Demonstrating drug treatment efficacies by monitoring superoxide dynamics in human lung cancer cells with time-lapse fluorescence microscopy

Metformin hydrochloride, an antihyperglycemic agent, and sulindac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, are FDA-approved drugs known to exert anticancer effects. Previous studies demonstrated sulindac and metformin's anticancer properties through mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibition of mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I and key signaling pathways. In this study, various drugs were administered to A549 lung cancer cells, and results revealed that a combination of sulindac and metformin enhanced cell death compared to the administration of the drugs separately. To measure superoxide production over time, we employed a time-lapse fluorescence imaging technique using mitochondrial-targeted hydroethidine. Fluorescence microscopy data showed the most significant increases in superoxide production in the combination treatment of metformin and sulindac. Results showed significant differences between the combined drug treatment and control groups and between the positive control and control groups. This approach can be utilized to quantify the anticancer efficacy of drugs, creating possibilities for additional therapeutic options.

Epidemiology and impact of frailty in patients with atrial fibrillation in Europe

BACKGROUND

Frailty is a medical syndrome characterised by reduced physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors. Data regarding the relationship between frailty and atrial fibrillation (AF) are still inconsistent.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to perform a comprehensive evaluation of frailty in a large European cohort of AF patients.

METHODS

A 40-item frailty index (FI) was built according to the accumulation of deficits model in the AF patients enrolled in the ESC-EHRA EORP-AF General Long-Term Registry. Association of baseline characteristics, clinical management, quality of life, healthcare resources use and risk of outcomes with frailty was examined.

RESULTS

Among 10,177 patients [mean age (standard deviation) 69.0 (11.4) years, 4,103 (40.3%) females], 6,066 (59.6%) were pre-frail and 2,172 (21.3%) were frail, whereas only 1,939 (19.1%) were considered robust. Baseline thromboembolic and bleeding risks were independently associated with increasing FI. Frail patients with AF were less likely to be treated with oral anticoagulants (OACs) (odds ratio 0.70, 95% confidence interval 0.55-0.89), especially with non-vitamin K antagonist OACs and managed with a rhythm control strategy, compared with robust patients. Increasing frailty was associated with a higher risk for all outcomes examined, with a non-linear exponential relationship. The use of OAC was associated with a lower risk of outcomes, except in patients with very/extremely high frailty.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of AF patients, there was a high burden of frailty, influencing clinical management and risk of adverse outcomes. The clinical benefit of OAC is maintained in patients with high frailty, but not in very high/extremely frail ones.

Predicting residues involved in anti-DNA autoantibodies with limited neural networks

Abstract

Computer-aided rational vaccine design (RVD) and synthetic pharmacology are rapidly developing fields that leverage existing datasets for developing compounds of interest. Computational proteomics utilizes algorithms and models to probe proteins for functional prediction. A potentially strong target for computational approach is autoimmune antibodies, which are the result of broken tolerance in the immune system where it cannot distinguish “self” from “non-self” resulting in attack of its own structures (proteins and DNA, mainly). The information on structure, function, and pathogenicity of autoantibodies may assist in engineering RVD against autoimmune diseases. Current computational approaches exploit large datasets curated with extensive domain knowledge, most of which include the need for many resources and have been applied indirectly to problems of interest for DNA, RNA, and monomer protein binding. We present a novel method for discovering potential binding sites. We employed long short-term memory (LSTM) models trained on FASTA primary sequences to predict protein binding in DNA-binding hydrolytic antibodies (abzymes). We also employed CNN models applied to the same dataset for comparison with LSTM. While the CNN model outperformed the LSTM on the primary task of binding prediction, analysis of internal model representations of both models showed that the LSTM models recovered sub-sequences that were strongly correlated with sites known to be involved in binding. These results demonstrate that analysis of internal processes of LSTM models may serve as a powerful tool for primary sequence analysis.

Graphical abstract

Abstract 1753: Deregulation and therapeutic potential of targeting IRAK3 as chronic inflammation suppressor in prostate cancer

Chronic inflammation is emerging as a targetable driver of tumorigenesis. During chronic inflammation, several inflammatory molecules are either activated or suppressed for a prolonged time. The oncogenic role of many of these inflammatory genes in prostate cancer (PCa) remains unexplored despite the increasing association of chronic inflammation with PCa initiation, progression, and therapy resistance in the scientific literature. The overarching goal of this study was to identify deregulated inflammatory suppressor genes, including interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinases 3 (IRAK3) as biomarkers for inflammation-driven PCa aggressiveness or progression. To achieve this, we utilize cutting-edge integrative (epi)genomic and transcriptomic techniques to investigate the role of IRAK3 in PCa progression, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting IRAK3 in PCa. An array of computational tools was deployed to analyze Illumina HumanMethylation450K and whole exome RNAseq clinical datasets acquired from TCGA and cBioportal databases to identify differentially methylated and altered or expressed inflammatory suppressor genes in PCa patients/samples. We identified six inflammatory suppressor genes (IRAK3, TOLLIP, SOCS1, RNF216, IL1RL1, and TNFAIP3) to be significantly deregulated in indolent (n=493), metastatic (n=212), and lethal (n=50) PCa patients/samples. The expression patterns of these genes were correlated with clinical traits, such as age, progression-free status, overall survival status, biochemical recurrence, pathology as well as metastatic status using weighted gene co-expression network analysis, which identified IRAK3 as one of the top genes to explore. MutSigCV and GISTIC tools were used to identify somatic mutations and copy-number alterations. IRAK3 was found to be downregulated in most indolent, metastatic and lethal PCa samples. Its low expression correlated significantly with the progression, metastatic and recurrence statuses of the PCa. The genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of the 16 CpG probes identified in IRAK3 reveals hypermethylation (b-value or m-value < 0.01) at the promoter regions, which may be responsible for the observed transcriptional repression of IRAK3. Further analysis shows that DNA methylation is higher in PCa samples with mutated IRAK3 compared to those without the mutation. Mechanistic studies using genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing techniques were performed to create IRAK3+/+ or IRAK3-/- PCa clones. Using a series of bioassays, IRAK3 reactivation was found to inhibit PCa cell proliferation, migration, colony formation, and chemoresistance as well as induce apoptotic cell death. IRAK3+/+ PCa cells responded well to Taxane analogs compared to IRAK3-/- PCa cells. In conclusion, we have been able to demonstrate the tumor suppressor potential of IRAK3 in prostate cancer cells.

Citation Format: Saheed Oluwasina Oseni, Corey Naar, Magdalah Philemy, Genesis Acosta Laguer, Faika Ambrin, Sharlanda Metayer, Ariana Perez, Javoncia Betty, Preethika Praveen, James Hartmann, Mirjana Pavlovic, James Kumi-Diaka. Deregulation and therapeutic potential of targeting IRAK3 as chronic inflammation suppressor in prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 1753.

Abstract PS6-56: Clinical validity of compartmental analysis of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) - The key is in spatial morphology?

INTRODUCTIONAnalyzes reported to date on TIL in TNBC have evaluated mostly stromal (sTIL) and possibly intratumoral TIL (iTIL), but none evaluated TIL spatially, separately in compartments of central tumor (CT) and invasive margin (IM). Also, none evaluated connection between TIL and other clinicopathological factors.

METHODSWe retrospectively analyzed consecutive sample of 152 early TNBC patients treated at our institution 2009-2012. TIL were assessed morphologically, by hematoxylin - eosin (HE), using standard formalin - fixed - paraffin - embedded (FFPE) samples, according to recommendation of International Working Group for Evaluation of TIL, both sTIL and iTIL, spatially, in compartments of CT and IM. Available clinicopathological variables were analyzed, and correlations of all paramethers were calculated.

RESULTSMorphological analysis of TIL spatially by compartments showed as follows: median overall sTIL content was 19%, iTIL 5%, TIL in CT 5%, TIL at IM 18%, sTIL in CT 5%, iTIL in CT 1%, sTIL at IM 30%, and iTIL at IM 5%. Intermediate or high TIL content, defined as ≥10% was present in 48% cases of sTIL in CT, 23% of iTIL in CT, 86% of sTIL at IM, and in 47% of iTIL at IM cases. Quarter of patients had TIL>50% in any of four compartments. There was statistically significant positive correlation between sTIL in CT and age and menopausal status, and also tumor size (T), but w/out correlation to histologic subtype, nodal (N) status, grade, and Ki67; iTIL in CT were statistically significantly positively correlated to histologic subtype (precisely to NOS subtype), but negatively to age and menopausal status, exactly opposite to sTIL in this section, and w/out correlation to other tumor characteristics, such as T, N, grade or Ki67; sTIL on IM, as well as iTIL on IM, showed statistically significant correlation to grade and Ki67, and no correlation to age and menopausal status.

DISCUSSIONSection analysis reveals higher density of TIL content at IM, which directs attention towards this neglected tumoral compartment and it's possible role. It also shows, although in small numbers, that possibly iTIL, especially those at IM, could actually not only, as thought so far, serve as ,,satellites“ to sTIL, but an entirely autonomous, and even opposite biomarker. Moreover, all that could be concluded from just a simple and cheap HE morphological analysis of standard tumor specimen.

Citation Format: Ana Tecic Vuger, Robert Separovic, Ljubica Vazdar, Mirjana Pavlovic, Sanda Sitic, Ingrid Belac-Lovasic, Damir Vrbanec. Clinical validity of compartmental analysis of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) - The key is in spatial morphology? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2020 San Antonio Breast Cancer Virtual Symposium; 2020 Dec 8-11; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS6-56.

Rapid Cytoreduction by Plateletapheresis in the Treatment of Thrombocythemia

The objective of this chapter is to provide a systematic overview of current knowledge regarding therapeutic apheresis—primarily therapeutic plateletapheresis (TP)—and to summarize evidence-based practical approaches related to cytapheresis treatment of “hyperthrombocytosis” or “extreme thrombocytosis” (ETC). Our results of platelet (Plt) quantitative/qualitative analyses and evaluation of efficacy of apheresis systems/devices—on the basis of Plt removal and in vivo Plt depletion—will be presented. Our preclinical researches confirmed that in Plt concentrates, the initial ratio of discoid shapes was 70%, spherical 20%, and less valuable (dendritic/balloonized) shapes 10%—with morphological score of platelets (MSP = 300–400). After storage, the ratio of discoid and spherical shapes was decreased, while the less valuable ones progressively increased (MSP = 200). Electron microscopy has shown discoid shapes with typical ultrastructural properties. Spherical shapes with reduced electron density and peripheral location of granules/organelles were detected. Also, dendritic shapes with cytoskeletal “rearrangement,” membrane system integrity damages, and pseudopodia formations were documented. Our clinical study demonstrated that TP was useful in ETC treatment and should help prevention of “thrombo-hemorrhagic” events—until chemotherapy, antiplatelet drugs, and other medication take effect. During TP treatment, Plt count and morphology/ultrastructure were examined. Plt functions by multiplate analyzer were evaluated. We concluded that intensive TP was an effective, safe, and rapid cytoreductive treatment for ET.

Abstract 995: Integrative genomic characterization and CRISPR-mediated gene editing studies identify IRAKs as novel therapeutic targets for inflammation-driven prostate tumorigenesis

A major drawback to accurate diagnosis and treatment of inflammation-driven prostate cancer (PCa) progression is our limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying aberrant inflammation signaling in PCa patients. Since asymptomatic chronic inflammation is hard to diagnose, we do not have adequate knowledge of how specific genes within the inflammatory cascade drive PCa aggressiveness. Hence, an integrative genomic approach may provide us with effective prognostic and diagnostic tools to manage inflammation-driven PCa progression. The aim of this study was to characterize inflammation-associated hub genes as predictors of PCa progression and investigate the effect of aberrant signaling of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinases (IRAKs) on prostate tumorigenesis. WES and RNA-seq datasets from a total of 726 PCa patients, stratified into subtypes: primary PCa (PPC; n=493), metastatic PCa (MPC; n=150) and the castration-resistant PCa (CRPC; n=52) and neuroendocrine PCa (NEPC; n=30) from 3 cohort studies were acquired from cBioPortal. A bioinformatics pipeline was designed to analyze the datasets. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to construct gene co-expression networks and identify inflammation hub genes associated with PCa progression. The top inflammation hub genes, such as ILR1, TLRs, IRAK1-4, and NF-kB were validated. IRAK1-4 hub genes were found to be differentially expressed and genetically altered in NEPC and CRPC (>40%) compared to PPC and MPC (<20%) patients. GISTIC and MutSigCV were used to identify somatic mutations and copy-number alterations (CNAs). IRAK1 was found to have the highest CNA in CRPC and NEPC compared to MPC and PPC patients. Interestingly, no mutation was identified in CRPC and NEPC patients. The co-occurrence of IRAK1/4 CNVs and mRNA with AR, PI3K and AURKA signaling pathways suggest a role in PCa progression. To mechanistically investigate the role of IRAK1/4 signaling on PCa progression, CRISPR-mediated knockdown of IRAK1/4 was performed in PCa cell lines (LNCaP, PC3, and NCI-H660). mRNA and protein expression analyses were performed to determine changes in the levels of AR, PI3K/AKT, and AURKA between IRAK1/4-/- and IRAK1/4+/+ cell lines. Inhibition of IRAK1/4 significantly altered AR, PI3K, and AURKA signaling, leading to a reduction in PCa viability and metastatic potential. To investigate the effect of aberrant IRAK1/4 signaling on chemoresistance induction, IRAK+/+ PCa cells were treated with either TLR agonists or IRAK1/4 inhibitors and then treated with different anticancer drugs, such as Enzalutamide, Docetaxel, and Alisertib (AURKA inhibitor) dose-dependently. IRAK1/4-/- cells were more susceptible to anticancer drug treatment compared to IRAK1+/+ cells. The combination treatments were shown to be synergistic, thereby suppressing inflammation-induced chemoresistance. In conclusion, we have identified IRAK1/4 as a potential target for treating inflammation-driven prostate cancer progression.

Citation Format: Saheed Oluwasina Oseni, Mirjana Pavlovic, James Hartmann, James Kumi-Diaka. Integrative genomic characterization and CRISPR-mediated gene editing studies identify IRAKs as novel therapeutic targets for inflammation-driven prostate tumorigenesis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 995.

Prognostic value of tumor: Infiltrating lymphocytes and androgen receptors correlation in triple negative breast cancer

e12571

Background: Little is known about correlation of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and androgen receptors (AR) and their joint effect on early triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) prognosis. Analyzes to date evaluated mostly stromal TIL (sTIL) and intratumoral (iTIL), but not separately in central tumor (CT) and invasive margin (IM). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive sample of 152 early TNBC patients treated at our institution 2009-2012. TIL and AR were assessed using standard FFPE samples, TIL according to International Working Group for Evaluation of TIL recommendation, sTIL and iTIL in CT and IM, and AR by immunohistochemistry. Results: Median age was 58, 84% NOS, median T 2.2cm, 41% N+, 22%, 59% and 19% in stage I, II and III, respectively. Radical mastectomy was performed in 39%, adjuvant chemotherapy in 88% and radiotherapy in 74% of patients. Positive AR defined as ≥1% nuclear-stained cells, were expressed in 31%, and AR≥10% in 26% of patients. Median TIL content was: sTIL 19%, iTIL 5%, TIL in CT 5%, at IM 18%, sTIL in CT (CTs) 5%, iTIL in CT (CTi) 1%, sTIL at IM (IMs) 30%, and iTIL at IM (IMi) 5%. Prevalence of intermediate or high TIL content, defined as ≥10% was: CTs in 48%, CTi in 23%, IMs in 86%, and IMi in 47% of cases. In bivariable analysis all TIL indicators were significantly associated with longer OS, while AR was not. After adjustment for potential confounders using Cox proportional hazard regression, significant predictors of OS were sTIL (p0.007), IM TIL (p0.002), IMs (p0.001), and IMi (p0.030). In all cases higher TIL content was associated with longer OS. Although AR was not significant predictor of OS, it's interactions with TIL IMs and IMi was. There was no significant difference in OS between patients with high IMs and low IMs and AR0, but those with high IMs and AR≥1 had HR0.22 (p0.045) for death compared to patients with low IMs and AR0. Also, no difference for high IMi and low IMi and AR0, but patients with high IMi and AR≥1 had HR0.10 (p0.028) for death compared to patients with low IMi and AR0. Conclusions: Section analysis reveals frequent intermediate to high density and statistically significant prognostic impact of TIL on IM. That directs question towards role of different tumor compartments. Furthermore, combination of high expression of IMs and IMi with AR≥1 appears to be associated with longer OS than in patients with high IMs and IMi but with AR0. The correlations between AR and all TIL studied are extremely small, indicating their independence, but if so, their interaction in impact on OS is particularly interesting.

Abstract 1487: Dysregulation of Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 promotes prostate cancer-associated chronic inflammation and aggressiveness

For decades, chronic inflammation has been linked with cancer development. However, the molecular mechanisms of this association with respect to prostate cancer (PCa) aggressiveness are poorly understood. While previous studies exploiting the contributions of upstream and downstream inflammation signaling proteins to this oncogenic alliance have been clinically unsuccessful, the goal of our study is to elucidate the role of the often-neglected midstream inflammation regulatory proteins, such as the Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1). We propose that the dysregulation of IRAK1 protein will promote PCa-associated chronic inflammation and aggressiveness. To explore the importance of IRAK1 in PCa-associated chronic inflammation and aggressiveness, both bioinformatics and experimental approaches were employed. Cutting-edge computational meta-analysis was used to characterize and assess the molecular patterns of gene expression and alteration of IRAK1 in clinical datasets of PCa patients acquired from open resource databases. Inflammation-associated PCa models were established by pre-exposure of aggressive PC3-CRPC cells to low doses (10ng-10µg/ml) of TLR-2, -3, -4 and -7/8 agonists, such as zymosan, poly (I:C), LPS, and resiquimod, respectively, which led to the upregulation of IRAK1 prior to mechanistic studies. Chronic inflammation was confirmed by measuring changes in the levels of IL-6/IL-12 via ELISA. IRAK1 mRNA and protein upregulation were analyzed by RT-PCR and western blot or immunofluorescent staining. Next, we investigated the effects of IRAK1 dysregulation on the aggressiveness of PCa cells by downregulating IRAK1 expression in PC3 cells by either pharmacologic inhibition with thymoquinone (an IRAK1 inhibitor) or via RNAi. MTT and colony forming assays were performed to assess the effects on cell viability and survival. IRAK1 mRNA and protein levels in PC3 cells following treatment with thymoquinone or IRAK1 inhibitor were measured using RT-PCR, western blot or immunocytochemistry. Cell migration was assessed by wound healing assay. Acridine orange/propidium iodide fluorescent staining and flow cytometry were used to analyze the effect on cell cycle and apoptosis. Our computational analysis shows that IRAK1 is commonly upregulated at the mRNA and protein levels and genetically altered/mutated in clinical PCa samples. Downregulation of IRAK1 by thymoquinone or RNAi in PC3 cells result in a decrease in cell viability, cell migration, and proinflammatory cytokines as well as an increase in apoptotic cell death in a dose and time-dependent manner. Upregulation of IRAK1 prior to treatment with PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitors abrogates the anticancer effects of these drugs. Our study establishes IRAK1 as a promising therapeutic target to treat PCa-associated chronic inflammation and aggressiveness.

Citation Format: Saheed Oluwasina Oseni, Cynthia Nguyen, Mirjana Pavlovic, James Kumi-Diaka. Dysregulation of Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 promotes prostate cancer-associated chronic inflammation and aggressiveness [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1487.

Abstract 5730: Co-targeting toll-like receptor and PI3K survival signaling pathways in stem-like castration resistant prostate cancer cells

The development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPCs) has been linked to the ability of prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) to either resist or survive the inhibitory effect of androgen deprivation and radiation therapies. Dysregulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is a common phenomenon in CRPCs, resulting in survival, growth enhancement, resistance to apoptosis and altered metabolism. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been shown to be surprisingly expressed in prostate cancer cells, which when activated could lead to activation of innate immune response and activation of other cell signaling pathways. Since, recent studies have identified links between TLR signaling and prostate cancer, TLR polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk, as well as possible cross-talks between TLR signaling and the PI3K pathway in immune cells, we hypothesized that there is a link between PI3K signaling pathway and TLR signaling in CRPCs. Our aim is to determine the synergism between targeting PI3K and TLR signaling in a combination regimen. Methods: PTEN-/- (PC3) and PTEN-/+ (DU145) castration-resistant prostate cancer cell lines (CRPCs) were used for this experiment. CRPCs cells were cultured and enriched for CD44+ spheroid cells either by low dose radiation or in serum-free media. CRPCs and stem-like spheroid cells were then treated with different concentration of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR inhibitors, as well as TLR agonists /antagonists as monotherapy. Combination regimens were also done as assess the synergistic effects of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors and/or TLR ligands (agonists)/antagonists in CRPCs and/or spheroid cells. CRPCs or spheroid cells were assessed for treatment-induced effects such as cell viability (MTT assay), cell cytotoxicity (LDH), mode of cell death (fluorescent staining), protein expression profile (Western blot analysis), and redox activity (NBT assay). We also tested to assess treatment-induced inflammatory response via ELISA assay. Results: Our result shows that TLR 3, 4 and 9, were significantly differentially overexpressed in PTEN-/- CRPCs compared to PTEN-/+ CRPCs. The activation of these pathway results in PI3K signaling downstream. The co-targeting of PI3K signaling pathway with both PI3K inhibitors and TLR signaling modulators appears to be beneficial in preventing proliferation and stemness in PTEN-/- CRPCs compared to PTEN-/+ CRPCs. Co-administration of PI3K and TLR 4/9 agonist appears to be antagonistic but become synergistic when TLRs 4 and 9 signaling were inhibited using siRNAs. Conclusion: One of the advantages of this combination treatment method is that it proffers a solution to the often-encountered feedback loop observed when PI3K signaling inhibitors are used as monotherapy. This study has provided more insights on how targeting can be beneficial in the eradication of CRPCs when used along with PI3K signaling inhibitors.

Citation Format: Saheed Oluwasina Oseni, Rolando Branly, Mirjana Pavlovic, James Kumi-Diaka. Co-targeting toll-like receptor and PI3K survival signaling pathways in stem-like castration resistant prostate cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5730.

Calculation and Validation of the Response Matrix for a Neutron Multisphere Spectrometer with an Indium Central Detector

Expansion of accelerator technologies into different application areas brings the need for neutron-field measurements in their vicinity. The measurements of neutron energy spectra and neutron dose rates can be done with the aid of neutron multisphere spectrometers with passive neutron detectors. In addition to the usually used thermoluminescent detectors and gold activation foils, another activation material-indium-can be considered. This paper presents a design of such an indium-based neutron multisphere spectrometer. Its response matrix was calculated with Monte Carlo code MCNP5 in the energy interval from 0.001 eV to about 20 MeV. The response matrix was validated with an Am-Be standard neutron source. MAXED code was used for neutron energy spectra unfolding. The values of the neutron fluence rate and neutron ambient dose equivalent rate in a reference point were calculated. The properties and advantages of indium for use in neutron multisphere spectrometry are discussed.

Circulating tumor cell isolation, culture, and downstream molecular analysis

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are a major contributor of cancer metastases and hold a promising prognostic significance in cancer detection. Performing functional and molecular characterization of CTCs provides an in-depth knowledge about this lethal disease. Researchers are making efforts to design devices and develop assays for enumeration of CTCs with a high capture and detection efficiency from whole blood of cancer patients. The existing and on-going research on CTC isolation methods has revealed cell characteristics which are helpful in cancer monitoring and designing of targeted cancer treatments. In this review paper, a brief summary of existing CTC isolation methods is presented. We also discuss methods of detaching CTC from functionalized surfaces (functional assays/devices) and their further use for ex-vivo culturing that aid in studies regarding molecular properties that encourage metastatic seeding. In the clinical applications section, we discuss a number of cases that CTCs can play a key role for monitoring metastases, drug treatment response, and heterogeneity profiling regarding biomarkers and gene expression studies that bring treatment design further towards personalized medicine.

Strategies in Ebola virus disease (EVD) diagnostics at the point of care

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a devastating, highly infectious illness with a high mortality rate. The disease is endemic to regions of Central and West Africa, where there is limited laboratory infrastructure and trained staff. The recent 2014 West African EVD outbreak has been unprecedented in case numbers and fatalities, and has proven that such regional outbreaks can become a potential threat to global public health, as it became the source for the subsequent transmission events in Spain and the USA. The urgent need for rapid and affordable means of detecting Ebola is crucial to control the spread of EVD and prevent devastating fatalities. Current diagnostic techniques include molecular diagnostics and other serological and antigen detection assays; which can be time-consuming, laboratory-based, often require trained personnel and specialized equipment. In this review, we discuss the various Ebola detection techniques currently in use, and highlight the potential future directions pertinent to the development and adoption of novel point-of-care diagnostic tools. Finally, a case is made for the need to develop novel microfluidic technologies and versatile rapid detection platforms for early detection of EVD.

Abstract 5422: Synergistic effects of metabolic inhibitors on radiochemosensitized spheroid prostate cancer cells

One of the ways by which prostate cancer cells survive or become resistant to conventional therapies is through the ability to reprogram their metabolic pathways. Thus, justifying the need for studies to elucidate the efficacy of metabolic inhibitors in prostate cancer intervention. The purpose of this study was to investigate the synergistic effects of two metabolic pathway inhibitors - 3-bromopyruvate (3-BrPA) and genistein - on androgen sensitive (LNCaP) and androgen insensitive (DU145) spheroid prostate cancer cells separately primed or irradiated with very low doses of x-ray radiation (VLDR) and low frequency weak magnetic field radiation (MFR).

Methods: Both PCa cells were cultured until they form spheroids and then irradiated with either VLDR (20mGy/hr) or MFR (10mT; 50Hz/hr) in separate groups. Cells were seeded and treated with varying doses of 3-BrPA and genistein in single or combination regimen. Cell viability, metabolic activity and cytotoxicity or LDH release levels were measured using MTT, Alamar blue and LDH assays respectively. NBT assay was used to determine treatment-induced ROS levels. mitochondrial membrane potential was determined by Rh123 and ethidium bromide fluorescent staining. Modes of Cell death were determined by fluorescent staining with acridine orange and ethidium bromide dyes, and by morphological identification of apoptotic and autophagic PCa cells. CompuSyn program was used to determine the time- and dose-dependent synergism between combination regimens.

Results: Our results show that VLDR and weak MFR moderately inhibit cell proliferation in both PCa cell lines. However, LNCaP PCa cells were found to be more responsive to both VLDR or weak MFR compared to DU-145 PCa cells. Both VLDR and MFR suppresses ATP generation and increases ROS generation time-dependently in both cell lines. The most common cell death event found in MFR-exposed cells was a mixture of mitotic catastrophe and autophagy, while autophagic and slight apoptotic responses were observed in VLDR-exposed cells. 3-BrPA triggers more autophagic response in irradiated DU145 cells compared more apoptotic response in LNCaP cells. In contrast, genistein induced cell growth inhibition in both cell lines, but more effect was observed in LNCaP cells with dose-dependent apoptotic response. Combination of 3-BrPA and genistein forced PCa cells to undergo reprogrammed cell death, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and LDH levels significantly in a dose and time-dependently.

Conclusion: The combination treatments show synergistic and significant inhibition of the glycolytic and mitochondrial metabolic pathways resulting in induction of apoptosis in radiochemosensitized PCa cells. Priming of cells with VLDR or MFR also enhanced the therapeutic effects of both metabolic inhibitors. Hence, reinforcing the potential benefit of metabolic inhibitors in prostate cancer treatment.

Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting.

Citation Format: Saheed O. Oseni, Rolando Branly, Mirjana Pavlovic, James Kumi-Diaka. Synergistic effects of metabolic inhibitors on radiochemosensitized spheroid prostate cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5422. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-5422

Relative frequency of immature CD34+/CD90+ subset in peripheral blood following mobilization correlates closely and inversely with the absolute count of harvested stem cells in multiple myeloma patients

Background/Aim. Stem cells (SCs) guarantee complete/longterm bone marrow (BM) repopulation after SC-transplants. The aim of the study was to evaluate absolute count of total SCs (determined by ISHAGE-sequential-gating protocol ? SCish) and relative frequency of immature CD34+/CD90+ (CD90+SCish) subset in peripheral blood (PB) as predictive factors of mobilization and apheresis product (AP) quality. Methods. Mobilization included chemotherapy and granulocytegrowth- factor (G-CSF). Harvesting was performed by Spectra- Optia-IDL-system. The SCsish were determined as a constitutional part of CD34+ cells in the ?stem-cell-region? using FC- 500 flow-cytometer. In this study, the original ISHAGEsequential- gating protocol was modified by introduction of anti-CD90-PE monoclonal-antibody into the analysis of CD90 expression on SCish (CD90+SCish). The results were presented as a percentage of SCish per nucleated-cell count, absolute SCish count in ?L of the PB or the AP, percentage of the CD90+SCish expressed to SCish and absolute CD90+SCish count in ?L of the PB or the AP. Results. The absolute count of total SCish and CD90+SCish was significantly higher (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0266, respectively) in the AP than in the PB samples. The CD90+SCish/total SCish indexes from PB were higher than indexes from the AP (p = 0.039). The relative frequency of CD90+SCish showed a highly significant inverse correlation with the absolute count of total SCish in both, the PB and AP (p = 0.0003 and p = 0.0013 respectively). The relative frequency of CD90+SCish from the PB also showed a significant (p = 0.0002) inverse relationship with total SCish count in the AP. Patients with less than 10% CD90+SCish in the PB had evidently higher (p = 0.0025) total SCish count in the AP. Conclusion. We speculate that lower CD90+SCish yield in the AP is not a consequence of an inferior collection efficacy, but most likely a result of several still not fully resolved immature SC cytomorphological/ biophysical features. Therefore, following the mobilization by chemotherapy G-CSF, some logical questions appear ? whether we should follow the absolute count of total SCish, or, whether we should test for relative frequency of CD90+SCish prior to harvesting. To reach the final conclusions, it is essential to conduct further controlled and larger investigations concerning the correlation of circulating and harvested SCs with patients' hematopoietic recovery.

A cohesive analysis of DNA/RNA sequences via entropy, energetics and spectral-domain methods to assess genomic features across single viral diversity

In virology context, a particular virus may prevail in different forms of serotypes (as in the case of dengue 1-4 viral strains) with common and distinct genomic features. Finding such genomic details of a serogroup is useful in knowing related information for unique vaccine designs compatible for immunity across the viral diversity. For robust comparison of genomes of serovars of a virus in order to decide on their common and differential genomic details, proposed here is a set of sequence analyses exercised side-by-side via entropy, energetic and spectral-domain methods. Results obtained thereof with dengue viral serotypes, namely DEN1, DEN2, DEN3 and DEN4, are presented. Hence, inferences on distinct as well as common features extracted are annotated and indicated for possible vaccine design applications.

A novel duplex real-time PCR permits simultaneous detection and differentiation of Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato

PURPOSE

For simultaneous detection of Borrelia miyamotoi (relapsing fever spirochete) and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, we have developed a duplex real-time PCR targeting the flagellin gene (flaB; p41), a locus frequently used in routine diagnostic PCR for B. burgdorferi s.l. detection.

METHODS

Primers and probes were designed using multiple alignments of flaB sequences of B. miyamotoi and B. burgdorferi s.l. species. The sensitivity and specificity of primers and probes were determined using serial dilutions (ranging from 10(4) to 10(-1)) of B. miyamotoi and B. burgdorferi s.l. DNA and of several species of relapsing fever spirochetes. Conventional PCR on recG and glpQ and sequencing of p41 PCR products were used to confirm the species assignment.

RESULTS

The detection limit of both singleplex and duplex PCR was 10 genome equivalents except for B. spielmanii and two B. garinii genotypes which showed a detection limit of 10(2) genome equivalents. There was no cross reactivity of the B. miyamotoi primers/probes with B. burgdorferi s.l. DNA, while the B. burgdorferi s.l. primer/probe generated a signal with B. hermsii DNA. Out of 2341 Ixodes ricinus ticks from Germany and Slovakia that were screened simultaneously for the presence of B. miyamotoi and B. burgdorferi s.l., 52 were positive for B. miyamotoi and 276 for B. burgdorferi s.l., denoting an average prevalence of 2.2% for B. miyamotoi and 11.8% for B. burgdorferi s.l., and B. miyamotoi DNA was also detectable by PCR using artificial clinical samples.

CONCLUSION

The duplex real-time PCR developed here represents a method that permits simultaneous detection and differentiation of B. burgdorferi s.l. and B. miyamotoi in environmental and potentially clinical samples.

Enhanced International Prognostic Index (NCCN-IPI), Charlson Comorbidity Index and absolute lymphocyte count as predictors for survival of elderly patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma treated by immunochemotherapy

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) affects more commonly patients over 60 years. These patients have vast number of comorbidities which can modify survival as well as other clinical parameters. The aim of this study was to evaluate prognostic significance of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network International Prognostic Index (NCCN-IPI), absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), absolute monocyte count (AMC), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) and comorbidities expressed with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). A total of 182 DLBCL patients 60 years old and older were included, focusing on whole group and patients older than 70. All patients were treated with immunochemotherapy.Overall treatment response was achieved in 84.6% of patients. The NCCN-IPI was of highly prognostic value in the analyzed group (p<0.0001). Survival analysis showed that ALC>1.1x109/L, AMC≤0.59x109/L, and LMR>2.8 were associated with more favorable outcome (p=0.029, p=0.019, p=0.028, respectively). The patients with CCI≥2 had poorer outcome (p=0.008) compared to the patients with CCI 0-1. Multivariate analysis showed that among ALC, AMC, LMR, NCCN-IPI and CCI, the NCCN-IPI was the critical parameter that significantly affected survival (p<0.0001). Furthermore, comorbidities were also valuable independent factors which influenced survival (p=0.031) as well as the ALC (p=0.024). In elderly DLBCL patients, NCCN-IPI and ALC proved their prognostic validity, while poorer outcome could be expected in older patients with high CCI (≥2). Furthermore, mentioned prognostic parameters retained their prognostic value in the group of patients older than 70.

Plasma constituent integrity in pre-storage vs. post-storage riboflavin and UV-light treatment--a comparative study

Treatment of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) by riboflavin (RB) and ultraviolet (UV) light inhibits nucleic acid replication, leading to inactivation of white blood cells (WBCs) and pathogens. The goal of this study was to compare the effects of pathogen reduction technology (PRT) treatment on the plasma protein content based on biochemical, immune and hemostatic characteristics in "typical" pre-storage vs. post-storage PRT-treatment setting. Following whole blood centrifugation, separated plasma units were: (a) inactivated and frozen (pre-storage setting or control group [CG]) or (b) immediately frozen (post-storage setting or study group [SG]) afterward thawed, inactivated and stored at -40 ± 5°C (cryostorage). Plasma units were inactivated by the Mirasol PRT system (TerumoBCT, USA). Using multi-laboratory techniques and equipments, biochemistry (Advia 1800; Siemens, Germany), IgM, IgG and IgA, complement components C3 and C4 (BNA II nefelometer analyzer; Siemens, Germany), as well as CH50 activity (Behring coagulation timer; Siemens, Germany) were investigated. Procoagulant and inhibitor factors, such as antithrombin-III (AT-III), and protein C (PC) were determined by BCS XP Coagulation system (Siemens, Germany). There were neither significant changes in final protein levels, nor any differences in plasma immunoglobulin levels investigated. In the final samples CH50 activity was reduced in both investigated groups. The plasma concentration of the complement C3 following post-storage treatment was significantly (p<0.05) higher than in pre-storage setting. There was a trend of depletion of procoagulant activities in both, pre-storage and post-storage PRT-treatment (initial vs. final values), but there were no significant differences between two groups. Results confirmed that AT-III was significantly higher after post-storage inactivation. In conclusion, this study confirmed that there were not clinically relevant intergroup (pre-storage vs. post-storage PRT-treatment) differences in plasma constituent levels. Post-storage treated FFP remains, protein quantity, and activity well, and therefore can be used in clinical practice. Previously cryostored or quarantine FFP units (despite the reduced quarantine period after NAT/PCR testing) could be safely and effectively inactivated, directly prior to clinical application.