6134 results for "canc*"

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• Hi-C analysis of patient-derived pancreas neoplasm organoids

  Pancreatic cancers arise from two different precursors; intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN), while biological differences in cancers originated from thme remain obscure. Here, we analyzed their three-dimensional genome structure by Hi-C using patient-derived organoids.

  Study JGAS000262

• Identification of biomarkers for prediction of efficacy of microtubule inhibitors and antifolates in non-small cell lung cancer

  Identification of predictive markers based on transcriptome modules for microtubule inhibitors of lung adenocarcinoma patients

  Study JGAS000267

• Target sequencing of 27 cancer-predisposing genes in Japanese colorectal cancer patients

  Background: National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recently recommended germline genetic testing for all pancreatic cancer patients. However, the genes targeted by genetic testing and the feasibility of selecting patients likely to carry pathogenic variants have not been sufficiently verified. The purpose of this study was to genetically characterize Japanese patients and examine whether the current guideline is applicable in this population. Methods: Using targeted sequencing, we analyzed the coding regions of 27 cancer-predisposing genes in 1,005 pancreatic cancer patients and 23,705 controls in Japan. We compared the pathogenic variant frequency between cases and controls and documented the demographic and clinical characteristics of carrier patients. We then examined if it was possible to use machine learning to predict carrier status based on those characteristics. Findings: We identified 205 pathogenic variants across the 27 genes. Pathogenic variants in BRCA2, ATM, and BRCA1 were significantly associated with pancreatic cancer. Characteristics associated with carrier status were inconsistent with previous investigations. Machine learning classifiers had a low performance in determining the carrier status of pancreatic cancer patients, while the same classifiers, when applied to breast cancer data as a positive control, had a higher performance that was comparable to that of the NCCN guideline. Interpretation: Our findings support the clinical significance of multigene panel testing for pancreatic cancer and indicate that at least 3.4% of Japanese patients may respond to poly (ADP ribose) polymerase inhibitor treatments. The difficulty in predicting carrier status suggests that offering germline genetic testing for all pancreatic cancer patients is reasonable.

  Study JGAS000346

• Genomic profiling identified ERCC2 helicase domain mutations respond to platinum-based neoadjuvant therapy in urothelial bladder cancer

  Genomic profiling of tumours enables therapeutic decisions, and identifying drug-matched mutations will prolong survival and prognosis. Here, we generated a custom panel for detecting genetic alterations in 19 patients with urothelial bladder cancer. This panel targeted 71 genes associated with urological cancer. Targeted sequencing was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissues. In this study, we revealed genome profiles and actionable mutations in patients with urothelial bladder cancer.

  Study JGAS000241

• Proteogenomic discovery of a novel class of cancer antigens by HLA ligandome analysis of colon cancer tissues

  CD8+ T cells recognize peptides displayed by HLA class I molecules on cell surfaces, monitoring pathological conditions such as cancer. Recent advances in proteogenomic analysis of HLA ligandomes have demonstrated that cells present a subset of cryptic peptides derived from non-coding regions of the genome; however, the roles of cryptic HLA ligands in tumor immunity remain unknown. In the present study, we comprehensively and quantitatively investigated the HLA class I ligandome of a set of human colorectal cancer (CRC) and matched normal tissues, showing that cryptic translation products account for a small fraction of the HLA class I ligandome and serve as antigens for patient T cell surveillance against colon cancer.

  Study JGAS000280

• Homozygous inactivation of CHEK2 is linked to a familial case of multiple primary lung cancer with accompanying cancers in other organs

  In clinical practice, there are a number of cancer patients with clear family histories, but not belonging to existing familial malignancies. Recent advances in genomic technologies have enhanced the possibility of identifying causative genes in such cases. Two siblings, an elder sister and a younger brother, were found to have multiple primary lung cancers at the age of 60. The former subsequently developed breast cancer, and had a history of myoma uteri. The latter had initially developed prostate cancer at the age of 59, and had a history of colon cancer. SNP genotyping revealed that approximately 10% of the genomes were homozygous in both patients. Exome sequencing revealed non-synonymous mutations in four genes in the runs of homozygosity: CHEK2, FCGRT, INPP5J, and SFI1. Evolutionary conservation of primary protein structures suggested the functional importance of the CHEK2 mutation, R474C. This mutation altered the tertiary structure of CHK2 by disrupting the salt bridge between R474 and E394. No such structural changes were observed with the other three mutated genes. Subsequent cell-based transfection analysis revealed that CHK2 R474C was unstable and scarcely activated. We concluded that CHEK2 is a causative gene in this case of familial cancer. Although homozygous inactivation of CHEK2 in mice led to cancers in multiple organs, accumulation of additional human cases is needed to establish its pathogenic role in humans.

  Study JGAS000057

• Whole-exome sequencing of Helicobacter pylori-uninfected normal gastric gland

  Recent studies showed that somatic mutations accumulate in normal tissues with age; however, mutation accumulation in the Helicobacter pylori-uninfected normal gastric mucosa has not been reported. A total of 18 biopsied gastric mucosa were obtained from nine subjects without Helicobacter pylori-infection or gastric cancer. Gastric epithelia were manually dissociated from the lamina propria. Subsequently, single glands were picked up under a stereomicroscope. Genomic DNA isolated from each gland was subjected to whole-exome sequencing.

  Study JGAS000313

• Global Architecture of anti-Tumor B-Cell Immunity against Gastric Cancer

  Recent successes in tumor immunotherapies have warranted the importance of tumor immunity. Compared to the T-cell immunity, B-cell immune system in cancer is largely elusive. Here we immunogenetically profiled tumor-infiltrating B-cell and T-cell repertoires for exome- characterized diffuse-type gastric carcinoma (DGC), which is remarkable for its B-cell infiltrations, unraveling previously un-defined architectures of B-cell immunity and its interplays with T-cell immunity in cancer. We also performed transcriptome analysis to enumerate the proportions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the gastric cancer environment .

  Study JGAS000141

• Development of the prevention and therapy of CRC using patient derived culture tissues.

  Tumor tissues consist of functionally heterogeneous cells including those with high clonogenic potential called cancer stem cells (CSCs) which produce differentiated non-tumorigenic progenies. Transplantation assays have been performed to identify cell surface markers in solid tumors including colorectal cancers, which identified several CSC markers such as CD133 and CD44. In addition to the transplantation, the lineage tracing of genetically labelling cells in animal models of cancer qhas been employed to explore the cellular heterogeneity of tumors by identifying the CSCs and its progenies. This approach is particularly useful to investigate solid tumors, where cellular proliferation and differentiation are controlled by niche factors and cell-cell contact with adjacent cells. Lineage tracing of mouse model of cancer unravel the mode of growth of autochthonous tumor in their native environment. In this study, we used patient derived organoids (PDO) established from surgically resected CRC patients to identify the CSC. Single cell RNA-seq analysis identified potential CRC markers, which may exhibit self-renewal activity and produce progenitors

  Study JGAS000139

• Whole exome sequence and transcliptomic analysis of tumor tissues with hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic liver cancer

  We used our pipeline to select neoepitopes with high immunogenicity from the tumor tissues of 46 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or metastasis of colorectal carcinoma by whole exome sequence and transcriptomic analysis with tumor tissue.

  Study JGAS000507

• Comprehensive genomic analysis of colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability

  Microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) colorectal cancers (CRCs) account for 10?15% of all CRCs. MSI-H CRC is characterized by a large number of somatic insertions/deletions (indels) resulting from either mutations within or the silencing of genes involved in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system. A subset of MSI-H CRCs is associated with Lynch syndrome (LS), which is caused by germline MMR gene mutations, leading to hereditary cancer predisposition. Other than frequent somatic mutations in BRAF, the transformation mechanisms underlying MSI-H CRC are largely unknown. Here, genomic DNA from 149 MSI-H CRC specimens was analyzed using whole-exome sequencing, and 93 of these samples were subjected to genome-wide DNA methylation analysis. Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on 111 samples. Genomic/epigenomic analyses identified three subgroups within our cohort: (1) MSI-H CRCs with silenced MLH1 that share frequent indels, a specific mutation/copy number alteration profile and promoter DNA methylation; (2) LS-associated MSI-H CRCs with MMR genes containing germline mutations; and (3) the remaining MSI-H CRCs with frequent somatic disruptive mutations of MLH1 or MSH2. Unexpectedly, only the first group was found to frequently carry fusion-type protein kinases (15% of this group and 9.9% of all MSI-H CRCs) that are promising therapeutic targets. Thus, MSI-H CRCs can be classified into three subgroups with distinctive genomic as well as epigenomic statuses, probably reflecting the oncogenic processes of these cancers. Fusion-type kinases are enriched in MSI-H CRCs, shedding new light on potential treatment strategies.

  Study JGAS000113

• Comprehensive molecular profiling for breast cancer patients and high-risk individuals.

  Although germ-line mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene are responsible for familial breast and ovarian cancer, the detailed mechanism of tumorigenesis is yet unknown. Here, we performed next-generation sequencing to determine the genomic profiles of familial breast cancer tumorigenesis. Target-capture sequencing of fresh-frozen or formalin-fixed-paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples of breast cancer or normal breast tissue were performed.

  Study JGAS000368

• Analysis of genes related to the oncogenesis, progression or effectiveness of drug therapies of urological tumors .

  To clarify the oncogenesis and the progression mechanism of urological tumors, we continuously collect tumor samples of our patients with high quality. Then we used them to comprehensive analyses such as genome sequencing or epi-genome sequencing. Through these analyses, we aim for elucidating the oncogenesis or for developing newly treatment strategies of each cancer.

  Study JGAS000564

• Whole genome sequencing analysis of colorectal cancers

  Whole genome sequencing analysis of colorectal cancers with MSI or MSS and their immuno-genomic features

  Study JGAS000157

• CAGE analysis for endometrial carcinoma

  For endometrial cancer patients, lymphadenectomy is recommended to exclude rarely metastasized cancer cells. This procedure is performed even in patients with low risk of recurrence despite the risk of complications such as lymphedema. A method to accurately identify cases with no lymph node metastases (LN-) before lymphadenectomy is therefore highly required. We approached this clinical problem by examining primary lesions of endometrial cancers with CAGE (Cap Analysis Gene Expression), which quantifies promoter-level expression across the genome. Fourteen profiles delineated distinct transcriptional networks between LN?+?and LN- cases, within those classified as having the low or intermediate risk of recurrence.

  Study JGAS000124

• Frequent post-treatment monitoring of colorectal cancer using individualized ctDNA validated by multi-regional molecular profiling

  Purpose: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis has been proposed as an approach for prediction of post-treatment patient outcomes. However, whether a single platform will provide optimal information in all patients or alternatively a patient-specific monitoring approach based on assessment of mutations in the primary tumor from that patient remains an urgent question. Experimental Design: We conducted multiregional sequencing of 42 specimens of 14 colorectal tumors (Stage III and more) from 12 patients, including two double cancer cases, to identify the full spectrum of mutational heterogeneity and identify aberrations that could be used to develop personalized ctDNA assays. Results: ?Founder? mutations that occur in all regions of the sample were identified in 12/14 (85.7%) tumors. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis of each tumor showed that 12/14 tumors (85.7%) carried at least one ?truncal? mutation. Most founder and truncal mutations exhibited higher variant allele frequency (VAF) than ?non-founder? and ?branch? mutations. In addition, both founder and truncal mutations were more likely to be detected as ctDNA than non-founder and branch mutations. Synchronized ctDNA dynamics of multiple mutations suggested those mutations from the same clonal origin. For 10/12 patients (83.3%) with nearly 1,000 days of post-operative observation, the validity of frequent personalized ctDNA monitoring was confirmed in terms of early relapse prediction, treatment efficacy, and non-relapse corroboration. Conclusions: Personalized ctDNA monitoring based on aberrations with a high VAF in the primary tumor site should be explored in larger prospective clinical trials to determine the full clinical validity.

  Study JGAS000243

• Target sequencing of 27 cancer-predisposing genes and 13 renal cell carcinoma-related genes in Japanese renal cell carcinoma patients

  Identifying causative genes via genetic testing is useful for the screening, prevention, and treatment of cancer. Several hereditary syndromes are known to occur in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, these evidences came from the European population; it remains unclear how the RCC-related genes and other cancer-predisposing genes contribute to the development RCC in the Japanese population. A case-control study of 14 RCC-related genes and 26 cancer-predisposing genes was performed using 1,563 Japanese patients with RCC and 6,016 controls. Patients were divided into two major histological subtypes of clear cell RCC (ccRCC) or non-clear cell RCC (nccRCC). Gene-based analysis of germline pathogenic variants in patients with each subtype and cancer-free subjects was performed. Following quality control, 1,532 patients with RCC and 5,996 controls were further analyzed. For ccRCC, 52 of 1,283 (4.05%) patients carried pathogenic variants mainly in the cancer-predisposing genes such as TP53 (P = 1.73 �� 10-4; OR, 5.8; 95% CI, 2.2���15.7). Approximately 80% of patients with pathogenic variants in TP53 had p.Ala189Val that was specific in East Asian population. For nccRCC, 14 of 249 (5.62%) patients carried pathogenic variants mainly in the RCC-related genes such as BAP1 (P = 6.27 �� 10-5; OR, Inf; 95% CI, 10.0���Inf), and FH (P = 6.27 �� 10-5; OR, Inf; 95% CI, 10.0���Inf). Our study showed different and population-specific contributions of risk genes between ccRCC and nccRCC in Japanese for better-personalized medicine.

  Study JGAS000414

• Identification of responsible genes and development of standardized medicine for familial breast cancer by genetic analysis with NGS technology

  Aims: To clarify risk of germline variants of known causal genes for Hereditary Breast Ovarian Cancer Syndrome in Japan by combinatorial analysis of somatic and germline variants in the breast cancer tissue. Methods: Target caputure analysis by using Illumina HiSeq 2000; the panel genes are 119 genes including 30 HBOC known causal genes. Participants/Materials: 108 whole blood and 124 primary tumor samples from familial breast cancer patients.

  Study JGAS000224

• The genetic analysis of circulating tumor DNA in blood of the digestive cancer patients to investigate the prognostic factors of metastasis and reccurence.

  A Darwinian evolutionary shift occurred early in the neutral evolution of advanced colorectal carcinoma (CRC) and copy number aberrations (CNA) were essential in the transition from adenoma to carcinoma. Subsequent to the primary evolution, we now focus on the evolutionary principle of the genome to foster postoperative recurrence of CRC. SO, We compared CNA, single nucleotide variance (SNV), RNA sequences between 8 primary and 11 metastatic sites from 10 CRCR cases.

  Study JGAS000221

• 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

• Identifying aberrant splicing isoforms and potential neoantigens in non-small cell lung cancer

  To identify aberrant splicing isoforms and potential neoantigens, we performed full-length cDNA sequencing of seven non-small cell lung cancer specimens using a long-read sequencer MinION. We detected aberrant splicing isoforms using our bioinformatics pipeline and constructed a comprehensive catalogue.

  Study JGAS000245

• Genomic Profiling Reveals Heterogeneous Populations of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

  Whole Exome Sequencing(WES) and copy number variation(CNV) analysis were performed using breast samples collected from non-invasive breast cancer patients in order to analysis of somatic mutations related to breast tumor phenotypes.

  Study JGAS000202

• Identification of genetic mutations characteristic for recurrence and metastasis of gastric cancer.

  We collected the cancerous tissues of the primary and recurrence tumors from the same patient with recurrent / metastatic gastric cancer, and the purpose of this study is to find the characteristics of recurrent / metastatic gastric cancers by carrying out a "molecular profiling", mainly the exome sequence analysis of these tissues.

  Study JGAS000086

• Global Architecture of anti-Tumor B-Cell Immunity against Gastric Cancer

  Recent successes in tumor immunotherapies have warranted the importance of tumor immunity. Compared to the T-cell immunity, B-cell immune system in cancer is largely elusive. Here we immunogenetically profiled tumor-infiltrating B-cell and T-cell repertoires for exome- characterized diffuse-type gastric carcinoma (DGC), which is remarkable for its B-cell infiltrations, unraveling previously un-defined architectures of B-cell immunity and its interplays with T-cell immunity in cancer. We also performed transcriptome analysis to enumerate the proportions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the gastric cancer environment .

  Study JGAS000103

• Intractable Cancer Therapy Development through a New Target Identification by Molecular Profiling

  We collected the cancerous tissues of the primary and recurrence tumors from the same patient with recurrent / metastatic breast cancer, and the purpose of this study is to find the characteristics of recurrent / metastatic breast cancers by carrying out a "molecular profiling", mainly the exome sequence analysis of these tissues.

  Study JGAS000075

• Comprehensive molecular profiling of subsequent solid cancers after allogenic hematopoietic cell transplantation

  Subsequent solid cancers after allogenic hematopoietic cell transplantation may have unique genomic profiles compared with de novo cancers. In order to identify such profiles, we applied whole exome sequencing (WES) of subsequent solid cancers after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation as well as de novo cancers.

  Study JGAS000377

• exploration of biomarkers in colorectal cancer

  Targeted therapies based on the molecular and histological features of cancer types are becoming standard practice. To understand the molecular basis of colorectal cancer, we performed CAGE (Cap Analysis of Gene Expression) to quantify promoter activities on 45 colorectal cancers.

  Study JGAS000489

• Development of actionable molecular targets and/or biomarkers for prognostication and patient stratification in gynecological cancer based on whole-exome sequencing and epigenomic analysis

  We collected 187 samples of normal and primary tumor tissues in 69 cases of endometrial carcinoma. The purpose of this study is to develop actionable molecular targets and/or biomarkers for prognostication and patient stratification.

  Study JGAS000174

• Comprehensive analyses of genetic aberrations in cholangiolocarcinoma

  The nature of CLC is still unclear and its pathological classification still remains controversial. To clarify the positioning of CLC among primary liver cancers, and to find characteristics that could distinguish CLC from other liver cancers.

  Study JGAS000597

• Semibulk RNA-seq analysis as a convenient method for measuring gene expression statuses in a local cellular environment

  For two cases of breast cancers, semibulk RNA-seq and single cell RNA-seq were performed.

  Study JGAS000387

• Research for biological features by gene expression analysis and biomarkers at diagnosis/therapeutics in lung cancer

  WGS, WES, ATAC-seq and methylation analysis with DNA harvested from lung cancer organoids established from surgery, biopsy, pleural effusion, sputum and blood samples of patients. RNA-seq analysis with RNA harvested from lung cancer organoids established from surgery, biopsy, pleural effusion, sputum and blood samples of patients.

  Study JGAS000609

• Targeted sequencing of cell free DNA samples from oligometastatic colorectal cancer patients

  In order to discover specific mutations that correlate with prognosis, target sequencing was performed using cell-free DNA samples from oligometastatic colorectal cancer patients.

  Study JGAS000196

• CAGE analysis for non-small cell lung carcinoma

  Targeted therapies based on the molecular and histological features of cancer types are becoming standard practice. The most effective regimen in lung cancers is different between squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AD). Therefore a precise diagnosis is crucial, but this has been difficult, particularly for poorly differentiated SCC (PDSCC) and AD without a lepidic growth component (non-lepidic AD). Biomarkers enabling a precise diagnosis are therefore urgently needed.To achieve this goal, we performed CAGE (Cap Analysis of Gene Expression) to quantify promoter activities on 97 frozen tissues from surgically resected lung cancers (22 SCC and 75 AD). The result was followed up by by immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) in an independent group.

  Study JGAS000070

• Whole-genome sequencing on hepatocellular carcinoma with nodule-in-nodule appearance reveals stepwise cancer evolution

  We examined five cases with hypovascular early HCC with hypervascular foci, so-called nodule-in-nodule HCC. Multiregional sampling was performed from both the inner hypervascular region and outer hypovascular region, together with noncancerous liver tissue and lymphocytes as controls. Comprehensive analysis of genomic aberrations, such as single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and structural variations (STVs), was performed by whole-genome sequencing.

  Study JGAS000190

• Integrated Exome and RNA Sequencing of Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma

  Multiomics analysis of rare cancers to identify genetic alterations related with pathogenesis and prognosis. To identification of genetics alterations of Dedifferentiated liposarcoma, DNAs and RNAs were extracted from dedifferentiated liposarcoma and paired non-cancer (normal) tissues. NGS libaraies were prepared by using Agilent SureSelect XT Human All Exon V5 + IncRNA kit for whole exome sequencing (WES) and TruSeq Stranded mRNA Prep kit or TruSeq RNA Access Library Prep kit (RNA seq). Sequencing was perfomred by Illumina HiSeq 2500.

  Study JGAS000177

• Defined Lifestyle and Germline Factors Predispose Asian Populations to Gastric Cancer

  Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality throughout the world, with the highest incidence in east-Asia. Although the somatic genetics of GC has extensively been characterized by recent advances in cancer genome sequencing, the germline and environmental effects on GC and their ethnic differences have poorly been understood. Here, we performed genomic scale trans-ethnic analysis of 531 GC cases (319 Asian and 212 non-Asians), by integrating east-Asian and public GC datasets. There is one distinct GC subclass with clear alcohol-associated mutation signature and strong Asian specificity, and almost all the cases in the subclass are attributable to alcohol intake behavior, smoking habit, and Asian-specific ALDH2 defective allele. Alcohol-related GCs have low mutation burden and a characteristic immune profile of increased B-cell infiltration into the tumor area in relation to cancer cell-intrinsic CXCL13 chemokine expression. In addition to germline variants of genes involved in BRCA pathways, we found frequent (7.4%) germline CDH1 variants among Japanese GCs. Most of them were attributed to a few recurrent SNVs shared by both Japanese and Koreans, suggesting the existence of common ancestral events and widespread distributions of these pathogenic variants among east-Asian populations. Specifically, approximately one-fifth of diffuse-type GCs were attributable to the combination of alcohol intake and defective-ALDH2 allele or to germline CDH1 variants. These results revealed uncharacterized impacts of germline variants and their interplays with lifestyles in the high incidence areas.

  Study JGAS000228

• ATAC-seq and ChIP-seq analysis of patient-derived normal pancreas and pancreas neoplasm organoids

  Pancreatic cancers arise from two different precursors; intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN), while biological differences in cancers originated from them remain obscure. Here, we analyzed their epigenomic landscape by ATAC-seq and ChIP-seq using patient-derived organoids.

  Study JGAS000264

• Development of blood-based biomarkers for precision medicine in castration-resistant prostate cancer

  Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing is emerging as a tool for cancer precision medicine. However, little is known about the clinical significance of low-frequency variants detected in circulating cell-free tumor DNA (ctDNA) from castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients. We conducted targeted sequencing of cfDNA and paired leukocyte DNA from CRPC patients using molecular barcodes, and ctDNA variants with a variant allele frequency ??? 0.1% were detected using an in-house pipeline.

  Study JGAS000330

• Comprehensive analyses of clinicopathological features and genomic mutations of combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma

  Combined hepatocellular and cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) is a rare primary liver cancer. We performed whole exome sequencing to clarify the relationship between genetic mutations and clinicopathological features in cHCC-CCA.

  Study JGAS000599

• Molecular Profiling and Sequential Somatic Mutation Shift in Hypermutator Tumors Harboring POLE Mutations

  Defective DNA polymerase ? (POLE) proofreading leads to extensive somatic mutations that exhibits biased mutational properties; however, the characteristics of POLE-mutated tumors remain unclear. In present study, we described a molecular profile using whole exome sequencing based on the transition of somatic mutations in 10 POLE-mutated solid tumors that obtained from 2,42 Japanese patients. The bias of accumulated variations in this mutant was quantified to follow a pattern of somatic mutations, thereby classifying the sequential mutation shift into three periods. During the period prior to occurrence of the aberrant POLE, no accumulation of mutations in cancer-related genes was observed, whereas PTEN was highly mutated in conjunction with or subsequent to the event, suggesting that POLE and PTEN mutations were responsible for the development of POLE-mutated tumors. Furthermore, homologous recombination was restored after occurring PTEN mutations. Our strategy for estimation of the footprint of somatic mutations may provide new insight toward the understanding of mutation-driven tumorigenesis.

  Study JGAS000130

• Immuno-genomic Profiling of Biopsy Specimens Predicts Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

  Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most aggressive cancers and is primarily treated with platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Some ESCCs respond well to NAC. However, biomarkers to predict NAC sensitivity and their response mechanism in ESCC remain unclear. We introduce a model by machine learning and validated its potential to predict the NAC response in ESCC. To create this model, we performed whole genome sequencing and RNA-seq analysis on totally 141 ESCC biopsy specimens before NAC treatment and analyzed their immuno-genomic features and association with NAC response. Neutrophils infiltration could play an important role in ESCC response to NAC. We also demonstrated that specific copy number alterations and copy number signatures in the ESCC genome were significantly associated with NAC response. The interactions between the tumor genome and immune features of ESCC are likely to be a new indicator of therapeutic capability and a new therapeutic target for ESCC, and machine learning prediction for NAC response is useful.

  Study JGAS000535

• Germline pathogenic variant and gastric cancer risk

  Germline pathogenic variants in some genes have been suggested to be associated with gastric cancer risk, although large-scale evaluations were limited. Herein, we analyzed germline variants in 27 cancer-predisposing genes in 10,426 gastric cancer patients and 38,153 controls from BioBank Japan. Following quality control of sequencing data, samples from 10,366 gastric cancer patients and 37,592 controls were further analyzed. We evaluated the association between pathogenic variants and gastric cancer risk and explored the characteristics of the pathogenic-variant carrier. Nine genes were associated with gastric cancer risk. The germline pathogenic variant carriers showed different clinical and demographic characteristics.

  Study JGAS000592

• Integrated copy number and expression analysis identifies profiles of whole-arm chromosomal alterations and subgroups with favorable outcome in ovarian clear cell carcinomas

  Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (CCC) is generally associated with chemoresistance and poor clinical outcome, even with early diagnosis; whereas high-grade serous carcinomas (SCs) and endometrioid carcinomas (ECs) are commonly chemosensitive at advanced stages. Although an integrated genomic analysis of SC has been performed, conclusive views on copy number and expression profiles for CCC are still limited. In this study, we performed single nucleotide polymorphism arrays in 57 (31 CCCs, 14 SCs, and 12 ECs) and expression microarrays in 55 epithelial ovarian cancers (25 CCCs, 16 SCs, and 14 ECs), and then evaluated PIK3CA mutations and ARID1A expression in CCCs. SNP array analysis classified 13% of CCCs into a cluster with high frequency and focal range of copy number alterations (CNAs), significantly lower than for SCs (93%, P < 0.01) and ECs (50%, P = 0.017). The ratio of whole-arm to all CNAs was higher in CCCs (46.9%) than SCs (21.7%) (P < 0.0001). SCs with loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of BRCA1 (85%) also had LOH of NF1 and TP53, and LOH of BRCA2 (62%) coexisted with LOH of RB1 and TP53. Microarray analysis classified CCCs into three clusters. One cluster (CCC-2, n = 10) showed more favorable prognosis than the others (CCC-1and CCC-3) (P = 0.041). Coexistent alterations of PIK3CA and ARID1A were more common in CCC-1 and CCC-3 (7/11, 64%) than in CCC-2 (0/10, 0%) (P < 0.01). Being in cluster CCC-2 was an independent favorable prognostic factor in CCC. In conclusion, CCC was characterized by a high ratio of whole-arm CNAs; whereas CNAs in SC were mainly focal, but preferentially caused LOH of well-known tumor suppressor genes. As such, expression profiles might be useful for sub-classification of CCC, and might provide useful information on prognosis.

  Study JGAS000022

• The RNA, ChIP and whole exome sequencing analysis of human colorectal cancer organoids and normal colon organoids treated with (+)-JQ1

  To reveal the mechanism of anti-tumor effect of (+)-JQ1, we performed RNA, ChIP and whole exome sequencing using human colorectal cancer and normal colon organoids.

  Study JGAS000378

• Establishment of xenogfafts and cultured cell lines from clinical samples

  The purpose of the present study was to clarify the presence or absence of alterations in the molecular properties of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) with up to eight passages in endometrial carcinomas. Alterations in the proportion of immunohistochemically positive/negative cells for PAX8, estrogen receptor, PAX2, and PTEN were observed in established PDXs of endometrioid carcinomas and carcinosarcomas, whereas proportions of cells with AE1/AE3, TP53, ARID1A PMS2, and MSH6 were maintained. Variants of cancer-associated genes in PDX compared to those in the parental tumors were examined in two cases, a frameshift deletion in BRCA1 was observed in the parental tumor tissue, and additional genomic alterations were found in the PDXs of this case. Genomic and phenotypic alterations in endometrial carcinoma PDXs relative to the parental tumors were observed and were partly associated with endometrial cancer-specific characteristics in cellular differentiation and gene mutations.

  Study JGAS000585

• Efficient prediction of a spatial transcriptomics profile better characterizes breast cancer tissue sections without costly experimentation

  Spatial transcriptomics is an emerging technology requiring costly reagents and considerable skills, limiting the identification of transcriptional markers related to histology. Here, we show that predicted spatial gene-expressions in unmeasured regions and tissues can enhance biologists��� histological interpretations. We developed the Deep learning model for Spatial gene Clusters and Expression, DeepSpaCE and confirmed its performance using the spatial-transcriptome profiles and immunohistochemistry images of consecutive human breast cancer tissue sections. For example, the predicted expression patterns of SPARC, an invasion marker, highlighted a small tumor-invasion region that is difficult to identify using raw data of spatial transcriptome alone because of a lack of measurements. We further developed semi-supervised DeepSpaCE using unlabeled histology images and increased the imputation accuracy of consecutive sections, enhancing applicability for a small sample size. Our method enables users to derive hidden histological characters via spatial transcriptome and gene annotations, leading to accelerated biological discoveries without additional experiments.

  Study JGAS000290

• Analysis of genomic alterations in dedifferentiated liposarcoma

  Multiomics analysis of rare cancers to identify genetic alterations related with pathogenesis and prognosis. To identification of genetics alterations of Dedifferentiated liposarcoma, DNAs and RNAs were extracted from dedifferentiated liposarcoma and paired non-cancer (normal) tissues. NGS libaraies were prepared by using Agilent SureSelect XT Human All Exon V5 + IncRNA kit for whole exome sequencing (WES) and TruSeq Stranded mRNA Prep kit or TruSeq RNA Access Library Prep kit (RNA seq). Sequencing was perfomred by Illumina HiSeq 2500.

  Study JGAS000182

• Genome sequencing of biliary tract cancers

  Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are clinically and pathologically heterogeneous with poor response to treatments. Genomic profiling can offer a clearer understanding of their carcinogenesis, classification and treatment strategy. We performed genome sequencing analyses for a large scale samples of BTCs to investigate their somatic and germline driver events and characterize their genomic landscape.

  Study JGAS000109

• Comprehensive assay for the molecular profiling of cancer by target enrichment from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens

  Tumor molecular profiling is becoming a standard of care for patients with cancer, but the optimal platform for cancer sequencing remains undetermined. We established a comprehensive assay, the Todai OncoPanel (TOP), which consists of DNA and RNA hybridization capture-based next-generation sequencing panels. A novel method for target enrichment, named the junction capture method, was developed for the RNA panel to accurately and cost-effectively detect 365 fusion genes as well as aberrantly spliced transcripts. The TOP RNA panel can also measure the expression profiles of an additional 109 genes. The TOP DNA panel was developed to detect single nucleotide variants and insertions/deletions for 464 genes, to calculate tumor mutation burden and microsatellite instability status, and to infer chromosomal copy number. Clinically relevant somatic mutations were identified in 32.2% (59/183) of patients by prospective TOP testing, signifying the clinical utility of TOP for providing personalized medicine to cancer patients.

  Study JGAS000164

• Research of factors related to diagnosis, progression, prognosis and treatment of hepato-biliary-pancreatic malignancies

  Advanced cancers with metastasis and/or recurrence are usually resistant and refractory to treatment. In our studies, whole exome sequencing analysis, comprehensive epigenetic analysis and genome-wide expression analysis were performed using cancerous and non-cancerous tissues derived from multicentric cohort study of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of the studies is identification of the refractoriness-related deriver genes for application to novel molecular targeted therapy and preventive medicine. The studies are intended for refractory HCC. High frequency of the tumor recurrence even after curative resection is one of the major difficulties in the treatment of HCC. According to our previous studies, not the recurrence itself, but the recurrence pattern has critical effects on prognosis of the patient with HCC. Then, we analyzed the cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of primary HCC on the point of the recurrence patterns in accordance with or without Milan criteria. The materials were obtained from thirty three patients underwent curative hepatectomy for HCC at Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital. Written informed consent from these patients, as well as the institutional review board approved was obtained. The determination of the refractory HCC group (16 cases) was based on the point of the recurrence patterns in accordance with Milan criteria for the recurrent tumor (solitary <5cm, or up to 3 nodules <3 cm, without major vascular invasion or distant metastasis) that has been proposed as the useful criteria of the liver transplantation for HCC. The cellular DNA was extracted from the cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of primary HCC by the phenol-chloroform method. After SNP certification using Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 (Affymetrix), whole exome sequencing was performed at the Cancer Institute of JFCR, as the support infrastructure. Exome sequencing was performed using HiSeq 2000 (Illumina), and the obtained reads were mapped to the human reference genome (hg19) using BWA software. GATK software was used for local realignment base call recalibration. Single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and indels were analyzed by MuTect and SomaticIndelDetector, as well as visual confirmation by IGV software.

  Study JGAS000052

• Research on the identification of cancer stem cells for peidatric and adult malignancies.

  In recent years, "cancer stem cells" have been reported to exist in many cancers. Many reports have shown that they are the main cause of cancer recurrence. The aim of this study is to test whether cancer stem cells can be identified using patient samples. We will perform omics analysis of rare pediatric cancers by integrating genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, including somatic and germline mutations, to deepen our understanding of the biological characteristics of the target disease. Based on the knowledge gained and clinical information from patients, we will conduct preclinical pharmacological studies using mouse models and in vitro models to investigate the therapeutic effects of novel therapeutic agents and novel therapeutic strategies such as cellular therapies.

  Study JGAS000623

• Immunogenomic analysis of tumor infiltrating B cells in gastric cancer

  Despite the accumulating evidences of the significance of humoral cancer immunity, its molecular mechanisms have largely remained elusive. This study aimed at profiling the global picture of the humoral cancer immunity in view of immune repertoire characteristics of tumor-infiltrating B cells. In this study, we investigated B-cell repertoire (BCR) / immunoglobulin (Ig) sequencing of tumor infiltrating B cells in 102 clinical gastric cancers. First, total RNAs were extracted from frozen gastric cancer tissues and corresponding normal gastric mucosa; then, BCR/Ig repertoires of tumor-infiltrating B cells were amplified by target PCR using multiplex primer sets available from iRepertoire(R), inc. Subsequent next-generation sequencing data obtained by the Illumina platform were aligned onto human BCR/Ig repertoire sequence. This dataset contains the repertoire sequencing data of 102 gastric cancer cases analyzed in this study.

  Study JGAS000242

• Sequence analysis of colorectal serrated lesions

  Recent studies have shown that colorectal serrated lesions, which include sessile serrated adenomas (SSAs) and traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs), are precursors of colorectal cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the carcinogenesis, particularly in TSAs, remain largely uncharacterized. To clarify their molecular and clinicopathological characteristics, we performed mutation and methylation analyses of cancer-associated genes in 78 serrated lesions, including TSAs, SSAs and microvesicular hyperplastic polyps. Target exon sequence analysis was performed with 39 genes, including genes known to be frequently mutated in colorectal cancers and/or serrated lesions. We also used bisulfite pyrosequencing to assess the methylation status of various cancer-associated genes and marker genes of the CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP). The prevalence of mutations in genes associated with Wnt signaling was significantly higher in TSAs than SSAs (65% vs. 28%, p < 0.01). Among those, RNF43 mutations were observed in 38% of TSAs and 17% of SSAs. In immunohistochemical studies of 39 serrated lesions, the prevalence of abnormal nuclear ?-catenin accumulation was significantly higher in TSAs (57%) than SSAs (8%) (P = 0.01). SMOC1 methylation was detected in 54% of TSAs but in no SSAs (p < 0.01). Additionally, SMOC1 methylation was more prevalent among TSAs with KRAS mutation (82%) than with BRAF mutation (38%, p = 0.03). Lesions with CIMP-high or RNF43 mutations were detected only in TSAs with BRAF mutation, suggesting two distinct carcinogenic pathways in TSAs. Mutations in genes associated with Wnt signaling play a greater role in the carcinogenesis of TSAs than SSAs.

  Study JGAS000217

• Genetic analysis of non-small cell lung cancer patients and PDX tumor harboring driver gene alteration

  Genetic analysis of non-small cell lung cancer patients and PDX tumors with EGFR mutation, ALK fusion, ROS1 fusion, etc.

  Study JGAS000413

• comprehensive genetic analysis and database construction for head and neck cancer

  The main purpose is to conduct comprehensive genetic analysis of head and neck malignant tumor tissue and patient-derived blood, and to construct a database for it. By analyzing these databases, we aim to clinically identify recurrence and metastasis prediction markers and establish new molecular target therapies.

  Study JGAS000214

• Comprehensive molecular and clinicopathological profiling of lung adenocarcinoma in Japanese never or light smokers

  Studies have yet to characterize the differences in molecular profiles of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) among divergent ethnic groups. Herein, we conducted comprehensive molecular profiling of LUAD in never or light smokers from Asia in order to discover novel targetable mutations and prognostic biomarkers of this distinct disease entity. Methods: We analyzed 996 cases of Asian LUAD, and performed whole-exome sequencing and/or RNA-seq in 125 cases of Asian LUAD negative for the driver oncogenes defined by conventional laboratory testing. We also investigated the clinical and pathological characteristics among the 996 cases. Results: Driver oncogenes were identified in 88 cases (70.4%) with specific hotspot mutations differing from those in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) study. Clustering based on mRNA expression profiles, but not genetic mutational ones, could predict patient prognosis. The risk score generated by the expression of a three-gene set was a strong prognostic marker for overall survival and progression-free survival in our cohort, and was further validated using TCGA cohort. Among the 996 cases, each driver alteration is distributed across all histological subtypes. Adenocarcinoma in situ was identified to harbor driver mutations, suggesting that these alterations are early events in the pathogenesis of LUAD. This study indicates the value of applying gene expression profiling for predicting the prognosis after a surgical operation, and that the identification of actionable mutations is important for optimizing targeted drugs in Japanese LUAD.

  Study JGAS000215

• Treg cell subset-specific gene expression patterns in human head and neck cancer

  Backgrand: The occurrence of head and neck cancer has been increased all over the world. Although the prognosis has been improved by using several treatment modalities including immunotherapy, it is still unsatisfying. It is still unclear why the immunotherapy is effective only for partial amount of patients. To resolve this problem and to make a new treatment strategy based on human immune system, further investigation of antitumor immunity is required. Regulatory T (Treg) cells play critical roles in human immune responses including antitumor immunity. Therefore, the research to elucidate Treg function is strongly urged to clarify the mechanisms of antitumor immunity.Methods: We performed RNA-seuencing analysis of regulatory T cells infiltrating head and neck cancer. We devided into four populations, DP, CD25+, CTLA4+, DN and analyzed gene expressions.Results: The gene expression patterns of Treg-related genes were different between CD25+ cells and CD25- cells. Furthermore, DP cells had unique gene expression pattern compared to other populations.Conclusions: We found Treg cells infiltrating head and neck cancer had high expression levels of Treg-related genes and DP cells had unique gene expression pattern that may become a target of new treatment strategy.Regulatory T (Treg) cells play critical roles in human immune responses including antitumor immunity. Therefore, the research to elucidate Treg function is strongly urged to clarify the mechanisms of antitumor immunity.

  Study JGAS000135

• Genomics characterization of primary central nervous system lymphoma

  Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare malignancy confined to the central nervous system (CNS). Despite low tendency of systemic dissemination, its prognosis is poor with median overall survival of 2?4 years. Due to its rarity, knowledge of genomic alterations underling PCNSL pathogenesis is severely limited. Here we performed whole-exome sequencing on 44 PCNSL and paired normal specimens, revealing high penetrance of nonsynonymous somatic mutations in PIM1 (95.5%), BTG2 (88.6%) and MYD88 (81.8%). Interestingly we found oncogenic mutations in GRB2, and this effect was cancelled when transformed cells are treated with inhibitors to downstream kinases MAP2K1/2. Further, when tumor cells carries MYD88 mutations, the same mutations were also found at low frequency in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC), implying that MYD88 mutation?positive precancerous cells originate outside CNS and develop to lymphoma with additional genetic hits that fit the CNS environment.

  Study JGAS000021

• Target sequencing of 8 hereditary prostate cancer genes in Japanese

  We performed a case control association study for variants in coding regions of 8 hereditary prostate cancer genes in 7,636 male unselected prostate cancer patients, 12,366 male controls of Japanese ancestry. The 8 genes were ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, BRIP1, CHEK2, HOXB13, NBN, and PALB2.

  Study JGAS000203

• Whole exome sequencing of uterine adenomyosis

  Uterine adenomyosis, defined by proliferation of the ectopic endometrial glands in myometrium, is a common benign uterine disorder that significantly impairs the quality of life of the women it affects. Adenomyosis lesions have chronic inflammatory reactions as well as cancer-like features such as invasive capacity into the normal myometrium. In contrast to endometriosis and leiomyoma, the genomic characterization of adenomyosis has yet to be reported. We conducted high-coverage whole exome sequencing analyses of freshly frozen adenomyosis samples, as well as co-occurring leiomyoma. Our WES analyses showed that adenomyosis is a clonal disorder with somatic mutations.

  Study JGAS000169

• 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

• The characterization of gene expression pattern of anticancer agent-resistant cancer stem cells using RNA sequencing analysis.

  Slow cycling cancer stem cells persist and contribute to tumor regrowth after chemotherapy.To investigate this mechanism, we developed stemness- and cell cycle-visualized colon cancer organoids from patient tissues, and perfomed comparative transcriptome analysis using sorted rapid cycling stem cells (LGR5+p27-) and slow cycling stem cells (LGR5+p27+). In addition, we analyzed the changes in the gene expression patterns in the slow cycling stem cells and all of tumor cells after chemotherapy (camptothecin) treatment. Gene ontology analysis and gene set enrichment analysis using these transcriptome data revealed cell adhesion signal and YAP siganling pathway were important to maintain the dormancy and resume propagation after chemotherapy. In each experiments, total RNA was extracted from organoids and sequenced with HiSeq X Ten (Illumina).

  Study JGAS000350

• Durable clinical impacts and mechanisms of action and resistance in histone K27 methylation-targeting epigenetic therapy

  Epigenomes allow the rectification of disordered cancer gene expressions, thereby providing new targets for pharmacological interventions in cancer therapy. The clinical utility of targeting histone H3 lysine tri-methylation (H3K27me3) as an epigenetic hallmark has been demonstrated. However, in actual therapeutic settings, the mechanism by which H3K27me3-targeting therapies exert their effects and the response of tumor cells remain unclear. Here we show the potency and mechanisms of action and resistance of a newly developed EZH1/2 dual inhibitor, valemetostat, in the clinical trials of patients with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL). Valemetostat administration reduced the tumor size and demonstrated durable clinical benefits. Integrative single-cell analyses of patients before and after the administration of valemetostat showed that valemetostat abolishes the highly condensed chromatin structure formed by the plastic H3K27me3 and neutralizes multiple gene loci, such as tumor suppressor genes. Nevertheless, subsequent long-term treatment encounters the emergence of resistant clones with reconstructed aggregate chromatin that closely resemble the pre-dose state. The acquired mutations at the EZH2���compound interface result in the propagation of the clones with re-increased H3K27me3. In patients free of this mutation, TET2 mutation or elevated DNMT3A expression causes similar chromatin recondensation through de novo DNA methylation at the H3K27me3-associated regions. We identified subpopulations with distinct metabolic and gene translation characteristics implicated in primary susceptibility until the acquisition of the heritable (epi)mutations. Targeting chromatin homeostasis might provide opportunities for further sustained epigenetic cancer therapies.

  Study JGAS000553

• Whole exome sequencing of colorectal cancer

  To elucidate immune status of solid tumors including gastrointenstinal cancer, we performed whole exome sequencing of colorectal cancer 7 patients.

  Study JGAS000279

• Research for biological features by gene expression analysis and biomarkers at diagnosis/therapeutics in lung cancer

  WGS, WES, ATAC-seq and methylation analysis with DNA harvested from lung cancer organoids established from surgery, biopsy, pleural effusion, sputum and blood samples of patients. RNA-seq analysis with RNA harvested from lung cancer organoids established from surgery, biopsy, pleural effusion, sputum and blood samples of patients.

  Study JGAS000557

• Mutational anysis of breast cancer stem cells

  Exome sequences of breast cancer have been investigated for many patients. Recently it has been shown that there are intra-heterogeneity in tumor tissues. When the tumor cells were sequenced in bulk condition, only the major populations��� (clones���) mutations will be detected. Based on cancer stem theory, each populations��� cells are derived from each cancer stem cells, which their numbers are not so different among different clones. Here, we separated cancer cells into cancer stem cells and non-cancer stem cells exploiting cancer stem cell specific surface markers. By comping two groups��� mutation, we identified mutations, which were only detected in stem cell population. These mutations could be the mutations in cells of small size populations, and maybe the important mutations to understand the heterogeneity of tumor tissues, progression, and/or prediction for the outcome to therapies.

  Study JGAS000304

• Target sequencing of 11 hereditary breast cancer genes in Japanese

  We performed a case control association study for variants in coding regions of 11 hereditary breast cancer genes in 7,051 female unselected breast cancer patients, 11,241 female controls, 53 male patients, and 12,490 male controls of Japanese ancestry. The 11 genes were ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, CHEK2, NBN, NF1, PALB2, PTEN, STK11, and TP53.

  Study JGAS000140

• Whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing of patient-derived pancreas neoplasm organoids

  Pancreatic cancers arise from two different precursors; intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN), while biological differences in cancers originated from them remain obscure. Here, we analyzed their genomic and transcriptomic landscapes using patient-derived organoids.

  Study JGAS000263

• Comprehensive analyses of genetic aberrations in gastroenterological tumors

  Intestinal metaplasia (IM) is a risk factor of gastric cancer in gastric mucosa with Helicobacter pylori infection. To explore the susceptibility to the cancer development in pure gastric IM, we investigated landscape of genetic alterations in gastric single-glands with IM.

  Study JGAS000269

• Whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing of cervical cancer

  We designed this study to identify molecular markers involved in the development and prognosis of cervical adenocarcinoma. In this study, we would like to elucidate the molecular biological characteristics of cervical adenocarcinoma in relation to the carcinogenesis of other cervical cancers (squamous cell carcinoma), vaginal and vulvar cancers. In addition, some squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix develop at a young age and have a poor prognosis. Furthermore, small cell carcinoma of the cervix also progresses rapidly and has a poor prognosis, making the establishment of diagnostic and therapeutic methods an urgent task.

  Study JGAS000582

• Immunohistochemical and molecular pathological search in gastrointestinal tumors

  Purpose: RSPO fusions are recently identified recurrent genetic alterations in colorectal cancer (CRC), which lead to WNT pathway activation and are potential therapeutic targets. We aimed to investigate the clinicopathological and molecular features of RSPO fusion-positive CRCs.Experimental Design: We screened 1019 CRCs for RSPO fusions using multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. RSPO fusion-positive tumors were characterized for their clinicopathological features and subjected to whole exome sequencing (WES).Results: Our analysis identified 29 CRCs with RSPO fusions (2.8%), consisting of 5 with an EIF3E-RSPO2 fusion and 24 with PTPRK-RSPO3 fusions. The patients were 17 females and 12 males with the median age of 64 years. Thirteen tumors were located in the right colon, 8 were in the left colon, and 8 were in the rectum. Histologically, most of the tumors (24/29, 83%) were classified as adenocarcinomas, not otherwise specified. However, about half of the tumors (13/29, 45%) had a focal or extensive mucinous component, which is significantly more frequent compared with RSPO fusion-negative tumors (13%; p = 8.1 �� 10-7). Four tumors (14%) were mismatch repair-deficient, three of which were associated with MLH1 promoter methylation. WES identified KRAS, BRAF, and NRAS mutations in a total of 27 cases (93%). In contrast, pathogenic mutations in major WNT pathway genes other than RSPO fusions were virtually absent. The presence of an RSPO fusion tended to show shorter overall and recurrence-free survivals in stage II and III patients although the differences were not significant.Conclusions: RSPO fusion-positive CRCs constitute a rare subgroup of CRCs with several characteristic clinicopathological and genetic features. The mutual exclusivity with other WNT pathway gene alterations supports RSPO fusions as valid therapeutic targets in CRC.

  Study JGAS000538

• Defined Lifestyle and Germline Factors Predispose Asian Populations to Gastric Cancer

  Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality throughout the world, with the highest incidence in east-Asia. Although the somatic genetics of GC has extensively been characterized by recent advances in cancer genome sequencing, the germline and environmental effects on GC and their ethnic differences have poorly been understood. Here, we performed genomic scale trans-ethnic analysis of 531 GC cases (319 Asian and 212 non-Asians), by integrating east-Asian and public GC datasets. There is one distinct GC subclass with clear alcohol-associated mutation signature and strong Asian specificity, and almost all the cases in the subclass are attributable to alcohol intake behavior, smoking habit, and Asian-specific ALDH2 defective allele. Alcohol-related GCs have low mutation burden and a characteristic immune profile of increased B-cell infiltration into the tumor area in relation to cancer cell-intrinsic CXCL13 chemokine expression. In addition to germline variants of genes involved in BRCA pathways, we found frequent (7.4%) germline CDH1 variants among Japanese GCs. Most of them were attributed to a few recurrent SNVs shared by both Japanese and Koreans, suggesting the existence of common ancestral events and widespread distributions of these pathogenic variants among east-Asian populations. Specifically, approximately one-fifth of diffuse-type GCs were attributable to the combination of alcohol intake and defective-ALDH2 allele or to germline CDH1 variants. These results revealed uncharacterized impacts of germline variants and their interplays with lifestyles in the high incidence areas.

  Study JGAS000229

• High-coverage whole exome sequence in non-TRU-type lung adenocarcinomas

  In order to elucidate the key genetic events in non-TRU-type lung cancer, we selected 43 non-TRU-type lung adenocarcinomas and performed a whole exome sequence and RNA-seq analysis using a next-generation sequencer. The results of the analysis identified mutations in TP53, KRAS and NKX2-1 as the top three significantly mutated genes, while the EGFR mutation was rare in this cohort. Eight NKX2-1 mutations (5 frameshift, 2 nonsense, and one missense) were identified, with one case harboring two distinct NKX2-1 mutations (missense and frameshift). All NKX2-1 mutants were transcriptionally inactive in reporter assays. Histologically, invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas accounted for most of the NKX2-1 mutations (5 cases), while 1 enteric and 1 acinar adenocarcinoma harbored the NKX2-1 mutation.

  Study JGAS000105

• Whole genome analysis of liver cancer by long-read sequencing

  Aberrant integration of Hepatitis B virus DNA promotes major restructuring of human hepatocellular carcinoma genome architecture

  Study JGAS000361

• Single cell RNA seq of breast cancer stem cells

  RNA sequences of breast cancer have been investigated for many patients. Recently it has been shown that there are intra-heterogeneity in tumor tissues. When the tumor cells were sequenced in bulk condition, only the major populations' mRNA will be detected. With respect to breast cancer, it has been also reported that cancer cells can sub-gropued into cancer stem cells and non-cancer stem cells. Although the mRNA expressions' difference between this two groups has been profoundly investigated, whether each group is composed by unique cell or not is yet to be elucidated. Since cancer stem cells are the thought to be the major contributor of metastasis and/or recurrence, we focused on cancer stem cells in this study. We separated cancer cells into cancer stem cells and non-cancer stem cells exploiting cancer stem cell specific surface markers. Thereafter, we sequenced mRNA of cancer stem cells in single cell resolution. From this result, we examined whether these cells can be sub-grouped or not.

  Study JGAS000305

• Long-read methylation analysis of breast cancer using the enzymatic base conversion and the nanopore sequencing

  Long-read methylation analysis by a nanopore sequnecer PromethION was performed using breast samples collected from breast cacner patients.

  Study JGAS000265

• Analytical study of protein function and RNA expression involved in predicting treatment efficacy and adverse event development in lung cancer radiotherapy.

  The purpose of this study is to elucidate the functions of DNA repair proteins and RNA expression that are involved in the therapeutic efficacy and adverse events of radiotherapy for lung cancer at our hospital. In particular, this is an exploratory study to identify proteins and RNAs involved in the expression of proteins that are likely to be involved in the prediction of radiotherapy response and adverse events.

  Study JGAS000545

• WGS analysis of Japanese liver cancer

  Liver cancer is prevalent worldwide, mainly associated with virus infection, and its underlying etiology and genomic structure are heterogeneous. Here we provide a whole-genome landscape of somatic alterations in 300 Japanese liver cancers. Our comprehensive analysis elucidated point mutations in non-coding regions, structural variants (SVs), and virus integrations, in addition to coding mutations, and demonstrated new mutational signatures related with liver carcinogenesis, novel recurrently mutated coding and non-coding regions such as lincRNA NEAT1/MALAT1, promoters, CTCF binding sites, and regulatory regions. SV analysis found a significant association with replication timing, and revealed that known cancer genes (CDKN2A, CCND1, APC, and TERT) and new cancer genes (ASH1L, NCOR1, MACROD2) were recurrently affected by SVs, leading to altered expression of nearby genes. These results emphasize the value of whole genome sequencing analysis to discover cancer driver mutations and to understand comprehensive molecular profiles of liver cancer, especially for SVs and non-coding mutations.

  Study JGAS000151

• CRISPR-screening identifies mechanisms of resistance to KRASG12C and SHP2 inhibitor combinations in non-small cell lung cancer

  Although KRASG12C inhibitors show clinical activity in patients with KRAS G12C mutated NSCLC and other solid tumor malignancies, response is limited by multiple mechanisms of resistance. The KRASG12C inhibitor JDQ443 shows enhanced preclinical antitumor activity combined with the SHP2 inhibitor TNO155, and the combination is currently under clinical evaluation. To identify rational combination strategies that could help overcome or prevent some types of resistance, we evaluated the duration of tumor responses to JDQ443 �� TNO155, alone or combined with the PI3K�� inhibitor alpelisib and/or the CDK4/6 inhibitor ribociclib, in xenograft models derived from a KRASG12C-mutant NSCLC line and investigated the genetic mechanisms associated with loss of response to combined KRASG12C/SHP2 inhibition.

  Study JGAS000643

• Sequencing cancer mutations in various types of lung cancer using the long-read, portable sequencer

  In this study, we used a long-read and portable sequencer MinION to identify cancer mutations in lung adenocarcinoma cells. We performed cDNA amplicon sequencing for various types of mutations such as point mutations in EGFR and KRAS and oncogenic fusion transcripts in ALK and RET. Using the long reads of MinION, we also conducted mutation phasing of EGFR TKI-sensitive and resistant mutations, which would provide useful information to next thrapeutic approaches for cancers. We applied this method to identify mutation genotypes of eight clinical samples from Japanese lung adenocarcinomas. This method could provide new sequencing-based diagnostic approaches for lung cancers. Additinally we also performed cancer mutation identification of risk-dependent unique samples. Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is a risk factor for lung carcinogenesis. This study was performed to characterize mutagenesis and mutational target genes underlying lung carcinogenesis in patients with UIP.We performed whole exome sequencing of lung adenocarcinoma with usual interstitial pneumonia.

  Study JGAS000065

• Project for Development of Innovative Research on Cancer Therapeutics;Shuttle system between petient-derived xenograft and ex vivo culture for innovative platform of evaluating drug sensitivity.

  We developed CTOS (cancer tissue-originated spheroid) panel covering diversity among patients for colorectal cancer, lung cancer and cervical small cell carcinoma. We then carried out exome sequence analysis of tumor tissues, cell lines and CTOS derived from patients to validate qualitative changes in preparation, culture, cell line, transplantation and passage of CTOS pathologically, biochemically, molecular biologically.

  Study JGAS000089

• Project for Development of Innovative Research on Cancer Therapeutics; Identifiying the predictive factors for response to chemoherapy in ovarian cancer

  To identify novel predictive biomarkers of response to chemotherapy for clear cell carcinoma of the ovary

  Study JGAS000076

• Development of molecular targeted therapy for small cell lung cancer by comprehensive genome analysis

  Aims: Identifying new therapeutic targets of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), genome-wide mutation analysis has been performed.Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed or methanol-fixed tissue samples. 71 Mb of DNA fragments containing whole coding exons were concentrated using SureSelect Human All Exon V4+UTRs Kit (Agilent Technologies) followed by 100-bp paired end sequencing by HiSeq 2000 (Illumina).Participants/Materials: 51 of 1042 cases of pathologically diagnosed small seen lung cancer that were registered to National Cancer Hospital East Lung Cancer Database in 1992-2012, and which surgically resected or biopsy samples were suitable for DNA extraction for further analyses.

  Study JGAS000037

• Genomic features of Helicobacter pylori-na��ve diffuse-type gastric cancer.

  Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a major etiologic driver of diffuse-type gastric cancer (DGC).However, improvements in hygiene have led to an increase in the prevalence of HP-na��ve DGC;that is, DGC that occurs independent of HP. Although multiple genomic cohort studies forgastric cancer have been conducted, including studies for DGC, distinctive genomic differencesbetween HP-exposed and HP-na��ve DGC remain largely unknown. Here, we employed exomeand RNA sequencing with immunohistochemical analyses to perform binary comparisonsbetween 36 HP-exposed and 27 HP-na��ve DGCs from sporadic, early-stage, and intramucosal orsubmucosal tumor samples. Among the samples, 33 HP-exposed and 17 HP-na��ve samples hadbeen preserved as fresh-frozen samples. HP infection status was determined using stringentcriteria. HP-exposed DGCs exhibited an increased single nucleotide variant burden (HP-exposed DGCs; 1.97 [0.48���7.19] and HP-na��ve DGCs; 1.09 [0.38���3.68] per megabase;p=0.0003) and a higher prevalence of chromosome arm-level aneuploidies (p&lt;0.0001). CDH1was mutated at similar frequencies in both groups, whereas RHOA���ARHGAP pathwaymisregulation was exclusive to HP-exposed DGCs (p=0.0167). HP-exposed DGCs showedgains in chromosome arms 8p/8q (p&lt;0.0001), 7p (p=0.0035) and 7q (p=0.0354), and losses in16q (p=0.0167). Immunohistochemical analyses revealed a higher expression of intestinalmarkers such as CD10 (p&lt;0.0001) and CDX2 (p=0.0002) and a lower expression of the gastricmarker, MUC5AC (p=0.0305) among HP-exposed DGCs. HP-na��ve DGCs, on the other hand,had a purely gastric marker phenotype. This work reveals that HP-na��ve and HP-exposed DGCsdevelop along different molecular pathways, which provide a basis for early detection strategiesin high incidence settings.

  Study JGAS000575

• Establishment of an integrated database for clinical and genomic data in cancer

  In this study, to clarify the genomic varieties of MM in Asian population, we planned to investigate the genomic features in Japanese population, represented as an Asian cohort, and preformed the comprehensive genomic analysis of MM cells with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) by means of targeted capture sequencing (TCS) method. In our TCS assay, MM cells are subjected to the detection of following genomic abnormalities; IG rearrangements, IG associated translocations, CNAs, and somatic mutations from 340 genes related to the pathogenesis and therapeutic agent of MM.

  Study JGAS000206

• Geriatric Oncology Database of genotypes and methylation, gene expression, clinical data, and survey results on psychosocial and physical conditions in Japanese elderly cancer patients to establish truly effective treatment strategy

  Owing to the advent of super-aged society, cancer mortality in Japan is forecasted to become an all-time high. The management of elderly patients with cancer is a serious health issue and the need for specific care guidelines for this population is critical in Japan. The significant individual differences in comorbidity, physical and mental functioning, and social problems among aging individuals are obstacles to the progress. The response to cancer treatment varies significantly among patients, even in the same stage of the same type of cancer. Older aged patients are still less likely to be offered participation in clinical trials, thus the number of clinical evidences is limited. The molecular mechanisms regulating the physiological process of ageing and senescence, and cancer are far from understood. To establish a truly effective treatment algorithm, we attempted to develop a geriatric oncology database for genotypes and methylation, gene expression, clinical data, and survey results on psychosocial and physical conditions in Japanese elderly cancer patients in this retrospective study. The genomic analysis was performed in 62, 106, and 173 cases, respectively for gastric, colon and lung cancers. The clinical data and survey results on psychosocial and physical conditions were collected from 166, 313, and 344 patients respectively for gastric, colon and lung cancers, and also collected from 357, 49, and 300 benign cases respectively for cardiovascular disorder, respiratory dysfunction, diabetes and nephropathy as the analysis control.

  Study JGAS000061

• Impact of germline pathogenic variants in 27 cancer-predisposing genes on the risk of lymphoma

  The application of advanced molecular technology has significantly expanded lymphoma classification, allowing risk stratification and treatment optimization. Limited evidence suggests the presence of a genetic predisposition in lymphoma, indicating the potential for better individualized clinical management based on a novel lymphoma classification. Herein, we examined the impact of germline pathogenic variants in 27 cancer-predisposing genes with lymphoma risk and explored the clinical characteristics of pathogenic variant carriers. This study included 2,066 lymphoma patients and 38,153 cancer-free controls from the Japanese population. Following quality control of sequencing data, samples from 1,982 lymphoma patients and 37,592 controls were further analyzed. Sequencing data of controls were obtained from JGAD000721. Germline pathogenic variants in some cancer-predisposing genes were associated with a high risk of lymphoma. Furthermore, germline pathogenic variants in these genes were especially associated with the higher risk of a certain subtype. These results would provide novel insights concerning monogenic form into lymphoma classification. Some lymphoma patients may benefit from surveillance and targeted treatment like other neoplasms.

  Study JGAS000347

• Ten colorectal cancer patients with locally advanced primary tumors who underwent primary tumor resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).

  BackgroundWe aim to investigate the utility of serial gene mutation tracking for locally advanced CRC in those who underwent curative resection following neoadjuvant chemotherapy.MethodsWe prospectively collected 10 locally advanced CRC cases for which curative resection was performed following preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Tissues from the primary tumour, distant metastatic tumours, and blood plasma were obtained during serial treatment. Comprehensive mutation analysis of 47 cancer-associated genes was performed using a pre-designed gene panel and next-generation sequencing.ResultsAll cases showed a partial response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and pathological R0 resection was accomplished. In primary tumours, non-synonymous mutations were detected at between 1 and 14 sites before chemotherapy and at between 1 and 2 sites after. Founder mutations were precisely detected in blood plasma and metastatic tumours during longitudinal treatment.ConclusionsSerial mutational analysis indicated that subclonal selection occurs during chemotherapy and that plasma can substitute for tumourous tissue in mutational analysis for drug selection and treatment decisions.

  Study JGAS000222

• Systematic identification of long non-coding RNAs potentially involved in gastrointestinal carncer

  Recent work has suggested various important functions and molecular mechanisms for long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and they are also thought to play critical roles in cancer. However the importance of lncRNAs in cancer biology is still unclear. In this study, we aim to comprehensively identify novel lncRNAs that are critically involved in tumorigenesis and progression in gastrointestinal cancer.

  Study JGAS000011

• Identification of driver oncogenes in scirrhous-type gastric cancer cell lines

  Scirrhous type gastric cancer (SGC) is one of the most intractable cancer subtypes in human, and its therapeutic targets have been rarely identified to date. Exploration of somatic mutations in the SGC genome with the next generation sequencers has been hampered by low tumor contents by the markedly increased fibrous tissues. Thus, SGC cell lines may be useful resources to search for novel oncogenes in. Here we have conducted whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing on two SGC cell lines, OCUM-8 and OCUM-9. Interestingly, most of the mutations thus identified have not been reported. In OCUM-8 cells, a novel CD44-IGF1R fusion gene is discovered, the protein product of which ligates the amino-terminus of CD44 to the transmembrane and the tyrosine-kinase domains of IGF1R. Further, both of CD44 and IGF1R are markedly amplified in the OCUM-8 genome and abundantly expressed. CD44-IGF1R has a transforming ability, and the suppression of its kinase activity leads to rapid cell death of OCUM-8. On the other hand, OCUM-9 seems to possess multiple oncogenic events in its genome. The MET gene is highly amplified, and the treatment of OCUM-9 with crizotinib, a MET inhibitor, results in cell death. Further, a novel BORCS5-ETV6 fusion gene is identified in the OCUM-9 genome. BORCS5-ETV6 possesses oncogenic activity, and suppression of its message partially inhibits cell growth. Prevalence of these novel fusion genes among SGC awaits further investigation, but we validate the significance of cell lines as appropriate reagents for detailed genomic analyses of SGC.

  Study JGAS000179

• Analysis of chromosomal background of cancerous mutations using a long-read sequencer

  In our previous study detecting cancerous complex SVs, we performed whole-genome sequencing of lung cancer clinical samples using PromethION. In this study, its depth and quality was substantially enriched and we conducted the phasing analysis in human lung cancer genomes. In addition, long read and short read RNA-seq was performed for transcriptome analysis.

  Study JGAS000349

• Genome and gene analysis of gastrointestinal cancer and elucidation of its clinicopathological significance

  <html>Cancer develops through the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic aberrations. To identify sequential molecular alterations that occur during the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we molecularly compared 52 early and 108 overt HCC samples by genome sequencing. Gene mutations in the p53/RB1 pathway, WNT pathway, <i>MLLs</i>, SWI/SNF complexes, and AKT/PI3K pathway were common in HCC. In the early phase of all entities,<i> TERT</i> was the most frequently upregulated gene owing to diverse mechanisms. Despite frequent somatic mutations in driver genes, including <i>CTNNB1</i> and <i>TP53</i>, early HCC was a separate molecular entity from overt HCC as each had a distinct expression profile. Notably, WNT target genes were not activated in early HCC, regardless of <i>CTNNB1</i> mutation status, because ?-catenin did not translocate into the nucleus due to the E-Cadherin/?-catenin complex at the membrane. Conversely, WNT targets were definitively upregulated in overt HCC with <i>CTNNB1</i> mutation associated with downregulation of <i>CDH1</i> and hypomethylation of CpG islands in the target genes. Similarly, cell cycle genes downstream of the p53/RB pathway were upregulated only in overt HCC with <i>TP53</i> and/or <i>RB1</i> gene mutations associated with chromosomal deletion of 4q and/or 16q. Differing from the expression profile, HCC was epigenetically distinguished into four subclasses: normal-like methylation, global-hypomethylation (favorable prognosis), stem-like methylation (poor prognosis), and CpG island methylation. These methylation statuses were globally maintained through HCC progression. Taken together, additional molecular events besides driver gene mutations cooperatively contribute to transcriptional activation of downstream targets as HCC progresses, according to the methylation status of the associated genes.</html>

  Study JGAS000233

• Identification of the genes associated with EGFR-mutant lung cancer

  To gain an insight into the genetic factors underlying the carcinogenesis of EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, we sequenced the exomes in peripheral-blood DNA from the patients.

  Study JGAS000129

• Whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing of cervical cancer

  We designed this study to identify molecular markers involved in the development and prognosis of cervical adenocarcinoma. In this study, we would like to elucidate the molecular biological characteristics of cervical adenocarcinoma in relation to the carcinogenesis of other cervical cancers (squamous cell carcinoma), vaginal and vulvar cancers. In addition, some squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix develop at a young age and have a poor prognosis. Furthermore, small cell carcinoma of the cervix also progresses rapidly and has a poor prognosis, making the establishment of diagnostic and therapeutic methods an urgent task.

  Study JGAS000586

• Loss of presentation of estimated neoantigens from mutated genes in ctDNA was essential for fostering primary to recurrent tumors in postoperative colorectal cancer cases

  Specific parameters regarding mutations at primary sites for the detection of postoperative recurrence using circulating tumor (ct)DNA liquid biopsy are lacking. In the current retrospective study, we conducted target resequencing of ctDNA using 47 plasma samples and established a cancer panel carrying the commonly mutated genes between primary and recurrent tumors. We found that mutated genes in ctDNA indicated immune-resistance traits with respect to the impaired ability to present neoantigens by loss of expression or binding affinity to HLA in the primary tumor. Compared with the estimated neoantigens from all mutated genes in primary tumors, the neoantigen peptides from commonly mutated genes between primary and recurrent tumors showed abundant and significant expression with no binding affinity to HLA. Therefore, ctDNA mutations can be frequently and postoperatively detected to identify recurrence; however, these mutated genes were derived from immune-tolerated clones owing to the loss of neoantigen presentation in primary CRC tumors.

  Study JGAS000549

• BHD-associated kidney cancer

  BackgroundBirt-Hogg-Dub? (BHD) syndrome is a hereditary kidney cancer syndrome, which predisposes patients to develop kidney cancer, cutaneous fibrofolliculomas and pulmonary cysts. The responsible gene, FLCN is a tumor suppressor for kidney cancer which plays an important role for energy homeostasis through the regulation of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. However, how FLCN-deficiency leads to renal tumorigenesis is unclear.ResultsWhole-exome sequencing analysis of BHD-associated kidney cancer revealed that copy number variations (CNV) of BHD-associated kidney cancer are considerably different from those already reported in sporadic cases. Somatic mutation analysis revealed BHD-associated kidney cancer has quite few common mutations in specific genes; however, chromatin remodeling genes in total were frequently mutated in BHD-associated kidney cancer (17/29 tumors, 59%). Metabolite analysis revealed that glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway and lipid metabolism were upregulated whereas the rate of beta oxydation and TCA cycle is decreased in BHD-associated kidney cancer compared to normal adjacent kidney.Conclusions BHD-associated kidney cancer displays a unique molecular characteristics which is totally different from that of sporadic kidney cancer, providing the mechanistic insight into tumorigenesis under FLCN deficiency as well as the foundation for the development of novel therapeutics for kidney cancer.

  Study JGAS000115

• Analysis of mutational and proteomic heterogeneity of gastric cancer to monitor post-treatment tumor burden using circulating tumor DNA

  It remains unclear whether complete spectrum of tumor heterogeneity is reflected in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Here, we performed multi-regional target sequencing of primary tumors from 10 patients who underwent surgical resection for gastric cancer. A total of 126 non-synonymous mutations were identified from 30 samples from 10 tumors. Of these, 16 (12.7%) were likely mutations that occurred early in tumor development (i.e., present in all three regions) and were designated founder mutations. Among those validated with highly sensitive digital PCR (dPCR), 93% of non-founder mutations were found in all three regions. Variant allele frequencies (VAFs) of founder mutations were significantly higher than those of non-founder mutations. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that five of eight tumors (62.5%, excluding two hypermutator) had at least one identifiable truncal/founder mutation. These findings led us to prioritize founder mutations for ctDNA detection with individually-designed primer/probe sets for dPCR. Marked proteomic diversity was present across the tumor regions both within and between patients independent of mutational status. In preoperative plasma, the average ctDNA VAF of founder mutations was significantly higher than that of non-founder mutations (p = 0.039). Our present data demonstrated that high VAF mutations in the tumor likely represent founder or truncal mutations. However, mutation patterns alone appear insufficient to predict protein heterogeneity. These results suggest that, in practice, mutations having high VAF identified without multi-regional sequencing may be useful for ctDNA monitoring but are inadequate to fully predict proteomic heterogeneity of the tumor.

  Study JGAS000231

• High-coverage whole-genome sequencing reveals structural variations in triple-negative breast cancer

  Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells do not express estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Currently, apart from poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, there are few effective therapeutic options for this cancer type. Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of genetic alterations in TNBC via high-coverage whole-genome sequencing along with transcriptomic and whole-exome sequencing. Silencing of BRCA1 gene impaired the homologous recombination (HR) pathway in a subset of TNBC, which exhibited similar phenotypes with tumors with BRCA1 mutations; they harbored many structural variations (SVs) with relative enrichment for tandem duplication. Clonal analysis suggested that TP53 mutations and methylation of CpG dinucleotides in the BRCA1 promoter were the early events of carcinogenesis. SVs were associated with driver oncogenic events such as amplification of MYC, NOTCH2 or NOTCH3 and impacted tumor suppressor genes including RB1, PTEN and KMT2C. We also identified a variety of oncogenes that could transform 3T3 mouse fibroblast cells, suggesting that individual TNBC tumors may undergo a unique driver event that can be targetable. Thus, we revealed several features of TNBC that had important clinical implications.

  Study JGAS000095

• Genome sequencing of biliary tract cancers

  Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are clinically and pathologically heterogeneous with poor response to treatments. Genomic profiling can offer a clearer understanding of their carcinogenesis, classification and treatment strategy. We performed genome sequencing analyses for a large scale samples of BTCs to investigate their somatic and germline driver events and characterize their genomic landscape.

  Study JGAS000389

• Different malignant tumor samples including lung cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer.

  Genomic DNA was purified from tumor cells and normal cells in cancer patients; We sequenced those genomic DNAs using 10X Genomics sequencing technologies, and analyzed genomic structural variations.

  Study JGAS000360