Comparative Analysis of in Vitro Chemosensitivity to Four Proteasome Inhibitors in Human Myeloma Cell Lines

Blood ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 124 (21) ◽  
pp. 3436-3436
Author(s):  
Amit Kumar Mitra ◽  
Taylor S Harding ◽  
Brian Van Ness
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Viability ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Proteasome Inhibitors ◽  
Genetic Characteristics ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
In Vitro Chemosensitivity ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Ic50 Values

Abstract Proteasome inhibitors (PI) are effective chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), used alone or in combination with other anti-cancer agents, such as alkylating agents, topoisomerase inhibitors, corticosteroids, histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) and immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). Bortezomib (Velcade/Bz) was the first PI to be approved by US-FDA for the treatment of relapsed and refractory MM. Other second generation PIs include carfilzomib (Kyprolis/Cz), ixazomib/Iz and oprozomib (Opz). Wide inter-individual variation in response to treatment with PIs is a major limitation in achieving consistent therapeutic effect in MM. Yet few studies have compared the efficacy of all four PIs in a range of myeloma subtypes. In our current study, we performed comprehensive in vitro chemosensitivity profiling of response to four (4) PIs (Bz, Cz, Ix and Opz) in a panel of forty-five (45) human myeloma cells lines (HMCLs) generated through the immortalization of primary multiple myeloma cells (MMCs) and representing the biological and genetic heterogeneity of MM with regards to chromosomal abnormalities, oncogene mutations (e.g. Ras), tumor suppressor variations (e.g. p53), cell surface phenotypes, or growth factor response. Cells were treated with increasing concentrations of Bz, Cz, Ix and Opz as single agents and cell viability assays were performed using CellTiter-Glo luminescent cell viability assay to generate survival curves and determine the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values by calculating the nonlinear regression using sigmoidal dose-response equation (variable slope). Our results in comparing the cellular responses to PI treatment among HMCLs showed wide range of variability in IC50 values identifying some lines which were highly sensitive and some lines relatively refractory to PI treatment. Pearson product-moment correlation (PPMC) test demonstrated statistically significant (adjusted p values < 0.001) positive correlation between IC50 values of the following drug pairs: Bz vs Opz (r = 0.82); and Ix vs Opz (r = 0.88); Bz vs Ix (r = 0.65); Cz vs Opz (r = 0.69) and Cz vs Ix (r = 0.63). Subgroup analysis revealed significant correlation between carfizomib IC50 and chromosome number (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it was interesting to note that although all 4 drugs belong to the same drug class (PI), not all cell lines responded the same across all PI treatments. This demonstrates tumor heterogeneity even in response to inhibitors of the same class, and further demonstrates tumors refractory to one PI may still respond to another. We are currently examining genetic characteristics that are associated with response among the four PIs, and analysis of these characteristics will be presented. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Stew in its Own Juice: Protein Homeostasis Machinery Inhibition Reduces Cell Viability in Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 112-119 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mariana B. de Oliveira ◽  
Luiz F.G. Sanson ◽  
Angela I.P. Eugenio ◽  
Rebecca S.S. Barbosa-Dantas ◽  
Gisele W.B. Colleoni
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Death ◽  
Cell Viability ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Compensatory Mechanism ◽  
Protein Homeostasis ◽  
Protein Response ◽  
Rpmi 8226

Introduction:Multiple myeloma (MM) cells accumulate in the bone marrow and produce enormous quantities of immunoglobulins, causing endoplasmatic reticulum stress and activation of protein handling machinery, such as heat shock protein response, autophagy and unfolded protein response (UPR).Methods:We evaluated cell lines viability after treatment with bortezomib (B) in combination with HSP70 (VER-15508) and autophagy (SBI-0206965) or UPR (STF- 083010) inhibitors.Results:For RPMI-8226, after 72 hours of treatment with B+VER+STF or B+VER+SBI, we observed 15% of viable cells, but treatment with B alone was better (90% of cell death). For U266, treatment with B+VER+STF or with B+VER+SBI for 72 hours resulted in 20% of cell viability and both treatments were better than treatment with B alone (40% of cell death). After both triplet combinations, RPMI-8226 and U266 presented the overexpression of XBP-1 UPR protein, suggesting that it is acting as a compensatory mechanism, in an attempt of the cell to handle the otherwise lethal large amount of immunoglobulin overload.Conclusion:Our in vitro results provide additional evidence that combinations of protein homeostasis inhibitors might be explored as treatment options for MM.

CHIR258, a Novel Multi-Targeted Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, for the Treatment of t(4;14) Multiple Myeloma.

Blood ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 104 (11) ◽  
pp. 641-641 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzanne Trudel ◽  
Zhi Hua Li ◽  
Ellen Wei ◽  
Marion Wiesmann ◽  
Katherine Rendahl ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Mouse Model ◽  
Tyrosine Kinase ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Small Molecule ◽  
Kinase Inhibitor ◽  
Wild Type ◽  
Myeloma Cells

Abstract The t(4;14) translocation that occurs uniquely in a subset (15%) of multiple myeloma (MM) patients results in the ectopic expression of the receptor tyrosine kinase, Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor3 (FGFR3). Wild-type FGFR3 induces proliferative signals in myeloma cells and appears to be weakly transforming in a hematopoeitic mouse model. The subsequent acquisition of FGFR3 activating mutations in some MM is associated with disease progression and is strongly transforming in several experimental models. The clinical impact of t(4;14) translocations has been demonstrated in several retrospective studies each reporting a marked reduction in overall survival. We have previously shown that inhibition of activated FGFR3 causes morphologic differentiation followed by apoptosis of FGFR3 expressing MM cell lines, validating activated FGFR3 as a therapeutic target in t(4;14) MM and encouraging the clinical development of FGFR3 inhibitors for the treatment of these poor-prognosis patients. CHIR258 is a small molecule kinase inhibitor that targets Class III–V RTKs and inhibits FGFR3 with an IC50 of 5 nM in an in vitro kinase assay. Potent anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic activity has been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. We employed the IL-6 dependent cell line, B9 that has been engineered to express wild-type FGFR3 or active mutants of FGFR3 (Y373C, K650E, G384D and 807C), to screen CHIR258 for activity against FGFR3. CHIR258 differentially inhibited FGF-mediated growth of B9 expressing wild-type and mutant receptors found in MM, with an IC50 of 25 nM and 80 nM respectively as determined by MTT proliferation assay. Growth of these cells could be rescued by IL-6 demonstrating selectivity of CHIR258 for FGFR3. We then confirmed the activity of CHIR258 against FGFR3 expressing myeloma cells. CHIR258 inhibited the viability of FGFR3 expressing KMS11 (Y373C), KMS18 (G384D) and OPM-2 (K650E) cell lines with an IC50 of 100 nM, 250 nM and 80 nM, respectively. Importantly, inhibition with CHIR258 was still observed in the presence of IL-6, a potent growth factors for MM cells. U266 cells, which lack FGFR3 expression, displayed minimal growth inhibition demonstrating that at effective concentrations, CHIR258 exhibits minimal nonspecific cytotoxicity on MM cells. Further characterization of this finding demonstrated that inhibition of cell growth corresponded to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and dose-dependent inhibition of downstream ERK phosphorylation. In responsive cell lines, CHIR258 induced apoptosis via caspase 3. In vitro combination analysis of CHIR258 and dexamethasone applied simultaneously to KMS11 cells indicated a synergistic interaction. In vivo studies demonstrated that CHIR258 induced tumor regression and inhibited growth of FGFR3 tumors in a plasmacytoma xenograft mouse model. Finally, CHIR258 produced cytotoxic responses in 4/5 primary myeloma samples derived from patients harboring a t(4;14) translocation. These data indicate that the small molecule inhibitor, CHIR258 potently inhibits FGFR3 and has activity against human MM cells setting the stage for a Phase I clinical trial of this compound in t(4;14) myeloma.

Improved Therapy of Multiple Myeloma by Combining Milatuzumab (Anti-CD74 Humanized mAb) and Bortezomib: In Vitro and In Vivo Results.

Blood ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 110 (11) ◽  
pp. 1176-1176
Author(s):  
Rhona Stein ◽  
David M. Goldenberg
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Leukemic Cells ◽  
Tumor Type ◽  
Term Survival ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Highly Effective ◽  
Ic50 Values

Abstract Background: The humanized anti-CD74 monoclonal antibody, milatuzumab (hLL1, or IMMU-115; Immunomedics, Inc, Morris Plains, NJ), is in clinical evaluation for therapy of multiple myeloma (MM) after preclinical evidence of activity in this tumor type (Stein et al, Blood2004;104:3705). Here we examine the ability of milatuzumab to increase the efficacy of drugs in MM cell lines. Methods: MTT cytotoxicity assays were performed on a panel of MM cell lines, including CAG, KMS11, KMS12-PE, and MC/CAR, to examine the effects of bortezomib, doxorubicin (dox), and dexamethasone (dex) alone and combined with milatuzumab or milatuzumab + crosslinking 2nd Ab (goat anti-human IgG, GAH). In vivo studies used a CAG-SCID mouse model of disseminated disease. Results: Without drugs, crosslinked milatuzumab, but not milatuzumab alone, yielded significant anti-proliferative effects on the four MM cell lines. In combination studies, crosslinked milatuzumab produced significant reductions in the IC50 values of the anti-MM drugs. For example, in CAG, milatuzumab+GAH decreased the IC50 values 58%, 78%, and 98% for bortezomib, dox, and dex, respectively (P=0.0034, 0.0073, and 0.078, respectively). In vivo, milatuzumab at 100 μg/injection, 2x weekly for 4 weeks, starting 1 day after injection of CAG cells, more than doubled the median survival time (MST) from 42 days in untreated CAG-bearing SCID mice to 103 days. Combination therapy with milatuzumab and bortezomib or dox was compared to milatuzumab alone, with treatments initiated 5 days after injection of CAG cells. Bortezomib alone (1.0 mg/kg) increased MST from 33 to 44 days (P=0.0021 vs. untreated). Treatment with milatuzumab alone (100 μg/mouse) increased the MST to 73 days (P<0.0001 vs. untreated). When bortezomib and milatuzumab treatments were combined, the MST increased to 93 days (P=0.0441 vs. milatuzumab and P=0.0065 vs. bortezomib). Thus, the combination of milatuzumab and bortezomib increased survival significantly compared to either single treatment. Given alone, dox yielded little or no effect on survival compared with untreated animals, and there was no significant difference between milatuzumab monotherapy and milatuzumab plus doxorubicin in this model. In contrast, a milatuzumabdox immunoconjugate was found to be a highly effective therapeutic agent, with all mice achieving long-term survival. The inhibition of the NF-κB survival pathway of B-leukemic cells by milatuzumab supports its complementary effects when combined with drugs having different mechanisms of action, such as bortezomib. Conclusions: The therapeutic efficacies of bortezomib, dox, and dex are enhanced in vitro in MM cell lines when given in combination with milatuzumab. In vivo, milatuzumab alone or especially in combination with bortezomib is highly effective in MM. (Supported in part by USPHS grant P01CA103985 from the NCI, and grants from the Thomas and Agnes Carvel Foundation and the Walter and Louise Sutcliffe Foundation.)

Inhibition of HIF1A Signaling by a Novel Class of Sulfonanilides for Targeted Treatment of Multiple Myeloma.

Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 2856-2856 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dirk Hose ◽  
Anja Seckinger ◽  
Hartmut Goldschmidt ◽  
Tobias Meiβner ◽  
Blanka Rebacz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Chromosomal Aberrations ◽  
Myeloma Cell ◽  
Proliferation Index ◽  
The Novel ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
Signaling Inhibitors ◽  
Exposure Levels

Abstract Abstract 2856 Poster Board II-832 BACKGROUND. Molecular profiling of multiple myeloma allows the identification of novel targets, including HIF1A, and evaluation of their expression within large cohorts of patients. We report here the expression of HIF1A in myeloma and for the first time the preclinical testing of 4 members of a novel class of sulfonanilide HIF1A signaling inhibitors. PATIENTS AND METHODS. Expression of HIF1A was assessed using Affymetrix DNA-microarrays in 329 samples of CD138-purified myeloma cells from previously untreated patients. Chromosomal aberrations were assessed by comprehensive iFISH using a set of probes for the chromosomal regions 1q21, 6q21, 8p21, 9q34, 11q23, 11q13, 13q14.3, 14q32, 15q22, 17p13, 19q13, 22q11, as well as the translocations t(4;14)(p16.3;q32.3) and t(11;14)(q13;q32.3). Proliferation of primary myeloma cells (n=67) was determined by propidium iodine staining. The effect of the novel HIF1A signaling inhibitors ELR510490, ELR510454, ELR510444 and ELR105813 on the proliferation of 12 human myeloma cell lines and the first three on the survival of 5 primary myeloma cell-samples cultured within their microenvironment was tested, and their ability to inhibit HIF1A signaling was examined using a cell-based reporter assay. Studies were also conducted to determine in vitro stability (in plasma and microsomes), as well as single-dose PK (SDPK) parameters and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) levels after dosing in mice. RESULTS. We found (i) HIF1A to be expressed by 95.4% of CD138-purified primary myeloma cell samples from previously untreated patients. (ii) HIF1A expression shows a weak but significant correlation (r=0.3, p<0.001) with a gene expression based proliferation index. (iii) Of the chromosomal aberrations tested, myeloma cells of patients with presence of a translocation t(4,14) show a significantly higher expression of HIF1A (p<0.001) vs. patients without. Myeloma cells of hyperdiploid patients show a significantly lower expression of HIF1A (p=0.02) vs. non hyperdiploid patients. (iii) HIF1A expression does not show a correlation with event-free or overall survival. (iv) The sulfonanilides ELR510490, ELR510444, ELR510454 and ELR105813 completely inhibit proliferation of all tested myeloma cell lines at nM concentrations. (v) The compounds tested, i.e. ELR510490, ELR510444, ELR510454, are active on all primary myeloma cell-samples tested. (vi) The compounds show a pronounced effect on the HIF1A signaling pathway at EC50s of 1-25nM. (vii) Pre-clinical pharmacology data for the compounds ELR510444 and ELR510490 in mice indicate favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) profiles as well as exposure levels upon dosing at well-tolerated levels that are significantly above the in vitro EC50 in all the cell lines tested. CONCLUSION. HIF1A is expressed in almost all primary myeloma cells. The novel HIF1A signaling inhibitors tested are very active on myeloma cell lines as well as primary myeloma cells and show favorable in vivo profiles with exposure levels in mice significantly higher than the concentrations required for the inhibition of cell proliferation or apoptosis induction in vitro. This class of compounds thus represents a promising weapon in the therapeutic arsenal against multiple myeloma. Disclosures: Rebacz: ELARA Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Lewis:ELARA Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Schultes:ELARA Pharmaceuticals: Employment.

Investigational Agent MLN2238/MLN9708, a Specific, Orally Available, Small Molecule Proteasome Inhibitor, Shows Promising In Vitro Activity Against Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines

Blood ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 116 (21) ◽  
pp. 3014-3014
Author(s):  
Giada Bianchi ◽  
Vijay G. Ramakrishnan ◽  
Teresa Kimlinger ◽  
Jessica Haug ◽  
S. Vincent Rajkumar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Er Stress ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Small Molecule ◽  
Proteasome Inhibitor ◽  
Research Funding ◽  
Proteasome Inhibitors ◽  
Biologically Active ◽  
Investigational Agent

Abstract Abstract 3014 Background: Proteasome inhibitors have proven particularly effective in treatment of multiple myeloma, the second most frequent hematologic malignancy in the western world. Bortezomib, the first in class proteasome inhibitor in clinical use, was first approved in 2003 via fast FDA track, given the remarkable activity shown during phase II clinical trials. Nevertheless, more than 50% of multiple myeloma patients did not respond to single agent bortezomib when administered as second line agent. Moreover, bortezomib is only available for intravenous administration, representing a cumbersome therapy for patients, and its use is limited by significant toxicities (especially peripheral neuropathy). MLN9708 (Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.), an investigational orally available, small molecule, is a potent, specific and reversible inhibitor of the 20S proteasome. It is currently under clinical investigation for the treatment of hematologic and non-hematologic malignancies. Upon exposure to aqueous solutions or plasma, MLN9708 rapidly hydrolyzes to MLN2238, the biologically active form, and MLN2238 was used for all of the preclinical studies reported here. In vitro biochemistry studies have shown that MLN2238 has a faster dissociation rate from the proteasome compared to bortezomib, and in vivo studies of MLN2238 have shown antitumor activity in a broader range of tumor xenografts when compared to bortezomib. Given these encouraging preclinical results, we set to investigate the anti-myeloma activity of MLN2238 in vitro. Results: MLN2238 proved to have anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity against a broad range of MM cell lines with EC50 at 24 hours ranging between 10 and 50 nM, even in relatively resistant MM cell lines (OPM2, DOX6, RPMI, etc.). In MM.1S cells, induction of apoptosis was time and dose dependent and related to activation of both caspase 8 and 9. When compared to MM.1S treated for 24 hours with EC50 dose of bortezomib, treatment with EC50 dose of MLN2238 resulted in the same extent of caspases cleavage occurring at an earlier time point (8-12 hours), possibly suggesting more rapid onset and/or irreversibility of apoptosis in cells treated with MLN2238. Treatment with MLN2238 was associated with early, but persistent induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress with BiP being induced 2–4 hours after treatment with EC50 dose and gradually increasing over time. While bortezomib has been associated with early induction and late decrease in proteins involved in ER stress, MLN2238 appears to induce a persistent rise in these factors, suggesting either more sustained proteasome blockade with stabilization of proteasome substrates or de-novo induction of unfolded protein response (UPR) genes. MLN2238 also proved effective in reducing phosphorylation of ERK1-2 with no overall alteration in the total ERK level, thus accounting for the observed reduction in proliferation upon treatment. Preliminary data indicate potential for additive and synergistic combination with widely used drugs, including doxorubicin and dexamethasone. Conclusion: While further clinical data are needed to establish the effectiveness of MLN2238 in the treatment of multiple myeloma, these preliminary nonclinical data, together with the favorable biochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, including oral bioavailability, make the investigational agent MLN9708 an appealing candidate for treatment of multiple myeloma. Further in vitro data could help establish whether a difference in the apoptotic mechanisms exist between MLN2238 and other proteasome inhibitors, primarily bortezomib, and could also help inform combination treatment approaches aimed at increasing effectiveness, overcoming bortezomib resistance and decreasing toxicity. Disclosures: Kumar: Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Millennium: Research Funding; Merck: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Genzyme: Consultancy, Research Funding; Cephalon: Research Funding.

Dual Antitumoral and Bone Antiresorptive Effect Of The Pan-Pim Kinase Inhibitor, LGH447, In Multiple Myeloma

Blood ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 122 (21) ◽  
pp. 4435-4435
Author(s):  
Teresa Paíno ◽  
Antonio Garcia-Gomez ◽  
Lorena González-Méndez ◽  
Laura San-Segundo ◽  
Montserrat Martín-Sánchez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Kinase Inhibitor ◽  
Annexin V ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
Pim Kinases ◽  
Castilla Y Leon ◽  
Ic50 Values ◽  
Rpmi 8226 ◽  
Resorptive Activity

Introduction Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow (BM) and is closely associated with osteolytic lesions, in part due to an increase in the bone-resorptive activity and number of osteoclasts (OCs). The activation of survival pathways in myeloma cells could be the cause of treatment failure rendering the disease incurable. Pim kinases are a family of survival serine/threonine kinases composed of three members (Pim1, Pim2 and Pim3) that are overexpressed in MM cells and may have a role in MM pathogenesis. However, little is known about the role of Pim kinases in OCs and its involvement in myeloma bone disease. Here, we have evaluated the preclinical activity of a new pan-Pim kinase inhibitor, LGH447, on MM cells and OCs. Cell lines, primary samples, material and methods LGH447 was provided by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. The human MM cell lines MM1S, MM1R, RPMI-8226 (or RPMI-8226-luc), RPMI-LR5, MM144, NCI-H929, OPM-2, U266, U266-Dox4 and U266-LR7 were employed. PBMCs from healthy volunteers were used to generate OCs, whereas primary mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were obtained from bone marrow aspirates of MM patients. Cell viability was studied using MTT colorimetric assay or bioluminescence. Apoptosis was measured by annexin-V staining. For cell cycle analysis, propidium iodide staining was used. OC formation was assessed by enumeration of multinucleated (≥3) TRAP-positive cells and OC resorption was assessed on calcium-coated slides. Immunoblotting, quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence were used to further investigate the mechanism of action of LGH447. Results All MM cell lines expressed the three isoforms of Pim kinases with higher levels of Pim2. The dose-response curves to LGH447 after a 48 hour treatment revealed two groups of MM cell lines with regard to sensitivity to this drug: high sensitive, with IC50 values ranging from 0.2 to 3.3 µM (MM1S, MM1R, RPMI-8226, MM144, U266 and NCI-H929); and low sensitive, with IC50 values >7 µM (OPM-2, RPMI-LR5, U266-Dox4 and U266-LR7). Our results indicated that LGH447 promoted apoptosis in myeloma cells as shown by the increase in annexin-V positive cells and by the cleavage of initiator (caspases 8 and 9) and effector caspases (caspases 3 and 7) and of PARP. LGH447 also blocked the cell cycle in MM cells as demonstrated by the increase in G0-G1 and the decrease in S-G2-M phases. Importantly, LGH447 was also able to overcome the growth advantage conferred to RPMI-8226-luc cells by co-culture with MSCs or OCs. Regarding the mechanisms involved in these effects, LGH447 inhibited the mTOR pathway, demonstrated by a decreased phosphorylation of the downstream mTOR effectors, 4EBP1 and S6 in residues Thr37/46 and Ser235/236, respectively. Interestingly, LGH447 also inhibited OC formation and resorption activity. LGH447 treatment of human pre-OCs diminished the expression of key molecules involved in OC differentiation (p-Erk1/2 and NFATc1) and function [CAII (carbonic anhidrase II), CLCN7 (chloride channel 7), ATP6V1A (vacuolar-H+-ATPase catalytic subunit A1) and MMP9 (matrix metalloproteinase 9)] and also disrupted the F-actin ring necessary for OC effective resorption. Conclusion Overall, our results demonstrate that both MM cells and OCs are targets of the pan-Pim kinase inhibitor, LGH447. Therefore, the inhibition of Pim kinases could potentially provide a dual benefit in myeloma patients as a consequence of cytotoxic effects exerted on MM cells and an anti-resorptive activity on bone. This work was supported by funding from the Fundación Española de Hematología y Hemoterapia (AG-G), Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León, the RTICC-Hematology Group (RD12/0036/0058), Spanish FIS (PI12/02591) and the Junta de Castilla y León, Gerencia Regional de Salud (GRS 862/A/13). Disclosures: Off Label Use: LGH447 is a pan-Pim kinase inhibitor (Novartis Pharmaceuticals). It has been used for pre-clinical studies in multiple myeloma.

Mcl-1 Is Overexpressed in Multiple Myeloma and Correlates with Disease Severity.

Blood ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 104 (11) ◽  
pp. 1419-1419
Author(s):  
Soraya Wuilleme-Toumi ◽  
Nelly Robillard ◽  
Patricia Gomez-Bougie ◽  
Philippe Moreau ◽  
Steven Le Gouill ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Bone Marrow ◽  
Disease Severity ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Plasma Cells ◽  
Myeloma Cell ◽  
Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽  
Myeloma Cells

Abstract Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a fatal malignancy of B-cell origin characterized by the accumulation of plasma cells within the bone marrow. The expression of the pro-survival members of the Bcl-2 family has been shown to be a key process in the survival of myeloma cells. More particularly, Mcl-1 expression turned out to be critical for their survival. Indeed, knockdown of Mcl-1 by antisenses induces apoptosis in myeloma cells. Finally, Mcl-1 was found to be the only anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member which level of expression was modified by cytokine treatment of myeloma cells. For these reasons, we have evaluated the expression of Mcl-1 in vivo in normal, reactive and malignant plasma cells (PC) i.e., myeloma cells from 55 patients with MM and 20 human myeloma cell lines using flow cytometry. We show that Mcl-1 is overexpressed in MM in comparison with normal bone marrow PC. Forty-seven percent of patients with MM at diagnosis (p=.017) and 80% at relapse (p=.014 for comparison with diagnosis) overexpress Mcl-1. Of note, only myeloma cell lines but not reactive plasmocytoses have abnormal Mcl-1 expression, although both plasmocyte expansion entities share similar high proliferation rates (&gt;20%). Of interest, Bcl-2 as opposed to Mcl-1, does not discriminate malignant from normal PC. This shows that the overexpression of Mcl-1 is clearly related to malignancy rather than to proliferation. It will be important to know whether the overexpression of Mcl-1 is related to an abnormal response to cytokines like Interleukin-6 or to mutations of the promoter of the Mcl-1 gene as already described in B chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Finally, level of Mcl-1 expression is related to disease severity, the highest values being correlated with the shortest event-free survival (p=.01). In conclusion, Mcl-1 which has been shown to be essential for the survival of human myeloma cells in vitro is overexpressed in vivo in MM and correlates with disease severity. Mcl-1 represents a major therapeutical target in MM.

AT-101, a Small Molecule Inhibitor of Bcl-2 Family Proteins, Has Significant In Vitro Activity in Multiple Myeloma.

Blood ◽  
2005 ◽  
Vol 106 (11) ◽  
pp. 1581-1581
Author(s):  
Shaji Kumar ◽  
Michael Kline ◽  
Terry Kimlinger ◽  
Michael Timm ◽  
Jessica Haug ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Flow Cytometry ◽  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Myeloma Cell ◽  
Time Dependent ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
Molecule Inhibitor ◽  
Apoptotic Proteins

Abstract Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell proliferative disorder that results in considerable morbidity and mortality. As it is incurable with the current therapeutic approaches, more effective therapies based on better understanding of the pathobiology of the disease are needed. In MM, malignant plasma cells are characterized by low proliferative and apoptotic rates compared to other malignancies. Studies have shown elevated expression of anti-apoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family in MM cells, which appear to correlate with resistance to therapy with certain drugs. Hence, accelerating the apoptotic process by targeting the Bcl-2 family of proteins appears to be an attractive strategy for the treatment of MM. AT-101 is an orally bioavailable derivative of gossypol in cancer clinical trials, and is being developed by Ascenta Therapeutics. AT-101 behaves as a small molecule inhibitor of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL, binding to the BH3-binding pocket of these proteins and inhibiting their ability to suppress the activity of pro-apoptotic proteins, resulting in apoptosis. Methods and Results: AT-101 was cytotoxic to several different myeloma cell lines with a median effect observed at around 5μM concentration using an MTT cell proliferation assay. Additionally, at similar doses AT-101 induced cytotoxicity in myeloma cell lines resistant to conventional agents such as Melphalan (LR50), Doxorubicin (Dox40) and Dexamethasone (MM1.R), indicating non-overlapping mechanisms. To evaluate the ability of the drug to induce cell death in the tumor microenvironment, MM cells were co-cultured with marrow stromal cells or in the presence of VEGF or IL-6, two cytokines known to be important for myeloma growth and survival. AT-101 was cytotoxic to myeloma cells under these conditions as well with a median effect at concentrations of 5–10μM. AT-101 was able to induce apoptosis in myeloma cells in a dose- and time dependent fashion, as demonstrated by flow cytometry using Annexin/PI staining as well as cell cycle studies. AT-101 also resulted in cytotoxicity of freshly isolated primary patient myeloma cells, inducing apoptosis in a dose dependent manner. We also studied the effect of AT-101 on levels of different pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins using flow cytometry on permeabilized cells. A time-dependent increase in the level of BAX was observed following treatment with AT-101 without any associated change in levels of Bcl-xL or Bcl-2. Further studies evaluating the combination of AT101 with other active myeloma agents as well as a detailed evaluation of its mechanisms in myeloma are ongoing. Conclusion: AT-101 has significant activity in vitro in the setting of myeloma as demonstrated by its effect on myeloma cell lines and primary patient cells. More importantly, it has activity against cell lines resistant to conventional anti-myeloma agents. In addition, Phase I studies with this agent are currently ongoing in patients with solid tumors. The results from these studies form the rationale for early phase clinical trials in MM, either alone or in combination with other active therapies.

In Vitro Generation of Highly Purified Functional Invariant NKT Cells in Multiple Myeloma: A Strategy for Immunotherapy.

Blood ◽  
2006 ◽  
Vol 108 (11) ◽  
pp. 5104-5104
Author(s):  
Weihua Song ◽  
Hans J.J. van der Vliet ◽  
Yu-Tzu Tai ◽  
Ruojie Wang ◽  
Rao Prabhala ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Immune Responses ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Healthy Donor ◽  
Inkt Cell ◽  
Inkt Cells ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
Healthy Donors ◽  
Ifn Γ

Abstract Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are important immunoregulatory cells that recognize glycolipid antigens with CD1d restriction and contribute to antitumor immune responses through the production of IFN-γ and IL-2. However, in progressive multiple myeloma (MM), the iNKT cell population is decreased along with its capacity to produce IFN-γ. Thus, a novel strategy for the immunotherapy of MM entails the enhancement of iNKT cell functions. In this study, we established iNKT cell lines from MM patients via enrichment with Vα24+ and subsequently with Vβ11+ cells, followed by several rounds of stimulation with α-GalCer-pulsed DCs. These techniques resulted in highly purified iNKT cell lines (&gt;97%). To evaluate potential in vivo interaction between iNKT cells and myeloma cells, we evaluated the CD1d expression on primary myeloma cells as well as MM cell lines. Gene expression profiling revealed compared to normal plasma cells, majority of primary MM cells (11 out of 15) expressed higher levels of CD1d; in contrast, all 6 MM cell lines tested had no expression. Flow cytometric analysis further confirmed the expression of CD1d on primary MM cells and lack of its expression on 12 different MM cell lines. A CD1d-transfected MM1S cell line (MM1S-CD1d) was therefore established for the functional study. To determine whether CD1d-expressing primary MM cells have the antigen presenting capacity, iNKT cell lines from healthy donors (n=2) and MM patients (n=2) were cocultured with 5 cases of CD1d positive primary MM cells with or without α-GalCer. Monitored by the CD25 expression, we demonstrated primary MM cells presented α-GalCer and also endogenous antigen(s) to activate iNKT cells. We have further evaluated the functional profile of expanded iNKT cell lines from MM patients (n=5). Upon stimulation with α-GalCer-pulsed MM.1S-CD1d cells, iNKT cells produced high levels of Th1-type cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-2) compared to low level Th2-type cytokine production (IL-4). Our results thus demonstrate that iNKT cell lines from MM patients were functionally restored by expansion with α-GalCer-pulsed DCs in vitro. To further augment iNKT cells function, we evaluated effects of lenalidomide on iNKT cell lines, an immunomodulatory drug which has been demonstrated to enhance T cell costimulation and NK cell activity. Lenalidomide did not directly stimulate iNKT cells in the presence or absence of α-GalCel. Importantly, upon CD1d-restricted activation by α-GalCer-loaded MM1S-CD1d cells, lenalidomide significantly enhanced the Th1-type immune responses of iNKT cell lines from both healthy donors and MM patients. Compared to those of controls, a significant increase of IFN- γ (healthy donor, p&lt; 0.001, n=7; MM patients, p&lt;0.05, n=3) and IL-2 (MM patients, p&lt;0.0015, n=3) occurred. Meanwhile, lenalidomide had no significant effect on the production of IL-4 by iNKT cell lines (healthy donor, p&gt;0.05, n=7; MM patients, p&gt;0.05, n=3). Taken together, our results provide preclinical feasibility and support a rationale to evaluate efficacy of adoptive transfer of iNKT cells in MM. Moreover, it provides a clinical basis for use of lenalidomide to enhance iNKT cell mediated immunotherapy in myeloma.

Upregulation of MMP-2 & 9 by Co-Culture of Human Myeloma Cell Lines and Endothelial Cells May Be Responsible for Protection Against Cytotoxic Drugs.

Blood ◽  
2006 ◽  
Vol 108 (11) ◽  
pp. 5080-5080
Author(s):  
Shankaranarayana Paneesha ◽  
Raghu Adya ◽  
Hemali Khanji ◽  
Ed Leung ◽  
C. Vijayasekar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Myeloma ◽  
Bone Marrow ◽  
Endothelial Cells ◽  
Mrna Expression ◽  
Cell Lines ◽  
Myeloma Cell ◽  
Myeloma Cells ◽  
Human Myeloma Cell

Abstract Multiple myeloma is a clonal lymphoproliferative disorder characterised by the proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Inspite of good initial response, it is associated with universal relapse. We hypothesise this is due to sanctuary provided to myeloma cells by the endothelium. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are shown play a role in cell growth, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis and bone degradation. We show here the protection offered by endothelial cells to human myeloma cell lines in in-vitro co-culture with upregulation of MMP-2 & 9 and the role of GM6001 MMP inhibitor (Ilomastat) in overcoming this protection. Human myeloma cell lines (H929, RPMI 8226, U266 & JJN3) with or without endothelial cells (human umbilical vein endothelial cells and EaHy 926 cell line) in-vitro co-culture were treated with melphalan, dexamethasone, arsenic trioxide and Ilomastat. Cytotoxicity/proliferation were assessed by the alamarBlue™ assay (Serotec) and validated by Annexin V-FITC apoptosis detection Kit (Calbiochem) and BrDU proliferation assay (BD Pharmingen™). Gelatin Zymography was used to demonstrate activity of MMP-2 & 9 in the supernatant. MMP-2 and 9 mRNA expression was quantified by Real Time Quantitative PCR (ROCHE). Co-culture of human myeloma cell lines with endothelial cells lead to increase in the proliferation of myeloma cell lines and also protected them from the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents. MMP-2 & 9 activity was upregulated by the co-culture. MMP-2 mRNA expression in human myeloma cell lines increased following 4 hr co-culture. Treatments with Ilomastat lead to the suppression of proliferation in co-culture in a dose dependent manner, associated with a reduction of MMP-2 and 9 activity. Our study shows endothelial cells offer protection to human myeloma cell lines in the presence of cytotoxic agents. This may result in the sanctuary of myeloma cells in bone marrow leading to ultimate relapse of disease. Our study also demonstrates the upregulation of MMP-2 and 9 by co-culture and increased cytotoxicity achieved by the inhibition of MMPs. Further studies are needed to determine the exact role of MMPs in myeloma biology as MMP inhibition may be an interesting therapeutic target and help in averting relapse in multiple myeloma.

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