Search Results - EGA European Genome-Phenome Archive

Evolutionary Origins of Recurrent Pancreatic Cancer

Surgery is the only curative option for patients with Stage I/II pancreatic cancer, nonetheless most patients will recur after surgery and die of their disease. To identify novel opportunities for management of recurrent pancreatic cancer we performed whole exome or targeted sequencing of 10 resected primary cancers and their matched intrapancreatic recurrences or distant metastases. We identified that recurrent disease develops from a monophyletic or polyphyletic origin, and this distinction has potential clinical relevance. In all patients, treatment induced genetic bottlenecks led to a modified genetic landscape and subclonal heterogeneity for driver gene alterations in part due to intermetastatic seeding. In one patient what was believed to be recurrent disease was an independent (second) primary tumor. These findings strongly advocate for routine post-treatment sampling in the management of recurrent pancreatic cancer.

Study EGAS00001004097

Truncated FOS impairs osteogenic differentiation and induces prostaglandin and NFkB signalling in an in vitro cell-of-origin model for osteoid osteoma and osteoblastoma

The effect of FOS truncation on osteogenic differentiation and proliferation was investigated in an in vitro model for osteoid osteoma and osteoblastoma. In this model, truncated FOS (FOSΔ) was overexpressed in human foetal mesenchymal stem cells through a lentiviral vector. Osteogenic differentiation - assessed by measuring mineralization, ALPL expression and ALP activity - and proliferation rate were reduced in cells overexpressing FOSΔ compared to mesenchymal stem cells with an empty lentiviral vector (pLV). Transcriptome-sequencing and differential gene expression analysis revealed decreased gene expression of genes in pathways involving cell cycling and mitosis, and osteogenic differentiation, including WNT signalling, extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), in FOSΔ as compared to empty vector cells, indicating decreased proliferation and osteogenesis.

Study EGAS50000001291

Phase Ib of olaparib and capivasertib

Background: Combining poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) with phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibitors is supported by strong preclinical rationale. We sought to assess safety and a recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) for the PARPi olaparib combined with the AKT inhibitor, capivasertib, and evaluate molecular markers of response and resistance. Methods: As part of a larger phase 1b trial, we performed a safety lead in of olaparib and capivasertib followed by expansion (n=24) in endometrial, triple negative breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer. Olaparib 300mg orally twice daily and capivasertib orally twice daily on a 4 day on/3 day off schedule were evaluated. Two dose levels (DL) were planned: capivasertib 400mg (DL1); capivasertib 320mg (DL-1). Patients underwent biopsies at baseline and after 28 days.

Study EGAS00001004930

Assessment of the Toll-like receptor 3 response in hepatocytes

Toll like receptor 3 (TLR3) is an endosomal pattern recognition receptor (PRR), recognizing double stranded RNA (dsRNA) as a distinct Pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) for viral infections. We aim to understand the contribution of TLR3 to the dsRNA response in hepatocytes. The innate immune response of cells of hepatic origin (Huh7, Huh7.5, PH5CH and primary human hepatocytes (PHH)) was analyzed by transcriptome analysis (RNAseq) upon supernatant delivery or transfection of synthetic dsRNA (poly(I:C)). Expression of TLR3 and RIG-I was reconstituted by lentiviral transduction in Huh7 and Huh7.5 cells. Huh7 and Huh7.5 cells, devoid of functional TLR3 expression, did not respond to supernatant delivery of poly(I:C), in contrast to PH5CH and PHH, confirming a high selectivity of this method towards activating TLR3 in all hepatocyte models.

Study EGAS00001005147

Tumor-associated preferred end coordinates and somatic variants as signatures of circulating tumor DNA

Cell-free DNA fragmentation is a nonrandom process. We showed that cell-free DNA fragments with ends at certain genomic coordinates had higher likelihoods of being derived from hepatocellular carcinoma. Other coordinates were associated with cell-free DNA molecules originating from the liver. Quantitative assessment of cell-free DNA molecules bearing these respective groups of end signatures correlated with the amounts of tumor-derived or liver-derived DNA in plasma. There were millions of tumor-associated plasma DNA end coordinates across the genome. Due to their high prevalence, they were more readily detectable than somatic mutations as a cancer signature in plasma. Hence, detection of tumor-associated plasma DNA ends may offer a cost-effective means of capturing evidence for the presence of cancer through liquid biopsy assessment.

Study EGAS00001003160

IMCISION RNAseq

RNA sequencing could be performed on all 32 baseline and 30 on-treatment primary tumor biopsies. Based on gene-set enrichment analysis, the epithelial to mesenchymal transition signature was enriched in baseline tumors of patients without MPR, though its expression was insufficient to predict ICB response. Baseline and on-treatment IFNγ and T-cell signature expression (Z-score) were not significantly higher in patients with an MPR. Baseline primary tumor hypoxia-associated gene expression in IMCISION did not predict ICB response. However, on-treatment biopsies of MPR tumor samples showed significantly lower hypoxia gene expression when compared to non-MPR samples. Moreover, in a paired analysis of baseline and corresponding on-treatment samples, a significant decrease of hypoxia-related gene expression was observed in MPR biopsies, while this decrease was absent in non-MPR biopsies.

Study EGAS00001005454

Germline Aberrations of PAX5 Cause Susceptibility to pre-B cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

A novel heterozygous germline variant, c.547G>A (p.Gly183Ser), in the paired box protein encoding gene, PAX5, was found to segregate with disease in two unrelated kindreds with autosomal dominant pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Leukemic cells from both families exhibited 9p deletion, with loss-of-heterozygosity and retention of the mutant PAX5 allele at 9p13 . Two additional sporadic ALL cases with 9p loss demonstrated PAX5 Gly183 substitution in the leukemic cells. Functional analysis of the PAX5 germline variants demonstrated reduced transcriptional activity, as well as decreased interaction with Groucho-4. These data extend the role of PAX5 alterations in the pathogenesis of pre-B ALL, and implicate PAX5 in a novel syndrome of germline susceptibility to pre-B cell neoplasia.

Study EGAS00001000447

UCSF Pediatric Bithalamic Glioma Genome Project

Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors of childhood, and the genetic drivers and optimal therapeutic strategies for many of the different subtypes remain unknown. We performed targeted next-generation sequencing of approximately 500 cancer-associated genes on a cohort of 13 pediatric bithalamic diffuse gliomas, a lethal brain tumor of childhood for which the genetic basis is largely unknown. We identified that bithalamic diffuse gliomas harbor frequent mutations in the EGFR oncogene in the absence of accompanying gene amplification and only rare histone H3 mutation. These EGFR mutations were either small in-frame insertions within exon 20 (intracellular tyrosine kinase domain) or missense mutations within exon 7 (extracellular ligand-binding domain). Accompanying alterations included frequent TP53 mutation, CDK6 amplification or CDKN2C mutation, and BCOR and BCORL1 mutation or deletion.

Study EGAS00001004033

Size-tagged preferred ends in maternal plasma DNAshed light on the production mechanism and showutility in noninvasive prenatal testing

Cell-free DNA molecules in the plasma of pregnant women exhibit nonrandom fragmentation with preferred end sites. We studied if such preferred end sites might bear any re- lationship with fragment lengths of plasma DNA. Short and long plasma DNA molecules were associated with different preferred DNA end sites. Analysis of size-tagged preferred ends could be used for measuring fetal DNA fraction and for facilitating fetal trisomy 21 detection. Fetal preferred end sites were generally located in the nucleosome cores, while the maternal ones were located in the linker regions. This con- ceptual framework provides an explanation of the relative shortness of fetal DNA in maternal plasma and brings us closer to understanding the biological mechanisms that influence plasma DNA fragmentation.

Study EGAS00001002831

Whole-genome sequencing of bladder cancers of various stages and grades to search for driver mutations, chromosome-scale somatic changes, mutation signatures and clonal structures.

This discovery set of tumours cancers with whole-genome sequence data comprised 14 bladder cancers, paired with peripheral blood, that had been collected from unrelated individuals presenting to the Urology Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield between June 2008 and September 2011. Four cancers were of low-grade papillary morphology (pTaG1-2), five were high grade invading the lamina propria (pT1G3, with two subsequently becoming muscle-invasive); and five were muscle-invasive (pT2-pT3). All tumours were sampled at transurethral resection or cystectomy and had not previously received any other therapy. The presence of a majority of cancer cells in the tumour specimens was confirmed by routine histological assessment. Genomic DNA was extracted from each tumour and paired blood sample using standard methods.

Study EGAS00001000738

UAMS Smoldering Myeloma Timeline Cohort

To better understand the pattern of genetic changes over time, we performed whole exome sequencing of sequential bone marrow samples from 9 patients taken overtime including some paired SMM/newly diagnosed MM/Relapse MM samples. Samples from 9 patients (9 controls and 53 tumors) underwent whole exome sequencing with an additional capture for the IGH, IHK, IGL, and MYC loci. DNA was obtained from either CD138+ cells from the bone marrow of smoldering myeloma patients through time (tumor) or from stem cell harvests or peripheral blood cells from the same patient (control). 100 ng of DNA was fragmented, end-repaired, and adapters ligated using NimbleGen's MedExome. After PCR amplification hybridized libraries underwent further amplification before being sequenced on a NextSeq500 (Illumina) using 75 bp paired end reads.

Study EGAS00001003687

Cross-species genomics identifies TAF12, NFYC and RAD54L as novel choroid plexus carcinoma oncogenes

Choroid plexus carcinomas (CPC) are poorly understood and frequently lethal brain tumors with minimal treatment options. Using a new mouse model of the disease and a large cohort of human CPCs, we performed a cross-species, genome-wide search for novel oncogenes within syntenic regions of chromosome gain. TAF12, NFYC and RAD54L, co-located on human chromosome 1p32-35.3 and mouse chromosome 4qD1-D3, were identified as oncogenes that are gained in tumors in both species and required to initiate and progress the disease in mice. TAF12 and NFYC are transcription factors that regulate the epigenome, while RAD54L plays a central role in DNA repair. Our data identify a group of concurrently gained, novel oncogenes that cooperate in the formation of CPC and unmask potential new avenues for therapy.

Study EGAS00001000961

Genetic landscape of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors

Neurofibromatosis 1 is a hereditary syndrome characterized by the development of numerous benign neurofibromas, a small subset of which progress to malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). To better understand the genetic basis for MPNSTs, we performed whole genome sequencing on four MPNSTs from patients with neurofibromatosis 1 and found that each of them had a somatic, inactivating mutation of SUZ12, a chromatin modifying gene adjacent to the NF1 gene responsible for the benign neurofibromas in these patients. We then performed targeted sequencing on an additional 46 MPNSTs and found that 12 had somatic mutations in SUZ12. Fifteen of the 17 (88%) mutations in SUZ12 were predicted to inactivate protein function, implicating it as a tumor suppressor gene possibly responsible for the progression from neurofibromas to MPNTs.

Study EGAS00001000974

Non-Mendalian inheritance of extrachromosal DNA elements can drive disease evolution in glioblastoma

Genomic heterogeneity of glioblastoma (GBM) is suspected to contribute to the poor response to therapy of this disease. We compared molecular characteristics between primary GBM, neurospheres and orthotopic xenograft models derived from the same parental tumor. Driver alterations were in majority propagated from tumor to model systems. Extrachromosomal amplifications of MET, a proto-oncogene coding for a receptor tyrosine kinase, were detected in three primary GBM, largely discarded in neurospheres cultures, but resurfaced in xenografts. The clonal dynamics inferred by somatic single nucleotide variants (sSNVs) in MET-amplified samples diverged from the pattern delineated by the MET amplification event suggesting that the MET event and sSNVs were inherited in different manners. Our analysis shows that extrachromosomal elements are able to drive tumor progression.

Study EGAS00001001878

Exome sequence data for germline, primary tumor, and relapse tumor of a transformed non-Hodgkins lymphoma patient with unexpected long-time remission

The patient was diagnosed with a transformed high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma stage III, and treated with conventional R-CHOP (Rituximab (R), Cyclophosphamide (C), Doxorubicin (H), Vincristine (O) and Prednisone (P)). Unfortunately, she suffered from severe toxicity but recovered during the following six months remission until a biopsy verified relapse. The patient refused second line combination chemotherapy, but accepted a 3 months palliation with R and Chlorambucil. Unexpectedly, she obtained continuous complete remission and is at present >9 years after primary diagnosis.Molecular studies and data evaluation by principal component analysis, mutation screening, and copy number variations of the primary and relapsed tumor, identified patterns of branched lymphoma evolution, most likely diverging from an unknown in situ follicular lymphoma.

Study EGAS00001001973

Pediatric Low-Grade Glioma RNA and Targeted Sequencing

Pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGG) are frequently driven by genetic alterations in the RAS/MAPK pathway yet show unexplained variability in their clinical outcome. To address this, we characterized a cohort of >1,000 clinically annotated pLGG. 84% of cases harbored a driver alteration, while those without an identified alteration also often exhibited up-regulation of the RAS/MAPK pathway. pLGG could be broadly classified based on their alteration type. Rearrangement-driven tumors were diagnosed at a younger age, enriched for WHO grade I histology, infrequently progressed, and rarely resulted in death as compared to SNV-driven tumors. Further sub-classification of clinical-molecular correlates stratified pLGG into risk categories. These data highlight the biological and clinical differences between pLGG subtypes and opens avenues for future treatment refinement.

Study EGAS00001004242

Single cell transcriptomics of human adrenal gland reveal chromosomal alterations in adrenocortical cells

Adrenocortical cells get replenished throughout our lifetime and as such they are a cellular population of high interest in relation to adrenocortical tumours. Single cell transcriptomics of human adrenal gland were performed to identify rare subpopulations of cells, dynamics of cellular turnover and clone expansions in the adrenal cortex. The adrenal gland of this particular individual is characterized by the presence of mutant clone charecterized by aneuploidy in chromosomes 8, 9, 13 and 22, occupying the zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata. Differential expression analysis of the mutant cells revealed upregulation of MC2R (adrenocorticotropic hormone receptor), CYP21A2, HSD3B2 genes (enzymes involved in cortisol production). Overall, this donor sample is an example of clonal tissue expansions carrying chromosomal rearrangements that likely impact organ morphology and function but are seemingly benign.

Study EGAS00001007488

Recurrent Somatic Mutations of PTPN1 in Primary Mediastinal B cell lymphoma and Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and primary mediastinal B cell lymphoma (PMBCL) are related lymphomas sharing pathological, molecular and clinical characteristics. Here, we discovered recurrent somatic coding sequence mutations of the tyrosine phosphatase gene PTPN1 in the tumor genomes and transcriptomes of these B cell lymphomas (6 of 30 or in 20% of HL cases and 13 of 49 or in 27% of PMBCL cases), consisting of nonsense, missense and frameshift mutations. We demonstrate that PTPN1 mutations lead to reduced phosphatase activity and increased phosphorylation of JAK-STAT pathway members. Moreover, silencing of PTPN1 by RNA interference in HL cell line KM-H2 resulted in hyperphosphorylation and overexpression of downstream oncogenic targets. Our data establish PTPN1 mutations as novel drivers in B cell lymphomagenesis.

Study EGAS00001000554

Whole exome sequencing in RVOT patients

In a patient with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) tachycardia we identified a heterozygous point mutation in the selectivity filter of the stretch-activated K2P potassium channel TREK-1 (KCNK2 or K2P2.1). This mutation introduces abnormal sodium permeability to TREK-1 In addition, mutant channels exhibit a hypersensitivity to stretch-activation, suggesting that the selectivity filter is directly involved in stretch-induced activation and desensitization. Increased sodium permeability and stretch-sensitivity of mutant TREK-1 channels may trigger arrhythmias in areas of the heart with high physical strain such as the RVOT. We present a pharmacological strategy to rescue the selectivity defect of the TREK-1 pore. Our findings provide important insights for future studies of K2P channel stretch-activation and the role of TREK-1 in mechano-electrical feedback in the heart.

Study EGAS00001002319

Low frequency and rare coding variation contributes to multiple sclerosis risk

Multiple sclerosis is a common, complex neurological disease, where almost 20% of risk heritability can be attributed to common genetic variants, including >230 identified by genome-wide association studies. Multiple strands of evidence suggest that the majority of the remaining heritability is also due to the additive effects of individual variants, rather than epistatic interactions between these variants, or mutations exclusive to individual families. Here, we show in 68,379 cases and controls that as much as 5% of this heritability is explained by low-frequency variation in gene coding sequence. We identify four novel genes driving MS risk independently of common variant signals, which highlight a key role for regulatory T cell homeostasis and regulation, IFNγ biology and NFκB signaling in MS pathogenesis.

Study EGAS00001003195

High-resolution structural genomics reveals new therapeutic vulnerabilities in glioblastoma

We investigated the role of 3D genome architecture in instructing functional properties of glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) by generating the highest-resolution 3D genome maps to-date for this cancer. Integration of DNA contact maps with chromatin and transcriptional profiles identified specific mechanisms of gene regulation, including individual physical interactions between regulatory regions and their target genes. Residing in structurally conserved regions in GSCs was CD276, a gene known to play a role in immuno-modulation. We show that, unexpectedly, CD276 is part of a stemness network in GSCs and can be targeted with an antibody-drug conjugate to curb self-renewal, a key stemness property. Our results demonstrate that integrated structural genomics datasets can be employed to rationally identify therapeutic vulnerabilities in self-renewing cells.

Study EGAS00001003493

A genetic compendium of human brains from the UK Medical Research Council brain tissue resource

Common neurodegenerative diseases have a complex genetic architecture. Highly penetrant diseases alleles are found in a significant minority of cases, and common risk alleles are present in a large proportion. Given the central role of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of these disorders, it is critical that mechanistic studies in human subjects and tissue samples are interpreted in an genetically enlightened context. To address this we performed exome sequencing on 1461 human brains accessible through the Medical Research Council (UK) brain banks network. Our findings confirm the complex genetic landscape of neurodegenerative disease. Clinical, pathological and genetic data for the 1461 brains with corresponding exome sequencing data are available within this dataset, enabling the genetic stratification and selection of post-mortem tissue samples for researchers.

Study EGAS00001001599

Most HCCs in Taiwan show the mutational signature of aristolochic acid

Plants in the genus Aristolochia contain the mutagen aristolochic acid (AA) and have been widely used in traditional medicines and for weight loss. AA binds covalently to genomic DNA and induces a highly distinctive mutational signature. While AA involvement in urinary-tract cancers in Taiwan is known, the possible role of AA in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in Taiwan has not been examined. Here, we whole-exome sequenced 98 unselected HCCs from Taiwan and analyzed the mutational signatures for evidence of AA mutagenesis. Remarkably, more than 78% of HCCs showed strong evidence of AA mutagenesis, often associated with high mutation burdens. Non-synonymous mutations in genes known to be HCC driver genes were detected. Importantly, we elucidated the potential of immunotherapy in this cohort of liver cancer patients.

Study EGAS00001002301

ICGC Oesophageal adenocarcinoma - tumour samples

The oesophageal project will focus on adenocarcinoma which is increasing in incidence in the UK and other developed countries and has a very poor outcome. The primary aims of this project are to deeply sequence tumour and normal genomic DNA (including the precursor condition Barrett’s oesophagus when material is available) to provide a comprehensive catalogue of somatic mutations. This will be achieved through a UK-wide network of hospitals involved in a research collaboration called the OCCAMS consortium. The goal of this project is to use high quality clinical material with accurately annotated clinic-pathological, treatment and outcome data.

Study EGAS00001000725

Two lung cancer cell lines with EGFR mutations, PC-9 and KHM-3S, were either treated with Tarceva for 24 hours or left untreated. The gene expression profiles were examined by RNAseq, and the genome wide binding profiles of total STAT3 and pSTAT3 were characterized by ChIPseq.

Lung cancers harboring activating EGFR mutants show dramatic responses to EGFR TKIs, such as Tarceva. However, nearly all patients show relapse within 1 year after initial treatment. To investigate the early signaling switches that are involved in the formation of drug resistance, and the role of STAT3 in the early signaling switches involved in the formation of drug resistance, we have treated two lung cancer cell lines with EGFR mutations, PC-9 and KMH-3S, with Tarceva for 24hours. The RNA samples with and without treatment were collected in triplicate for RNAseq experiment.The total STAT3 and pSTAT3 chromatinIP were done on samples with and without treatment for ChIPseq.

Study EGAS00001000793

Spatio-temporal evolution of the primary glioblastoma genome

Tumor recurrence following treatment is the major cause of mortality for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. Thus, insights on the evolutionary process at recurrence are critical for improved patient care. Here, we describe our genomic analyses of 38 GBM patients with the initial and recurrent tumor specimens for each individual. A substantial divergence in the landscape of driver alterations was associated with distant appearance of a recurrent tumor from the initial tumor, suggesting that the genomic profile of the initial tumor can mislead targeted therapies for the distally recurred tumor. In addition, in contrast to IDH1-mutated gliomas, IDH1-wild-type primary GBMs rarely developed hypermutation following temozolomide (TMZ) treatment, indicating low risk of TMZ-induced hypermutation for these patients under the standard regimen.

Study EGAS00001001041

An allele-resolved nanopore-guided tour of the human placental methylome

The placenta is a temporary organ present during pregnancy that is responsible for coordinating all aspects of pregnancy between the mother and fetus. It has a distinct epigenetic, transcriptomic, and mutational landscape with low levels of methylation, high numbers of transcribed loci, and a high mutational burden relative to somatic tissues. We present this landscape through the application of nanopore sequencing technology to provide a more comprehensive picture of female placental genomics and methylomics along with integrated haplotype-resolved transcriptomic analyses across eight trios. Whole genome sequencing of trios allows robust phasing, permitting comprehensive genome-wide investigation of parent-of-origin methylation and transcription. This enhanced view facilitates identifications of many new differentially methylated regions (DMRs), both conserved and differing between individuals, as well as novel imprinted genes.

Study EGAS50000001301

Multisample genomic analysis of solid childhood cancers using high resolution SNP-arrays, Whole Exome Sequencing and Targeted Deep Sequencing.

We mapped the prevalence of genetically distinct clones over 248 regions in 54 childhood cancers. This revealed that primary tumors can simultaneously follow up to four evolutionary patterns in different anatomic areas. The most common pattern consists of a fluctuating presence over anatomic space of subclones with very few mutations. The second most common is a surprisingly stable coexistence, over vast areas, of clones with different changes in chromosome numbers. This is contrasted by a third, less frequent, pattern where a novel clone harboring driver mutations or structural chromosome rearrangements completely replaces its progenitor. The fourth and rarest pattern is the local emergence of a myriad of clones with TP53 inactivation. Strikingly, death from disease was limited to tumors exhibiting the two latter, most dynamic patterns.

Study EGAS00001002662

DEPArray-based sorting of pure carcinoma and stromal populations from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues followed by targeted sequencing

To overcome the challenges of low DNA yields, degraded DNA by formalin fixation and diluted signal of genomic aberrations by non-carcinoma components in the heterogeneous FFPE samples, we isolated pure carcinoma and stromal cells using the DEPArray™ NxT system, a microchip-based digital sorter that allows isolation of pure, homogeneous subpopulations of cells from FFPE samples. We isolated pure carcinoma and stromal cell populations from 12 FFPE tissues, including tissues from 9 primary and metastatic breast cancer and 3 primary ovarian high-grade serous carcinomas. This was followed by a targeted panel for somatic mutation and sCNA analysis (7 samples), subject to cell availability. Mutation analysis was performed successfully in 6/7 samples and somatic mutations were detected in all of them.

Study EGAS50000001327

ICGC PedBrain: Deep-sequencing of childhood brain tumors.

Brain tumors constitute the childhood tumors with the highest mortality rates and survival is often associated with severe long-term sequelae due to intensive multimodal treatment regimens. Thus, the PedBrainTumor network aims at the identification of robust biomarkers for clinical management and novel molecular targets for therapeutic interventions. Using massively parallel whole-genome sequencing, and transcriptome and methylome sequencing for subsets of cases, we aim to decipher the molecular causes of medulloblastoma as well as low-grade astrocytoma, and to identify markers to stratify patients for specialized treatment. As the PedBrain network is affiliated with clinical trials in medulloblastoma and pilocytic astrocytoma, validation cohorts for the translation of key findings into clinical settings are readily available.

Study EGAS00001000215

Head and neck tumor organoid biobank for modelling individual responses to radiation therapy according to the TP53/ HPV status

Head and neck cancers (HNC) represent an extremely heterogeneous group of diseases with a poorly predictable therapy outcome. Here, we have established a comprehensive molecularly and functionally characterized head and neck organoid biobank recapitulating the clinically relevant subtypes of TP53 mutant and human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV 16) infection-driven HNC. Organoids were exposed to radiotherapy and genetically engineered normal and tumor organoids were used for testing the direct functional consequences of TP53-loss and HPV infection. We identified subtype-associated transcriptomic signatures and pathological features, including sensitivity to TP53 stabilization by the MDM2 inhibitor Nutlin-3. TP53 loss-of-function alone was insufficient to promote radiation resistance, whereas HPV 16 oncogenes E6/E7 mediated radiosensitivity via induction of cell cycle arrest.

Study EGAS50000001219

Recording physiological history of cells with chemical labeling.

Recordings of the physiological history of cells provide insights into biological processes, yet obtaining such recordings is a challenge. To address this, we introduce a method to record transient cellular events for later analysis. We designed proteins that become labeled in the presence of both a specific cellular activity and a fluorescent substrate. The recording period is set by the presence of the substrate, whereas the cellular activity controls the degree of the labeling. The use of distinguishable substrates enabled the recording of successive periods of activity. We recorded protein-protein interactions, G-protein-coupled receptor activation and elevations in intracellular calcium. Recordings of elevated calcium levels allowed selections of cells from heterogenous populations for transcriptomic analysis and tracking of neuronal activities in flies and zebrafish.

Study EGAS50000000056

RNA-seq of Glioblastoma stem cells

Chromatin accessibility discriminates stem from mature cell populations, enabling the identification of primitive stem-like cells in primary tumors, such as Glioblastoma (GBM) where self-renewing cells driving cancer progression and recurrence are prime targets for therapeutic intervention. We show, using single-cell chromatin accessibility, that primary GBMs harbor a heterogeneous self-renewing population whose diversity is captured in patient-derived glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). In depth characterization of chromatin accessibility in GSCs identifies three GSC states: Reactive, Constructive, and Invasive, each governed by uniquely essential transcription factors and present within GBMs in varying proportions. Orthotopic xenografts reveal that GSC states associate with survival, and identify an invasive GSC signature predictive of low patient survival. Our chromatin-driven characterization of GSC states improves prognostic precision and identifies dependencies to guide combination therapies.

Study EGAS00001003070

Circulating cell-free DNA analysis in Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for ~250,000 deaths worldwide each year. Acquisition of adequate tumour biopsies is challenging and liquid biopsies present the best option for patient stratification and response monitoring. We present genome-wide and targeted plasma DNA sequencing data that identifies tumour related changes in 91% of limited (LS-SCLC) and 100% of extensive stage (ES-SCLC) patients. Parallel analysis of circulating tumour cells (CTCs, by CellSearch) based on ≥ 1 CTC/7.5ml blood increased tumour detection frequencies to 98% patients (95% for LS-SCLC) where CTC count and plasma DNA readouts correlated with disease stage and overall survival (OS). Targeted plasma DNA sequencing identified potential therapeutic targets in >50% of patients. This approach will support trials of targeted therapies where improved patients outcomes are urgently required.

Study EGAS00001003110

Clonal heterogeneity leads to secondary resistance in a melanoma patient after adoptive cell therapy with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) is effective in melanoma patients, although long-term responses seem restricted to patients with complete remissions. Many patients develop secondary resistance to TIL-ACT but involved mechanisms are unclear. Here, we describe a case of secondary resistance to TIL-ACT likely due to intratumoral heterogeneity and selection of a resistant tumor cell clone via transferred T cells. This is the first case of clonal selection of a pre-existing non-dominant tumor cell clone and demonstrates a new mechanism involved in secondary resistance to TIL-ACT and could potentially change current clinical practice, because it advocates for T cell collection from different tumor sites and analysis of tumor heterogeneity before the treatment with TIL-ACT.

Study EGAS50000000279

A single-cell multi-omic atlas of nodal B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas

Nodal B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHL) are a clinically diverse set of cancers thought to originate from distinct stages of B-cell maturation. To characterize intratumor heterogeneity across B-NHL entities, we performed CITE-Seq (cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes) on 51 lymph node samples including mantle cell lymphoma (MCL, n = 8), follicular lymphoma (FL, n = 12), germinal center (GCB, n = 5) or activated B-cell (non-GCB/ABC, n = 7) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and marginal zone lymphoma (MZL, n = 11) tumors, in addition to non-malignant reactive lymph nodes (rLN, n = 8). We also performed 5 prime scRNA-seq with immune receptor profiling for 11 of these samples (2 rLN, 2 MCL, 3 FL, 2 DLBCL, and 2 MZL).

Study EGAS50000000342

Exome_sequencing_of_thyroid_disease_in_Val_Borbera

The Val Borbera is a region characterized by low iodine and high prevalence of thyroid disorders, the commonest endocrine disorders in the general population. About 30% of the participants of the Val Borbera Project were affected by such disorders and were characterized by several parameters, TSH level, anti TPO antibodies, echography, family origin. Individuals with extreme phenotypes were identified and could be clustered based on family origin and genotype. We propose to exome sequence 6 of them, affected with true goiter, at high dept (40-60x) to obtain information on exonic rare variants. Due to the family structure and to the availability of whole genome sequence information on 110 individuals from the isolated population we expect to be able to identify putative causative variants for thyroid disorders that may be studied in the remaining affected individuals.

Study EGAS00001000344

Genomic and clinical characterization of a familial GIST kindred intolerant to imatinib

Familial gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are rare. We present a kindred with multiple family members affected with multifocal GIST who underwent whole genome sequencing of the germline and tumor. Affected individuals with GIST harbored a germline variant found within exon 13 of the KIT gene, (c.1965T>G; p.Asn655Lys, p.N655K) and a variant in the MSR1 gene (c.877C>T; p.Arg293*, pR293X). Multifocal GISTs in the proband and her mother were treated with preoperative imatinib, and resulted in severe intolerance. The clinical features of multifocal GIST, cutaneous mastocytosis, allergies and gut motility disorders seen in the affected individuals may represent manifestations of the multifunctional roles of KIT in interstitial cells of Cajal or mast cells and/or may be suggestive of additional molecular pathways which can contribute to tumorigenesis.

Study EGAS50000000372

10x genomics single cell RNA-seq and ATAC-seq from 10 pre-menopausal patients fimbriae and ampullary part of the fallopian tube

The fallopian tube, connecting the uterus with the ovary, is a dynamic organ that undergoes cyclical changes and is the site of several diseases, including serous cancer. Here, we use single-cell technologies to construct a comprehensive cell map of healthy pre-menopausal fallopian tubes, capturing the impact of the menstrual cycle and menopause on different fallopian tube cells at the molecular level. The comparative analysis between pre- and post-menopausal fallopian tubes reveals substantial shifts in cellular abundance and gene expression patterns, highlighting the physiological changes associated with menopause. Further investigations into menstrual cycle phases illuminate distinct molecular states in secretory epithelial cells caused by hormonal fluctuations. The markers we identified characterizing secretory epithelial cells provide a valuable tool for classifying ovarian cancer subtypes.

Study EGAS50000000628

WGS of liver cancer in the Japanese population

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cancer-related cause of death and the seventh most common form of cancer worldwide, with an estimate of more than 700,000 new cases each year. The most established risk factors of HCC are chronic HBV and HCV infection. HBV infection is responsible for over 50% of the worldwide attributable risk of HCC, especially in East Asia and Africa, while in Japan and several Western countries HCV infection is the most common risk factor for HCC. To gain insights into the molecular alterations of virus-associated HCC, we performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) of 321 HCC tumors from 159 patients. This work was performed as a part of the ICGC (International Cancer Genome Consortium) project.

Study EGAS00001000678

Single cell multi-omics analysis of chromothriptic medulloblastoma highlights genomic and transcriptomic consequences of genome instability

Chromothripsis is a form of genome instability, whereby a presumably single catastrophic event generates extensive genomic rearrangements of one or few chromosome(s). However, little is known about the heterogeneity of chromothripsis across different clones from the same tumor, as well as changes in response to treatment. We analyzed single-cell genomic and transcriptomic alterations linked with chromothripsis in human p53-deficient medulloblastoma (n=7). We reconstructed the order of somatic events, identified early alterations likely linked to chromothripsis and depicted the contribution of chromothripsis to malignancy. We characterized subclonal variation of chromothripsis and its effects on double-minute chromosomes, cancer drivers and putatively druggable targets. Furthermore, we highlighted the causative role and the fitness consequences of specific rearrangements in neural progenitors.

Study EGAS00001005410

Clinical relevance of TCGA subtypes for gastric cancer patients

There is a clinical need for the availability of molecular biomarkers in the tratment of gastric cancer (GC), since survival rates remain poor with a 5-year survival rate of only ~`40% for patients with resectable disease. These markers will elad to a more tailored approach in the treatment of GC, which enhances efficacy and reduces toxicity. Recently, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) classified GC patients into four molecular subgroups: Epstein Barr Virus positive (EBV+), genomically stable (GS), microsatellite instable (MSI), and chromosomal instable (CIN). For this purpose we aim to collect tumor tissue blocks from patients who participated in the Dutch D1/D2 or the CRITICS trial and who gave informed consent for translational studies. Associations between TCGA subtypes and outcomes to these different therapeutic options will be analyzed.

Study EGAS50000000779

Mutations in the SIX1/2 pathway and the DROSHA/DGCR8 miRNA microprocessor complex underlie high-risk blastemal type Wilms tumors

Blastemal histology in chemotherapy-treated pediatric Wilms tumors (nephroblastoma) is associated with adverse prognosis. In order to find novel therapeutic leads for this subgroup of patients, we analyzed 58 such Wilms tumors by exome and transcriptome analysis and validated our findings in larger independent cohorts. Recurrent mutations identified either somatically or in the germline included a hotspot mutation (Q177R) in the homeodomain of SIX1 and SIX2 in tumors with high proliferative potential, mutations in microprocessor genes like DROSHA, DGCR8, DICER1 and DIS3L2, and alterations in IGF2, MYCN, and TP53, the latter being strongly associated with dismal outcome. DROSHA and DGCR8 mutations had a strong effect on miRNA profiles in tumors, which we confirmed in cell lines transfected with mutant DROSHA.

Study EGAS00001000906

Genome_Diversity_in_Africa_Project___ancient_samples___standard_libraries

Given the central importance of Africa to studies of human origins, genetic diversity and disease susceptibility, large-scale and representative characterisation of genetic diversity in Africa is needed. Analyses of ancient DNA from Africa would complement sequencing of modern African populations and provide unique opportunities to transform our understanding of the pre-history of the region. This approach would greatly refine our understanding of population structure and gene flow in Africa and globally, including genetic signatures of ancient admixture. This low coverage sequencing experiment will allow us to test and refine our pipeline for ancient DNA sequencing.This data is part of a pre-publication release. For information on the proper use of pre-publication data shared by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute (including details of any publication moratoria), please see http://www.sanger.ac.uk/datasharing/

Study EGAS00001001182

Comprehensive Transcriptional Analysis of Early Stage Urothelial Carcinoma using whole transcriptome sequencing

The expression profile and sequence variants of 476 early stage urothelial carcinoma were studied using whole transcriptome sequencing. RNA-Seq libraries were prepared by Ribo-Zero treatment of total-RNA followed by library preparation using ScriptSeq (both Epicentre/Illumina). RNA-Seq libraries were paired-end sequenced (2x 101 bp) on Illumina HiSeq 2000 and the resulting fastq files were processed using tools from the Genome Analysis Toolkit (GATK and from the Tuxedo suite. Access to the sequence data (mapped and un-mapped bam and vcf files), containing person identifying information, needs signature on a controlled access form, and can be accessed at The European Genome-phenome Archive (EGA) following request. An expression matrice of FPKM values are available without restriction at ArrayExpress (E-MTAB-4321).

Study EGAS00001001236

The transcription factor GABP selectively binds and activates the mutant TERT promoter in cancer

Reactivation of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) expression enables cells to overcome replicative senescence and escape apoptosis, fundamental steps in the initiation of human cancer. Multiple cancer types, including up to 83% of glioblastomas (GBM), harbor highly recurrent TERT promoter mutations of unknown function but specific to two nucleotide positions. We identify the functional consequence of these mutations in GBM to be recruitment of the multimeric GABP transcription factor specifically to the mutant promoter. Allelic recruitment of GABP is consistently observed across four cancer types, highlighting a shared mechanism underlying TERT reactivation. Tandem flanking native ETS motifs critically cooperate with these mutations to activate TERT, likely by facilitating GABP heterotetramer binding. GABP thus directly links TERT promoter mutations to aberrant expression in multiple cancers.

Study EGAS00001001242

Sequencing of Infant high grade gliomas

Infant high grade gliomas appear distinct from their counterparts in older children, indicating that grading may not accurately reflect the biology of these tumours. We have collected 228 cases under 4 years of age, and carried out histological review, methylation profiling (217), custom panel (15) and genome (20)/exome (12) sequencing. After excluding cases representing other established entities or subgroups, we identified 120 cases to be part of an intrinsic spectrum of disease in the infant population. These included those with targetable MAP-kinase alterations, and a large proportion of remaining cases to harbour gene fusions targeting ALK, NTRK1/2/3, ROS1 and MET as their driving alterations, with evidence of efficacy of targeted agents in the clinic. Infant gliomas require a change in diagnostic practise and management.

Study EGAS00001003532

A collection of 142 samples used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of small-scale variation detection in exome-capture data with a particular focus on indel detection.

The dataset includes exome sequencing data and 704 Sanger sequencing validations for the 142 samples. The 704 Sanger sequencing validations are comprised of 416 variants and 288 sites known to be negative, including 293 indels and 247 negative indel sites. DNA libraries were prepared from genomic DNA using the Illumina TruSeq sample preparation kit. DNA was fragmented using Covaris technology and the libraries were prepared without gel size selection. Target enrichment was performed in pools of six libraries using the Illumina TruSeq Exome Enrichment kit. The captured DNA libraries were PCR amplified using the supplied paired-end PCR primers. Sequencing was performed with an Illumina HiSeq2000 (v3 flow cell, one pool per lane) generating 2x101-bp reads. Technology – Illumina HiSeq 2000

Study EGAS00001001332

Loss-of-activity-mutation in the cardiac chloride-bicarbonate exchanger AE3 causes short QT syndrome

Patients with short QT syndrome (SQTS) may present with syncope, ventricular fibrillation or sudden cardiac death. Six SQTS susceptibility genes, encoding cation channels, explain less than 25% of SQTS cases. Here we identify a missense mutation in the anion exchanger (AE3)-encoding SLC4A3 gene in two unrelated families with SQTS. The mutation causes reduced surface expression of AE3 and reduced membrane bicarbonate transport. Slc4a3 knockdown in zebrafish causes increased cardiac pHi, short QTc, and reduced systolic duration, which is rescued by wildtype but not mutated SLC4A3. Mechanistic analyses suggest that an increase in pHi and decrease in [Cl-]i shortened the action potential duration. However, other mechanisms may also play a role. Altered anion transport represents a mechanism for development of arrhythmia and may provide new therapeutic possibilities.

Study EGAS00001002632

Chromosome Y Philogeny in Sardinia

Genetic variation within the male specific portion of the Y chromosome (MSY) can clarify the origins of contemporary populations, but previous studies were hampered by partial genetic information. Population sequencing of 1,204 Sardinian males identified 11,763 MSY single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which 6,751 have not previously been observed. We constructed a MSY phylogenetic tree containing all main haplogroups found in Europe along with many Sardinian-specific lineage clusters within each haplogroup. The tree was calibrated with archaeological data from the initial expansion of the Sardinian population ~7,700 years ago. The ages of nodes highlight different genetic strata in Sardinia and reveal presumptive timing of coalescence with other human populations. We calculate a putative age for coalescence of ~180-200,000 years ago, consistent with previous mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) based estimates.

Study EGAS00001000532

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