Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Enhancing Tumor Content through Tumor Macrodissection
Published on: February 12, 2022
Phospho-p70S6K/p85S6K and cdc2/cdk1 are novel targets for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma combination therapy
Merry Y Zhao1, Aaron Auerbach, Anisha M D'Costa
1Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.
Purpose:
This study aimed to identify and evaluate molecular targets for the development of a novel combination chemotherapy to treat refractory and recurrent diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
Experimental Design:
Lymphoma samples from 38 cases of primary and recurrent DLBCL were analyzed using real-time quantitative PCR of the RPS6KB1 and CDC2 genes, and immunohistochemistry for their gene products p70S6K/p85S6K and cdc2/cdk1. The Farage, Karpas422, Pfeiffer, and Toledo DLBCL cell lines were subsequently treated with rapamycin and UCN-01 alone or in combination. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression were analyzed after the drug treatment. In addition, the levels of several key protein kinases involved in the phosphoinositide 3'-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression were analyzed in the presence and absence of the drugs.
Results:
Amplification of the RPS6KB1 and CDC2 genes was found in both primary and recurrent DLBCL. Moreover, the vast majority of these lymphomas (approximately 94%) were strongly positive for phospho-p70S6K and cdc2/cdk1 proteins. The combination of rapamycin and UCN-01 synergistically inhibited the DLBCL cell proliferation by inducing G1 arrest as well as apoptosis by suppressing the phosphorylation of p70S6K/p85S6K and CDC2 expression.
Conclusion:
RPS6KB1 and CDC2 overexpression is common in DLBCL. Simultaneously targeting the RPS6KB1 and CDC2 products phospho-p70S6K/p85S6K and cdc2/cdk1 is very effective in inhibiting DLBCL proliferation and overcoming drug resistance. This work suggests that multilevel inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and double-block of cell cycle progression are effective strategies for DLBCL therapy.
Insights
Combination therapy targeting RPS6KB1 and CDC2 shows promise for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). This approach effectively inhibits DLBCL cell proliferation and overcomes drug resistance by targeting key molecular pathways.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma with significant unmet needs in refractory and recurrent cases.
- Identifying novel molecular targets is crucial for developing effective combination chemotherapy strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and evaluate molecular targets for a novel combination chemotherapy for refractory and recurrent DLBCL.
- To assess the efficacy of targeting RPS6KB1 and CDC2 in DLBCL treatment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of RPS6KB1 and CDC2 gene amplification and protein expression in DLBCL samples.
- Treatment of DLBCL cell lines with rapamycin and UCN-01, alone and in combination.
- Assessment of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression following drug treatment.
Main Results:
- RPS6KB1 and CDC2 gene amplification was observed in DLBCL.
- High expression of phospho-p70S6K and cdc2/cdk1 proteins was found in most DLBCL cases.
- Combination of rapamycin and UCN-01 synergistically inhibited DLBCL proliferation and induced apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- Overexpression of RPS6KB1 and CDC2 is common in DLBCL.
- Simultaneous targeting of phospho-p70S6K/p85S6K and cdc2/cdk1 is effective in inhibiting DLBCL proliferation and overcoming drug resistance.
- Multilevel inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and cell cycle progression offers a promising therapeutic strategy for DLBCL.
Related Concept Videos
Inhibition of Cdk Activity
M-Cdk Drives Transition Into Mitosis
Cyclin-dependent kinases, or Cdks, work in concert with cyclins to control cell cycle transitions. M-Cdk, a complex of Cdk1 bound to M cyclin, is a well-known example of this coordinated control that drives the transition from the G2 to the M phase.
M cyclin...
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Abnormal Proliferation
Positive Regulator Molecules
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
