Analysis of a miR-148a Targetome in B Cell Central Tolerance

A microRNA (miRNA) often regulates the expression of hundreds of target genes. A fundamental question in the field of miRNA research is whether a miRNA exerts its biological function through regulating a small number of key targets or through small changes in the expression of hundreds of target genes. We addressed this issue by performing functional analysis of target genes regulated by miR-148a. We previously identified miR-148a as a critical regulator of B cell central tolerance and found 119 target genes that may mediate its function. We selected 4 of them for validation and demonstrated a regulatory role for Bim, Pten, and Gadd45a in this process. In this study, we performed functional analysis of the other miR-148a target genes in in vitro and in vivo models of B cell central tolerance. Our results show that those additional target genes play a minimal role, if any, in miR-148a-mediated control of B cell central tolerance, suggesting that the function of miRNAs is mediated by a few key target genes. These findings have advanced our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying miRNA regulation of gene expression and B cell central tolerance.

European experts consensus: BRCA/homologous recombination deficiency testing in first-line ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Homologous recombination repair (HRR) enables fault-free repair of double-stranded DNA breaks. HRR deficiency is predicted to occur in around half of high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas. Ovarian cancers harbouring HRR deficiency typically exhibit sensitivity to poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). Current guidelines recommend a range of approaches for genetic testing to identify predictors of sensitivity to PARPi in ovarian cancer and to identify genetic predisposition.

DESIGN

To establish a European-wide consensus for genetic testing (including the genetic care pathway), decision making and clinical management of patients with recently diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer, and the validity of biomarkers to predict the effectiveness of PARPi in the first-line setting. The collaborative European experts' consensus group consisted of a steering committee (n = 14) and contributors (n = 84). A (modified) Delphi process was used to establish consensus statements based on a systematic literature search, conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

RESULTS

A consensus was reached on 34 statements amongst 98 caregivers (including oncologists, pathologists, clinical geneticists, genetic researchers, and patient advocates). The statements concentrated on (i) the value of testing for BRCA1/2 mutations and HRR deficiency testing, including when and whom to test; (ii) the importance of developing new and better HRR deficiency tests; (iii) the importance of germline non-BRCA HRR and mismatch repair gene mutations for predicting familial risk, but not for predicting sensitivity to PARPi, in the first-line setting; (iv) who should be able to inform patients about genetic testing, and what training and education should these caregivers receive.

CONCLUSION

These consensus recommendations, from a multidisciplinary panel of experts from across Europe, provide clear guidance on the use of BRCA and HRR deficiency testing for recently diagnosed patients with advanced ovarian cancer.

The Chemokine Receptor CCR5 Links Memory CD4+ T Cell Metabolism to T Cell Antigen Receptor Nanoclustering

The inhibition of anabolic pathways, such as aerobic glycolysis, is a metabolic cornerstone of memory T cell differentiation and function. However, the signals that hamper these anabolic pathways are not completely known. Recent evidence pinpoints the chemokine receptor CCR5 as an important player in CD4⁺ T cell memory responses by regulating T cell antigen receptor (TCR) nanoclustering in an antigen-independent manner. This paper reports that CCR5 specifically restrains aerobic glycolysis in memory-like CD4⁺ T cells, but not in effector CD4⁺ T cells. CCR5-deficient memory CD4⁺ T cells thus show an abnormally high glycolytic/oxidative metabolism ratio. No CCR5-dependent change in glucose uptake nor in the expression of the main glucose transporters was detected in any of the examined cell types, although CCR5-deficient memory cells did show increased expression of the hexokinase 2 and pyruvate kinase M2 isoforms, plus the concomitant downregulation of Bcl-6, a transcriptional repressor of these key glycolytic enzymes. Further, the TCR nanoclustering defects observed in CCR5-deficient antigen-experienced CD4⁺ T cells were partially reversed by incubation with 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), suggesting a link between inhibition of the glycolytic pathway and TCR nanoscopic organization. Indeed, the treatment of CCR5-deficient lymphoblasts with 2-DG enhanced IL-2 production after antigen re-stimulation. These results identify CCR5 as an important regulator of the metabolic fitness of memory CD4⁺ T cells, and reveal an unexpected link between T cell metabolism and TCR organization with potential influence on the response of memory T cells upon antigen re-encounter.

Regulation of Adaptive Tumor Immunity by Non-Coding RNAs

Cancer immunology research has mainly focused on the role of protein-coding genes in regulating immune responses to tumors. However, despite more than 70% of the human genome is transcribed, less than 2% encodes proteins. Many non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), have been identified as critical regulators of immune cell development and function, suggesting that they might play important roles in orchestrating immune responses against tumors. In this review, we summarize the scientific advances on the role of ncRNAs in regulating adaptive tumor immunity, and discuss their potential therapeutic value in the context of cancer immunotherapy.

Olaparib in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin for platinum-resistant ovarian cancer regardless of BRCA status: a GEICO phase II trial (ROLANDO study)

BACKGROUND

There is limited evidence for the benefit of olaparib in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC) patients with BRCA wild-type tumors. This study investigated whether this combination of a DNA-damaging chemotherapy plus olaparib is effective in PROC regardless BRCA status.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with high-grade serous or endometrioid ovarian carcinoma and one previous PROC recurrence were enrolled regardless of BRCA status. Patients with ≤4 previous lines (up to 5 in BRCA-mut) with at least one previous platinum-sensitive relapse were included; primary PROC was allowed only in case of BRCA-mut. Patients initially received six cycles of olaparib 300 mg b.i.d. (biduum) + intravenous pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) 40 mg/m2 (PLD40) every 28 days, followed by maintenance with olaparib 300 mg b.i.d. until progression or toxicity. The PLD dose was reduced to 30 mg/m2 (PLD30) due to toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) at 6 months (6m-PFS) by RECIST version 1.1. A proportion of 40% 6m-PFS or more was considered of clinical interest.

RESULTS

From 2017 to 2020, 31 PROC patients were included. BRCA mutations were present in 16%. The median of previous lines was 2 (range 1-5). The overall disease control rate was 77% (partial response rate of 29% and stable disease rate of 48%). After a median follow-up of 10 months, the 6m-PFS and median PFS were 47% and 5.8 months, respectively. Grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 74% of patients, with neutropenia/anemia being the most frequent. With PLD30 serious AEs were less frequent than with PLD40 (21% versus 47%, respectively); moreover, PLD30 was associated with less PLD delays (32% versus 38%) and reductions (16% versus 22%).

CONCLUSIONS

The PLD-olaparib combination has shown significant activity in PROC regardless of BRCA status. PLD at 30 mg/m2 is better tolerated in the combination.

Cediranib in addition to chemotherapy for women with relapsed platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer (ICON6): overall survival results of a phase III randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Cediranib, an oral anti-angiogenic VEGFR 1-3 inhibitor, was studied at a daily dose of 20 mg in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy and as maintenance in a randomised trial in patients with first relapse of 'platinum-sensitive' ovarian cancer and has been shown to improve progression-free survival (PFS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

ICON6 (NCT00532194) was an international three-arm, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial. Between December 2007 and December 2011, 456 women were randomised, using stratification, to receive either chemotherapy with placebo throughout (arm A, reference); chemotherapy with concurrent cediranib, followed by maintenance placebo (arm B, concurrent); or chemotherapy with concurrent cediranib, followed by maintenance cediranib (arm C, maintenance). Due to an enforced redesign of the trial in September 2011, the primary endpoint became PFS between arms A and C which we have previously published, and the overall survival (OS) was defined as a secondary endpoint, which is reported here.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 25.6 months, strong evidence of an effect of concurrent plus maintenance cediranib on PFS was observed [hazard ratio (HR) 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44-0.72, P < 0.0001]. In this final update of the survival analysis, 90% of patients have died. There was a 7.4-month difference in median survival and an HR of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.67-1.11, P = 0.24) in favour of arm C. There was strong evidence of a departure from the assumption of non-proportionality using the Grambsch-Therneau test (P = 0.0031), making the HR difficult to interpret. Consequently, the restricted mean survival time (RMST) was used and the estimated difference over 6 years by the RMST was 4.8 months (95% CI: -0.09 to 9.74 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Although a statistically significant difference in time to progression was seen, the enforced curtailment in recruitment meant that the secondary analysis of OS was underpowered. The relative reduction in the risk of death of 14% risk of death was not conventionally statistically significant, but this improvement and the increase in the mean survival time in this analysis suggest that cediranib may have worthwhile activity in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer and that further research should be undertaken.

SOD3 induces a HIF-2α-dependent program in endothelial cells that provides a selective signal for tumor infiltration by T cells

Background

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly CD8⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), are linked to immune-mediated control of human cancers and response to immunotherapy. Tumors have nonetheless developed specific mechanisms that selectively restrict T cell entry into the tumor microenvironment. The extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3) is an anti-oxidant enzyme usually downregulated in tumors. We hypothesize that upregulation of SOD3 in the tumor microenvironment might be a mechanism to boost T cell infiltration by normalizing the tumor-associated endothelium.

Results

Here we show that SOD3 overexpression in endothelial cells increased in vitro transmigration of naïve and activated CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, but not of myeloid cells. Perivascular expression of SOD3 also specifically increased CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ effector T cell infiltration into tumors and improved the effectiveness of adoptively transferred tumor-specific CD8⁺ T cells. SOD3-induced enhanced transmigration in vitro and tumor infiltration in vivo were not associated to upregulation of T cell chemokines such as CXCL9 or CXCL10, nor to changes in the levels of endothelial adhesion receptors such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) or vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). Instead, SOD3 enhanced T cell infiltration via HIF-2α-dependent induction of specific WNT ligands in endothelial cells; this led to WNT signaling pathway activation in the endothelium, FOXM1 stabilization, and transcriptional induction of laminin-α4 (LAMA4), an endothelial basement membrane component permissive for T cell infiltration. In patients with stage II colorectal cancer, SOD3 was associated with increased CD8⁺ TIL density and disease-free survival. SOD3 expression was also linked to a T cell–inflamed gene signature using the COAD cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas program.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that SOD3-induced upregulation of LAMA4 in endothelial cells boosts selective tumor infiltration by T lymphocytes, thus transforming immunologically “cold” into “hot” tumors. High SOD3 levels are associated with human colon cancer infiltration by CD8⁺ T cells, with potential consequences for the clinical outcome of these patients. Our results also uncover a cell type–specific, distinct activity of the WNT pathway for the regulation of T cell infiltration into tumors.

The systemic treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer revisited

Treatment approaches for relapsed ovarian cancer have evolved over the past decade from a calendar-based decision tree to a patient-oriented biologically driven algorithm. Nowadays, platinum-based chemotherapy should be offered to all patients with a reasonable chance of responding to this therapy. The treatment-free interval for platinum is only one of many factors affecting patients' eligibility for platinum re-treatment. Bevacizumab increases the response to chemotherapy irrespective of the cytotoxic regimen and can be valuable in patients with an urgent need for symptom relief (e.g. pleural effusion, ascites). For patients with recurrent high-grade ovarian cancer, which responds to platinum-based treatment, maintenance therapy with a poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor can be offered, regardless of the BRCA mutation status. Here we review contemporary decision-making processes in the systemic treatment of relapsed ovarian cancer.

CCR5 in cancer immunotherapy: More than an "attractive" receptor for T cells

Despite intensive study, the role of CCR5 in cancer remains elusive. We showed that CCR5 expression by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells is necessary to boost anti-tumor responses by optimizing helper-dependent CD8+ T cell priming. Our findings could have implications for cancer treatment in patients with defective CCR5 expression.

The forefront of ovarian cancer therapy: update on PARP inhibitors

BACKGROUND

In recurrent ovarian cancer, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-inhibiting agents have transformed the treatment of platinum-sensitive disease. New data support use of PARP inhibitors earlier in the treatment algorithm.

DESIGN

We review results from recent phase III trials evaluating PARP inhibitors as treatment and/or maintenance therapy for patients with newly diagnosed ovarian cancer. We discuss the efficacy and safety of these agents in the all-comer and biomarker-selected populations studied in clinical trials, and compare the strengths and limitations of the various trial designs. We also consider priorities for future research, with a particular focus on patient selection and future regimens for populations with high unmet need.

RESULTS

Four phase III trials (SOLO-1, PAOLA-1/ENGOT-OV25, PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26 and VELIA/GOG-3005) demonstrated remarkable improvements in progression-free survival with PARP inhibitor therapy (olaparib, niraparib or veliparib) for newly diagnosed ovarian cancer. Differences in trial design (treatment and/or maintenance setting; single agent or combination; bevacizumab or no bevacizumab), patient selection (surgical outcome, biomarker eligibility, prognosis) and primary analysis population (intention-to-treat, BRCA mutated or homologous recombination deficiency positive) affect the conclusions that can be drawn from these trials. Overall survival data are pending and there is limited experience regarding long-term safety.

CONCLUSIONS

PARP inhibitors play a pivotal role in the management of newly diagnosed ovarian cancer, which will affect subsequent treatment choices. Refinement of testing for patient selection and identification of regimens to treat populations that appear to benefit less from PARP inhibitors are a priority.

Antitumor activity and safety of pembrolizumab in patients with advanced recurrent ovarian cancer: results from the phase II KEYNOTE-100 study

BACKGROUND

Advanced recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC) is the leading cause of gynecologic cancer-related death in developed countries and new treatments are needed. Previous studies of immune checkpoint blockade showed low objective response rates (ORR) in ROC with no identified predictive biomarker.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This phase II study of pembrolizumab (NCT02674061) examined two patient cohorts with ROC: cohort A received one to three prior lines of treatment with a platinum-free interval (PFI) or treatment-free interval (TFI) between 3 and 12 months and cohort B received four to six prior lines with a PFI/TFI of ≥3 months. Pembrolizumab 200 mg was administered intravenously every 3 weeks until cancer progression, toxicity, or completion of 2 years. Primary end points were ORR by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 per blinded independent central review by cohort and by PD-L1 expression measured as combined positive score (CPS). Secondary end points included duration of response (DOR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety.

RESULTS

Cohort A enrolled 285 patients; the first 100 served as the training set for PD-L1 biomarker analysis. Cohort B enrolled 91 patients. ORR was 7.4% for cohort A and 9.9% for cohort B. Median DOR was 8.2 months for cohort A and not reached for cohort B. DCR was 37.2% and 37.4%, respectively, in cohorts A and B. Based on the training set analysis, CPS 1 and 10 were selected for evaluation in the confirmation set. In the confirmation set, ORR was 4.1% for CPS <1, 5.7% CPS ≥1, and 10.0% for CPS ≥10. PFS was 2.1 months for both cohorts. Median OS was not reached for cohort A and was 17.6 months for cohort B. Toxicities were consistent with other single-agent pembrolizumab trials.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-agent pembrolizumab showed modest activity in patients with ROC. Higher PD-L1 expression was correlated with higher response.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02674061.

Harmonising clinical trials within the Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup: consensus and unmet needs from the Fifth Ovarian Cancer Consensus Conference

The Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup (GCIG) Fifth Ovarian Cancer Consensus Conference (OCCC) was held in Tokyo, Japan from 7 to 9 November 2015. It provided international consensus on 15 important questions in 4 topic areas, which were generated in accordance with the mission statement to establish 'International Consensus for Designing Better Clinical Trials'. The methodology for obtaining consensus was previously established and followed during the Fifth OCCC. All 29 clinical trial groups of GCIG participated in program development and deliberations. Draft consensus statements were discussed in topic groups as well as in a plenary forum. The final statements were then presented to all 29 member groups for voting and documentation of the level of consensus. Full consensus was obtained for 11 of the 15 statements with 28/29 groups agreeing to 3 statements, and 27/29 groups agreeing to 1 statement. The high acceptance rate of the statements among trial groups reflects the fact that we share common questions, and recognise important unmet needs that will guide future research in ovarian cancer.

Abstract P4-21-05: Neoadjuvant non-pegylated liposomal doxorubicin plus paclitaxel, trastuzumab and pertuzumab in patients with HER2+ breast cancer – Final results of the SOLTI OPTI-HER HEART study

INTRODUCTION

Targeting HER2 by dual blockade with trastuzumab (T) and pertuzumab (P) in a taxane-based regimen is an active neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) of HER2+ early breast cancer (EBC). Addition of an anthracycline could further enhance this response, but potential cardiac toxicity is a concern. The Opti-HER HEART trial (NCT01669239) aims to optimize neoadjuvant treatment while minimizing cardiac risk, by combining T+P with a taxane and non-pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (NPLD).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Phase II open-label, single-arm study of six 21-day cycles of NPLD (50mg/m2 D1), paclitaxel (80mg/m2 D1,8,15), T (4mg/kg C1D1, followed by 2mg/kg weekly), and P (840mg C1D1, followed by 420mg C2-6D1) as NAT for patients (pts) with stage II-IIIB HER2+ BC. Primary objective was to evaluate cardiac safety of the combination, measured by the incidence of type A (symptomatic congestive heart failure ) or type B [asymptomatic reduction of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) value: ≥10% absolute decrease and LVEF&lt;50%, LVEF&lt;40% or any absolute decrease ≥20%] events, during NAT. Eighty-three pts were required to reject with 80% confidence the null hypothesis that the combination increases the incidence of cardiac events above the historical control of 18% (3% type A; 15% type B).

RESULTS

Between June 2013 and January 2015, 83 pts with HER2+ EBC (stage II 78%, stage III 22%) and adequate cardiac function (LVEF≥55%) were enrolled. Mean age was 50 years, N+ 47%, hormone receptor (HR) positive 71% and median baseline LVEF 66%. Eighty-five percent of pts completed 6 cycles of NAT, whereas 15% discontinued NAT due to toxicity. Adverse events (AEs) leading to dose adjustments/temporary interruptions and discontinuation of at least 1 drug occurred in 70% and 21% of pts, respectively. Primary objective was met with an incidence of cardiac events during NAT of 4% (95%CI 1-10, 3pts, all type B). Cardiac events until study completion (1 year) were 8% (all type B). All (but 2 cases with no follow-up data) were reversible and only 1 pt presented an asymptomatic LVEF&lt;40%. Neutropenia (45%) was the most frequent hematological toxicity (G3/4 34%; febrile neutropenia 6%), less frequent in the 71% of pts that received primary G-CSF prophylaxis (G3/4 25% vs. 67%). Common non-hematological toxicities were diarrhea (74%; G3 7%), asthenia (78%; G3 11%) and neurotoxicity (52%; G3/4 10%). Pathological complete response (pCR) in breast+axilla (ypT0/is ypN0) was 60% (87% in HR-) and 69% in breast (91% in HR-).

 TOTALHR-HR+% ypT0/is (95% CI)69 (58-79)91 (72-99)61 (47-74)% ypT0/is ypN0 (95% CI)60 (46-71)87 (66-97)50 (36-64)

CONCLUSIONS

The neoadjuvant combination of T+P, paclitaxel and NPLD does not increase the risk for cardiac events in HER2+ BC pts. Since cardiac toxicities may present later, long-term cardiac monitoring is essential. Efficacy in terms of pCR was remarkable, being higher to historical values of combinations with dual anti-HER2 blockade and one of the highest reported among HR-HER2+ BC. This regimen administered with primary G-CSF prophylaxis and cardiac function monitoring may be an effective and secure option for early and locally advanced HER2+ pts with good cardiac function.

Citation Format: Gavilá J, Perez-Garcia J, Calvo I, Ciruelos E, Muñoz M, Virizuela JA, Ruiz I, Andrés R, Morales S, Perelló A, Sánchez P, Garcia-Saenz JA, Quero Guillen JC, González-Santiago S, Garau Llinas I, González-Martín A, Cantos Sánchez de Ibargüen B, Zaragoza K, de la Peña L, Llombart-Cussac A, Oliveira M. Neoadjuvant non-pegylated liposomal doxorubicin plus paclitaxel, trastuzumab and pertuzumab in patients with HER2+ breast cancer – Final results of the SOLTI OPTI-HER HEART study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-21-05.

SEOM Clinical Guideline in ovarian cancer (2016)

Despite remarkable advances in the knowledge of molecular biology and treatment, ovarian cancer (OC) is the first cause of death due to gynecological cancer and the fifth cause of death for cancer in women in Spain. The aim of this guideline is to summarize the current evidence and to give evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.

ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO Consensus Conference on Endometrial Cancer: diagnosis, treatment and follow-up

The first joint European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), European SocieTy for Radiotherapy & Oncology (ESTRO) and European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) consensus conference on endometrial cancer was held on 11-13 December 2014 in Milan, Italy, and comprised a multidisciplinary panel of 40 leading experts in the management of endometrial cancer. Before the conference, the expert panel prepared three clinically relevant questions about endometrial cancer relating to the following four areas: prevention and screening, surgery, adjuvant treatment and advanced and recurrent disease. All relevant scientific literature, as identified by the experts, was reviewed in advance. During the consensus conference, the panel developed recommendations for each specific question and a consensus was reached. Results of this consensus conference, together with a summary of evidence supporting each recommendation, are detailed in this article. All participants have approved this final article.

Update on randomized trials on recurrent disease

Approximately 75% of patients with advanced ovarian cancer will have a recurrence of their disease within the first 3 years after upfront surgery and paclitaxel-carboplatin-based chemotherapy. An optimal choice of treatment of patients with a recurrence is an important issue, and several factors should be taken into account in this decision-making, including disease, patients, and treatment. Fortunately, we have several strategies that can be of help not only with respect to palliation, but also in terms of survival benefit. Apart from surgery, which will be reviewed in another article of this series, different single cytotoxic agents and combinations and, more recently, the addition of antiangiogenic agents have shown that they can have impact on progression-free survival and, for some strategies, on the overall survival in such patients. In this review, we present an update of the clinical trials that have led to these achievements.

Prevalence and management of anaemia in patients with non-myeloid cancer undergoing systemic therapy: a Spanish survey

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to provide updated data on anaemia prevalence and management in cancer patients undergoing systemic therapy in Spain.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study performed in 2008. Eligible patients were ≥18 years, with non-myeloid malignancies treated with systemic therapy [chemotherapy (CT), hormonal therapy or immunotherapy]. Anaemia was defined according to WHO as haemoglobin (Hb) < 12 g/dL.

RESULTS

The study included 214 patients with a median age of 63 years (range 20-91), 58 % women, 73 % with solid tumours, and 79 % with advanced disease. CT was used in 91 % of patients (26 % with platinum compounds), hormonal therapy in 8.5 %, and immunotherapy in 8.5 %. In our study, 48.1 % of patients [95 % confidence interval (CI) 45.2-58.6] showed anaemia (31 % symptomatic): 42.0 % mild (10 ≤ Hb ≤ 11.9 g/dL), 5.6 % moderate (8 ≤ Hb ≤ 9.9 g/dL), and 0.5 % severe (Hb < 8 g/dL). A higher prevalence was observed in patients treated with CT (51 vs. 20 %, p = 0.01), platinum-based CT (70 vs. 47 %, p = 0.01) or palliative CT (61 vs. 39 %, p = 0.003). Anaemia was also more frequent in patients with more than three lines of CT (83 %) and in the fourth or subsequent CT cycle (58 %). Management in the previous 4 weeks in patients with anaemia was: 62 % did not receive treatment (92 % mild), 24 % received erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), 14 % received iron and 8.7 % received transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

In Spanish hospitals, about half of patients with non-myeloid malignancies undergoing systemic therapy fulfilled anaemia criteria (87 % mild). Approximately two-third of patients with anaemia do not receive specific treatment and ESA use is below current guidelines.

Adverse events risk associated with bevacizumab addition to breast cancer chemotherapy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor with the ability to increase progression-free survival in metastatic breast cancer (MBC). A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the risk of the most clinically relevant adverse outcomes associated with the use of bevacizumab in the treatment of breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We included phase III clinical trials that used bevacizumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy as for MBC or locally recurrent. Statistical analyses were conducted to calculate summary odds ratio (OR) of the eight most relevant adverse outcomes related with bevacizumab.

RESULTS

Five clinical trials were included in the meta-analysis. Summary odds ratios obtained showed a statistically significant bevacizumab-associated increased risk in four of the adverse outcomes studied: proteinuria (OR = 27.68), hypertension (OR = 12.76), left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) (OR = 2.25), and hemorrhagic events (OR = 4.07). No statistically significant differences were found for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation, vascular events, fatal events, or febrile neutropenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Bevacizumab did increase the risk of LVD and hemorrhagic events. The addition of bevacizumab to chemotherapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer was not associated with a significant increase in grade ≥ 3 arterial or venous thromboembolic events, GI perforation, or fatal events.

Trabectedin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in the treatment of patients with partially platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer: current evidence and future perspectives

The effectiveness of platinum re-treatment in relapsed ovarian cancer depends on relapse-free/treatment-free intervals. Platinum agents can be effectively readministered to platinum-sensitive patients (relapsing >12 months after platinum), but efficacy is lower in partially platinum-sensitive (PPS) disease (relapsing 6-12 months after platinum). There is no clear standard treatment challenging PPS patients. Survival data in this subset with chemotherapy combinations such as pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) plus carboplatin or gemcitabine plus PLD are available from phase II trials ranging from 16 to 21 months. Recent results from OVA-301 phase III randomized trial evaluating trabectedin plus PLD showed the longest median overall survival ever reported in PPS patients (23 months). Subsequent chemotherapy (including platinum-based regimens) was administered later and survival in patients receiving third-line platinum was longer in patients treated with trabectedin plus PLD compared with those treated with PLD alone. These results suggest that prolonging platinum-free interval (PFI) with an effective non-platinum regimen improves outcome with subsequent third-line platinum treatment. An ongoing phase III trial (INOVATYON) aims to demonstrate if the results observed with trabectedin plus PLD in PPS patients are due to PFI extension, and if PFI extension with non-platinum combination prolongs response to subsequent platinum and survival in this population.

Maximal T cell-mediated antitumor responses rely upon CCR5 expression in both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells

Immune responses against cancer rely upon leukocyte trafficking patterns that are coordinated by chemokines. CCR5, the receptor for chemotactic chemokines MIP1alpha, MIP1beta, and RANTES (CCL3, CCL4, CCL5), exerts major regulatory effects on CD4(+)- and CD8(+) T cell-mediated immunity. Although CCR5 and its ligands participate in the response to various pathogens, its relevance to tumoral immune control has been debated. Here, we report that CCR5 has a specific, ligand-dependent role in optimizing antitumor responses. In adoptive transfer studies, efficient tumor rejection required CCR5 expression by both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells. CCR5 activation in CD4(+) cells resulted in CD40L upregulation, leading to full maturation of antigen-presenting cells and enhanced CD8(+) T-cell crosspriming and tumor infiltration. CCR5 reduced chemical-induced fibrosarcoma incidence and growth, but did not affect the onset or progression of spontaneous breast cancers in tolerogenic Tg(MMTV-neu) mice. However, CCR5 was required for TLR9-mediated reactivation of antineu responses in these mice. Our results indicate that CCR5 boosts T-cell responses to tumors by modulating helper-dependent CD8(+) T-cell activation.

The Andalusian population from Huelva reveals a high diversification of Y-DNA paternal lineages from haplogroup E: Identifying human male movements within the Mediterranean space

BACKGROUND

Gene flow among human populations is generally interpreted in terms of complex patterns, with the observed gene frequencies being the consequence of the entire genetic and demographic histories of the population.

AIMS

This study performs a high-resolution analysis of the Y-chromosome haplogroup E in Western Andalusians (Huelva province). The genetic information presented here provides new insights into migration processes that took place throughout the Mediterranean space and tries to evaluate its impact on the current genetic composition of the most southwestern population of Spain.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

167 unrelated males were previously typed for the presence/absence of the Y-chromosome Alu polymorphism (YAP). The group of YAP (+) Andalusians was genotyped for 16 Y-SNPs and also characterized for 16 Y-STR loci.

RESULTS

The distribution of E-M81 haplogroup, a Berber marker, was found at a frequency of 3% in our sample. The distribution of M81 frequencies in Iberia seems to be not concordant with the regions where Islamic rule was most intense and long-lasting. The study also showed that most of M78 derived allele (6.6%) led to the V13* subhaplogroup. We also found the most basal and rare paragroup M78* and others with V12 and V65 mutations. The lineage defined by M34 mutation, which is quite frequent in Jews, was detected as well.

CONCLUSIONS

The haplogroup E among Western Andalusians revealed a complex admixture of genetic markers from the Mediterranean space, with interesting signatures of populations from the Middle East and the Balkan Peninsula and a surprisingly low influence by Berber populations compared to other areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

Inbreeding coefficients for X-linked and autosomal genes in consanguineous marriages in Spanish populations: the case of Guipúzcoa (Basque Country)

Inbreeding patterns over the past two centuries have been studied more extensively in Spain and Italy than anywhere else in Europe. Consanguinity studies in mainland Spain have shown that populations settled along the Cantabrian cornice share inbreeding patterns that distinguish them from other populations further south. A visual representation of spatial variations of two key inbreeding variables is presented here for the first time via contour maps. This paper also analyzes time trends of mean inbreeding coefficients for X-linked (F(x)) and autosomal genes (F) (1862-1995) together with variations in F(x)/F ratios in Guipúzcoa, the most autochthonous Spanish Basque province. Because close cousin marriages are a mark of identity of the study population, we evaluated the contribution of uncle-niece/aunt-nephew (M12) and first cousin (M22) marriages to F(x) and F values and compared the frequencies of M12 and M22 pedigree subtypes and their corresponding F(x)/F ratios to those found in other Spanish populations. The mean Fx and F inbreeding levels in Guipúzcoa for the 134-year period analyzed were 1.51 x 10(-3) and 1.04 x 10(-3), respectively, and the F(x)/F ratio was seen to be very stable over time. Our findings show that major similarities exist for close consanguineous marriage subtypes between Basque and non-Basque Spanish populations, despite significant geographic variability in terms of first cousin pedigrees. The distortion seems to be caused by Guipúzcoa. The F(x)/F ratios for first cousins in Spanish populations were higher than expected (1.25), with values ranging from 1.34 to 1.48. The findings of the present study may be useful for advancing knowledge on the effects of the interaction between biology and culture and for exploring associations between mating patterns and the prevalence of certain diseases.

Genetic admixture, relatedness, and structure patterns among Mexican populations revealed by the Y-chromosome

Y-linked markers are suitable loci to analyze genetic diversity of human populations, offering knowledge of medical, forensic, and anthropological interest. In a population sample of 206 Mestizo males from western Mexico, we analyzed two binary loci (M3 and YAP) and six Y-STRs, adding to the analysis data of Mexican Mestizos and Amerindians, and relevant worldwide populations. The paternal ancestry estimated in western Mexican-Mestizos was mainly European (60-64%), followed by Amerindian (25-21%), and African ( approximately 15%). Significant genetic heterogeneity was established between Mestizos from western (Jalisco State) and northern Mexico (Chihuahua State) compared with Mexicans from the center of the Mexican Republic (Mexico City), this attributable to higher European ancestry in western and northern than in central and southeast populations, where higher Amerindian ancestry was inferred. This genetic structure has important implications for medical and forensic purposes. Two different Pre-Hispanic evolutionary processes were evident. In Mesoamerican region, populations presented higher migration rate (N(m) = 24.76), promoting genetic homogeneity. Conversely, isolated groups from the mountains and canyons of the Western and Northern Sierra Madre (Huichols and Tarahumaras, respectively) presented a lower migration rate (N(m) = 10.27) and stronger genetic differentiation processes (founder effect and/or genetic drift), constituting a Pre-Hispanic population substructure. Additionally, Tarahumaras presented a higher frequency of Y-chromosomes without Q3 that was explained by paternal European admixture (15%) and, more interestingly, by a distinctive Native-American ancestry. In Purepechas, a special admixture process involving preferential integration of non-Purepecha women in their communities could explain contrary genetic evidences (autosomal vs. Y-chromosome) for this tribe.

ECOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL PRESSURE ON MARRIAGE SEASONALITY IN THE PRINCIPALITY OF ANDORRA

The Principality of Andorra is a small European state located in the central Pyrenees. Since the Middle Ages, it has retained political independence from its two neighbouring countries, France and Spain. Until recently, Andorra maintained a relative stable population and was dependent upon agriculture and livestock. Since 1940, however, a marked change in these conditions has given rise to an explosive increase in the size of the population and traditional systems of production have been replaced by tourism, commerce and service industries. These changes have influenced the model of nuptial seasonality. Based on data from 10,188 marriage certificates covering a period from 1606 to 1960, nuptial seasonality was assessed by estimating Henry’s seasonality coefficient. Temporal and geographic changes in the seasonality model were assessed using linear regression analysis and analysis of variance. In addition, the Ũhindex – an estimate of the intensity of the seasonality model – is proposed to assess changes in the different seasonality models. The results indicate a relaxation of seasonality over time and in those parishes in which substantial demographic and socioeconomic change has occurred in recent years, suggesting a strong dependence of seasonality on the system of production.

Long-term outcome of a phase II study of weekly docetaxel with a short course of estramustine and enoxaparine in hormone-resistant prostate cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to define the toxicity and activity of weekly docetaxel administered with a short course of estramustine and enoxaparine in patients with hormone-resistant prostate cancer (HRPC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-four patients were treated with the next regimen: weekly docetaxel 36 mg/m(2) iv for three consecutive weeks every 28 days, and estramustine 280 mg three times a day for three consecutive days beginning the day before docetaxel (days 1-3, 8-10 and 15-17). In order to prevent thromboembolic events, 40 mg of subcutaneous enoxaparine was administered daily sc on the same days as estramustine. Primary endpoints were: toxicity, especially the presence of thromboembolic events, PSA response rate and response in measurable disease. Secondary endpoints were: time to PSA progression and overall survival.

RESULTS

Nineteen of 24 patients (79.1%, 95% CI 71-87%) had a PSA response = or >50%. Four of the eleven patients with measurable disease had a partial response. The median time to PSA progression was 7 months (CI 95%: 6.5-9) and the median survival was 19 months (IC 95%: 11-24). Toxicity was manageable with no treatment- related mortality. Only two patients had grade 4 neutropenia. Two patients had thrombotic events, one deep venous thrombosis and one stroke. The main grade 3 non-haematologic toxicity was diarrhoea and asthenia, both in 25% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Weekly docetaxel with a short course of estramustine and enoxaparine is active and tolerable in HRPC patients. The observed incidence of thrombosis was lower than previously reported but the association of enoxaparine was not enough to completely prevent the thromboembolic events.