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• Comparison Between qPCR and RNA-Seq Reveals Challenges of Quantifying HLA Expression

  Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and HLA class II loci are essential elements of innate and acquired immunity. Their exceptional influence on disease outcome is well documented by GWAS and candidate gene studies. The impact of HLA allelic variation on human disease through allele-specific presentation of antigenic peptides to T cells has been the main focus to determine HLA effects on disease susceptibility/pathogenesis. However, HLA expression levels have also been implicated in disease, adding another dimension to the extreme diversity of HLA that impacts variability in immune responses across individuals. HLA expression levels routinely rely on quantitative PCR (qPCR). An alternative is adoption of high throughput technologies such as RNA-Seq. This provides the opportunity to quantify HLA expression in large datasets, but also allows comparison between RNA-Seq and qPCR. In this study, we analyze expression data for HLA Class I genes for a matched set of individuals (N = 96) by RNA-Seq, qPCR and cell surface expression. Samples were obtained from the Research Donor Program (NCI-Frederick). We observed a moderate correlation between RNA-Seq and qPCR. We suggest technical and biological factors that might contribute to differences in the techniques.

  Study phs003177

• Whole Genome Association Study of Visceral Adiposity in the Health Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study

  The Health Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study is a NIA-sponsored cohort study of the factors that contribute to incident disability and the decline in function of healthier older persons, with a particular emphasis on changes in body composition in old age. Between 4/15/97 and 6/5/98 the Health ABC study has recruited 3,075 70-79 year old community-dwelling adults (41% African-American), who were initially free of mobility and activities of daily living disability. The key components of Health ABC include a baseline exam, annual follow-up clinical exams, and phone contacts every 6 months to identify major health events and document functional status between clinic visits. The core yearly examination for HEALTH ABC includes measurement of body composition by dual energy x-ray absorptio-metry (DXA), walking ability, strength, an interview that includes self-report of limitations, and a medication survey, weight. At baseline, visceral adiposity was measured by computerized tomography (CT). Provision has been made for banking of blood specimens and extracted DNA (HealthABC repository). The overall goal of this project is to identify genetic determinants of visceral adiposity. Genetic samples from 2932 unrelated participants were evaluated with a genome-wide scan.

  Study phs000169

• Generation of a Cellular Atlas of Human Adipose Tissue

  White adipose tissue (WAT), once regarded as morphologically and functionally bland, is now recognized to be dynamic, plastic, heterogenous, and involved in a wide array of biological processes including energy homeostasis, glucose and lipid handling, blood pressure control, and host defense.  High fat feeding and other metabolic stressors cause dramatic changes in adipose morphology, physiology, and cellular composition, and alterations in adiposity are associated with insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Here we provide detailed cellular atlases of human and murine subcutaneous and visceral white fat at single-cell resolution across a range of body weight. We identify subpopulations of adipocytes, adipose stem and progenitor cells (ASPCs), vascular, and immune cells and demonstrate commonalities and differences across species and dietary conditions. We link specific cell types to increased risk of metabolic disease, and we provide an initial blueprint for a comprehensive set of interactions between individual cell types in the adipose niche in leanness and obesity. We also utilize bulk RNA sequencing data of enzymatically digested human adipocytes to scale these findings to a larger cohort. These data comprise an extensive resource for the exploration of genes, traits, and cell types in the function of WAT across species, depots, and nutritional conditions. 

  Study phs002766

• Joint-Specific TF Regulation in RA

  The mechanisms responsible for the distribution and severity of joint involvement in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are not known. To explore whether site-specific fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) biology might be associated with location-specific synovitis and explain the predilection for hand (wrist/metacarpal phalangeal joints) involvement in RA, we generated bulk, whole-genome transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility data from FLS. Samples were matched in age, sex, and were homogeneous in that all had significant joint damage with longstanding disease requiring surgical intervention. Analysis revealed joint-specific patterns of FLS phenotypes, with proliferative, migratory, proinflammatory, and matrix-degrading characteristics observed in resting FLS derived from the hand joints compared with hip or knee. TNF-stimulation amplified these differences, with greater enrichment of proinflammatory and proliferative genes in hand FLS compared with hip and knee FLS. Hand FLS also had the greatest expression of markers associated with an ‘activated' state relative to the ‘resting' state, with the greatest cytokine and MMP expression in TNF-stimulated hand FLS. Predicted differences in proliferation and migration were biologically validated with hand FLS exhibiting greater migration and cell growth than hip or knee FLS. Distinctive joint-specific FLS biology associated with a more aggressive inflammatory response might contribute to the distribution and severity of joint involvement in RA.

  Study phs003633

• Molecular Characterization of Prostate Cancer Specimens by Bulk and Single Cell Analysis

  Version 1: We performed single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) of fresh biopsies from metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer. Additionally, where available, we performed matched bulk whole exome sequencing (WXS; tumor and normal paired) and whole transcriptome sequencing for the same individuals. We also performed bulk whole exome (WXS) and RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) from FFPE pre-treatment biopsies from patients with clinically localized high-risk prostate cancer.Version 2: We added data from a randomized phase 2 trial of radium-223 with or without pembrolizumab in patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC) to bone. After enrollment, study participants underwent bone biopsy and were randomized 2:1 to receive radium-223 at 55 kBq/kg every 4 weeks + pembrolizumab at 200 mg every 3 weeks (Arm A, R223+P) or radium-223 at 55 kBq/kg every 4 weeks alone (Arm B, R223). Stratification factors were alkaline phosphatase ≥220 vs. Data generated includes bulk whole exome sequencing (WXS), ultra-low pass whole genome sequencing (WGS) at 0.1X coverage, and targeted-capture sequencing. The ultra-low pass sequencing was used as part of the selection criteria for the target capture sequencing. Note: Two subjects in this study are linked to phs001577 and phs000915 respectively.

  Study phs001988

• Pre-Existing Skin-Resident CD8 and γδ T Cell Circuits Mediate Immune Response in Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Predict Immunotherapy Efficacy

  Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer with a ~50% response rate to immunotherapy. Here, we attempted to identify novel predictive biomarkers of response through extensive and deep multi-omics interrogation of 186 samples from 116 patients. We collectively integrated bulk RNAseq, single-cell RNAseq, multiplex immunofluorescence, and spatial transcriptomics. Importantly, we were also able to study 14 matched pairs of tissue samples from pre- and post-immunotherapy. In non-responders, tumors show evidence of increased tumor cell cycling, expression of neuronal stem cell markers, and IL-1α/β. Responders have evidence of increased type I/II interferon signatures and evidence of pre-existing tissue resident (Trm) CD8 or Vδ1 γδ T cells that functionally converge with overlapping antigen-specific transcriptional programs and clonal expansion of multiple T cell receptors. Spatial transcriptomics demonstrated higher co-localization of T cells with B and dendritic cells in responders, with evidence of expression of chemokines important for co-stimulation. Finally, immunotherapy increased clonal expansion or recruitment of Trm and Vδ1 cells in tumors in responders, further underscoring their therapeutic importance. These data identify potential novel actionable biomarkers and therapeutic targets for MCC.

  Study phs003629

• Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) - GWAS

  The Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC study) was established in 2001 by the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) to improve the understanding of the relationship between chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. The goals of the CRIC Study are to examine risk factors for progression of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease among patients with chronic kidney disease and to develop predictive models to identify high-risk subgroups, informing future treatment trials and increasing application of available preventive therapies. Data available at dbGaP include genotype data for 3527 participants released in version 1. Plasma metabolomics and plasma proteomics data will be available at dbGaP in "Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) Study Metabolomics and Proteomics". Additional phenotypic, clinical, and outcomes data are available at the NIDDK Central Repository and can be linked to data available at dbGaP. More than 330 manuscripts have been published, reporting on the effects of a broad range of risk factors (from molecular biomarkers of disease pathways to clinical, demographic, and behavioral characteristics) on the progression of CKD and other health consequences. The full CRIC bibliography can be found at http://cristudy.org/Chronic-Kidney-Disease/Chronic-Renal-Insufficiency-Cohort-Study/bibliography-2024-2023.

  Study phs000524

• Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI): Pediatric In Vivo Testing Program –Sarcoma, Kidney, and Liver Cancers

  The goal was to complete whole exome sequencing (WES) and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) on patient derived xenograft samples. Cancer in children is rare with approximately 15,700 new cases diagnosed annually in children 21 years or younger in the U.S. Through use of multimodality therapy (surgery, radiation therapy, and aggressive chemotherapy), 70% of patients will be 'cured' of their disease, and 5-year Event-Free Survival (EFS) exceeds 80%. Consequently, the number of patients that can be enrolled in phase I/II clinical trials is small, and most patients will have been extensively treated, hence drug/radiation resistant. Thus, preclinical studies that accurately translate into effective clinical therapy are an essential component of pediatric drug development. Our group has contributed to studies in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP) and Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium (PPTC) that have led to clinical studies through Children's Oncology Group (COG). Of importance, we have developed and characterized over 330 Patient Derived Xenografts (PDX), developed from tumors both at diagnosis and relapse, that can be used to facilitate pediatric drug development as directed by FDA under the Research to Accelerate Cures and Equity for Children Act (RACE for Children Act).

  Study phs003160

• Examination of Engineered LINE-1 Integration Events in HeLa Cells

  Long Interspsesed Element-1 (LINE1 or L1) encodes two proteins (ORF1p and ORF2p) required for its mobilization (i.e. retrotransposition) in the human genome. Human ORF2p, a 150kDa protein, has endonuclease (EN) and reverse transcriptase (RT) activities. L1 EN is classified as apurinic/apyrimidin-like endonuclease (APE) and is responsible for initiating target-site primer reverse transcription (TPRT) during the L1 retrotransposition cycle. During canonical TPRT, the L1 EN activity makes a single-strand endonucleolytic nick at a double-strand DNA target sequence in genomic DNA. The endonucleolytic nick is typically made at an L1 EN degnerate consensus cleavage sequence (5'-TTTT/A-3') exposing a free 3' hydroxy group that can be used as a primer by the ORF2p L1 RT activity to reverse transcribe the associated L1 RNA. Here, we characterized over 21,000 de novo engineered L1 retrotransposition events in HeLa cells to determine if L1 exhibits overt integration preferences in the human genome. Bru-seq of HeLa cells to determine actively transcribed regions of the genome was also performed. This Bru-seq data was used to determine if engineered L1 integration events preferentially integrate into transcribed regions of the genome, and to determine which strand during transcription may present itself as preferential during L1 retrotransposition.

  Study phs001669

• Comprehensive gene analysis of colorectal cancer cases

  Colorectal cancer is the third most common morbidity and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the world.To characterize the mutation profiles of colorectal cancer with liver metastasis,we performed both whole-exosome sequencing and RNA sequencing for 12 cases of colorectal cancer with liver metastasis (group A) and 16 cases of colorectal cancer without liver metastasis (group B). As a result of driver mutation search by Mutsig pipeline, PTEN was identified as a significant mutant gene in group A alone.ADAMTS10,NELL1 and RXFP3 were identified as candidate genes for metastasis by MuTect,SID and VarScan pipeline.Furthermore, in all samples, the copy number of chromosomes 1p,4,7,8,13,15, 17p,18,20 and 22q were significantly abnormal. Chromosomes 1p,4,15,18,17p,22q were deleted and chromosomes 7, 8,13 and 20 were amplified by CNV.Pathway analysed revealed Wnt/Ca2+ and PCP pathway was involved in metastasis of cl cancer.9 kinds of fusion genes were identified in deFuse pipeline. Among them, ADAP1 fusion genes were identified in 2 samples, and ADAP1 fusion genes were further identified in 3 samples by our in-house algorithm. It is suggested that new fusion genes present in such multiple samples may be involved in the development of colorectal cancer.

  Study JGAS000128

• Genomic and Genetic Analysis of Brain Tumors and Analysis of Their Clinicopathological Significance

  The treatment outcome of glioma patients remains disappointing, and more studies are needed to improve therapeutic strategies. In particular, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms underlying resistance to treatment and malignant transformation, as well as the intratumoral heterogeneity and interaction of tumor cells and host immunity. Recent advances in omics analysis techniques, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), have enabled us to obtain omics data more easily and accelerated our ability to integrate this information and precisely characterize cases. In our project, we have already collected more than 100 pairs of human glioma/normal tissue samples, of which some are multiple specimens collected from initial and recurrent tumors, and some include multiple specimens collected from different regions within a single tumor. We used our in-house algorithms, composed of alignment and variant calling programs, to analyze omics data from multiple platforms, such as whole-exome sequencing (WES), RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and methylation array, with our original cohort of glioma patients. Using several informatics tools, the information about genetic and epigenetic status and expression signatures were analyzed. Those data are expected to provide key information for investigating the mechanisms discussed above. Through this project, we hope to improve strategies for personalized therapy based on comprehensive omics data.

  Study JGAS000004

• The impact of CCR8+ regulatory T cells on cytotoxic T cell function in human lung cancer

  Regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress the host immune response and maintain immune homeostasis. Tregs also promote cancer progression and are involved in resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitor treatments. Recent studies identified selective CCR8 expression on tumor-infiltrating Tregs; CCR8+ Tregs have been indicated as a possible new target of cancer immunotherapy. Here, we investigated the features of CCR8+ Tregs in lung cancer patients. CCR8+ Tregs were highly activated and infiltration of CCR8+ Tregs in tumors was associated with poor prognosis in lung cancer patients. We also investigated their immune suppressive function, especially the influence on cytotoxic T lymphocyte cell function. The Cancer Genome Analysis revealed that CD8 T cell activities were suppressed in high CCR8-expressing tumors. Additionally, depletion of CCR8+ cells enhanced CD8 T cell function in an ex vivo culture of lung tumor-infiltrating cells. Moreover, CCR8+ Tregs, but not CCR8��� Tregs, induced from human PBMCs markedly suppressed CD8 T cell cytotoxicity. Finally, we demonstrated the therapeutic effect of targeting CCR8 in a murine model of lung cancer. These findings reveal the significance of CCR8+ Tregs for immunosuppression in lung cancer, especially via cytotoxic T lymphocyte cell suppression, and suggest the potential value of CCR8-targeted therapy for cancer treatment.

  Study JGAS000454

• Hematopoietic Tet2 inactivation enhances the response to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy

  Somatic mutations inactivating TET2 are among the most common drivers of clonal hematopoiesis (CH). While TET2 inactivation is associated with monocyte-derived inflammation and improved chimeric antigen-receptor-T cell function, its impact on immunotherapy response is unknown. In murine models, hematopoietic Tet2 mutation enhanced the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) response via the combined presence of phagocytes, CD4 and CD8 T cells. This effect was lost with myeloid- or T-cell restricted Tet2 inactivation, or in mice with 20% Tet2-mutant hematopoiesis. Mechanistically, in Tet2-mutant tumor-infiltrating leukocytes (TILs), ICB preferentially restricted cell states linked to tumor progression while inducing anti-tumor states. Tet2-mutant monocytes activated costimulatory programs, while Tet2-mutant T cells showed enhanced T cell memory signatures, alongside decreased exhaustion and regulatory phenotypes. This murine data was clinically relevant, since tumors from colorectal cancer and melanoma patients with TET2 driver mutation-CH (TET2-CH) showed enhanced immune infiltration, inflammation, and T cell activation. In melanoma patients treated with ICB, TET2-CH was associated with 6-fold greater odds of clinical benefit. Collectively, we demonstrate that hematopoietic Tet2 inactivation primes leukocytes for anti-tumor states associated with immunotherapy response and provides a potential biomarker for personalized therapy.

  Study EGAS50000001191

• APOBEC3 mutagenesis drives therapy resistance in breast cancer

  Acquired genetic alterations commonly drive resistance to endocrine and targeted therapies in metastatic breast cancer, however the underlying processes engendering these diverse alterations are largely uncharacterized. To identify the mutational processes operant in breast cancer and their impact on clinical outcomes, we utilized a well-annotated cohort of 3,880 patient samples with paired tumor-normal sequencing data. The mutational signatures associated with apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide-like 3 (APOBEC3) enzymes were highly prevalent and enriched in post-treatment compared to treatment-naïve hormone receptor-positive (HR+) cancers. APOBEC3 mutational signatures were independently associated with shorter progression-free survival on antiestrogen plus CDK4/6 inhibitor combination therapy in patients with HR+ metastatic breast cancer. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of breast cancer models and selected paired primary-metastatic samples demonstrated that active APOBEC3 mutagenesis promoted resistance to both endocrine and targeted therapies through characteristic alterations such as RB1 loss-of-function mutations. Evidence of APOBEC3 activity in pre-treatment samples illustrated a pervasive role for this mutational process in breast cancer evolution. The study reveals APOBEC3 mutagenesis to be a frequent mediator of therapy resistance in breast cancer and highlights its potential as a biomarker and target for overcoming resistance.

  Study EGAS50000000875

• A neoadjuvant, phase II trial demonstrates efficacy and tolerability of Talimogene laherparepvec in cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (NeoBCC trial)

  We present a single arm, phase II neoadjuvant trial with the oncolytic virus Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) in 18 patients with difficult-to-resect basal cell carcinomas. Six cycles of T-VEC were applied intralesionally. The primary endpoint of the study, defined as the proportion of the patients, who after six cycles of T-VEC (13 weeks) at the time point of surgery, become resectable with primary wound closure without the need for plastic reconstructive surgery like skin flaps or skin grafts, was achieved (9/18 patients; 50.0%). Secondary endpoints also included the relapse free survival rate (100%), overall survival (100%) and biological read outs in the tumor samples. T-VEC led to a significant increase of cytotoxic T cells, B cells and myeloid cells, and a decrease of Tregs within the tumor microenvironment. We observed a potent induction of antitumoral and antiviral T cell clones, as well as a strong humoral immune response. The objective response rate was 55.6% and the complete pathological response rate was 33.3%. Only mild adverse events occurred. Together, neoadjuvant T-VEC represents a viable treatment option for patients with difficult-to-resect BCCs (EudraCT Number 2018-002165-19).

  Study EGAS50000000252

• Full characterization of structural variation

  Structural variants (SVs) are important contributors to human disease. Their characterization remains however difficult due to their size and association with repetitive regions. Long-read sequencing (LRS) and optical genome mapping (OGM) can aid as their molecules span multiple kilobases and capture SVs in full. In this study, we selected six individuals who presented with unresolved SVs. We applied LRS onto all individuals and OGM to a subset of three complex cases. LRS detected and fully resolved the interrogated SV in all samples. This enabled a precise molecular diagnosis in two individuals. Overall, LRS identified 100% of the junctions at single-basepair level, providing valuable insights into their formation mechanisms without need for additional data sources. Application of OGM added straightforward variant phasing, aiding in the unravelment of complex rearrangements. These results highlight the potential of LRS and OGM as follow-up molecular tests for complete SV characterization. We show that they can assess clinically relevant structural variation at unprecedented resolution. Additionally, they detect (complex) cryptic rearrangements missed by conventional methods. This ultimately leads to an increased diagnostic yield, emphasizing their added benefit in a diagnostic setting. To aid their rapid adoption, we provide detailed laboratory and bioinformatics workflows in this manuscript.

  Study EGAS50000000520

• Molecular characterization of invasive lobular carcinoma

  Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common histological subtype of breast cancer accounting for 10-15% of cases. ILC differs from invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)with respect to epidemiology, histology, and clinical presentation. Moreover, ILC is lesssensitive to chemotherapy, more frequently bilateral, and more prone to form gastrointestinal, peritoneal, and ovarian metastases than IDCs. In contrast to IDC, the prognostic value ofhistological grade (HG) in ILC is controversial. One of the three major components of histological grading (tubule formation) is missing in ILC which hinders the process of gradingin this histological subtype and results in the classification of approximately two thirds of ILC as HG 2.Over the last decade, a number of gene expression signatures have shed light onto breast cancer classification, allowing breast cancer care to become more personalized. Withrespect to the management of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer, several gene expression signatures provide prognostic and/or predictive information beyond what is possible with current classical clinico-pathological parameters alone. Nevertheless, most studies using gene expression signature have not considered different histologic subtypesseparately. Recently, a comprehensive research program has elucidated some of the biological underpinnings of invasive lobular carcinoma. Genetic material extracted from 200 ILC tumor samples were studied using gene expression profiling and identified ILCmolecular subtypes. These proliferation-driven gene signatures of ILC appear to have prognostic significance. In particular, the Genomic Grade (GG) gene signature improved upon HG in ILC and added prognostic value to classic clinico-pathologic factors. In addition this study demonstrated that most ILC are molecularly characterized as luminal-A (~75%)followed by luminal-B (~20%) and HER2-positve tumors (~5%). Moreover, we investigated the prognostic value of known gene signatures/ gene modules in the same cohort of ILC. As a second step within the scope of this project, we aim to investigate the interactionsbetween somatic ILC tumor mutations to observed transcriptome findings. To this end, we aim to perform somatic mutation analysis for the ILC tumors for which Affymetrix gene expression profiling is available. To this end, we will use a gene screen assay, which specifically interrogates the mutational status of a few hundreds of cancer genes. We believe that this pioneering effort will be fundamental for a tailored treatment of ILC withimprovement in patients' outcome.

  Dataset EGAD00001000288

• UK10K NEURO ABERDEEN

  In the UK10K project we propose a series of complementary genetic approaches to find new low frequency/rare variants contributing to disease phenotypes. These will be based on obtaining the genome wide sequence of 4000 samples from the TwinsUK and ALSPAC cohorts (at 6x sequence coverage), and the exome sequence (protein coding regions and related conserved sequence) of 6000 samples selected for extreme phenotypes. Our studies will focus primarily on cardiovascular-related quantitative traits, obesity and related metabolic traits, neurodevelopmental disorders and a limited number of extreme clinical phenotypes that will provide proof-of-concept for future familial trait sequencing. We will analyse directly quantitative traits in the cohorts and the selected traits in the extreme samples, and also use imputation down to 0.1% allele frequency to extend the analyses to further sample sets with genome wide genotype data. In each case we will investigate indels and larger structural variants as well as SNPs, and use statistical methods that combine rare variants in a locus or pathway as well as single-variant approaches. This sample set comprises cases of schizophrenia with additional cognitive measurements, collected in Aberdeen, Scotland.For further information on the Aberdeen cohort please contact David St Clair (d.stclair@abdn.ac.uk).

  Study EGAS00001000109

• 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

• Native American gene flow into Polynesia predating Easter Island settlement

  The possibility of voyaging contact between prehistoric Polynesian and Native American populations has long intrigued researchers. Proponents have pointed to the existence of New World crops, such as the sweet potato and bottle gourd, in the Polynesian archaeological record, but nowhere else outside the pre-Columbian Americas while critics have argued that these botanical dispersals need not have been human mediated. The Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl controversially suggested that prehistoric South American populations had an important role in the settlement of east Polynesia and particularly of Easter Island (Rapa Nui). Several limited molecular genetic studies have reached opposing conclusions, and the possibility continues to be as hotly contested today as it was when first suggested. Here we analyse genome-wide variation in individuals from islands across Polynesia for signs of Native American admixture, analysing 807 individuals from 17 island populations and 15 Pacific coast Native American groups. We find conclusive evidence for prehistoric contact of Polynesian individuals with Native American individuals (around AD 1200) contemporaneous with the settlement of remote Oceania. Our analyses suggest strongly that a single contact event occurred in eastern Polynesia, before the settlement of Rapa Nui, between Polynesian individuals and a Native American group most closely related to the indigenous inhabitants of present-day Colombia.

  Study EGAS00001004209

• Pediatric Non-Down Syndrome Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia is Characterized by Distinct Genomic Subsets with Varying Outcomes

  Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia (AMKL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in which cells morphologically resemble abnormal megakaryoblasts.  While extremely rare in adults, AMKL accounts for 4-15% of newly diagnosed childhood AML1-3.  A significant proportion of pediatric AMKL cases occur in children with Down syndrome (DS).  These patients have excellent outcomes and are characterized at the genomic level by a founding GATA1 mutation4-6.  In contrast, AMKL in patients without DS (non-DS-AMKL) is frequently associated with poor outcomes.  Previous efforts have identified chimeric oncogenes in a significant number of cases, including RBM15-MKL1, CBFA2T3-GLIS2, KMT2A gene rearrangements and NUP98-KDM5A7-9.  The etiology of 30-40% of cases, however, remains unknown.  To better understand the genomic landscape of non-DS-AMKL, we performed RNA and exome sequencing on specimens from 99 patients (75 pediatric and 24 adult).  We demonstrate that pediatric non-DS-AMKL is a heterogeneous malignancy that can be divided into seven subgroups with varying outcomes.  These subgroups are characterized by chimeric oncogenes with cooperating mutations in epigenetic and kinase signaling genes.  Overall, these data shed light on the etiology of AMKL and provide useful information for treatment tailoring. 

  Study EGAS00001002183

• CancerLocator: Non-Invasive Cancer Diagnosis and Tissue-of-Origin Prediction Using Methylation Profiles of Cell-Free DNA

  Background: The detection and characterization of cell-free DNA in plasma is one of the most promising new areas in cancer diagnosis. Liquid biopsy, unlike traditional tissue biopsy, has the potential to diagnose a variety of different malignancies. Results: Here we propose a probabilistic method, CancerLocator, which exploits the diagnostic potential of cell-free DNA by determining not only the presence but also the location of tumors. CancerLocator simultaneously infers the proportions and the tissue-of-origin of tumor-derived cell-free DNA in a blood sample using genome-wide DNA methylation data. We comprehensively evaluate CancerLocator with simulations and real data, and compare its performance with that of two established multi-class classification methods. We show that the predicted tumor burdens are highly consistent with the true values. In addition, when the proportion of tumor-derived DNAs in the cell-free DNAs is low, the two popular machine learning methods completely fail for cancer diagnosis, while CancerLocator successfully overcomes the challenge. CancerLocator also achieves promising results on patient plasma samples, despite the fact that the DNA methylation data from these samples has very low sequencing coverage. Conclusions: CfDNA methylation may be developed as an important approach for non-invasive early cancer diagnosis.

  Study EGAS00001002211

• High Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinomas Originate in the Fallopian Tube

  High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the most frequent type of ovarian cancer and has a poor outcome. It has been proposed that fallopian tube cancers may be precursors of HGSOC but evolutionary evidence for this hypothesis has been limited. To provide insights into the origins of HGSOC, we We performed whole-exome sequence and copy number analyses of laser-capture microdissected fallopian tube lesions (p53 signatures, serous tubal intraepithelial carcinomas (STICs), and fallopian tube carcinomas), ovarian cancers, and metastases from nine patients with HGSOC. The majority of tumor-specific sequence and structural alterations in ovarian cancers were present in STICs, including those affecting TP53, BRCA1, BRCA2 or PTEN genes. An eEvolutionary analyseis revealed that p53 signatures and STICs were are the precursors of ovarian carcinoma which in turn gave rise to metastatic lesionsand identify a. In one patient we identified a second STIC as a metastasis in the fallopian tube opposite from the affected ovary. These analyses revealed a window of seven years between the development of a STIC and the initiation of ovarian carcinomas, with development of metastases following rapidly thereafter. Our results provide insights into the etiology of ovarian cancer and have implications for the prevention, early detection and therapeutic intervention of this disease.

  Study EGAS00001002589

• Whole-Genome Sequencing Suggests Schizophrenia Risk Mechanisms in Humans with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome

  Chromosome 22q11.2 microdeletions impart a high but incomplete risk for schizophrenia. Possible mechanisms include genome-wide effects of DGCR8 haploinsufficiency. In a proof-of-principle study to assess the power of this model, we used high-quality, whole-genome sequencing of nine individuals with 22q11.2 deletions and extreme phenotypes (schizophrenia, or no psychotic disorder at age >50 years). The schizophrenia group had a greater burden of rare, damaging variants impacting protein-coding neurofunctional genes, including genes involved in neuron projection (nominal P = 0.02, joint burden of three variant types). Variants in the intact 22q11.2 region were not major contributors. Restricting to genes affected by a DGCR8 mechanism tended to amplify between-group differences. Damaging variants in highly conserved long intergenic noncoding RNA genes also were enriched in the schizophrenia group (nominal P = 0.04). The findings support the 22q11.2 deletion model as a threshold-lowering first hit for schizophrenia risk. If applied to a larger and thus better-powered cohort, this appears to be a promising approach to identify genome-wide rare variants in coding and noncoding sequence that perturb gene networks relevant to idiopathic schizophrenia. Similarly designed studies exploiting genetic models may prove useful to help delineate the genetic architecture of other complex phenotypes.

  Study EGAS00001002344

• UK10K RARE CHD

  In the UK10K project we propose a series of complementary genetic approaches to find new low frequency/rare variants contributing to disease phenotypes. These will be based on obtaining the genome wide sequence of 4000 samples from the TwinsUK and ALSPAC cohorts (at 6x sequence coverage), and the exome sequence (protein coding regions and related conserved sequence) of 6000 samples selected for extreme phenotypes. Our studies will focus primarily on cardiovascular-related quantitative traits, obesity and related metabolic traits, neurodevelopmental disorders and a limited number of extreme clinical phenotypes that will provide proof-of-concept for future familial trait sequencing. We will analyse directly quantitative traits in the cohorts and the selected traits in the extreme samples, and also use imputation down to 0.1% allele frequency to extend the analyses to further sample sets with genome wide genotype data. In each case we will investigate indels and larger structural variants as well as SNPs, and use statistical methods that combine rare variants in a locus or pathway as well as single-variant approaches. The CHD (congenital heart disease) samples will be part of the “rare disease” group, and will undergo exome sequencing.For further information with regard to this cohort please contact Shoumo Bhattacharya (shoumo@me.com).

  Study EGAS00001000125

• Exome sequencing of a novel cervical cancer cell line

  Human cancer cell lines are largely used in the searching for new antineoplastic agents. However, due to the artifacts of a long-term in culture, cell lines do not always represent the realistic tumor cell behavior. This has motivated the development of models that better mimetics the tumor tissue, among them, the establishment of primary cell cultures. In this work, we establish and characterized a low-passage cervix cancer cell line from a Brazilian patient with squamous cell carcinoma. The phenotype confirms the epithelial and tumor origin, through cytokeratins, EpCAM, and p16 staining. Whole exome sequencing showed relevant somatic mutations in several genes including BRCA2, TGFBR1, and IRX2 genes. CNV analysis by nanostring and WGS revealed amplification in genes related mainly with kinases proteins, involved in proliferation, migration and cell differentiation, such as EGFR, PIK3CA, and MAPK7. Overexpression of EGFR was confirmed by phospho RTK-array and western blot analysis. Furthermore, the cell was sensitivity to cisplatin, with IC50 13 times lower than SiHa cell line. In conclusion, this cervical cancer cell line presents molecular alterations that are an important tool for leading pre-clinical studies of new drugs that target one or more of the altered pathways.

  Study EGAS00001003343

• Summary statistics from genome-wide association study in glioma of 12,488 cases and 18,169 controls.

  Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have transformed our understanding of glioma susceptibility, but individual studies have had limited power to identify risk loci. We performed a meta-analysis of existing GWAS and two new GWAS, which totaled 12,488 cases and 18,169 controls. We identified five new loci for glioblastoma (GBM) at 1p31.3 (rs12752552; P = 2.04 × 10-9, odds ratio (OR) = 1.22), 11q14.1 (rs11233250; P = 9.95 × 10-10, OR = 1.24), 16p13.3 (rs2562152; P = 1.93 × 10-8, OR = 1.21), 16q12.1 (rs10852606; P = 1.29 × 10-11, OR = 1.18) and 22q13.1 (rs2235573; P = 1.76 × 10-10, OR = 1.15), as well as eight loci for non-GBM tumors at 1q32.1 (rs4252707; P = 3.34 × 10-9, OR = 1.19), 1q44 (rs12076373; P = 2.63 × 10-10, OR = 1.23), 2q33.3 (rs7572263; P = 2.18 × 10-10, OR = 1.20), 3p14.1 (rs11706832; P = 7.66 × 10-9, OR = 1.15), 10q24.33 (rs11598018; P = 3.39 × 10-8, OR = 1.14), 11q21 (rs7107785; P = 3.87 × 10-10, OR = 1.16), 14q12 (rs10131032; P = 5.07 × 10-11, OR = 1.33) and 16p13.3 (rs3751667; P = 2.61 × 10-9, OR = 1.18). These data substantiate that genetic susceptibility to GBM and non-GBM tumors are highly distinct, which likely reflects different etiology.

  Study EGAS00001003372

• Clonal selection and double hit events involving tumor suppressor genes underlie relapse from total therapy

  In order to gain insights into the mechanisms of disease progression in multiple myeloma (MM) patients treated with multi-agent and high-dose chemotherapy we have performed a longitudinal study of 33 patients entered into Total Therapy protocols using gene expression profiling, high resolution copy number analyses and whole exome sequencing. The results of this study show the importance of acquired mutations in MM driver genes, bi-allelic events affecting tumor suppressor genes and increased proliferation rates in driving relapse, which is enhanced by intra-clonal heterogeneity and Darwinian type clonal evolution. Branching was the most frequent evolution pattern, characterized by clonal loss and appearance of new clones. We found a higher number of lost and acquired copy number aberrations and an excess of bi-allelic inactivation of tumor suppressor genes in GEP70 high risk (HiR) cases, consistent with genomic instability being a key feature of HiR MM. In conclusion, our study further stresses the impact of known prognostic markers and driver genes on the fitness level of MM cells to survive multi-agent chemotherapy. The frequent bi-allelic loss of tumor suppressor genes in HiR cases and the potentially resulting failure of treatment with DNA damaging agents highlight the need for new therapies for HiR MM.

  Study EGAS00001001810

• UK10K OBESITY TWINSUK

  In the UK10K project we propose a series of complementary genetic approaches to find new low frequency/rare variants contributing to disease phenotypes. These will be based on obtaining the genome wide sequence of 4000 samples from the TwinsUK and ALSPAC cohorts (at 6x sequence coverage), and the exome sequence (protein coding regions and related conserved sequence) of 6000 samples selected for extreme phenotypes. Our studies will focus primarily on cardiovascular-related quantitative traits, obesity and related metabolic traits, neurodevelopmental disorders and a limited number of extreme clinical phenotypes that will provide proof-of-concept for future familial trait sequencing. We will analyse directly quantitative traits in the cohorts and the selected traits in the extreme samples, and also use imputation down to 0.1% allele frequency to extend the analyses to further sample sets with genome wide genotype data. In each case we will investigate indels and larger structural variants as well as SNPs, and use statistical methods that combine rare variants in a locus or pathway as well as single-variant approaches. These TwinsUK samples are a subset of the TwinsUK cohort samples with a BMI>=40 that will be exome sequenced by the Obesity group.

  Study EGAS00001000306

• This project aims to study human memory capacity, including short-term memory and long-term memory, systematically via genome-wide association studies

  Development of high-throughput genotyping platforms provides an opportunity to identify new genetic elements related to complex cognitive functions. Taking advantage of multi-level genomic analysis, here we studied the genetic basis of human short-term (STM, n=1,620) and long-term (LTM, n=1,526) memory functions. Heritability estimation based on single nucleotide polymorphism showed moderate heritability of short-term memory but very low heritability of long-term memory. In a two-step genome-wide association study, the markers rs13151012 and rs1558360 passed genome-wide significance (p < 5×10-8) in digit-span STM task and for the first principal component shared by two STM tasks; however, none of them survived the replication. In turn, we selected the ten most significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for replication tests. Among them, a SNP near ZFAT was significantly associated with STM performance in another independent population of 2,789; a polymorphism within BCAT2 was significantly associated with LTM in another independent population of 1,865. Furthermore, we performed a pathway analysis based on the current genomic data and found six pathways significantly associated with STM capacity and one pathway associated with LTM capacity.

  Study EGAS00001002875

• The Molecular Landscape of Asian Breast Cancers Reveals Clinically Relevant Population-Specific Differences

  Molecular profiles of breast cancer have contributed to an improved understanding of the disease, enabled development of molecular prognostic signatures to guide treatment decisions and unveiled new or more accurate therapeutic options for breast cancer patients. However, the extent to which differences in genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors influence molecular profiles in different populations remains poorly characterised, as relatively few large-scale molecular studies of breast tumours in non-Caucasian populations have hitherto been reported. Here, we present the molecular profiles of 560 Asian breast tumours and a comparative analysis of breast cancers arising in Asian and Caucasian women. Compared to the breast tumours in predominantly Caucasian women reported in TCGA and METABRIC, we show an increased prevalence of Her2-enriched molecular subtypes and higher prevalence of TP53 somatic mutations in ER+ Asian breast tumours. Using gene expression and immunohistochemistry, we observed elevated immune scores in Asian breast tumours, suggesting potential clinical response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Whilst Her2-subtype and enriched immune score are associated with improved survival, presence of TP53 somatic mutations is associated with poorer survival in ER+ tumours. Taken together, these population differences unveil new opportunities to improve the understanding of this disease and lay the foundation for precision medicine in different populations.

  Study EGAS00001004518

• Host whole genome variations are associated with neurocognitive outcome in survivors of pediatric medulloblastoma

  Host whole genome analysis is a promising source of predictive information for long-term morbidity in cancer survivors. However, studies on genetic predictors of long-term outcome, particularly neurocognitive function following chemoradiation in pediatric oncology are limited. In the present study, we evaluated variations in host whole genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their association with cognitive outcome. Whole-genome SNP analysis of host peripheral blood was conducted on 22 medulloblastoma long-term survivors, of whom 18 completed neuropsychological testing. First, unsupervised consensus clustering of the most variable SNPs within 409 genes involved in DNA repair was performed. Discrete variant groups were identified, although they were not associated with cognitive outcome, suggesting that variations in genes corresponding to a single functional group may be insufficient to predict long-term outcome alone. In support of this interpretation, unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis using disease-associated gene variants by cognitive impairment status yielded two distinct variant clusters comprised of 36 variants, 34 of which were in noncoding regions. These findings illustrate for the first time that cognitively impaired survivors have a distinct variant profile compared to other medulloblastoma survivors. Future research in larger cohorts is needed to validate host genome predictors of cognitive impairment that may impact clinical management.

  Study EGAS00001002996

• Whole genome, exome and transcriptome analysis to guide individualized cancer interpretation

  Study Design: The Cancer Alliance study was a collaboration of nine academic medical institutions in the New York city area and led by the New York Genome Center. Tumor-normal paired samples were submitted by the institutions for whole genome, whole exome and transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis at New York Genome Center. Relevant clinical histories were also collected. Raw sequence files were available to all collaborators. Variant call files were analyzed both manually by interpreters at NYGC and by IBM Watson Genome Analytics. This study was approved by a central institutional review board (IRB), Biomedical Research Alliance of New York, and by local IRBs, including Stony Brook University and Northwell Health. The study was supported in part by a grant from the IBM corporation (IBM Watson Health) to the New York Genome Center, New York Genome Center philanthropic funds and Rockefeller University grant # UL1TR000043 from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) program. The principal investigator Robert B. Darnell MD, PhD., is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator. Results: Pending Publication of Analysis of Study Conclusions: Pending Publication of Analysis of Study

  Study EGAS00001004013

• Comprehensive Genomic Characterization of Refractory Multiple Myeloma Reveals a Complex Mutational and Structural Landscape Associated with Drug Resistance (H067)

  Outcome of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) refractory to immunomodulatory agents (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs) is still very poor. To elucidate the genetic landscape of relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM) we performed whole genome and transcriptome sequencing of 39 heavily pretreated RRMM patients with at least double refractoriness revealing complex structural changes and a high mutational load (H067/K08K). We found a median of 67 structural variants and 116 nonsynonymous exonic mutations per patient. Assessment of oncogenic drivers showed NRAS, BRAF, TP53, KRAS, SLC4A7, FAM46C, DIS3, RB1, KMT2C, MLLT4, EWSR1, HCFC2, and COPS3 as significantly mutated. We found multiple genomic regions with bi-allelic events affecting known tumor suppressor genes, most frequently TP53, RB1, and TRAF3. Supervised analysis of mutational signatures showed a major contribution of Cosmic signature 6 associated with deficiency in DNA mismatch repair and the ‘BRCAness’ signature which coincided with mutations in genes known to confer PARP inhibitor sensitivity. Recurrently mutated gene networks included genes with relevance for PI and IMiD activity, the latter including in particular members of the Cereblon and the COP9 signalosome complex. In conclusion, this comprehensive genomic characterization revealed a complex mutational and structural landscape in RRMM and highlights potential implications for therapeutic strategies.

  Study EGAS00001004363

• The malaria-protective human glycophorin structural variant DUP4 shows somatic mosaicism and association with hemoglobin levels

  Glycophorin A and glycophorin B are red blood cell surface proteins that are both receptors for the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which is the principal cause of malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. DUP4 is a complex structural genomic variant that carries extra copies of a glycophorin A - glycophorin B fusion gene, and has a dramatic effect on malaria risk by reducing the risk of severe malaria by up to 40% Using fiber-FISH and Illumina sequencing, we validate the structural arrangement of the glycophorin locus in the DUP4 variant, and reveal somatic variation in copy number of the glycophorin A- glycophorin B fusion gene. By developing a simple, specific, PCR-based assay for DUP4 we show the DUP4 variant reaches a frequency of 13% in a malaria-endemic village in south-eastern Tanzania. We genotype a substantial proportion of that village and demonstrate an association of DUP4 genotype with hemoglobin levels, a phenotype related to malaria, using a family-based association test. Taken together, we show that DUP4 is a complex structural variant that may be susceptible to somatic variation, and show that it is associated with a malarial-related phenotype in a non-hospitalizedlongitudinally-followed population.

  Study EGAS00001003239

• The UVA-induced single-base mutational signature of CX5461 in human cells

  Drug-related UVA-induced photoreactions have been reported for several therapeutic compounds, including fluoroquinolones. CX5461 is a clinically relevant quinolone-derived anti-cancer small molecule with documented UVA-sensitising activity. Here we compared, by bulk and clonal whole genome sequencing (WGS) under light-protected conditions, the mutational signatures in human retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE1) exposed to UVA, CX5461, or co-exposed to UVA and CX5461. Treatment with CX5461 or UVA alone resulted in a low SNV burden and background-like mutational profiles. In contrast, bulk sequencing of human cells co-exposed to UVA and CX5461 had a markedly higher SNV burden characterized by T>A and T>C substitutions. Furthermore, single-cell clonal expansion and sequencing of CX5461 alone, UVA alone or CX5461+UVA treatments confirmed that the pattern was only observed when cells were exposed to both UVA and CX5461. The CX5461+UVA-associated SNV signature we report arises only when CX5461-treated cells are exposed to UVA, and is not observed when CX5461-treated cells are shielded from light. We do not observe strong single base mutagenic activity of CX5461 alone, under light protected conditions. Our data emphasise the need for appropriate controls and light-exposure precautions when studying base mutagenesis activity of known photosensitiser molecules.

  Study EGAS50000001145

• PSCP_bisulphite analysis in hESCs (2018-08-13)

  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 progeny. 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/ . This dataset contains all the data available for this study on 2018-08-13.

  Dataset EGAD00001004295

• Genomic evolution and transcriptional changes in the evolution of prostate cancer into neuroendocrine and ductal carcinoma types (RNAseq)

  Prostate cancer is typically of acinar adenocarcinoma type but can occasionally present as neuro-endocrine and/or ductal type carcinoma. These are associated with clinically aggressive disease and the former often arises on a background of androgen deprivation therapy, although it can al-so arise de novo. Two prostate cancer cases were sequenced by exome capture from archival tis-sue. Case 1 was de novo small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and ductal adenocarcinoma with 3 longitudinal samples over 5 years. Case 2 was a single time point after development of treatment related neuroendocrine prostate carcinoma. Case 1 showed whole genome doubling in all sam-ples and focal amplification of AR in all samples except the first time point. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a common ancestry for the ductal and small cell carcinoma. Case 2 showed 13q loss (involving RB1) in both adenocarcinoma and small cell carcinoma regions, and 3p gain, 4p loss, 17p loss (involving TP53) in the latter. By using highly curated samples, we demonstrate for the first time that small cell neuroendocrine and ductal prostatic carcinoma can have a common an-cestry and the process of evolution over time. We highlight whole genome doubling in a patient with prostate cancer relapse, reinforcing its poor prognostic nature.

  Study EGAS00001007428

• Patient-derived pediatric brain tumor organoids faithfully recapitulate primary tumors

  Extensive molecular analysis by many groups has revealed a heterogeneous landscape of embryonal brain tumors, including medulloblastoma (MB) and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (ATRT). MB, the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor, is comprised of four molecularly distinct subgroups: Wingless (WNT), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), Group 3 (G3), and Group 4 (G4). Among these, MB-SHH harboring MYCN amplification and TP53 mutation and MB-G3 with MYC overexpression or amplification constitute the most aggressive tumors, have the poorest clinical outcomes, and lack effective therapeutic options for recurrent disease. Here we describe the establishment of tumor organoid (TO) models from patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOX) of MYCN-amplified and TP53-mutant MB-SHH, MYC-amplified MB-G3 and two ATRT which all grew in mice when reimplanted into the cortices of naïve recipient animals (TOX). Methylation, bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing, and whole genome sequencing demonstrated that TOs and TOXs faithfully recapitulated the molecular landscape and heterogeneity of PDOXs and primary patient tumors compared to established cell lines. The development of TOs will facilitate in vitro high-throughput drug or CRISPR screens without the need for use tumor-bearing mice. This will also accelerate the identification and validation of new vulnerabilities and in vivo preclinical testing toward clinical trials.

  Study EGAS00001008305

• The Spatial Heterogeneity in Multiple Myeloma - from the Subclonal Architecture to the Immune Microenvironment (partly hipo_K08K)

  Multiple myeloma (MM) cells show pronounced heterogeneity not only within a given patient but also between spatially separated tumor loci in the bone marrow. Understanding this spatial heterogeneity is emerging as a critical challenge for the successful treatment of the disease. Yet, our understanding of spatial differences in the subclonal architecture, molecular signatures and interactions with the tumor microenvironment remains very limited. To address this shortcoming, we performed bulk and single-cell multi-region sequencing, including random bone marrow samples from the iliac crest and paired imaging-guided focal lesion specimens from 15 newly diagnosed MM patients. We found a median of 5 subclones per patient and unique subclones in focal lesions. Central features of spatial heterogeneity included a consistent down-regulation of the chemoattractant cytokines CXCL7 and CXCL12 in focal lesion tumor cells as well as a significant depletion of macrophages in the focal lesion microenvironment. In contrast, a site-specific expansion of T-cell clones was not detected in focal lesions. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the relevance of considering spatial heterogeneity with potential implications for immunotherapies and molecular studies analyzing the role of gene signatures and MM-microenvironment interactions in disease progression.

  Study EGAS00001006090

• Long-term organoid culture of a small intestinal neuroendocrine tumor rna-seq

  Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) are rare and highly heterogeneous neoplasms whose incidence has markedly increased over the last decades. A grading system based on the tumor cells' proliferation index predicts high-risk for G3 NETs. However, low-to-intermediate grade (G1/G2) NETs have an unpredictable clinical course that varies from indolent to highly malignant. Cultures of human cancer cells enable to perform functional perturbation analyses that are instrumental to enhance our understanding of cancer biology. To date, no tractable and reliable long-term culture of G1/G2 NET has been reported to permit disease modeling and pharmacological screens. Here, we report of the first long-term culture of a G2 metastatic small intestinal NET that preserves the main genetic drivers of the tumor and retains expression patterns of the endocrine cell lineage. Replicating the tissue, this long-term culture showed a low proliferation index, and yet it could be propagated continuously without dramatic changes in the karyotype. The model was readily available for pharmacological screens using targeted agents and as expected, showed low tumorigenic capacity in vivo. Overall, this is the first long-term culture of NETs to faithfully recapitulate many aspects of the original neuroendocrine tumor.

  Study EGAS00001007108

• Ewing and Ewing-like-sarcoma tumoroid biobank reveals distinct drug sensitivities: translocation makes the difference

  Ewing sarcoma (ES) and Ewing-like sarcomas (ELS) are highly aggressive tumors found in soft tissues and bone of mostly children and young adults. Despite being different in many aspects, including genetics, possible cell-of-origin, and pathology, patients with any of these entities all receive the same therapeutic regimen. Currently, there is a lack of preclinical cell models that can predict drug response of these entities in vitro. Here, we describe a pediatric ES and ELS tumor organoid (tumoroid) biobank containing tumoroids with different translocations, including EWSR1::FLI1, EWSR1::ERG, CIC::DUX4, and BCOR-rearrangements. Using histology, whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that these tumoroids retain key properties of their matching patient tumors. In addition, we traced tumor subclones in the tumoroids across patient-matched longitudinal samples, which showed that cellular heterogeneity was maintained. We subsequently performed drug screening on the tumoroid models, which unveiled entity-specific drug sensitivity to various cytotoxic compounds and targeted compounds, including MCL-1 inhibitors for CIC::DUX4 sarcomas. Taken together, this newly established ES and ELS patient-derived tumoroid biobank generates a unique source of material for future basic cancer research and drug-screening.

  Study EGAS00001007941

• Adult-type Granulosa Cell Tumour of the Ovary

  A recurrent mutation in FOXL2 (c.402C>G; p.C134W) is present in over 95% of adult-type granulosa cell tumours (AGCTs). In contrast, various loss-of-function mutations in FOXL2 lead to the development of blepharophimosis, ptosis and epicanthus inversus syndrome (BPES). BPES is characterized by an eyelid malformation often accompanied with primary ovarian insufficiency but not granulosa cell tumours. Two recent studies suggest that FOXL2 C402G is a gain or change-of-function mutation with altered DNA-binding specificity. Another study proposes that FOXL2 C402G is selectively targeted for degradation inducing somatic haploinsufficiency suggesting its role as a tumour suppressor. The latter study relies on data indicative of an FOXL2 allelic imbalance in AGCTs. Here we present RNA-seq data as genetic evidence that no real allelic imbalance is observed at the transcriptomic level in AGCTs. Additionally, there is no loss of protein expression in tumours harboring the mutated allele. These data and other features of this mutation as compared to other oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes argue strongly against FOXL2 being a tumour suppressor in this context. Given the likelihood that FOXL2 C402G is oncogenic, targeting the variant protein or its downstream consequences is the most viable path forward to identifying an effective treatment for this cancer.

  Study EGAS00001005414

• A recessive PRDM13 mutation results in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and cerebellar hypoplasia

  The PRDM13 (PR Domain containing 13) putative chromatin modifier and transcriptional regulator functions downstream of the transcription factor PTF1A, which controls GABAergic fate in the spinal cord and neurogenesis in the hypothalamus. Here, we report a novel, recessive syndrome associated with PRDM13 mutation. Patients exhibited intellectual disability, ataxia with cerebellar hypoplasia, scoliosis and delayed puberty with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). Expression studies revealed Prdm13/PRDM13 transcripts in the developing hypothalamus and cerebellum in mouse and human. An analysis of hypothalamus and cerebellum development in mice homozygous for a Prdm13 mutant allele revealed a significant reduction in the number of Kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons in the hypothalamus and PAX2+ progenitors emerging from the cerebellar ventricular zone. The latter was accompanied by ectopic expression of the glutamatergic lineage marker TLX3. Prdm13-deficient mice displayed cerebellar hypoplasia, normal gonadal structure, but delayed pubertal onset. Together, these findings identify PRDM13 as a critical regulator of GABAergic cell fate in the cerebellum and of hypothalamic kisspeptin neuron development, providing a mechanistic explanation for the co-occurrence of CHH and cerebellar hypoplasia in this syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence linking disrupted PRDM13-mediated regulation of Kiss1 neurons to CHH in humans.

  Study EGAS00001005878

• Hexanucleotide repeat expansions in C9orf72 alter microglial responses and prevent a coordinated glial reaction in ALS

  Neuroinflammation is an important hallmark in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Experimental evidence has highlighted a role of microglia in the modulation of motor neuron degeneration. However, the exact contribution of microglia to both sporadic and genetic forms of ALS is still unclear. We generated single nuclei profiles of spinal cord and motor cortex from sporadic and C9orf72 ALS patients, as well as controls. We particularly focused on the transcriptomic responses of both microglia and astrocytes. We confirmed that C9orf72 is highly expressed in microglia and shows a diminished expression in carriers of the hexanucleotide repeat expansion (HRE). This resulted in an impaired response to disease, with specific deficits in phagocytic and lysosomal transcriptional pathways. Astrocytes also displayed a dysregulated response in C9orf72 ALS patients, remaining in a homeostatic state. This suggests that C9orf72 HRE alters a coordinated glial response, which ultimately would increase the risk for developing ALS. Our results indicate that C9orf72 HRE results in a selective microglial loss-of-function, likely impairing microglial-astrocyte communication and preventing a global glial response. This is relevant as it indicates that sporadic and familial forms of ALS may present a different cellular substrate, which is of great importance for patient stratification and treatment.

  Study EGAS00001006711

• T cell landscape definition by multi-omics identifies galectin-9 as novel immunotherapy target in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

  Failure of immunotherapy after applying checkpoint inhibitors or CAR-T cells is linked to T cell exhaustion. Here, we explored the T cell landscape in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) by single-cell omics analyses of blood, bone marrow and lymph node samples of patients and spleen samples of a CLL mouse model. By single-cell RNA- sequencing, mass cytometry (CyTOF), and multiplex image analysis of tissue microarrays, we defined the spectrum of phenotypes and transcriptional programs of T cells and and their differentiation state trajectories. We identified disease-specific accumulation of distinct regulatory T cell subsets and T cells harboring an exhausted phenotype exclusively in the CLL lymph node tissue. Integration of TCR data revealed a clonal expansion of CD8+ precursor exhausted T cells, suggesting their reactivity for CLL cells. Interactome analyses identified the TIM3 ligand Galectin-9 as novel immunoregulatory molecule in CLL. Blocking of Galectin-9 in CLL-bearing mice slowed down disease development and reduced the number of TIM3 expressing T cells. Galectin-9 expression correlated with shorter survival of CLL patients. Thus, Galectin-9 contributes to immune escape in CLL and represents a novel target for immunotherapy.

  Study EGAS00001006864

• Long-term organoid culture of a small intestinal neuroendocrine tumor

  Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) are rare and highly heterogeneous neoplasms whose incidence has markedly increased over the last decades. A grading system based on the tumor cells' proliferation index predicts high-risk for G3 NETs. However, low-to-intermediate grade (G1/G2) NETs have an unpredictable clinical course that varies from indolent to highly malignant. Cultures of human cancer cells enable to perform functional perturbation analyses that are instrumental to enhance our understanding of cancer biology. To date, no tractable and reliable long-term culture of G1/G2 NET has been reported to permit disease modeling and pharmacological screens. Here, we report of the first long-term culture of a G2 metastatic small intestinal NET that preserves the main genetic drivers of the tumor and retains expression patterns of the endocrine cell lineage. Replicating the tissue, this long-term culture showed a low proliferation index, and yet it could be propagated continuously without dramatic changes in the karyotype. The model was readily available for pharmacological screens using targeted agents and as expected, showed low tumorigenic capacity in vivo. Overall, this is the first long-term culture of NETs to faithfully recapitulate many aspects of the original neuroendocrine tumor.

  Study EGAS00001007093

• Transcriptomics identifies blunted immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D in people with multiple sclerosis

  Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the immune effects of vitamin D in people with MS are not well understood. We analyzed transcriptomic datasets generated by RNA sequencing of immune cell subsets (CD4+, CD8+ T cells, B cells, monocytes) from 33 healthy controls and 33 untreated MS cases. We utilized a traditional bioinformatic pipeline and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to determine genes and pathways correlated with endogenous vitamin D. In controls, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells had 1079 and 1188 genes, respectively, whose expressions were correlated with plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D level (P<0.05). Functional enrichment analysis identified association with TNF-alpha and MAPK signaling. In CD4+ T cells of controls, vitamin D level was associated with expression levels of several genes proximal to multiple sclerosis risk loci (P=0.01). Genes differentially associated with endogenous vitamin D by case-control status were enriched in TNF-alpha signaling via NF-κB. WGCNA suggested a blunted response to vitamin D in cases relative to controls. Collectively, our findings provide further evidence for the immune effects of vitamin D, and demonstrate a differential immune response to vitamin D in cases relative to controls, highlighting a possible mechanism contributing to MS pathophysiology.

  Study EGAS00001007254

• Genomic evolution and transcriptional changes in the evolution of prostate cancer into neuroendocrine and ductal carcinoma types

  Prostate cancer is typically of acinar adenocarcinoma type but can occasionally present as neuro-endocrine and/or ductal type carcinoma. These are associated with clinically aggressive disease and the former often arises on a background of androgen deprivation therapy, although it can al-so arise de novo. Two prostate cancer cases were sequenced by exome capture from archival tis-sue. Case 1 was de novo small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and ductal adenocarcinoma with 3 longitudinal samples over 5 years. Case 2 was a single time point after development of treatment related neuroendocrine prostate carcinoma. Case 1 showed whole genome doubling in all sam-ples and focal amplification of AR in all samples except the first time point. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a common ancestry for the ductal and small cell carcinoma. Case 2 showed 13q loss (involving RB1) in both adenocarcinoma and small cell carcinoma regions, and 3p gain, 4p loss, 17p loss (involving TP53) in the latter. By using highly curated samples, we demonstrate for the first time that small cell neuroendocrine and ductal prostatic carcinoma can have a common an-cestry and the process of evolution over time. We highlight whole genome doubling in a patient with prostate cancer relapse, reinforcing its poor prognostic nature.

  Study EGAS00001007412

• Neutrophils and emergency granulopoiesis drive immune suppression and an extreme response endotype during sepsis

  This dataset contains raw sequencing files associated with the paper "Neutrophils and emergency granulopoiesis drive immune suppression and an extreme response endotype during sepsis" (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-023-01490-5). It is composed of two experiments, which are as follows: 1. Single-cell profiling of whole blood leukocytes: This experiment comprises sequencing files generated using the BD Rhapsody single-cell multi-omics profiling (RNA + protein) platform. This platform was used to profile the whole blood leukocyte population in a cohort of sepsis patients, cardiac surgery controls and healthy controls. There are 48 samples and four files per sample: two paired-end FASTQ files (R1 and R2) corresponding to the RNA-seq library, and two paired-end FASTQ files (R1 and R2) corresponding to the protein profiling (ADT-based AbSeq) library. 2. Single-cell profiling of circulating HSPCs: This experiment comprises sequencing files generated using the 10X single-cell multi-omics (RNA-seq + ATAC-seq) profiling platform. This platform was used to profile circulating HSPCs in a cohort of sepsis patients and healthy controls. There are 5 samples (or plexes), each of which consists of a pool of individuals for whom cells were multiplexed and sequenced as a single sample. There are four files per sample: two paired-end FASTQ files (R1 and R2) corresponding to the RNA-seq library, and two paired-end FASTQ files (R1 and R2) corresponding to the ATAC-seq library. Because these samples consists of multiplexed pools, index files are also provided. These can be used for sample deconvolution using the Cell Ranger pipeline. NOTE: Due to EGA's constrains in the number of files permitted per sample, index files (I1 and I2) for the HSPC data set are provided as a separate experiment named "FASTQ index files (I1 and I2) for deconvolution of 10X single-cell multiomics libraries".

  Dataset EGAD00001010927