Unraveling the complexities of early-onset colorectal cancer: a perspective on dietary and microbial influences

While advances in screening have resulted in declining rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) among adults ≥50 years of age since the mid-2000s, the incidence of early-onset CRC (EOCRC) has steadily increased over the last decade. This increase is not fully accounted for by hereditary factors, and the hypothesis that a sedentary lifestyle and obesity are the primary culprits is not fully supported by recent reports indicating that many affected individuals lead active lifestyles, maintain normal weight, and are otherwise healthy. Attention has shifted toward dietary patterns, notably the consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods found in Western diets, which are suspected of disrupting the gut microbiome balance that potentially leads to EOCRC. The impact of antibiotic use on the gut microbiome is also posited as a contributing factor, given its rising prevalence in medical and agricultural practices. We propose that a paradigm shift is necessary for EOCRC research, moving beyond metabolic factors to a broader exploration of dietary and microbial influences. Future research must prioritize understanding the relationship between dietary habits, particularly processed food intake, antibiotic exposure, and gut microbiome dynamics, to unravel the complex etiology of EOCRC. This will be crucial in developing comprehensive preventive strategies to address the increasing incidence of this malignancy in younger populations.

Topologically associating domains in the POLLED region are the same for Angus- and Brahman-specific Hi-C reads from F1 hybrid fetal tissue

Horns, a form of headgear carried by Bovidae, have ethical and economic implications for ruminant production species such as cattle and goats. Hornless (polled) individuals are preferred. In cattle, four genetic variants (Celtic, Friesian, Mongolian and Guarani) are associated with the polled phenotype, which are clustered in a 300-kb region on chromosome 1. As the variants are intergenic, the functional effect is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine if the POLLED variants affect chromatin structure or disrupt enhancers using publicly available data. Topologically associating domains (TADs) were analyzed using Angus- and Brahman-specific Hi-C reads from lung tissue of an Angus (Celtic allele) cross Brahman (horned) fetus. Predicted bovine enhancers and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing peaks for histone modifications associated with enhancers (H3K27ac and H3K4me1) were mapped to the POLLED region. TADs analyzed from Angus- and Brahman-specific Hi-C reads were the same, therefore, the Celtic variant does not appear to affect this level of chromatin structure. The Celtic variant is located in a different TAD from the Friesian, Mongolian, and Guarani variants. Predicted enhancers and histone modifications overlapped with the Guarani and Friesian variants but not the Celtic or Mongolian variants. This study provides insight into the mechanisms of the POLLED variants for disrupting horn development. These results should be validated using data produced from the horn bud region of horned and polled bovine fetuses.

A systematic review of genetic ancestry as a risk factor for incidence of non-small cell lung cancer in the US

Background: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, is the most diagnosed form of lung cancer. While lung cancer incidence has steadily declined over the last decade, disparities in incidence and mortality rates persist among African American (AA), Caucasian American (CA), and Hispanic American (HA) populations. Researchers continue to explore how genetic ancestry may influence differential outcomes in lung cancer risk and development. The purpose of this evaluation is to highlight experimental research that investigates the differential impact of genetic mutations and ancestry on NSCLC incidence. Methods: This systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar search engines. The following key search terms were used to select articles published between 2011 and 2022: "African/European/Latin American Ancestry NSCLC"; "Racial Disparities NSCLC"; "Genetic Mutations NSCLC"; "NSCLC Biomarkers"; "African Americans/Hispanic Americans/Caucasian Americans NSCLC incidence." Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and studies outside of the US were excluded. A total of 195 articles were initially identified and after excluding 156 which did not meet eligibility criteria, 38 were included in this investigation. Results: Studies included in this analysis focused on racial/ethnic disparities in the following common genetic mutations observed in NSCLC: KRAS, EGFR, TP53, PIK3CA, ALK Translocations, ROS-1 Rearrangements, STK11, MET, and BRAF. Results across studies varied with respect to absolute differential expression. No significant differences in frequencies of specific genetic mutational profiles were noted between racial/ethnic groups. However, for HAs, lower mutational frequencies in KRAS and STK11 genes were observed. In genetic ancestry level analyses, multiple studies suggest that African ancestry is associated with a higher frequency of EGFR mutations. Conversely, Latin ancestry is associated with TP53 mutations. At the genomic level, several novel predisposing variants associated with African ancestry and increased risk of NSCLC were discovered. Family history among all racial/ethnic groups was also considered a risk factor for NSCLC. Conclusion: Results from racially and ethnically diverse studies can elucidate driving factors that may increase susceptibility and subsequent lung cancer risk across different racial/ethnic groups. Identification of biomarkers that can be used as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools may help improve lung cancer survival among high-risk populations.

Identification of genomic regions associated with total and progressive sperm motility in Italian Holstein bulls

Sperm motility is directly related to the ability of sperm to move through the female reproductive tract to reach the ovum. Sperm motility is a complex trait that is influenced by environmental and genetic factors and is associated with male fertility, oocyte penetration rate, and reproductive success of cattle. In this study we carried out a GWAS in Italian Holstein bulls to identify candidate regions and genes associated with variations in progressive and total motility (PM and TM, respectively). After quality control, the final data set consisted of 5,960 records from 949 bulls having semen collected in 10 artificial insemination stations and genotyped at 412,737 SNPs (call rate >95%; minor allele frequency >5%). (Co)variance components were estimated using single trait mixed models, and associations between SNPs and phenotypes were assessed using a genomic BLUP approach. Ten windows that explained the greatest percentage of genetic variance were located on Bos taurus autosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 23, and 26 for TM and Bos taurus autosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 16, 23, and 26 for PM. A total of 150 genes for TM and 72 genes for PM were identified within these genomic regions. Gene Ontology enrichment analyses identified significant Gene Ontology terms involved with energy homeostasis, membrane functions, sperm-egg interactions, protection against oxidative stress, olfactory receptors, and immune system. There was significant enrichment of quantitative trait loci for fertility, calving ease, immune response, feed intake, and carcass weight within the candidate windows. These results contribute to understanding the architecture of the genetic control of sperm motility and may aid in the development of strategies to identify subfertile bulls and improve reproductive success.

IL-1β enhances cell viability and decreases 5-FU sensitivity in novel colon cancer cell lines derived from African American patients

Background

In the U.S., African Americans (AAs) present with the highest incidence and mortality rates for Colorectal Cancer (CRC). When compared to Caucasian American (CA) patients, AAs also have reduced response to the first line standard of care chemotherapeutic agent 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Previously, we observed differential gene expression between the two populations, suggesting that colon tumors from AA patients display a decreased antitumor immune response and an increased expression of genes encoding proteins involved in inflammatory processes, such as Interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Here, we investigate the role of IL-1β in modifying chemotherapeutic response and altering expression of proteins in novel AA and well-established CA colon cancer cell lines.

Methods

RNA sequencing analysis was performed to detect expression of genes involved in inflammation in AA and CA colon cancer cells. The effects of IL-1β on 5-FU response was evaluated by assessing cell viability (MTS assay) and apoptosis (flow cytometry analysis) following treatment with 5-FU alone or in combination with the cytokine. Further, we used an IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) to inhibit IL-1β-induced effects on 5-FU sensitivity and NF-kB pathway activation.

Results

AA colon cancer cell lines present significant increase in expression of genes IL1R2 (373-fold change (FC), IRAK1 (3.24 FC), IKBKB, (5.33 FC) NF-KB IA (5.95 FC), MYD88, (3.72 FC), IRAK3 (161 FC), TRAF5 (4.1 FC). A significant decrease in the response to 5-FU treatment, as well as a significant increase in phosphorylation of IκBα and secretion of IL-8, was seen following IL-1β treatment, in both AA and CA cell lines. Finally, treatment with IL-1Ra was able to reverse the effects induced by IL-1β, by increasing the cells sensitivity to 5-FU. IL-1Ra also inhibited phosphorylation of IκBα and IL-8 secretion.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a differential expression of inflammatory genes and proteins that might regulate the different response to IL-1β between AA and CA colon cancer cell lines. Our data also demonstrates that IL-1β is involved in modulating 5-FU response in both AA and CA colon cancer cell lines. Further investigation of these mechanisms might help elucidate the differences seen in incidence, mortality and response to therapy in AA colon cancer patients.

Phospho-valproic acid (MDC-1112) reduces pancreatic cancer growth in patient-derived tumor xenografts and KPC mice: enhanced efficacy when combined with gemcitabine

New chemotherapeutic agents are needed for pancreatic cancer (PC). We have previously shown that phospho-valproic acid (MDC-1112) is effective in cell-line xenografts of PC. Here, we explored whether MDC-1112 is effective in additional clinically relevant animal models of PC and whether MDC-1112 enhances the anticancer effect of clinically used chemotherapeutic agents. MDC-1112 alone strongly reduced patient-derived pancreatic tumor xenograft growth, and extended survival of LSL-KrasG12D/+; LSL-Trp53R172H/+; Pdx1-Cre (KPC) mice. In both models, MDC-1112 inhibited STAT3 activation and its downstream signals, including Bcl-xL and cyclin D1. In human PC cell lines, P-V enhanced the growth inhibitory effect of gemcitabine (GEM), Abraxane and 5-FU, but not that of irinotecan. Normal human pancreatic epithelial cells were more resistant to the cytotoxic effects of MDC-1112/GEM combination. Furthermore, MDC-1112 enhanced GEM's effect on colony formation, apoptosis, cell migration, and cell invasion. In vivo, MDC-1112 and GEM, given alone, reduced patient-derived pancreatic tumor xenograft growth by 58% and 87%, respectively; whereas MDC-1112/GEM combination reduced tumor growth by 94%, inducing tumor stasis. In conclusion, MDC-1112 should be further explored as a potential agent to be used in combination with GEM for treating PC.

Immune-Related Gene Expression and Cytokine Secretion Is Reduced Among African American Colon Cancer Patients

Background: Colorectal cancer is the third most deadly cancer among African Americans (AA). When compared to Caucasian Americans (CA), AA present with more advanced disease and lower survival rates. Here, we investigated if differences in tumor immunology could be contributive to disparities observed between these populations.

Methods: We examined gene expression of tumor and non-tumor adjacent tissues from AA and CA by whole transcriptome sequencing, and generated scores for immune cell populations by NanoString. In addition, we utilized “The Cancer Genome Atlas” (TCGA) database from AA and CA as a validation cohort. Finally, we measured the secretion of cytokines characteristic of effector T helper cell (T_h) subsets by ELISA using plasma from each AA and CA participant.

Results: Colon tumors from AA patients showed significant fold-change increase in gene expression when compared to CA for FOXP3 (6.22 vs. 3.22), IL1B (103 vs. 11.4) and IL8 (220 vs. 28.9) (p < 0.05). In contrast, among CA we observed statistically higher gene expression of markers associated with antitumor activity such as GZMB (Granzyme B), IFNG and the immunotherapy targets PDL1 (CD274) and CTLA4 (p < 0.05). TCGA data validated our observed higher gene expression of GZMB and PDL1 in CA patients when compared to AA. Notably, our observations on immune cell populations show that AA tumors have significantly higher number of exhausted CD8+ cells (p < 0.01), mast cells (p < 0.02) and increased T regulatory cells when compared to CA. AA colon cancer patients differed from CA in cytokine production patterns in plasma (i.e., reduced IL-12).

Conclusions: Our study demonstrates significant differences of the immunological profiles of colon tumors from AA compared to CA that suggest a deficiency of appropriate immune defense mechanisms in terms of gene expression, recruitment of immune cells and systemic secretion of cytokines. As such, these immune differences could be mitigated through population-specific therapeutic approaches.

Abstract 3618: Mutational analysis of colon tumors from African American patients and potential association with cancer disparities

Background: Colorectal cancer is the third most deadly cancer among African Americans (AA). When compared to Caucasian Americans (CA), AA present with more advanced disease and lower survival rates. We have previously demonstrated that colon tumors from AA and CA differ in their immune cell recruitment and their systemic cytokines secretion profiles. Therefore, in this study we investigated if differences in gene expression and mutational profiles could relate to the disparities observed between these populations.

Methods: We examined gene expression of colon tumor and non-tumor adjacent tissues from AA (n=20) and CA (n=20) by whole transcriptome sequencing (Illumina); and determined the differential expression of the 170 genes of the Illumina's TruSight Tumor 170 panel (TST170) in AA (n=12) and CA (n=17) colon tumor and non-tumor adjacent tissues.

Results: From our gene expression studies, we found that colon tumors from AA patients showed significant fold-change increases in gene expression when compared to CA for FOXP3 (6.97 vs. 3.15), IL1B (122 vs. 14) and IL8 (262 vs. 28) (p &lt; 0.05). In contrast, among CA we observed statistically higher gene expression of markers associated with antitumor activity such as GZMB (Granzyme B), IFNG and immunotherapy targets PDL1 (CD274) and CTLA4 (p &lt; 0.05). Through our mutational profiling we identified 38 genes in AA and 6 in CA differentially expressed between tumor and non-tumor tissues (p &lt; 0.01). Of those, 5 genes associated with several roles in cancer ETV4 (poor prognosis), CCND1 (tumorigenesis), FGFR2 (activation of the RAS-MAPK and the PI3K-AKT pathways) BRCA2 (genome stability), BCL2 (apoptosis regulator) were commonly altered in both cohorts.

Conclusions: Our study demonstrates significant differences in the genetic characteristics of colon tumors from AA compared to CA that suggest a deficiency of appropriate immune defense features in terms of gene expression. We also observed divergence in the mutational profiling between the groups, including numerous genes that are indicative of prognosis, treatment and outcomes in colon cancer. As such, these deficits could be mitigated through population-specific therapeutic approaches.

Citation Format: Jenny Paredes, Jone Garai, Li Li, Melody Baddoo, Ping Ji, Sayed Imtiaz, Marzia Spagnardi, Mubarak Akadri, Raavi Gupta, Mohamed Alshal, Maksim Agaronov, Henry Talus, Jennie L. Williams, Laura Martello-Rooney, Jovanny Zabaleta. Mutational analysis of colon tumors from African American patients and potential association with cancer disparities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 3618.

Abstract B076: The effect of C1q and gC1qR in breast cancer: Racial health disparities

Breast cancer is one of the most highly diagnosed cancers in the US with African American (AA) women developing a more aggressive form of the cancer at a younger age. The complement system, part of the immune system, is tightly regulated and able to eliminate foreign invaders. Complement proteins can induce cancer cell apoptosis or increased proliferation. Cell surface expression of C1q, apart of the classical pathway of the complement system, and its receptor, gC1qR, is enhanced in malignant cells. Upon treatment with antibody to C1q, an antiproliferative effect in breast cancer cells was observed in vitro. Antibody recognizing gC1qR enhances breast cancer cell survival by promoting angiogenesis and metastasis. It was noted in a panel of breast cancer cell lines that MDA-MB-468, an AA derived cell line, did not express gC1qR compared to three Caucasian American (CA) derived cell lines. In a second study, a lower expression level of gC1qR in the membranes of three AA breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-468, HCC70, and HCC1500) compared to a CA cell line (MDA-MB-231) was observed. We hypothesize that treatment with anti-C1q will have an antiproliferative effect on breast cancer cell lines, while treatment with anti-gC1qR will have a pro-proliferative effect. One CA (MDA-MB-231) and three AA (MDA-MB-468, HCC1500, and HCC7) breast cancer cell lines were treated with anti-C1q in solution at increasing concentrations where an antiproliferative effect was observed. Coating the culture plate with C1q will determine differential expression. Therefore, the role of C1q and gC1qR on cytokinetics and in racial health disparities are being accessed.

Citation Format: Tiana N Reyes, Matthew G Digiovanni, Jennie L Williams, Berhane Ghebrehiwet. The effect of C1q and gC1qR in breast cancer: Racial health disparities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr B076.

Understanding the effects of the bovine POLLED variants

Horns are paired appendages on the head of bovine species, comprising an inner bony core and outer keratin sheath. The horn bud forms during early fetal development but ossification of the developing horn does not occur until approximately 1 month after birth. Little is known about the genetic pathways that lead to horn growth. Hornless, or polled, animals are found in all domestic bovids. Histological studies of bovine fetuses have shown that the horn bud does not form in polled individuals. There are currently four known genetic variants for polledness in cattle on BTA1. All of the variants are intergenic, but probably affect regulation of nearby genes or long non-coding RNAs. Transcriptomic studies suggest that the expression of two nearby long non-coding RNAs are affected by the Celtic POLLED variant, but further studies are required to confirm these data. Candidate genes located elsewhere in the genome are involved in regulating bone formation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Expression of one of these candidate genes, RXFP2, appears to be reduced in the fetal horn bud of polled animals carrying the Celtic variant compared with horned individuals. Investigating horn ontogenesis and the genetic pathway by which the POLLED variants prevent horn development has implications for cattle breeding. If the genetic basis of horn bud formation and polledness is better understood, then new targets may be identified for precision genome editing to create polled individuals.

Loss of the Krüppel-like factor 4 tumor suppressor is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer

Aim:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cancer-related cause of death due to its propensity to metastasize. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a multistep process important for invasion and metastasis of CRC. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is a zinc finger transcription factor highly expressed in differentiated cells of the intestinal epithelium. KLF4 has been shown to play a tumor suppressor role during CRC tumorigenesis - its loss accelerates development and progression of cancer. The present study examined the relationship between KLF4 and markers of EMT in CRC.

Methods:

Immunofluorescence staining for KLF4 and EMT markers was performed on archived patient samples after colorectal cancer resection and on colonic tissues of mice with colitis-associated cancer.

Results:

We found that KLF4 expression is lost in tumor sections obtained from CRC patients and in those of mouse colon following azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS) treatment when compared to their respective normal appearing mucosa. Importantly, in CRC patient tumor sections, we observed a negative correlation between KLF4 levels and mesenchymal markers including TWIST, β-catenin, claudin-1, N-cadherin, and vimentin. Similarly, in tumor tissues from AOM/DSS-treated mice, KLF4 levels were negatively correlated with mesenchymal markers including SNAI2, β-catenin, and vimentin and positively correlated with the epithelial marker E-cadherin.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that the loss of KLF4 expression is a potentially significant indicator of EMT in CRC.

Profiling bovine blastocyst microRNAs using deep sequencing

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to control several reproductive functions, including oocyte maturation, implantation and early embryonic development. Recent advances in deep sequencing have allowed the analysis of all miRNAs of a sample. However, when working with embryos, due to the low RNA content, miRNA profiling is challenging because of the relatively large amount of total RNA required for library preparation protocols. In the present study we compared three different procedures for RNA extraction and prepared libraries using pools of 30 bovine blastocysts. In total, 14 of the 15 most abundantly expressed miRNAs were common to all three procedures. Furthermore, using miRDeep discovery and annotation software (Max Delbrück Center), we identified 1363 miRNA sequences, of which bta-miR-10b and bta-miR-378 were the most abundant. Most of the 179 genes identified as experimentally validated (86.6%) or predicted targets (13.4%) were associated with cancer canonical pathways. We conclude that reliable analysis of bovine blastocyst miRNAs can be achieved using the procedures described herein. The repeatability of the results across different procedures and independent replicates, as well as their consistency with results obtained in other species, support the biological relevance of these miRNAs and of the gene pathways they modulate in early embryogenesis.

Abstract IA19: Cancer chemotherapy and the tools needed to advance treatment in a medical diverse population

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Western world. The mortality from colorectal cancer in Caucasian American (CAs) has been declining, but the death rate continues to be higher in African Americans (AAs), maintaining the racial disparity. In addition, AAs more often present with CRC at advanced stages contributing to the lower five-year survival rate. Hispanic-Americans (HAs) have significantly lower CRC incidence and mortality rates when compared with non-Hispanic AA (NH-AA) and non-Hispanic CA (NH-CA) populations. However, rates among HAs are significantly higher than those among residents of Puerto Rico and other Spanish-speaking countries in South and Central America. Furthermore, preliminary data and documented results show that for HA the age at presentation is lower and the stage of the disease is higher than that of AA and CAs. We hypothesize that various factors (i.e., familial, socioeconomic, environmental, and dietary) may contribute to the underlying problem of colon cancer racial/ethnic health disparity. Also, it has been noted that the response to chemopreventive agents differ as to the biologic/genetic heterogeneity of the tumors of NH-AAs, Has, and NH-CAs. Since chemopreventive agents exert their effect through a molecular target, this disparity would suggest differences at the genetic level. Therefore, the formulation and evaluation of chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agents that address the issue of differential chemoresponse and chemoresistance is essential to survival. To study, in vitro and in vivo, the development of and chemoresponsiveness of therapeutic agents to colonic diseases in diverse populations, the availability of the appropriate cells (cell lines/organoids) and animal (PDX) models is critical. Our overarching goal is to assess racial and ethnic genetic/epigenetic dysregulations and associate these changes to chemoresponse and colon cancer racial disparity. The availability of these biologic tools will facilitate overcoming differential incidence and outcome seen among racial and ethnic groups for CRC. To achieve this goal, we are generating and characterizing novel cell lines, PDXs, and organoids derived from NH-CAs, Has, and AAs patients with colorectal cancer. Downstream use of these biologic tools will assist our group and the scientific community at large in improving targeted personal cancer treatment. This research effort is inclusive of all and will benefit a diverse population.

Citation Format: Jennie L. Williams. Cancer chemotherapy and the tools needed to advance treatment in a medical diverse population [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Tenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2017 Sep 25-28; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2018;27(7 Suppl):Abstract nr IA19.

Landscape of copy number variations in Bos taurus: individual - and inter-breed variability

Background

The number of studies of Copy Number Variation in cattle has increased in recent years. This has been prompted by the increased availability of data on polymorphisms and their relationship with phenotypes. In addition, livestock species are good models for some human phenotypes. In the present study, we described the landscape of CNV driven genetic variation in a large population of 146 individuals representing 13 cattle breeds, using whole genome DNA sequence.

Results

A highly significant variation among all individuals and within each breed was observed in the number of duplications (P < 10⁻¹⁵) and in the number of deletions (P < 10⁻¹⁵). We also observed significant differences between breeds for duplication (P = 0.01932) and deletion (P = 0.01006) counts. The same variation CNV length - inter-individual and inter-breed differences were significant for duplications (P < 10⁻¹⁵) and deletions (P < 10⁻¹⁵). Moreover, breed-specific variants were identified, with the largest proportion of breed-specific duplications (9.57%) found for Fleckvieh and breed-specific deletions found for Brown Swiss (5.00%). Such breed-specific CNVs were predominantly located in intragenic regions, however in Simmental, one deletion present in five individuals was found in the coding sequence of a novel gene ENSBTAG00000000688 on chromosome 18. In Brown Swiss, Norwegian Red and Simmental breed-specific deletions were located within KIT and MC1R genes, which are responsible for a coat colour. The functional annotation of coding regions underlying the breed-specific CNVs showed that in Norwegian Red, Guernsey, and Simmental significantly under- and overrepresented GO terms were related to chemical stimulus involved in sensory perception of smell and the KEGG pathways for olfactory transduction. In addition, specifically for the Norwegian Red breed, the dopaminergic synapse KEGG pathway was significantly enriched within deleted parts of the genome.

Conclusions

The CNV landscape in Bos taurus genome revealed by this study was highly complex, with inter-breed differences, but also a significant variation within breeds. The former, may explain some of the phenotypic differences among analysed breeds, and the latter contributes to within-breed variation available for selection.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4815-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Evaluation of responses to vaccination of Angus cattle for four viruses that contribute to bovine respiratory disease complex

Although vaccination is an effective measure in reducing the risk of bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) in cattle, BRDC losses remain significant. Increasing the efficacy of vaccination depends on elucidating the protective immune response to different antigens included in vaccines, determining the best timing for vaccination, and understanding the impact of the age of the calf on vaccination. This study measured the serum antibodies present in calves following vaccination against 4 viruses commonly associated with BRDC: bovine viral diarrhea virus type 1 and 2 (BVDV1 and BVDV2), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV1). Serum antibody titers were measured in more than 1,600 calves at 3-wk intervals starting at the time of the first vaccination. This first vaccination occurred at weaning for approximately half of the individuals and 3 wk before weaning for the other half. Dam age (years), time of weaning (initial vaccination or booster vaccination), and age of calf within year-season (days within year-season) classification all were found to have a significant effect on measured traits such as the initial titer and overall response. An increased initial titer was negatively correlated with each response trait (initial, booster, and overall response). Calves that were weaned at initial vaccination had greater overall antibody response to BVDV1 and BVDV2 compared with calves weaned 3 wk before initial vaccination. In contrast, calves given their initial vaccination 3 wk before weaning had greater overall antibody response to BRSV and BHV1 compared with calves that were vaccinated at weaning. Furthermore, the circulating antibody titer at which each virus needed to be below for an individual calf to positively respond to vaccination was determined (log titer of 0.38 for BVDV1, 1.5 for BVDV2, 3.88 for BRSV, and 1.5 for BHV1). This information can be used to improve vaccination protocols to allow for a greater response rate of individuals to vaccination and, hopefully, improved protection.

A novel tricarbonylmethane agent (CMC2.24) reduces human pancreatic tumor growth in mice by targeting Ras

Pancreatic Cancer (PC) is a deadly disease in need of new therapeutic options. We recently developed a novel tricarbonylmethane agent (CMC2.24) as a therapeutic agent for PC, and evaluated its efficacy in preclinical models of PC. CMC2.24 inhibited the growth of various human PC cell lines in a concentration and time-dependent manner. Normal human pancreatic epithelial cells were resistant to CMC2.24, indicating selectivity. CMC2.24 reduced the growth of subcutaneous and orthotopic PC xenografts in mice by up to 65% (P < 0.02), and the growth of a human patient-derived tumor xenograft by 47.5% (P < 0.03 vs vehicle control). Mechanistically, CMC2.24 inhibited the Ras-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway. Based on Ras Pull-Down Assays, CMC2.24 inhibited Ras-GTP, the active form of Ras, in MIA PaCa-2 cells and in pancreatic acinar explants isolated from Kras mutant mice, by 90.3% and 89.1%, respectively (P < 0.01, for both). The inhibition of active Ras led to an inhibition of c-RAF, MEK, and ERK phosphorylation by 93%, 91%, and 87%, respectively (P < 0.02, for all) in PC xenografts. Furthermore, c-RAF overexpression partially rescued MIA PaCa-2 cells from the cell growth inhibition by CMC2.24. In addition, downstream of ERK, CMC2.24 inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation levels at the serine 727 residue, enhanced the levels of superoxide anion in mitochondria, and induced intrinsic apoptosis as shown by the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to the cytosol and the further cleavage of caspase 9 in PC cells. In conclusion, CMC2.24, a potential Ras inhibitor, is an efficacious agent for PC treatment in preclinical models, deserving further evaluation.

Evidence of early defects in Cajal-Retzius cell localization during brain development in a mouse model of dystroglycanopathy

AIMS

The secondary dystroglycanopathies represent a heterogeneous group of congenital muscular dystrophies characterized by the defective glycosylation of alpha dystroglycan. These disorders are associated with mutations in at least 17 genes, including Fukutin-related protein (FKRP). At the severe end of the clinical spectrum there is substantial brain involvement, and cobblestone lissencephaly is highly suggestive of these disorders. The precise pathogenesis of this phenotype has, however, remained unclear with most attention focused on the disruption to the radial glial scaffold. Here, we set out to investigate whether lesions are apparent prior to the differentiation of the radial glia.

METHODS

A detailed investigation of the structural brain defects from embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5) up until the time of birth (P0) was undertaken in the Fkrp-deficient mice (FKRP^KD ). Reelin, and downstream PI3K/Akt signalling pathways were analysed using Western blot.

RESULTS

We show that early basement membrane defects and neuroglial ectopia precede radial glial cell differentiation. Furthermore, we identify mislocalization of Cajal-Retzius cells which nonetheless is not associated with any apparent disruption to the reelin, and downstream PI3K/Akt signalling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations identify Cajal-Retzius cell mislocalization as an early event during the development of cortical defects thereby identifying an earlier onset and more complex pathogenesis than originally reported for the secondary dystroglycanopathies. Overall this study provides new insight into central nervous system involvement in this group of diseases.

Aberrant DNA Methylation: Implications in Racial Health Disparity

Background

Incidence and mortality rates of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) are higher in African Americans (AAs) than in Caucasian Americans (CAs). Deficient micronutrient intake due to dietary restrictions in racial/ethnic populations can alter genetic and molecular profiles leading to dysregulated methylation patterns and the inheritance of somatic to germline mutations.

Materials and Methods

Total DNA and RNA samples of paired tumor and adjacent normal colon tissues were prepared from AA and CA CRC specimens. Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) and RNA sequencing were employed to evaluate total genome methylation of 5’-regulatory regions and dysregulation of gene expression, respectively. Robust analysis was conducted using a trimming-and-retrieving scheme for RRBS library mapping in conjunction with the BStool toolkit.

Results

DNA from the tumor of AA CRC patients, compared to adjacent normal tissues, contained 1,588 hypermethylated and 100 hypomethylated differentially methylated regions (DMRs). Whereas, 109 hypermethylated and 4 hypomethylated DMRs were observed in DNA from the tumor of CA CRC patients; representing a 14.6-fold and 25-fold change, respectively. Specifically; CHL1, 4 anti-inflammatory genes (i.e., NELL1, GDF1, ARHGEF4, and ITGA4), and 7 miRNAs (of which miR-9-3p and miR-124-3p have been implicated in CRC) were hypermethylated in DNA samples from AA patients with CRC. From the same sample set, RNAseq analysis revealed 108 downregulated genes (including 14 ribosomal proteins) and 34 upregulated genes (including POLR2B and CYP1B1 [targets of miR-124-3p]) in AA patients with CRC versus CA patients.

Conclusion

DNA methylation profile and/or products of its downstream targets could serve as biomarker(s) addressing racial health disparity.

Abstract P2-13-02: Radiation and depression associated with complications of tissue expander reconstruction

Background: Rates of implant failure, wound healing delay, and infection are higher in patients having RT after tissue expander (TE) and permanent implant reconstruction. Some have suggested greater complications with increased body mass index (BMI) and with diabetes.

Patients and Methods: 127 patients had bilateral TE reconstruction and radiation from 2003 to 2013 at two centers. In 95% (121/127) of cases RT was performed while the TE was in place with the permanent implant inserted after RT. 3D-CRT technique included 50 Gy with daily or every other day bolus and forward planned segments. The supraclavicular and/or internal mammary lymph node bearing regions were treated in 82.7% (105/127) cases. The non-irradiated breast provided an internal control. Chi-squared testing of pretreatment factors included radiation, chemotherapy, and medical history of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular, and pulmonary disease. BMI, tobacco and alcohol use, use of antiestrogen, statin, antidepressant, antihypertensive, anxiolytics, and antidiabetic medications were also studied. Comparison of differences in means for continuous variables used analysis of variance, then multiple pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni correction of p-value.

Results: Mean age was 53 ± 10.1 years with just 14.6% African- American. Twelve (9.4%) were BRCA positive (9 BRCA1, 4 BRCA2, 1 Both). Nearly all complications were in the radiated breast. Complications were: Grade 0 (no complication; 43.9%), Grade 1 (tightness and/or drifting of implant or Baker grade II capsular contracture; 30.9 %), Grade 2 (infection, hypertrophic scarring, or incisional necrosis; 9.8%), Grade 3 (Baker grade III capsular contracture, wound dehiscence, or impending exposure of implant; 5.7%), Grade 4 (implant failure, exchange of implant, or Baker grade IV capsular contracture; 9.8%). 15.3 percent (19 cases) experienced grade 3 or 4 complication and 9.8% (12 cases) had grade 4 complication. Considering non-irradiated breasts, there were two (1.6%) Grade 3-4 complications. For BMI, there was no significant difference by category as defined by the CDC (p=0.91). Patients history of HRT tended to be more likely to have Grade 3 or 4 complications (31.8% vs 12.4% respectively; p=0.08). Patients with depression were more likely to experience a Grade 3 or 4 complication (29.4% vs 13.2%; p=0.01). Multiple logistic regression was used to predict the probability of a Grade 3 or 4 complication with HR use and depression as independent variables. Patients with depression were 4.2 times more likely to have a Grade 3 or 4 complication (OR=4.2, p=0.03) and patients with a history of HRT use were 3.4 times more likely to experience a Grade 3 or 4 complication (OR = 3.4, p=0.04). Only clinical diagnosis of depression was considered as 12/31 (38.7%) with antidepressants used only venlafaxine. Neither BRCA status (p=0.72) nor chemotherapy factors (p=0.42) were associated with complication rates.

Conclusions: Higher rates of TE reconstruction complications may be expected in patients receiving radiotherapy. Patients reporting medical history of depression or HRT use showed statistically significant increase in complication rates. This effect might be attributed to a drug effect or to patient factors such as body image.

Citation Format: Wagner RM, Spzunar SM, Stefani WA, Falk JS, Williams JL, Edhayan E, Dul CL, Rodriguez D, Busuito MJ, Browne CH, Aref A, Rabbani AN, Chuba PJ. Radiation and depression associated with complications of tissue expander reconstruction. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-13-02.

Differential expression of miRNAs in colon cancer between African and Caucasian Americans: implications for cancer racial health disparities

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are higher in African Americans (AAs) than in Caucasian Americans (CAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) have been found to be dysregulated in colonic and other neoplasias. The aim of this exploratory study was to identify candidate miRNAs that could contribute to potential biological differences between AA and CA colon cancers. Total RNA was isolated from tumor and paired adjacent normal colon tissue from 30 AA and 31 CA colon cancer patients archived at Stony Brook University (SBU) and Washington University (WU)‑St. Louis Medical Center. miRNA profiles were determined by probing human genome-wide miRNA arrays with RNA isolated from each sample. Using repeated measures analysis of variance (RANOVA), miRNAs were selected that exhibited significant (p<0.05) interactions between race and tumor or significant (fold change >1.5, p<0.05) main effects of race and/or tumor. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) was used to confirm miRNAs identified by microarray analysis. Candidate miRNA targets were analyzed using immunohistochemistry. RANOVA results indicated that miR-182, miR152, miR-204, miR-222 and miR-202 exhibited significant race and tumor main effects. Of these miRNAs, q-PCR analysis confirmed that miR-182 was upregulated in AA vs. CA tumors and exhibited significant race:tumor interaction. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the levels of FOXO1 and FOXO3A, two potential miR-182 targets, are reduced in AA tumors. miRNAs may play a role in the differences between AA and CA colon cancer. Specifically, differences in miRNA expression levels of miR-182 may contribute to decreased survival in AA colon cancer patients.

Comparison of arthroscopic and MRI findings of osteochondral damage in knees

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are widely used in the assessment of knees, often prior to arthroscopic procedures. The reporting of osteochondral damage on MRI scans can be variable. The correlation between MRI reports of osteochondral damage and that found at arthroscopy is often inconsistent. A retrospective case-note review of a single-surgeon series of 175 arthroscopic procedures was performed. Eighty-three patients were included in the study. The remainder were excluded if an MRI scan had not been performed or had been performed more than 3-months before surgery. The condition of the articular cartilage demonstrated by MRI was compared to that found at arthroscopy. Data was analysed for presence and extent of osteochondral damage. Comparison between MRI and arthroscopy findings showed high specificity (90%) and negative predictive values (89%) for osteochondral damage but low sensitivity (46%). Cohen's kappa values < 0.2 revealed very poor correlation for the extent of damage. This study demonstrates MRI as a good identifier of osteochondral damage but an unreliable descriptor for such change.

Hyponatraemia in cancer patients on an inpatient rehabilitation unit

This study identifies the incidence of hyponatraemia in cancer patients on an inpatient rehabilitation unit and examines the association between admission hyponatraemia and rehabilitation length of stay (LOS), functional outcome, and survival. After institutional review committee's approval, we retrospectively reviewed medical records of 295 consecutive patients who were admitted to this inpatient cancer rehabilitation unit between 27 January 2009 through 31 July 2010 in a tertiary cancer centre. The incidence of hyponatraemia in cancer patients admitted to our inpatient rehabilitation unit was 41.4%. Median rehabilitation LOS for patients with mild (Na 130-134 mEq/L) and moderate-severe (Na < 130 mEq/L) hyponatraemia was 11 and 15 days, respectively, which was significantly longer than patients with eunatraemia (10 days; P = 0.03). Functional Independence Measure gain for ambulation and transfers during inpatient rehabilitation stay was not significantly different between three different patient groups. We concluded that large portion of patients who require acute inpatient rehabilitation presented with hyponatraemia, which is associated with prolonged rehabilitation LOS. Whether aggressive management of hyponatraemia will shorten rehabilitation stay needs further study.

Preliminary anti-cancer photodynamic therapeutic in vitro studies with mixed-metal binuclear ruthenium(II)-vanadium(IV) complexes

We report the synthesis and characterisation of mixed-metal binuclear ruthenium(II)-vanadium(IV) complexes, which were used as potential photodynamic therapeutic agents for melanoma cell growth inhibition. The novel complexes, [Ru(pbt)2(phen2DTT)](PF6)2·1.5H2O 1 (where phen2DTT = 1,4-bis(1,10-phenanthrolin-5-ylsulfanyl)butane-2,3-diol and pbt = 2-(2'-pyridyl)benzothiazole) and [Ru(pbt)2(tpphz)](PF6)2·3H2O 2 (where tpphz = tetrapyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c:3'',2''-h:2''',3'''-j]phenazine) were synthesised and characterised. Compound 1 was reacted with [VO(sal-L-tryp)(H2O)] (where sal-L-tryp = N-salicylidene-L-tryptophanate) to produce [Ru(pbt)2(phen2DTT)VO(sal-L-tryp)](PF6)2·5H2O 4; while [VO(sal-L-tryp)(H2O)] was reacted with compound 2 to produce [Ru(pbt)2(tpphz)VO(sal-L-tryp)](PF6)2·6H2O 3. All complexes were characterised by elemental analysis, HRMS, ESI MS, UV-visible absorption, ESR spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry, where appropriate. In vitro cell toxicity studies (with the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay) via dark and light reaction conditions were carried out with sodium diaqua-4,4',4'',4''' tetrasulfophthalocyaninecobaltate(II) (Na4[Co(tspc)(H2O)2]), [VO(sal-L-tryp)(phen)]·H2O, and the chloride salts of complexes 3 and 4. Such studies involved A431, human epidermoid carcinoma cells; human amelanotic malignant melanoma cells; and HFF, non-cancerous human skin fibroblast cells. Both chloride salts of complexes 3 and 4 were found to be more toxic to melanoma cells than to non-cancerous fibroblast cells, and preferentially led to apoptosis of the melanoma cells over non-cancerous skin cells. The anti-cancer property of the chloride salts of complexes 3 and 4 was further enhanced when treated cells were exposed to light, while no such effect was observed on non-cancerous skin fibroblast cells. ESR and (51)V NMR spectroscopic studies were also used to assess the stability of the chloride salts of complexes 3 and 4 in aqueous media at pH 7.19. This research illustrates the potential for using mixed-metal binuclear ruthenium(II)-vanadium(IV) complexes to fight skin cancer.

Genes involved in muscle lipid composition in 15 European Bos taurus breeds

Consumers demand healthy and palatable meat, both factors being affected by fat composition. However, red meat has relatively high concentration of saturated fatty acids and low concentration of the beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids. To select animals prone to produce particular fat types, it is necessary to identify the genes influencing muscle lipid composition. This paper describes an association study in which a large panel of candidate genes involved in adipogenesis, lipid metabolism and energy homoeostasis was tested for effects on fat composition in 15 European cattle breeds. Sixteen genes were found to have significant effects on different lipid traits, and among these, CFL1 and MYOZ1 were found to have large effects on the ratio of 18:2/18:3, CRI1 on the amount of neutral adrenic acid (22:4 n-6), MMP1 on docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n-3) and conjugated linoleic acid, PLTP on the ratio of n-6:n-3 and IGF2R on flavour. Several genes - ALDH2, CHRNE, CRHR2, DGAT1, IGFBP3, NEB, SOCS2, SUSP1, TCF12 and FOXO1 - also were found to be associated with both lipid and organoleptic traits although with smaller effect. The results presented here help in understanding the genetic and biochemical background underlying variations in fatty acid composition and flavour in beef.

The Effect of Race/Ethnicity on the Age of Colon Cancer Diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Notably, racial/ethnic disparities exist in both incidence and mortality.

PURPOSE

The aim of this case study was to investigate the impact of race/ethnicity on age at diagnosis of colorectal cancer in a defined population in Suffolk County, NY.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively collected on race/ethnicity, health insurance status, age at diagnosis, stage at diagnosis, gender, smoking status, alcohol intake, tumor location, and body mass index for colorectal cancer patients with medical records in the Stony Brook University Medical Center database (2005-2011). Population-based data on Hispanic and non-Hispanic Whites were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry of New York State for an overlapping time period. Permutation-based ANCOVA and logistic regression with stepwise variable selection were conducted to identify covariates and first-order interactions associated with younger age at diagnosis and cancer stage as a dependent categorical variable.

RESULTS

Of 328 colorectal cancer patients, Hispanics were diagnosed at a median younger age of 57y vs. 67y than non-Hispanic Whites (FDR = 0.001). Twenty-six percent of Hispanics were diagnosed with colorectal cancer prior to the recommended age (50y) for colorectal cancer surveillance compared to 11% of non-Hispanic Whites (FDR =0.007). Analysis of New York State registry data corroborated our findings that Hispanic colorectal cancer patients were diagnosed at a median younger age than non-Hispanic Whites. Permutation-based ANCOVA identified race/ethnicity and health insurance as significantly associated with age of diagnosis (P=0.001). Logistic regression selected (younger) age at diagnosis as being significantly associated with stage IV disease. The limitations of the case study reside in the use of self-reporting of race and ethnicity and in the small sample sizes.

CONCLUSIONS

Hispanics may be at higher risk for colorectal cancer (<50>y) and younger age at diagnosis is associated with advanced disease.

A novel NSAID derivative, phospho-ibuprofen, prevents AOM-induced colon cancer in rats

The cancer chemopreventive properties and gastrointestinal toxicity of ibuprofen are well documented. Modification of existing NSAIDs has improved on the chemopreventive efficacy of this agent and reduced its toxicity. In this study, ibuprofen and a modified derivative (phospho-modified ibuprofen or p-ibuprofen) were used in a chemically induced model of colon cancer. Fisher 344 rats were injected with azoxymethane then treated with either ibuprofen (500 ppm) or p-ibuprofen (900 ppm) for 20 weeks to observe aberrant crypt foci (ACF) or 40 weeks to evaluate tumor incidence and multiplicity. β-catenin and p65 were measured in colonic tissues by immunofluorescence staining. Equal molar doses of ibuprofen (75 and 670 mg/kg) and p-ibuprofen (135 and 1,215 mg/kg) were administered to rats for 7 days to assess acute toxicity. The in vitro effect of p-ibuprofen on COX-2 and PGE(2) synthesis, β-catenin expression and NF-κB activity were examined in RAW 264.7 macrophage and HCT 116 colon cancer cells. At week 20, p-ibuprofen and ibuprofen significantly reduced the multiplicity of ACF compared with control (p<0.05); 31.2 and 37.9%, respectively. At week 40, p-ibuprofen and ibuprofen reduced the multiplicity of colon tumors compared with control (p<0.01) by 47.2 and 56.6%, respectively. Equal molar concentrations of ibuprofen (670 mg/kg) and p-ibuprofen (1,215 mg/kg) resulted in stomach ulceration in 85.7% (6 out of 7) and 14.3% (1 out of 7) of rats, respectively, with p<0.01. Immunofluoresence staining and western blot analysis demonstrated that both ibuprofen and p-ibuprofen suppressed β-catenin nuclear translocation in colon cancer cells. In addition, p-ibuprofen but not ibuprofen inhibited NF-κB activation in colon cancer cells. Collectively, these results suggest that p-ibuprofen is a potential effective novel drug for long-term use in colon cancer prevention.

Genotype by environment interaction for growth due to altitude in United States Angus cattle

The objectives of this study were to determine if sires perform consistently across altitude and to quantify the genetic relationship between growth and survival at differing altitudes. Data from the American Angus Association included weaning weight (WW) adjusted to 205 (n = 77,771) and yearling weight adjusted to 365 (n = 39,450) d of age from 77,771 purebred Angus cattle born in Colorado between 1972 and 2007. Postweaning gain (PWG) was calculated by subtracting adjusted WW from adjusted yearling weight. Altitude was assigned to each record based upon the zip code of each herd in the database. Records for WW and PWG were each split into 2 traits measured at low and high altitude, with the records from medium altitude removed from the data due to inconsistencies between growth performance and apparent culling rate. A binary trait, survival (SV), was defined to account for censored records at yearling for each altitude. It was assumed that, at high altitude, individuals missing a yearling weight either died or required relocation to a lower altitude predominantly due to brisket disease, a condition common at high altitude. Model 1 considered each WW and PWG measured at 2 altitudes as separate traits. Model 2 treated PWG and SV measured as separate traits due to altitude. Models included the effects of weaning contemporary group, age of dam, animal additive genetic effects, and residual. Maternal genetic and maternal permanent environmental effects were included for WW. Heritability estimates for WW in Model 1 were 0.28 and 0.26 and for PWG were 0.26 and 0.19 with greater values in low altitude. Genetic correlations between growth traits measured at different altitude were moderate in magnitude: 0.74 for WW and 0.76 for PWG and indicate possibility of reranking of sires across altitude. Maternal genetic correlation between WW at varying altitude of 0.75 also indicates these may be different traits. In Model 2, heritabilities were 0.14 and 0.27 for PWG and 0.36 and 0.47 for SV. Genetic correlation between PWG measured at low and high altitude was 0.68. Favorable genetic correlations were estimated between SV and PWG within and between altitudes, suggesting that calves with genetics for increased growth from weaning to yearling also have increased genetic potential for SV. Genetic evaluations of PWG in different altitudes should consider preselection of the data, by using a censoring trait, like survivability to yearling.

Behavioral changes in neonatal swine after an 8-hour rest during prolonged transportation

Long distance transportation of weaned piglets (Sus scrofa) is increasingly common in the united states and may result in delayed eating, drinking, or normal social behaviors. A potential solution is a mid-journey rest (lairage). The objective of this study was to determine if a lairage altered behavior after a 16-h transport. Pigs that weighed approximately 18 kg each (n = 894) were housed in 16 pens with 8 pens per treatment. Lairaged pigs were transported for 8 h and given an 8-h rest with food and water, whereas control pigs were transported continuously for 16 h. The heaviest, the lightest, and 2 average-BW pigs relative to the average weight of the pen were observed by video recording for 24 h immediately before and after transport, and during d 6 and 13 after transport. Postures (lying, sitting, and standing) were recorded using 10-min-interval scan sampling, and behavioral categories included inactivity, activities (eating, drinking, alert, manipulating pen, rooting, and walking) and social interactions (aggression, belly nosing, playing, tail biting, and positive social behaviors). In both treatments, sitting occurred most before transport (P < 0.01) than at other times, but did not differ between treatments. Standing increased (time effect; P < 0.01) for both treatments immediately after transport through d 6, but returned to pre-transport values by d 13. In contrast, lying decreased (time effect; P < 0.01) after transport, but returned to above pre-transport values by d 13. Time effects were evident for activity (P < 0.01), pen manipulation (P = 0.05), rooting (P < 0.01), initiation of belly-nosing (P = 0.01), and receiving belly-nosing (P = 0.03); however, initiation of aggression did not differ for day (P = 0.19) or treatment (P = 0.56). Lairaged pigs initiated more (P = 0.05) play than continuously transported pigs, but no differences (P = 0.84) were seen in receipt of play behavior. Pigs that were to be transported for 16 h continuously walked less pre-transport, walked more post-transport (treatment × time interaction; P = 0.02), and drank less pre-transport, but drank more on all days post-transport compared with the lairage group (treatment × time interaction; P = 0.001). This study indicated that extended transport without lairage alters some swine behaviors relevant to production (water consumption) and demonstrated that a long-duration transport, regardless of the mid-journey lairage treatment, affects a number of behaviors up to 13 d after transportation.

Genotype by region and season interactions on weaning weight in United States Angus cattle

The objective of this study was to determine if weaning weight performance is genetically consistent across different environments in the United States. The American Angus Association provided weight and pedigree data. Weaning weights observed in the Southeast (SoE) and Northwest (NW) were the focus of this study, as these regions are perceived as opposite extremes in climate. The 2 most represented calving seasons in each region were fall and winter in the SoE and winter and spring in the NW. The original data were edited to remove weaning weight records outside of 3 SD from the respective region-season mean, contemporary groups smaller than 20, and single-sire contemporary groups. The final dataset included 884,465 weaning weight records with 64,907 from fall-born calves in the SoE, 74,820 from winter-born calves in the SoE, 346,724 from winter-born calves in the NW and 398,014 from spring-born calves in the NW. Weaning weights of calves born in different region-season classes adjusted to 205 d of age were considered different but genetically correlated traits in a multivariate analysis. The sole fixed effect was weaning contemporary group and random effects included direct, maternal, maternal permanent environment, and a residual. Direct heritability estimates differed little across environments: 0.31 and 0.35 for weight in fall- and winter-born calves in the SoE, and 0.29 and 0.32 for winter- and spring-born calves in NW. Maternal heritability estimates ranged from 0.12 in the NW to 0.16 the SoE. Genetic correlations spanned from 0.69 to 0.93 among direct effects and from 0.65 to 0.95 among maternal effects. All heritability estimates had small (0.01 to 0.04) SE. The most distinct environments appeared to be winter in SoE and spring in NW (correlations of 0.69 and 0.65 for the direct and maternal effects). Different choices of sires for different environments might be justified to achieve the growth performance expected.

Nitric oxide-donating aspirin induces G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in human cancer cells by regulating phase transition proteins

NO-aspirin (NO-ASA), consisting of aspirin and a nitric oxide-releasing group, is safer than aspirin and effective in colon cancer prevention. Here, we examined the mechanism of action of NO-ASA by focusing primarily on its effects on the cell cycle. NO-ASA reduced the growth of several cell lines from colon, pancreas, skin, cervix and breast cancer much more potently than aspirin, with 24-h IC(50) values of 133-268 µM, while those of ASA were >1,000 µM. NO-ASA elevated the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species, generating a state of oxidative stress. In all cell lines examined, NO-ASA induced cell cycle arrest in the G(2)/M phase transition accompanied by altered expression of G(2)/M transition-related proteins. In SW480 colon cancer cells NO-ASA modulated proteins controlling this transition. Thus, it markedly increased the levels of cyclin B1, decreased the expression of cyclin D1 and Cdc25C, and increased the Thr14/Tyr15-phosphorylation of Cdk1 while leaving unchanged its protein levels. These changes, including the G2/M arrest, were prevented by pretreating the cells with the anti-oxidant N-acetyl-cysteine, indicating that redox signaling is likely responsible for the cell cycle changes, a conclusion consistent with the known redox regulation of these proteins. Collectively, these results confirm the profound cytokinetic effect of NO-ASA and provide strong evidence that it regulates cell cycle transitions through its ability to induce oxidative stress, which activates redox signaling in the target cell.

Abstract 3817: Nitric oxide-donating aspirin induces G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in human cancer cells by regulating phase transition proteins

NO-aspirin (NO-ASA), consisting of aspirin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a nitric oxide (NO)-releasing group, is reportedly safer than aspirin and effective in colon cancer chemoprevention. NO-ASA reduced the growth of several cancer cell lines much more potently than aspirin, with IC50 values at 24-h as follows: (a) colon (HT-29, SW480, HCT-15, and LoVo) 174 to 257 µM; (b) pancreas (BxPC-3), 175 µM; (c) skin (A431), 133 µM; (d) cervix (Hela), 240 µM; and (e) breast (MCF-7), 268 µM. In all instances, the IC50 values for the parent compound were &gt;1,000 µM. To assess NO-ASA's mechanism of action, we studied in vitro its effect on colonocyte kinetics. In all cell lines examined, the growth inhibitory effect of NO-ASA was accompanied by cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase transition. This inhibition directly correlated to altered expression of G2/M transition related proteins. Specifically, NO-ASA had a time- and concentration-dependent effect on the expression of cyclin D1. Here we propose that NO-ASA-mediated G2/M arrest is probably caused by ROS generation. This conclusion is based on (a) treatment with NO-ASA generates ROS in SW480 and (b) the G2/M arrest induced by NO-ASA is abolished on pretreatment with the antioxidant NAC. Thus, NO-ASA's superior effectiveness compared to traditional aspirin is due in part to its ability to induce G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in human cancer cells.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3817. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3817

Investigation of the genetic architecture of a bone carcass weight QTL on BTA6

A previous analysis of an F(2) /Backcross Charolais × Holstein cross population identified the presence of a highly significant QTL on chromosome 6 (BTA6) affecting the proportion of bone in the carcass. Two closely linked QTL affected birth weight (BW) and body length at birth (BBL). In this report, the marker density around the QTL on BTA6 was increased, adding four additional microsatellite markers across the chromosome and 46 SNPs within the target QTL confidence interval. Of the SNPs, 26 were in positional candidate genes and the remaining 20 provided an even distribution of markers in the target QTL region. As a bone-related trait, the sum of the bone weight for all the left fore- and hindquarter joints of the carcass was analysed. We also studied the BW and BBL. Analyses of the data substantially reduced the QTL confidence interval. No strong evidence was found that the QTL for the three traits studied are different, and we conclude that the results are consistent with a single pleiotropic QTL influencing the three traits, with the largest effects on the proportion of bone in the carcass. The analyses also suggest that none of the SNPs tested is the sole causative variant of the QTL effects. Specifically, the SNP in the NCAPG gene previously reported as a causal mutation for foetal growth and carcass traits in other cattle populations was excluded as the causal mutation for the QTL reported here. Polymorphisms located in other previously identified candidate genes including SPP1, ABCG2, IBSP, MEPE and PPARGC1A were also excluded. The results suggest that SNP51_BTA-119876 is the polymorphism in strongest linkage disequilibrium with the causal mutation(s). Further research is required to identify the causal variant(s) associated with this bone-related QTL.

Microarray analysis in caudal medulla of cattle orally challenged with bovine spongiform encephalopathy

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a fatal disorder in cattle characterized by progressive neurodegeneration of the central nervous system. We investigated the molecular mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration during prion infection through the identification of genes that are differentially expressed (DE) between experimentally infected and non-challenged cattle. Gene expression of caudal medulla from control and orally infected animals was compared by microarray analysis using 24,000 bovine oligonucleotides representing 16,846 different genes to identify DE genes associated with BSE disease. In total, 182 DE genes were identified between normal and BSE-infected tissues (>2.0-fold change, P < 0.01); 81 DE genes had gene ontology functions, which included synapse function, calcium ion regulation, immune and inflammatory response, apoptosis, and cytoskeleton organization; 13 of these genes were found to be involved in 26 different Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. The expression of five DE genes associated with synapse function (tachykinin, synuclein, neuropeptide Y, cocaine, amphetamine-responsive transcript, and synaptosomal-associated protein 25 kDa) and three DE genes associated with calcium ion regulation (parvalbumin, visinin-like, and cadherin) was further validated in the medulla tissue of cattle at different infection times (6, 12, 42, and 45 months post-infection) by qRT-PCR. These data will contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of neuropathology in bovine species.

Investigating meniscal symptoms in patients with knee osteoarthritis--is MRI an unnecessary investigation?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between radiographic knee osteoarthritis and the presence of a relevant meniscal tear detected on MRI in symptomatic patients over the age of 60. Seventy seven patients over the age of 60 who had been investigated with a knee MRI over a 1-year period were identified. Sixty patients had a full set of data available for analysis. Their plain radiographs were blindly graded for osteoarthritis using the Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) scale. The indications for the MRI were subdivided into: meniscal symptoms, general knee pain and "other". These indications were correlated with the K-L grade and result of the MRI. Overall, 40% of patients with a K-L grade of 0 had a meniscal tear compared to 89% of patients with a K-L score of 3, and 88% with a K-L score of 4. The indications for an MRI were grouped into meniscal symptoms (49), general pain (6) and other (5). In the group investigated for meniscal symptoms, the incidence of meniscal tears was 92% and 100% with a K-L grade of 3 and 4 respectively. This equated to a positive predictive value of 93% for K-L grade 3 and above, and 100% for K-L grade 4 alone. Given the predictability of the MRI findings in patients with significant osteoarthritis as well as meniscal symptoms, we conclude that this is an unnecessary investigation when used for this indication.

Epidemiology and practice patterns of achalasia in a large multi-centre database

BACKGROUND

Due to its rarity, achalasia remains a difficult disease to study.

AIMS

To describe the epidemiology of achalasia and practice patterns in its endoscopic management, utilising patient records from a large national database of endoscopic procedures.

METHODS

The Clinical Outcomes Research Initiative maintains a database of endoscopic procedures in diverse clinical practices. The data from 89 endoscopy practices distributed throughout the US during 2000-2008 were used to analyse the characteristics and therapy of patients with achalasia.

RESULTS

Among 521,497 upper endoscopies during the study period, we identified 896 patients with achalasia. Compared with the entirety of all other endoscopic diagnoses, achalasia was more common in men than in women (OR=1.39, CI 1.22-1.59), but similar among nonwhites and whites (OR=0.87, CI 0.74-1.03). Relatively, more achalasia patients were treated at university than at community practices (OR=1.52, CI 1.30-1.78). Botox injection was most frequently used as first choice of endoscopic therapy in 41%, followed by balloon dilation in 21%, Savary dilation in 20%, Maloney dilation in 10%, Rigiflex in 4% and other modalities in 4% of patients. One quarter of achalasia patients treated endoscopically underwent a repeat therapy about every 14 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Botox has become the primary choice of initial endoscopic therapy in achalasia. Despite their partial deviation from guidelines and recommendations, these endoscopic patterns reflect the current clinical practice in the United States.

Protein nitration and nitrosylation by NO-donating aspirin in colon cancer cells: Relevance to its mechanism of action

Nitric oxide-donating aspirin (NO-ASA) is a promising agent for cancer prevention. Although studied extensively, its molecular targets and mechanism of action are still unclear. S-nitrosylation of signaling proteins is emerging as an important regulatory mechanism by NO. Here, we examined whether S-nitrosylation of the NF-κB, p53, and Wnt signaling proteins by NO-ASA might explain, in part, its mechanism of action in colon cancer. NO-ASA releases significant amounts of NO detected intracellularly in HCT116 and HT-29 colon cells. Using a modified biotin switch assay we demonstrated that NO-ASA S-nitrosylates the signaling proteins p53, β-catenin, and NF-κB, in colon cancer cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. NO-ASA suppresses NF-κB binding to its cognate DNA oligonucleotide, which occurs without changes in the nuclear levels of the NF-κB subunits p65 and p50 and is reversed by dithiothreitol that reduces -S-NO to -SH. In addition to S-nitrosylation, we documented both in vitro and in vivo widespread nitration of tyrosine residues of cellular proteins in response to NO-ASA. Our results suggest that the increased intracellular NO levels following treatment with NO-ASA modulate cell signaling by chemically modifying key protein members of signaling cascades. We speculate that S-nitrosylation and tyrosine nitration are responsible, at least in part, for the inhibitory growth effect of NO-ASA on cancer cell growth and that this may represent a general mechanism of action of NO-releasing agents.

Functional characterization of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-β/δ expression in colon cancer

This study critically examined the role of PPARβ/δ in colon cancer models. Expression of PPARβ/δ mRNA and protein was lower and expression of CYCLIN D1 protein higher in human colon adenocarcinomas compared to matched non-transformed tissue. Similar results were observed in colon tumors from Apc(+/Min-FCCC) mice compared to control tissue. Dietary administration of sulindac to Apc(+/Min-FCCC) mice had no influence on expression of PPARβ/δ in normal colon tissue or colon tumors. Cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) was either increased or unchanged, while expression of 14-3-3ε was not influenced in human colon cancer cell lines cultured with the PPARβ/δ ligand GW0742 under conditions known to increase apoptosis. While DLD1 cells exhibited fewer early apoptotic cells after ligand activation of PPARβ/δ following treatment with hydrogen peroxide, this change was associated with an increase in late apoptotic/necrotic cells, but not an increase in viable cells. Stable over-expression of PPARβ/δ in human colon cancer cell lines enhanced ligand activation of PPARβ/δ and inhibition of clonogenicity in HT29 cells. These studies are the most quantitative to date to demonstrate that expression of PPARβ/δ is lower in human and Apc(+/Min-FCCC) mouse colon tumors than in corresponding normal tissue, consistent with the finding that increasing expression and activation of PPARβ/δ in human colon cancer cell lines inhibits clonogenicity. Because ligand-induced attenuation of early apoptosis can be associated with more late, apoptotic/necrotic cells, but not more viable cells, these studies illustrate why more comprehensive analysis of PPARβ/δ-dependent modulation of apoptosis is required in the future.

Relationships between Podolic cattle breeds assessed by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genotyping

Italian Maremmana, Turkish Grey and Hungarian Grey breeds belong to the same Podolic group of cattle, have a similar conformation and recently experienced a similar demographic reduction. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship among the analysed Podolic breeds and to verify whether their genetic state reflects their history. To do so, approximately 100 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped on individuals belonging to these breeds and compared to genotypes of individuals of two Italian beef breeds, Marchigiana and Piemontese, which underwent different selection and migration histories. Population genetic parameters such as allelic frequencies and heterozygosity values were assessed, genetic distances calculated and assignment test performed to evaluate the possibility of recent admixture between the populations. The data show that the physical similarity among the Podolic breeds examined, and particularly between Hungarian Grey and Maremmana cattle that experienced admixture in the recent past, is mainly morphological. The assignment of individuals from genotype data was achieved using Bayesian inference, confirming that the set of chosen SNPs is able to distinguish among the breeds and that the breeds are genetically distinct. Individuals of Turkish Grey breed were clearly assigned to their breed of origin for all clustering alternatives, showing that this breed can be differentiated from the others on the basis of the allelic frequencies. Remarkably, in the Turkish Grey there were differences observed between the population of Enez district, where in situ conservation studies are practised, and that of Bandirma district of Balikesir, where ex situ conservation studies are practised out of the original raising area. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that molecular data could be used to reveal an unbiased view of past events and provide the basis for a rational exploitation of livestock, suggesting appropriate cross-breeding plans based on genetic distance or breeding strategies that include the population structure.

PCR-RFLP genotyping protocol for chicken Mx gene G/A polymorphism associated with the S631N mutation

The Mx (myxovirus resistance) gene codes for a protein with antiviral activity. Non-synonymous G/A polymorphism at position 2032 of chicken Mx cDNA results in a change at amino acid 631 of the Mx protein. This mutation has been shown to affect the antiviral activity of the Mx molecule, although recent studies have not confirmed this effect in response to some influenza strains. Nevertheless, the G/A polymorphism could be important for the chicken's response to other viruses. A robust PCR-RFLP protocol for genotyping chicken Mx gene polymorphism associated with the S631N mutation was developed. The F primer anneals to the last intron of the Mx gene, and the R primer anneals to the last exon of the gene, with an expected PCR product of 299 bp. PCR products were digested with Hpy8I. This enzyme cuts the sequence 5'-GTN|NAC-3', 2 bp downstream of the Mx polymorphism for the G allele, whereas the fragment containing the A allele is not cleaved. One hundred and twenty-seven chickens (commercial broilers, White Leghorn and New Hampshire) were genotyped using this protocol, and genotyping data were validated by sequencing. Full identity of results between the two genotyping methods was observed for all 127 samples, proving the reliability and robustness of this PCR-RFLP protocol.