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Vuerich M, Nguyen DH, Ferrari D, Longhi MS. Adenosine-mediated immune responses in inflammatory bowel disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1429736. [PMID: 39188525 PMCID: PMC11345147 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1429736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular ATP and its derivates mediate a signaling pathway that might be pharmacologically targeted to treat inflammatory conditions. Extracellular adenosine, the product of ATP hydrolysis by ectonucleotidase enzymes, plays a key role in halting inflammation while promoting immune tolerance. The rate-limiting ectoenzyme ENTPD1/CD39 and the ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73 are the prototype members of the ectonucleotidase family, being responsible for ATP degradation into immunosuppressive adenosine. The biological effects of adenosine are mediated via adenosine receptors, a family of G protein-coupled receptors largely expressed on immune cells where they modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a serious inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, associated with substantial morbidity and often refractory to currently available medications. IBD is linked to altered interactions between the gut microbiota and the immune system in genetically predisposed individuals. A wealth of studies conducted in patients and animal models highlighted the role of various adenosine receptors in the modulation of chronic inflammatory diseases like IBD. In this review, we will discuss the most recent findings on adenosine-mediated immune responses in different cell types, with a focus on IBD and its most common manifestations, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vuerich
- Biomedical Research, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Du Hanh Nguyen
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Davide Ferrari
- Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Wixler V, Leite Dantas R, Varga G, Boergeling Y, Ludwig S. Small Spleen Peptides (SSPs) Shape Dendritic Cell Differentiation through Modulation of Extracellular ATP Synthesis Profile. Biomolecules 2024; 14:469. [PMID: 38672485 PMCID: PMC11047987 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Restoring peripheral immune tolerance is crucial for addressing autoimmune diseases. An ancient mechanism in maintaining the balance between inflammation and tolerance is the ratio of extracellular ATP (exATP) and adenosine. Our previous research demonstrated the effectiveness of small spleen peptides (SSPs) in inhibiting psoriatic arthritis progression, even in the presence of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα, by transforming dendritic cells (DCs) into tolerogenic cells and fostering regulatory Foxp3+ Treg cells. Here, we identified thymosins as the primary constituents of SSPs, but recombinant thymosin peptides were less efficient in inhibiting arthritis than SSPs. Since Tβ4 is an ecto-ATPase-binding protein, we hypothesized that SSPs regulate exATP profiles. Real-time investigation of exATP levels in DCs revealed that tolerogenic stimulation led to robust de novo exATP synthesis followed by significant degradation, while immunogenic stimulation resulted in a less pronounced increase in exATP and less effective degradation. These contrasting exATP profiles were crucial in determining whether DCs entered an inflammatory or tolerogenic state, highlighting the significance of SSPs as natural regulators of peripheral immunological tolerance, with potential therapeutic benefits for autoimmune diseases. Finally, we demonstrated that the tolerogenic phenotype of SSPs is mainly influenced by adenosine receptors, and in vivo administration of SSPs inhibits psoriatic skin inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Wixler
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation (ZMBE), Westfaelische Wilhelms-University, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (Y.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Rafael Leite Dantas
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation (ZMBE), Westfaelische Wilhelms-University, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (Y.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Georg Varga
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Children’s Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany;
| | - Yvonne Boergeling
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation (ZMBE), Westfaelische Wilhelms-University, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (Y.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Stephan Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation (ZMBE), Westfaelische Wilhelms-University, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (R.L.D.); (Y.B.); (S.L.)
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Huang R, Ning Q, Zhao J, Zhao X, Zeng L, Yi Y, Tang S. Targeting ENPP1 for cancer immunotherapy: Killing two birds with one stone. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:116006. [PMID: 38142838 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.116006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized the paradigm of cancer treatment. Nevertheless, the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy remains limited in most clinical settings due to the lack of a preexisting antitumor T-cell response in tumors. Therefore, the clinical outcomes of cancer immunotherapy must be improved crucially. With increased awareness of the importance of the innate immune response in the recruitment of T cells, as well as the onset and maintenance of the T cell response, great interest has been shown in activating the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to awaken the innate immune response, thereby orchestrating both innate and adaptive immune responses to induce tumor clearance. However, tumor cells have evolved to overexpress ectonucleotide pyrophosphate phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1), which degrades the immunotransmitter 2',3'-cGAMP and promotes the production of immune-suppressing adenosine, resulting in inhibition of the anticancer immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Clinically, ENPP1 overexpression is closely associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Conversely, depleting or inhibiting ENPP1 has been verified to elevate extracellular 2',3'-cGAMP levels and inhibit the generation of adenosine, thereby reinvigorating the anticancer immune response for tumor elimination. A variety of ENPP1 inhibitors have recently been developed and have demonstrated significant promise for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of ENPP1, dissect its immunosuppressive mechanisms, and discuss the development of ENPP1 inhibitors with the potential to further improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruilei Huang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Qian Ning
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jihui Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Xuhong Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Luting Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Yi Yi
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Shengsong Tang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
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Wang R, Liu Z, Wang T, Zhang J, Liu J, Zhou Q. Landscape of adenosine pathway and immune checkpoint dual blockade in NSCLC: progress in basic research and clinical application. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1320244. [PMID: 38348050 PMCID: PMC10859755 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1320244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer poses a global threat to human health, while common cancer treatments (chemotherapy and targeted therapies) have limited efficacy. Immunotherapy offers hope of sustained remission for many patients with lung cancer, but a significant proportion of patients fail to respond to treatment owing to immune resistance. There is extensive evidence to suggest the immunosuppressive microenvironment as the cause of this treatment failure. Numerous studies have suggested that the adenosine (ADO) pathway plays an important role in the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and may be a key factor in the development of immune resistance in EGFR-mutant cell lung cancer. Inhibition of this pathway may therefore be a potential target to achieve effective reversal of ADO pathway-mediated immune resistance. Recently, an increasing number of clinical trials have begun to address the broad prospects of using the ADO pathway as an immunotherapeutic strategy. However, few researchers have summarized the theoretical basis and clinical rationale of the ADO pathway and immune checkpoint dual blockade in a systematic and detailed manner, particularly in lung cancer. As such, a timely review of the potential value of the ADO pathway in combination with immunotherapy strategies for lung cancer is warranted. This comprehensive review first describes the role of ADO in the formation of a lung tumor-induced immunosuppressive microenvironment, discusses the key mechanisms of ADO inhibitors in reversing lung immunosuppression, and highlights recent evidence from preclinical and clinical studies of ADO inhibitors combined with immune checkpoint blockers to improve the lung cancer immunosuppressive microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rulan Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenkun Liu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiabi Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Jiewei Liu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Wang B, Zhou A, Pan Q, Li Y, Xi Z, He K, Li D, Li B, Liu Y, Liu Y, Xia Q. Adenosinergic metabolism pathway: an emerging target for improving outcomes of solid organ transplantation. Transl Res 2024; 263:93-101. [PMID: 37678756 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular nucleotides are widely recognized as crucial modulators of immune responses in peripheral tissues. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine are key components of extracellular nucleotides, the balance of which contributes to immune homeostasis. Under tissue injury, ATP exerts its pro-inflammatory function, while the adenosinergic pathway rapidly degrades ATP to immunosuppressive adenosine, thus inhibiting excessive and uncontrolled inflammatory responses. Previous reviews have explored the immunoregulatory role of extracellular adenosine in various pathological conditions, especially inflammation and malignancy. However, current knowledge regarding adenosine and adenosinergic metabolism in the context of solid organ transplantation remains fragmented. In this review, we summarize the latest information on adenosine metabolism and the mechanisms by which it suppresses the effector function of immune cells, as well as highlight the protective role of adenosine in all stages of solid organ transplantation, including reducing ischemia reperfusion injury during organ procurement, alleviating rejection, and promoting graft regeneration after transplantation. Finally, we discuss the potential for future clinical translation of adenosinergic pathway in solid organ transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingran Wang
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Aiwei Zhou
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Pan
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanran Li
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhifeng Xi
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Kang He
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongbo Liu
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qiang Xia
- Department of liver surgery, Renji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai, China
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6
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Wei T, Liu J, Ma S, Wang M, Yuan Q, Huang A, Wu Z, Shang D, Yin P. A Nucleotide Metabolism-Related Gene Signature for Risk Stratification and Prognosis Prediction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on an Integrated Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Approach. Metabolites 2023; 13:1116. [PMID: 37999212 PMCID: PMC10673507 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13111116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The in-depth study of genes and metabolites related to nucleotide metabolism will provide new ideas for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. This study integrated the transcriptome data of different cancer types to explore the characteristics and significance of nucleotide metabolism-related genes (NMGRs) in different cancer types. Then, we constructed a new HCC classifier and prognosis model based on HCC samples from TCGA and GEO, and detected the gene expression level in the model through molecular biology experiments. Finally, nucleotide metabolism-related products in serum of HCC patients were examined using untargeted metabolomics. A total of 97 NMRGs were obtained based on bioinformatics techniques. In addition, a clinical model that could accurately predict the prognostic outcome of HCC was constructed, which contained 11 NMRGs. The results of PCR experiments showed that the expression levels of these genes were basically consistent with the predicted trends. Meanwhile, the results of untargeted metabolomics also proved that there was a significant nucleotide metabolism disorder in the development of HCC. Our results provide a promising insight into nucleotide metabolism in HCC, as well as a tailored prognostic and chemotherapy sensitivity prediction tool for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianfu Wei
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Jifeng Liu
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Shurong Ma
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Mimi Wang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Qihang Yuan
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Anliang Huang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Zeming Wu
- iPhenome Biotechnology (Yun Pu Kang) Inc., Dalian 116000, China
| | - Dong Shang
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Peiyuan Yin
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China; (T.W.)
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
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Shi G, Zhou Y, Liu W, Chen C, Wei Y, Yan X, Wu L, Wang W, Sun L, Zhang T. Bone-derived MSCs encapsulated in alginate hydrogel prevent collagen-induced arthritis in mice through the activation of adenosine A 2A/2B receptors in tolerogenic dendritic cells. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:2778-2794. [PMID: 37425054 PMCID: PMC10326293 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDCs) facilitate the suppression of autoimmune responses by differentiating regulatory T cells (Treg). The dysfunction of immunotolerance results in the development of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As multipotent progenitor cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), can regulate dendritic cells (DCs) to restore their immunosuppressive function and prevent disease development. However, the underlying mechanisms of MSCs in regulating DCs still need to be better defined. Simultaneously, the delivery system for MSCs also influences their function. Herein, MSCs are encapsulated in alginate hydrogel to improve cell survival and retention in situ, maximizing efficacy in vivo. The three-dimensional co-culture of encapsulated MSCs with DCs demonstrates that MSCs can inhibit the maturation of DCs and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice model, alginate hydrogel encapsulated MSCs induce a significantly higher expression of CD39+CD73+ on MSCs. These enzymes hydrolyze ATP to adenosine and activate A2A/2B receptors on immature DCs, further promoting the phenotypic transformation of DCs to tolDCs and regulating naïve T cells to Tregs. Therefore, encapsulated MSCs obviously alleviate the inflammatory response and prevent CIA progression. This finding clarifies the mechanism of MSCs-DCs crosstalk in eliciting the immunosuppression effect and provides insights into hydrogel-promoted stem cell therapy for autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaona Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wenshuai Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Chengjuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yazi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xinlong Yan
- Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Lei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Lan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tiantai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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Liu J, Zhong L, Deng D, Zhang Y, Yuan Q, Shang D. The combined signatures of the tumour microenvironment and nucleotide metabolism-related genes provide a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker for gastric cancer. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6622. [PMID: 37095256 PMCID: PMC10126105 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33213-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) is vital to tumour development and influences the immunotherapy response. Abnormal nucleotide metabolism (NM) not only promotes tumour cell proliferation but also inhibits immune responses in the TME. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether the combined signatures of NM and the TME could better predict the prognosis and treatment response in gastric cancer (GC). 97 NM-related genes and 22 TME cells were evaluated in TCGA-STAD samples, and predictive NM and TME characteristics were determined. Subsequent correlation analysis and single-cell data analysis illustrated a link between NM scores and TME cells. Thereafter, NM and TME characteristics were combined to construct an NM-TME classifier. Patients in the NMlow/TMEhigh group exhibited better clinical outcomes and treatment responses, which could be attributed to the differences in immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, tumour somatic mutations, immunophenoscore, immunotherapy response rate and proteomap. Additionally, the NMhigh/TMElow group benefited more from Imatinib, Midostaurin and Linsitinib, while patients in the NMlow/TMEhigh group benefited more from Paclitaxel, Methotrexate and Camptothecin. Finally, a highly reliable nomogram was developed. In conclusion, the NM-TME classifier demonstrated a pretreatment predictive value for prognosis and therapeutic responses, which may offer novel strategies for strategizing patients with optimal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jifeng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Lei Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Dawei Deng
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreas, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yunshu Zhang
- Department of Traditional Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Qihang Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Dong Shang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
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9
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Furuta K, Onishi H, Ikada Y, Masaki K, Tanaka S, Kaito C. ATP and its metabolite adenosine cooperatively upregulate the antigen-presenting molecules on dendritic cells leading to IFN-γ production by T cells. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104587. [PMID: 36889584 PMCID: PMC10124915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) present foreign antigens to T cells via the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), thereby inducing acquired immune responses. ATP accumulates at sites of inflammation or in tumor tissues, which triggers local inflammatory responses. However, it remains to be clarified how ATP modulates the functions of DCs. In this study, we investigated the effects of extracellular ATP on mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs), as well as the potential for subsequent T cell activation. We found that high concentrations of ATP (1 mM) upregulated the cell surface expression levels of MHC-I, MHC-II, and co-stimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86, but not those of co-inhibitory molecules PD-L1 and PD-L2 in BMDCs. Increased surface expression of MHC-I, MHC-II, CD80, and CD86 was inhibited by a pan-P2 receptor antagonist. In addition, the upregulation of MHC-I and MHC-II expression was inhibited by an adenosine P1 receptor antagonist and by inhibitors of CD39 and CD73, which metabolize ATP to adenosine. These results suggest that adenosine is required for the ATP-induced upregulation of MHC-I and MHC-II. In the mixed leukocyte reaction assay, ATP-stimulated BMDCs activated CD4 and CD8 T cells and induced interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production by these T cells. Collectively, these results suggest that high concentrations of extracellular ATP upregulate the expression of antigen-presenting and co-stimulatory molecules but not that of co-inhibitory molecules in BMDCs. Cooperative stimulation of ATP and its metabolite adenosine was required for the upregulation of MHC-I and MHC-II. These ATP-stimulated BMDCs induced the activation of IFN-γ-producing T cells upon antigen presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Furuta
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
| | - Hiroka Onishi
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Yuki Ikada
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Kento Masaki
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Satoshi Tanaka
- Department of Pharmacology, Division of Pathological Sciences, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Chikara Kaito
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kita-ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
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10
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Silva-Vilches C, Bolduan V, Alabdullah M, Steinbrink K, Probst HC, Enk A, Mahnke K. Topical Application of Adenosine A 2-Type Receptor Agonists Prevents Contact Hypersensitivity Reactions in Mice by Affecting Skin Dendritic Cells. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:408-418.e6. [PMID: 36174716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine (Ado) produced by skin and skin migratory CD73+ dendritic cells is critically involved in tolerance to haptens. We therefore investigated the use of Ado receptor agonists for the treatment of contact hypersensitivity reactions. A2A- 4-[2-[[6-Amino-9-(N-ethyl-β-D-ribofuranuronamidosyl)-9H-purin-2-yl]amino] ethyl]benzenepropanoic acid hydrochloride (CGS) and A2B- 2-[[6-Amino-3,5-dicyano-4-[4-[cyclopropylmethoxy]phenyl]-2-pyridinyl]thio]-acetamide (BAY) specific Ado receptor agonists were epicutaneously applied to the skin before sensitization and challenge with DNFB. Both agonists reduced ear swelling compared with solvent controls. This was accompanied by fewer activated T cells in the skin after the challenge and by higher numbers of T cells expressing anergic markers such as LAG-3, CD137, PD-1, CD272, and TIM-3 in the lymph nodes of CGS-treated groups. In ear tissue, Ado receptor agonist treatment reduced the production of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines as well as the infiltration by neutrophils after sensitization. Moreover, reduced numbers of skin migratory dendritic cells producing less IL-12 and exhibiting lower expression of CD86 were recorded in lymph nodes after sensitization. In cocultures of skin migratory dendritic cells from CGS-treated mice with T cells, reduced proliferation of T cells and decreased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines compared with that of solvent controls were apparent. In conclusion, topical application of Ado receptor agonists to the skin prevents sensitization of T cells against haptens by reducing the migration and activation of skin migratory dendritic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia Silva-Vilches
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Bolduan
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mohamad Alabdullah
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Steinbrink
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Münster, Westfälische Wilhelms-University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Alexander Enk
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karsten Mahnke
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Lymphomas Exploit Ectonucleotidase Activity To Limit Immune Responses and Prevent Cell Death. mBio 2023; 14:e0345922. [PMID: 36786572 PMCID: PMC10127690 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03459-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a cancer-associated virus that infects more than 90% of adults. Unfortunately, many EBV-driven malignancies, including numerous B cell lymphomas, are highly aggressive and lack acceptable therapeutic outcomes. The concentrations of extracellular purines, namely, ATP and adenosine, are highly dysregulated in the tumor microenvironment and significantly impact the degree of immune responses to the tumor. Additionally, many tumor cells adapt to this dysregulation by overexpressing one or more ectonucleotidases, enzymes that degrade extracellular nucleotides to nucleosides. The degradation of immunostimulatory extracellular ATP to immunosuppressive adenosine through ectonucleotidase activity is one example of tumor cell exploitation of the purinergic signaling pathway. As such, preclinical studies targeting the purinergic signaling pathway have found it to be a promising immunotherapeutic target for the treatment of solid tumors; however, the extent to which purinergic signaling impacts the development and survival of EBV+ B cell lymphoma remains unstudied. Here, we demonstrate robust ectonucleotidase expression on multiple types of EBV-positive B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Furthermore, the presence of high concentrations of extracellular ATP resulted in the expression of lytic viral proteins and exhibited cytotoxicity toward EBV+ B cell lines, particularly when CD39 was inhibited. Inhibition of CD39 also significantly prolonged survival in an aggressive cord blood humanized mouse model of EBV-driven lymphomagenesis and was correlated with an enhanced inflammatory immune response and reduced tumor burden. Taken together, these data suggest that EBV+ B cell lymphomas exploit ectonucleotidase activity to circumvent ATP-mediated inflammation and cell death. IMPORTANCE EBV is a ubiquitous pathogen responsible for significant global lymphoma burden, including Hodgkin lymphoma, numerous non-Hodgkin B, T, and NK cell lymphomas, and lymphoproliferative disorders. EBV is also associated with epithelial cancers and autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. Many of these diseases are highly aggressive and exhibit poor outcomes. As such, new treatments for EBV-driven cancers have the potential to benefit a large number of patients. We use in vitro and in vivo models to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of targeting the purinergic signaling pathway in the context of EBV-driven B cell lymphoma. These findings lend credence to the manipulation of purinergic signaling as a viable therapeutic approach to EBV+ malignancies and support the feasibility of immunotherapeutic treatments for viral lymphoma.
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12
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Benito-Lopez JJ, Marroquin-Muciño M, Perez-Medina M, Chavez-Dominguez R, Aguilar-Cazares D, Galicia-Velasco M, Lopez-Gonzalez JS. Partners in crime: The feedback loop between metabolic reprogramming and immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1101503. [PMID: 36713558 PMCID: PMC9879362 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1101503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and constantly changing cellular system composed of heterogeneous populations of tumor cells and non-transformed stromal cells, such as stem cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and innate and adaptive immune cells. Tumor, stromal, and immune cells consume available nutrients to sustain their proliferation and effector functions and, as a result of their metabolism, produce a wide array of by-products that gradually alter the composition of the milieu. The resulting depletion of essential nutrients and enrichment of by-products work together with other features of the hostile TME to inhibit the antitumor functions of immune cells and skew their phenotype to promote tumor progression. This review briefly describes the participation of the innate and adaptive immune cells in recognizing and eliminating tumor cells and how the gradual metabolic changes in the TME alter their antitumor functions. In addition, we discuss the overexpression of the immune checkpoints and their ligands as a result of nutrient deprivation and by-products accumulation, as well as the amplification of the metabolic alterations induced by the immune checkpoints, which creates an immunosuppressive feedback loop in the TME. Finally, the combination of metabolic and immune checkpoint inhibitors as a potential strategy to treat cancer and enhance the outcome of patients is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus J Benito-Lopez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Marroquin-Muciño
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Perez-Medina
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Chavez-Dominguez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Dolores Aguilar-Cazares
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miriam Galicia-Velasco
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jose S Lopez-Gonzalez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
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13
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Nucleoside transporters and immunosuppressive adenosine signaling in the tumor microenvironment: Potential therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108300. [PMID: 36283452 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine compartmentalization has a profound impact on immune cell function by regulating adenosine localization and, therefore, extracellular signaling capabilities, which suppresses immune cell function in the tumor microenvironment. Nucleoside transporters, responsible for the translocation and cellular compartmentalization of hydrophilic adenosine, represent an understudied yet crucial component of adenosine disposition in the tumor microenvironment. In this review article, we will summarize what is known regarding nucleoside transporter's function within the purinome in relation to currently devised points of intervention (i.e., ectonucleotidases, adenosine receptors) for cancer immunotherapy, alterations in nucleoside transporter expression reported in cancer, and potential avenues for targeting of nucleoside transporters for the desired modulation of adenosine compartmentalization and action. Further, we put forward that nucleoside transporters are an unexplored therapeutic opportunity, and modulation of nucleoside transport processes could attenuate the pathogenic buildup of immunosuppressive adenosine in solid tumors, particularly those enriched with nucleoside transport proteins.
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14
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Immunoregulatory signal networks and tumor immune evasion mechanisms: insights into therapeutic targets and agents in clinical development. Biochem J 2022; 479:2219-2260. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Through activation of immune cells, the immune system is responsible for identifying and destroying infected or otherwise damaged cells including tumorigenic cells that can be recognized as foreign, thus maintaining homeostasis. However, tumor cells have evolved several mechanisms to avoid immune cell detection and killing, resulting in tumor growth and progression. In the tumor microenvironment, tumor infiltrating immune cells are inactivated by soluble factors or tumor promoting conditions and lose their effects on tumor cells. Analysis of signaling and crosstalk between immune cells and tumor cells have helped us to understand in more detail the mechanisms of tumor immune evasion and this forms basis for drug development strategies in the area of cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we will summarize the dominant signaling networks involved in immune escape and describe the status of development of therapeutic strategies to target tumor immune evasion mechanisms with focus on how the tumor microenvironment interacts with T cells.
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15
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Wei Q, Zhang L, Zhao N, Cheng Z, Xin H, Ding J. Immunosuppressive adenosine-targeted biomaterials for emerging cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1012927. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1012927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has paved the way for the future of cancer therapy, but there are still significant challenges to be overcome, such as the occurrence of immune escape or suppression. Adenosine is essential in modulating the immune responses of immune cells and maintaining immune tolerance. Emerging adenosine pathway inhibitors are considered a breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy, with emphasis first being placed on the top-down blockade of adenosine signaling axis, followed by combination therapy. However, these therapeutic strategies rely on adenosine inhibitors, mainly small molecules or antibody proteins, which are limited by a single route of administration and off-target toxicity. Therefore, synergistic nanomedicine with accurate delivery targeting deeper tumors is focused on in preclinical studies. This review discusses how adenosine reshapes immunosuppressive microenvironments through its effects on immune cells, including lymphocytes and myeloid cells. Additionally, it will be the first discussion of a comprehensive strategy of biomaterials in modulating the adenosine signaling pathway, including inhibition of adenosine production, inhibition of adenosine binding to immune cells, and depletion of adenosine in the microenvironments. Furthermore, biomaterials integrating multiple therapeutic modalities with adenosine blocking are also discussed as a promising strategy for promoting cancer immunotherapy.
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16
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Hamoud AR, Bach K, Kakrecha O, Henkel N, Wu X, McCullumsmith RE, O’Donovan SM. Adenosine, Schizophrenia and Cancer: Does the Purinergic System Offer a Pathway to Treatment? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911835. [PMID: 36233136 PMCID: PMC9570456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For over a century, a complex relationship between schizophrenia diagnosis and development of many cancers has been observed. Findings from epidemiological studies are mixed, with reports of increased, reduced, or no difference in cancer incidence in schizophrenia patients. However, as risk factors for cancer, including elevated smoking rates and substance abuse, are commonly associated with this patient population, it is surprising that cancer incidence is not higher. Various factors may account for the proposed reduction in cancer incidence rates including pathophysiological changes associated with disease. Perturbations of the adenosine system are hypothesized to contribute to the neurobiology of schizophrenia. Conversely, hyperfunction of the adenosine system is found in the tumor microenvironment in cancer and targeting the adenosine system therapeutically is a promising area of research in this disease. We outline the current biochemical and pharmacological evidence for hypofunction of the adenosine system in schizophrenia, and the role of increased adenosine metabolism in the tumor microenvironment. In the context of the relatively limited literature on this patient population, we discuss whether hypofunction of this system in schizophrenia, may counteract the immunosuppressive role of adenosine in the tumor microenvironment. We also highlight the importance of studies examining the adenosine system in this subset of patients for the potential insight they may offer into these complex disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul-Rizaq Hamoud
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Karen Bach
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Ojal Kakrecha
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Nicholas Henkel
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Xiaojun Wu
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Robert E. McCullumsmith
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
- Neurosciences Institute, ProMedica, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
| | - Sinead M. O’Donovan
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
- Correspondence:
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17
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Zhang T, Yu-Jing L, Ma T. The immunomodulatory function of adenosine in sepsis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:936547. [PMID: 35958599 PMCID: PMC9357910 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.936547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is an unsolved clinical condition with a substantial mortality rate in the hospital. Despite decades of research, no effective treatments for sepsis exists. The role of adenosine in the pathogenesis of sepsis is discussed in this paper. Adenosine is an essential endogenous molecule that activates the A1, A2a, A2b, and A3 adenosine receptors to regulate tissue function. These receptors are found on a wide range of immune cells and bind adenosine, which helps to control the immune response to inflammation. The adenosine receptors have many regulatory activities that determine the onset and progression of the disease, which have been discovered via the use of animal models. A greater understanding of the role of adenosine in modulating the immune system has sparked hope that an adenosine receptor-targeted treatment may be used one day to treat sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Yu-Jing
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Tao Ma,
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18
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Tay AHM, Prieto-Díaz R, Neo S, Tong L, Chen X, Carannante V, Önfelt B, Hartman J, Haglund F, Majellaro M, Azuaje J, Garcia-Mera X, Brea JM, Loza MI, Jespers W, Gutierrez-de-Teran H, Sotelo E, Lundqvist A. A 2B adenosine receptor antagonists rescue lymphocyte activity in adenosine-producing patient-derived cancer models. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004592. [PMID: 35580926 PMCID: PMC9115112 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adenosine is a metabolite that suppresses antitumor immune response of T and NK cells via extracellular binding to the two subtypes of adenosine-2 receptors, A2ARs. While blockade of the A2AARs subtype effectively rescues lymphocyte activity, with four A2AAR antagonists currently in anticancer clinical trials, less is known for the therapeutic potential of the other A2BAR blockade within cancer immunotherapy. Recent studies suggest the formation of A2AAR/A2BAR dimers in tissues that coexpress the two receptor subtypes, where the A2BAR plays a dominant role, suggesting it as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. METHODS We report the synthesis and functional evaluation of five potent A2BAR antagonists and a dual A2AAR/A2BAR antagonist. The compounds were designed using previous pharmacological data assisted by modeling studies. Synthesis was developed using multicomponent approaches. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the phenotype of T and NK cells on A2BAR antagonist treatment. Functional activity of T and NK cells was tested in patient-derived tumor spheroid models. RESULTS We provide data for six novel small molecules: five A2BAR selective antagonists and a dual A2AAR/A2BAR antagonist. The growth of patient-derived breast cancer spheroids is prevented when treated with A2BAR antagonists. To elucidate if this depends on increased lymphocyte activity, immune cells proliferation, and cytokine production, lymphocyte infiltration was evaluated and compared with the potent A2AAR antagonist AZD-4635. We find that A2BAR antagonists rescue T and NK cell proliferation, IFNγ and perforin production, and increase tumor infiltrating lymphocytes infiltration into tumor spheroids without altering the expression of adhesion molecules. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that A2BAR is a promising target in immunotherapy, identifying ISAM-R56A as the most potent candidate for A2BAR blockade. Inhibition of A2BAR signaling restores T cell function and proliferation. Furthermore, A2BAR and dual A2AAR/A2BAR antagonists showed similar or better results than A2AAR antagonist AZD-4635 reinforcing the idea of dominant role of the A2BAR in the regulation of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apple Hui Min Tay
- Department of Biological Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rubén Prieto-Díaz
- Center for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Shiyong Neo
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Singapore Immunology Network SIgN, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Le Tong
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xinsong Chen
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valentina Carannante
- Department of Microbiology Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Önfelt
- Department of Microbiology Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Hartman
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Felix Haglund
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Majellaro
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Jhonny Azuaje
- Center for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Xerardo Garcia-Mera
- Center for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Jose M Brea
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Maria I Loza
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Willem Jespers
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hugo Gutierrez-de-Teran
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- Center for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Andreas Lundqvist
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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19
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Sun D, Shao H, Kaplan HJ. TLR ligand ligation switches adenosine receptor usage of BMDCs leading to augmented Th17 responses in experimental autoimmune uveitis. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 3:73-84. [PMID: 36569633 PMCID: PMC9768583 DOI: 10.1016/j.crimmu.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular level of adenosine increases greatly during inflammation, which modulates immune responses. We have previously reported that adenosine enhances Th17 responses while it suppresses Th1 responses. This study examined whether response of DC to adenosine contributes to the biased effect of adenosine and determined whether adenosine and TLR ligands have counteractive or synergistic effects on DC function. Our results show that adenosine is actively involved in both in vitro and in vivo activation of pathogenic T cells by DCs; however, under adenosine effect DCs' capability of promoting Th1 versus Th17 responses are dissociated. Moreover, activation of A2ARs on DCs inhibits Th1 responses whereas activation of A2BRs on DC enhances Th17 responses. An intriguing observation was that TLR engagement switches the adenosine receptor from A2ARs to A2BRs usage of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and adenosine binding to BMDCs via A2BR converts adenosine's anti-to proinflammatory effect. The dual effects of adenosine and TLR ligand on BMDCs synergistically enhances the Th17 responses whereas the dual effect on Th1 responses is antagonistic. The results imply that Th17 responses will gain dominance when inflammatory environment accumulates both TLR ligands and adenosine and the underlying mechanisms include that TLR ligand exposure has a unique effect switching adenosine receptor usage of DCs from A2ARs to A2BRs, via which Th17 responses are promoted. Our observation should improve our understanding on the balance of Th1 and Th17 responses in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and other related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Sun
- Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
- Corresponding author. Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
| | - Henry J. Kaplan
- Saint Louis University (SLU) Eye Institute, SLU School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, United States
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20
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Wan M, Ding Y, Li Z, Wang X, Xu M. Metabolic manipulation of the tumour immune microenvironment. Immunology 2021; 165:290-300. [PMID: 34962655 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few years, the evolution of immunotherapy has resulted in a shift in cancer treatment models. However, with immunosuppressive effects of the tumour microenvironment continue to limit advances in tumour immunotherapy. The tumour microenvironment induces metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, which results in competition for nutrients between tumour cells and host immunocytes. Metabolic and waste products originating in tumour cells can influence the activation and effector properties of immunocytes in numerous ways and ultimately promote the survival and propagation of tumour cells. In this paper, we discuss metabolic reprogramming in tumour cells and the influence of metabolite byproducts on the immune microenvironment, providing novel insights into tumour immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengtian Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuzhu Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu Province, China
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21
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Sun D, Ko M, Shao H, Kaplan HJ. Adenosine receptor ligation tips the uveitogenic Th1 and Th17 balance towards the latter in experimental autoimmune uveitis-induced mouse. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 2:93-103. [PMID: 34825178 PMCID: PMC8612466 DOI: 10.1016/j.crimmu.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Various pathological conditions are accompanied by release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from the intracellular to the extracellular compartment, where it degrades into adenosine and modulates immune responses. Previous studies concluded that both ATP and its degradation product adenosine are important immune-regulatory molecules; ATP acted as a danger signal that promotes immune responses, but adenosine's effect was inhibitory. We show that adenosine receptor ligation plays an important role in balancing Th1 and Th17 pathogenic T cell responses in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU). While its effect on Th1 responses is inhibitory, its effect on Th17 responses is enhancing, thereby impacting the balance between Th1 and Th17 responses. Mechanistic studies showed that this effect is mediated via several immune cells, among which γδ T cell activation and dendritic cell differentiation are prominent; adenosine- and γδ-mediated immunoregulation synergistically impact each other's effect. Adenosine receptor ligation augments the activation of γδ T cells, which is an important promoter for Th17 responses and has a strong effect on dendritic cell (DC) differentiation, tipping the balance from generation of DCs that stimulate Th1 responses to those that stimulate Th17 responses. The knowledge acquired in this study should improve our understanding of the immune-regulatory effect of extracellular ATP-adenosine metabolism and improve treatment for autoimmune diseases caused by both Th1-and Th17-type pathogenic T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Sun
- Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
- Corresponding author. Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90033, USA.
| | - Minhee Ko
- Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
| | - Henry J. Kaplan
- Saint Louis University (SLU) Eye Institute, SLU School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63104, United States
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22
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Liang L, Yang LL, Wang W, Ji C, Zhang L, Jia Y, Chen Y, Wang X, Tan J, Sun ZJ, Yuan Q, Tan W. Calcium Phosphate-Reinforced Metal-Organic Frameworks Regulate Adenosine-Mediated Immunosuppression. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2102271. [PMID: 34554618 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202102271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Long-term accumulation of adenosine (Ado) in tumor tissues helps to establish the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and to promote tumor development. Regulation of Ado metabolism is particularly pivotal for blocking Ado-mediated immunosuppression. The activity of adenosine kinase (ADK) for catalyzing the phosphorylation of Ado plays an essential role in regulating Ado metabolism. Specifically, accumulated Ado in the tumor microenvironment occupies the active site of ADK, inhibiting the phosphorylation of Ado. Phosphate can protect ADK from inactivation and restore the activity of ADK. Herein, calcium phosphate-reinforced iron-based metal-organic frameworks (CaP@Fe-MOFs) are designed to reduce Ado accumulation and to inhibit Ado-mediated immunosuppressive response in the tumor microenvironment. CaP@Fe-MOFs are found to regulate the Ado metabolism by promoting ADK-mediated phosphorylation and relieving the hypoxic tumor microenvironment. Moreover, CaP@Fe-MOFs can enhance the antitumor immune response via Ado regulation, including the increase of T lymphocytes and dendritic cells and the decrease of regulatory T lymphocytes. Finally, CaP@Fe-MOFs are used for cancer treatment in mice, alleviating the Ado-mediated immunosuppressive response and achieving tumor suppression. This study may offer a general strategy for blocking the Ado-mediated immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment and further for enhancing the immunotherapy efficacy in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Liang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Lei-Lei Yang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wenjie Wang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Cailing Ji
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Yiyi Jia
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Yuxia Chen
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Xueqiang Wang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Jie Tan
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Quan Yuan
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Weihong Tan
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
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23
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Wurm M, Schaaf O, Reutner K, Ganesan R, Mostböck S, Pelster C, Böttcher J, de Andrade Pereira B, Taubert C, Alt I, Serna G, Auguste A, Stadermann KB, Delic D, Han F, Capdevila J, Nuciforo PG, Kroe-Barrett R, Adam PJ, Vogt AB, Hofmann I. A Novel Antagonistic CD73 Antibody for Inhibition of the Immunosuppressive Adenosine Pathway. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:2250-2261. [PMID: 34482286 PMCID: PMC9398120 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite some impressive clinical results with immune checkpoint inhibitors, the majority of patients with cancer do not respond to these agents, in part due to immunosuppressive mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment. High levels of adenosine in tumors can suppress immune cell function, and strategies to target the pathway involved in its production have emerged. CD73 is a key enzyme involved in adenosine production. This led us to identify a novel humanized antagonistic CD73 antibody, mAb19, with distinct binding properties. mAb19 potently inhibits the enzymatic activity of CD73 in vitro, resulting in an inhibition of adenosine formation and enhanced T-cell activation. We then investigated the therapeutic potential of combining CD73 antagonism with other immune modulatory and chemotherapeutic agents. Combination of mAb19 with a PD-1 inhibitor increased T-cell activation in vitro Interestingly, this effect could be further enhanced with an agonist of the adenosine receptor ADORA3. Adenosine levels were found to be elevated upon doxorubicin treatment in vivo, which could be blocked by CD73 inhibition. Combining CD73 antagonism with doxorubicin resulted in superior responses in vivo Furthermore, a retrospective analysis of rectal cancer patient samples demonstrated an upregulation of the adenosine pathway upon chemoradiation, providing further rationale for combining CD73 inhibition with chemotherapeutic agents.This study demonstrates the ability of a novel CD73 antibody to enhance T-cell function through the potent suppression of adenosine levels. In addition, the data highlight combination opportunities with standard of care therapies as well as with an ADORA3 receptor agonist to treat patients with solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Wurm
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Pharmacology and Disease Positioning, Vienna, Austria
| | - Otmar Schaaf
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Reutner
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rajkumar Ganesan
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Biotherapeutics Discovery, Ridgefield, Conneticut
| | - Sven Mostböck
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christina Pelster
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jark Böttcher
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | | | - Garazi Serna
- Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall d´Hebron Institute of Oncology, CIBERONC, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aurelie Auguste
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, Translational Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Biberach, Germany
| | - Kai B Stadermann
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, Translational Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Biberach, Germany
| | - Denis Delic
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, Translational Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Biberach, Germany
| | - Fei Han
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Biotherapeutics Discovery, Ridgefield, Conneticut
| | - Jaume Capdevila
- Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall d´Hebron Institute of Oncology, CIBERONC, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo G Nuciforo
- Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, Vall d´Hebron Institute of Oncology, CIBERONC, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rachel Kroe-Barrett
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Biotherapeutics Discovery, Ridgefield, Conneticut
| | - Paul J Adam
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anne B Vogt
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Irmgard Hofmann
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV, GmbH & Co KG, Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Vienna, Austria.
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24
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Garofalo C, De Marco C, Cristiani CM. NK Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment as New Potential Players Mediating Chemotherapy Effects in Metastatic Melanoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:754541. [PMID: 34712615 PMCID: PMC8547654 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.754541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Until the last decade, chemotherapy was the standard treatment for metastatic cutaneous melanoma, even with poor results. The introduction of immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICIs) radically changed the outcome, increasing 5-year survival from 5% to 60%. However, there is still a large portion of unresponsive patients that would need further therapies. NK cells are skin-resident innate cytotoxic lymphocytes that recognize and kill virus-infected as well as cancer cells thanks to a balance between inhibitory and activating signals delivered by surface molecules expressed by the target. Since NK cells are equipped with cytotoxic machinery but lack of antigen restriction and needing to be primed, they are nowadays gaining attention as an alternative to T cells to be exploited in immunotherapy. However, their usage suffers of the same limitations reported for T cells, that is the loss of immunogenicity by target cells and the difficulty to penetrate and be activated in the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Several evidence showed that chemotherapy used in metastatic melanoma therapy possess immunomodulatory properties that may restore NK cells functions within TME. Here, we will discuss the capability of such chemotherapeutics to: i) up-regulate melanoma cells susceptibility to NK cell-mediated killing, ii) promote NK cells infiltration within TME, iii) target other immune cell subsets that affect NK cells activities. Alongside traditional systemic melanoma chemotherapy, a new pharmacological strategy based on nanocarriers loaded with chemotherapeutics is developing. The use of nanotechnologies represents a very promising approach to improve drug tolerability and effectiveness thanks to the targeted delivery of the therapeutic molecules. Here, we will also discuss the recent developments in using nanocarriers to deliver anti-cancer drugs within the melanoma microenvironment in order to improve chemotherapeutics effects. Overall, we highlight the possibility to use standard chemotherapeutics, possibly delivered by nanosystems, to enhance NK cells anti-tumor cytotoxicity. Combined with immunotherapies targeting NK cells, this may represent a valuable alternative approach to treat those patients that do not respond to current ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Garofalo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carmela De Marco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Costanza Maria Cristiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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25
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Hixson EA, Borker PV, Jackson EK, Macatangay BJ. The Adenosine Pathway and Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Inflammation. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab396. [PMID: 34557556 PMCID: PMC8454523 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with an increased risk of age-associated comorbidities and mortality compared to people without HIV. This has been attributed to HIV-associated chronic inflammation and immune activation despite viral suppression. The adenosine pathway is an established mechanism by which the body regulates persistent inflammation to limit tissue damage associated with inflammatory conditions. However, HIV infection is associated with derangements in the adenosine pathway that limits its ability to control HIV-associated inflammation. This article reviews the function of purinergic signaling and the role of the adenosine signaling pathway in HIV-associated chronic inflammation. This review also discusses the beneficial and potential detrimental effects of pharmacotherapeutic strategies targeting this pathway among people with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Hixson
- Department of Infectious Disease and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Priya V Borker
- Division of Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Edwin K Jackson
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bernard J Macatangay
- Department of Infectious Disease and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
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26
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Ma J, Zhong M, Xiong Y, Gao Z, Wu Z, Liu Y, Hong X. Emerging roles of nucleotide metabolism in cancer development: progress and prospect. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:13349-13358. [PMID: 33952722 PMCID: PMC8148454 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal cancer metabolism occurs throughout the development of tumors. Recent studies have shown that abnormal nucleotide metabolism not only accelerates the development of tumors but also inhibits the normal immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Although few relevant experiments and reports are available, study of the interaction between nucleotide metabolism and cancer development is rapidly developing. The intervention, alteration or regulation of molecular mechanisms related to abnormal nucleotide metabolism in tumor cells has become a new idea and strategy for the treatment of tumors and prevention of recurrence and metastasis. Determining how nucleotide metabolism regulates the occurrence and progression of tumors still needs long-term and extensive research and exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsong Ma
- Institute of Gastrointestinal Oncology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Mengya Zhong
- Institute of Gastrointestinal Oncology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Yubo Xiong
- Institute of Gastrointestinal Oncology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Zhi Gao
- National Center for International Research of Biological Targeting Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis and Therapy Research, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, Nanning 53000, China
| | - Zhengxin Wu
- Medical College of Guangxi University, Guangxi, Nanning 530000, China
| | - Yu Liu
- General Surgery Center, Bazhong Central Hospital, Sichuan, Bazhong 636000, China
| | - Xuehui Hong
- Institute of Gastrointestinal Oncology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Fujian, Xiamen 361000, China
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27
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Wei G, Zhang H, Zhao H, Wang J, Wu N, Li L, Wu J, Zhang D. Emerging immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment: Implications for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2021; 511:68-76. [PMID: 33957184 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoints within the tumor microenvironment (TME) play important roles in modulating host antitumor immunity. Checkpoint-based immunotherapies (e.g. immune checkpoint inhibitors) have revolutionized cancer therapy. However, there are still many drawbacks with current checkpoint immunotherapies in clinical practice, such as unresponsiveness, resistance, tumor hyperprogression, autoimmune-related adverse events, and limited efficacy with some solid malignances. These drawbacks highlight the need to further investigate the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects, as well as the need to identify new targets for cancer immunotherapy. With the discovery of emerging immune checkpoints in the TME, the development of strategies targeting the pivotal immunomodulators for cancer treatment has been significantly advanced in the past decade. In this review, we summarize and classify the novel emerging immune checkpoints beyond the extensively studied ones (e.g. PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, LAG-3 and TIM-3) in the TME, and provide an update on the clinical trials targeting these key immune molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaigai Wei
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Huiling Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Haiping Zhao
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Nana Wu
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Leying Li
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiaying Wu
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Duanwu Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, And Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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28
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Kumagai S, Koyama S, Nishikawa H. Antitumour immunity regulated by aberrant ERBB family signalling. Nat Rev Cancer 2021; 21:181-197. [PMID: 33462501 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-020-00322-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant signalling of ERBB family members plays an important role in tumorigenesis and in the escape from antitumour immunity in multiple malignancies. Molecular-targeted agents against these signalling pathways exhibit robust clinical efficacy, but patients inevitably experience acquired resistance to these molecular-targeted therapies. Although cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have shown durable antitumour response in a subset of the treated patients in multiple cancer types, clinical efficacy is limited in cancers harbouring activating gene alterations of ERBB family members. In particular, ICI treatment of patients with non-small cell lung cancers with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) alterations and breast cancers with HER2 alterations failed to show clinical benefits, suggesting that EGFR and HER2 signalling may have an essential role in inhibiting antitumour immune responses. Here, we discuss the mechanisms by which the signalling of ERBB family members affects not only autonomous cancer hallmarks, such as uncontrolled cell proliferation, but also antitumour immune responses in the tumour microenvironment and the potential application of immune-genome precision medicine into immunotherapy and molecular-targeted therapy focusing on the signalling of ERBB family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Kumagai
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center (EPOC), National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shohei Koyama
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center (EPOC), National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Nishikawa
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan.
- Division of Cancer Immunology, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center (EPOC), National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan.
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29
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Antonioli L, Fornai M, Pellegrini C, D'Antongiovanni V, Turiello R, Morello S, Haskó G, Blandizzi C. Adenosine Signaling in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1270:145-167. [PMID: 33123998 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-47189-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine, deriving from ATP released by dying cancer cells and then degradated in the tumor environment by CD39/CD73 enzyme axis, is linked to the generation of an immunosuppressed niche favoring the onset of neoplasia. Signals delivered by extracellular adenosine are detected and transduced by G-protein-coupled cell surface receptors, classified into four subtypes: A1, A2A, A2B, and A3. A critical role of this nucleoside is emerging in the modulation of several immune and nonimmune cells defining the tumor microenvironment, providing novel insights about the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at undermining the immune-privileged sites where cancer cells grow and proliferate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Antonioli
- Unit of Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Matteo Fornai
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Roberta Turiello
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,PhD Program in Drug discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Silvana Morello
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - György Haskó
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Corrado Blandizzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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30
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Ko MK, Shao H, Kaplan HJ, Sun D. CD73 + Dendritic Cells in Cascading Th17 Responses of Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis-Induced Mice. Front Immunol 2020; 11:601272. [PMID: 33343573 PMCID: PMC7738634 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.601272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that CD73 is pivotal in the conversion of pro-inflammatory adenosine triphosphate into anti-inflammatory adenosine and that immune cells of the same type that express different levels of CD73 are functionally distinct. In this study we show that adenosine enhances the Th17 promoting effect of dendritic cells (DCs), and DCs expressing CD73 critically augment Th17 responses. Bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs) do not constantly express CD73; however, a significant portion of the BMDCs expressed CD73 after exposure to Toll-like receptor ligand, leading to stronger Th17 responses by converting adenosine monophosphate to adenosine. We show that the CD73+ BMDCs play a critical role in cascading Th17 responses, and CD73+ BMDCs are functionally augmented after treatment with Toll-like receptor ligand. Splenic antigen presenting cells (DCs) of CD73−/− mouse have a poor Th17-stimulating effect, even after exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or γδ T cells, indicating that induction of CD73+ DCs is critically involved in augmented Th17 responses. We conclude that CD73+ DCs critically trigger cascading Th17 responses, and the activated Th17 cells that express CD73 further augment Th17 responses, leading to cascading exacerbation. Hence, disabling the CD73 function of DCs should block this cascading response and mitigate Th17 responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- MinHee K Ko
- Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Henry J Kaplan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saint Louis University (SLU) Eye Institute, SLU School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Deming Sun
- Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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31
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Cekic C. Modulation of myeloid cells by adenosine signaling. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2020; 53:134-145. [PMID: 33022543 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia, metabolic activity, cell death and immune responses influence the adenosine concentrations in the extracellular space. Cellular responses to hypoxia and inflammation in myeloid cells promote activation of adenosine sensing circuit, which involves increased expression of ectoenzymes that converts phospho-nucleotides such as ATP to adenosine and increased expression of G protein-coupled adenosine receptors. Adenosine sensing circuitry also involves feedforward signaling, which leads to increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1 and feedback signaling, which leads to the suppression of inflammatory transcription factor, the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activation. In this review we will discuss how different subsets of myeloid cells sense adenosine accumulation and how adenosine sensing by myeloid cells influence progression of different immune-related conditions including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caglar Cekic
- Bilkent University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Ankara, Turkey; UNAM-National Nanotechnology Research Center and Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.
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32
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Helms RS, Powell JD. Rethinking the adenosine-A 2AR checkpoint: implications for enhancing anti-tumor immunotherapy. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2020; 53:77-83. [PMID: 32781414 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2020.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine signaling through A2AR serves as a negative regulator of the immune system. Unique to this suppressive pathway is its ability to impact numerous stromal and immune cells. Additionally, tumors exhibit elevated concentrations of adenosine further advancing the pathway's potential as a powerful target for activating anti-tumor immunity. The promise of this therapeutic strategy has been repeatedly demonstrated in mice, but has so far only yielded limited success in the clinic. Nonetheless, it is notable that many of these observed clinical responses have been in individuals resistant to prior immunotherapy. These observations suggest this pathway is indeed involved in tumor immune evasion. Thus, identifying the disparities between the translational and clinical implementation of this therapy becomes necessary. To this end, this review will revisit how and where adenosine-A2AR signaling regulates the immune system and anti-tumor immunity so as to reveal opportunities for improving the translational success of this immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Helms
- The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Johns Hopkins, 1650 Orleans Street, CRB-I Rm443, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Jonathan D Powell
- The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Johns Hopkins, 1650 Orleans Street, CRB-I Rm443, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.
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D'Arrigo P, Tufano M, Rea A, Vigorito V, Novizio N, Russo S, Romano MF, Romano S. Manipulation of the Immune System for Cancer Defeat: A Focus on the T Cell Inhibitory Checkpoint Molecules. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:2402-2448. [PMID: 30398102 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666181106114421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The immune system actively counteracts the tumorigenesis process; a breakout of the immune system function, or its ability to recognize transformed cells, can favor cancer development. Cancer becomes able to escape from immune system control by using multiple mechanisms, which are only in part known at a cellular and molecular level. Among these mechanisms, in the last decade, the role played by the so-called "inhibitory immune checkpoints" is emerging as pivotal in preventing the tumor attack by the immune system. Physiologically, the inhibitory immune checkpoints work to maintain the self-tolerance and attenuate the tissue injury caused by pathogenic infections. Cancer cell exploits such immune-inhibitory molecules to contrast the immune intervention and induce tumor tolerance. Molecular agents that target these checkpoints represent the new frontier for cancer treatment. Despite the heterogeneity and multiplicity of molecular alterations among the tumors, the immune checkpoint targeted therapy has been shown to be helpful in selected and even histologically different types of cancer, and are currently being adopted against an increasing variety of tumors. The most frequently used is the moAb-based immunotherapy that targets the Programmed Cell Death 1 protein (PD-1), the PD-1 Ligand (PD-L1) or the cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA4). However, new therapeutic approaches are currently in development, along with the discovery of new immune checkpoints exploited by the cancer cell. This article aims to review the inhibitory checkpoints, which are known up to now, along with the mechanisms of cancer immunoediting. An outline of the immune checkpoint targeting approaches, also including combined immunotherapies and the existing trials, is also provided. Notwithstanding the great efforts devoted by researchers in the field of biomarkers of response, to date, no validated FDA-approved immunological biomarkers exist for cancer patients. We highlight relevant studies on predictive biomarkers and attempt to discuss the challenges in this field, due to the complex and largely unknown dynamic mechanisms that drive the tumor immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo D'Arrigo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Tufano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Rea
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Vigorito
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzia Novizio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Fiammetta Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Borodovsky A, Barbon CM, Wang Y, Ye M, Prickett L, Chandra D, Shaw J, Deng N, Sachsenmeier K, Clarke JD, Linghu B, Brown GA, Brown J, Congreve M, Cheng RK, Dore AS, Hurrell E, Shao W, Woessner R, Reimer C, Drew L, Fawell S, Schuller AG, Mele DA. Small molecule AZD4635 inhibitor of A 2AR signaling rescues immune cell function including CD103 + dendritic cells enhancing anti-tumor immunity. J Immunother Cancer 2020; 8:jitc-2019-000417. [PMID: 32727810 PMCID: PMC7394305 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2019-000417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of extracellular adenosine within the microenvironment is a strategy exploited by tumors to escape detection by the immune system. Adenosine signaling through the adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR) on immune cells elicits a range of immunosuppressive effects which promote tumor growth and limit the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Preclinical data with A2AR inhibitors have demonstrated tumor regressions in mouse models by rescuing T cell function; however, the mechanism and role on other immune cells has not been fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yanjun Wang
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Minwei Ye
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura Prickett
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dinesh Chandra
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph Shaw
- Discovery Sciences, AstraZeneca PLC, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Nanhua Deng
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kris Sachsenmeier
- Translational Medicine, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James D Clarke
- Drug Metabolism and Pharamcokinetics, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Bolan Linghu
- Translational Medicine, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Giles A Brown
- Discovery, Omass Technologies Ltd, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - James Brown
- Heptares Therapeutics, Welwyn Garden City, California, USA
| | - Miles Congreve
- Heptares Therapeutics, Welwyn Garden City, California, USA
| | | | - Andrew S Dore
- Heptares Therapeutics, Welwyn Garden City, California, USA
| | - Edward Hurrell
- Heptares Therapeutics, Welwyn Garden City, California, USA
| | - Wenlin Shao
- Oncology, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard Woessner
- Pharmacology, Blueprint Medicines, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Corinne Reimer
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lisa Drew
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen Fawell
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Deanna A Mele
- Bioscience, AstraZeneca R&D Boston, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
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The Adenosine System at the Crossroads of Intestinal Inflammation and Neoplasia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145089. [PMID: 32708507 PMCID: PMC7403993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine is a purine nucleoside, resulting from the degradation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Under adverse conditions, including hypoxia, ischemia, inflammation, or cancer, the extracellular levels of adenosine increase significantly. Once released, adenosine activates cellular signaling pathways through the engagement of the four known G-protein-coupled receptors, adenosine A1 receptor subtype (A1), A2A, A2B, and A3. These receptors, expressed virtually on all immune cells, mitigate all aspects of immune/inflammatory responses. These immunosuppressive effects contribute to blunt the exuberant inflammatory responses, shielding cells, and tissues from an excessive immune response and immune-mediated damage. However, a prolonged persistence of increased adenosine concentrations can be deleterious, participating in the creation of an immunosuppressed niche, ideal for neoplasia onset and development. Based on this evidence, the present review has been conceived to provide a comprehensive and critical overview of the involvement of adenosine system in shaping the molecular mechanisms underlying the enteric chronic inflammation and in promoting the generation of an immunosuppressive niche useful for the colorectal tumorigenesis.
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Rehman A, Baloch NUA, Morrow JP, Pacher P, Haskó G. Targeting of G-protein coupled receptors in sepsis. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 211:107529. [PMID: 32197794 PMCID: PMC7388546 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Third International Consensus Definitions (Sepsis-3) define sepsis as life-threatening multi-organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Sepsis can progress to septic shock-an even more lethal condition associated with profound circulatory, cellular and metabolic abnormalities. Septic shock remains a leading cause of death in intensive care units and carries a mortality of almost 25%. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the pathobiology of sepsis, therapeutic interventions have not translated into tangible differences in the overall outcome for patients. Clinical trials of antagonists of various pro-inflammatory mediators in sepsis have been largely unsuccessful in the past. Given the diverse physiologic roles played by G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), modulation of GPCR signaling for the treatment of sepsis has also been explored. Traditional pharmacologic approaches have mainly focused on ligands targeting the extracellular domains of GPCR. However, novel techniques aimed at modulating GPCR intracellularly through aptamers, pepducins and intrabodies have opened a fresh avenue of therapeutic possibilities. In this review, we summarize the diverse roles played by various subfamilies of GPCR in the pathogenesis of sepsis and identify potential targets for pharmacotherapy through these novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Rehman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Noor Ul-Ain Baloch
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - John P Morrow
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - György Haskó
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States.
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Zhang Y, Zhu H, Layritz F, Luo H, Wohlfahrt T, Chen CW, Soare A, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Groeber F, Reuter C, Fornasini G, Soukhareva N, Schreiber B, Ramamurthy S, Amann K, Schett G, Distler JHW. Recombinant Adenosine Deaminase Ameliorates Inflammation, Vascular Disease, and Fibrosis in Preclinical Models of Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2020; 72:1385-1395. [PMID: 32182396 DOI: 10.1002/art.41259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by fibrosis, vascular disease, and inflammation. Adenosine signaling plays a central role in fibroblast activation. We undertook this study to evaluate the therapeutic effects of adenosine depletion with PEGylated adenosine deaminase (PEG-ADA) in preclinical models of SSc. METHODS The effects of PEG-ADA on inflammation, vascular remodeling, and tissue fibrosis were analyzed in Fra-2 mice and in a B10.D2→BALB/c (H-2d ) model of sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). The effects of PEG-ADA were confirmed in vitro in a human full-thickness skin model. RESULTS PEG-ADA effectively inhibited myofibroblast differentiation and reduced pulmonary fibrosis by 34.3% (with decreased collagen expression) (P = 0.0079; n = 6), dermal fibrosis by 51.8% (P = 0.0006; n = 6), and intestinal fibrosis by 17.7% (P = 0.0228; n = 6) in Fra-2 mice. Antifibrotic effects of PEG-ADA were also demonstrated in sclerodermatous chronic GVHD (reduced by 38.4%) (P = 0.0063; n = 8), and in a human full-thickness skin model. PEG-ADA treatment decreased inflammation and corrected the M2/Th2/group 2 innate lymphoid cell 2 bias. Moreover, PEG-ADA inhibited proliferation of pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (reduced by 40.5%) (P < 0.0001; n = 6), and prevented thickening of the vessel walls (reduced by 39.6%) (P = 0.0028; n = 6) and occlusions of pulmonary arteries (reduced by 63.9%) (P = 0.0147; n = 6). Treatment with PEG-ADA inhibited apoptosis of microvascular endothelial cells (reduced by 65.4%) (P = 0.0001; n = 6) and blunted the capillary rarefication (reduced by 32.5%) (P = 0.0199; n = 6). RNA sequencing demonstrated that treatment with PEG-ADA normalized multiple pathways related to fibrosis, vasculopathy, and inflammation in Fra-2 mice. CONCLUSION Treatment with PEG-ADA ameliorates the 3 cardinal features of SSc in pharmacologically relevant and well-tolerated doses. These findings may have direct translational implications, as PEG-ADA has already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with ADA-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany, and Xiangya Hospital and Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Hui Luo
- Xiangya Hospital and Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | | | - Alina Soare
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | - Florian Groeber
- Universitätsklinikum Würzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Reuter
- Universitätsklinikum Würzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Georg Schett
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Mossenta M, Busato D, Dal Bo M, Toffoli G. Glucose Metabolism and Oxidative Stress in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Role and Possible Implications in Novel Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1668. [PMID: 32585931 PMCID: PMC7352479 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metabolism is redirected to glycolysis to enhance the production of metabolic compounds employed by cancer cells to produce proteins, lipids, and nucleotides in order to maintain a high proliferative rate. This mechanism drives towards uncontrolled growth and causes a further increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could lead to cell death. HCC overcomes the problem generated by ROS increase by increasing the antioxidant machinery, in which key mechanisms involve glutathione, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF-1α). These mechanisms could represent optimal targets for innovative therapies. The tumor microenvironment (TME) exerts a key role in HCC pathogenesis and progression. Various metabolic machineries modulate the activity of immune cells in the TME. The deregulated metabolic activity of tumor cells could impair antitumor response. Lactic acid-lactate, derived from the anaerobic glycolytic rate of tumor cells, as well as adenosine, derived from the catabolism of ATP, have an immunosuppressive activity. Metabolic reprogramming of the TME via targeted therapies could enhance the treatment efficacy of anti-cancer immunotherapy. This review describes the metabolic pathways mainly involved in the HCC pathogenesis and progression. The potential targets for HCC treatment involved in these pathways are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Mossenta
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy; (M.M.); (D.B.); (G.T.)
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Davide Busato
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy; (M.M.); (D.B.); (G.T.)
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Michele Dal Bo
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy; (M.M.); (D.B.); (G.T.)
| | - Giuseppe Toffoli
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy; (M.M.); (D.B.); (G.T.)
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Strakhova R, Cadassou O, Cros-Perrial E, Jordheim LP. Regulation of tumor infiltrated innate immune cells by adenosine. Purinergic Signal 2020; 16:289-295. [PMID: 32529478 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09701-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer has the ability to escape the immune system using different molecular actors. Adenosine is known to be involved in mechanisms which control inflammatory reactions and prevent excessive immune response. This purine nucleoside can be translocated from the cell or produced in the extracellular space by 5'-ectonucleotidases. Once bound to its receptors on the surface of immune effector cells, adenosine activates various molecular pathways, which lead to functional inhibition of the cell or its death. Some tumors are infiltrated by the different cells of immune system but are able to use adenosine as an immunosuppressive molecule and thus inhibit immune anticancer response. This mechanism is well described on adaptive cells, but much less on innate cells. This review outlines major effects of adenosine on innate immune cells, its consequences on cancer progression, and possible ways to block the adenosine-dependent immunosuppressive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Strakhova
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Octavia Cadassou
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Emeline Cros-Perrial
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Lars Petter Jordheim
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008, Lyon, France.
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Harvey JB, Phan LH, Villarreal OE, Bowser JL. CD73's Potential as an Immunotherapy Target in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Front Immunol 2020; 11:508. [PMID: 32351498 PMCID: PMC7174602 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CD73, a cell surface 5'nucleotidase that generates adenosine, has emerged as an attractive therapeutic target for reprogramming cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment to dampen antitumor immune cell evasion. Decades of studies have paved the way for these findings, starting with the discovery of adenosine signaling, particularly adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) signaling, as a potent suppressor of tissue-devastating immune cell responses, and evolving with studies focusing on CD73 in breast cancer, melanoma, and non-small cell lung cancer. Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a major cause of cancer-related deaths. Evidence is mounting that shows promise for improving patient outcomes through incorporation of immunomodulatory strategies as single agents or in combination with current treatment options. Recently, several immune checkpoint inhibitors received FDA approval for use in GI cancers; however, clinical benefit is limited. Investigating molecular mechanisms promoting immunosuppression, such as CD73, in GI cancers can aid in current efforts to extend the efficacy of immunotherapy to more patients. In this review, we discuss current clinical and basic research studies on CD73 in GI cancers, including gastric, liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer, with special focus on the potential of CD73 as an immunotherapy target in these cancers. We also present a summary of current clinical studies targeting CD73 and/or A2AR and combination of these therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry B. Harvey
- Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Luan H. Phan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Oscar E. Villarreal
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jessica L. Bowser
- Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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Hargadon KM. Tumor microenvironmental influences on dendritic cell and T cell function: A focus on clinically relevant immunologic and metabolic checkpoints. Clin Transl Med 2020; 10:374-411. [PMID: 32508018 PMCID: PMC7240858 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is fast becoming one of the most promising means of treating malignant disease. Cancer vaccines, adoptive cell transfer therapies, and immune checkpoint blockade have all shown varying levels of success in the clinical management of several cancer types in recent years. However, despite the clinical benefits often achieved by these regimens, an ongoing problem for many patients is the inherent or acquired resistance of their cancer to immunotherapy. It is now appreciated that dendritic cells and T lymphocytes both play key roles in antitumor immune responses and that the tumor microenvironment presents a number of barriers to the function of these cells that can ultimately limit the success of immunotherapy. In particular, the engagement of several immunologic and metabolic checkpoints within the hostile tumor microenvironment can severely compromise the antitumor functions of these important immune populations. This review highlights work from both preclinical and clinical studies that has shaped our understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its influence on dendritic cell and T cell function. It focuses on clinically relevant targeted and immunotherapeutic strategies that have emerged from these studies in an effort to prevent or overcome immune subversion within the tumor microenvironment. Emphasis is also placed on the potential of next-generation combinatorial regimens that target metabolic and immunologic impediments to dendritic cell and T lymphocyte function as strategies to improve antitumor immune reactivity and the clinical outcome of cancer immunotherapy going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian M. Hargadon
- Hargadon LaboratoryDepartment of BiologyHampden‐Sydney CollegeHampden‐SydneyVirginiaUSA
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Arab S, Hadjati J. Adenosine Blockage in Tumor Microenvironment and Improvement of Cancer Immunotherapy. Immune Netw 2019; 19:e23. [PMID: 31501711 PMCID: PMC6722273 DOI: 10.4110/in.2019.19.e23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been introduced into cancer treatment methods, but different problems have restricted the efficacy of these protocols in clinical trials such as the presence of various immunomodulatory factors in the tumor microenvironment. Adenosine is an immunosuppressive metabolite produced by the tumor to promote growth, invasion, metastasis, and immune evasion. Many studies about adenosine and its metabolism in cancer have heightened interest in pursuing this treatment approach. It seems that targeting the adenosine pathway in combination with immunotherapy may lead to efficient antitumor response. In this review, we provide information on the roles of both adenosine and CD73 in the immune system and tumor development. We also describe recent studies about combination therapy with both purinergic inhibitors and other immunotherapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Arab
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.,Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Science, Semnan, Iran
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ohta A. Oxygen-dependent regulation of immune checkpoint mechanisms. Int Immunol 2019; 30:335-343. [PMID: 29846615 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxy038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy of cancer has finally materialized following the success of immune checkpoint blockade. Since down-regulation of immune checkpoint mechanisms is beneficial in cancer treatment, it is important to ask why tumors are infamously filled with the immunosuppressive mechanisms. Indeed, immune checkpoints are physiological negative feedback mechanisms of immune activities, and the induction of such mechanisms is important in preventing excessive destruction of inflamed normal tissues. A condition commonly found in tumors and inflamed tissues is tissue hypoxia. Oxygen deprivation under hypoxic conditions by itself is immunosuppressive because proper oxygen supply could support bioenergetic demands of immune cells for optimal immune responses. However, importantly, hypoxia has been found to up-regulate a variety of immune checkpoints and to be able to drive a shift toward a more immunosuppressive environment. Moreover, extracellular adenosine, which accumulates due to tissue hypoxia, also contributes to the up-regulation of other immune checkpoints. Taken together, tissue oxygen is a key regulator of the immune response by directly affecting the energy status of immune effectors and by regulating the intensity of immunoregulatory activity in the environment. The regulators of various immune checkpoint mechanisms may represent the next focus to modulate the intensity of immune responses and to improve cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akio Ohta
- Department of Immunology, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Minatojima-Minamimachi, Kobe, Japan
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Vigano S, Alatzoglou D, Irving M, Ménétrier-Caux C, Caux C, Romero P, Coukos G. Targeting Adenosine in Cancer Immunotherapy to Enhance T-Cell Function. Front Immunol 2019; 10:925. [PMID: 31244820 PMCID: PMC6562565 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 269] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells play a critical role in cancer control, but a range of potent immunosuppressive mechanisms can be upregulated in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to abrogate their activity. While various immunotherapies (IMTs) aiming at re-invigorating the T-cell-mediated anti-tumor response, such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), and the adoptive cell transfer (ACT) of natural or gene-engineered ex vivo expanded tumor-specific T cells, have led to unprecedented clinical responses, only a small proportion of cancer patients benefit from these treatments. Important research efforts are thus underway to identify biomarkers of response, as well as to develop personalized combinatorial approaches that can target other inhibitory mechanisms at play in the TME. In recent years, adenosinergic signaling has emerged as a powerful immuno-metabolic checkpoint in tumors. Like several other barriers in the TME, such as the PD-1/PDL-1 axis, CTLA-4, and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1), adenosine plays important physiologic roles, but has been co-opted by tumors to promote their growth and impair immunity. Several agents counteracting the adenosine axis have been developed, and pre-clinical studies have demonstrated important anti-tumor activity, alone and in combination with other IMTs including ICB and ACT. Here we review the regulation of adenosine levels and mechanisms by which it promotes tumor growth and broadly suppresses protective immunity, with extra focus on the attenuation of T cell function. Finally, we present an overview of promising pre-clinical and clinical approaches being explored for blocking the adenosine axis for enhanced control of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena Vigano
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios Alatzoglou
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Melita Irving
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christine Ménétrier-Caux
- Department of Immunology Virology and Inflammation, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Léon Bérard Cancer Center, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, University of Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Christophe Caux
- Department of Immunology Virology and Inflammation, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Léon Bérard Cancer Center, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, University of Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Pedro Romero
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - George Coukos
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Wang Z, Wang Z, Li B, Wang S, Chen T, Ye Z. Innate Immune Cells: A Potential and Promising Cell Population for Treating Osteosarcoma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1114. [PMID: 31156651 PMCID: PMC6531991 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced, recurrent, or metastasized osteosarcomas remain challenging to cure or even alleviate. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. Cancer immunotherapy has greatly improved in recent years, with options including adoptive cellular therapy, vaccination, and checkpoint inhibitors. As such, immunotherapy is becoming a potential strategy for the treatment of osteosarcoma. Innate immunocytes, the first line of defense in the immune system and the bridge to adaptive immunity, are one of the vital effector cell subpopulations in cancer immunotherapy. Innate immune cell-based therapy has shown potent antitumor activity against hematologic malignancies and some solid tumors, including osteosarcoma. Importantly, some immune checkpoints are expressed on both innate and adaptive immune cells, modulating their functions in tumor immunity. Therefore, blocking or activating immune checkpoint-mediated downstream signaling pathways can improve the therapeutic effects of innate immune cell-based therapy. In this review, we summarize the current status and future prospects of innate immune cell-based therapy for the treatment of osteosarcoma, with a focus on the potential synergistic effects of combination therapy involving innate immunotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors/oncolytic viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Binghao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengdong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoming Ye
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Orthopedic Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Vijayamahantesh, Vijayalaxmi. Tinkering with targeting nucleotide signaling for control of intracellular Leishmania parasites. Cytokine 2019; 119:129-143. [PMID: 30909149 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Nucleotides are one of the most primitive extracellular signalling molecules across all phyla and regulate a multitude of responses. The biological effects of extracellular nucleotides/sides are mediated via the specific purinergic receptors present on the cell surface. In mammalian system, adenine nucleotides are the predominant nucleotides found in the extracellular milieu and mediate a constellation of physiological functions. In the context of host-pathogen interaction, extracellular ATP is recognized as a danger signal and potentiates the release of pro-inflammatory mediators from activated immune cells, on the other hand, its breakdown product adenosine exerts potential anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. Therefore, it is increasingly apparent that the interplay between extracellular ATP/adenosine ratios has a significant role in coordinating the regulation of the immune system in health and diseases. Several pathogens express ectonucleotidases on their surface and exploit the purinergic signalling as one of the mechanisms to modulate the host immune response. Leishmania pathogens are one of the most successful intracellular pathogens which survive within host macrophages and manipulate protective Th1 response into disease promoting Th2 response. In this review, we discuss the regulation of extracellular ATP and adenosine levels, the role of ATP/adenosine counter signalling in regulating the inflammation and immune responses during infection and how Leishmania parasites exploit the purinergic signalling to manipulate host response. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities in targeting purinergic signalling and the future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayamahantesh
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - Vijayalaxmi
- Department of Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad, Karnataka, India
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Sek K, Mølck C, Stewart GD, Kats L, Darcy PK, Beavis PA. Targeting Adenosine Receptor Signaling in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123837. [PMID: 30513816 PMCID: PMC6321150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays a major role in the surveillance and control of malignant cells, with the presence of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) correlating with better patient prognosis in multiple tumor types. The development of ‘checkpoint blockade’ and adoptive cellular therapy has revolutionized the landscape of cancer treatment and highlights the potential of utilizing the patient’s own immune system to eradicate cancer. One mechanism of tumor-mediated immunosuppression that has gained attention as a potential therapeutic target is the purinergic signaling axis, whereby the production of the purine nucleoside adenosine in the tumor microenvironment can potently suppress T and NK cell function. The production of extracellular adenosine is mediated by the cell surface ectoenzymes CD73, CD39, and CD38 and therapeutic agents have been developed to target these as well as the downstream adenosine receptors (A1R, A2AR, A2BR, A3R) to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. This review will discuss the role of adenosine and adenosine receptor signaling in tumor and immune cells with a focus on their cell-specific function and their potential as targets in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Sek
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, Australia.
| | - Christina Mølck
- Department of Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia.
| | - Gregory D Stewart
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Parkville 3052, Australia.
| | - Lev Kats
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, Australia.
| | - Phillip K Darcy
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, Australia.
- Department of Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia.
- Department of Immunology, Monash University, Clayton 3052, Australia.
| | - Paul A Beavis
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, Australia.
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Silva-Vilches C, Ring S, Mahnke K. ATP and Its Metabolite Adenosine as Regulators of Dendritic Cell Activity. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2581. [PMID: 30473700 PMCID: PMC6237882 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine (Ado) is a well-studied neurotransmitter, but it also exerts profound immune regulatory functions. Ado can (i) actively be released by various cells into the tissue environment and can (ii) be produced through the degradation of extracellular ATP by the concerted action of CD39 and CD73. In this sequence of events, the ectoenzyme CD39 degrades ATP into ADP and AMP, respectively, and CD73 catalyzes the last step leading to the production of Ado. Extracellular ATP acts as a “danger” signal and stimulates immune responses, i.e. by inflammasome activation. Its degradation product Ado on the other hand acts rather anti-inflammatory, as it down regulates functions of dendritic cells (DCs) and dampens T cell activation and cytokine secretion. Thus, the balance of proinflammatory ATP and anti-inflammatory Ado that is regulated by CD39+/CD73+ immune cells, is important for decision making on whether tolerance or immunity ensues. DCs express both ectoenzymes, enabling them to produce Ado from extracellular ATP by activity of CD73 and CD39 and thus allow dampening of the proinflammatory activity of adjacent leukocytes in the tissue. On the other hand, as most DCs express at least one out of four so far known Ado receptors (AdoR), DC derived Ado can also act back onto the DCs in an autocrine manner. This leads to suppression of DC functions that are normally involved in stimulating immune responses. Moreover, ATP and Ado production thereof acts as “find me” signal that guides cellular interactions of leukocytes during immune responses. In this review we will state the means by which Ado producing DCs are able to suppress immune responses and how extracellular Ado conditions DCs for their tolerizing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia Silva-Vilches
- Department of Dermatology, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Ring
- Department of Dermatology, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karsten Mahnke
- Department of Dermatology, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Congreve M, Brown GA, Borodovsky A, Lamb ML. Targeting adenosine A2A receptor antagonism for treatment of cancer. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2018; 13:997-1003. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2018.1534825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Miles Congreve
- Heptares Therapeutics Limited, Steinmetz Building, Cambridge, Granta Park, UK
| | - Giles A. Brown
- Heptares Therapeutics Limited, Steinmetz Building, Cambridge, Granta Park, UK
| | | | - Michelle L. Lamb
- Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Boston, MA, USA
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