Abstract 1449: Targeting CBP/p300 and its downstream transcriptional machinery in advanced prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men in the US. There is a largely unmet clinical need to identify and develop novel strategies, that work either alone or in concert with AR-directed therapeutics, to combat CRPC. The highly conserved histone acetyltransferases CBP/p300 are potent co-activators for AR, and high p300 expression is associated with locally advanced disease and castration-resistant AR function. This study shows that CBP and p300 are highly expressed and correlate closely with AR gene expression and AR activity score in primary PCa and CRPC. By employing clinically relevant PCa models, the clinical significance of CBP/p300 expression in PCa patients as well as mechanistic evaluation of CBP/p300 transcriptional reprogramming and DNA damage response pathways have been undertaken. The molecular response to CBP/p300 inhibition will be assessed to discern novel metrics for precision medicine for PCa patients to improve therapeutic efficacy. Previous studies have relied on non-specific compounds and genetic silencing to target CBP/p300. CCS1477 (inobrodib) is a first-in-class bromodomain inhibitor developed by Cell Centric and targeted to inhibit CBP/p300 mediated bromodomain activity, and thus regulate cell survival. Inhibition of the CBP/p300 bromodomain resulted in significant downregulation of AR-FL, AR-V7, and its targets’ mRNA expression, as well as inhibition of associated factors such c-MYC and its downstream targets, in multiple PCa models. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that both CBP and p300 expression correlate with expression of genes involved in double strand break (DSB) DNA repair process including homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) in both primary PCa and CRPC models. CCS1477 directly impacted DNA damage response and repair dynamics, as shown via delay in time to resolution of DNA damage foci formation, including RAD51 and γH2AX foci. Inhibition of CBP/p300 activity decreased tumor cell proliferation, blocked CRPC xenograft growth in vivo, and decreased proliferation ex vivo in patient-derived prostate tumor explants. Importantly, CBP/p300 expression correlated with HR genes in human prostate tissue samples in different cohorts. Lastly, inhibition of CBP/p300 activity also decreased HR gene expression in patients further supporting the essential role CBP/p300 plays in DNA repair. In sum, CBP/p300 inhibition mediates HR repair and impacts patient outcome. In conclusion, these studies identify CBP/p300 as a driver of PCa tumorigenesis through coordinated control of critical transcriptional events and lay the groundwork to optimize therapeutic strategies for advanced PCa via CBP/p300 inhibition, potentially in combination with AR-directed therapies. Combined, these studies have the capacity for significant near-term impact in the prevention and/or management of metastatic disease.

Citation Format: Sumaira Sardar, Lakshmi Ravindranath, Christopher McNair, Saswati Chand, Wei Yuan, Denisa Bogdan, Jon Welti, Adam Sharp, Matthew Schiewer, Lisa Butler, Johann de Bono, Kris Frese, Nigel Brooks, Neil Pegg, Karen Knudsen, Ayesha Shafi. Targeting CBP/p300 and its downstream transcriptional machinery in advanced prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 1449.

Impact of education on the knowledge, attitude and practice of disposal of expired and unused medications among pharmacy students

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of education among pharmacy students on their level of knowledge, attitude and practices in the disposal of expired and unused medications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A pre-test post-test study without control group was conducted in which a total of 573 students pursuing Bachelor of Pharmacy and Doctor of Pharmacy programmes were enrolled. The impact of education provided was analysed with the aid of a previously validated KAP questionnaire. Data on KAP was analysed using SPSS software 24.0.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The knowledge, attitude and practice of the total students improved from 74.17±17.063 to 91.06±11.87, 75.92±19.26 to 91.73±12.318 and 43.11±22.77 to 82.06±16.149 respectively. The improvement with respect to knowledge and attitude was significantly high among Doctor of Pharmacy students when compared to Bachelor of Pharmacy, with P value<0.001 for both domains.

CONCLUSION

The present study concludes on the effectiveness of educational intervention in generating a positive impact on the student population with respective to adequate disposal practices to be followed for unused and expired medications.

A Novel Role for DNA-PK in Metabolism by Regulating Glycolysis in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE

DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs, herein referred as DNA-PK) is a multifunctional kinase of high cancer relevance. DNA-PK is deregulated in multiple tumor types, including prostate cancer, and is associated with poor outcomes. DNA-PK was previously nominated as a therapeutic target and DNA-PK inhibitors are currently undergoing clinical investigation. Although DNA-PK is well studied in DNA repair and transcriptional regulation, much remains to be understood about the way by which DNA-PK drives aggressive disease phenotypes.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Here, unbiased proteomic and metabolomic approaches in clinically relevant tumor models uncovered a novel role of DNA-PK in metabolic regulation of cancer progression. DNA-PK regulation of metabolism was interrogated using pharmacologic and genetic perturbation using in vitro cell models, in vivo xenografts, and ex vivo in patient-derived explants (PDE).

RESULTS

Key findings reveal: (i) the first-in-field DNA-PK protein interactome; (ii) numerous DNA-PK novel partners involved in glycolysis; (iii) DNA-PK interacts with, phosphorylates (in vitro), and increases the enzymatic activity of glycolytic enzymes ALDOA and PKM2; (iv) DNA-PK drives synthesis of glucose-derived pyruvate and lactate; (v) DNA-PK regulates glycolysis in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo; and (vi) combination of DNA-PK inhibitor with glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose leads to additive anti-proliferative effects in aggressive disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings herein unveil novel DNA-PK partners, substrates, and function in prostate cancer. DNA-PK impacts glycolysis through direct interaction with glycolytic enzymes and modulation of enzymatic activity. These events support energy production that may contribute to generation and/or maintenance of DNA-PK-mediated aggressive disease phenotypes.

Effect of Dickkopf-1 and colony stimulating factor-2 on the developmental competence, quality, gene expression and live birth rate of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryos produced by hand-made cloning

A functional canonical WNT signaling pathway exists in preimplantation embryos and inhibits embryonic development. Recent studies suggest that this pathway is over-expressed in nuclear transferred (NT), compared to IVF embryos. The present study investigated the effects of Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), an inhibitor of canonical WNT signaling pathway and colony stimulating factor-2 (CSF2), an embryokine, on the developmental competence, quality, gene expression and live birth rate of NT buffalo embryos produced by Hand-made cloning (HMC). Following supplementation of the in vitro culture medium on day 5 with DKK1 (100 ng/mL), CSF2 (10 ng/mL), DKK1+CSF2 or no supplementation (control), the blastocyst rate was higher (P < 0.05) with DKK1 and DKK1+CSF2 (42.6 ± 1.4% and 46.6 ± 0.9%, respectively) than with CSF2 or controls (40.6 ± 1.3% and 39.0 ± 1.3%, respectively). The apoptotic index of the blastocysts was lower (P < 0.05) for DKK1, CSF2 and DKK1+CSF2 groups (3.44 ± 0.14, 3.39 ± 0.11 and 3.11 ± 0.22, respectively) compared to controls (6.64 ± 0.25), and was similar to that of the IVF blastocysts (3.67 ± 0.18). Although the total cell number was similar for the DKK1, CSF2, DKK1+CSF2 and control groups (200.4 ± 3.05, 196.4 ± 3.73, 204.7 ± 3.71 and 205 ± 4.03, respectively), the inner cell mass:trophectoderm cell number ratio of DKK1, CSF2 and DKK1+CSF2 groups (0.21 ± 0.01, 0.17 ± 0.01 and 0.22 ± 0.02, respectively) was higher (P < 0.05) than controls (0.13 ± 0.01) and was similar to that of IVF blastocysts (0.19 ± 0.01). Treatment with DKK1 or CSF2 or both increased (P < 0.05) the expression level of OCT4, NANOG,SOX2, GATA6, BCL2, PTEN, P53, FGF4, GLUT1 and IFN-τ, and decreased that of C-MYC, CDX2, CASPASE, DNMT3a, TCF7 and LEF1 in blastocysts, compared to controls. Transfer of DKK1-treated embryos to 13 recipients resulted in 4 pregnancies (30.8%; 2 live births, one abortion and one currently at 9 months of pregnancy) whereas, transfer of DKK1+CSF2-treated embryos to 16 recipients, resulted in 4 pregnancies (25.0%), all of which resulted in live births. No pregnancy was obtained after transfer of control and CSF-treated embryos to 12 and 16 recipients, respectively. These results suggest that DKK1 treatment of NT embryos increases the blastocyst, conception and live birth rate, and improves their quality whereas, CSF2 treatment, does not affect the blastocyst, conception and live birth rate despite improvement in embryo quality.

Jamun fruit (Syzgium cumini) skin extract based indicator for monitoring chicken patties quality during storage

Natural plant pigment, anthocyanins have the capability to change its color with the change of its structure influenced by changing pH. This feature of anthocyanin has been harnessed to design a meat products quality indicator. In the present experiment anthocyanin rich Jamun fruit (Syzgium cumini) skin extract was used to develop quality indicator by immobilizing on filter paper strips with the purpose of application in chicken patties packets stored at refrigeration temperature (4 ± 1 °C). The indicator changed its color from violet to yellow due to changed pH in it when it was attached inside packet of chicken patties during storage, due to reaction with volatile basic compounds generated from meat. During storage for 21 days, various changes in quality attributes of chicken patties viz., pH, Total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN), ammonia level, color value, sensory attributes and microbial evaluation were estimated. The pH decreased (P < 0.5) from 6.22 to 6.04. TVBN and ammonia and level increased significantly (P < 0.5) throughout storage. Redness, yellowness, hue and chroma value gradually changed during storage. Sensory scores also decreased significantly (P < 0.5). Microbial count also increased (P < 0.5) during this time. The experiment showed that, during storage, the color changing pattern of quality indicator was well correlated with the changes in quality attributes of chicken meat patties. Therefore, it is expected that the developed quality indicator can provide a convenient, non destructive, visual mean to monitor the meat products quality during refrigerated storage.

Abstract 3058: Recharacterizing the FDA approved drug pyrvinium pamoate as a clinically relevant HuR inhibitor in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

HuR is an RNA binding protein involved in a coordinated cellular survival response to stressors. Upon insults such as chemotherapy, HuR translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm where it binds the 3’UTR of target mRNAs. HuR’s interaction with target mRNAs leads to the upregulation of target genes and ultimately treatment resistance. This is particularly relevant in the case of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). PDA is highly resistant to radiotherapy and standard chemotherapy such as FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel. Using a tumor microarray (TMA), we found 79% of patient tumor samples (n=70) were positive for active cytoplasmic HuR, while little to no cytoplasmic localization was detected in normal tissue. In addition, HuR CRISPR knockout cell lines have a xenograft lethal phenotype. The aim of our current study is to target HuR by re-purposing the anti-helminthic, FDA approved small molecule pyrvinium pamoate (PP) to inhibit HuR’s translocation and sensitize PDA cells to concurrent therapies. PP has been shown in bladder cancer to inhibit the translocation of HuR in vitro and in vivo. We have reproduced this in multiple PDA cell lines and have shown impressive drug potency with IC50s as low as 38nM in 2D cultures of PDA cell lines and PDX lines and 16nM in a 3D mouse PDA organoid model. We have demonstrated that inhibition of HuR translocation is likely to occur through secondary effectors AMPK and CDK1. We have also demonstrated that PP’s inhibition of HuR function may be through direct inhibition of target binding. In comparison to other published HuR inhibitors PP inhibits the binding of HuR to targets more potentlt with nanomolar IC50’s. We confirmed this work through HuR RNA Immunoprecipitation experiments and determined that PP inhibited the ability of HuR to bind target mRNA. We generated HuR deficient CRISPR lines to and demonstrated that lack of HuR sensitizes PDA cells to various therapeutics, an effect which is exacerbated in physiologically relevant low glucose settings. We next demonstrated that PP can synergize with several therapeutics including the CDK4/6 inhibitors Abemaciclib and Palbociclib in PDA cells and that this synergy is increased in low glucose setting. This synergistic effect is ameliorated in HuR deficient CRISPR cell lines, indicating that PP achieves this synergistic potential through the inhibition of HuR. We performed targeted phosphoproteomics and found that PP robustly inhibited critical mTOR pathway members as well as validating previous reports that it can inhibit the WNT pathway. Finally, we have demonstrated that PP has a dose dependent effect on PDA tumor growth in vivo with IP and PO dosing regimens. This work supports the recharacterization of PP as a potentially effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of PDA. Early phase clinical trials of PP in human subjects are being planned for 2019.

Citation Format: Christopher W. Schultz, Teena Dhir, Samantha Z. Brown, Saswati Chand, Wei Jiang, Grace A. McCarthy, Alex O. Haber, Charles J. Yeo, Austin Goetz, Avinoam Nevler, Oloruntoba Bolaji, Jonathan R. Brody. Recharacterizing the FDA approved drug pyrvinium pamoate as a clinically relevant HuR inhibitor in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma [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 3058.

Relapse following use of Ponseti method in idiopathic clubfoot

PURPOSE

We assessed the pattern of relapse as well as the correlation between the number of casts required for correction and Pirani and Dimeglio scores at presentation, and age at presentation. We hypothesized that the Ponseti method would be effective in treatment of relapsed clubfoot as well.

METHODS

We evaluated 115 idiopathic clubfeet in 79 children presenting with relapse following treatment by the Ponseti method. The mean age was 33.8 months with mean follow-up of 24 months. All patients were assessed for various patterns of relapsed deformities. Quantification of deformities was done using the Pirani and Dimeglio scores. All relapsed feet were treated by a repeat Ponseti protocol.

RESULTS

Non-compliance to a foot abduction brace was observed to be the main contributing factor in relapse, in 99 clubfeet (86%). Combination of three static deformities (equinus, varus and adduction) together was observed most commonly (38.3% feet). Overall, relapse of equinus deformity was noted most commonly followed by adduction. A painless plantigrade foot was obtained in all 115 feet with a mean of five casts. In all, 71 feet (61.7%) underwent percutaneous tenotomy. A total of 15 feet (13%) required tibialis anterior tendon transfer. Re-relapse rate in group 1 was 21% compared with 12.6% in group 2 and overall 16.5%.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the Ponseti method is effective and the preferred initial treatment modality for relapsed clubfeet. Surgical intervention should be reserved for residual deformity only after a fair trial of Ponseti cast treatment. Regular follow-up and strict adherence to brace protocol may reduce future relapse rates. Further research is required to identify high-risk feet and develop individualized bracing protocol.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

A Two-Site, Monoclonal Antibody-Based Immunoassay for von Willebrand Factor -Demonstration that vWF Function Resides in a Conformational Epitope

Two monoclonal antibodies (RFF-VIII: R/l and RFF-VIII:R/ 2) which recognise the same epitope on von Willebrand factor (vWF) have been used in a simple, two-site, solid-phase immunoradiometric (IRMA) or enzyme-linked assay (ELISA) to analyse vWF in plasma from normal individuals and from patients with von Willebrand’s disease (vWD). Results obtained confirm our previous findings (using RFF-VIII :R/2 in a one-site, fluid-phase IRMA) that the MAbs detect the presence of an epitope on the vWF molecule that reflects its function. This epitope is involved in vWF binding to the GPIb protein on platelets. It is reduced in all types of vWD, including type II (or variant) vWD. It is present in normal plasma, in vWF released from normal platelets and from cultured umbilical cord vein endothelial cells. The epitope is, however, found to be reduced in serum. Studies on SDS-treated vWF prove that this GPIb-binding site is dependent on the conformation of the vWF multimers.

Abstract 1961: Gaps in the armor: Targeting HuR to sensitize pancreatic cancer

HuR is an RNA binding protein involved in a coordinated cellular response to stressors. Upon insults such as chemotherapy or radiation treatment, HuR translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm where it binds the 3'UTR of target mRNAs. HuR's interaction with target mRNAs leads to the upregulation of target genes and ultimately treatment resistance. This is particularly relevant in the case of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). PDA is highly resistant to standard chemotherapy such as FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel. Using a tumor microarray (TMA), we found 79% of patient tumor samples (n=70) were positive for active cytoplasmic HuR, while little to no cytoplasmic localization was detected in normal tissue. In addition, HuR CRISPR knockout cell lines have a xenograft lethal phenotype. Previously published data also demonstrated that reduction of HuR in xenografts with a DOX-inducible shRNA system caused a 3.6 fold decrease in tumor size. HuR reduction was also shown to potentiate a PARP-inhibitor (olaparib) treatment from a 5.6-fold reduction alone to 9.3-fold reduction in tumor size when combined with shHuR, demonstrating the role of HuR in drug resistance. The aim of our current study was: A) to target HuR directly using nanoparticle delivery of siRNA against HuR; and B) to use the FDA approved small molecule pyrvinium pamoate (PP) to inhibit HuR's translocation and sensitize PDA cells to concurrent therapies. Using 3DNA, a 60nm nanoparticle composed of a sphere of crosslinked DNA, we have successfully delivered siRNA against HuR in vivo utilizing targeting moieties against receptors known to be overexpressed on the surface of PDA cells: EGFR, folic acid receptor, and transferrin receptor. Bi-weekly IP treatment of siHuR bound to 3DNA was safe and effective at extending life in a xenograft model as indicated by Kaplan Meier analysis (p=0.01). We are currently testing siHuR-3DNA dendrimer therapy's ability to sensitize PDA cells to oxaliplatin or olaparib in vivo. We are also investigating the use of PP to target HuR's localization. PP has previously been shown in bladder cancer to inhibit the translocation of HuR in vitro and in vivo. We have reproduced this finding in PDA cells, and have shown impressive drug potency with IC50s as low as 38nM in 2D cultures and 16nM in a 3D mouse PDA organoid model. Combination index (CI) values determine drugs interactions where 1 is additive, &lt;1 is synergistic and &gt;1 is antagonistic. We have determined that PP can enhance therapies such as gemcitabine (CI of 0.55), olaparib (CI of 0.40) and palbociclib (CI of 0.37) in vitro, and are currently validating these findings in vivo. Taken together, our data demonstrate that HuR inhibition via 3DNA delivery of siHuR and/or PP treatment can sensitize PDA cells to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. By inhibiting a resistance driver (HuR) in pancreatic cancer we aim to improve current therapies for this devastating disease.

Citation Format: Christopher W. Schultz, Kevin O'Hayer, Teena Dhir, Oloruntoba Bolaji, Kathryn M. Bormes, Samantha Z. Brown, Henry Thomsett, Saswati Chand, Aditi Jain, Wei Jiang, Grace McCarthy, Charles J. Yeo, Austin Goetz, Avinoam Nevler, Jonathan R. Brody, Jordan M. Winter, Ranjan Preet, Dan Dixon, Jessica Bowers, Kelly Rhodes, Robert Getts. Gaps in the armor: Targeting HuR to sensitize pancreatic cancer [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 1961.

A Facile Access to trans-3-Styryl-4-hydrazinocyclopentenes via Palladium­-Catalyzed Ring Opening of Diazanorbornenes with (Z)-β-Bromostyrenes/2,3-Dibromohydrocinnamic Acids

trans-3-Styryl-4-hydrazinocyclopentenes have been synthesized via palladium-catalyzed desymmetrization of diazanorbornenes with (Z)-β-bromostyrenes. The reaction also works well with (Z)-β-bromostyrenes generated in situ from 2,3-dibromohydrocinnamic acids. The synthesized hydrazinocyclopentenes provide an easy route towards synthetic intermediates of many scaffolds of biological potential.

Abstract LB-B19: Re-sensitizing Pancreatic Cancer, targeted siRNA inhibition of HuR

We have demonstrated that 3DNA nanocarriers can specifically, effectively, and safely deliver siRNA oligos targeted against a pro-survival hub, HuR (the ELAVL1 gene) in an in vivo, pre-clinical model of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers with an overall 5 year survival rate of 9%; and is on pace to become the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the U.S. by 2020. Pancreatic cancer is so deadly, in part, because it is highly refractory to standard chemotherapeutics. In fact, new standard of care regiments such as FOLFIRINOX have only improved survival by a few months. Our previous work has established HuR as a target in pancreatic cancer. HuR is an RNA binding protein that is primarily retained in the nucleus, but upon exposure to cancer associated stressors translocates to the cytoplasm. In the cytoplasm, HuR functions to bind, stabilize, and up-regulate expression of pro-survival target mRNAs. CRISPR-mediated deletion of HuR causes a xenograft lethal phenotype in vivo and increases sensitivity to a variety of drugs, particularly PARP inhibitor therapy, enhancing Olaparib therapy over 20-fold in vitro. In an independent doxycycline inducible knockdown model, HuR depletion combined with Olaparib treatment resulted in a 9.3 fold (p&lt;.001) decrease in tumor volume in vivo. Based on these findings and our previous published work, we have launched into a line of investigation attempting to target HuR in pancreatic cancer cells. We have delivered siHuR oligos tethered to 3DNA nanostructures (Genisphere, LLC) in a targeted fashion using either a folic acid targeting moiety, a transferrin receptor targeted antibody, or an EGFR targeted antibody (i.e., siHuR nanotherapy). Additionally, we are working to combine siHuR nanotherapy with conventional therapeutics. 3DNA nanocarriers are constructed using stable DNA strands assembled and crosslinked in a stepwise fashion, to create a layered nanoscaffold capable of attaching multiple different targeting moieties and deliverables. The siRNA oligos hybridized to the 3DNA were modified in order to withstand systemic RNases during treatment. We first validated the modified siHuR nanotherapy in vitro by evaluating protein and RNA levels of HuR. Second, we validated the expression of our intended targeting moieties in both human cell lines and a tissue microarray consisting of patient derived pancreatic cancer tumors. For the mouse studies, athymic female nude mice were injected with 4 million MIA PaCa-2 cells per flank, and randomized to treatment arms when tumors reached 100mm3. Mice were then treated intraperitoneally twice weekly with either siHuR or siControl nanotherapies (3ug siRNA per treatment) with one of the three targeting moieties. We demonstrated efficacy of systemic targeted delivery of siHuR nanotherapy which improved average overall survival by 35% (p=.012) compared to the control arm, with an increase in survival using a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (p=.01). We are currently setting up treatments with siHuR nanotherapy in conjunction with a targeted treatment strategy, Olaparib, which has previously been shown to work in conjunction with dox-inducible HuR silencing (i.e.,shRNA targeting) in vivo. Herein, we describe the development of siHuR nanotherapy that, as a monotherapy or most likely with clinically available drugs, may improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Citation Format: Chris W. Schultz, Kevin O'Hayer, Kathryn M. Bormes, Teena Dhir, Samantha Brown, Avinoam Nevlar, Saswati Chand, Henry Thomsett, Wei Jiang, Jessica Bowers, Kelly Rhodes, Michael Pishvaian, Robert Getts, Jonathan Brody. Re-sensitizing Pancreatic Cancer, targeted siRNA inhibition of HuR [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2017 Oct 26-30; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2018;17(1 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-B19.

Efficiency of uterine fluid cytology in the diagnosis of subclinical endometritis in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

This study compared endometrial cytology vis-a-vis uterine fluid cytology for assessment of uterine health in clinically normal and subclinical endometritis (SE)-affected buffaloes. Uterine fluid samples and endometrial samples were collected from the buffaloes (n = 38) at oestrus using blue sheath and cytobrush, respectively. The smears were stained with Field stain for 3 minutes, and a minimum of 400 cells were counted in each smear for determination of the percentage of polymorphonuclear (PMN) leucocyte. The incidence of subclinical endometritis, based on the cytobrush cytology, was 23.08%. The correlation between cytobrush cytology with uterine fluid cytology was positive and significant (r = .37; p = .02). The ratio of PMN leucocyte in cytobrush cytology to uterine fluid cytology was 1:2.4. ROC analysis revealed that the threshold value of 6.16% PMN leucocyte in uterine fluid cytology showed a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100% in differentiating normal from SE-affected buffaloes. In conclusion, collection of uterine fluid was easier compared to collection of endometrial samples using cytobrush and the percentage of PMN leucocyte in uterine fluid cytology can be used as a tool for diagnosis of subclinical endometritis in buffaloes.

Abstract 2854: CRISPR knockout of HuR in pancreatic cancer cells causes a xenograft lethal phenotype

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is the most prevalent type of pancreatic cancer and will soon become the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the U.S. Studies show that the nuclear localized mRNA-binding protein HuR (ELAVL1) is activated in PDA cells, with cytoplasmic translocation associated with increased tumor size and poor prognosis. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have established HuR's role as a PDA cell survival mechanism. Thus, we explored the phenotypic effect of completely eliminating HuR expression from PDA cells through the use of clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 technology to target and disrupt the HuR genomic sequence. Since INDELs are induced randomly, we designed 3 gRNAs to target HuR at different loci. Gene disruption was determined via sequencing and validated through protein and mRNA expression, where homozygous knockouts (HuR−/−) had undetectable HuR expression as compared to wild-type (HuR+/+), heterozygotes (HuR+/−), and CRISPR/Cas9 negative control. Sanger sequencing confirmed homozygous knockouts with a frame shift mutation on both alleles. When HuR knockout cells were exposed to chemotherapeutic stress including mitomycin C, oxaliplatin, and gemcitabine, no HuR expression (nuclear or cytoplasmic) was detected via immunofluorescence. Phenotypically, HuR−/− cells resulted in increased apoptosis and necrosis as measured via trypan blue assay, and accordingly, had increased caspase 3 activity, a marker of a cell death. HuR−/− cells, when treated with mitomycin C, oxaliplatin, gemcitabine, and glucose deprivation exhibited decreased long and short-term cell survival as compared to control cells. HuR−/− cells, pulse-labeled with bromodeoxyurdine (BrdU), had a higher proportion of cells in S phase and fewer cells in G2/M phase. HuR deletion enhanced premature mitotic entry thereby preventing efficient repair of DNA damage, leading to cell death. Importantly, CRISPR knockout of HuR showed marked impairment in tumor growth in mouse xenografts. The differences in median tumor volume with HuR−/- xenografts was significant as compared to xenografts in mice with HuR(+/+) cells (0.0 mm3 vs 378.0 mm3, P &lt; 0.005). Taken together with our past work in patient samples, this pre-clinical model demonstrates that HuR is essential for PDA growth in vivo. Future work will develop strategies to target HuR either as a monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapies.

Citation Format: Edwin Cheung, Shruti Lal, Mahsa Zarei, Nicole C. Mambelli-Lisboa, Saswati Chand, Carmella Romeo, Kevin O’Hayer, Eric Londin, Joseph A. Cozzitorto, Charles J. Yeo, Jordan M. Winter, Jonathan R. Brody. CRISPR knockout of HuR in pancreatic cancer cells causes a xenograft lethal phenotype. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2854.

Meat analog: a review

The health-conscious consumers are in search of nutritious and convenient food item which can be best suited in their busy life. The vegetarianism is the key for the search of such food which resembles the meat in respect of nutrition and sensory characters, but not of animal origin and contains vegetable or its modified form, this is the point when meat analog evolved out and gets shape. The consumers gets full satisfaction by consumption of meat analog due to its typical meaty texture, appearance and the flavor which are being imparted during the skilled production of meat analog. The supplement of protein in vegetarian diet through meat alike food can be fulfilled by incorporating protein-rich vegetative food grade materials in meat analog and by adopting proper technological process which can promote the proper fabrication of meat analog with acceptable meat like texture, appearance, flavor, etc. The easily available vegetables, cereals, and pulses in India have great advantages and prospects to be used in food products and it can improve the nutritional and functional characters of the food items. The various form and functional characters of food items are available world over and attracts the meat technologists and the food processors to bring some innovativeness in meat analog and its presentation and marketability so that the acceptability of meat analog can be overgrown by the consumers.

Cytomegalovirus-Associated CD4(+) CD28(null) Cells in NKG2D-Dependent Glomerular Endothelial Injury and Kidney Allograft Dysfunction

Emerging data suggest that expansion of a circulating population of atypical, cytotoxic CD4(+) T cells lacking costimulatory CD28 (CD4(+) CD28(null) cells) is associated with latent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. The purpose of the current study was to increase the understanding of the relevance of these cells in 100 unselected kidney transplant recipients followed prospectively for a median of 54 months. Multicolor flow cytometry of peripheral blood mononuclear cells before transplantation and serially posttransplantation was undertaken. CD4(+) CD28(null) cells were found predominantly in CMV-seropositive patients and expanded in the posttransplantation period. These cells were predominantly effector-memory phenotype and expressed markers of endothelial homing (CX3CR1) and cytotoxicity (NKG2D and perforin). Isolated CD4(+) CD27(-) CD28(null) cells proliferated in response to peripheral blood mononuclear cells previously exposed to CMV-derived (but not HLA-derived) antigens and following such priming incubation with glomerular endothelium resulted in signs of endothelial damage and apoptosis (release of fractalkine and von Willebrand factor; increased caspase 3 expression). This effect was mitigated by NKG2D-blocking antibody. Increased CD4(+) CD28(null) cell frequencies were associated with delayed graft function and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate at end follow-up. This study suggests an important role for this atypical cytotoxic CD4(+) CD28(null) cell subset in kidney transplantation and points to strategies that may minimize the impact on clinical outcomes.

The Landscape of Pancreatic Cancer Therapeutic Resistance Mechanisms

Pancreatic cancer (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, PDA) is infamously moving to the top of the list as one of the most lethal cancers with an overall 5 year survival rate of 7%. Multiple genomic-based and molecular characterization studies of PDA specimens and established animal models have provided the field with multiple targets and a progression model of this disease. Still, to date, the best therapeutic options are surgery and combination cytotoxic therapies. In general, even in the best case scenario (i.e., an early stage diagnosis and a response to a specific therapy), most of these fortunate patients' PDA cells acquire or exert resistance mechanisms and eventually kill the patient. Herein, we touch on a growing field of investigation that focuses on PDA cell therapeutic resistance mechanisms. We examine extrinsic elements (i.e., the tumor microenvironment, hypoxia) to the intrinsic processes within the cell (i.e., post-transcriptional gene regulation and somatic mutations) that are important for therapeutic efficacy and resistance. Even as better targeted and personalized approaches move through the clinical trial pipeline the discussed resistance mechanisms will most likely play a role in the management of this deadly disease.

Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms implicate mTOR signalling in the development of new-onset diabetes after transplantation

Introduction

Despite excellent first year outcomes in kidney transplantation, there remain significant long-term complications related to new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT). The purpose of this study was to validate the findings of previous investigations of candidate gene variants in patients undergoing a protocolised, contemporary immunosuppression regimen, using detailed serial biochemical testing to identify NODAT development.

Methods

One hundred twelve live and deceased donor renal transplant recipients were prospectively followed-up for NODAT onset, biochemical testing at days 7, 90, and 365 after transplantation. Sixty-eight patients were included after exclusion for non-white ethnicity and pre-transplant diabetes. Literature review to identify candidate gene variants was undertaken as described previously.

Results

Over 25% of patients developed NODAT. In an adjusted model for age, sex, BMI, and BMI change over 12 months, five out of the studied 37 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were significantly associated with NODAT: rs16936667:PRDM14 OR 10.57;95% CI 1.8–63.0;p = 0.01, rs1801282:PPARG OR 8.5; 95% CI 1.4–52.7; p = 0.02, rs8192678:PPARGC1A OR 0.26; 95% CI 0.08–0.91; p = 0.03, rs2144908:HNF4A OR 7.0; 95% CI 1.1–45.0;p = 0.04 and rs2340721:ATF6 OR 0.21; 95%CI 0.04–1.0; p = 0.05.

Conclusion

This study represents a replication study of candidate SNPs associated with developing NODAT and implicates mTOR as the central regulator via altered insulin sensitivity, pancreatic β cell, and mitochondrial survival and dysfunction as evidenced by the five SNPs.

General significance

1)

Highlights the importance of careful biochemical phenotyping with oral glucose tolerance tests to diagnose NODAT in reducing time to diagnosis and missed cases.

2)

This alters potential genotype:phenotype association.

3)

The replication study generates the hypothesis that mTOR signalling pathway may be involved in NODAT development.

•

Oral glucose tolerance tests reduce time to NODAT diagnosis and missed cases

•

Biochemical testing changes genotype:phenotype association

•

mTOR signalling pathway may be involved in NODAT development

Transitional B lymphocytes are associated with protection from kidney allograft rejection: a prospective study

Recent cross-sectional studies suggest an important role for transitional B lymphocytes (CD19 + CD24hiCD38hi) in promoting transplant tolerance, and protecting from late antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR). However, prospective studies are lacking. This study enrolled 73 de novo transplant recipients, and collected serial clinical, immunological and biochemical information over 48 ± 6 months. Cell phenotyping was conducted immediately prior to transplantation, and then on five occasions during the first year posttransplantation. When modeled as a time-dependent covariate, transitional B cell frequencies (but not total B cells or "regulatory" T cells) were associated with protection from acute rejection (any Banff grade; HR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.37-0.95; p = 0.03). No association between transitional B cell proportions and either de novo donor-specific or nondonor-specific antibody (dnDSA; dnNDSA) formation was evident, although preserved transitional B cell proportions were associated with reduced rejection rates in those patients developing dnDSA. Three episodes of ABMR occurred, all in the context of nonadherence, and all associated with in vitro anti-HLA T cell responses in an ELISPOT assay (p = 0.008 versus antibody-positive patients not experiencing ABMR). This prospective study supports the potential relevance of transitional ("regulatory") B cells as a biomarker and therapeutic intervention in transplantation, and highlights relationships between humoral immunity, cellular immunity and nonadherence.

Studying RNA-binding protein interactions with target mRNAs in eukaryotic cells: native ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays

Post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA can potently dictate protein expression patterns in eukaryotic cells. This mode of regulation occurs through cis-acting regulatory regions in the mRNA transcript that mediate direct interactions with trans-acting RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). This mRNA/protein interaction can be studied in numerous ways that range from in vitro to in vivo through messenger ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation (mRNP-IP or RIP) assays. This modified immunoprecipitation approach is an important and sensitive method to determine the regulation of gene expression by specific RBPs under different cellular stressors.

FT-IR, FT-Raman and UV spectroscopic investigation, electronic properties, electric moments, and NBO analysis of anethole using quantum chemical calculations

FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of anethole (1-Methoxy-4-(1-propenyl)benzene), a flavoring agent of commercial value, have been recorded in the regions 4000-400 and 4000-100cm(-1) respectively. The structure of the title molecule has been optimized and the structural parameters have been calculated by DFT/B3LYP method with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The fundamental vibrational wavenumbers as well as their intensities were calculated and a good agreement between observed and scaled calculated wavenumbers has been achieved. UV-Vis spectrum of the title compound was recorded in the region 200-500nm and the electronic properties such as HOMO and LUMO energies and associated energy gap were calculated by Time dependent-density functional theory (TD-DFT) approach. Nonlinear optical (NLO) study divulges the nonlinear properties of the molecule. Stability of the title molecule arising from hyper-conjugative interactions and charge delocalization has been investigated using natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. The theoretical results were found to be in coherence with the measured experimental data.

Microbial degradation of chitin waste for production of chitosanase and food related bioactive compounds

Ecological samples rich in microbial diversity like cow dung, legume rhizosphere, fish waste and garden soil were used for isolation of chitosan-degrading microorganisms. Selected isolates were used for production of chitosanase and food related bioactive compounds by conversion of biowaste. Production of glucosamine (Gln), N-acetylglucosamine (NAG), chitooligosaccharides (COS), antioxidants, antibacterial compounds and prebiotics was carried out by microbial fermentation of biowaste. The highest chitosanase activity (8 U/mL) was observed in Aspergillus sp. isolated from fish market waste and it could produce Gln and NAG while Streptomyces sp. isolated from garden soil was able to produce COS along with Gln and NAG. Radical scavenging activity was observed in culture supernatants of 35% of studied isolates, and 20% isolates secreted compounds which showed positive effect on growth of Bifidobacterium. Antibacterial compounds were produced by 40% of selected isolates and culture supernatants of two microbial isolates, Streptomyces zaomyceticus C6 and one of garden soil isolates, were effective against both gram positive and negative bacteria.

Band gap engineered P3HT/CdPbS composites for utilization of low energy photons

In the present study, CdPbS composite has been synthesized in the P3HT matrix in a single step. The synthesis has been carried out at a temperature of 120 degrees C by the decomposition of xanthate compound in the polymer matrix. This synthesis method helps in proper distribution of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. The synthesized materials were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microcopy, photoluminescence (PL) and time resolved florescence spectroscopy. The P3HT/CdPbS nanoparticle composite can absorb photon in the range of 0.7 eV to 2.7 eV and a charge transfer between CdPbS and P3HT has been observed. It has been proposed that this composite may increase both the Voc as well as Jsc by better utilization of solar spectrum and increased charge transfer.

Band gap engineering from Vis to NIR range in CdPbS nanoparticles synthesized by one-step low-temperature decomposition of xanthate compound

In the present study, a generic method for the modification of optical band gap of CdS nanostructures material over a wide spectral range due to Pb doping and formation of Cd(1-x)Pb(x)S nanoparticles and its size confinement is reported. The composite investigated in this study was grown by thermal decomposition of metal xanthates and lead concentration was varied to obtain different lead doping. This is a direct decomposition one pot synthesis route that avoids use of toxic phosphine and injection of chemicals during the reaction. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, SEM, EDX, and HRTEM. The optical absorption properties of the Cd(1-x)Pb(x)S nanostructures were investigated by UV-visible spectroscopy. Cd(1-x)Pb(x)S nanoparticles showed tuning of the band gap from 2.7 eV to 0.7 eV.

CYP17A1 gene polymorphisms and environmental exposure to organochlorine pesticides contribute to the risk of small for gestational age

OBJECTIVES

The cytochrome P-450c17α enzyme encoded by the cytochrome P-450c17α (CYP17A1) gene plays a role in oestrogen synthesis. Genetic variation in the maternal CYP17A1 gene leads to differences in oestrogen level that affect fetal growth and cause small for gestational age (SGA). Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are endocrine disruptors that alter the normal oestrogen-progesterone balance, and are associated with adverse reproductive outcomes. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the gene-environment interaction between maternal CYP17A1 gene polymorphisms and maternal and cord OCP levels on the risk of SGA.

STUDY DESIGN

Maternal and cord blood samples of 50 term SGA cases (birth weight <10th percentile for gestational age as per Lubchenco's growth chart) and 50 normal pregnancies (controls) were collected. Women with occupational exposure to OCPs, anaemia, hypertension, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, medical disease, parity of more than four, or a history of smoking, alcohol consumption or chronic drug intake were excluded from both groups. Maternal and cord blood samples were collected at the time of delivery or after delivery, respectively. The OCP levels of the samples were analyzed using a gas chromatography system equipped with an electron capture detector, and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was used for polymorphic analysis of the CYP17A1 gene.

RESULTS

Significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of α-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), β-HCH and γ-HCH were found in maternal and cord blood samples of the SGA cases compared with the controls. The frequency of the A1A2/A2A2 genotype was significantly lower [p=0.041, odds ratio (OR) 0.421, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.184-0.966] in the SGA cases compared with the controls. When gene-environment interactions between CYP17A1 gene polymorphisms and OCP levels were considered, a significant (p=0.004) association was found between a high level of endosulfan in cord blood and the A1A1 (wild-type) genotype of CYP17A1, leading to an estimated reduction in birth weight of 315g.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher OCP levels and the A1A1 genotype of CYP17A1 in pregnant women may be considered as important aetiological factors in idiopathic SGA. This study provides evidence that genetic variation and its interaction with environmental exposure may increase the risk of SGA. Further studies are needed with a larger sample size, incorporating other gene polymorphisms and environmental exposures, to strengthen these observations.

Abstract 5394: HuR affects pancreatic cancer metabolism through post-transcriptional control of core metabolic enzymes

Background: HuR is an RNA-binding protein that translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm with its mRNA cargo in response to stress, and regulates mRNA stability and translation of these transcripts. HuR has been implicated as an important regulator of pro-survival pathways in cancer, and increased cytoplasmic expression of HuR has been observed in numerous cancer types. The regulatory mechanisms of metabolic pathways under metabolic stress are poorly understood. We investigated HuR's role in regulating pancreatic cancer metabolism.

Methods: We measured HuR cytoplasmic expression in pancreatic cancer cells in response to glucose deprivation. Ribonucleoprotein precipitation (RIP) of HuR was performed to survey candidate metabolic mRNA targets. HuR levels were depleted with siRNA oligos under metabolic stress, and effects on cell survival, biochemicals in the media, and metabolic enzyme targets were determined. Experiments were performed in MiaPaca2, BXPC3, Panc1 cell lines.

Results: Cytoplasmic protein expression of HuR was increased by immunoblot and immunofluorescence after 6 hours of glucose deprivation in all 3 cell lines (vs. 25 mM glucose). In addition, HuR depletion with siRNA impaired survival in of all 3 cell lines in low glucose media (&lt;10 mM) at 7 days by PicoGreen. Overexpression of HuR had a protective effect under glucose deprivation in Panc1 cells. Surprisingly, HuR depletion resulted in increased glucose uptake in MiaPaca2 and BxPC3 cells. RIP-qPCR and immunoblot experiments ruled out GLUT1 as a mediator of this effect. In all 3 cell lines, lactate production decreased with HuR depletion. RIP assays of enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism identified 11 novel metabolic targets of HuR in MiaPaca2 cells: glycogen metabolism (GBE1, GSK3β); glycolysis (GPI, PGK1, HK2); Krebs cycle (IDH1, IDH3A, CS); and pentose phosphate pathway (PRPS2, RPIA, and RPE). Validation RIP-qPCR was performed for 3 enzymes (GPI, IDH1, PRPS2) in BXPC3 and Panc1 cells. In addition, HuR depletion resulted in decreased mRNA expression of these 3 genes in MiaPaca2 cells. Decreased protein expression of these 3 targets was observed in each of the cells lines. Incubation of MiaPaca2 cells in 1 mM glucose resulted in increased cytoplasmic HuR protein expression at 12 hours, and increased protein levels of all 3 metabolic targets at 48 hours.

Conclusions: HuR cytoplasmic expression is critical for pancreatic cancer cell survival under glucose deprivation. HuR likely supports a ‘Warburg’ phenotype characterized by increased lactate production. Surprisingly, HuR activation led to decreased glucose uptake. Novel metabolic targets of HuR were identified, and coordination of these targets may be responsible for the observed findings. Improved understanding of how HuR acutely regulates metabolism in response to stress should uncover novel therapeutic targets against pancreatic cancer.

Citation Format: Jordan M. Winter, Richard A. Burkhart, Danielle M. Pineda, Saswati Chand, Joseph Cozzitorto, Charles J. Yeo, Jonathan R. Brody. HuR affects pancreatic cancer metabolism through post-transcriptional control of core metabolic enzymes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5394. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-5394

Molecular mechanism of indomethacin-induced gastropathy

The probable cross talk among large numbers of inflammatory and angiogenic parameters in indomethacin (IND)-induced gastropathy and the associated signaling mechanism were studied in a mouse model. A single dose of IND (18 mg/kg, po) produced robust gastric ulceration in mice without any mortality, which peaked on the third day, but started healing from the fifth day onward. The ulceration was associated with increased myeloperoxidase activity and expression of proinflammatory (TNF-α, adhesion molecules, COX-2) and antiangiogenic (endostatin) parameters. The levels of proangiogenic factors such as COX-1, prostaglandin E, VEGF, and von Willebrand factor VIII were downregulated by IND. Our results revealed that although the maximal and minimal levels of these parameters were attained sequentially at different time points, TNF-α upregulation was the primary event to initiate and induce gastric ulceration. IND also activated NF-κB and all the MAP kinases, but only the inhibitors of TNF-α, NF-κB, and JNK MAP kinase could abrogate the IND-induced damages. Further TNF-α inhibition also reduced the IND-mediated activation of NF-κB and JNK MAP kinase. All this evidence strongly suggests that mitigation of TNF-α may offer a potential solution to IND-mediated gastropathy.