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188 citation(s) found for "Wu, Cassandra".

Multicenter real-world outcomes in limited stage (LS) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treated with abbreviated immunochemotherapy
Cherng, Hua-Jay, Gerber, Drew, Nze, Chijioke, Bhayani, Shahzeem, Russler-Germain, David, Alnughmush, Ahmed, Hampel, Paul, Kille, Kelsey, Wallace, Danielle, Qualls, David, Merryman, Reid, Brooks, Jaden, Bock, Allison, Ramirez, Juan, Zhang, Yumeng, Chavez, Julio, Granger, Katelynn, Antel, Katherine, Duarte, Cassandra, Major, Ajay, Ma, Sirui, Spinner, Michael, Mackay, Alyssa, Hu, Bei, Rai, Manoj, Spurgeon, Stephen, Lee, Benjamin, Doh, Jean, Brem, Elizabeth, Altomare, Nicole, Karmali, Reem, Ryan, Robert, Tiger, Yun Kyoung, Carter, Jordan, Landsburg, Daniel, Thiruvengadam, Swetha, Skarbnik, Alan, Choi, Yun, Bond, David, Samaeekia, Ravand, Ma, Helen, Tolu, Seda, Amengual, Jennifer, Herrera, Alex, Pro, Barbara, Qualls, David , Qualls, David A , Cherng, Hua-Jay, Gerber, Drew, Nze, Chijioke, Bhayani, Shahzeem, Russler-Germain, David, Alnughmush, Ahmed, Hampel, Paul, Kille, Kelsey, Wallace, Danielle, Merryman, Reid, Brooks, Jaden, Bock, Allison, Ramirez, Juan, Zhang, Yumeng, Chavez, Julio, Granger, Katelynn, Antel, Katherine, Duarte, Cassandra, Major, Ajay, Ma, Sirui, Spinner, Michael, Mackay, Alyssa, Hu, Bei, Rai, Manoj, Spurgeon, Stephen, Lee, Benjamin, Doh, Jean, Brem, Elizabeth, Altomare, Nicole, Karmali, Reem, Ryan, Robert, Tiger, Yun Kyoung, Carter, Jordan, Landsburg, Daniel, Thiruvengadam, Swetha, Skarbnik, Alan, Choi, Yun, Bond, David, Samaeekia, Ravand, Ma, Helen, Tolu, Seda, Amengual, Jennifer, Herrera, Alex, Pro, Barbara

Blood | December 4, 2025 | Volume: 146 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 471-471

10.1182/blood-2025-471 Get It

Abstract Background: For LS-DLBCL, clinical trials (FLYER, LYSA/GOELAMS 02-03, LYSA LNH09-1B, S1001) have shown that 4 cycles of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (RCHOP4) without radiation (RT) leads to durable remissions in >90% of cases. However, only patients (pts) with non-bulky disease and/or international prognostic index (IPI) of 0 and complete metabolic response (CMR) on interim positron emission tomography (PET) scan, if performed, were eligible for RCHOP4 alone in these studies. Outcomes in trial-ineligible LS-DLBCL and the appropriate real-world candidates for RCHOP4 are still undefined. Methods: We conducted a multicenter retrospective study of adult pts with stage I/II DLBCL of any tumor bulk, IPI and with or without B-symptoms diagnosed after 2011 and treated with RCHOP4 +/- 2 cycles R from 21 U.S. centers. Pts with PMBCL, PTLD or receiving non-standard dose RCHOP for cycle (C) 1 or planned consolidative RT were excluded. The primary endpoint was PFS from C1 by Kaplan-Meier method, not counting indolent lymphoma relapse. Event free survival (EFS) was time to next therapy without progression (including unplanned RT for non-CR), progression or death. A competing risks analysis of non-relapse mortality (NRM) vs. DLBCL progression was performed. Results: The characteristics of the 428 pts were: median age 60 (18-88), 60% male, 11% Hispanic and 4% non-Hispanic Black, 62% stage I, 15% elevated LDH, 3% ECOG PS>1, 5% tumor bulk >7cm, 9% had B-symptoms and median Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was 4 (2-12). IPI was 0, 1 and 2-3 in 42%, 46% and 12% and stage-modified IPI (smIPI) was 0, 1, 2 and 3-4 in 25%, 48%, 21% and 6% of pts. 66% had nodal (59% head/neck, 11% pelvic, 9% multiple above diaphragm, 7% abdominal) and 46% extranodal sites (37% head/neck, 20% gastric/intestinal, 9% spleen, 8% skin/soft tissue); 6% had transformed/concurrent FL/MZL or grade 3B FL, 33% (138/408) were non-GCB cell of origin (COO), 25% (90/357) double expressor (DEL) and 0.5% (2/379) double-hit. 13% had completely resected disease, 97% staging PET and 47% bone marrow biopsy. Median diagnosis to treatment interval was 30 days (IQR 20-43), 6% had dose reductions after C1, 77% had an interim PET (iPET) after C2 (33%) or C3 (67%), 15% received 2 additional cycles R and 4% CNS prophylaxis. CMR rates by iPET were 83% after C2 and 94% after C3, and 95% by end-of-treatment PET. iPET PMR was more likely if smIPI>2 or bulky disease. Median follow-up time was 2.7 years. There were 32 progression events: 14 occurred at the primary site and 17 at distant sites (1 unknown), and 12 occurred after 2 years. Another 11 pts received unplanned RT after RCHOP4 for non-CR. There were 24 deaths, 12 without prior progression. Cause of death was DLBCL in 7 and non-DLBCL in 17 cases (6 infection, 2 ILD, 2 heart failure, 2 second cancer, 1 seizure, 4 unknown). EFS, PFS and OS rates were 88%, 90% and 96% at 3 years. By univariable Cox regression, Black race, elevated LDH, smIPI>2, DEL, increasing CCI, multiple subdiaphragmatic nodal sites and iPET PMR were associated with worse PFS. Non-significant variables of note included COO, extranodal sites, complete resection, missing bone marrow biopsy, missing iPET and additional cycles R. By multivariable analysis (including age>60, stage, ECOG PS>1, elevated LDH, bulky disease, CCI, B-symptoms and DEL), ECOG PS>1 (HR 3.95 p=0.050), CCI (HR 1.29 p=0.003) and DEL (HR 2.02 p=0.069) were associated with worse PFS. Cumulative incidence of DLBCL progression and NRM were 8% and 2% at 3 years. Competing risk analysis by univariable models found that age>60, ECOG PS>1, smIPI>2, elevated LDH, CCI and bulky disease were associated with NRM, while DEL and B-symptoms were associated with DLBCL progression.Conclusion: Presented is the largest retrospective cohort of LS-DLBCL treated uniformly with RCHOP4 to date. Despite modest follow-up time and lack of an “intention-to-treat“ population, this study shows that abbreviated RCHOP4 leads to excellent outcomes in the real-world, albeit with continuous risk of late relapse. smIPI risk factors were associated with worse PFS, though this may in part be driven by risk of non-lymphoma death. As pts with advanced age, poor performance status or comorbidities may benefit from reduced treatment exposure, RCHOP4 should still be considered for these and other “trial-ineligible” pts, particularly if other high-risk features (iPET PMR, DEL or B-symptoms) are absent.
Genomic and transcriptomic landscape of extranodal marginal zone lymphoma
Lossos, Izidore S., Biral, Leo, Thakkar, Devang, Naresh, Kikkeri N, Ondrejka, Sarah, Hsi, Eric, Xu, Mina, Koff, Jean, Jaye, David, Nørgaard, Peter, Breinholt, Marie Fredslund, Leeman-Neill, Rebecca, Shingleton, Jennifer, Happ, Lanie, Love, Cassandra, Mason, Emily F., Louissaint, Abner, Ong, Choon Kiat, Cheng, Chee Leong, Pillai, Raju, Pedersen, Mette, Yin, C. Cameron, Au-Yeung, Rex, Karjalainen-Lindsberg, Marja-Liisa, Chadburn, Amy, McKinney, Matthew, Sojitra, Payal, Evans, Andrew, Czader, Magdalena, Jiong, Yan, Dave, Sandeep, Chapman, Jennifer, Lossos, Izidore S., Biral, Leonardo P. A. , Thakkar, Devang, Naresh, Kikkeri N, Ondrejka, Sarah, Hsi, Eric, Xu, Mina, Koff, Jean, Jaye, David, Nørgaard, Peter, Breinholt, Marie Fredslund, Leeman-Neill, Rebecca, Shingleton, Jennifer, Happ, Lanie, Love, Cassandra, Mason, Emily F., Louissaint, Abner, Ong, Choon Kiat, Cheng, Chee Leong, Pillai, Raju, Pedersen, Mette, Yin, C. Cameron, Au-Yeung, Rex, Karjalainen-Lindsberg, Marja-Liisa, Chadburn, Amy, McKinney, Matthew, Sojitra, Payal, Evans, Andrew, Czader, Magdalena, Jiong, Yan, Dave, Sandeep, Chapman, Jennifer

Blood | December 4, 2025 | Volume: 146 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 1761-1761

10.1182/blood-2025-1761 Get It

Abstract Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is an uncommon non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma accounting for 7-10% of lymphoma diagnoses. Extranodal MZL (EMZL) of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is the most common subtype (61%) of MZL. While the mutational landscape, chromosomal aberrations and transcriptome of nodal and splenic MZL have been extensively evaluated, the mutational landscape of EMZL has only been evaluated in a small number of patients and mainly by targeted sequencing. Consequently, the comprehensive genomic landscape of EMZL remains largely uncharacterized. Herein, we performed whole exome sequencing followed by targeted sequencing of potential tumor driver genes, copy number and/or RNA transcriptome analyses in 165 patients with pretreatment EMZL tumors involving 16 anatomic locations. All samples were collected and underwent expert review as part of the Atlas of Blood Cancer Genomes consortium. The most common anatomic locations were ocular adnexa (OAMZL) (n=35), gastric (n=25, including 6 positive for Helicobacter pylori), salivary glands (n=25), and lungs (n=24). Using common criteria for variant mutation calling and significant focal copy number (CN), we identified 1218 variants (1030 missense and 188 truncation mutations) across 174 genes and 2837 CN focal alterations (1614 copy gains and 1223 copy number losses). Of these genes, 44 and 11 were mutated in >5% and >10% of specimens, respectively. We detected variants identified previously by targeted sequencing in EMZL from different locations (e.g. TNFAIP3 (A20) (12%), TBL1XR1 (13%), SPEN (10%), CARD11 (7%), TET2 (7%) and CREBBP (6%)). We detected mutations in KLF2 (10 mutations in 8 EMZL patients) and PTPRD (7 mutations in 7 EMZL patients) that were previously suggested to be specific for splenic and nodal MZL, respectively. We also detected variants not previously reported in EMZL, including a transcriptional factor ZEB2, LRP1B,and others. The most frequently mutated gene in our study (25% of tumors) was IGLL5. Some mutations were limited to specific locations (e.g. ZEB2 mutations seen exclusively in gastric and salivary gland EMZL), while most were observed across all anatomic locations. There was no association between specific mutations and clonal IGHV, in contrast to previous reports. Using Enrichr tool, we observed enrichment of mutations in genes belonging to the B cell receptor activation, NOTCH signaling, Wnt-beta catenin signaling, NF-kB signaling , PI3K AKT signaling, DNA repair and other pathways. Chromosomal and copy number changes were also commonly observed including previously reported trisomy of chromosomes 3 and 18. Combining DNA mutations and CN alterations, the number of genetic lesions per tumor sample in the 174 mutated genes ranged from 0 to 95, with an average load of 17 lesions per case. RNA sequencing was successful in 159 EMZL tumors from 16 distinct anatomic locations. Unsupervised clustering using all genes with a median log2-normalized gene expression value greater than 5 and a standard deviation greater than 1 (1323 genes) demonstrated that the majority of gastric EMZL with and without H. pylori infections clustered together on 2 dendrograms as did most of the samples of OAMZL. Since the clustering could be forced by organ-specific and not tumor-specific gene expression, we next focused on the expression of the 345 genes from the LM22 matrix that passed our transcriptomic row filtering. Unsupervised clustering resulted in clustering of most gastric EMZL irrespective of H. pylori positivity together in the same dendrogram branch, accompanied by few additional EMZL from other anatomic locations. Most of the EMZL samples from other locations did not show preferential co-clustering together. On comparison of gene expression between gastric and OAMZL, there was enrichment of the B-cell receptor signaling pathway, B-cell activation, B-cell naïve and B-cell memory cells, B-cell proliferation and NF-kB signaling in the latter. Immune microenvironment analysis showed a statistically significant increase in resting mast cells and decrease in M1 macrophages in gastric EMZL and increase in regulatory T cells in salivary EMZL. The broad genomic studies reported here underscore the biological similarity of EMZL across anatomical sites with the potential exceptions of gastric EMZL (regardless of H. Pylori status). These data provide valuable genomic and transcriptomic resources to inform future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Optimizing procedures for ocular radiation injury studies in the tree shrew
Dalvin, Lauren A. , Anderson, Kjersten J. , Rinkoski, Tommy A. , Miley, David R. , Ong, Hien Thi My , Schechinger, Angela M., Fjeld, Cassandra A., Leblond, Catherine R. , Keown, Mackenzie K. , Palmer, Sierra D. , Carlson, Brett L. , Ott, Lauren L. , Romero, Michael F. , Boynton, Felicia D. Duke , Roddy, Gavin W. , Ong, Hien , Burgenske, Danielle M , Carlson, Brett L , Ott, Lauren L , Samuels, Brian C , Romero, Michael F , Sarkaria, Jann N , Boynton, Felicia Duke , Roddy, Gavin W , Dalvin, Lauren A , Burgenske, Danielle M. , Sarkaria, Jann N.

Exploration of Targeted Anti-tumor Therapy | December 2, 2025 | Volume: 6 | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available

10.37349/etat.2025.1002352 | PMID 41357135 Get It

Radiation exposure to the eye during cancer treatment can lead to ocular radiation injury (ORI), a devastating condition that can have a profound and permanent impact on vision-related quality of life. Rodent models do not have adequate ocular anatomy to accurately simulate human ORI, and modeling in non-human primates is limited by logistical and ethical concerns. To improve future translational research investigating ways to treat or prevent ORI, we developed protocols for a tree shrew model of ORI. Northern tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri) were obtained by our laboratory. Custom housing and handling methods were developed, including custom body suits to maintain the tree shrew’s body temperature during procedures. Radiation delivery was optimized to accurately deliver radiation, and imaging was performed to observe fundus changes from ORI. Optimization of tree shrew handling, housing, anesthesia approaches, radiation delivery, and clinically-relevant ocular imaging permitted successful induction and assessment of ORI in tree shrews. With these protocols, tree shrews can be used as a highly relevant model organism with key anatomic features similar to humans to study ORI.
SUN-033 Exploring Associations Between Stress and the Vaginal Microbiome in Healthy Young Females
Zhang, Alice , Kapoor, Jyontika , Deveney, Christen M. , Pattanayak, Cassandra Wolos, Cope, Adela G. , Walther-António, Marina , Chia, Nicholas , Tetel, Marc J.

Journal of the Endocrine Society | October 23, 2025 | Volume: 9 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: No page available

10.1210/jendso/bvaf149.1622 Get It

Abstract Disclosure: A. Zhang: None. J. Kapoor: None. C. Deveney: None. A.G. Cope: None. M.M. Walther-Antonio: None. N. Chia: None. C.W. Pattanayak: None. M.J. Tetel: None. The vaginal microbiome (VM) consists of the microorganisms and their metabolites residing in the vaginal tract and is critical for maintaining female reproductive health. The Lactobacillus species predominate most VMs and produce lactic acid, which has been cited as a key protector of vaginal health. Alterations in the finely balanced vaginal microbiome can cause infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, and may contribute to the development of endometrial and ovarian cancer. While it is well-established that stress and the gut microbiome impact each other via the gut-brain axis, the influence of stress, hormones, and lifestyle factors on the VM composition remains poorly understood. We investigated the relationship between stress, hormones (menstruation, hormonal contraception), lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, sleep), and the VM composition. In this 10-week study, healthy, young female volunteers (n=62) provided daily vaginal and fecal swabs, weekly stress ratings, daily data on sleep and activity (via FitBit) and diet information. High-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing was used to identify the vaginal microbial composition of each sample. Types of hormonal birth control were none (n=30), local progestin (n=9), systemic progestin-only (n=7), or systemic estrogens and progestin combined (n=16). Consistent with our previous study, vaginal microbial diversity, as measured by the Shannon index, varied by type of hormonal birth control, with participants not on hormonal birth control having the highest average diversity. There was a positive relationship between average stress and vaginal microbial diversity, with preliminary results suggesting that this relationship depends on hormonal birth control status. Participants who menstruated during the 10-week study had a higher vaginal microbial diversity than those who did not. We are currently analyzing which microbes contribute to these differences in vaginal microbial diversity. Microbiota and fungal data from the daily vaginal and fecal swab samples will be analyzed to determine how stress, hormones and/or lifestyle factors relate to crosstalk between the vaginal and gut microbiomes. These findings may provide long-term, time-longitudinal insights into how these two important microbiomes are involved in important aspects of women’s health. Presentation: Sunday, July 13, 2025
ID2 Suppresses Multiple Myeloma Cell Proliferation by Repressing the Activity of the Transcription Factor TCF3
Fulciniti, Mariateresa , Yao, Yao , Ng, Jessica Fong, Schavgoulidze, Anaïs , Deng, Shuhui , Cui, Jian , Encinas, Jessica , Ladisa, Francesco, Young, Ryan M. , White, Cassandra , Ott, Christopher J., Matulis, Shannon M. , Sperling, Adam S. , Binder, Moritz , Munshi, Nikhil C. , Perini, Tommaso , Fong Ng, Jessica , Schavgoulidze, Anaïs , Deng, Shuhui , Cui, Jian , Encinas Mayoral, Jessica , Ladisa, Francesco , Young, Ryan M , Epstein, Charles , White, Cassandra M , Ott, Christopher J , Gulla, Annamaria , Matulis, Shannon M , Sperling, Adam S , Morelli, Eugenio , Boise, Lawrence H , Binder, Moritz , Szalat, Raphael , Samur, Mehmet K , Anderson, Kenneth C , Munshi, Nikhil C , Epstein, Charles B. , Gullà, Annamaria , Morelli, Eugenio , Boise, Lawrence , Szalat, Raphaël , Samur, Mehmet , Anderson, Kenneth C.

Blood Cancer Discovery | October 17, 2025 | Volume: 7 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 129-141

10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-25-0048 | PMID 41104834 Get It

Abstract Transcription factors and their cofactors are major and selective nononcogene dependencies in multiple myeloma cells. By performing a gain-of-function perturbation screen in human multiple myeloma cell lines, we identified the inhibitor of DNA binding (ID) genes as putative suppressors of multiple myeloma cell fitness. Among them, ID2 was found to be downregulated in multiple myeloma patient cells and acted as a tumor suppressor by directly binding and repressing the basic helix-loop-helix factor TCF3, also known as E2A. Lower ID2 expression in multiple myeloma cells conferred a proliferative advantage by increasing TCF3 activity, leading to a dependency on this transcription factor. In contrast, ID2 overexpression reduced TCF3 binding to DNA, which resulted in cell-cycle arrest and a halt in multiple myeloma cell proliferation. The myeloma bone marrow milieu supported this process by further decreasing the expression of ID2 and enhancing TCF3 activity, partly via IL6, revealing a mechanism by which the tumor microenvironment affects multiple myeloma cell behavior. Significance: Multiple myeloma cells exploit the oncogenic and proliferative potential of TCF3 by downregulating the transcriptional regulator ID2, a process facilitated by the bone marrow microenvironment.
Consensus-based disease definitions for endocrine immune-related adverse events of immune checkpoint inhibitors
Zhu, Ling , Cheung, Yee-Ming Melody , Mammen, Jennifer S. , Quandt, Zoe , Jones, Renisha, McDunn, Jon, Al-Bahadili, Huda , Warner, Allison Betof , Blackwell, Susan, Cho, Tracey , Dougan, Michael , Funchain, Pauline , Johnson, Douglas B. , Kennedy, Randol , Lim, Annette M. , Overton, Laura, Perdigoto, Ana Luisa , Sachithanandan, Nirupa , Spain, Lavinia , Tsai, Katy K., Reynolds, Kerry L. , Shariff, Afreen , Quandt, Zoe , Betof Warner, Allison , Funchain, Pauline , Herndon, Justine , Lim, Annette M , Tsai, Katy , Reynolds, Kerry L , Cho, Tracey A , Chiang, Cherie Ying , Gallagher, Emily J. , Hamnvik, Ole‐Petter R. , Jones, Renisha, McDunn, Jon , Angell, Trevor E. , Bancos, Irina , Calabrese, Cassandra M. , Ferreira, Michelle , Kheterpal, Meenal , Khouri, Michel G. , Lechner, Melissa G , Markova, Alina , Meara, Alexa Simon , Overton, Laura, Sharon, Elad , Yarchoan, Mark

Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer | October 15, 2025 | Volume: 13 | Issue: 10 | Pages: e011865

10.1136/jitc-2025-011865 | PMID 41093625 Get It

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an important class of cancer treatment. Endocrine immune-related adverse events (E-irAEs) account for a significant proportion of irAEs in ICI-treated patients. Diagnosing E-irAEs accurately and timely can be challenging in the absence of clear categorization and standardization across oncology, endocrinology and other specialties. While existing guidelines provide some broad directions to diagnosis and management, they lack clarity on irAE-specific symptom evaluation and work-up, as well as assessment of severity. These limitations can then impact triage, time-sensitive management and care escalation to specialists such as oncoendocrinologists. The objective of this study was to develop consensus-based statements on disease definitions for E-irAEs. A core working group of endocrinologists with expertise in the oncoendocrinology field drafted a survey with statements outlining the general approach to E-irAEs, disease definition and management approach of six specific diagnoses: ir-thyroiditis thyrotoxic phase, ir-thyroiditis hypothyroidism, ir-Graves’ disease, ir-hypophysitis, ir-adrenalitis and ir-type 1 diabetes mellitus. Severity grading tables were drafted for three disease categories—“thyroid”, “pituitary and adrenal”, and “diabetes mellitus”. A two-round modified Delphi process, using the RAND/University of California Los Angeles (RAND/UCLA) Appropriateness Method, was employed. In this process, a 25-member voting panel consisting of endocrinologists, oncologists and other specialists and healthcare providers with experience in management of ICI-treated patients and irAEs was recruited. The panel rated anonymously on usability, accuracy, appropriateness or agreement of 41 items on a 9-point scale in Survey 1, after which a meeting was convened. Statements were modified based on voting results from Survey 1 and Meeting 1, and the process was repeated in Survey 2 and Meeting 2. At the end of this process, consensus was achieved for all statements. Our study findings address the gap in standardized nomenclature, clinical, laboratory and radiological evaluations, and management principles of E-irAEs. With consensus achieved from a panel of experts from a variety of disciplines, we anticipate that the statements can form the basis for standardization of the diagnostic process and improvement of patient care.
Immune Stromal Components Impede Biological Effectiveness of Carbon Ion Therapy in a Preclinical Model of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Swancutt, Katy L. , Nicholson, James H., Pop, Laurentiu M. , Sishc, Brock J. , Alves, Elizabeth M. , Hamilton, Cassandra , Rusek, A., Davis, Anthony J. , Story, Michael D. , Aguilera, Todd A. , Elghonaimy, Eslam A , Nicholson, James H , Pop, Laurentiu M , Sishc, Brock J , Alves, Elizabeth M , Hamilton, Cassandra , Rusek, Adam , Davis, Anthony J , Hannan, Raquibul , Story, Michael D , Aguilera, Todd A

Molecular Cancer Therapeutics | October 14, 2025 | Volume: 25 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 333-345

10.1158/1535-7163.mct-25-0501 | PMID 41084839 Get It

Abstract The tumor landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is refractory to conventional photon radiotherapy (RT) because of a fibrotic tumor microenvironment (TME) that promotes chronic hypoxia and reduced immune surveillance. The radiobiological factors unique to carbon ion RT (CIRT), such as high linear energy transfer and less dependence on oxygen, make it well-suited to overcome the PDAC TME. In this study, we utilized clonal syngeneic KPC pancreatic tumor cell lines and tumors to examine this postulate and to identify underlying factors that affect the response of PDAC to CIRT. Although KPC cell lines exhibited radiobiological effectiveness greater than 3, subcutaneous tumors in the mouse hind leg showed lower radiobiological effectiveness—1.3 based on quintupling time—at a linear energy transfer between 70 and 80 keV/μm. Four days after CIRT, we observed widespread transcriptomic changes in the tumor immune microenvironment, suggesting increased infiltration of antitumor immune cells and elevated expression of antitumor T-cell cytokines, MHC class I molecules, and co-stimulatory signals. Fewer immunologic changes were observed following photon irradiation. By 7 days after CIRT, tumor-supportive transcriptomic programs characterized by protumor cytokines, M2 macrophages, and cancer-associated fibroblasts emerged, promoting resistance and limiting the durability of tumor growth delay. These findings suggest that CIRT may offer a favorable platform compared with conventional photon RT for combining with immunotherapies. Furthermore, these data highlight the risk of using in vitro survival data alone in treatment planning and indicate that underlying TME factors affect the response of PDAC in vivo.
A-193 It Started with Tape: Empowering Technologists on a Journey of Innovation and Safety in Cryoglobulin Testing
Derksen, Melissa, Poterucha, Cassandra, Smith, Jody, Smith, Jody, Thompson, Ashley, Willrich, Maria Alice V.

Clinical Chemistry | October 2, 2025 | Volume: 71 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: No page available

10.1093/clinchem/hvaf086.187 Get It

Abstract Background Cryoglobulins are immunoglobulins that precipitate at cold temperatures. They are associated with plasma cell disorders, infectious and autoimmune diseases. Laboratory testing is manual and requires strict temperature control, from keeping the blood sample warm from the moment of draw until processing in the laboratory. Serum samples are transferred to Kolmer glass graduated tubes upon arrival, and kept on ice for visualization of a precipitate for up to 7 days. Because of the temperature variation samples are subjected to, positive sample identification is important. The Kolmer glass tubes are not disposable, and undergo several steps of deidentification and cleaning for reuse. The goal of this project was to improve patient safety and label adherence in cryoglobulin testing by using the Managing for Daily Improvement (MDI) method to monitor and implement changes effectively. Methods During a Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) initiative, it was discovered that labels were not being secured on both ends with tape due to safety concerns when using a box cutter to remove the label prior to cleaning. This practice led to an increase in labels detaching from the glass tubes. To address this issue, we employed the MDI method and established a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) to monitor and evaluate potential changes aimed at improving label adherence. The MDI method facilitates problem-solving through daily visual indicators and discussions by empowering technologists to identify and address issues affecting daily operations. This approach encourages open communication and collaborative problem-solving, allowing the entire team to share insights and solutions in real time. Results A PDSA initiative via MDI uncovered the label adherence challenges. A KPI was developed to monitor interventions to improve the process. First, removable tape was used to secure both sides of the label. Initial results were worse than the original method but slight improvement occurred at about 3 weeks. A Just Do It (JDI) approach was initiated to leave additional space between samples. No improvements were observed and the practice discontinued within < 2 weeks. A second JDI was trialed with a different tool to remove labels post-use. The entire sample identification process was reviewed and the original identification process resumed, by adding scotch tape securing both sides of the labels and using a ceramic box cutter to remove the labels. Significant improvements to labels adherence was observed, from about 60% of labels coming off to zero, while the new tool was also safer for the team. Another PDSA was initiated to investigate if plastic, disposable tubes were a viable option for testing, and a full method validation of the new plastic tubes followed, finally eliminating the challenges with the larger process or reusing glass tubes. Conclusion MDI helped recognize a problem from the front-line and find real time solutions that benefited end-to-end operations. Visual daily indicators clearly showed effectiveness of interventions. Identifying real issues, even if they appear small, can lead to improved patient and staff safety, and empowerment to initiate meaningful change.
Abstract C064: Feasibility of an interventional clinical trial addressing prostate cancer disparities in Black men by decentralization (DCT): A potential solution to disparities in clinical trial participation
Leyva, Sandra Casanova, Johnson, K., Haddad, Tufia C. , Mercado, Lydia A., Hew, Trevanne Matthews, Moore, Cassandra N., Colón‐Otero, Gerardo , Joshi, D., Heduvor, Roselyn

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 18, 2025 | Volume: 34 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: C064-C064

10.1158/1538-7755.disp25-c064 Get It

Abstract Introduction: This ongoing study investigates the impact of vitamin D deficiency on the immune response to prostate cancer (CaP) in Black patients and its potential contribution to CaP disparities. The study also evaluates differences in immune function, including p53 and CaP associated antibody levels, in Black men with localized versus metastatic CaP. Methodology: Eligible patients with a history of localized or metastatic CaP are enrolled following informed consent (in person or remote). At baseline, blood is collected for calcium and vitamin D3 levels, and for immune testing. Patients who participate in the screening portion of the trial and are found to have vitamin D3 levels <30 ng/mL are prescribed oral vitamin D3 (2000 IU daily) and asked to record adherence in a medication diary. Follow-up includes a 4-week check-in and end-of-treatment labs at 8 weeks for calcium, vitamin D3 levels, and immune re-testing. Virtual consults occur after baseline and at 8 weeks. Quality of life is measured at baseline and EOT follow-up using the CDC HRQOL–4. The study began accruing patients in December 2021. In an attempt to accelerate patient accrual, the protocol was amended to become one of Mayo Clinic’s first fully decentralized clinical trials. Newly integrated components included at-home and community-based blood collection (outside of Mayo Clinic southern sites) and continued virtual engagement. These changes were designed to reduce barriers linked to social determinants of health (SDOH) and expand participation among medically underserved populations. This is a report on the impact of clinical trial DCT. Results: From December 2021 to September 2023 (pre-DCT), 24 patients were enrolled from 66 patients who participated in the screening portion for the trial (mean accrual: 1.09/month; SD: 1.15). Following the DCT amendment, enrollment rose to 102 patients from 213 screened (mean: 4.86/month; SD: 3.12) through June 2025. Of 126 enrolled patients, 119 (94.4%) returned medication diaries, with only 6 non-returns occurring post-DCT. QOL measures were completed by approximately 75% of participants. Importantly, 90 of 126 participants (71%) were enrolled from outside Jacksonville, FL or Scottsdale/Phoenix, AZ, indicating successful national expansion. A total of 111 patients failed the screening due to baseline vitamin D levels >30 ng/ml. The total number of protocol deviations increased post-DCT (60 from 10/23–6/25 vs. 14 from 12/21–9/23), there was no change in the number of protocol deviations per enrolled patients. Minor documentation and study timeline deviations were the most common in both periods. Conclusions: The successful implementation of a fully decentralized model was associated with a marked increase in the accrual of underserved patients and allows the completion of critical clinical trials that address important cancer care disparities without impacting protocol integrity. Clinical trial DCT can potentially reduce SDOH-related barriers and improve representation of underserved populations in research. Citation Format: Sandra Casanova Leyva, Kim M. Barbel Johnson, Tufia Haddad, Lydia Mercado, Trevanne Matthews Hew, Cassandra Moore, Gerardo Colon-Otero, Devina Joshi, Roselyn Heduvor. Feasibility of an interventional clinical trial addressing prostate cancer disparities in Black men by decentralization (DCT): A potential solution to disparities in clinical trial participation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C064.
Abstract A024: Whole person survivorship: Multilevel distress in prostate cancer survivors from priority communities
Willis, Floyd B. , Song, Gaole , Bedell, Fornati, Moore, Cassandra N., Cobran, Ewan K. , Bonner, Timethia , Dagne, Getachew , Merriweather, Arnold, Kaninjing, Ernie, Oladapo, Rotimi, Dronca, Roxana , Dottington, Fullwood, Odedina, Folakemi T., Ashing, Kimlin , Williams, Christopher Michael , McCall, John , Ngufor, Che

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 18, 2025 | Volume: 34 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: A024-A024

10.1158/1538-7755.disp25-a024 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Advances in treatment have led to significant increases in survival rates, with over 90% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer (CaP) living at least five years. However, surviving cancer and its treatment often weigh a hefty survivorship burden. Men from the at-risk, vulnerable populations have the greatest burden. This study aims to understand distress among Black CaP survivors (CaPS) who bear the heaviest CaP burden. Method: We conducted key informant interviews with Motivational Interviewing techniques to collect CaPS demographic information, medical history, and multilevel distress evaluation. Descriptive analyses were conducted using SAS. Results: A total of 22 CaPS (aged from 48 to 72) were involved in the study. The majority of CaPS were African American (90.9%) and were diagnosed with stage 2 (31.8%) or stage 3 (36.4%). Over half of them (68.2%) were treated by surgery; most CaPS (90.9%) experienced side effects from prostate cancer treatments. CaPS reported distress in the following domains: Emotional well-being (e.g., Feeling sad, depressed or anxious, mental health) – 40.9%, Death of someone very close to you (e.g., family) – 36.4%, Alcohol use in close family – 36.4%, Experiences of discrimination or racism – 36.4%, Healthcare costs and coverage (e.g., medication, medical services, copay, insurance premium) – 31.8%, Loneliness and isolation – 27.3%, Serious injury/illness in close family (e.g., being a caregiver) – 27.3%, Money and finance – 22.7%, Using telehealth (e.g., using a smartphone or tablet for telephone or over the computer, clinic visit, patient portal, completing online forms, virtual classes) – 22.7%, Marriage, romantic relationships – 22.7%. Discussion: Black CaP survivors (CaPS) who bear the heaviest CaP burden are considered a priority population for research and care. These CaPS identified that their psychological distress was related to both familial and socioeconomic issues. The most endorsed life-stresses included emotional wellbeing, experiences of discrimination/racism, loneliness and isolation, healthcare cost/finance, family health, personal relationship, and telehealth use. The distress data as measured by the life-stress scale are invaluable in better documenting and addressing distress in interventions responsive to specific priority communities. Our novel findings suggest the relevance of grief and loss for these men. 36% reported death of someone close, and 27% indicated distress due to loneliness and isolation. Though the sample size was small, the distress data obtained may inform the science and practice of whole-person survivorship that consider distress emphasizing emotional wellbeing. The study is ongoing, and this abstract presents preliminary results; further muti-variate analyses will be conducted for the conference presentation. Citation Format: Kimlin Ashing, Floyd Willis, Chris Williams, John Mccall, Gaole Song, Fornati Bedell, Cassandra Moore, Ewan Cobran, Che Ngufor, Timethia Bonner, Getachew Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, Ernie Kaninjing, Rotimi Oladapo, Roxana Dronca, Fullwood Dottington, Folakemi Odedina. Whole person survivorship: Multilevel distress in prostate cancer survivors from priority communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A024.