5522 results for "*oma"

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• 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

• Frequent alterations in cytoskeleton remodeling genes in primary and metastatic Chinese lung adenocarcinomas

  The landscape of genetic alterations in lung adenocarcinoma derived from Asian patients is largely uncharacterized. Here we present an integrated genomic and transcriptomic analysis of 335 primary lung adenocarcinomas and 35 corresponding lymph node metastases from Chinese patients. Altogether 13 significantly mutated genes are identified, including themost commonly mutated gene TP53 and novel mutation targets such as RHPN2, GLI3 and MRC2. TP53 mutations are furthermore significantly enriched in tumours from patients harbouring metastases. Genes regulating cytoskeleton remodelling processes are also frequently altered, especially in metastatic samples, of which the high expression level of IQGAP3 is identified as a marker for poor prognosis. Our study represents the first large-scalesequencing effort on lung adenocarcinoma in Asian patients and provides a comprehensive mutational landscape for both primary and metastatic tumours. This may thus form a basis for personalized medical care and shed light on the molecular pathogenesis of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma.

  Study EGAS00001000982

• SCAT_osteosarcoma_sequencing

  Agilent whole exome hybridisation capture will be performed on genomic DNA derived from 50 osteosarcoma cancers and matched normal DNA from the same patients. Three lanes of Illumina GA sequencing will be performed on the resulting 100 exome libraries and mapped to build 37 of the human reference genome to facilitate the identification of novel cancer genes

  Study EGAS00001000196

• Ultraviolet radiation drives mutations in a subset of mucosal melanomas

  Although identified as the key environmental driver of common cutaneous melanoma, the role of ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced DNA damage in mucosal melanoma is poorly defined. We present the largest cohort of mucosal melanomas of conjunctival origin to be analyzed by whole genome sequencing and show a predominance of UVR-associated single base substitution signature 7 (SBS7) in the majority of the samples. Our data shows mucosal melanomas with SBS7 dominance have similar genomic patterns to cutaneous melanomas and therefore this subset could benefit from treatments currently used for common cutaneous melanoma.

  Study EGAS00001004697

• Robust detection of translocations in lymphoma FFPE samples using Targeted Locus Capture-based sequencing

  Chromosomal translocations with immunoglobin (IG) loci are the classic drivers in a large subset of B-cell lymphomas. Detection of these translocations is important for confirmation of diagnosis and for prognosis and therapy decisions. Currently, molecular diagnosis of translocations in lymphomas is not addressed well by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). The standard method for detection of translocations is Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), which is labor-intensive, and can be difficult to interpret. There is a need for a robust technology that can be standardized. Targeted Locus Capture (TLC) selectively enriches and sequences entire genes based on the crosslinking of physically proximal sequences, and thereby enables complete sequencing of genes of interest, including detection of large structural variants. Because the technology is based on the crosslinking and fragmenting of DNA, it has particular advantages in the analysis of Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) samples, in which DNA is inherently crosslinked and fragmented. In order to validate the FFPE-TLC technology as a novel approach for translocation detection in lymphoma samples, we have developed a panel assay containing genes with frequent translocations (MYC, BCL2, BCL6, IG loci). With this assay we have analyzed >140 lymphoma and control FFPE samples of variable input amounts and qualities that had previously been analyzed with FISH, and a subset also with standard targeted NGS. Good concordance with FISH results was observed for both translocation positive and negative samples. In 10 cases for which FFPE-TLC detected a relevant fusion and FISH had been called negative, discordance could be explained by higher sensitivity of FFPE-TLC or by inconclusive FISH results. In a specific case, FFPE-TLC detected a small-distance rearrangement on chromosome 3 that caused a BCL6 fusion but led to insufficient and therefore undetectable break-apart with FISH. Secondly, the FFPE-TLC approach was tested on a set of 19 B-cell lymphoma FFPE samples that had previously been analyzed using standard targeted NGS and FISH and was enriched for discordant results between these methods. FFPE-TLC-based NGS enables more robust translocation calling as the detection relies on broad sequencing coverage across the translocation partner rather than on breakpoint sequences only. In 3 cases, FFPE-TLC could proof false negative calls in standard targeted NGS due to breakpoints located in regions difficult to capture or to sequence. In 1 case, standard targeted NGS had made a false positive call on a breakpoint sequence that was shown to be caused by a small insertion rather than a genuine translocation. This study shows that FFPE-TLC promises to be a robust alternative for FISH analysis and standard targeted NGS procedures in lymphoma diagnostics and possibly in other cancers with frequent structural variants. The FFPE-TLC approach enables a single, DNA-based NGS test detecting both small mutations and translocations.

  Study EGAS00001004760

• Rna-Seq Leiomyosarcoma subtypes

  Leiomyosarcomas (LMS) are genetically heterogeneous tumors differentiating along smooth muscle lines. Currently, LMS treatment is not informed by molecular subtyping and is associated with highly variable survival. While disease site continues to dictate clinical management, the contribution of genetic factors to LMS subtype, origins, and timing are unknown. Here we analyzed 70 genomes and 130 transcriptomes of LMS, including multiple tumor regions and paired metastases. Molecular profiling highlighted the extremely early origins of LMS. Three specific subtypes of LMS develop from distinct lineages of smooth muscle cells. Of these, dedifferentiated LMS with high immune infiltration and tumors primarily of gynaecological origin acquired the highest burden of genomic mutation and are associated with worse survival. Homologous recombination defects lead to genome-wide mutational signatures, and a corresponding sensitivity to PARP and other DNA damage response inhibitors, suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy for LMS. Finally, by phylogenetic reconstruction, we present evidence that clones seeding lethal metastases arise decades prior to LMS diagnosis.

  Study EGAS00001004783

• DERMATLAS__Hidradenoma_papilliferum_RNAseq

  Virtually no other tumour type is associated with so many different forms as skin cancer. Histologically, tumours of the skin may arise from epithelium, including epidermis, hair follicle, sebaceous or sweat gland, melanocytes, dermal-associated mesenchymal structures or tissue resident immune cells, making for a diversity of clinical presentations. Importantly, many skin tumour types have an extremely poor prognosis. Many skin tumour subtypes have never undergone molecular profiling, or if they have, targeted sequencing has been used and the number of cases analyzed has been so limited that deriving firm conclusions about the profile of driver genes, DNA mutational signatures and germline alleles has not been possible For 70 key skin tumour subtypes defined by the World Health Organization, that have not undergone extensive genetic analysis previoulsy, we propose to perform whole exome and transcriptome sequencing, from a range of body sites, to build a genomic atlas of dermatological tumours, including detailed maps of SNVs, copy number alterations, genome-wide methylation and expression profiles. The cases in this cohort are hidradenoma papilliferums.

  Study EGAS00001005715

• Targeted and shallow whole genome sequencing identifies therapeutic opportunities in p53abn endometrial cancers

  Purpose: Shallow whole genome sequencing (sWGS) can detect copy number (CN) aberrations. In high-grade serous ovarian (HGSOC) sWGS identified CN signatures such as homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) to direct therapy. We applied sWGS with targeted sequencing to p53abn endometrial cancers (ECs) to identify additional prognostic stratification and therapeutic opportunities. Experimental Design: sWGS and targeted panel sequencing was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded p53abn ECs. CN alterations, mutational data and CN signatures were derived, and associations to clinicopathologic and outcomes data were assessed. Results: In 187 p53abn ECs, 5 distinct CN signatures were identified. Signature 5 was associated with BRCA1/2 CN loss with features similar to HGSOC HRD signature. 22% potential HRD cases were identified, 35 patients with signature 5, and 8 patients with BRCA1/2 somatic mutations. Signatures 3 and 4 were associated with whole genome duplication, and CCNE1, ERBB2 and MYC amplifications, with mutations in PIK3CA enriched in signature 3. We observed improved overall survival (OS) for patients with signature 2 and worse OS for signatures 1 and 3. 28% of patients had CCNE1 amplification and this subset was enriched with carcinosarcoma histotype. 34% of patients, across all histotypes, had ERBB2 amplification and/or HER2 overexpression on immunohistochemistry, which was associated with worse outcomes. Mutations in PPP2R1A (29%) and FBXW7 (16%) were among the top 5 most common mutations. Conclusions: sWGS and targeted sequencing identified therapeutic opportunities in 75% of p53abn EC patients. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of treatments targeting these identified pathways within p53abn ECs.

  Study EGAS00001007661

• Multi-omic and functional analysis for classification and treatment of sarcomas with FUS-TFCP2 or EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions(H021/INF)

  Many rare cancers are not well understood, and pathogenesis-directed therapies are often lacking, resulting in poor patient outcomes. Leveraging two (inter)national precision oncology trials that enroll large numbers of rare cancers, we investigated the clinical, histopathologic, molecular, and functional characteristics of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) with fusions of FUS or EWSR1 to the TFCP2 transcription factor, a recently discovered ultra-rare entity whose classification, pathogenesis, and optimal treatment are unclear. Unusually for fusion-driven sarcomas, most cases had highly rearranged genomes, including chromothripsis, and signs of defective homologous recombination DNA repair. All tumors showed extreme expression of a truncated TERT variant and the ALK receptor tyrosine kinase, which was additionally affected by intragenic deletions and aberrant splicing, resulting in the expression of shortened variants in 58% of cases. Three ALK variants were oncogenic in immortalized cells, and patient-derived tumor cells expressing two variants responded to certain ALK inhibitors. Other recurrent alterations included CDKN2A/MTAP co-deletions and mutations in PAPPA2, encoding an IGFBP5-specific proteinase, in 67% and 25% of cases, respectively. DNA methylation analysis, along with 19 other soft-tissue sarcoma classes, revealed a close relationship with undifferentiated sarcoma but not other RMS subtypes, suggesting that TFCP2-rearranged RMS is a separate entity, possibly arising from a distinct cell of origin. Expression of TFCP2 fusions in immortalized human cells blocked late myogenic differentiation and significantly induced genes that were also highly expressed in patient tumors, including ALK, TERT, and two known regulators of skeletal muscle cells, IGFBP5 and PTH1R. Genome-wide chromatin profiling demonstrated direct binding of FUS-TFCP2 to the ALK and TERT loci outside their regular promoters, which correlated with the expression of alternative transcript variants. Finally, FUS-TFCP2 inhibited the repair of DNA double-strand breaks in immortalized cells, rendering them sensitive to treatment with cisplatin. This study provides insight into the pathogenesis and therapeutic vulnerabilities of a new RMS subtype and illustrates the value of linking comprehensive molecular diagnostics and functional annotation within multicenter consortia to improve the understanding and clinical management of rare cancers.

  Study EGAS00001006939

• Clonal relationships of ductal carcinoma in situ and recurrent invasive breast cancers defined by genomic analysis

  Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) is the most common form of pre-invasive breast cancer and despite treatment a small fraction (5-10%) of DCIS patients present with invasive disease many years later. A fundamental biologic question is whether the invasive disease recurring in the same breast is established by tumor cells in the initial DCIS or represents new unrelated disease. To address this question, we performed genomic analyses on the initial pure DCIS lesion and paired invasive recurrent tumors in 95 patients together with single cell DNA sequencing in a subset of cases. Our data shows that in 75% the invasive recurrence was clonally related to the initial DCIS, suggesting that the tumor cells were not eliminated during the initial treatment with surgery +/- radiotherapy. Surprisingly however, 18% were clonally unrelated to the DCIS, representing new independent lineages, and 7% of cases were ambiguous. Our findings show that although DCIS is often the precursor of invasive recurrence, a significant fraction of invasive recurrences are unrelated to the initial DCIS. This knowledge is essential for accurate risk evaluation of DCIS treatment de-escalation strategies and the identification of predictive biomarkers.

  Study EGAS00001005784

• Integrated genomic analyses identify ARID1A and ARID1B alterations in the childhood cancer neuroblastoma

  Neuroblastomas are tumors of peripheral sympathetic neurons and are the most common solid tumor in children. To determine the genetic basis for neuroblastoma we performed whole-genome sequencing (6 cases), exome sequencing (16 cases), genome-wide rearrangement analyses (32 cases), and targeted analyses of specific genomic loci (40 cases) using massively parallel sequencing. On average each tumor had 19 somatic alterations in coding genes (range, 3-70). Among genes not previously known to be involved in neuroblastoma, chromosomal deletions and sequence alterations of chromatin remodeling genes, ARID1A and ARID1B, were identified in 8 of 71 tumors (11%) and were associated with early treatment failure and decreased survival. Using tumor-specific structural alterations, we developed an approach to identify rearranged DNA fragments in sera, providing personalized biomarkers for minimal residual disease detection and monitoring. These results highlight dysregulation of chromatin remodeling in pediatric tumorigenesis and provide new approaches for the management of neuroblastoma patients.Data Provider: Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center (SKCCC)

  Study EGAS00001000369

• Volasertib preclinical activity in high-risk hepatoblastoma

  Relapsed and metastatic hepatoblastoma represents an unmet clinical need with limited chemotherapy treatment options. In a chemical screen, we identified volasertib as an agent with in vitro activity, inhibiting hepatoblastoma cell growth while sparing normal hepatocytes. Volasertib targets PLK1 and prevents the progression of mitosis, resulting in eventual cell death. PLK1 is overexpressed in hepatoblastoma biopsies relative to normal liver tissue. As a potential therapeutic strategy, we tested the combination of volasertib and the relapse-related hepatoblastoma chemotherapeutic irinotecan. We found both in vitro and in vivo efficacy of this combination, which may merit further preclinical investigation and exploration for a clinical trial concept.

  Study EGAS00001004827

• Early evolutionary branching across spatial domains predisposes to clonal replacement under chemotherapy in neuroblastoma

  Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the most lethal childhood cancers due its propensity to treatment resistance. By spatial mapping of subclone geographies before and after chemotherapy across 89 tumor regions from 12 NBs, we find that densely packed territories of closely related subclones present at diagnosis are replaced under effective treatment by islands of distantly related survivor subclones, originating from a different most recent ancestor compared to lineages dominating before treatment. Conversely, in tumors that progressed under treatment, ancestors of subclones dominating later in disease are present already at diagnosis. Chemotherapy treated xenografts and cell culture models replicates these two contrasting scenarios and shows branching evolution to be a constant feature of proliferating NB cells. Phylogenies based on whole genome sequencing of 505 individual NB cells indicate that a rich repertoire of parallel subclones, emerges already with the first oncogenic mutations and lays the foundation for clonal replacement under treatment.

  Study EGAS00001007650

• Enhanced detection of circulating tumor DNA by fragment size analysis

  Existing methods to improve detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) have focused on sensitivity for detecting genomic alterations but have rarely considered the biological properties of plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA). We hypothesized that differences in fragment lengths of circulating DNA could be exploited to enhance sensitivity for detecting the presence of ctDNA and for non-invasive genomic analysis of cancer. We surveyed ctDNA fragment sizes in 344 plasma samples from 200 cancer patients using low-pass whole-genome sequencing (0.4×). To establish the size distribution of mutant ctDNA, tumor-guided personalized deep sequencing was performed in 19 patients. We detected enrichment of ctDNA in fragment sizes between 90–150 bp, and developed methods for in vitro and in silico size selection of these fragments. Selecting fragments between 90–150 bp improved detection of tumor DNA, with more than 2-fold median enrichment in >95% of cases, and more than 4-fold enrichment in > 10% of cases. Analysis of size-selected cfDNA identified clinically actionable mutations and copy number alterations that were otherwise not detected. Identification of plasma samples from patients with advanced cancer was improved by predictive models integrating fragment length and copy number analysis of cfDNA, with AUC> 0.99 compared to AUC < 0.80 without fragmentation features. Increased identification of cfDNA from patients with glioma, renal, and pancreatic cancer was achieved with AUC > 0.91, compared to AUC < 0.5 without fragmentation features. Fragment size analysis and selective sequencing of specific fragment sizes can boost ctDNA detection. This could reduce the required depth of cfDNA sequencing for clinical applications, earlier diagnosis and study of tumor biology.

  Study EGAS00001003258

• Comparative genomics research for Chinese colorectal cancer

  In order to clarify the mechanisms of genesis and development of colorectal carcinoma, in this study, we performed comparative genomics research in Chinese colorectal cancer at various clinical stage via whole exon sequencing or whole genome sequencing. Comparative bioinformatical analysis was perform to find the difference on somatic single-nucleotide variants, short insert/deletion variants, genomic structural variants, and copy number variants between cancer tissue and normal tissue, or among cancer tissues at various clinical stages.

  Study EGAS00001002576

• Osteosarcoma_Targeted_Sequencing_Study

  This Study uses a focused bespoke bait pull down library method to target findings of Osteosarcoma whole genome and whole exome sequencing studies in order to validate findings. This method will also be used on a larger set of tumour only samples in order to find precedence of these findings in a larger set of patient samples.

  Study EGAS00001000278

• Whole-genome sequencing analysis of low-grade astrocytomas within the ICGC PedBrain Tumor Project

  In order to investigate the full range of genetic alterations contributing to the tumourigenesis of low-grade astrocytoma, we have conducted a next-generation sequencing-based analysis on a large series of matched tumor-normal pairs. This study, conducted by the International Cancer Genome Consortium PedBrain Tumor Project (ICGC PedBrain, http://www.pedbraintumor.org/), has revealed multiple new insights into the biological basis of this tumor entity.

  Study EGAS00001000381

• Angiosarcoma_follow_up_study

  A bespoke targeted pulldown experiment will be performed on patients with Angiosarcoma. the resulting products will be sequenced to determine the prevalence of previously found mutations in these patients.

  Study EGAS00001000405

• Analysis_of_resistance_to_PLX4032

  We have collected material from a patient who had BrafV600E mutant melanoma that wastreated with PLX4032. We have germline DNA from the patient and DNA and RNA fromdistinct lesions before and after treatment with PLX4032. We would like to exome sequencethese samples to gain a snap shot of the mechanisms of resistance that are operative.

  Study EGAS00001000415

• Comprehensive Deep Sequencing Atlas in HCC tumors

  Establishment of a comprehensive deep sequencing atlas focused on Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) tumors, employing Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), RNA Sequencing (RNAseq), and Whole Exome Sequencing (WES). The atlas aims to unravel the intricate genetic landscape of HCC, providing a detailed characterization of genomic alterations, transcriptomic profiles, and key mutations associated with this liver cancer. The integration of WGS, RNAseq, and WES data offers a holistic perspective, facilitating a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving HCC pathogenesis. The resulting atlas serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and the broader scientific community, contributing to advancements in HCC diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutic interventions.

  Study EGAS00001007694

• 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

• Novel paediatric case of a spinal high-grade astrocytoma with piloid features in a patient with Noonan Syndrome

  Noonan Syndrome (NS) is associated with an increased risk of low-grade central nervous system tumours in children but only very rarely associated with high-grade gliomas. Here we describe the first reported case of a spinal high-grade astrocytoma with piloid features (HGAP) in a child with NS. This case was a diagnostic and treatment dilemma, prior to whole-genome germline and tumour sequencing, tumour transcriptome sequencing and DNA methylation analysis. The methylation profile matched strongly with HGAP and sequencing identified somatic FGFR1 and NF1 variants and a PTPN11 germline pathogenic variant. Therapeutic targets were identified but also alterations novel to HGAP such as differential expression of VEGFA and PD-L1. The germline PTPN11 finding has not been previously described in individuals with HGAP.  This case underscores the power of precision medicine from a diagnostic, therapeutic and clinical management perspective, and describes an association between HGAP and NS which has not previously been reported.

  Study EGAS00001007937

• An RCOR1 loss-associated gene expression signature identifies a prognostically significant DLBCL subgroup

  Effective treatment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is plagued by heterogeneous responses to standard therapy, and molecular mechanisms underlying unfavorable outcomes in lymphoma patients remain elusive. Here, we profiled 148 genomes with 91 matching transcriptomes in an R-CHOP-treated DLBCL cohort to uncover molecular subgroups linked to treatment failure. Systematic integration of high-resolution genotyping arrays and RNA-seq data revealed novel deletions in RCOR1 to be associated with unfavorable progression free survival (P = 0.001). Integration of expression data from the clinical samples with data from RCOR1 knockdowns in the lymphoma cell lines KM-H2 and Raji yielded an RCOR1 loss-associated gene signature comprising of 233 genes. This signature identified a subgroup of patients with unfavorable overall survival (OS) (P = 0.023). The prognostic significance of the 233-gene signature for OS was reproduced in an independent cohort comprising of 195 R- CHOP treated patients (P = 0.039). Additionally, we discovered that within the IPI low risk group, the gene signature provides additional prognostic value that was independent of the cell-of-origin phenotype. Taken together, we present a novel and reproducible molecular subgroup of DLBCL, impacting risk-stratification of R- CHOP treated DLBCL patients and revealing a new avenue for therapeutic intervention strategies.

  Study EGAS00001001000

• Sequencing of an organoid biobank for childhood soft tissue sarcoma.

  Rhabdomyosarcomas are diverse tumors of mesenchymal origin and the most common childhood soft tissue sarcoma. Patients receive intense treatment with a nevertheless poor prognosis for high-risk patients. New therapy would benefit from additional preclinical models and their rapid establishment. Tumor organoid models (tumoroids) have so far only been established from epithelial cancers. Here, we describe generation and characterization of a collection of pediatric RMS tumoroids comprising all major subtypes.

  Study EGAS00001005912

• Anaplastic oligodendroglioma exome and RNA sequencing data

  Anaplastic oligodendrogliomas (AOs) are rare primary brain tumors which are generally incurable, with heterogeneous prognosis and few treatment targets identified. Most oligodendrogliomas have chromosome 1p/19q co-deletion and IDH mutation. We analyzed 51 AOs by whole-exome sequencing, identifying previously reported frequent somatic mutations in CIC and FUBP1. We also identified recurrent mutations in TCF12 and in an additional series of 83 AO. Overall 7.5% of AO are mutated for TCF12, which encodes an oligodendrocyte-related transcription factor. 80% of TCF12 mutations identified were in either the bHLH domain, which is important for TCF12 function as a transcription factor, or were frame shift mutations leading to TCF12 truncated for this domain. We show that these mutations compromise TCF12 transcriptional activity and are associated with a more aggressive tumor type. Our analysis provides further insights into the unique and shared pathways driving AO.

  Study EGAS00001001209

• RNA_seq_analysis_of_transcriptome_variation_with_human_ESC_subclones

  Many studies over the past 10 years, culminating in the recent report of the International Stem Cell Initiative (ISCI, 2011) have shown that hPSC acquire genetic and epigenetic changes during their time in culture. Many of the genetic changes are non-random and recurrent, probably because they provide a selective growth advantage to the undifferentiated cells. Some are shared by embryonal carcinoma cells, the malignant counterparts of ES cells. The origins of these growth advantages are poorly understood, but may come from altered cell cycle dynamics, resistance to apoptosis or altered patterns of differentiation. Less is known about the nature and consequences of epigenetic changes, but it is likely that these similarly affect hPSC behaviour; e.g., enhanced expression of DLK1, an imprinted gene, is associated with altered hPSC growth (Enver et al 2005). Inevitably, these genetic and epigenetic changes will impact on our ability to use hPSC for regenerative medicine, either because malignant transformation of the undifferentiated cells or their differentiated derivatives to be used for transplantation compromises safety, or because they impede the function of those differentiated derivatives, or because they affect the efficiency with which the undifferentiated cells can be expanded and differentiated into desired cell types. Focusing initially upon the existing clinical grade hESC lines, later moving to iPSC, we will Consolidate and extend knowledge of the rate, type and functional impact of the genetic variations that occur during hPSC culture. We will use whole genome and exome sequencing as well as SNP arrays, together with clonal analysis and other cytogenetics techniques. Common changes will be compared with those found in the normal human population, at low frequency in the original cell population or observed during iPSC generation in the HIPSCI project currently based at the WTSI. These studies will provide a better understanding of the range of genetic changes that occur in hPSC beyond the CNVs already identified. In conjunction with cancer genome resources and expertise at WTSI, bioinformatic analyses of these hPSC data will allow us to assess potential impact on hPSC behaviour pertinent to applications in regenerative medicine, notably the likelihood that specific changes arising in undifferentiated PSC cultures may be associated with potential malignant transformation of differentiated progenyThis 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 EGAS00001001655

• Segmental_cherry_angioma_case

  Cherry angiomas are common benign blood vessel growths on the skin. In this study we characterise mutational profile of a cherry angioma and adjacent skin biopsied from a patient with multiple lesions with segmental presentation.

  Study EGAS00001008212

• Genomic Landscape of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor-like Melanoma

  Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST)-like melanoma is a rare malignancy with overlapping characteristics of both neural sarcoma and melanoma. The genomics of MPNST-like melanoma have not been previously described. This study provides the results of whole exome and transcriptome sequencing analysis of 8 samples from 6 patients with confirmed diagnosis of MPNST-like melanoma. This study demonstrates that MPNST-like melanoma shares oncogenic alterations common to both cutaneous melanoma and MPNST, and also suggests that MPNST-like melanoma harbors unique genomic and transcriptomic alterations.

  Study EGAS00001005065

• Engineering large chromosomal deletions by CRISPR-Cas9

  Arm-level chromosomal deletions are a prevalent and defining feature of cancer. A high degree of tumor-type and subtype specific recurrencies suggest a selective oncogenic advantage. However, due to their large size it has been difficult to pinpoint the oncogenic drivers that confer this advantage. Suitable functional genomics approaches to study the oncogenic driving capacity of arm-level deletions are limited. Here we present an effective technique to engineer arm-level deletions by CRISPR-Cas9 and create isogenic cell line models. We simultaneously induce double-strand breaks (DSBs) at two ends of a chromosomal arm and select the cells that have lost the intermittent region. Using this technique, we induced arm-level deletions on chromosome 11q (65 MB) and chromosome 6q (53 MB) in neuroblastoma cell lines. Such isogenic models enable further research on the role of arm-level deletions in tumor development and growth, and their possible therapeutic potential.

  Study EGAS00001005134

• Transcriptome sequencing of hepatocellular carcinoma biopsies (proteogenomic study)

  We performed a proteogenomic analysis of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) across clinical stages and etiologies to define the deregulated pathways and heterogeneity among HCCs. We identified pathways that are differentially regulated on the genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and phosphoproteomic levels. Integrative clustering identified HCC subgroups that show distinct regulation of biological processes, metabolic reprogramming and kinase activation.

  Study EGAS00001005074

• ARAF Mutations Confer Resistance to RAF Dimer Inhibitor Belvarafenib in NRAS- and BRAF- Mutant Melanoma

  Belvarafenib, a potent and selective RAF dimer (type II) inhibitor, exhibits clinical activity in BRAFV600E- and NRAS-mutant melanoma patients. Here, we report the first-in-human phase I study investigating maximum tolerated dose, assessing safety and preliminary efficacy of belvarafenib in BRAF- and RAS-mutated advanced solid tumors (NCT02405065, NCT03118817). Through generation of belvarafenib resistant NRAS- mutant melanoma cells and analysis of circulating tumor DNA from patients treated with belvarafenib, we identified novel recurrent mutations in ARAF within the kinase domain. ARAF mutants conferred resistance to belvarafenib in both a dimer- and kinase activity- dependent manner. Belvarafenib induced ARAF mutant dimers, and dimers containing mutant ARAF were active in the presence of inhibitor. ARAF mutations may serve as a general resistance mechanism for RAF dimer inhibitors as the mutants exhibit reduced sensitivity to a panel of type II RAF inhibitors. The combination of RAF plus MEK inhibition may be used to delay ARAF-driven resistance and suggests a rational combination for clinical use. Taken together, our findings reveal specific and compensatory functions for the ARAF isoform and implicate ARAF mutations as a driver of resistance to RAF dimer inhibitors.

  Study EGAS00001005086

• Biallelic HMBS Inactivation Defines a Homogenous Clinico-Molecular Subtype of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

  Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP), caused by heterozygous germline mutations of the heme synthesis pathway enzyme HMBS (hydroxymethylbilane synthase), confers high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Yet, the role of HMBS in liver tumorigenesis remains unclear. Here we explore HMBS alterations in a large series of 758 HCC. We identify recurrent bi-allelic HMBS inactivation, both in AIP patients acquiring a second somatic HMBS mutation and in sporadic HCC with two somatic hits. HMBS alterations are enriched in truncative mutations, in particular in splice regions, leading to abnormal transcript structures. Bi-allelic HMBS inactivation results in a massive accumulation of its toxic substrate porphobilinogen and synergizes with CTNNB1 activating mutations, leading to the development of well differentiated tumors with a transcriptomic signature of Wnt/ß-catenin pathway activation and a DNA methylation signature related to ageing. HMBS-inactivated HCC mostly affect females, in absence of fibrosis and classical HCC risk factors. These data identify HMBS as a tumor suppressor gene whose bi-allelic inactivation defines a homogenous clinical and molecular HCC subtype.

  Study EGAS00001005986

• Therapeutic Targeting of Ependymoma as Informed by Oncogenic Enhancer Profiling

  Genomic sequencing has driven precision-based oncology therapy; however, genetic drivers remain unknown or non-targetable for many malignancies, demanding alternative approaches to identify therapeutic leads. Ependymomas are chemotherapy-resistant brain tumours, which, despite genomic sequencing, lack effective molecular targets. Here, we mapped active chromatin landscapes in 42 primary ependymomas in two non-overlapping primary ependymoma cohorts. Enhancer regions revealed novel oncogenes, molecular targets, and pathways, which when subjected to small molecule inhibitor or shRNA treatment, increased survival and slowed proliferation in mouse and neurosphere patient-derived models of ependymomas. This study represents one of the largest enhancer mapping study of any cancer type to date, and provides a framework for target and drug discovery for other cancers recalcitrant to therapeutic development because of their lack of known genetic drivers.

  Study EGAS00001002696

• Sporadic and endemic Burkitt lymphoma have frequent FOXO1 mutations but distinct hotspots in the AKT recognition motif

  FOXO1 has an oncogenic role in adult germinal center derived lymphomas, in which mutations, predominately within the AKT recognition motif, cause nuclear retention of FOXO1 resulting in increased cell proliferation. To determine the prevalence and distribution of FOXO1 mutations in pediatric Burkitt lymphoma (BL), we sequenced a large number of sporadic and endemic BL patient samples. We report a high frequency of FOXO1 mutations in both sporadic and endemic BL at diagnosis, occurring in 23/78 (29%) and 48/89 (54%) samples respectively, as well as 8/16 (50%) cases at relapse. Mutations of T24 were the most common in sporadic BL but were rare in endemic cases, in which mutations of residue S22, also within the AKT recognition motif, were the most frequent. FOXO1 mutations were almost always present in the major tumor cell clone but were not associated with outcome. Analysis of other recurrent mutations reported in BL revealed that FOXO1 mutations were associated with mutations of DDX3X and ARID1A, but not MYC, TCF3/ID3 or members of the phosphatidylinositol 3’ OH kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. We further show common nuclear retention of the FOXO1 protein, irrespective of mutation status, suggesting alternative unknown mechanisms for maintaining FOXO1 transcriptional activity in BL. CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of FOXO1 in an endemic cell line produced a significant decrease in cell proliferation, supporting an oncogenic role for FOXO1 in endemic BL. Thus, FOXO1 is frequently mutated in both sporadic and endemic BL and may offer a potential therapeutic target for pediatric BL patients worldwide.

  Study EGAS00001003719

• Whole genome sequencing and whole exome sequencing of DIPG tumors and matched normal tissue

  Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a fatal brain cancer that arises in the brainstem of children with no effective treatment. To understand what drives DIPGs we integrated whole-genome-sequencing with methylation, expression and copy-number profiling.

  Study EGAS00001000575

• Whole exome sequencing of papillary thyroid carcinoma in the Chinese population

  Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer. Here we submitted the sequencing results for PTC using 91 tumor-normal pairs through exome sequencing in the Chinese Han population.

  Study EGAS00001001268

• A Proteogenomic Analysis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma in a Chinese Population

  Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a common and aggressive subtype of renal cancer. Here we conduct a comprehensive proteogenomic analysis of 232 tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissue pairs from Chinese ccRCC patients. By comparing with tumor adjacent tissues, we find that ccRCC shows extensive metabolic dysregulation and an enhanced immune response. Molecular subtyping classifies ccRCC tumors into three subtypes (GP1–3), among which the most aggressive GP1 exhibits the strongest immune phenotype, increased metastasis, and metabolic imbalance, linking the multi-omics-derived phenotypes to clinical outcomes of ccRCC. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), a one-carbon 38 metabolic enzyme, is identified as a potential marker of ccRCC and a drug target for GP1. We demonstrate that NNMT induces DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) homocysteinylation, increases DNA repair, and promotes ccRCC tumor growth. This study provides insights into the biological underpinnings and prognosis assessment of ccRCC, revealing targetable metabolic vulnerabilities.

  Study EGAS00001006005

• Angiosarcoma_whole_exome

  Extension of angiosarcoma whole genome sequencing study

  Study EGAS00001000588

• Whole exome sequencing data for paired non-serous endometrial and ovarian carcinomas from 27 patients with concurrent tumours.

  Introduction: Concurrent non-serous endometrial and ovarian tumours are often managed clinically as two separate primary tumours, but almost all exhibit evidence of a genomic relationship. Methodology: This study investigates the extent of relatedness using whole exome sequencing, which was performed on paired non-serous endometrial and ovarian carcinomas from 27 patients with concurrent tumours in a cohort with detailed clinicopathological annotation. Four whole exome sequencing-derived parameters (mutation, mutational burden, mutational signatures and mutant allele tumour heterogeneity scores) were used to develop a novel unsupervised model for the assessment of genomic similarity to infer genomic relatedness of paired tumours. Results: This novel model demonstrated genomic relatedness across all four parameters in all tumour pairs. Mutations in PTEN, ARID1A, CTNNB1, KMT2D and PIK3CA occurred most frequently and 24 of 27 (89 %) tumour pairs shared identical mutations in at least one of these genes, with all pairs sharing mutations in a number of other genes. Ovarian endometriosis, CTNNB1 exon 3 mutation, and progression and death from disease were present across the similarity ranking. Mismatch repair deficiency was associated with less genomically similar pairs. Discussion: Although there was diversity across the cohort, the presence of genomic similarity in all paired tumours supports the hypothesis that concurrent non-serous endometrial and ovarian carcinomas are genomically related and may have arisen from a common origin. Keywords: Co-existing; Concurrent; Endometrial carcinoma; Genomics; Mutation; Ovarian carcinoma; Paired tumours; Tumour mutational burden.

  Study EGAS00001008259

• Genomic characterization of NUT midline carcinoma

  In this study, we sequenced two NUT midline carcinoma genomes. Analysis of rearrangement breakpoint provided information on the generating event of BRD-NUT rearrangements. Mutational signature analysis also revealed biological process during tumorigenesis of NUT midline carcinomas.

  Study EGAS00001001934

• The T cell receptor repertoire of tumor infiltrating T cells is predictive and prognostic for cancer survival

  Tumor infiltration by T cells is paramount for effective anti-cancer immune responses. We hypothesized that the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire of tumor infiltrating T lymphocytes (TIL/Tc) could determine disease course at different stages in cancer progression. We show that the diversity of the TIL/Tc TCR at baseline is prognostic in various cancers, whereas in metastatic melanoma TIL/Tc TCR clonality at baseline is predictive for activity and efficacy of PD1 blockade immunotherapy.

  Study EGAS00001005201

• Osteosarcoma_RNAseq

  We propose to definitively characterise the somatic genetics of Osteosarcoma cancer through generation of comprehensive catalogues of somatic mutations by high coverage genome and transcriptome sequencing.

  Study EGAS00001000615

• The ITCC-P4 PDX platform of pediatric cancers for preclinical testing

  Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related deaths among children in high-income countries. Tumor heterogeneity and lack of mechanism-of-action-based therapeutic options are key challenges to overcome in order to improve pediatric cancer patients’ survival. Here, we report the EU-IMI-2 funded public-private partnership “ITCC-Pediatric Preclinical Proof-of-Concept Platform” (ITCC-P4), which has built a large repertoire of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, representing all major solid pediatric cancer types, for in vivo drug testing. Three-hundred-fifty-three PDX models from diagnostic and relapsed pediatric cancers have been established and molecularly characterized, together with matched germline/tumor samples. As proof-of-concept, we present in vivo drug screening data in neuroblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma models. PDX data, accessible at http://r2platform.com/itcc-p4, allow the selection of models based on oncogenic drivers and/or potential biomarkers for preclinical testing. Operated by a non-profit entity (www.itccp4.com), this sustainable platform aids academic and industrial researchers in developing and prioritizing innovative therapies for pediatric cancer.

  Study EGAS00001008330

• Sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma case report

  Sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF) is a rare and aggressive soft tissue sarcomathought to originate in fibroblasts of the tissues surrounding tendons, ligaments and muscles. Minimally responsive to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapies, greater than 50% of SEF patients experience relapse and/or metastatic disease. SEF is most commonly discovered in middle-aged and elderly adults, but also rarely in children. A common gene fusion occurring between the EWSR1 and CREB3L1 genes has been observed in 80-90% of SEF cases. We describe here the youngest SEF patient reported to date (a 3-year-old Caucasian male) who presented with numerous bony and lung metastases. Additionally, we perform a comprehensive literature review of all SEF-related articles published since the disease was first characterized. The patient described in this report experienced persistent disease progression despite being heavily treated with multiple surgeries, radiation, numerous chemotherapies and targeted therapeutics. Primary tumor, metastatic and relapse sites were sequenced by whole genome, whole exome, and deep transcriptome next generation sequencing with comparison to a patient-matched normal blood sample. Consistent across all sequencing analyses was the disease-defining EWSR1-CREB3L1 fusion as a single feature consensus. We provide an analysis of our genomic findings and a discussion as to potential therapeutic strategies for SEF.

  Study EGAS00001005214

• Hyperhaploid Multiple Myeloma

  Hyperhaploid multiple myeloma is a rare numerical aberration group defined by a range of 24-34 chromosomes which is associated with a poor prognosis. Hyperhaploid samples were sequenced by either exome or targeted panel sequencing. Samples had a median of 13 monosomies (range 12-14), which in general were those not associated with trisomies in hyperdiploid samples. The chromosomes traditionally trisomic in hyperdiploid myeloma were disomic in hyperhaploid myeloma with retention of heterodisomy. We examined the hyperhaploid samples for frequently mutated genes and found that 9/9 (100%) hyperhaploid samples had a mutation in TP53, exceeding the overall rate of mutation in newly diagnosed patients (5.5%), indicating an oncogenic dependency in this group. All samples with TP53 mutation also had monosomy of chromosome 17, indicating bi-allelic inactivation of TP53. As such, this high risk group is part of Double-Hit myeloma. DNA was obtained from either CD138+ cells from the bone marrow of multiple myeloma patients (tumor) or from stem cell harvests from the same patient (control). 100 ng of DNA was fragmented, end-repaired, and adapters ligated using the HyperPlus kit (KAPA Biosystems). After PCR amplification the libraries were hybridized with probes against either the entire exome (MedExome, Nimblegen) or a targeted panel of 140 genes using SeqCap reagents (Nimblegen). Hybridized libraries underwent further amplification before being sequenced on a NextSeq500 (Illumina) using 75 bp paired end reads.

  Study EGAS00001003203

• Detecting and tracking circulating tumour DNA copy number profiles during first line chemotherapy in oesophagogastric adenocarcinoma

  DNA somatic copy number aberrations (SCNAs) are key drivers in oesophago-gastric adenocarcinoma (OGA). Whether minimally invasive SCNA analysis of circulating tumour (ct)DNA can predict treatment outcomes and reveal how SCNAs evolve during chemotherapy is unknown. We investigated this by low-coverage whole genome sequencing (lcWGS) of ctDNA from 30 patients with advanced OGA prior to first-line chemotherapy and on progression.

  Study EGAS00001003695

• Telomerase activation by genomic rearrangements in high-risk neuroblastoma

  Neuroblastoma is a malignant pediatric tumor of the sympathetic nervous system1. Roughly half of these tumors regress spontaneously or are cured by limited therapy. By contrast, high-risk neuroblastomas have an unfavorable clinical course despite intensive multimodal treatment, and their molecular basis has remained largely elusive2-4. We have performed whole-genome sequencing of 56 neuroblastomas (high-risk, n=39; low-risk, n=17) and discovered recurrent genomic rearrangements affecting a chromosomal region (5p15.22) proximal of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT). These rearrangements occurred only in high-risk neuroblastomas (12/39, 31%) in mutually exclusive fashion with MYCN amplifications and ATRX mutations, which are known genetic events in this tumor type1,2,5. In an extended case series (n=217), TERT rearrangements defined a subgroup of high-risk tumors with particularly poor outcome. Despite the large diversity of these rearrangements, they all induced massive transcriptional upregulation of TERT. In the remaining high-risk tumors, TERT expression was also elevated in MYCN-amplified tumors, whereas alternative lengthening of telomeres was present in neuroblastomas without TERT or MYCN alterations, suggesting that telomere lengthening represents a central mechanism defining this subtype. The 5p15.22 rearrangements juxtapose the TERT coding sequence to strong enhancer elements, resulting in massive chromatin remodeling and DNA methylation of the affected region. Supporting a functional role of TERT, neuroblastoma cells bearing rearrangements or amplified MYCN exhibited both upregulated TERT expression and enzymatic telomerase activity. In summary, our findings show that remodeling of the genomic context abrogates transcriptional silencing of TERT in high-risk neuroblastoma and places telomerase activation in the center of transformation in a large fraction of these tumors.

  Study EGAS00001001308

• Whole genome and transcriptome analysis of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma

  Whole genome and transcriptome analysis of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma

  Study EGAS00001001214

• CD74-NRG1 fusions in lung adenocarcinoma

  We discovered a novel somatic gene fusion, CD74-NRG1, by transcriptome sequencing of 25 lung adenocarcinomas of never smokers. By screening 102 lung adenocarcinomas negative for known oncogenic alterations we found four additional fusion-positive tumors, all of which were of the invasive mucinous subtype. Mechanistically, CD74-NRG1 leads to extracellular expression of the EGF-like domain of NRG1 III-beta3, thereby providing the ligand for ERBB2-ERBB3 receptor complexes. Accordingly, ERBB2 and ERBB3 expression was high in the index case and expression of phospho-ERBB3 was specifically found in tumors bearing the fusion (p<0.0001). Ectopic expression of CD74-NRG1 in lung cancer cell lines expressing ERBB2 and ERBB3 activated ERBB3 and the PI3K-AKT pathway, and led to increased colony formation in soft agar. Thus, CD74-NRG1 gene fusions are activating genomic alterations in invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas and may offer a therapeutic opportunity for a lung tumor subtype with, so far, no effective treatment.

  Study EGAS00001000653

• Independent development of lymphoid and histiocytic malignancies from a shared early precursor

  Recent reports have described lineage flexibility in patients with recurrent hematologic malignancies. We encountered a boy with T-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis and histiocytic sarcoma. All tumors showed identical T-cell receptor rearrangements, but SNP arrays and whole exome sequencing revealed unique aberrations in each tumor. From the genetic data we conclude that the tumors were derived from a precursor cell with lineage plasticity for both lymphoid and myeloid development. From this precursor cell, the tumors evolved with independent genetic progression in a non-linear manner.

  Study EGAS00001001353