lack of identifiable molecular targets or biomarkers hinders the development of treatment options in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, natural products offer a promising alternative by targeting inflammatory chemokines in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Chemokines are crucial in promoting breast cancer growth and metastasis and correlate to the altered inflammatory process. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antimetastatic effects of the natural product thymoquinone (TQ) on TNF-α-stimulated TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468) to study the cytotoxic, antiproliferative, anticolony, antimigratory, and antichemokine effects using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions, and Western blots were used in sequence to validate the microarray results further. Four downregulated inflammatory cytokines were identified, CCL2 and CCL20 in MDA-MB-468 cells and CCL3 and CCL4 in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, when TNF-α-stimulated MDA-MB-231 cells were compared with MDA-MB-468 cells, the two cells were sensitive to TQ's antichemokine and antimetastatic effect in preventing cell migration. It was concluded from this investigation that genetically different cell lines may respond to TQ differently, as TQ targets CCL3 and CCL4 in MDA-MB-231 cells and CCL2 and CCL20 in MDA-MB-468 cells. Therefore, the results indicate that TQ may be recommended as a component of the therapeutic strategy for TNBC treatment. These outcomes stem from the compound's capacity to suppress the chemokine. Even though these findings support the usage of TQ as part of a therapy strategy for TNBC associated with the identified chemokine dysregulations, additional in vivo studies are needed to confirm these in vitro results.

Design and Synthesis of New Acyl Urea Analogs as Potential σ1R Ligands

In search of synthetically accessible open-ring analogs of PD144418 or 5-(1-propyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridin-3-yl)-3-(p-tolyl)isoxazole, a highly potent sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) ligand, we herein report the design and synthesis of sixteen arylated acyl urea derivatives. Design aspects included modeling the target compounds for drug-likeness, docking at σ1R crystal structure 5HK1, and contrasting the lower energy molecular conformers with that of the receptor-embedded PD144418-a molecule we opined that our compounds could mimic pharmacologically. Synthesis of our acyl urea target compounds was achieved in two facile steps which involved first generating the N-(phenoxycarbonyl) benzamide intermediate and then coupling it with the appropriate amines weakly to strongly nucleophilic amines. Two potential leads (compounds 10 and 12, with respective in vitro σ1R binding affinities of 2.18 and 9.54 μM) emerged from this series. These leads will undergo further structure optimization with the ultimate goal of developing novel σ1R ligands for testing in neurodegeneration models of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Florida-California Cancer Research, Education and Engagement (CaRE2) Health Equity Center: Structure, Innovations, and Initial Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

The Florida-California Cancer Research, Education, and Engagement (CaRE2) Health Equity Center is a triad partnership committed to increasing institutional capacity for cancer disparity research, the diversity of the cancer workforce, and community empowerment. This article provides an overview of the structure, process innovations, and initial outcomes from the first 4 years of the CaRE2 triad partnership.

METHODS

CaRE2 serves diverse populations in Florida and California using a "molecule to the community and back" model. We prioritize research on the complex intersection of biological, environmental, and social determinants health, working together with scientific and health disparities communities, sharing expertise across institutions, bidirectional training, and community outreach. Partnership progress and outcomes were assessed using mixed methods and four Program Steering Committee meetings.

RESULTS

Research capacity was increased through development of a Living Repository of 81 cancer model systems from minority patients for novel cancer drug development. CaRE2 funded 15 scientific projects resulting in 38 publications. Workforce diversity entailed supporting 94 cancer trainees (92 URM) and 34 ESIs (32 URM) who coauthored 313 CaRE2-related publications and received 48 grants. Community empowerment was promoted via outreaching to more than 3000 individuals, training 145 community cancer advocates (including 28 Community Scientist Advocates), and publishing 10 community reports. CaRE2 members and trainees together have published 639 articles, received 61 grants, and 57 awards.

CONCLUSION

The CaRE2 partnership has achieved its initial aims. Infrastructure for translational cancer research was expanded at one partner institution, and cancer disparities research was expanded at the two cancer centers.

Improving Representation of Underrepresented Minority (URM) Students in Oncology Biomedical Research Workforce: Outcome Evaluation from the ReTOOL Program

The Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL) program was implemented in 2012 to increase the representation of racial and ethnic minorities in the biomedical workforce. Specifically, the ReTOOL program aims to foster the capacity for scientific research among underserved populations as well as address the cultural appropriateness of research projects. This paper describes the impact of the ReTOOL program in enhancing the research training of underrepresented minority (URM) students. Forty URM students who completed the ReTOOL program between 2012 and 2019 were invited to participate in the program evaluation. The response rate was 73% with 29 participants. Of the 29 participants, 26 trainees self-identified as Black or African-American. A structured survey developed for the program was employed for data collection, using a Likert Scale ranging from 1 to 5, with 5 being the best. The item ratings ranged from 4.45 to 4.80. Responses to open-ended questions show that ReTOOL has been instrumental in socializing and acculturating participants into the habits of scientific thinking. The combined use of quantitative and qualitative inquiry depicts that ReTOOL has been highly successful in fostering participant enrollment in advanced health-related or professional degree programs.

Abstract PO-103: Design and synthesis of tetrahydropyridine analogs as selective COX-2 inhibitors and anti-breast cancer agents

According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer has become the most common cancer globally as of 2021, accounting for 12% of all new annual cancer cases worldwide. In the US, it is estimated that there will be women with an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 49,290 non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer in 2021. Female breast cancer has also been rated as the second-highest mortality rate following lung cancer. Hence, there is a dire need for discovering more effective treatment agents. Drug discovery, by way of rational design, has paved the way for the development of novel small molecules as effective anticancer agents. It is known that chronic inflammation has a direct correlation to cancer. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) has been reported that it is present and overexpressed in many cancers. Thus, it is of great interest to study COX-2 inhibition and its relationship to cancer therapy. Tetrahydropyridines (THPs) are structures that are found in numerous natural products and possess anti-inflammatory, chemotherapeutic, and antioxidant properties. Thus, substituted phenycarbonylamino-5-ethyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine analogs have been designed as COX-2 inhibitors in our laboratory. The objective of this project is to utilize computer-aided drug design, including molecular modeling and drug-likeness studies for the basis of drug targeting studies. Molinspiration online software was used for in silico screening of molecular properties and bioactivity prediction scores. For the molecular docking studies, Schrodinger suite software was used to examine the interactions of the THP ligands with the COX-2 enzyme. More than a dozen THP analogs that were synthesized in the lab showed favorable properties aligning well with Lipinski's rule. Most of the analogs reported average to moderate bioactivity scores as enzyme inhibitors. Lastly, the docking studies predicted several interactions with residues within the COX-2 active site, although none of the compounds scored better than the reference drug, Celecoxib. N-(5-ethyl-3,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl)-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzamide has the best docking score in comparison to Celecoxib. The preliminary data obtained through computer-based investigation showed that appropriate substitutions on the THP molecule would likely produce more effective COX-2 inhibitors. The THP preparation involves a 4-step synthesis. N-amination of 3-Ethylpyridine by the aminating agent, O-mesytelenesulfonylhydroxylamine, and treated with substituted acyl chlorides gives stable pyridinium ylides. These products are purified and reducing them using sodium borohydride gives the target THP compounds. The novel THP analogs will undergo testing as COX-2 inhibitors (arachidonic acid inhibition assay) as well as determining their anti-breast cancer activities using MCF-7 and Ishikawa cell lines assessing their anti-proliferative effects.

Citation Format: Shasline Gedeon, Madhavi Gangapuram, Suresh Eyunni, Bereket Mochona, Tiffany Ardley, Kinfe Ken Redda. Design and synthesis of tetrahydropyridine analogs as selective COX-2 inhibitors and anti-breast cancer agents [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-103.

Developing a Novel Framework for an Undergraduate Cancer Research Education and Engagement Program for Underrepresented Minority Students: the Florida-California CaRE2 Research Education Core (REC) Training Program

Lack of substantive research experiences and technical skills mentoring during undergraduate studies leaves many underrepresented minority (URM) students unprepared to apply to competitive graduate programs. As a part of our ongoing effort to increase the pipeline for the development and training of successful URM scientists in biomedical sciences with focus on reducing cancer health disparities, the Florida-California Cancer Research Education and Engagement (CaRE²) Health Equity Center was launched in 2018. Funded through an NIH/NCI U54 grant mechanism, the CaRE² Center is a triad partnership among Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), a minority-serving institution, University of Florida (UF), and University of Southern California (USC) Cancer Center. One of the objectives of the triad partnership is to promote the coordination and implementation of the training of the next generation of Black and Latinx biomedical scientists in Florida and California. An important component of the CaRE² program is the Research and Education Core (REC) designed to coordinate the training of URM students and researchers at different levels in their academic and professional developments. The undergraduate cancer research training program under FAMU-CaRE² Center is a 3-year (2018-2021) project to identify, train, mentor, and provide the URM undergraduate students with the support network they need to flourish in the program and beyond. In its year-1 funding cycle, the program has made significant progress in developing a novel framework for an undergraduate cancer research education and engagement program at FAMU, one of the forefront minority institutions in the nation. The mentored research program is complemented with professional development and engagement activities, including cancer research seminars, workshops, and community outreach activities. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the strategies implemented for an effective partnership, the leadership and mentoring skills, and outcomes from the year-1 experiences. In addition, we present the progress made in advancing the pool of underrepresented minority students with scientific and academic career progression paths focused on cancer health disparities.

Abstract D035: Tracking of undergraduate research trainees for continuous improvement of the ReTOOL program

Introduction With the limited progress in eliminating cancer disparities, it is important to develop a diverse oncology workforce who will effectively address cancer disparities. Implemented in 2012, the Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL) Program focuses on increasing the number of underrepresented minority (URM) cancer scientists in Florida. URM undergraduate students from the state of Florida are invited to participate in a 16-week, hands-on research experience at the University of Florida (UF). Students are assigned to a UF mentor who facilitates their research training and aid their professional development through multiple scholarly activities (http://retool.cop.ufl.edu/). This project focuses on the program evaluation of the ReTOOL program. Methodology ReTOOL alumni are tracked for 10 years to provide evaluation and their career status through biannual surveys. The survey asks about their experience in participating in the program; skills gained during the program; how their participation has benefited their professional development; and their opinions about the program. Alumni respond to open-ended, Likert scale, and multiple choice questions. All open-ended questions in the 2015, 2016, and 2018 surveys were employed for this study. Data analysis comprised the use of themes to categorize the responses. Sub-theming was also used to address specifics within responses; for example, “networking” was divided into “networking among peers” and “networking among UF faculty.” Results Open-ended responses by ReTOOL alumni provided unique perspective on what makes undergraduate research training programs impactful for minority trainees. The ReTOOL alumni noted that strong partnerships with their UF mentor and lab made the program effective. Some attributes of an effective mentor included encouragement, frequent communication, and the ability to shadow in clinical settings. Trainees noted that the information presented about grant and proposal writing would provide future benefits. Understanding scientific research (e.g. ethical practices, documentation, and replication) was a gap filled through participation. Trainees noted that the resources available at UF were excellent and included state-of-the-art technology compared to technology at their home institutions. Improvement opportunities noted included communication with mentors, stipend disbursement timeline, and accommodation. Overall, alumni noted that participating in research informed their graduate school decisions and recommend participating in the program. Conclusion The responses from ReTOOL alumni aided in continuous improvement of the program and effective transplantation of the ReTOOL program at Florida A&M University. Although tracking alumni over the years could be challenging, it is worth it for effective planning of future research training programs. ReTOOL alumni achievements include doctoral degrees (PhDs and MD), publications, presentations and awards.

Citation Format: Parisa Fathi, Folakemi Odedina, Bereket Mochona, Renee Reams, Jennifer Nguyen, Nissa Askins, Ernest Kaninjing, Linda Behar-Horenstein, Debra Lyon, Merr Jennifer Markham, Adaora Ezeani. Tracking of undergraduate research trainees for continuous improvement of the ReTOOL program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr D035.

Abstract D076: Florida-California Cancer Health Disparity Research, Education & Engagement (CaRE2) Center: Research education overview and preliminary results

Introduction: Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU), University of Florida (UF) and University of Southern California (USC) have partnered to build a strong pathway to workforce diversity in Florida and California. Combined, the three institutions have unique expertise to support research education for Black and Latino students. FAMU (a minority serving institution) has a demonstrated track record of enrolling Under-Represented Minority (URM) students and preparing them as outstanding graduates who go on to pursue PhD degrees in biomedical and behavioral sciences. Hence, FAMU provides a unique environment for the development and testing of this triad partnership program. UF is a top world leader in interdisciplinary research and is one of only a few institutions with an academic health center having six health-related colleges. The UF’s multidisciplinary centers and institutes are designed to create synergies and collaborative research opportunities that focus on the translational nature of biomedical research, following the continuum from fundamental research to clinical research to patient care. USC, located in the multicultural city of Los Angeles, has a highly diverse student body, with 20% of the student population comprised of Black and Hispanic/Latino students. The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center (NCCC) is a major regional and national resource for cancer research, treatment, prevention, and education. Collectively, the three institutions investigate the complex origins and progression of cancer, develop prevention strategies, and search for cures. Methodology and Results: Preliminary results from the first year, which included multiple URM trainees: (thirteen undergraduate, one postbaccalaureate, eight graduate, seven postdoctoral fellows and twelve early-stage investigators), suggested that participation in CaRE2 program is a positive professional development experience, leading to acquisition of research skills in interdisciplinary cancer research, knowledge about cancer health disparities, building of personal and professional networks, and exposure to career opportunities in cancer through interaction with peers, mentors and NCI personnel. Conclusion: The CaRE2 Program appears to enhances the trainees’ motivation for a career in cancer research and may lead to the development of a more diverse workforce to address cancer health disparities. The CaRE2 program is funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through the grant of NIH/NCI1U54CA233396, 1U54CA23344 and 1U54CA23346.

Citation Format: Bereket Mochona, Debra Lyon, Ite A. Offringa, Kinfe K. Redda, Renee R. Reams, Folakemi Odedina, Diana J. Wilkie, John D. Carpten, Mariana C. Stern. Florida-California Cancer Health Disparity Research, Education & Engagement (CaRE2) Center: Research education overview and preliminary results [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr D076.

Increasing the Representation of Minority Students in the Biomedical Workforce: the ReTOOL Program

With the growing burden of cancer in minority populations and limited progress in eliminating cancer disparities, it has become important to develop a diverse oncology workforce in basic, clinical, and behavioral research who will address cancer disparities and increase the participation of minority populations in clinical trials. To address the lack of well-trained underrepresented minority cancer scientists in Florida, the University of Florida collaborated with Florida A&M University in 2012 to establish the Florida Prostate Cancer Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL) Program. Since 2012, the ReTOOL program has expanded to (1) cover all areas of cancer disparities; (2) offer training opportunities to minority students from all historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in Florida; and (3) successfully secure both intramural and extramural federal funding to continuously provide research training opportunities for minority students in Florida. Focusing primarily on training Black students, the ReTOOL model includes culturally sensitive recruitment, mentorship, didactic curriculum, networking, and hands on experience in cancer research. This paper discusses the lessons learned from administering the ReTOOL program for 5 years, which includes having the right inputs (such as majority-minority institutions partnership, funding, faculty advisors, committed mentors, culturally competent staff, and standardized program requirements) and processes (such as pipeline approach, structured applications system, didactic curriculum, research experience, and continuous mentoring) for an effective research training program. The program impact is an increase in the pool of underrepresented minority candidates with scientific and academic career progression paths focused on reducing cancer health disparities.

4,5-Dimethoxy-2-nitrobenzohydrazides and 1-(1-Benzylpiperidin-4-yl)ethan-1-ones as Potential Antioxidant/Cholinergic Endowed Small Molecule Leads

The objective of this research is to generate leads for developing our ultimate poly-active molecules with utility in central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Indeed, poly-active molecules capable of mitigating brain free radical damage while enhancing acetylcholine signaling (via cholinesterase inhibition) are still being sought for combating Alzheimer's disease (AD). We differentiate "poly-active" agents from "multi-target" ones by defining them as single molecular entities designed to target only specific contributory synergistic pharmacologies in a disease. For instance, in AD, free radicals either initiate or act in synergy with other pharmacologies, leading to disease worsening. For this preliminary report, a total of 14 (i.e., 4,5-dimethoxy-2-nitrobenzohydrazide plus 1-(1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl)ethan-1-one) derivatives were synthesized and screened, in silico and in vitro, for their ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE)/butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes. Overall, six derivatives (4a, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 9b) exhibited potent (>30%) antioxidant properties in the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. The antioxidant values were either comparable or more potent than the comparator molecules (ascorbic acid, resveratrol, and trolox). Only three compounds (4d, 9a, 9c) yielded modest AChE/BuChE inhibitions (>10%). Please note that a SciFinder substance data base search confirmed that most of the compounds reported herein are new, except 9a and 9c which are also commercially available.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluations of Ring Substituted Tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) as Anti-Breast Cancer Agents

Breast cancer is a leading cause of mortality among women, resulting in more than half a million deaths worldwide every year. Although chemotherapeutic drugs remain the main stay of cancer treatment, it is observed that toxicity to normal cells poses a limitation to their therapeutic values. Moreover, the patient recovery rate from advanced breast cancer by chemotherapy is still unacceptably low. Tetrahydroisoqinoline derivatives (THIQs) were reported to act as selective subtype estrogen receptor antagonists/agonists and may serve as potential therapeutic agents for breast cancer. In continuation of previous work we systematically synthesized and characterized the tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQs) analogs. In-vitro antiproliferative activity of new substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline analogs were evaluated against human ER (+) MCF-7 (breast), ER (−) MDA-MB-231 (breast) and Ishikawa (endometrial) cancer cell lines using the CellTiter-Glo luminescent cell viability assay. The most active compounds obtained in this study were 2b, 2i, and 3 g as demonstrated by their activity (IC₅₀=0.2 μg/mL, 0.08 μg/mL; 0.61 μg/mL, 0.09 μg/mL; 0.25 μg/mL, 0.11 μg/mL) against MCF-7 and Ishikawa cell lines respectively, in comparison to Tamoxifen activity (IC₅₀=3.99 μg/mL, 7.87 μg/ml). The newly synthesized molecules were docked in the active sites of the ER-α (PDB: 3ERT), ER-β (PDB: 1QKN) and alpha-beta tubulin taxol complex (1JFF) crystal structures to determine the probable binding modes (bioactive conformations) of the active compounds.

Synthesis and Cytotoxic Evaluation of Pyrrole Hetarylazoles Containing Benzimidazole/Pyrazolone/1,3,4-Oxadiazole Motifs

Azomethine linked pyrrole bishetarylazoles containing benzimidazole/pyrazolone/1,3,4-oxadiazole were synthesized in satisfactory yields. Their structures were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and elemental analysis. Evaluation for the cytotoxic activities In vitro against a panel of breast cancer cell lines (MDA-AB-231, BT-474 and Ishikawa cells) revealed that the pyrrole-benzimidazole hybrids are more potent than the pyrazolone and 1,3,4-oxadiazole hybrids in all cell lines. Compound (9) displayed promising cytotoxicity against BT-474 cell line with IC50 values, 7.7 µM.

Synthesis, characterization, and electrospinning of novel polyaniline-peptide polymers

Aniline-peptide (FLDQV, FLDQVC, Dansyl-FLDQV, Dansyl-FLDQVC, and FLDQV-AMC) mixtures underwent oxidative chemical and electrochemical polymerization in excess of aniline. The products of the chemical polymerization were low molecular weight polymers containing more than 70% peptide. Electrochemically polymerized species polyaniline-FLDQV (PANI-FLDQV) consisted mainly of polyaniline units containing about 10% peptide. The solubility of the latter in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFP) was similar to the camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) doped emeraldine base (PANI-CSA) solubility, however the weight composition of the electrospun fibers produced from the two polymers was significantly different. 2D 1H-13C HSQC analyses were employed to analyze the binding between the aniline and peptide moieties. Binding of peptide to polyaniline is reflected by the appearance of extra cross-peaks which display line broadening between the free polyaniline and the free pentapeptide. Peptides may be chemically bonded to the polymer molecules, but they may also act as doping agents to the nitrogen atoms via hydrogen bonding.

Design and evaluation of novel oxadiazole derivatives as potential prostate cancer agents

Various 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives have been synthesized and their antiproliferative properties have been studied. The in vitro screening was performed against androgen dependent (LNCaP) and androgen independent (PC-3) prostate cancer cell lines. Most of the compounds showed promising activity. Among them, compounds 2d (IC50=0.22 and 1.3μM) and 2a (IC50=8.34 and 2,5μM) have shown significant activities on PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines respectively. To investigate the mechanism of cell death we performed cell apoptosis staining and cell cycle arrest assay on more sensitive PC-3 cell lines on 2d. The results demonstrated that 2d induced apoptosis and shifted the cells to the sub G0/G1 and S phase. Our study evidently identified the potency of compound 2d as potential anti-prostate cancer agent.

Abstract C14: The Florida ReTOOL Program: Creating a training bridge for the next generation of biomedical scientists

Background and Objective: There is a need to develop a cadre of racially and ethnically diverse, well-trained scientists to: (1) increase the capacity for scientific research among underserved populations; (2) address cultural appropriateness of the conceptualization, design and implementation of research ideas; (3) effectively and respectfully deliver health care interventions for diverse populations; and (4) eliminate health disparities. To achieve our long-term goal of increasing the pool of minority cancer researchers, the objective of the Florida Cancer Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL) program is to develop, promote and sustain an independent, competitive cancer research training program that creates opportunities and promotes careers in cancer research for underrepresented minority (URM) students. The ReTOOL program trains URM students from University of Florida (UF), Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) at UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC).

Research Strategy: Based on over 10 years research training experiences for URM students in Florida, our strategy includes: (1) partnership between a minority institution and a comprehensive cancer center, with the training occurring at the cancer center; (2) dedicated mentor pool of nationally recognized scientists who are committed to diversity and have expertise in the area of basic, behavioral or clinical sciences; (3) committed faculty advisors at the home (minority) institutions who provide preparatory training and continuous mentoring for trainees; (4) a culturally responsive staff at the cancer center to assist trainees effectively navigate the resources at the cancer center and provide support outside academic/professional development; (5) an effective recruitment process that includes rigorous screening process and orientation; (6) clear requirements and expectations for the training program; (7) cradle to grave system to support trainees; and (8) trainee tracking and evaluation. The ReTOOL program focuses on successfully bridging URM students to graduate or medical school and supporting the trainees throughout their career. The program includes: (i) Basic ReTOOL 12-week summer training, funded by the US Department of Defense, for URM students without research experience; (ii) Academy I ReTOOL 12-week summer training, funded by the National Cancer Institute and UFHCC, for continuous/subsequent training of Basic ReTOOL alumni; (iii) Academy II ReTOOL 1-year post-baccalaureate training (if needed), funded by the UFHCC, to bridge ReTOOL alumni to graduate/medical school; and (iv) triad continuous mentoring by ReTOOL program director, FAMU/BCU minority institution faculty advisor and UF faculty mentor.

Results: 19 URM students successfully completed the program between 2012 and 2015. The scholarly achievements of the program include 20 completed projects by URM students, 12 published scientific abstracts presented at national/international conferences, 3 publications, 3 publications in progress, 3 grant awards based on the ReTOOL program, and 12 student recognitions/awards. Six students have been admitted to graduate/medical schools, including UF, FAMU, Duke University, Indiana University and Howard University. 2 students have just been admitted to the Academy II ReTOOL 1-year post-baccalaureate training at UF. The ReTOOL program has also led to an increase in cancer health disparities research at UF, especially among the ReTOOL mentors. According to a ReTOOL mentee: “The growth that I have made is without a doubt beneficial to me progressing towards the next chapter in my life.” A ReTOOL mentor stated in his evaluation, “Rewarding opportunity to teach and mentor minority students in the field of prostate cancer.”

Conclusion: Developing and sustaining the interests of URM students in biomedical science requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach, as seen in the ReTOOL program. The success of the ReTOOL program has led to a training model for diversity in graduate programs at UF and currently being adopted by multiple departments at UF.

Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Merry Jennifer Markham, Renee Reams, Bereket Mochona, Dixon Alma, Nguyen Jennifer, Gilbert Lauren. The Florida ReTOOL Program: Creating a training bridge for the next generation of biomedical scientists. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eighth AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 13-16, 2015; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2016;25(3 Suppl):Abstract nr C14.

Synthesis of Some Benzimidazole Derivatives Bearing 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Moiety as Anticancer Agents

In an effort to establish new benzimidazole related structural leads with improved anticancer activity, several new benzimidazole derivatives (5a-i) with 1,3,4-oxadiazole scaffold incorporated were synthesized and studied for their anticancer activity. The anticancer screening against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines showed that compound (5c) exhibited moderate cytotoxicity.

Abstract 3903: Synthesis of substituted N-{4-[(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfanyl]-3,6-dihydropyridin-1(2h)-yl} benzamide/benzenesulfonamide as antiinflamatory and anticancer agents

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the industrialized world, accounting for nearly one of every three cancers diagnosed. There is a strong association between chronic inflammatory conditions in a particular organ and cancer specific to that organ. The longer the inflammation persists, the higher the risk of associated carcinogenesis. There is abundant epidemiological and experimental evidence that NSAID's might inhibit tumor development in a number of organs. COX-2 expression may be a fundamental step in breast cancer pathogenesis acting through prostaglandin-dependent mechanisms. Tetrahydropyridine (THP) analogs are compounds of diverse biological activities like analgesics, anti-inflammatory and chemotherapeutic agents. Our earlier research results indicated that some of the THP derivatives showed COX-2 inhibition and anti-inflammatory activities on rat paw edema assay studies. There has been remarkable effort in developing new classes of compounds to minimize the side effects of the NSAIDs and increase the selectivity of COX-2 inhibitors. We now report the synthesis of substituted N-{4-[(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfanyl]-3,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl} benzamide/benzenesulfonamide as anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents to continue the development of new classes of anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. The starting material ethyl (pyridin-4-ylsulfanyl)acetate was obtained by the reaction of (4-pyridylthio)acetic acid dissolved in ethanol and several drops of 98% H2SO4 and the mixture was heated to reflux for 12 h. Mesitylene sulfonyl chloride was added with stirring to a solution of ethylacetohydroxymate and triethylamine in dimethylformamide at 0o C. Hydrolysis of this compound with the mixture of p-dioxane-70% perchloric acid and allowing them to react for 45 min gave a white solid of O-mesitylene sulfonyl hydroxylamine (MSH). Ethyl (pyridin-4-ylsulfanyl)acetate was reacted with MSH in dichloromethane to produce 1-amino-4-(2-ethoxy-2-oxoethylthio)pyridinium mesitylenesulfonate. Reaction of the amino salt with substituted benzoyl chloride/benzenesulfonyl chloride in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran gave stable benzoyl/benzene sulfonyl imino ylides. This was followed by reduction with sodium borohydride in absolute ethanol, which furnished the target THP compounds. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 estrogen receptor negative breast cancer cell line, and Ishikawa cells, using the CellTiter-Glo (CTG) luminescent cell viability assay. Two compounds showed potent anticancer activities using these cell lines. This research was supported by NIH/ RCMI Grant # G12 RR 03020 and Pharmaceutical Research Center NIH/NCRR Grant 1 C06 RR12512-01.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3903. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3903

Dansyl - Substituted Aza Crown Ethers: Complexation with Alkali, Alkaline Earth Metal Ions and Ammonium

The present study investigates the binding properties of four dansyl substituted aza-crown ethers with alkali, alkaline earth metal ions and ammonium. The influence of the solvent polarity and protonation on the photophysical properties of the compounds was studied by UV/Vis and fluorescence methods. The host species caused only slight changes on the absorption spectra of the ligands. The fluorescence changes were more pronounced and concentration dependent thus allowing to calculate the binding constants of the process. The most stable complex under our working conditions was the one between Ba(2+) and DNS18C6.

Abstract 3263: Synthesis of substituted N-(4-(6-methyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl) benzamide/benzenesulfonamide as anticancer agents

There is a strong association between chronic inflammatory conditions in a particular organ and the incidence of cancer specific to that organ. The longer the inflammation persists, the higher is the risk of associated carcinogenesis. Our interest is to synthesis new, potent and safer anticancer agents. The functionalized tetrahydropyridine (THP) ring systems are widely found in biologically active natural products and pharmaceuticals. The pharmacological activities of the THP derivatives depended greatly on the position and nature of the substitutions on the THP ring structure. 2-Substituted benzimidazole derivatives have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, antimicrobial, anticancer, and cycloxygenase inhibiting activities. It is believed that synthesizing new compounds that contain both the pharmacophores of THP and benzimidazole could have the potential of becoming effective anticancer agents.

6-Methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole was obtained by the reaction of isonicotinc acid, 4-methyl benzene-1,2-diamine and polyphosphoric acid, which were stirred in an oil bath at 180oC for 2h. Mesitylene sulfonyl chloride was added with stirring to a solution of ethylacetohydroxymate and triethylamine in dimethylformamide at 0o C. Hydrolysis of this compound with the mixture of p-dioxane and 70% perchloric acid for 45 min gave a white solid of MSH. The MSH reacted with 6-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole to give 1-amino-4-(6-methyl-1H-benzo[d]- imidazol-2-yl) pyridinium mesitylenesulfonate, which further reacted with different substituted benzoyl chlorides/benzenesulfonyl chlorides in 10% NaOH solution to gave stable benzoyl/benzenesulfonyl imino ylides. These ylides were reduced using sodium borohydride in absolute ethanol and gave the target compounds, substituted N-(4-(6-methyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl)benzamide/benzenesulfonamides. The cytotoxic effects of these substituted THP derivatives were determined using the MCF-7 estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 estrogen receptor negative breast cancer cells, and Ishikawa cells, using the CellTiter-Glo (CTG) luminescent cell viability assay. Two target molecules exhibited strong cytotoxicity activities with significant IC50 values on MCF-7, Ishikawa and MDA-MB-231 cell lines.

This research was supported by the NIH/RCMI Grant G12RR03020 and Pharmaceutical Research Center NIH/NCRR Grant 1 C06 RR12512-01.

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 3263. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3263

Abstract 1369: Synthesis of substituted N-[(3-(1H-pyrrol-1yl)methyl]-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl) benzamide/benzene sulfonamide as anticancer agents

Cancer has proven to be one of the most intractable human diseases, and as yet no anticancer agents that are highly effective and safe are available. Therefore, synthesis of novel, potent, selective and less toxic anticancer agents remains the most pressing goal of many investigators. Tetrahydropyridine (THP) ring moieties have attracted synthetic interests for being essential structures in many agrochemicals as well as medicinal agents. The anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of compounds consisting of reduced pyridine ring systems were investigated in our laboratory. The pharmacological activities of the (THP) derivatives depended on the nature of the substituents on the THP ring moiety. In the current investigation, we synthesized many analogs maintaining the N-(3-[(1-H-pyrrol-1-yl)methyl]-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl) benzamide/benzene sulfonamides, at which the phenyl ring was substituted with groups having different electronic, steric and lipophilic properties.

Mesitylene sulfonyl chloride was added with stirring to a solution of ethylacetohydroxymate and triethylamine in dimethylformamide at 0o C. Hydrolysis of this compound with the mixture of p-dioxane-70% perchloric acid and allowing them to react for 45 min gave a white solid of O-mesitylene sulfonyl hydroxylamine (MSH). MSH was used to prepare the N-amino salt since it served as an aminating agent. 3-[(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)methyl]pyridine was reacted with MSH in dichloromethane to produce 3-[(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)methyl]-1-aminopyridinium mesitylenesulfonate, the N-amino salt. Reaction of the amino salt with substituted benzoyl chloride/benzenesulfonyl chloride in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran containing triethylamine gave stable benzoyl/benzene sulfonyl imino ylides. This was followed by reduction with sodium borohydride in absolute ethanol, which furnished the target compounds substituted N-(3-[(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)methyl]-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl) benzamide/benzene sulfonamides. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 estrogen receptor negative breast cancer cell line, and Ishikawa cells, using the CellTiter-Glo (CTG) luminescent cell viability assay. N-(3-[(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)methyl]-5,6-dihydropyridin-1(2H)-yl)-4-methoxybenzene- sulfonamide showed the most potent cytotoxicity with an IC50 values of 47, 28, and 44 µM on MCF-7, Ishikawa and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, respectively.

This research was supported by NIH/ RCMI Grant # G12 RR 03020 and Pharmaceutical Research Center NIH/NCRR Grant 1 C06 RR12512-01.

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 1369. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1369

Synthesis of 2-(N-Benzylpyrrolyl)-benzimidazoles Using Polyphosphoric Acid Prompted Cyclocondensation

Synthesis of a series of 2-substituted benzimidazoles was carried out for screening anti-inflammatory activities. 2-(N-benzylpyrrolyl)-benzimidazoles 9a-k were synthesized from N-benzyl-2-pyrrole carboxylic acids 8a-d and 4-substituted-1,2-phenylenediamines by cyclocondensation utilizing polyphosphoric acid (PPA) as condensing agent. The N-benzyl-2-pyrrole carboxylic acids were prepared by standard method of N-benzylation of 2-pyrrole carboxylate using NaH/DMF and appropriately substituted benzyl halides followed by alkaline hydrolysis.

N-(4-amino-7-nitrobenzaoxa-1,3-diazole)-substituted aza crown ethers: complexation with alkali, alkaline earth metal ions and ammonium

Three novel aza-crown ether derivatives incorporating 4-amino-7-nitrobenzaoxa-1,3-diazole (NBD) chromophore were synthesized and their structure confirmed by (1)H-NMR, IR and elemental analysis. The influence of the solvent polarity and protonation on the photophysical properties of NBD-15-crown-5 was studied by UV/Vis and fluorescence methods. The influence of the investigated cations on the absorption spectra of the ligands was negligible, however emission was strongly affected. Complexation and binding stability of NBD-aza-15-crown-5 and NBD-aza-18-crown-6 were studied using fluorescence spectroscopy. NBD-aza-18-crown-6 exhibits strong selectivity toward Ca(2+) and Sr(2+) ions with formation constants about 10(3) times higher than the formation constants with the other ions included in the study.

Synthesis and anti-inflammatory activities of N-benzoylamino-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine analogs

The anti-inflammatory activity of N-benzoylamino-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (Fig. 1) has been previously described. Further structural modification of 1 indicated that anti-inflammatory activities were greatly influenced by the position and nature of substituents on the tetrahydropyridine ring moiety. Analogs of 1 with benzyl group at position 4 of the tetrahydropyridine ring moiety and substituents on the benzene moiety were synthesized (9a-90). The effect of these substituents on pharmacological activity was screened in vivo using the carrageenan-induced paw edema assay in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Analogs with electron-donating substituents at position 4 and 2 of the benzene moiety 9f, 90 and 9d exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activities, similar to that observed for the reference compound, indomethacin. In summary, at an early stage of efforts to establish structure-activity relationship within this series, we found that 9f is a promising lead compound chosen for further investigation.