The biocide triclosan as a potential developmental disruptor in Mytilus early larvae

The broadly utilized biocide triclosan (TCS) is continuously discharged in water compartments worldwide, where it is detected at concentrations of ng-µg/L. Given its lipophilicity and bioaccumulation, TCS is considered potentially harmful to human and environmental health and also as a potential endocrine disruptor (ED) in different species. In aquatic organisms, TCS can induce a variety of effects: however, little information is available on its possible impact on invertebrate development. Early larval stages of the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis have been shown to be sensitive to environmental concentrations of a number of emerging contaminants, including EDs. In this work, the effects of TCS were first evaluated in the 48 h larval assay in a wide concentration range (0.001-1,000 μg/L). TCS significantly affected normal development of D-veligers (LOEC = 0.1 μg/L; EC50 = 236.1 μg/L). At selected concentrations, the mechanism of action of TCS was investigated. TCS modulated transcription of different genes involved in shell mineralization, endocrine signaling, ceramide metabolism, and biotransformation, depending on larval stage (24 and 48 h post-fertilization-hpf) and concentration (1 and 10 μg/L). At 48 hpf and 10 μg/L TCS, calcein staining revealed alterations in CaCO3 deposition, and polarized light microscopy showed the absence of shell birefringence due to the mineralized phase. Observations by scanning electron microscopy highlighted a variety of defects in shell formation from concentrations as low as 0.1 μg/L. The results indicate that TCS, at environmental exposure levels, can act as a developmental disruptor in early mussel larvae mainly by interfering with the processes of biomineralization.

Tetrabromobisphenol A acts a neurodevelopmental disruptor in early larval stages of Mytilus galloprovincialis

Tetrabromobisphenol A-TBBPA, a widely used brominated flame retardant detected in aquatic environments, is considered a potential endocrine disruptor-ED for its reproductive/developmental effects in vertebrates. In aquatic invertebrates, the modes of action of most EDs are largely unknown, due to partial knowledge of the mechanisms controlling neuroendocrine functions. In the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis, TBBPA has been previously shown to affect larval development in the 48 h larval toxicity assay at environmental concentrations. In this work, the effects of TBBPA were further investigated at different times post-fertilization. TBBPA, from 1 μg/L, affected shell biogenesis at 48 hours post fertilization-hpf, as shown by phenotypic and SEM analysis. The mechanisms of action of TBBPA were investigated at concentrations of the same order of magnitude as those found in highly polluted coastal areas (10 μg/L). At 28-32 hpf, TBBPA significantly affected deposition of both the organic matrix and CaCO₃ in the shell. TBBPA also altered expression of shell-related genes from 24 to 48 hpf, in particular of tyrosinase, a key enzyme in shell matrix remodeling. At earlier stages (24 hpf), TBBPA affected the development of dopaminergic, serotoninergic and GABAergic systems, as shown by in situ hybridization-ISH and immunocytochemistry. These data contribute draw adverse outcome pathways-AOPs, where TBBPA affects the synthesis of neutrotransmitters involved in key events (neurodevelopment and shell biogenesis), resulting in phenotypic changes on individuals (delayed or arrested development) that might lead to detrimental consequences on populations.

Phenotypical and molecular changes induced by carbamazepine and propranolol on larval stages of Mytilus galloprovincialis

The possible impact of carbamazepine (CBZ) and propranolol (PROP), two widespread pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment, were investigated on morphology and gene transcription of early larvae of Mytilus galloprovincialis. Pharmaceuticals were first tested in a wide concentration range (from 0.01 to 1000 μg/L) through the 48-hpf embryotoxicity assay. The results showed that both compounds significantly affected embryo development from environmental concentrations. Although similar EC₅₀ were obtained, (≅ 1 μg/L) CBZ induced a progressive increase in embryo malformations, whereas PROP apparently showed greater impacts in terms of arrested development and embryo mortality at higher concentrations (>10 μg/L). Transcriptional analyses of 17 genes involved in different physiological functions in mussels and/or in their response to environmental contaminants, were performed at 24 and 48 h pf at two selected concentrations of CBZ and PROP (0.01 and 1 μg/L). Both compounds induced down-regulation of shell-specific and neuroendocrine related transcripts, while distinct effects were observed on antioxidant, lysosomal, and immune-related transcripts, also depending on the larval stage investigated. The results demonstrate that CBZ and PROP can affect development and gene transcription in mussel early larvae at environmental concentrations.

P11.24 CR13626, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor crossing the blood brain barrier, reduces tumour growth and prolongs survival in a mouse model of glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant primary brain cancer. Several mutations and alterations of key cellular pathways including tyrosine kinases (TKs) are involved in GBM etiopathogenesis. Currently there is no cure for GBM. Tumour heterogeneity and the presence of the blood brain barrier (BBB), with efflux transporters, are some of the causes of failure of novel therapeutic agents. Thus, appropriate target selectivity and pharmacokinetics (including brain penetration) are critical issues for the generation of potential drug candidates. The main in-vitro and in-vivo properties and antitumour activity of CR13626, a novel brain penetrant TK inhibitor, are presented.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

CR13626 inhibitory activity against a panel of 173 kinases was assessed. The effect on cellular proliferation was verified in different 2D human glioblastoma cell lines (U87MG, U373, U87MG vIII) and in a U87MG 3D spheroid model by ViaCount assays. The in-vivo antitumour activity was determined in a mouse model of glioblastoma based on the orthotopic injection of U87MG-Luciferase GBM cells in nude mice: oral treatment started on day 9 post-implantation and continued for 10 days (50 mg/kg/daily). Tumour progression was evaluated through the measurement of bioluminescence (BLI) at the end of dosing (day 19) and during follow-up (day 26–33). Survival was also monitored. The pharmacokinetics and brain exposure of CR13626 were assessed by LC/MS/MS in plasma and brain homogenate tissues of CD1 and tumour-bearing nude mice.

RESULTS

CR13626 potently inhibited FYN, YES, KDR and EGFR kinases, relevant for GBM development, with IC50 values of 69 nM, 3.6 nM, 82 nM and 6 nM, respectively. The compound reduced the proliferation of different human glioblastoma cell lines (GI50 1–3 µM). In CD1 mice, CR13626 had a good oral bioavailability (72%) and brain penetration (brain/plasma ratio of 1.4). In-vivo BLI analysis indicated a time-dependent reduction of tumour growth, reaching 60% on the last BLI evaluation 33 days post-implantation (i.e. 15 days after the end of dosing). Tumour growth inhibition translated into an increase of 25% of the median survival time of animals treated with CR13626 compared to the vehicle group (p<0.05). The observed antitumour effects agreed with the exposure of tumour-bearing mice to CR13626, which was above the TKs in-vitro IC50 values.

CONCLUSION

The combined abilities of CR13626 to inhibit the activity of TKs involved in GBM development, to cross the BBB, and to reduce tumour growth in-vivo leading to increased survival, warrant its further development as a drug candidate in GBM.

In vivo immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of nanoceria (nCeO2) in the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis

Cerium nanoparticles (nCeO₂) are increasingly utilized in a wide variety of industrial, environmental and biomedical applications, and are therefore expected to be released in the aquatic environment. Due to its peculiar redox properties, nCeO₂ may present unique hazards to environmental and human health. Previous data showed that in the hemocytes of the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis, in vitro exposure to a particular type of nCeO₂ (9 nm, characterized by negative ζ-potential, high H₂O₂ scavenging capacity and Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ surface ratio) reduced basal ROS production, lysosomal membrane stability and phagocytic activity in the presence of hemolymph serum; the effects observed were partly ascribed to the formation of a SOD-protein corona in the hemolymph. In this work, the in vivo effects of this type of nCeO₂ were investigated in mussels exposed to 100 μg/L nCeO₂ for 96 h; several lysosomal, immune, inflammatory and antioxidant biomarkers were measured at cellular (hemocytes) and tissue (gills, digestive gland) level. Molecular responses were evaluated in hemocytes and digestive gland by determining expression of 11 selected genes related to known biological functions. The results show specific immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of nCeO₂ at different levels of biological organization in the absence of Cerium tissue accumulation. These data further support the redox mechanisms at the basis of the physiological effects of nCeO₂. Finally, in order to evaluate the possible impact at the whole organism level, the effects of nCeO₂ were evaluated in the 48 h embryotoxicity assay in a wide concentration range. However, nCeO₂ exposure resulted in a small reduction in normal embryo development. Overall, the results demonstrate that in mussels nCeO₂ can selectively modulate different physiological processes at different levels of biological organization.

Responses of Mytilus galloprovincialis to challenge with the emerging marine pathogen Vibrio coralliilyticus

Vibrio coralliilyticus has emerged as a coral pathogen of concern throughout the Indo-Pacific reef. The interest towards understanding its ecology and pathogenic potential has increased since V. coralliilyticus was shown to be strongly virulent also for other species; in particular, it represents a serious threat for bivalve aquaculture, being one of the most important emerging pathogen responsible for oyster larval mortalities worldwide. V. coralliilyticus has a tightly regulated temperature-dependent virulence and it has been related to mass mortalities events of benthic invertebrates also in the temperate northwestern Mediterranean Sea. However, no data are available on the effects of V. coralliilyticus in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, the most abundant aquacultured species in this area. In this work, responses of M. galloprovincialis to challenge with V. coralliilyticus (ATCC BAA-450) were investigated. In vitro, short term responses of mussel hemocytes were evaluated in terms of lysosomal membrane stability, bactericidal activity, lysozyme release, ROS and NO production, and ultrastructural changes, evaluated by TEM. In vivo, hemolymph parameters were measured in mussels challenged with V. coralliilyticus at 24h p.i. Moreover, the effects of V. coralliilyticus on mussel early embryo development (at 48 hpf) were evaluated. The results show that both in vitro and in vivo, mussels were unable to activate immune response towards V. coralliilyticus, and that challenge mainly induced lysosomal stress in the hemocytes. Moreover, V. coralliilyticus showed a strong and concentration-dependent embryotoxicity. Overall, the results indicate that, although M. galloprovincialis is considered a resistant species to vibrio infections, the emerging pathogen V. coralliilyticus can represent a potential threat to mussel aquaculture.

Diclofenac affects early embryo development in the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis

Diclofenac-DCF, one of the most widely prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is globally detected in environmental compartments. Due to its occurrence in freshwater and potential impact on aquatic organisms, it has been added to the watch list of chemicals in the EU Water Directive; consequently, research on the impact of DCF in model aquatic organisms has great regulatory implications towards ecosystem health. DCF is also detected in coastal waters at concentrations from ng/L to 1 μg/L, as well as in marine organisms, such as the mussel Mytilus. Increasing evidence indicates that environmental concentrations of DCF have multiple impacts in adult mussels. Moreover, in M. galloprovincialis, DCF has been shown to affect early embryo development. The developmental effects of DCF in mussels were further investigated. DFC (1 and 10 μg/L) was added at different times post-fertilization (30 min and 24 hpf) and the effects were compared in the 48 hpf embryotoxicity assay. Shell mineralization and morphology were investigated by polarized light microscopy, X-Ray Spectrometry-XRD and Scanning Electron Microscopy-SEM. Transcriptional profiles of 12 selected genes physiologically regulated across early embryo development were assessed at 24 and 48 hpf. DCF induced shell malformations, irrespectively of concentration and time of exposure. DCF phenotypes were characterized by convex hinges, undulated edges, fractured shells. However, no changes in biomineralization were observed. DCF affected gene transcription at both times pf, in particular at 1 μg/L. The most affected genes were those involved in early shell formation (CS, CA, EP) and biotransformation (ABCB, GST). The results confirm that Mytilus early development represents a significant target for environmental concentrations of DCF. These data underline how the standard embryotoxicity assay, in combination with a structural and transcriptomic approach, represents a powerful tool for evaluating the early impact of pharmaceuticals on mussel embryos, and identification of the possible underlying mechanisms of action.

Kinetic enantioselectivity of a protonated bis(diamido)-bridged basket resorcin[4]arene towards alanine peptides

Efficient enantiodiscrimination of some alanine-containing di- and tri-peptides by using chiral protonated bis(diamido)-bridged basket resorcin[4]arenes depends on several factors, including the basicity of the amino acid residues at the C- and N-termini of the peptide.

Impact of cationic polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NH2) on early embryo development of Mytilus galloprovincialis: Effects on shell formation

The potential release of nanoparticles (NPs) into aquatic environments represents a growing concern for their possible impact on aquatic organisms. In this light, exposure studies during early life stages, which can be highly sensitive to environmental perturbations, would greatly help identifying potential adverse effects of NPs. Although in the marine bivalve Mytilus spp. the effects of different types of NPs have been widely investigated, little is known on the effects of NPs on the developing embryo. In M. galloprovincialis, emerging contaminants were shown to affect gene expression profiles during early embryo development (from trocophorae-24 hpf to D-veligers-48 hpf). In this work, the effects of amino-modified polystyrene NPs (PS-NH₂) on mussel embryos were investigated. PS-NH₂ affected the development of normal D-shaped larvae at 48 hpf (EC₅₀ = 0.142 mg/L). Higher concentrations (5-20 mg/L) resulted in high embryotoxicity/developmental arrest. At concentrations ≅ EC₅₀, PS-NH₂ affected shell formation, as shown by optical and polarized light microscopy. In these conditions, transcription of 12 genes involved in different biological processes were evaluated. PS-NH₂ induced dysregulation of transcription of genes involved in early shell formation (Chitin synthase, Carbonic anhydrase, Extrapallial Protein) at both 24 and 48 hpf. Decreased mRNA levels for ABC transporter p-glycoprotein-ABCB and Lysozyme were also observed at 48 hpf. SEM observations confirmed developmental toxicity at higher concentrations (5 mg/L). These data underline the sensitivity of Mytilus early embryos to PS-NH₂ and support the hypothesis that calcifying larvae of marine species are particularly vulnerable to abiotic stressors, including exposure to selected types of NPs.

Adverse effects of the SSRI antidepressant sertraline on early life stages of marine invertebrates

Widespread contamination of coastal environments by emerging compounds includes low concentrations of pharmaceuticals. These pollutants are not currently incorporated in monitoring programs despite their effects on non-target organisms are very little documented. Among the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, sertraline (SRT) is one of the most prescribed globally. In this work, earlier life stages of Amphibalanus amphitrite, Brachionus plicatilis and Mytilus galloprovincialis were exposed to environmental concentrations of SRT in order to study both sub-lethal and lethal responses in 24/48 h-tests. Low concentrations of SRT altered significantly swimming behavior in A. amphitrite and B. plicatilis giving 48 h-EC₅₀ (μg/L) of 113.88 and 282.23, respectively whereas higher values were observed for mortality and immobilization. EC₅₀ embryotoxicity with M. galloprovincialis was 206.80 μg/L. This work add new data about SRT ecotoxicity on marine invertebrates and confirms the applicability of behavioral endpoints to evaluate the environmental impact of antidepressants in marine organisms.

Seasonal variability of different biomarkers in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) farmed at different sites of the Gulf of La Spezia, Ligurian sea, Italy

Mussels (Mytilus spp.) are worldwide utilized in marine biomonitoring by a multi-biomarker approach. However, for a correct interpretation of different biomarker responses, information is needed on their natural seasonal variability due to environmental/physiological factors. In this work, the seasonal variations of different biomarkers were investigated in M. galloprovincialis from 4 different sites from the gulf of La Spezia (Ligurian sea, Italy), an intensive rearing area in the north-western Mediterranean near La Spezia harbor, an important commercial and touristic port. Lysosomal membrane stability-LMS, stress on stress-SoS, phagocytosis, tissue metallothionein-MT content, oxidative stress related enzyme activities (GST, catalase), and nitric oxide (NO) production were evaluated. The results underline the importance of LMS and SoS as core descriptors of the mussel health status in relation to seasonal variations in temperature and reproduction. These data represent the baseline information for ongoing biomonitoring studies related to dredging activities in this area.

Impact of bisphenol A (BPA) on early embryo development in the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis: Effects on gene transcription

Bisphenol A (BPA), a monomer used in plastic manufacturing, is weakly estrogenic and a potential endocrine disruptor in mammals. Although it degrades quickly, it is pseudo-persistent in the environment because of continual inputs, with reported concentrations in aquatic environments between 0.0005 and 12 μg/L. BPA represents a potential concern for aquatic ecosystems, as shown by its reproductive and developmental effects in aquatic vertebrates. In invertebrates, endocrine-related effects of BPA were observed in different species and experimental conditions, with often conflicting results, indicating that the sensitivity to this compound can vary considerably among related taxa. In the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis BPA was recently shown to affect early development at environmental concentrations. In this work, the possible effects of BPA on mussel embryos were investigated at the molecular level by evaluating transcription of 13 genes, selected on the basis of their biological functions in adult mussels. Gene expression was first evaluated in trocophorae and D-veligers (24 and 48 h post fertilization) grown in physiological conditions, in comparison with unfertilized eggs. Basal expressions showed a general up-regulation during development, with distinct transcript levels in trocophorae and D-veligers. Exposure of fertilized eggs to BPA (10 μg/L) induced a general upregulation at 24 h pf, followed by down regulation at 48 h pf. Mytilus Estrogen Receptors, serotonin receptor and genes involved in biomineralization (Carbonic Anydrase and Extrapallial Protein) were the most affected by BPA exposure. At 48 h pf, changes in gene expression were associated with irregularities in shell formation, as shown by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicating that the formation of the first shelled embryo, a key step in mussel development, represents a sensitive target for BPA. Similar results were obtained with the natural estrogen 17β-estradiol. The results demonstrate that BPA and E₂ can affect Mytilus early development through dysregulation of gene transcription.

Isolation of a Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast strain from the sandfly Phlebotomus perniciosus, displaying the killer phenotype

The yeast Wickerhamomyces anomalus has been studied for its wide biotechnological potential, mainly for applications in the food industry. Different strains of W. anomalus have been isolated from diverse habitats and recently from insects, including mosquitoes of medical importance. This paper reports the isolation and phylogenetic characterization of W. anomalus from laboratory-reared adults and larvae of Phlebotomus perniciosus (Diptera: Psychodidae), a main phlebotomine vector of human and canine leishmaniasis. Of 65 yeast strains isolated from P. perniciosus, 15 strains were identified as W. anomalus; one of these was tested for the killer phenotype and demonstrated inhibitory activity against four yeast sensitive strains, as reported for mosquito-isolated strains. The association between P. perniciosus and W. anomalus deserves further investigation in order to explore the possibility that this yeast may exert inhibitory/killing activity against Leishmania spp.

Enhancement patterns of intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma at multiphasic computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging and correlation with clinicopathologic features

OBJECTIVE

Incidence of intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) is increasing worldwide, especially in patients with chronic liver disease. The small and the histologically well-differentiated IMCCs in chronic liver disease could be arterially hypervascular lesions with/without washout on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mimicking typical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this work is to evaluate contrast enhancement (CE) patterns of IMCCs at quadri-phasic multidetector CT (4-MDCT) and MRI, using imaging-clinicopathologic correlation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The 4-MDCT and MR images of 56 histologically confirmed IMCCs were retrospectively evaluated for tumor morphology and enhancement features. Enhancement pattern was defined according to the behavior of the nodule in arterial (AP), portal venous (PVP) and equilibrium phases (EP), and dynamic pattern was described according to enhancement progression throughout the different phases. Arterial and dynamic enhancement patterns were correlated with chronic liver disease, tumor size and histological differentiation.

RESULTS

Most of the nodules were peripherally hyperenhancing (50%) on AP, and partially hyperenhancing on PVP (67.9%) and EP (80.3%). Forty-six (82.1%) IMCCs showed progressive CE, 7 (12.5%) stable CE and 3 (5.4%) wash-out. In normal liver there were 34 nodules with progressive and 3 with stable CE, whereas in chronic liver disease there were 12 IMCCs with progressive, 4 with stable and 3 with washout pattern (p = 0.01); IMCCs with progressive CE were more differentiated than IMCCs with stable CE and wash-out (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The most prevalent enhancement pattern of IMCCs was arterial rim enhancement followed by progressive and concentric filling. The stable and the washout patterns were more frequent in poorly differentiated IMCCs. Contrast washout was observed only in IMCCs emerging in chronic liver disease with a risk of misdiagnosis with HCC.

Association of SULT1A1 Arg²¹³His polymorphism with male breast cancer risk: results from a multicenter study in Italy

Male breast cancer (MBC) is rare and poorly understood. Like female breast cancer (FBC), MBCs are highly sensitive to hormonal changes, and hyperestrogenism, specifically, represents a major risk factor for MBC. MBC is considered similar to late-onset, post-menopausal estrogen/progesteron receptors positive FBC (ER+/PR+). Sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1) is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of estrogens. Recently, SULT1A1 common functional polymorphism Arg(213)His (638G>A) variant has been found to be associated with increased breast cancer (BC) risk, particularly in post-menopausal women. For this reason, we decided to explore whether SULT1A1 Arg(213)His could exert an effect on MBC development. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the SULT1A1 Arg(213)His polymorphism on MBC risk. The secondary aim was to investigate possible associations with relevant clinical-pathologic features of MBC. A total of 394 MBC cases and 786 healthy male controls were genotyped for SULT1A1 Arg(213)His polymorphism by PCR-RFLP and high-resolution melting analysis. All MBC cases were characterized for relevant clinical-pathologic features. A significant difference in the distribution of SULT1A1 Arg(213)His genotypes was found between MBC cases and controls (P < 0.0001). The analysis of genotype-specific risk showed a significant increased MBC risk in individuals with G/A (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.50-2.59; P < 0.0001) and A/A (OR 3.09, 95% CI 1.83-5.23; P < 0.0001) genotypes in comparison to wild-type genotype, under co-dominant model. A significant association between SULT1A1 risk genotypes and HER2 status emerged. Results indicate that SULT1A1 Arg(213)His may act as a low-penetrance risk allele for developing MBC and could be associated with a specific tumor subtype associated with HER2 overexpression.

Abstract 4319: Inability of putative ovarian cancer stem cells to engage OXPHOS confer 2-deoxyglucose-mediated prevention of in vivo recurrence

Background:

Mortality in ovarian cancer does not usually occur at primary diagnosis but rather in the recurrent setting where patients present with chemoresistance and carcinomatosis. Prevention of recurrence can therefore have an impact on patient survival. Due to its inherent chemoresistance, cancer stem cells that are left after surgery are thought to drive recurrent disease owing to its tumor-initiating properties and enhanced capacity for repair. We demonstrate that the putative epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) stem cells have a unique bioenergetic profile that can be targeted with the goal of delaying and/or preventing recurrent disease.

Methods:

In vitro: Pure clones of CD44+/MyD88+ and CD44-/MyD88- EOC cells were treated with 20 mM 2-DG, 5 μM Oligomycin, or 1 mM dinitrophenol (DNP). ATP levels were quantified using Celltiter Glo. Mitochondrial content and membrane potential (MMP) were measured using Mitotracker Green and Red, respectively. In vivo: CD44+/MyD88+/mCherry+ EOC stem cells were injected i.p. in nude mice. Mice received four doses of 12 mg/kg Paclitaxel q3d and then randomized to maintenance with 2-DG (500 mg/kg every MWF) or maintenance with saline. All treatments were given i.p. Tumors were monitored by live in vivo imaging using In Vivo FX System and quantified using the region of interest (ROI) tool based on mCherry fluorescent area.

Results:

Treatment with Oligomycin or DNP did not affect viability nor ATP content in CD44+/MyD88+ EOC stem cells but 2-DG induced rapid decline in ATP and death, which was not rescued with Succinate co-treatment. In contrast, in CD44-/MyD88- EOC cells, treatment with Oligomycin, DNP, or 2-DG only slightly decreased ATP without inducing cell death. Despite having more mitochondria, EOC stem cells have: (1) lower levels of Cox- I, -II, and -IV; (2) undetectable levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase; (3) and higher levels of UCP2 compared to CD44-/MyD88- EOC cells. Administration of 2-DG, as maintenance treatment post-chemotherapy, significantly delayed progression of recurrent disease and decreased i.p. tumor burden in the xenograft model. All mice maintained in saline recurred with average time-to-recurrence of 11 days. In contrast, only 25% of the mice maintained in 2-DG demonstrated recurrence with average time-to-recurrence of 19 days. Finally, analysis of tumors post-mortem show high levels of the autophagic markers p-AMPK and cleaved LC3 in the 2-DG maintained group compared to control.

Conclusion:

We demonstrate that the exclusive reliance of EOC stem cells to glycolysis to meet its ATP requirement and its inability to engage OXPHOS even under stress conditions can be exploited to target these otherwise chemoresistant cancer cells for the prevention of recurrence. Our results show the potential of maintenance treatment with glycolysis inhibitors, administered following standard chemotherapy, in improving survival in patients with ovarian cancer.

Citation Format: Ayesha B. Alvero, Michele Montagna, Natalia J. Sumi, Won Duk Joo, Vinicius Craveiro, Emma Graham, Gil Mor. Inability of putative ovarian cancer stem cells to engage OXPHOS confer 2-deoxyglucose-mediated prevention of in vivo recurrence. [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 4319. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4319

Co-exposure to n-TiO2 and Cd2+ results in interactive effects on biomarker responses but not in increased toxicity in the marine bivalve M. galloprovincialis

The increasing production of nanoparticles (NPs) will lead to their release into the aquatic environment, where they could modify the bioavailability/bioconcentration and consequent biological impact of other contaminants. Interactive effects of n-TiO2, one of the most widespread NP type, and Cd(2+), a common heavy metal pollutant, have been described in freshwater species, whereas no information is available in marine organisms. In this work, the effects of co-exposure to n-TiO2 and Cd(2+) were investigated in the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis. Experimental conditions (100 μg/L, 96 h), were chosen in order to induce early but measurable stress responses (biomarkers) without toxicity. Several biomarkers, from molecular to tissue level, were measured in hemolymph and digestive gland; the effects on embryo development were also evaluated. In hemolymph, Cd(2+) abolished the increase in immune parameters induced by n-TiO2 (NO production and lysozyme activity). In the digestive gland, distinct interactive effects of n-TiO2 and Cd(2+) were observed on different lysosomal biomarkers (lysosomal membrane stability, lipid accumulation and lysosome/cytoplasm volume ratio) and transcription of the immune genes lysozyme and toll-like receptor (TLR). However, n-TiO2 did not affect specific metal-induced responses (metallothionein induction) and tissue metal accumulation. Cd(2+) alone, but not in combination with n-TiO2, affected embryo development. The interactive effects observed on different biomarkers were not apparently due to differences in bioavailability/bioaccumulation of Cd(2+) in the presence of n-TiO2 agglomerates; these effects may result from interactions of either contaminant with both common and distinct targets/mechanisms of action at different levels of biological organization. Overall, the results indicate that co-exposure to n-TiO2 and Cd(2+) did not result in increased adverse effects in M. galloprovincialis. These data underline the need for further knowledge on the potential interactions of NPs with existing contaminants in marine organisms.

Adaptation of the bivalve embryotoxicity assay for the high throughput screening of emerging contaminants in Mytilus galloprovincialis

Emerging contaminants (such as Endocrine disrupting chemicals-EDCs, brominated and perfluorinated compounds-BFRs and PFCs, pharmaceuticals) are chemicals currently not included in regulatory monitoring programs, and whose fate and biological impacts are poorly understood. Assessment of ecosystem health with respect to these chemicals is of particular concern also in the marine environment: in this respect, data on the effects on early life stages are important to establish the sensitivity of marine species. In this work, the acute (48 h) bivalve embryo toxicity test was applied for screening the developmental effects of different emerging contaminants in the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. The assay was adapted to 96-microwell plates, and standardized in order to obtain to normal D-shaped larvae with acceptability of test results based on negative control and positive control (copper) comparable with those reported in literature for Mytilus spp. The effects of different model compounds representative of EDCs (Nonylphenol-NP and Bisphenol A-BPA), BFRs (Tetrabromobisphenol A-TBBPA), PFCs (perfluorooctanoid acid-PFOA and perfluorooctane sulphonate-PFOAS) and pharmaceuticals (Ibuprofen-IBU, Diclofenac-DCF, Bezafibrate-BEZA) in a wide concentration range (0.01-0.1-1-10-100-1000 μg/L) were evaluated. The assay proved as a sensitive tool for high throughput screening of emerging contaminants in a marine species, leading to production of significant amounts of data that may be useful for regulatory purposes.

Spectroscopic evidence for a gas-phase librating G-quartet–Na+ complex

The Na⁺–G₄ adduct exists as a mixture of two metastable populations, rapidly interconverting at room temperature.

Performance of BOADICEA and BRCAPRO genetic models and of empirical criteria based on cancer family history for predicting BRCA mutation carrier probabilities: a retrospective study in a sample of Italian cancer genetics clinics

PURPOSE

To evaluate in current practice the performance of BOADICEA and BRCAPRO risk models and empirical criteria based on cancer family history for the selection of individuals for BRCA genetic testing.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The probability of BRCA mutation according to the three tools was retrospectively estimated in 918 index cases consecutively undergone BRCA testing at 15 Italian cancer genetics clinics between 2006 and 2008.

RESULTS

179 of 918 cases (19.5%) carried BRCA mutations. With the strict use of the criteria based on cancer family history 173 BRCA (21.9%) mutations would have been detected in 789 individuals. At the commonly used 10% threshold of BRCA mutation carrier probability, the genetic models showed a similar performance [PPV (38% and 37%), sensitivity (76% and 77%) and specificity (70% and 69%)]. Their strict use would have avoided around 60% of the tests but would have missed approximately 1 every 4 carriers.

CONCLUSION

Our data highlight the complexity of BRCA testing referral in routine practice and question the strict use of genetic models for BRCA risk assessment.

Development and Validation of an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Palivizumab Serum Determination

Palivizumab (Synagis®) is a humanized monoclonal antibody (IgG1K) composed of 95% human and 5% murine sequences. It is directed to an epitope in the A antigenic site of the F protein of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Palivizumab is used for prevention of serious lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in pediatric patients who are at increased risk of severe disease and is administered intramuscularly (IM) for a total of 5 monthly doses. Herein, we report on the development and validation of a very sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure serum concentrations of palivizumab by a rabbit polyclonal antibody specifically produced against the murine sequence. The method was developed and validated according to the guidelines “Guidance for Industry” (1998) and has proved suitable for the determination of palivizumab serum levels in the target infant population. The ELISA assay was successfully applied to test the serum samples in an infant population who received palivizumab intramuscularly; thus, the assay could be used to determine serum levels in palivizumab-treated infants to optimize dosing and scheduling and to study the relationship between dose and clinical response.

Association of low-penetrance alleles with male breast cancer risk and clinicopathological characteristics: results from a multicenter study in Italy

It is well-known that male breast cancer (MBC) susceptibility is mainly due to high-penetrance BRCA1/2 mutations. Here, we investigated whether common low-penetrance breast cancer (BC) susceptibility alleles may influence MBC risk in Italian population and whether variant alleles may be associated with specific clinicopathological features of MBCs. In the frame of the Italian Multicenter Study on MBC, we genotyped 413 MBCs and 745 age-matched male controls at 9 SNPs annotating known BC susceptibility loci. By multivariate logistic regression models, we found a significant increased MBC risk for 3 SNPs, in particular, with codominant models, for rs2046210/ESR1 (OR = 1.71; 95 % CI: 1.43-2.05; p = 0.0001), rs3803662/TOX3 (OR = 1.59; 95 % CI: 1.32-1.92; p = 0.0001), and rs2981582/FGFR2 (OR = 1.26; 95 % CI: 1.05-1.50; p = 0.013). Furthermore, we showed that the prevalence of the risk genotypes of ESR1 tended to be higher in ER- tumors (p = 0.062). In a case-case multivariate analysis, a statistically significant association between ESR1 and ER- tumors was found (OR = 1.88; 95 % CI: 1.03-3.49; p = 0.039). Overall, our data, based on a large and well-characterized MBC series, support the hypothesis that common low-penetrance BC susceptibility alleles play a role in MBC susceptibility and, interestingly, indicate that ESR1 is associated with a distinct tumor subtype defined by ER-negative status.

Structural and optical characterization of the local environment of Er3+ ions in PbO-ZnO tellurite glasses

Erbium activated PbO-ZnO tellurite glasses ((70TeO(2)-(30-x)ZnO-xPbO)(0.99)-(Er(2)O(3))(0.01) (TZPE), (x = 5, 10, 15, 20)) were prepared by a melt quenching process and studied by optical absorption, luminescence, Raman and x-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements as a function of the PbO/ZnO ratio. The glass structure, as monitored by Raman scattering, shows important changes with the PbO/ZnO ratio, attributed to a glass former action of PbO. The local environment of Er(3+) ions, as measured by extended x-ray absorption spectroscopy, does not appreciably change as regards the first oxygen shell. However, the intensity of the optical transitions is quite sensitive to the PbO/ZnO ratio, indicating a progressive increase of the site symmetry with the PbO content. The emission probability and radiative lifetime of several excited states of Er(3+) ions were calculated using Judd-Ofelt analysis.

Evaluation of a candidate breast cancer associated SNP in ERCC4 as a risk modifier in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Results from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/BRCA2 (CIMBA)

Background:

In this study we aimed to evaluate the role of a SNP in intron 1 of the ERCC4 gene (rs744154), previously reported to be associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in the general population, as a breast cancer risk modifier in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Methods:

We have genotyped rs744154 in 9408 BRCA1 and 5632 BRCA2 mutation carriers from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA) and assessed its association with breast cancer risk using a retrospective weighted cohort approach.

Results:

We found no evidence of association with breast cancer risk for BRCA1 (per-allele HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.93–1.04, P=0.5) or BRCA2 (per-allele HR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.89–1.06, P=0.5) mutation carriers.

Conclusion:

This SNP is not a significant modifier of breast cancer risk for mutation carriers, though weak associations cannot be ruled out.

Molecular phenotyping of human ovarian cancer stem cells unravels the mechanisms for repair and chemoresistance

A major burden in the treatment of ovarian cancer is the high percentage of recurrence and chemoresistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) provide a reservoir of cells that can self-renew, can maintain the tumor by generating differentiated cells [non-stem cells (non-CSCs)] which make up the bulk of the tumor and may be the primary source of recurrence. We describe the characterization of human ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs). These cells have a distinctive genetic profile that confers them with the capacity to recapitulate the original tumor, proliferate with chemotherapy, and promote recurrence. CSC identified in EOC cells isolated form ascites and solid tumors are characterized by: CD44+, MyD88+, constitutive NFkappaB activity and cytokine and chemokine production, high capacity for repair, chemoresistance to conventional chemotherapies, resistance to TNFalpha-mediated apoptosis, capacity to form spheroids in suspension, and the ability to recapitulate in vivo the original tumor. Chemotherapy eliminates the bulk of the tumor but it leaves a core of cancer cells with high capacity for repair and renewal. The molecular properties identified in these cells may explain some of the unique characteristics of CSCs that control self-renewal and drive metastasis. The identification and cloning of human OCSCs can aid in the development of better therapeutic approaches for ovarian cancer patients.

Abstract 2029: Identification and characterization of cancer stem cells in ovarian cancer

Introduction: One of the major burdens in the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the high percentage of recurrence characterized by chemoresistance. The biology underlying the tumor’s high capacity for recurrence has not been elucidated. Tumors are made of a heterogeneous cell population consisting of both cancer and non-cancer cells. New data suggest that even the cancer cell population is heterogeneous and contains a small subset of cells, the cancer stem cells (CSC), which constitute a reservoir that can self-renew and therefore maintain the tumor. CSC can divide and expand their pool and also differentiate into non-CSC, which constitute the bulk of the tumor. Contrary to CSC, the non-CSC are rapidly dividing and therefore sensitive to therapies, which target highly proliferative cells. In the present study we identified and characterized the CSC of EOC.

Methods: EOC cells were isolated from malignant ovarian cancer ascities and solid tumors (n=80). Marker expression was determined using Flow Cytometry, Western Blots and Immunocytochemistry. Xenograft nude mice model was used for tumor growth by injecting cancer cells either s.c. or i.p. Isolation of CD44+ population was done using FACS. Cancer cells were maintained in culture as previously described {Kamsteeg, 2003 #358}

Results: CSC were identified in EOC cells isolated form ascites and solid tumors with the following characteristics: 1) cellular markers: CD44+, MyD88+, constitutive NFκB activity and cytokine and chemokine production, high capacity for repair, chemoresistance to conventional chemotherapies, resistance to TNFα-mediated apoptosis, capacity to form spheroids in suspension, and unique microRNA phenotype; 2) tumor formation in animals: 100% CD44+ cells formed tumors which contained 10% CD44+ and 90% CD44-negative cells. Re-injection of isolated CD44+ cells from previous engraftment was able to again recapitulate the original tumor phenotype. Isolation and in vitro treatment of CD44+ cells from fresh samples showed resistance to carboplatin and paclitaxel. In contrast, the sorted CD44-negative cell population from the same sample/patient was chemosensitive.

Conclusion: Present chemotherapy modalities eliminate the bulk of the tumor but it leaves a core of cancer cells with high capacity for repair and renewal. CSC corresponds to the core of malignant cells that promotes recurrence and chemoresistance. Identification of these cells represents the first step in the development of therapeutic modalities that can eliminate not only the bulk of the tumor but its source. Prevention of recurrence will be achieved only with therapies targeting this cell population.

Phenoxodiol-Topotecan co-administration exhibit significant anti-tumor activity without major adverse side effects

OBJECTIVE

We previously showed that Phenoxodiol is able to sensitize epithelial ovarian cancer cells to Paclitaxel, Carboplatin, Gemcitabine, and Docetaxel. The aim of this study was to determine the value of Phenoxodiol-Topotecan coadministration.

METHODS

Nine epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines isolated from ascites or ovarian tissue were treated with increasing concentrations of Topotecan (5-500 ng/ml) with or without Phenoxodiol pretreatment (10 microg/ml) for 24 h and cell viability was measured using CellTiter 96 AQueous One Solution Cell Proliferation Assay. The effect of Phenoxodiol-Topotecan combination therapy in vivo was determined using the topotecan resistant A2780 mouse xenograft model.

RESULTS

In vitro, pretreatment with Phenoxodiol lowers the topotecan IC50 from >500 ng/ml to 2.5-100 ng/ml in five out of nine cell lines tested. RESULTS from animal experiments confirmed the advantage of Phenoxodiol-Topotecan combination therapy over monotherapy controls. Median tumour kinetics from animals receiving Phenoxodiol-Topotecan in combination was significantly slower compared to those animals receiving the respective monotherapies. In addition, co-administration with Phenoxodiol reversed Topotecan-induced myelosuppression.

CONCLUSION

Phenoxodiol-Topotecan combination therapy allows the administration of both agents at lower doses while retaining significant anti-tumor activity compared to monotherapy. These findings suggest that the Phenoxodiol-Topotecan combination may represent an alternative treatment modality for the management of ovarian cancer and justifies further investigation in the clinical setting.

A new sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for Alemtuzumab determination: development, validation and application

Alemtuzumab is a humanized (IgG(1)) rat monoclonal antibody to CD52 antigen and is currently used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other CD52-positive lymphoproliferative disorders. Various techniques have been developed to measure Alemtuzumab levels in human serum/plasma. The authors report on the validation of a very sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure serum concentrations of the humanized IgG(1) using a rabbit polyclonal antibody specifically produced against the rat sequence of Alemtuzumab after papain digestion. The assay was successfully applied to test the serum samples of patients with B-lymphocyte CLL who received Alemtuzumab subcutaneously. This ELISA assay could be easily used to determine human serum levels of Alemtuzumab pre- and post-treatment to optimize dosing and scheduling and to study the relationship between dose and clinical response.

Methyl group metabolism gene polymorphisms as modifier of breast cancer risk in Italian BRCA1/2 carriers

BRCA1 and 2 are major cancer susceptibility genes but their penetrance is highly variable. The folate metabolism plays an important role in DNA methylation and its alterated metabolism is associated with cancer risk. The role of allele variants 677T and 1298C (MTHFR gene) and 2756G (MS gene) has been investigated as potentially modifying factors of BRCA gene penetrance, evaluated as age at first diagnosis of cancer, in 484 BRCA1/BRCA2 carriers and in 108 sporadic breast cancer cases as a control group. The genotype analysis has been performed by means of PCR/RFLP's. The analysis of association between a particular genotype and disease risk was performed using Cox Regression with time to breast or ovarian cancer onset as the end-point. The presence of 677T allele confers an increased risk of breast cancer in BRCA1 carriers (P = 0.007) and the presence of 1298C allele confers an increased risk of breast cancer in sporadic cases (P = 0.015).