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Rydzewski NR, Shi Y, Li C, Chrostek MR, Bakhtiar H, Helzer KT, Bootsma ML, Berg TJ, Harari PM, Floberg JM, Blitzer GC, Kosoff D, Taylor AK, Sharifi MN, Yu M, Lang JM, Patel KR, Citrin DE, Sundling KE, Zhao SG. A platform-independent AI tumor lineage and site (ATLAS) classifier. Commun Biol 2024; 7:314. [PMID: 38480799 PMCID: PMC10937974 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05981-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Histopathologic diagnosis and classification of cancer plays a critical role in guiding treatment. Advances in next-generation sequencing have ushered in new complementary molecular frameworks. However, existing approaches do not independently assess both site-of-origin (e.g. prostate) and lineage (e.g. adenocarcinoma) and have minimal validation in metastatic disease, where classification is more difficult. Utilizing gradient-boosted machine learning, we developed ATLAS, a pair of separate AI Tumor Lineage and Site-of-origin models from RNA expression data on 8249 tumor samples. We assessed performance independently in 10,376 total tumor samples, including 1490 metastatic samples, achieving an accuracy of 91.4% for cancer site-of-origin and 97.1% for cancer lineage. High confidence predictions (encompassing the majority of cases) were accurate 98-99% of the time in both localized and remarkably even in metastatic samples. We also identified emergent properties of our lineage scores for tumor types on which the model was never trained (zero-shot learning). Adenocarcinoma/sarcoma lineage scores differentiated epithelioid from biphasic/sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Also, predicted lineage de-differentiation identified neuroendocrine/small cell tumors and was associated with poor outcomes across tumor types. Our platform-independent single-sample approach can be easily translated to existing RNA-seq platforms. ATLAS can complement and guide traditional histopathologic assessment in challenging situations and tumors of unknown primary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R Rydzewski
- Radiation Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yue Shi
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Chenxuan Li
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Hamza Bakhtiar
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kyle T Helzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Matthew L Bootsma
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Tracy J Berg
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - John M Floberg
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David Kosoff
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Amy K Taylor
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Marina N Sharifi
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Menggang Yu
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Joshua M Lang
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Krishnan R Patel
- Radiation Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Deborah E Citrin
- Radiation Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kaitlin E Sundling
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Shuang G Zhao
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
- William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
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Blitzer GC, Paz C, Glassey A, Ganz OR, Giri J, Pennati A, Meyers RO, Bates AM, Nickel KP, Weiss M, Morris ZS, Mattison RJ, McDowell KA, Croxford E, Chappell RJ, Glazer TA, Rogus-Pulia NM, Galipeau J, Kimple RJ. Functionality of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells derived from head and neck cancer patients - A FDA-IND enabling study regarding MSC-based treatments for radiation-induced xerostomia. Radiother Oncol 2024; 192:110093. [PMID: 38224919 PMCID: PMC10922976 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Salivary dysfunction is a significant side effect of radiation therapy for head and neck cancer (HNC). Preliminary data suggests that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can improve salivary function. Whether MSCs from HNC patients who have completed chemoradiation are functionally similar to those from healthy patients is unknown. We performed a pilot clinical study to determine whether bone marrow-derived MSCs [MSC(M)] from HNC patients could be used for the treatment of RT-induced salivary dysfunction. METHODS An IRB-approved pilot clinical study was undertaken on HNC patients with xerostomia who had completed treatment two or more years prior. Patients underwent iliac crest bone marrow aspirate and MSC(M) were isolated and cultured. Culture-expanded MSC(M) were stimulated with IFNγ and cryopreserved prior to reanimation and profiling for functional markers by flow cytometry and ELISA. MSC(M) were additionally injected into mice with radiation-induced xerostomia and the changes in salivary gland histology and salivary production were examined. RESULTS A total of six subjects were enrolled. MSC(M) from all subjects were culture expanded to > 20 million cells in a median of 15.5 days (range 8-20 days). Flow cytometry confirmed that cultured cells from HNC patients were MSC(M). Functional flow cytometry demonstrated that these IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) acquired an immunosuppressive phenotype. IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) from HNC patients were found to express GDNF, WNT1, and R-spondin 1 as well as pro-angiogenesis and immunomodulatory cytokines. In mice, IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) injection after radiation decreased the loss of acinar cells, decreased the formation of fibrosis, and increased salivary production. CONCLUSIONS MSC (M) from previously treated HNC patients can be expanded for auto-transplantation and are functionally active. Furthermore IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) express proteins implicated in salivary gland regeneration. This study provides preliminary data supporting the feasibility of using autologous MSC(M) from HNC patients to treat RT-induced salivary dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Cristina Paz
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Annemarie Glassey
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Olga R Ganz
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Jayeeta Giri
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Andrea Pennati
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Ross O Meyers
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Amber M Bates
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Kwangok P Nickel
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Marissa Weiss
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Zachary S Morris
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Ryan J Mattison
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Kimberly A McDowell
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Emma Croxford
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, 610 Walnut Street, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53726 USA
| | - Richard J Chappell
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, 610 Walnut Street, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53726 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Tiffany A Glazer
- Department of Surgery, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Nicole M Rogus-Pulia
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, 2500 Overlook Terrace, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Jacques Galipeau
- Department of Medicine, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA
| | - Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705 USA.
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Weber BW, Blitzer GC, Harari CM, Ruesga SL, Huenerberg KJ, Anderson B, Schuster JM. Empowering the Radiation Oncology Triage Nurse Role: A Single-Center Analysis. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2023; 27:637-643. [PMID: 38009877 DOI: 10.1188/23.cjon.637-643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triage nurses play a crucial role in addressing patient telephone calls. However, topics that radiation oncology (RO) triage nurses encounter have not been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVES This project established baseline patient issues addressed via telephone by RO triage nurses in a clinically busy academic RO department; identified themes and potential areas for workflow improvement; and evaluated interprofessional perceptions of RO triage from nurses, physicians, and radiation therapists. METHODS This two-part study was conducted from September through November 2021 using a retrospective chart review that analyzed patient communications to the RO nurse triage line. Physicians, nurses, and radiation therapists completed an online survey about their experiences with nurse triage. FINDINGS Analysis revealed 13 message themes, with scheduling questions being the most common theme. Survey results indicated that average provider satisfaction with the effectiveness of triage was 3 of 5, perceived triage nurse preparedness to resolve encounters was 3 of 5, and perception of the triage program by physicians was 2.4 of 5.
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Morris BA, Holmes EE, Anger NJ, Cooley G, Schuster JM, Hurst N, Baschnagel AM, Bassetti MF, Blitzer GC, Chappell RJ, Bayliss RA, Morris ZS, Ritter MA, Floberg JM. Toxicity and Patient-Reported Quality-of-Life Outcomes After Prostate Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy With Focal Boost to Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Identified Prostate Cancer Lesions: Results of a Phase 2 Trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:613-623. [PMID: 37179035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this prospective phase 2 trial, we investigated the toxicity and patient-reported quality-of-life outcomes in patients treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to the prostate gland and a simultaneous focal boost to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-identified intraprostatic lesions while also de-escalating dose to the adjacent organs at risk. METHODS AND MATERIALS Eligible patients included low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer (Gleason score ≤7, prostate specific antigen ≤20, T stage ≤2b). SBRT was prescribed to 40 Gy in 5 fractions delivered every other day to the prostate, with any areas of high disease burden (MRI-identified prostate imaging reporting and data system 4 or 5 lesions) simultaneously escalated to 42.5 to 45 Gy and areas overlapping organs at risk (within 2 mm of urethra, rectum, and bladder) constrained to 36.25 Gy (n = 100). Patients without a pretreatment MRI or without MRI-identified lesions were treated to dose of 37.5 Gy with no focal boost (n = 14). RESULTS From 2015 to 2022, a total of 114 patients were enrolled with a median follow-up of 42 months. No acute or late grade 3+ gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity was observed. One patient developed late grade 3 genitourinary (GU) toxicity at 16 months. In patients treated with focal boost (n = 100), acute grade 2 GU and GI toxicity was seen in 38% and 4% of patients, respectively. Cumulative late grade 2+ GU and GI toxicities at 24 months were 13% and 5% respectively. Patient-reported outcomes showed no significant long-term change from baseline in urinary, bowel, hormonal, or sexual quality-of-life scores after treatment. CONCLUSIONS SBRT to a dose of 40 Gy to the prostate gland with a simultaneous focal boost up to 45 Gy is well tolerated with similar rates of acute and late grade 2+ GI and GU toxicity as seen in other SBRT regimens without intraprostatic boost. Moreover, no significant long-term changes were seen in patient-reported urinary, bowel, or sexual outcomes from pretreatment baseline.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma E Holmes
- Biostatistics & Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Richard J Chappell
- Biostatistics & Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
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Blitzer GC, Zhao SG, Bradley KA, Hartenbach EM. The role of ctDNA in endometrial cancer: A tool for risk stratification and disease monitoring. Gynecol Oncol 2023; 178:170-171. [PMID: 37648640 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Human Oncology, United States of America.
| | - Shuang G Zhao
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Human Oncology, United States of America
| | - Kristin A Bradley
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Human Oncology, United States of America
| | - Ellen M Hartenbach
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, United States of America
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Blitzer GC, Glazer T, Burr A, Gustafson S, Ganz O, Meyers R, McDowell KA, Nickel KP, Mattison RJ, Weiss M, Chappell R, Rogus-Pulia NM, Galipeau J, Kimple RJ. Marrow-Derived Autologous Stromal Cells for the Restoration of Salivary Hypofunction (MARSH): A pilot, first-in-human study of interferon gamma-stimulated marrow mesenchymal stromal cells for treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:1139-1144. [PMID: 37589639 PMCID: PMC10615723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Xerostomia, or the feeling of dry mouth, is a significant side effect of radiation therapy for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Preliminary data suggest that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) can improve salivary function. We performed a first-in-human pilot study of interferon gamma (IFNγ)-stimulated autologous bone marrow-derived MSCs, or MSC(M), for the treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia (RIX). Here we present the primary safety and secondary efficacy endpoints. METHODS A single-center pilot clinical trial was conducted investigating the safety and tolerability of autologous IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M). The study was conducted under an approved Food and Drug Administration Investigational New Drug application using an institutional review board-approved protocol (NCT04489732). Patients underwent iliac crest bone marrow aspirate and MSC(M) were isolated, cultured, stimulated with IFNγ and cryopreserved for later use. Banked cells were thawed and allowed to recover in culture before patients received a single injection of 10 × 106 MSC(M) into the right submandibular gland under ultrasound guidance. The primary objective was determination of safety and tolerability by evaluating dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). A DLT was defined as submandibular pain >5 on a standard 10-point pain scale or any serious adverse event (SAE) within 1 month after injection. Secondary objectives included analysis of efficacy as measured by salivary quantification and using three validated quality of life instruments. Quantitative results are reported as mean and standard deviation. RESULTS Six patients with radiation-induced xerostomia who had completed radiation at least 2 years previously (average 7.8 years previously) were enrolled in the pilot study. The median age was 71 (61-74) years. Five (83%) patients were male. Five patients (83%) were treated with chemoradiation and one patient (17%) with radiation alone. Grade 1 pain was seen in 50% of patients after submandibular gland injection; all pain resolved within 4 days. No patients reported pain 1 month after injection, with no SAE or other DLTs reported 1 month after injection. The analysis of secondary endpoints demonstrated a trend of increased salivary production. Three patients (50%) had an increase in unstimulated saliva at 1 and 3 months after MSC(M) injection. Quality of life surveys also showed a trend toward improvement. CONCLUSIONS Injection of autologous IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) into a singular submandibular gland of patients with RIX is safe and well tolerated in this pilot study. A trend toward an improvement in secondary endpoints of salivary quantity and quality of life was observed. This first-in-human study provides support for further investigation into IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) injected in both submandibular glands as an innovative approach to treat RIX and improve quality of life for patients with HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
| | - Tiffany Glazer
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Adam Burr
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sara Gustafson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Olga Ganz
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ross Meyers
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kimberly A McDowell
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kwangok P Nickel
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ryan J Mattison
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Marissa Weiss
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Richard Chappell
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Nicole M Rogus-Pulia
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jacques Galipeau
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
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Harari C, Blitzer GC, Weber BW, Ruesga S, Anderson BM, Schuster JM. Empowering the Role of Nurse Triage in Radiation Oncology - A Single Center Analysis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:e391. [PMID: 37785314 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.1511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) Hours spent on the increasing volume of electronic medical record (EMR) messages and phone calls is a significant contributor to clinician burnout1. Within radiation oncology, nurses often serve a critical team role in patient education and EMR and phone call response. With the goal of maintaining high quality care and rapid EMR and phone response, our clinic utilizes a rotating triage nurse position; patterns of practice and team member perspectives are investigated. MATERIALS/METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted analyzing EMR messages and phone calls to the RO department between Sept-Dec 2021. Messages were identified for theme, author of message recorded (patient, family, provider), number of message iterations, and message pathway. Separately, an online survey was administered via REDCap to physicians (50% response rate), nurses (57% response rate), and radiation therapist (60% response rate) to assess nurse triage efficacy and efficiency. RESULTS Four of the most common message themes were scheduling (26%), medications (21%), side effects/symptoms (15%), and treatment decision making (13%). Only 12% of messages were resolved by the RO triage nurse without further message forwarding. The average number of message iterations by healthcare personnel was 2.93 with mode of 2 (i.e., RN -> patient -> MD is a 2 message iteration). Across all themes physicians concluded 67% of the routed messages and nursing concluded 29%. By theme, physicians concluded 95% of treatment questions, 77% of medication questions, 69% of side effect/symptom questions, and 57% of scheduling questions. Survey results indicated average satisfaction with 'effectiveness of triage' was 3 (max 5), perceived triage nurse preparedness to resolve encounters was 3 (max 5), and perception of the overall EMR triage program by physicians was 2.2 (max 5). CONCLUSION Staff survey established clear opportunity to improve effectiveness of RN triage through better alignment of nurse and physician expectations and improving nurse preparedness. Two-thirds of patient messages were ultimately concluded by physician response whereas 12% were resolved by nurse triage alone. Preparing nursing staff about common patient messages should increase autonomy to resolve patient queries and may improve work satisfaction for all providers through enhanced multidisciplinary collaboration and empowering individuals to practice at top of his/her license.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - G C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - B W Weber
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - S Ruesga
- University of Wisconsin Department of Human Oncology, Madison, WI
| | - B M Anderson
- University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - J M Schuster
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
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Eckelmann BJ, Blitzer GC, Smilowitz JB, Trask D, Weiss M, Weber S, Abbott D, Varley P, Neuman H, Maloney JD, Hinshaw JL, Morris BA, Merfeld E, Howard SP, Bradley KA, Baschnagel AM, Bassetti MF, Hennessey DW, Morris Z. Initial Results of a Phase II Trial of Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy for Inoperable Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:S147-S148. [PMID: 37784374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) For patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) who cannot or choose not to have surgery, radiation can provide local tumor control in both palliative and definitive settings. Conventionally fractionated radiation provides modest (< 50%) rates of local control (LC) for STS at 2 years. To our knowledge, no prospective studies to date have evaluated the safety and efficacy of dose-escalated hypofractionated radiation therapy as treatment of inoperable STS. We hypothesized that dose-escalated, hypofractionated radiation therapy (RT) for inoperable STS could achieve higher rates of LC than reported in trials of conventionally fractionated RT. MATERIALS/METHODS An IRB-approved single institution prospective phase II clinical trial of dose-escalated, hypofractionated RT as local control for STS was designed and completed planned accrual. Exclusion criteria included anti-cancer systemic therapy within the preceding two weeks. Patients underwent hypofractionated RT utilizing either CT-guided radiation (24, 50%) or MRI-guided radiation treatments (24, 50%). Data on patient characteristics, RT dose and fractionation, LC, toxicity, and overall survival (OS) was collected. The primary endpoint was local tumor control (stable, partial, or complete response according to RECIST) at 2-years after completion of radiation. Secondary endpoints were acute and late toxicity, rates of complete response, 5-year local tumor control, and progression-free and overall survival. Acute toxicity was graded on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v5.0 scale during treatment and at 3 months following RT. RESULTS Forty-eight patients were enrolled, 17 with non-metastatic localized disease and 31 with metastatic disease. Median patient age was 64. Twenty-five men and 23 women were treated. Ninety-six total lesions were treated (36 lung, 7 extremity, 37 abdominopelvic, 16 other). Radiation dose per fraction ranged from 6-12 Gy for a total of 1-12 fractions (median dose was 52.5 Gy in 6 fractions. Median patient follow-up is 8.6 months (range 1 - 36 months). Six patients (13%) did not complete initial 3-month follow-up imaging. Of the 40 patients who have undergone 3-month follow up imaging, 32 (80%) had stable disease, 5 (12.5%) had partial response, 0 had complete response, and 3 (7.5%) had disease progression. Median PFS was 17.2 months at time of last follow up. Median OS was 12.9 months at time of last follow up. Twenty-five patients (52%) experienced an acute toxicity likely or possibly related to radiation. Three (6%) patients experienced CTACE grade 3 or greater treatment-related toxicity (pain, weakness, decreased range of motion, dermatitis). CONCLUSION In this initial report of a prospective, single-institution clinical trial of hypofractionated RT for STS not undergoing resection, we report low rates of acute grade 3 or greater toxicity and high rates of tumor response. We will continue to follow these patients to assess late toxicity and durability of tumor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Eckelmann
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - G C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - J B Smilowitz
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - D Trask
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - M Weiss
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - S Weber
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - D Abbott
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - P Varley
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - H Neuman
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - J D Maloney
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Madison, WI
| | - J L Hinshaw
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - B A Morris
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | - E Merfeld
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - S P Howard
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - K A Bradley
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - A M Baschnagel
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - M F Bassetti
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - D W Hennessey
- Department of Orthopedic and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Z Morris
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI
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Blitzer GC, Glazer T, Gustafson S, Burr A, Mattison R, Ganz O, Meyers R, McDowell K, Weiss M, Nickel KP, Chappell RJ, Pulia N, Gallipeau J, Kimple RJ. A Pilot, First in Human Study of Autologous IFN-Gamma Stimulated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Treatment of Radiation-Induced Xerostomia. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:S152. [PMID: 37784385 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) There are no existing effective treatments for radiation-induced xerostomia (RIX), a common side effect of head and neck radiation. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) exhibit regenerative effects in multiple tissues and may represent an effective cell therapy for the treatment of RIX. Here we present the primary safety and secondary efficacy endpoints of a first-in-human pilot study of IFNγ-stimulated autologous bone marrow- derived MSCs [MSC(M)] for the treatment of RIX. MATERIALS/METHODS We conducted a single-center clinical trial investigating the safety and tolerability of autologous IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M). The study was conducted under an FDA-IND and approved by the local IRB. Patients underwent bone marrow aspiration, MSC(M) were then culture-expanded, stimulated with IFNγ, and cryopreserved. Banked IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) were thawed, allowed to recover, and then 10 × 106 MSC(M) were injected transcutaneously via ultrasound guidance into one submandibular gland. The primary objective was safety and tolerability determined by dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) defined as submandibular pain > 5 on a standard 10-point pain scale or any serious adverse event (SAE) within one month after injection. Secondary objectives included analysis of efficacy as measured by salivary quantification and using 3 validated quality of life instruments. Quantitative results are reported as mean and standard deviation (SD). RESULTS Six radiation-induced xerostomia patients with head and neck cancer who had completed radiation at least 2 years earlier were enrolled. The median age was 71 (61-74) and 5 (83%) patients were male. Five patients (83%) were treated with chemoradiation and one patient (17%) with radiation alone. The average dose of radiation to the injected submandibular gland was 59.9 Gy. Three patients (50%) reported a pain score of 1 after submandibular gland injection, all pain resolved within 4 days. No patients reported pain 1 month after injection, with no SAEs or other DLTs reported 1 month after injection. The analysis of secondary endpoints demonstrated a trend of increased salivary production. The mean unstimulated saliva was 0.13 mL/min (SD 0.17) at baseline and increased to 0.14 mL/min (SD 0.12) at 1 month after injection and 0.19 mL/min (SD 0.21) at 3-months. Quality of life surveys also showed a trend towards improvement. CONCLUSION Injection of autologous IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) into the submandibular gland of patients with RIX is safe and well tolerated. A trend towards an improvement in secondary endpoints of salivary quantity and quality of life was observed. This first-in-human pilot study provides support for further investigation into IFNγ-stimulated MSC(M) as an innovative, potentially curative, remedy to treat RIX. A phase I dose-escalation study injecting into bilateral submandibular glands is scheduled to begin accrual in the spring of 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - T Glazer
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | | | - A Burr
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | | | - O Ganz
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - R Meyers
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | | | - M Weiss
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI
| | | | - R J Chappell
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Statistics, Biostatistics, and Medical Informatics, Madison, WI
| | - N Pulia
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | | | - R J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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10
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Blitzer GC, Rogus‐Pulia NM, Paz C, Nickel KP, Cannaday VL, Kelm‐Nelson CA, Sudakaran S, Chappell RJ, Glazer T, Kimple RJ. Quantification of very late xerostomia in head and neck cancer patients after irradiation. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2022; 7:1018-1024. [PMID: 36000048 PMCID: PMC9392383 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC) can result in severe xerostomia, or the subjective feeling of dry mouth. Characterizing xerostomia is critical to designing future clinical trials investigating how to improve HNC patients' quality of life (QoL). Few studies have investigated the very late (>5 years post‐RT) effects of RT for HNC. We undertook preliminary studies quantifying very late xerostomia. Methods Six adults who underwent RT for HNC at least 5 years prior and reported xerostomia were enrolled. Five healthy adults without a self‐reported history of HNC or xerostomia were enrolled as controls. All participants completed three validated surveys to measure xerostomia‐related QoL. Salivary production rates were measured and compositional analysis of the saliva and oral microbiome was completed. Results The QoL survey scores for the HNC participants were significantly worse as compared to the control participants. The HNC participants produced less unstimulated saliva (p = .02) but not less stimulated saliva. The median salivary mucin significantly higher in HNC participants than in control participants (p = .02). There was no significant difference between the pH, amylase, or total protein. Microbiome analysis revealed alpha diversity to be significantly lower in the HNC participants. Conclusion In the survivors of HNC who suffer from late toxicities, multiple means of measuring toxicity may be useful. We found that in patients with radiation‐induced xerostomia over 5 years after therapy, not only were the QoL surveys significantly worse, as expected, but other measurements such as mucin and oral microbiome diversity were also significantly different. Level of evidence 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C. Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Nicole M. Rogus‐Pulia
- Department of Medicine University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
- Department of Surgery University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Cristina Paz
- Department of Human Oncology University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Kwangok P. Nickel
- Department of Human Oncology University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Vanessa L. Cannaday
- Department of Medicine University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
- Department of Surgery University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Cynthia A. Kelm‐Nelson
- Department of Surgery University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | | | - Richard J. Chappell
- Department of Biostatistics & Medical Informatics University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
- Department of Statistics University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Tiffany Glazer
- Department of Surgery University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
| | - Randall J. Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Madison Wisconsin USA
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Floberg JM, Blitzer GC, Yadav P. Use of stereotactic magnetic resonance-guided online adaptive radiation therapy for treatment of a pelvic recurrence of prostate cancer in a patient with an orthotopic neobladder. Adv Radiat Oncol 2022; 7:100958. [PMID: 35647410 PMCID: PMC9130090 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2022.100958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- John M. Floberg
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine; and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
- Corresponding author.
| | - Grace C. Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine; and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Poonam Yadav
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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12
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Blitzer GC, Rogus-Pulia NM, Mattison RJ, Varghese T, Ganz O, Chappell R, Galipeau J, McDowell KA, Meyers RO, Glazer TA, Kimple RJ. Marrow-Derived Autologous Stromal Cells for the Restoration of Salivary Hypofunction (MARSH): Study protocol for a phase 1 dose-escalation trial of patients with xerostomia after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:534-543. [PMID: 35183442 PMCID: PMC9038658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common side effect of head and neck radiation. Current treatment options for radiation-induced xerostomia are generally supportive in nature. Adult stem cells are the ultimate source for replenishment of salivary gland tissue. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) are a viable cell-based therapy for xerostomia. We have undertaken studies enabling U.S. Food and Drug Administration Investigational New Drug status, demonstrating the normal phenotype, intact functionality, and pro-growth secretome of interferon-γ (IFNγ)-stimulated BM-MSCs taken from patients with head and neck cancer who have undergone radiation ± chemotherapy. Here we present the protocol of MARSH, a first-in-human clinical trial of bone marrow-derived, IFNγ-activated BM-MSCs for the treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia. METHODS This single-center phase 1 dose-escalation with expansion cohort, non-placebo-controlled study will assess the safety and tolerability of BM-MSCs for the treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia in patients who had head and neck cancer. The phase 1 dose-escalation study will be a 3 + 3 design with staggered enrollment. A total of 21 to 30 subjects (9 to 18 in phase 1 study, 12 in expansion cohort) will be enrolled. The primary endpoint is determining the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of IFNγ-stimulated BM-MSCs to enable further studies on the efficacy of BM-MSCs. Patients' bone marrow will be aspirated, and BM-MSCs will be expanded, stimulated with IFNγ, and injected into the submandibular gland. The RP2D will be determined by dose-limiting toxicities occurring within 1 month of BM-MSC injection. Secondary outcomes of saliva amounts and composition, ultrasound of salivary glands, and quality of life surveys will be taken at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month visits. DISCUSSION Autotransplantation of IFNγ-stimulated BM-MSCs in salivary glands after radiation therapy or chemoradiation therapy may provide an innovative remedy to treat xerostomia and restore quality of life. This is the first therapy for radiation-induced xerostomia that may be curative. TRIAL REGISTRATION World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform: NCT04489732.
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Merfeld EC, Blitzer GC, Kuczmarska-Haas A, Pitt SC, Chino F, Le T, Allen-Rhoades WA, Cole S, Marshall AL, Carnes M, Jagsi R, Duma N. Women Oncologists' Perceptions and Factors Associated With Decisions to Pursue Academic vs Nonacademic Careers in Oncology. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2141344. [PMID: 34967880 PMCID: PMC8719237 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.41344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Women outnumber men in US medical school enrollment, but they represent less than 40% of academic oncology faculty. OBJECTIVE To identify the key factors associated with female oncologists' decision to pursue academic or nonacademic oncology practice and to characterize their perceptions about their current career. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cross-sectional survey study was distributed through email and social media to female physicians in academic and nonacademic oncology practice in the United States. The survey was open for 3 months, from August 1 to October 31, 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES No single primary study outcome was established because of the cross-sectional nature of the survey. Data were collected anonymously and analyzed using t tests for continuous variables and χ2 tests for categorical variables. RESULTS Among the 667 female respondents, 422 (63.2%) identified as academic oncologists and 245 (36.8%) identified as nonacademic oncologists. Approximately 25% of respondents reported that their spouse or partner (156 [23.5%]) and/or family (176 [26.4%]) extremely or moderately affected their decision to pursue academic practice. Academic oncologists perceived the biggest sacrifice of pursuing academics to be time with loved ones (181 [42.9%]). Nonacademic oncologists perceived the biggest sacrifice of pursuing academics to be pressure for academic promotion (102 [41.6%]). Respondents had different perceptions of how their gender affected their ability to obtain a chosen job, with 116 academic oncologists (27.6%) and 101 nonacademic oncologists (41.2%) reporting a positive or somewhat positive impact (P = .001). More than half of the women surveyed (54.6% academic oncologists [230]; 50.6% nonacademic oncologists [123]; P = .61) believed they were less likely to be promoted compared with male colleagues. Academic and nonacademic oncologists reported rarely or never having a sense of belonging in their work environment (33 [7.9%] and 5 [2.0%]; P < .001). Most respondents reported that they would choose the same career path again (301 academic oncologists [71.3%]; 168 nonacademic oncologists [68.6%]); however, 92 academic oncologists (21.9%) reported they were likely to pursue a career outside of academic oncology in the next 5 years. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This survey study found that a spouse or partner and/or family were factors in the career choice of both academic and nonacademic oncologists and that female gender was largely perceived to adversely affect job promotion. Given that more than 20% of female academic oncologists were considering leaving academia, gender inequality is at high risk of continuing if the culture is not addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C. Merfeld
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison
| | - Grace C. Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison
| | | | - Susan C. Pitt
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Trang Le
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison
| | | | - Suzanne Cole
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | | | - Molly Carnes
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Reshma Jagsi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Narjust Duma
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
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14
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Blitzer GC, Parekh AD, Chen S, Taparra K, Kahn JM, Fields EC, Stahl JM, Rosenberg SA, Buatti JM, Laucis AM, Wang Y, Mayhew DL, McDonald AM, Harari PM, Brower JV. Why an Increasing Number of Unmatched Residency Positions in Radiation Oncology? A Survey of Fourth-Year Medical Students. Adv Radiat Oncol 2021; 6:100743. [PMID: 34466713 PMCID: PMC8385400 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2021.100743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The number of US fourth-year medical students applying to radiation oncology has decreased during the past few years. We conducted a survey of fourth-year medical students to examine factors that may be influencing the decision to pursue radiation oncology. Methods and Materials An anonymous online survey was sent to medical students at 9 participating US medical schools. Results A total of 232 medical students completed the survey. Of the 153 students who stated they were never interested in radiation oncology, 77 (50%) reported never having been exposed to the specialty as their reason for not pursuing radiation oncology. The job market was the most commonly cited factor among students who said they were once interested in but ultimately chose not to pursue radiation oncology. Conversely, the recent low pass rates for board examinations and a perception of a lack of diversity within radiation oncology had the least influence. Conclusions Despite discussion of potential measures to address this disquieting trend, there have been minimal formal attempts to characterize and address potential causes of a decreasing interest in radiation oncology. This study's data are consistent with previous research regarding the trend of decreased medical student interest in radiation oncology and may be used as part of ongoing introspective assessment to inform future change within radiation oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Akash D Parekh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Shuai Chen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Kekoa Taparra
- Gundersen Lutheran Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin
| | - Jenna M Kahn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Emma C Fields
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - John M Stahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | - John M Buatti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Anna M Laucis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Yichu Wang
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - David L Mayhew
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew M McDonald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jeffrey V Brower
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.,Radiation Oncology Associates-New England, Manchester, New Hampshire
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15
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Blitzer GC, Bradley KA. Four Ways to Decrease Late Toxicity From Pelvic Radiation Therapy in Children and Young Adults. Pract Radiat Oncol 2021; 11:434-440. [PMID: 34274520 DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The use of curative-intent multimodality therapy with chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation results in late toxicities in almost two-thirds of patients with pediatric cancer. When pelvic radiation is used for pediatric malignancies such as rhabdomyosarcoma, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma, and Wilms tumor, the associated late toxicities can affect many normal tissues and may include growth asymmetries, cystitis, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. We describe 4 recommendations of how to prevent or minimize late toxicities from pelvic radiation and review the literature of these pediatric late toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, WI 53792.
| | - Kristin A Bradley
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, WI 53792
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16
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Brower JV, Blitzer GC, Vapiwala N, Harari PM. Declining Medical Student Interest in Radiation Oncology: Wake-Up Call With a Silver Lining? Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 110:274-277. [PMID: 33716119 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Brower
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin; Radiation Oncology Associates-New England, Manchester, New Hampshire.
| | - Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Neha Vapiwala
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
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17
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Blitzer GC, Wojcieszynski A, Abel EJ, Best S, Lee FT, Hinshaw JL, Wells S, Ziemlewicz TJ, Lubner MG, Alexander M, Yadav P, Bayouth JE, Floberg J, Cooley G, Harari PM, Bassetti MF. Combining Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Microwave Ablation Appears Safe and Feasible for Renal Cell Carcinoma in an Early Series. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2021; 19:e313-e318. [PMID: 34024743 DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Microwave (MW) ablation and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) are both used in treating inoperable renal cell carcinoma (RCC). MW ablation and SBRT have potentially complementary advantages and limitations. Combining SBRT and MW ablation may optimize tumor control and toxicity for patients with larger (> 5 cm) RCCs or those with vascular involvement. Seven patients with RCC were treated at our institution with combination of SBRT and MW ablation, median tumor size of 6.4 cm. Local control was 100% with a median follow-up of 15 months. Four patients experienced grade 2 nausea during SBRT. Three patients experienced toxicities after MW ablation, 2 with grade 1 hematuria and 1 with grade 3 retroperitoneal bleed/collecting system injury. Median eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) preceding and following SBRT and MW ablation was 69 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 68 mL/min/1.73 m2 (P = .19), respectively. In patients who are not surgical candidates, larger RCCs or those with vascular invasion are challenging to treat. Combination treatment with SBRT and MW ablation may balance the risks and benefits of both therapies and demonstrates high local control in our series. MW ablation and SBRT have potentially complementary advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI.
| | | | - E Jason Abel
- Department of Urology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Sara Best
- Department of Urology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Fred T Lee
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - J Louis Hinshaw
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Shane Wells
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Timothy J Ziemlewicz
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Meghan G Lubner
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Marci Alexander
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Poonam Yadav
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - John E Bayouth
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - John Floberg
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Greg Cooley
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
| | - Michael F Bassetti
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Madison, WI
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Blitzer GC, Rosenberg SA, Anderson BM, McCulloch TM, Wieland AM, Hartig GK, Bruce JY, Witek ME, Kimple RJ, Harari PM. Results From 10 Years of a Free Oral Cancer Screening Clinic at a Major Academic Health Center. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2018; 102:146-148. [PMID: 29980415 PMCID: PMC6089656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Stephen A Rosenberg
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Bethany M Anderson
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Timothy M McCulloch
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Aaron M Wieland
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Gregory K Hartig
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Justine Y Bruce
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Matthew E Witek
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
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Hammersley JA, Partridge SC, Blitzer GC, Deitch S, Rahbar H. Management of high-risk breast lesions found on mammogram or ultrasound: the value of contrast-enhanced MRI to exclude malignancy. Clin Imaging 2018; 49:174-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Jing W, Gershan JA, Blitzer GC, Palen K, Weber J, McOlash L, Riese M, Johnson BD. Adoptive cell therapy using PD-1 + myeloma-reactive T cells eliminates established myeloma in mice. J Immunother Cancer 2017. [PMID: 28642819 PMCID: PMC5477110 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-017-0256-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) with cancer antigen-reactive T cells following lymphodepletive pre-conditioning has emerged as a potentially curative therapy for patients with advanced cancers. However, identification and enrichment of appropriate T cell subsets for cancer eradication remains a major challenge for hematologic cancers. Methods PD-1+ and PD-1− T cell subsets from myeloma-bearing mice were sorted and analyzed for myeloma reactivity in vitro. In addition, the T cells were activated and expanded in culture and given to syngeneic myeloma-bearing mice as ACT. Results Myeloma-reactive T cells were enriched in the PD-1+ cell subset. Similar results were also observed in a mouse AML model. PD-1+ T cells from myeloma-bearing mice were found to be functional, they could be activated and expanded ex vivo, and they maintained their anti-myeloma reactivity after expansion. Adoptive transfer of ex vivo-expanded PD-1+ T cells together with a PD-L1 blocking antibody eliminated established myeloma in Rag-deficient mice. Both CD8 and CD4 T cell subsets were important for eradicating myeloma. Adoptively transferred PD-1+ T cells persisted in recipient mice and were able to mount an adaptive memory immune response. Conclusions These results demonstrate that PD-1 is a biomarker for functional myeloma-specific T cells, and that activated and expanded PD-1+ T cells can be effective as ACT for myeloma. Furthermore, this strategy could be useful for treating other hematologic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Jing
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Jill A Gershan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Grace C Blitzer
- Medical Student, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Katie Palen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - James Weber
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Laura McOlash
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Matthew Riese
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
| | - Bryon D Johnson
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
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Stein AP, Swick AD, Smith MA, Blitzer GC, Yang RZ, Saha S, Harari PM, Lambert PF, Liu CZ, Kimple RJ. Xenograft assessment of predictive biomarkers for standard head and neck cancer therapies. Cancer Med 2015; 4:699-712. [PMID: 25619980 PMCID: PMC4430263 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains a challenging cancer to treat with overall 5-year survival on the order of 50–60%. Therefore, predictive biomarkers for this disease would be valuable to provide more effective and individualized therapeutic approaches for these patients. While prognostic biomarkers such as p16 expression correlate with outcome; to date, no predictive biomarkers have been clinically validated for HNSCC. We generated xenografts in immunocompromised mice from six established HNSCC cell lines and evaluated response to cisplatin, cetuximab, and radiation. Tissue microarrays were constructed from pre- and posttreatment tumor samples derived from each xenograft experiment. Quantitative immunohistochemistry was performed using a semiautomated imaging and analysis platform to determine the relative expression of five potential predictive biomarkers: epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), phospho-EGFR, phospho-Akt, phospho-ERK, and excision repair cross-complementation group 1 (ERCC1). Biomarker levels were compared between xenografts that were sensitive versus resistant to a specific therapy utilizing a two-sample t-test with equal standard deviations. Indeed the xenografts displayed heterogeneous responses to each treatment, and we linked a number of baseline biomarker levels to response. This included low ERCC1 being associated with cisplatin sensitivity, low phospho-Akt correlated with cetuximab sensitivity, and high total EGFR was related to radiation resistance. Overall, we developed a systematic approach to identifying predictive biomarkers and demonstrated several connections between biomarker levels and treatment response. Despite these promising initial results, this work requires additional preclinical validation, likely involving the use of patient-derived xenografts, prior to moving into the clinical realm for confirmation among patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Stein
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Adam D Swick
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Molly A Smith
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Robert Z Yang
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Sandeep Saha
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Paul F Lambert
- Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Cheng Z Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
| | - Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706
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Law ADT, Blitzer GC, Smith MA, Armstrong EA, Kimple RJ. Abstract 4243: EGFR inhibition causes growth delay and induces apoptosis in HPV-positive head and neck cancer. Cancer Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2014-4243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), is approved for use in the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC). However, studies of cetuximab were performed with HPV-negative cells, clinical trials were performed without regard to HPV status, and current studies on HPV+ HNC treatment with cetuximab are contradicting. This study was performed to determine whether HPV+ HNC responds to cetuximab and to examine the mechanisms through which cetuximab affects HPV+ HNC.
Methods: Four HPV+ cell lines were assessed for EGFR expression by immunoblot. Sensitivity to cetuximab was tested by examining cell proliferation and colony formation. Apoptosis was measured by caspase activation, flow cytometry for Annexin V, and immunoblot. Cell cycle was assessed by immunoblot and flow cytometry for propidium iodide stained cells. HPV+ HNC subcutaneous flank cell line xenografts and patient-derived xenografts were placed in immunocompromised mice treated with cetuximab, tumor size was measured twice weekly.
Results: Cetuximab treatment resulted in significant delay in cell proliferation and significant decrease in colony formation. Cetuximab caused an increase in apoptosis in all methods measured. Also, as previously seen in HPV- cell lines, cetuximab resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest. Using both cell line and patient-derived xenograft models of HPV+ HNCs, cetuximab resulted in significant tumor growth delay (median time to tumor quadrupling: 15 vs. 24 days, and 42 vs. 89 days, respectively).
Conclusions: Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition by cetuximab is effective in slowing proliferation and inducing apoptosis in HPV+ HNC. The proposed mechanism of action appears to be similar to that shown in HPV- HNC. These results suggest that cetuximab may play a role in the management of patients with HPV+ HNC.
Citation Format: Alexandra D. Torres Law, Grace C. Blitzer, Molly A. Smith, Eric A. Armstrong, Randall J. Kimple. EGFR inhibition causes growth delay and induces apoptosis in HPV-positive head and neck cancer. [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 4243. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4243
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Blitzer GC, Smith MA, Harris SL, Kimple RJ. Review of the clinical and biologic aspects of human papillomavirus-positive squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2014; 88:761-70. [PMID: 24606845 PMCID: PMC3990872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2013.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV), a known etiology of a subset of head-and-neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNCs), causes numerous alterations in normal cellular functions. This article reviews the biology, detection, and treatment of HPV-positive HNC. The role of HPV oncoproteins in tumor development, the natural history of HPV infection, and risk factors for and prevention of transmission of oral HPV are considered. Commonly used methods for detecting HPV infection, including limitations of these methods, are discussed to aid the practicing clinician in using these tests in their clinical practice. Clinical characteristics of HPV-positive HNC, including potential explanations for the improved outcomes seen in patients with HPV-positive HNC, are assessed. Ongoing clinical trials specific for patients with HPV-positive HNC are described, and areas in need of additional research are summarized. Until the results of ongoing trials are known, treatment of HPV-positive HNC should not differ in clinical practice from treatment of similar non-HPV related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Molly A Smith
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | | | - Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin; University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.
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Kimple RJ, Smith MA, Blitzer GC, Torres AD, Martin JA, Yang RZ, Peet CR, Lorenz LD, Nickel KP, Klingelhutz AJ, Lambert PF, Harari PM. Enhanced radiation sensitivity in HPV-positive head and neck cancer. Cancer Res 2013; 73:4791-800. [PMID: 23749640 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Patients with human papillomavirus (HPV+)-associated head and neck cancer (HNC) show significantly improved survival outcome compared with those with HPV-negative (HPV-) tumors. Published data examining this difference offers conflicting results to date. We systematically investigated the radiation sensitivity of all available validated HPV+ HNC cell lines and a series of HPV- HNC cell lines using in vitro and in vivo techniques. HPV+ HNCs exhibited greater intrinsic radiation sensitivity (average SF2 HPV-: 0.59 vs. HPV+: 0.22; P < 0.0001), corresponding with a prolonged G2-M cell-cycle arrest and increased apoptosis following radiation exposure (percent change 0% vs. 85%; P = 0.002). A genome-wide microarray was used to compare gene expression 24 hours following radiation between HPV+ and HPV- cell lines. Multiple genes in TP53 pathway were upregulated in HPV+ cells (Z score 4.90), including a 4.6-fold increase in TP53 (P < 0.0001). Using immortalized human tonsillar epithelial (HTE) cells, increased radiation sensitivity was seen in cell expressing HPV-16 E6 despite the effect of E6 to degrade p53. This suggested that low levels of normally functioning p53 in HPV+ HNC cells could be activated by radiation, leading to cell death. Consistent with this, more complete knockdown of TP53 by siRNA resulted in radiation resistance. These results provide clear evidence, and a supporting mechanism, for increased radiation sensitivity in HPV+ HNC relative to HPV- HNC. This issue is under active investigation in a series of clinical trials attempting to de-escalate radiation (and chemotherapy) in selected patients with HPV+ HNC in light of their favorable overall survival outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center, 3107 WIMR, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Blitzer GC, Smith MA, Torres AD, Armstrong EA, Harari PM, Lambert PF, Kimple RJ. Abstract 5474: Epidermal growth factor inhibition of HPV positive head and neck cancer cells and primary tumorgrafts results in significant growth inhibition mediated by apoptosis. Cancer Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2013-5474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), is approved for use in the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC). One recent study (SPECTRUM) suggested that patient with recurrent or metastatic HPV+ HNC do not benefit from treatment with EGFR targeted therapy. However, most studies of EGFR inhibition have been performed with HPV-negative cells and clinical trials have been performed without regard to HPV status. We performed this study to determine whether HPV+ HNC cells and patient-derived tumorgrafts respond to cetuximab and to examine the mechanisms through which cetuximab affects HPV+ HNC.
Methods: Four HPV+ cell lines (UD-SCC2, UM-SCC47, UPCI-SCC90, 93-VU-147T) were assessed for EGFR expression by western blot. Sensitivity to cetuximab was tested by assessing cell density 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after cetuximab treatment and by assessing colony formation 2 weeks after plating. Apoptosis was measured by caspase activation, flow cytometry for Annexin V and propidium iodide staining, and immunoblot. Cell cycle was assessed by immunoblot for cyclin D1, cyclin B1, and p27Kip-1 and confirmed by flow cytometry for propidium iodide stained cells. Subcutaneous flank xenografts and tumorgrafts were performed in Hsd:athymic Nude-Foxn1nu female mice treated with intraperitoneal cetuximab (0.2mg/mouse) delivered twice weekly for 2 weeks. Time to tumor quadrupling from baseline was assessed by Kaplan-Meier method.
Results: Significant variation in EGFR expression was seen in HPV+ cells. Cetuximab treatment resulted in significant delay in cell proliferation (p<0.005 for all lines) and decrease in colony formation (p<0.04 for all lines). In these cell lines, cetuximab caused an increase in apoptosis as measured by caspase activity, Bax activation, and Annexin V labeling. In addition, as previously seen in HPV- cell lines, cetuximab increased p27Kip-1 and decreased cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 coinciding with in a G1 cell cycle arrest. Using both a cell line xenograft model and a direct-from-patient tumorgraft model of HPV+ HNCs, cetuximab resulted in significant tumor growth delay (median time to tumor quadrupling: 15 vs. 24 days, p=0.02; and 42 vs. 89 days, p=0.0001, respectively).
Conclusions: Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition by cetuximab appears to be effective in slowing proliferation and inducing apoptosis in HPV+ HNC. The proposed mechanism of action appears to be similar to that shown over a decade ago in HPV- HNC. These results suggest that cetuximab may play a role in the management of patients with HPV+ HNC.
Citation Format: Grace C. Blitzer, Molly A. Smith, Alexandra D. Torres, Eric A. Armstrong, Paul M. Harari, Paul F. Lambert, Randall J. Kimple. Epidermal growth factor inhibition of HPV positive head and neck cancer cells and primary tumorgrafts results in significant growth inhibition mediated by apoptosis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5474. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-5474
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Smith MA, Blitzer GC, Torres AD, Armstrong EA, Lambert PF, Harari PM, Kimple RJ. Abstract 73: Preclinical evaluation of chemoradiation with cetuximab HPV-positive head and neck cancer suggests significant radiosensitization. Cancer Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2013-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
PURPOSE: Whether cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody to the epidermal growth factor receptor, should be combined with radiation in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) positive locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) is not known. Currently available data are inadequate to address this important therapeutic question. We sought to examine the ability of cetuximab to act as a radiosensitizer and to examine the mechanism of action of this combination in a model system of HPV+ HNC.
METHODS: Four cell lines (UD-SCC2, UM-SCC47, UPCI-SCC90, 93-VU-147T) validated for HPV expression were used for all assays. Subcutaneous flank xenografts were performed in Hsd:athymic Nude-Foxn1nu female mice treated with intraperitoneal cetuximab (0.2mg/mouse) or flank radiation (2 Gy/fraction) delivered twice weekly for 2 weeks. Time to tumor quadrupling from baseline was assessed by Kaplan-Meier method. Flow cytometry was used to assess apoptosis by Annexin V staining and cell cycle distribution by propidium iodide staining.
RESULTS: While there was minimal in vitro radiosensitization after treatment with cetuximab (similar to that seen in HPV-negative HNC), cetuximab + radiation resulted in a significant increase in time to tumor quadrupling compared to cetuximab alone (p=0.001) or radiation alone (p<0.0001) in HPV+ HNC xenografts. Increased apoptosis was seen in cetuximab and radiation treated cells. Analysis of cell cycle distribution 24 hours after drug treatment showed that cetuximab induced a modest G1 cell cycle arrest when given prior to radiation, but that 24 hours after combined therapy, a significant G2 arrest was present.
CONCLUSIONS: Using HPV+ HNC cell lines, radiation and cetuximab appear to be beneficial compared to either treatment alone. This combination, currently undergoing study in randomized clinical trial is being further evaluated in a direct from patient tumorgraft model of HPV+ HNC to further understand predictors of response.
Citation Format: Molly A. Smith, Grace C. Blitzer, Alexandra D. Torres, Eric A. Armstrong, Paul F. Lambert, Paul M. Harari, Randall J. Kimple. Preclinical evaluation of chemoradiation with cetuximab HPV-positive head and neck cancer suggests significant radiosensitization. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 73. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-73
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Kimple RJ, Smith MA, Blitzer GC, Huang H, Torres AD. Growth inhibition and radiosensitization of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive head and neck cancer (HNC) by epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition is mediated by apoptosis. FASEB J 2013. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.1105.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Kimple RJ, Harari PM, Torres AD, Yang RZ, Soriano BJ, Yu M, Armstrong EA, Blitzer GC, Smith MA, Lorenz LD, Lee D, Yang DT, McCulloch TM, Hartig GK, Lambert PF. Development and characterization of HPV-positive and HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma tumorgrafts. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 19:855-64. [PMID: 23251001 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-2746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a clinically relevant model system to study head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), we have established and characterized a direct-from-patient tumorgraft model of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and HPV-negative cancers. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent HNSCC were consented for donation of tumor specimens. Surgically obtained tissue was implanted subcutaneously into immunodeficient mice. During subsequent passages, both formalin-fixed/paraffin-embedded as well as flash-frozen tissues were harvested. Tumors were analyzed for a variety of relevant tumor markers. Tumor growth rates and response to radiation, cisplatin, or cetuximab were assessed and early passage cell strains were developed for rapid testing of drug sensitivity. RESULTS Tumorgrafts have been established in 22 of 26 patients to date. Significant diversity in tumorgraft tumor differentiation was observed with good agreement in degree of differentiation between patient tumor and tumorgraft (Kappa 0.72). Six tumorgrafts were HPV-positive on the basis of p16 staining. A strong inverse correlation between tumorgraft p16 and p53 or Rb was identified (Spearman correlations P = 0.085 and P = 0.002, respectively). Significant growth inhibition of representative tumorgrafts was shown with cisplatin, cetuximab, or radiation treatment delivered over a two-week period. Early passage cell strains showed high consistency in response to cancer therapy between tumorgraft and cell strain. CONCLUSIONS We have established a robust human tumorgraft model system for investigating HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC. These tumorgrafts show strong correlation with the original tumor specimens and provide a powerful resource for investigating mechanisms of therapeutic response as well as preclinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall J Kimple
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Kimple RJ, Blitzer GC, Torres AD, Yang RZ, Lorenz LD, Armstrong EA, Soriano BJ, Lambert PF, Harari PM. Abstract 2352: Molecular profiles of head and neck cancer tumorgrafts. Cancer Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2012-2352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: We have developed a primary tumorgraft system of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck with relevance for investigating mechanisms of therapeutic resistance, understanding differential responses to standard therapy in HPV-positive and HPV-negative cancers, and testing novel therapeutics. To better understand the power, limitations and relevance of our tumorgraft system, we have initiated molecular characterization of these tumors. Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent HNSCC were consented for donation of tumor at the time of surgery. Tumor tissue was obtained, washed in antibiotic rich media, manually disaggregated, and subcutaneously implanted into mice (NOD.Cg-Prkdc scid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ) for initial tumorgraft establishment. Subsequent mouse-to-mouse passages were performed and formalin-fixed/paraffin embedded as well as flash frozen tissue was harvested for subsequent molecular analyses. Expression of p16(Ink4a), p53, pRB, and EGFR was assessed by immunohistochemistry(IHC). HPV status and subtype was assessed using MY09/MY11 and GP5/GP6 degenerate nested polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Transcriptionally active HPV infection was assessed by qRT-PCR for the HPV oncogenes E6 and E7. Mutation status of p53 was assessed by PCR-based exon amplification and Sanger sequencing. Results: To date, thirty primary tumorgrafts have been established with robust growth in eighteen (60%). p16(INK4A) expression was identified in approximately one-third. The majority of HPV-positive tumorgrafts contained HPV-16 and were transcriptionally active by mRNA expression profiling. HPV-positive tumors showed low p53 and RB expression by IHC. As anticipated, mutations in p53 were seen more frequently in HPV-negative tumors. Conclusions: These primary human tumorgrafts represent a diverse range of head and neck cancers. Both HPV-positive tumors and HPV-negative tumors have been successfully propagated with a diverse range of molecular characteristics. These primary tumorgrafts will provide a valuable platform for testing novel therapeutics as well as radiation and chemotherapy response profiles.
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 2352. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2352
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Kimple RJ, Torres AD, Blitzer GC, Smith MA, Armstrong EA, Lambert PF, Harari PM. Enhanced apoptosis and altered DNA repair underlie improved outcomes in HPV‐positive head and neck cancer. FASEB J 2012. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.26.1_supplement.537.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Grace C Blitzer
- Department of Human OncologyUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Molly A Smith
- Department of Human OncologyUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | | | | | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human OncologyUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
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