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Ramapriyan R, Vykunta VS, Vandecandelaere G, Richardson LGK, Sun J, Curry WT, Choi BD. Altered cancer metabolism and implications for next-generation CAR T-cell therapies. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 259:108667. [PMID: 38763321 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108667] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
This review critically examines the evolving landscape of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in treating solid tumors, with a particular focus on the metabolic challenges within the tumor microenvironment. CAR T-cell therapy has demonstrated remarkable success in hematologic malignancies, yet its efficacy in solid tumors remains limited. A significant barrier is the hostile milieu of the tumor microenvironment, which impairs CAR T-cell survival and function. This review delves into the metabolic adaptations of cancer cells and their impact on immune cells, highlighting the competition for nutrients and the accumulation of immunosuppressive metabolites. It also explores emerging strategies to enhance CAR T-cell metabolic fitness and persistence, including genetic engineering and metabolic reprogramming. An integrated approach, combining metabolic interventions with CAR T-cell therapy, has the potential to overcome these constraints and improve therapeutic outcomes in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishab Ramapriyan
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Vivasvan S Vykunta
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; ImmunoX Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Gust Vandecandelaere
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Leland G K Richardson
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jing Sun
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - William T Curry
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Bryan D Choi
- Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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2
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Kennewick KT, Yamaguchi Y, Gibson J, Gerdts EA, Jeang B, Tilakawardane D, Murad JP, Chang WC, Wright SL, Thiel MS, Forman SJ, Stern LA, Priceman SJ. Nonsignaling extracellular spacer regulates tumor antigen selectivity of CAR T cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200789. [PMID: 38939825 PMCID: PMC11208731 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Advancing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells for the treatment of solid tumors is a major focus in the field of cellular immunotherapy. Several hurdles have hindered similar CAR T cell clinical responses in solid tumors as seen in hematological malignancies. These challenges include on-target off-tumor toxicities, which have inspired efforts to optimize CARs for improved tumor antigen selectivity and overall safety. We recently developed a CAR T cell therapy targeting prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA) for prostate and pancreatic cancers, showing improved preclinical antitumor activity and T cell persistence by optimizing the intracellular co-stimulatory domain. Similar studies were undertaken to optimize HER2-directed CAR T cells with modifications to the intracellular co-stimulatory domain for selective targeting of breast cancer brain metastasis. In the present study, we evaluate various nonsignaling extracellular spacers in these CARs to further improve tumor antigen selectivity. Our findings suggest that length and structure of the extracellular spacer can dictate the ability of CARs to selectively target tumor cells with high antigen density, while sparing cells with low antigen density. This study contributes to CAR construct design considerations and expands our knowledge of tuning solid tumor CAR T cell therapies for improved safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly T. Kennewick
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yukiko Yamaguchi
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jackson Gibson
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Ethan A. Gerdts
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Brook Jeang
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Dileshni Tilakawardane
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - John P. Murad
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Wen-Chung Chang
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Sarah L. Wright
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Michalina S. Thiel
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Stephen J. Forman
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Lawrence A. Stern
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Saul J. Priceman
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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Utkarsh K, Srivastava N, Kumar S, Khan A, Dagar G, Kumar M, Singh M, Haque S. CAR-T cell therapy: a game-changer in cancer treatment and beyond. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:1300-1318. [PMID: 38244129 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03368-2] [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: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, cancer has become one of the primary causes of mortality, approximately 10 million deaths worldwide each year. The most advanced, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy has turned out as a promising treatment for cancer. CAR-T cell therapy involves the genetic modification of T cells obtained from the patient's blood, and infusion back to the patients. CAR-T cell immunotherapy has led to a significant improvement in the remission rates of hematological cancers. CAR-T cell therapy presently limited to hematological cancers, there are ongoing efforts to develop additional CAR constructs such as bispecific CAR, tandem CAR, inhibitory CAR, combined antigens, CRISPR gene-editing, and nanoparticle delivery. With these advancements, CAR-T cell therapy holds promise concerning potential to improve upon traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation while reducing associated toxicities. This review covers recent advances and advantages of CAR-T cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumar Utkarsh
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Namita Srivastava
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Sachin Kumar
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Azhar Khan
- Faculty of Applied Science and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India
| | - Gunjan Dagar
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shabirul Haque
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350, Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
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4
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Yu T, Jiang W, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Jiao J, Wu M. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells in the treatment of osteosarcoma (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:40. [PMID: 38390935 PMCID: PMC10919759 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5628] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a frequently occurring primary bone tumor, mostly affecting children, adolescents and young adults. Before 1970, surgical resection was the main treatment method for OS, but the clinical results were not promising. Subsequently, the advent of chemotherapy has improved the prognosis of patients with OS. However, there is still a high incidence of metastasis or recurrence, and chemotherapy has several side effects, thus making the 5‑year survival rate markedly low. Recently, chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‑T) cell therapy represents an alternative immunotherapy approach with significant potential for hematologic malignancies. Nevertheless, the application of CAR‑T cells in the treatment of OS faces numerous challenges. The present review focused on the advances in the development of CAR‑T cells to improve their clinical efficacy, and discussed ways to overcome the difficulties faced by CAR T‑cell therapy for OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Weibo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Operating Room, The Third Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066000, P.R. China
| | - Jianhang Jiao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Minfei Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Norman Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
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Partin AC, Bruno R, Shafaattalab S, Vander Mause E, Winters A, Daris M, Gahrs C, Jette CA, DiAndreth B, Sandberg ML, Hamburger AE, Kamb A, Riley TP. Geometric parameters that affect the behavior of logic-gated CAR T cells. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1304765. [PMID: 38343543 PMCID: PMC10853413 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1304765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Clinical applications of CAR-T cells are limited by the scarcity of tumor-specific targets and are often afflicted with the same on-target/off-tumor toxicities that plague other cancer treatments. A new promising strategy to enforce tumor selectivity is the use of logic-gated, two-receptor systems. One well-described application is termed Tmod™, which originally utilized a blocking inhibitory receptor directed towards HLA-I target antigens to create a protective NOT gate. Here we show that the function of Tmod blockers targeting non-HLA-I antigens is dependent on the height of the blocker antigen and is generally compatible with small, membrane-proximal targets. We compensate for this apparent limitation by incorporating modular hinge units to artificially extend or retract the ligand-binding domains relative to the effector cell surface, thereby modulating Tmod activator and blocker function. By accounting for structural differences between activator and blocker targets, we developed a set of simple geometric parameters for Tmod receptor design that enables targeting of blocker antigens beyond HLA-I, thereby broadening the applications of logic-gated cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alexander Kamb
- A2 Biotherapeutics, Inc., Agoura Hills, CA, United States
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Kalim M, Jing R, Li X, Jiang Z, Zheng N, Wang Z, Wei G, Lu Y. Essentials of CAR-T Therapy and Associated Microbial Challenges in Long Run Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF CELLULAR IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 6:22-50. [PMID: 38883270 PMCID: PMC11172397 DOI: 10.33696/immunology.6.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has shown potential in improving outcomes for individuals with hematological malignancies. However, achieving long-term full remission for blood cancer remains challenging due to severe life-threatening toxicities such as limited anti-tumor efficacy, antigen escape, trafficking restrictions, and limited tumor invasion. Furthermore, the interactions between CAR-T cells and their host tumor microenvironments have a significant impact on CAR-T function. To overcome these considerable hurdles, fresh methodologies and approaches are needed to produce more powerful CAR-T cells with greater anti-tumor activity and less toxicity. Despite advances in CAR-T research, microbial resistance remains a significant obstacle. In this review, we discuss and describe the basics of CAR-T structures, generations, challenges, and potential risks of infections in CAR-T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Kalim
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rui Jing
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xin Li
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhiwu Jiang
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ningbo Zheng
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Guo Wei
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yong Lu
- Houston Methodist Cancer Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Majumder A. Evolving CAR-T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment: From Scientific Discovery to Cures. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:39. [PMID: 38201467 PMCID: PMC10777914 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010039] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has emerged as the most promising immunotherapy for cancer that typically uses patients' T cells and genetically engineered them to target cancer cells. Although recent improvements in CAR-T-cell therapy have shown remarkable success for treating hematological malignancies, the heterogeneity in tumor antigens and the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME) limits its efficacy in solid tumors. Despite the enormous efforts that have been made to make CAR-T-cell therapy more effective and have minimal side effects for treating hematological malignancies, more research needs to be conducted regarding its use in the clinic for treating various other types of cancer. The main concern for CAR-T-cell therapy is severe toxicities due to the cytokine release syndrome, whereas the other challenges are associated with complexity and immune-suppressing TME, tumor antigen heterogeneity, the difficulty of cell trafficking, CAR-T-cell exhaustion, and reduced cytotoxicity in the tumor site. This review discussed the latest discoveries in CAR-T-cell therapy strategies and combination therapies, as well as their effectiveness in different cancers. It also encompasses ongoing clinical trials; current challenges regarding the therapeutic use of CAR-T-cell therapy, especially for solid tumors; and evolving treatment strategies to improve the therapeutic application of CAR-T-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avisek Majumder
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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8
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Zhang Y, Patel RP, Kim KH, Cho H, Jo JC, Jeong SH, Oh SY, Choi YS, Kim SH, Lee JH, Angelos M, Guruprasad P, Cohen I, Ugwuanyi O, Lee YG, Pajarillo R, Cho JH, Carturan A, Paruzzo L, Ghilardi G, Wang M, Kim S, Kim SM, Lee HJ, Park JH, Cui L, Lee TB, Hwang IS, Lee YH, Lee YJ, Porazzi P, Liu D, Lee Y, Kim JH, Lee JS, Yoon DH, Chung J, Ruella M. Safety and efficacy of a novel anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T cell product targeting a membrane-proximal domain of CD19 with fast on- and off-rates against non-Hodgkin lymphoma: a first-in-human study. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:200. [PMID: 38066564 PMCID: PMC10709913 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01886-9] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Commercial anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies (CART19) are efficacious against advanced B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL); however, most patients ultimately relapse. Several mechanisms contribute to this failure, including CD19-negative escape and CAR T dysfunction. All four commercial CART19 products utilize the FMC63 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) specific to a CD19 membrane-distal epitope and characterized by slow association (on) and dissociation (off) rates. We hypothesized that a novel anti-CD19 scFv that engages an alternative CD19 membrane-proximal epitope independent of FMC63 and that is characterized by faster on- and off-rates could mitigate CART19 failure and improve clinical efficacy. METHODS We developed an autologous CART19 product with 4-1BB co-stimulation using a novel humanized chicken antibody (h1218). This antibody is specific to a membrane-proximal CD19 epitope and harbors faster on/off rates compared to FMC63. We tested h1218-CART19 in vitro and in vivo using FMC63-CART19-resistant models. We conducted a first-in-human multi-center phase I clinical trial to test AT101 (clinical-grade h1218-CART19) in patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) NHL. RESULTS Preclinically, h1218- but not FMC63-CART19 were able to effectively eradicate lymphomas expressing CD19 point mutations (L174V and R163L) or co-expressing FMC63-CAR19 as found in patients relapsing after FMC63-CART19. Furthermore, h1218-CART19 exhibited enhanced killing of B-cell malignancies in vitro and in vivo compared with FMC63-CART19. Mechanistically, we found that h1218-CART19 had reduced activation-induced cell death (AICD) and enhanced expansion compared to FMC63-CART19 owing to faster on- and off-rates. Based on these preclinical results, we performed a phase I dose-escalation trial, testing three dose levels (DL) of AT101 (the GMP version of h1218) using a 3 + 3 design. In 12 treated patients (7 DLBCL, 3 FL, 1 MCL, and 1 MZL), AT101 showed a promising safety profile with 8.3% grade 3 CRS (n = 1) and 8.3% grade 4 ICANS (n = 1). In the whole cohort, the overall response rate was 91.7%, with a complete response rate of 75.0%, which improved to 100% in DL-2 and -3. AT101 expansion correlates with CR and B-cell aplasia. CONCLUSIONS We developed a novel, safe, and potent CART19 product that recognizes a membrane-proximal domain of CD19 with fast on- and off-rates and showed significant efficacy and promising safety in patients with relapsed B-cell NHL. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05338931; Date: 2022-04-01.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlin Zhang
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ruchi P Patel
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ki Hyun Kim
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyungwoo Cho
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Cheol Jo
- Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | | | - Sung Yong Oh
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | | | - Sung Hyun Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Ji Hyun Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Mathew Angelos
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Puneeth Guruprasad
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ivan Cohen
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ositadimma Ugwuanyi
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yong Gu Lee
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, Korea
| | - Raymone Pajarillo
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jong Hyun Cho
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Alberto Carturan
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Luca Paruzzo
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Guido Ghilardi
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael Wang
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Soohwan Kim
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Min Kim
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jong Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Ho Park
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Leiguang Cui
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Bum Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - In-Sik Hwang
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Ha Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Jun Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Patrizia Porazzi
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dongfang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Yoon Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Hoon Kim
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Seo Lee
- Biopharmaceutical Research Center, AbClon Inc., #1401, Ace Twin Tower1, 285 Digital-Ro, Guro-Gu, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Dok Hyun Yoon
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Junho Chung
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Suite 510, Samsung Cancer Research Building, 103 Daehak-Ro, Jongno-Gu, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Marco Ruella
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, SPE 8-112, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Lymphoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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9
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Rodríguez Gil de Montes AL, Spencer LM. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells: Immunotherapy for the Treatment of Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1261-1269. [PMID: 37596239 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
In immunotherapy with T cells genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), autologous lymphocytes are extracted from the patient, genetically modified to obtain CAR-T cells, and reintroduced into the patient to attack cancer cells. The success of this therapy has been achieved in the area of CD19-positive leukemias and lymphomas, being approved for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and multiple myeloma. CARs are proteins that combine antibody specificity with T-cell cytotoxicity. The most common toxicities associated with therapy were not predicted by preclinical testing and include cytokine release syndrome, neurotoxicity, and cytopenias. These toxicities are usually reversible. One of the main challenges facing the field is the high economic cost that therapy entails, so the search for ways to reduce this cost must be a priority. In addition, other challenges to overcome include the situation that not all patients are supplied with the product and the existence of long waiting times for the start of therapy. The aim of this review is to present the development of the structure of CAR-T cells, the therapies approved to date, the toxicity associated with them, and the advantages and limitations that they present as immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lilian Maritza Spencer
- School of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Yachay Tech University, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador
- Cell Biology Department, Simón Bolívar University, Valle de Sartenejas, Caracas, Venezuela
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10
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Moghaddam MZ, Mousavi MJ, Ghotloo S. Cell-based therapies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e1091. [PMID: 38018576 PMCID: PMC10664399 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis that is the most prevalent rheumatic autoimmune disorder, affect autologous connective tissues caused by the breakdown of the self-tolerance mechanisms of the immune system. During the last two decades, cell-based therapy, including stem cells and none-stem cells has been increasingly considered as a therapeutic option in various diseases. This is partly due to the unique properties of stem cells that divide and differentiate from the specialized cells in the damaged tissue. Moreover, stem cells and none-stem cells, impose immunomodulatory properties affecting the diseases caused by immunological abnormalities such as rheumatic autoimmune disorders. In the present review, the efficacy of cell-based therapy with four main types of stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, embryonic stem cells, and human amniotic membrane cells, as well as none-stem cells, including regulatory T cells, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and tolerogenic dendritic cells will be evaluated. Moreover, other related issues, including safety, changes in immunological parameters, suitable choice of stem cell and none-stem cell origin, conditioning regimen, limitations, and complications will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Javad Mousavi
- Department of HematologyFaculty of Allied Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical SciencesBushehrIran
| | - Somayeh Ghotloo
- Autoimmune Diseases Research CenterKashan University of Medical SciencesKashanIran
- Department of Clinical Laboratory SciencesKashan University of Medical SciencesKashanIran
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11
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Zhang X, Xiao Q, Zeng L, Hashmi F, Su X. IDR-induced CAR condensation improves the cytotoxicity of CAR-Ts against low-antigen cancers. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.02.560460. [PMID: 37873222 PMCID: PMC10592880 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.02.560460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell-based therapies demonstrate remarkable efficacy for the treatment of otherwise intractable cancers, particularly B-cell malignancies. However, existing FDA-approved CAR-Ts are limited by low antigen sensitivity, rendering their insufficient targeting to low antigen-expressing cancers. To improve the antigen sensitivity of CAR-Ts, we engineered CARs targeting CD19, CD22, and HER2 by including intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) that promote signaling condensation. The "IDR CARs" triggered enhanced membrane-proximal signaling in the CAR-T synapse, which led to an increased release of cytotoxic factors, a higher killing activity towards low antigen-expressing cancer cells in vitro, and an improved anti-tumor efficacy in vivo. No elevated tonic signaling was observed in IDR CAR-Ts. Together, we demonstrated IDRs as a new tool set to enhance CAR-T cytotoxicity and to broaden CAR-T's application to low antigen-expressing cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Qian Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Longhui Zeng
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Fawzaan Hashmi
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- Yale College, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Xiaolei Su
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT 06520
- Yale Stem Cell Center, New Haven, CT 06520
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12
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Singh N, Maus MV. Synthetic manipulation of the cancer-immunity cycle: CAR-T cell therapy. Immunity 2023; 56:2296-2310. [PMID: 37820585 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic immunity to cancer has been pioneered by the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering into autologous T cells. CAR T cell therapy is highly amenable to molecular engineering to bypass barriers of the cancer immunity cycle, such as endogenous antigen presentation, immune priming, and natural checkpoints that constrain immune responses. Here, we review CAR T cell design and the mechanisms that drive sustained CAR T cell effector activity and anti-tumor function. We discuss engineering approaches aimed at improving anti-tumor function through a variety of mechanistic interventions for both hematologic and solid tumors. The ability to engineer T cells in such a variety of ways, including by modifying their trafficking, antigen recognition, costimulation, and addition of synthetic genes, circuits, knockouts and base edits to finely tune complex functions, is arguably the most powerful way to manipulate the cancer immunity cycle in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Singh
- Division of Oncology, Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Marcela V Maus
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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13
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Kim JH, Kim DS, Park HS, Kim YS. Engineering bispecific T-cell engagers to deplete eosinophils for the treatment of severe eosinophilic asthma. Clin Immunol 2023; 255:109755. [PMID: 37673224 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109755] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA) is characterized by elevated eosinophil counts in the blood and airway mucosa. While monoclonal antibody therapies targeting interleukin-5 (IL-5) and its receptor (IL-5Rα) have improved treatment, some patients remain unresponsive. We propose an alternative approach to eliminate eosinophils using T cells by engineering IL-5Rα × CD3 bispecific T-cell engagers (bsTCEs) that target both IL-5Rα on eosinophils and CD3 on T cells. We designed different formats of IL-5Rα × CD3 bsTCEs, incorporating variations in valency, geometry, and affinity for the target antigen binding. We identified the single-chain variable fragment (scFv)-Fc format with the highest affinity toward the membrane-proximal domain of IL-5Rα in the IL-5Rα-binding arm showed the most potent cytotoxicity against IL-5Rα-expressing peripheral eosinophils by activating autologous primary T cells from healthy donors. This study proposes IL-5Rα × CD3 bsTCEs as potential alternatives for SEA treatment. Importantly, it demonstrates the first application of bsTCEs in eliminating disease-associated cells, including eosinophils, beyond cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ho Kim
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Seong Kim
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Sim Park
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University Medical School, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sung Kim
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University Medical School, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Xiong Y, Libby KA, Su X. The physical landscape of CAR-T synapse. Biophys J 2023:S0006-3495(23)00581-7. [PMID: 37715447 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells form dynamic immunological synapses with their cancer cell targets. After a CAR-antigen engagement, the CAR-T synapse forms, matures, and finally disassembles, accompanied by substantial remodeling of cell surface proteins, lipids, and glycans. In this review, we provide perspectives for understanding protein distribution, membrane topology, and force transmission across the CAR-T synapse. We highlight the features of CAR-T synapses that differ from T cell receptor synapses, including the disorganized protein pattern, adjustable synapse width, diverse mechano-responding properties, and resulting signaling consequences. Through a range of examples, we illustrate how revealing the biophysical nature of the CAR-T synapse could guide the design of CAR-Ts with improved anti-tumor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Xiong
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kendra A Libby
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Xiaolei Su
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut.
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15
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Liang T, Song Y, Gu L, Wang Y, Ma W. Insight into the Progress in CAR-T Cell Therapy and Combination with Other Therapies for Glioblastoma. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:4121-4141. [PMID: 37720174 PMCID: PMC10503554 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s418837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain cancer in adults. It is always resistant to existing treatments, including surgical resection, postoperative radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, which leads to a dismal prognosis and a high relapse rate. Therefore, novel curative therapies are urgently needed for GBM. Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has significantly improved life expectancy for hematological malignancies patients, and thus it increases the interest in applying CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. In the recently published research, it is indicated that there are numerous obstacles to achieve clinical benefits for solid tumors, especially for GBM, because of GBM anatomical characteristics (the blood-brain barrier and suppressive tumor microenvironment) and the tumor heterogeneity. CAR-T cells are difficult to penetrate blood-brain barrier, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which induces CAR-T cell exhaustion, impairs CAR-T cell therapy response. Moreover, under the pressure of CAR-T cell therapy, the tumor heterogeneity and tumor plasticity drive tumor evolution and therapy resistance, such as antigen escape. Nonetheless, scientists strive for strategies to overcome these hurdles, including novel CAR-T cell designs and regional delivery. For instance, the structure of multi-antigen-targeted CAR-T cells can enrich CAR-T accumulation in tumor TME and eliminate abundant tumor cells to avoid tumor antigen heterogeneity. Additionally, paired with an immune modifier and one or more stimulating domains, different generation of innovations in the structure and manufacturing of CAR-T cells have improved efficacy and persistence. While single CAR-T cell therapy receives limited clinical survival benefit. Compared with single CAR-T cell therapy, the combination therapies have supplemented the treatment paradigm. Combinatorial treatment methods consolidate the CAR-T cells efficacy by regulating the tumor microenvironment, optimizing the CAR structure, targeting the CAR-T cells to the tumor cells, reversing the tumor-immune escape mechanisms, and represent a promising avenue against GBM, based on multiple impressive research. Moreover, exciting results are also reported to be realized through combining effective therapies with CAR-T cells in preclinical and clinical trials samples, have aroused inspiration to explore the antitumor function of combination therapies. In summary, this study aims to summarize the limitation of CAR-T cell therapies and introduces novel strategies to enhance CAR-T cell function as well as prospect the potential of the therapeutic combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yixuan Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingui Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenbin Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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16
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Pfeifer Serrahima J, Zhang C, Oberoi P, Bodden M, Röder J, Arndt C, Feldmann A, Kiefer A, Prüfer M, Kühnel I, Tonn T, Bachmann M, Wels WS. Multivalent adaptor proteins specifically target NK cells carrying a universal chimeric antigen receptor to ErbB2 (HER2)-expressing cancers. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:2905-2918. [PMID: 36688995 PMCID: PMC10412657 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03374-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered immune effector cells constitute a promising approach for adoptive cancer immunotherapy. Nevertheless, on-target/off-tumor toxicity and immune escape due to antigen loss represent considerable challenges. These may be overcome by adaptor CARs that are selectively triggered by bispecific molecules that crosslink the CAR with a tumor-associated surface antigen. Here, we generated NK cells carrying a first- or second-generation universal CAR (UniCAR) and redirected them to tumor cells with so-called target modules (TMs) which harbor an ErbB2 (HER2)-specific antibody domain for target cell binding and the E5B9 peptide recognized by the UniCAR. To investigate differential effects of the protein design on activity, we developed homodimeric TMs with one, two or three E5B9 peptides per monomer, and binding domains either directly linked or separated by an IgG4 Fc domain. The adaptor molecules were expressed as secreted proteins in Expi293F cells, purified from culture supernatants and their bispecific binding to UniCAR and ErbB2 was confirmed by flow cytometry. In cell killing experiments, all tested TMs redirected NK cell cytotoxicity selectively to ErbB2-positive tumor cells. Nevertheless, we found considerable differences in the extent of specific cell killing depending on TM design and CAR composition, with adaptor proteins carrying two or three E5B9 epitopes being more effective when combined with NK cells expressing the first-generation UniCAR, while the second-generation UniCAR was more active in the presence of TMs with one E5B9 sequence. These results may have important implications for the further development of optimized UniCAR and target module combinations for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Pfeifer Serrahima
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Congcong Zhang
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
- Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pranav Oberoi
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
- Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Malena Bodden
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jasmin Röder
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Claudia Arndt
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Anja Feldmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Anne Kiefer
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Maren Prüfer
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ines Kühnel
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Torsten Tonn
- Experimental Transfusion Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Partner Site Dresden, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, German Red Cross Blood Donation Service North-East, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Bachmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Partner Site Dresden, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and Tumor Immunology, University Cancer Center (UCC) Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Winfried S Wels
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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17
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Dabas P, Danda A. Revolutionizing cancer treatment: a comprehensive review of CAR-T cell therapy. Med Oncol 2023; 40:275. [PMID: 37608202 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02146-y] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a promising new treatment for cancer that involves genetically modifying a patient's T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. This review provides an overview of the latest discoveries and clinical trials related to CAR-T cell therapy, as well as the concept and applications of the therapy. The review also discusses the limitations and potential side effects of CAR-T cell therapy, including the high cost and the risk of cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. While CAR-T cell therapy has shown promising results in the treatment of hematologic malignancies, ongoing research is needed to improve the efficacy and safety of the therapy and expand its use to solid tumors. With continued research and development, CAR-T cell therapy has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment and improve outcomes for patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Dabas
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Adithi Danda
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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18
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Dagar G, Gupta A, Masoodi T, Nisar S, Merhi M, Hashem S, Chauhan R, Dagar M, Mirza S, Bagga P, Kumar R, Akil ASAS, Macha MA, Haris M, Uddin S, Singh M, Bhat AA. Harnessing the potential of CAR-T cell therapy: progress, challenges, and future directions in hematological and solid tumor treatments. J Transl Med 2023; 21:449. [PMID: 37420216 PMCID: PMC10327392 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04292-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional cancer treatments use nonspecific drugs and monoclonal antibodies to target tumor cells. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, however, leverages the immune system's T-cells to recognize and attack tumor cells. T-cells are isolated from patients and modified to target tumor-associated antigens. CAR-T therapy has achieved FDA approval for treating blood cancers like B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, large B-cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma by targeting CD-19 and B-cell maturation antigens. Bi-specific chimeric antigen receptors may contribute to mitigating tumor antigen escape, but their efficacy could be limited in cases where certain tumor cells do not express the targeted antigens. Despite success in blood cancers, CAR-T technology faces challenges in solid tumors, including lack of reliable tumor-associated antigens, hypoxic cores, immunosuppressive tumor environments, enhanced reactive oxygen species, and decreased T-cell infiltration. To overcome these challenges, current research aims to identify reliable tumor-associated antigens and develop cost-effective, tumor microenvironment-specific CAR-T cells. This review covers the evolution of CAR-T therapy against various tumors, including hematological and solid tumors, highlights challenges faced by CAR-T cell therapy, and suggests strategies to overcome these obstacles, such as utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing and artificial intelligence to optimize clinical-grade CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Dagar
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ashna Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Tariq Masoodi
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Nisar
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sheema Hashem
- Department of Human Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ravi Chauhan
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Manisha Dagar
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sameer Mirza
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Puneet Bagga
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Ammira S Al-Shabeeb Akil
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mayank Singh
- Department of Medical Oncology (Lab.), Dr. BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
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19
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Kokalaki E, Ma B, Ferrari M, Grothier T, Hazelton W, Manzoor S, Costu E, Taylor J, Bulek A, Srivastava S, Gannon I, Jha R, Gealy R, Stanczuk L, Rizou T, Robson M, El-Kholy M, Baldan V, Righi M, Sillibourne J, Thomas S, Onuoha S, Cordoba S, Pule M. Dual targeting of CD19 and CD22 against B-ALL using a novel high-sensitivity aCD22 CAR. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2089-2104. [PMID: 36945773 PMCID: PMC10362402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR T cells recognizing CD19 effectively treat relapsed and refractory B-ALL and DLBCL. However, CD19 loss is a frequent cause of relapse. Simultaneously targeting a second antigen, CD22, may decrease antigen escape, but is challenging: its density is approximately 10-fold less than CD19, and its large structure may hamper immune synapse formation. The characteristics of the optimal CD22 CAR are underexplored. We generated 12 distinct CD22 antibodies and tested CARs derived from them to identify a CAR based on the novel 9A8 antibody, which was sensitive to low CD22 density and lacked tonic signaling. We found no correlation between affinity or membrane proximity of recognition epitope within Ig domains 3-6 of CD22 with CART function. The optimal strategy for CD19/CD22 CART co-targeting is undetermined. Co-administration of CD19 and CD22 CARs is costly; single CARs targeting CD19 and CD22 are challenging to construct. The co-expression of two CARs has previously been achieved using bicistronic vectors. Here, we generated a dual CART product by co-transduction with 9A8-41BBζ and CAT-41BBζ (obe-cel), the previously described CD19 CAR. CAT/9A8 CART eliminated single- and double-positive target cells in vitro and eliminated CD19- tumors in vivo. CAT/9A8 CART is being tested in a phase I clinical study (NCT02443831).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Biao Ma
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Mathieu Ferrari
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Thomas Grothier
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Warren Hazelton
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Somayya Manzoor
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Eren Costu
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Julia Taylor
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Anna Bulek
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | | | - Isaac Gannon
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Ram Jha
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Rosalind Gealy
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Lukas Stanczuk
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Tatiana Rizou
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Mathew Robson
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | | | - Vania Baldan
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Matteo Righi
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | | | - Simon Thomas
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Shimobi Onuoha
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Shaun Cordoba
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK
| | - Martin Pule
- Autolus Ltd, The MediaWorks, 191 Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, UK; Department of Haematology, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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20
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Zheng Z, Li S, Liu M, Chen C, Zhang L, Zhou D. Fine-Tuning through Generations: Advances in Structure and Production of CAR-T Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3476. [PMID: 37444586 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a promising form of immunotherapy that has seen significant advancements in the past few decades. It involves genetically modifying T cells to target cancer cells expressing specific antigens, providing a novel approach to treating various types of cancer. However, the initial success of first-generation CAR-T cells was limited due to inadequate proliferation and undesirable outcomes. Nonetheless, significant progress has been made in CAR-T cell engineering, leading to the development of the latest fifth-generation CAR-T cells that can target multiple antigens and overcome individual limitations. Despite these advancements, some shortcomings prevent the widespread use of CAR-T therapy, including life-threatening toxicities, T-cell exhaustion, and inadequate infiltration for solid tumors. Researchers have made considerable efforts to address these issues by developing new strategies for improving CAR-T cell function and reducing toxicities. This review provides an overview of the path of CAR-T cell development and highlights some of the prominent advances in its structure and manufacturing process, which include the strategies to improve antigen recognition, enhance T-cell activation and persistence, and overcome immune escape. Finally, the review briefly covers other immune cells for cancer therapy and ends with the discussion on the broad prospects of CAR-T in the treatment of various diseases, not just hematological tumors, and the challenges that need to be addressed for the widespread clinical application of CAR-T cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibo Zheng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Siyuan Li
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Mohan Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Chuyan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Daobin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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21
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Chen J, Pan Z, Han L, Liu J, Yue Y, Xiao X, Zhang B, Wu M, Yuan Y, Bian Y, Jiang H, Xie Y, Zhu J. Binding domain on CD22 molecules contributing to the biological activity of T cell-engaging bispecific antibodies. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17960. [PMID: 37456045 PMCID: PMC10344817 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17960] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
CD22, as the B-cell malignancies antigen, has been targeted for immunotherapies through CAR-T cells, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and immunotoxins via interaction of antibodies with binding domains on the receptor. We hypothesized that avidity and binding domain of antibody to target cells may have significant impact on the biological function in tumor immunotherapy, and T cell-engaging bispecific antibody (TCB) targeting CD22 could be used in the therapy of hematologic malignancies. So, to address the question, we utilized the information of six previously reported CD22 mAbs to generate CD22-TCBs with different avidity to different domains on CD22 protein. We found that the avidity of CD22-TCBs to protein was not consistent with the avidity to target cells, indicating that TCBs had different binding mode to the protein and cells. In vitro results indicated that CD22-TCBs mediated cytotoxicity depended on the avidity of antibodies to target cells rather than to protein. Moreover, distal binding domain of the antigen contributed to the avidity and biological activity of IgG-[L]-scfv-like CD22-TCBs. The T cells' proliferation, activation, cytotoxicity as well as cytokine release were compared, and G5/44 BsAb was selected for further in vivo assessment in anti-tumor activity. In vivo results demonstrated that CD22-TCB (G5/44 BsAb) significantly inhibited the tumors growth in mice. All these data suggested that CD22-TCBs could be developed as a promising candidate for B-cell malignancies therapy through optimizing the design with avidity and binding domain to CD22 target in consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Zhidi Pan
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lei Han
- Jecho Institute, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Junjun Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yali Yue
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | | | - Baohong Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Mingyuan Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yunsheng Yuan
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yanlin Bian
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hua Jiang
- Jecho Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd, Tianjin, 300450, China
- Jecho Laboratories, Inc., Frederick, MD21704, USA
| | - Yueqing Xie
- Jecho Laboratories, Inc., Frederick, MD21704, USA
| | - Jianwei Zhu
- Engineering Research Center of Cell and Therapeutic Antibody, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
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22
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Mavi AK, Gaur S, Gaur G, Babita, Kumar N, Kumar U. CAR T-cell therapy: Reprogramming patient's immune cell to treat cancer. Cell Signal 2023; 105:110638. [PMID: 36822565 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110638] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a game changer in cancer treatment. Although CAR-T cell therapy has achieved significant clinical responses in specific subgroups of B cell leukaemia or lymphoma, various difficulties restrict CAR-T cell therapy's therapeutic effectiveness in solid tumours and haematological malignancies. Severe life-threatening toxicities, poor anti-tumour effectiveness, antigen escape, restricted trafficking, and limited tumour penetration are all barriers to successful CAR-T cell treatment. Furthermore, CAR-T cell interactions with the host and tumour microenvironment have a significant impact on their activity. Furthermore, developing and implementing these therapies necessitates a complicated staff. Innovative methodologies and tactics to engineering more potent CAR-T cells with greater anti-tumour activity and less toxicity are required to address these important difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar Mavi
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Sonal Gaur
- Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Jaipur, Rajasthan 304022, India
| | - Gauri Gaur
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana 133203, India
| | - Babita
- Department of Pharmacology, Sharda School of Allied Health Sciences, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201310, India
| | - Neelesh Kumar
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand 263145, India
| | - Umesh Kumar
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Management Studies Ghaziabad (University Courses Campus), NH09, Adhyatmik Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201015, India.
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23
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Segaliny AI, Jayaraman J, Chen X, Chong J, Luxon R, Fung A, Fu Q, Jiang X, Rivera R, Ma X, Ren C, Zimak J, Hedde PN, Shang Y, Wu G, Zhao W. A high throughput bispecific antibody discovery pipeline. Commun Biol 2023; 6:380. [PMID: 37029216 PMCID: PMC10082157 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04746-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) represent an emerging class of immunotherapy, but inefficiency in the current discovery has limited their broad clinical availability. Here we report a high throughput, agnostic, single-cell-based functional screening pipeline, comprising molecular and cell engineering for efficient generation of BsAb library cells, followed by functional interrogation at the single-cell level to identify and sort positive clones and downstream sequence identification and functionality characterization. Using a CD19xCD3 bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) as a model, we demonstrate that our single-cell platform possesses a high throughput screening efficiency of up to one and a half million variant library cells per run and can isolate rare functional clones at a low abundance of 0.008%. Using a complex CD19xCD3 BiTE-expressing cell library with approximately 22,300 unique variants comprising combinatorially varied scFvs, connecting linkers and VL/VH orientations, we have identified 98 unique clones, including extremely rare ones (~ 0.001% abundance). We also discovered BiTEs that exhibit novel properties and insights to design variable preferences for functionality. We expect our single-cell platform to not only increase the discovery efficiency of new immunotherapeutics, but also enable identifying generalizable design principles based on an in-depth understanding of the inter-relationships between sequence, structure, and function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jayapriya Jayaraman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Xiaoming Chen
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | | | - Ryan Luxon
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Audrey Fung
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Qiwei Fu
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Xianzhi Jiang
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | | | - Xiaoya Ma
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Ci Ren
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Jan Zimak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Per Niklas Hedde
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Yonglei Shang
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - George Wu
- Amberstone Biosciences, Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA.
| | - Weian Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Edwards Life Sciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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24
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Lakhani A, Chen X, Chen LC, Khericha M, Chen YY, Park JO. Extracellular Domains of CAR Reprogram T-Cell Metabolism Without Antigen Stimulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.03.533021. [PMID: 37066394 PMCID: PMC10103977 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.03.533021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Metabolism is an indispensable part of T-cell proliferation, activation, and exhaustion, yet the metabolism of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells remains incompletely understood. CARs are comprised of extracellular domains that determine cancer specificity, often using single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), and intracellular domains that trigger signaling upon antigen binding. Here we show that CARs differing only in the scFv reprogram T-cell metabolism differently. Even in the absence of antigens, some CARs increase proliferation and nutrient uptake in T cells. Using stable isotope tracers and mass spectrometry, we observe basal metabolic fluxes through glycolysis doubling and amino acid uptake overtaking anaplerosis in CAR-T cells harboring rituximab scFv, unlike other similar anti-CD20 scFvs. Disparate rituximab and 14g2a-based anti-GD2 CAR-T cells are similarly hypermetabolic and channel excess nutrients to nitrogen overflow metabolism. Since CAR-dependent metabolic reprogramming alters cellular energetics, nutrient utilization, and proliferation, metabolic profiling should be an integral part of CAR-T cell development.
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25
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Thomas C, Tampé R. Structure and mechanism of immunoreceptors: New horizons in T cell and B cell receptor biology and beyond. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 80:102570. [PMID: 36940642 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Immunoreceptors, also named non-catalytic tyrosine-phosphorylated receptors, are a large class of leukocyte cell-surface proteins critically involved in innate and adaptive immune responses. Their most characteristic defining feature is a shared signal transduction machinery where binding events of cell surface-anchored ligands to the small extracellular receptor domains are translated into phosphorylation of conserved tyrosine-containing cytosolic sequence motifs initiating downstream signal transduction cascades. Despite their central importance to immunology, the molecular mechanism of how ligand binding activates the receptors and results in robust intracellular signaling has remained enigmatic. Recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the architecture and triggering mechanism of immunoreceptors come from cryogenic electron microscopy studies of the B cell and T cell antigen receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Thomas
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Robert Tampé
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biocenter, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
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26
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Chimeric antigen receptor T cells therapy in solid tumors. Clin Transl Oncol 2023:10.1007/s12094-023-03122-8. [PMID: 36853399 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03122-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T cells therapy (CAR-T therapy) is a class of ACT therapy. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) is an engineered synthetic receptor of CAR-T, which give T cells the ability to recognize tumor antigens in a human leukocyte antigen-independent (HLA-independent) manner and enables them to recognize more extensive target antigens than natural T cell surface receptor (TCR), resulting in tumor destruction. CAR-T is composed of an extracellular single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of antibody, which serves as the targeting moiety, hinge region, transmembrane spacer, and intracellular signaling domain(s). CAR-T has been developing in many generations, which differ according to costimulatory domains. CAR-T therapy has several limitations that reduce its wide availability in immunotherapy which we can summarize in antigen escape that shows either partial or complete loss of target antigen expression, so multiplexing CAR-T cells are promoted to enhance targeting of tumor profiles. In addition, the large diversity in the tumor microenvironment also plays a major role in limiting this kind of treatment. Therefore, engineered CAR-T cells can evoke immunostimulatory signals that rebalance the tumor microenvironment. Using CAR-T therapy in treating the solid tumor is mainly restricted by the difficulty of CAR-T cells infiltrating the tumor site, so local administration was developed to improve the quality of treatment. The most severe toxicity after CAR-T therapy is on-target/on-tumor toxicity, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Another type of toxicity is on-target/off-tumor toxicity which originates from the binding of CAR-T cells to target antigen that has shared expression on normal cells leading to damage in healthy cells and organs. Toxicity management should become a focus of implementation to permit management beyond specialized centers.
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27
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Labanieh L, Mackall CL. CAR immune cells: design principles, resistance and the next generation. Nature 2023; 614:635-648. [PMID: 36813894 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05707-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 135.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable clinical activity of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapies in B cell and plasma cell malignancies has validated the use of this therapeutic class for liquid cancers, but resistance and limited access remain as barriers to broader application. Here we review the immunobiology and design principles of current prototype CARs and present emerging platforms that are anticipated to drive future clinical advances. The field is witnessing a rapid expansion of next-generation CAR immune cell technologies designed to enhance efficacy, safety and access. Substantial progress has been made in augmenting immune cell fitness, activating endogenous immunity, arming cells to resist suppression via the tumour microenvironment and developing approaches to modulate antigen density thresholds. Increasingly sophisticated multispecific, logic-gated and regulatable CARs display the potential to overcome resistance and increase safety. Early signs of progress with stealth, virus-free and in vivo gene delivery platforms provide potential paths for reduced costs and increased access of cell therapies in the future. The continuing clinical success of CAR T cells in liquid cancers is driving the development of increasingly sophisticated immune cell therapies that are poised to translate to treatments for solid cancers and non-malignant diseases in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louai Labanieh
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Crystal L Mackall
- Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, San Francisco, CA, USA. .,Division of Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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28
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Ghaedrahmati F, Esmaeil N, Abbaspour M. Targeting immune checkpoints: how to use natural killer cells for fighting against solid tumors. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 43:177-213. [PMID: 36585761 PMCID: PMC9926962 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are unique innate immune cells that mediate anti-viral and anti-tumor responses. Thus, they might hold great potential for cancer immunotherapy. NK cell adoptive immunotherapy in humans has shown modest efficacy. In particular, it has failed to demonstrate therapeutic efficiency in the treatment of solid tumors, possibly due in part to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which reduces NK cell immunotherapy's efficiencies. It is known that immune checkpoints play a prominent role in creating an immunosuppressive TME, leading to NK cell exhaustion and tumor immune escape. Therefore, NK cells must be reversed from their dysfunctional status and increased in their effector roles in order to improve the efficiency of cancer immunotherapy. Blockade of immune checkpoints can not only rescue NK cells from exhaustion but also augment their robust anti-tumor activity. In this review, we discussed immune checkpoint blockade strategies with a focus on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK cells to redirect NK cells to cancer cells in the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhoodeh Ghaedrahmati
- Department of ImmunologySchool of MedicineIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | - Nafiseh Esmaeil
- Department of ImmunologySchool of MedicineIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran,Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non‐Communicable DiseaseIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | - Maryam Abbaspour
- Department of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyFaculty of PharmacyIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
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29
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Asmamaw Dejenie T, Tiruneh G/Medhin M, Dessie Terefe G, Tadele Admasu F, Wale Tesega W, Chekol Abebe E. Current updates on generations, approvals, and clinical trials of CAR T-cell therapy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2114254. [PMID: 36094837 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2114254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a novel, customized immunotherapy that is considered a 'living' and self-replicating drug to treat cancer, sometimes resulting in a complete cure. CAR T-cells are manufactured through genetic engineering of T-cells by equipping them with CARs to detect and target antigen-expressing cancer cells. CAR is designed to have an ectodomain extracellularly, a transmembrane domain spanning the cell membrane, and an endodomain intracellularly. Since its first discovery, the CAR structure has evolved greatly, from the first generation to the fifth generation, to offer new therapeutic alternatives for cancer patients. This treatment has achieved long-term and curative therapeutic efficacy in multiple blood malignancies that nowadays profoundly change the treatment landscape of lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma. But CART-cell therapy is associated with several hurdles, such as limited therapeutic efficacy, little effect on solid tumors, adverse effects, expensive cost, and feasibility issues, hindering its broader implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadesse Asmamaw Dejenie
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Markeshaw Tiruneh G/Medhin
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Dessie Terefe
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Fitalew Tadele Admasu
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Science Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, Ethiopia
| | - Wondwossen Wale Tesega
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Endeshaw Chekol Abebe
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Science Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, Ethiopia
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30
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Ghazi B, El Ghanmi A, Kandoussi S, Ghouzlani A, Badou A. CAR T-cells for colorectal cancer immunotherapy: Ready to go? Front Immunol 2022; 13:978195. [PMID: 36458008 PMCID: PMC9705989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.978195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells represent a new genetically engineered cell-based immunotherapy tool against cancer. The use of CAR T-cells has revolutionized the therapeutic approach for hematological malignancies. Unfortunately, there is a long way to go before this treatment can be developed for solid tumors, including colorectal cancer. CAR T-cell therapy for colorectal cancer is still in its early stages, and clinical data are scarce. Major limitations of this therapy include high toxicity, relapses, and an impermeable tumor microenvironment for CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer. In this review, we summarize current knowledge, highlight challenges, and discuss perspectives regarding CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra Ghazi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Adil El Ghanmi
- Mohammed VI International University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sarah Kandoussi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Amina Ghouzlani
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
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31
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Khamaisi B, Luca VC, Blacklow SC, Sprinzak D. Functional Comparison between Endogenous and Synthetic Notch Systems. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:3343-3353. [PMID: 36107643 PMCID: PMC9594772 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The Notch pathway converts receptor-ligand interactions at the cell surface into a transcriptional response in the receiver cell. In recent years, synthetic Notch systems (synNotch) that respond to different inputs and transduce different transcriptional responses have been engineered. One class of synNotch systems uses antibody-antigen interactions at the cell surface to induce the proteolytic cleavage cascade of the endogenous Notch autoregulatory core and the consequent release of a synNotch intracellular domain (ICD), converting surface antigen detection into a cellular response. While the activation of endogenous Notch requires ubiquitylation and subsequent endocytosis of the ligand ICD, these synNotch systems do not seem to have such a requirement because the synNotch ligands completely lack an ICD. This observation raises questions about existing models for the synNotch activation mechanism. Here, we test how different structural and biochemical factors affect the dependence of endogenous and synthetic Notch activation on ligand ICD. We compare the behavior of antibody-antigen synNotch (aa-synNotch) to that of endogenous Notch, and to a synNotch system that uses rapamycin induced dimerization of FK506 binding protein (FKBP) and FKBP rapamycin binding (FRB) domaindimerization domains (ff-synNotch), which still requires a ligand ICD. We found that differences in receptor-ligand affinity, in the identity of the transmembrane domain, or in the presence or absence of extracellular epidermal growth factor repeats cannot explain the differences in ligand ICD requirement that distinguishes aa-synNotch from endogenous Notch or ff-synNotch. We also found that unlike endogenous Notch and ff-synNotch, the aa-synNotch system does not exhibit trans-endocytosis of the receptor extracellular domain into the sender cell. These findings suggest that the aa-synNotch systems bypass the ligand ICD requirement because antigen-antibody pairs are able to promote other adhesive cell-cell interactions that provide the mechanical tension needed for ligand activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassma Khamaisi
- George
S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry,
and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Vincent C. Luca
- Department
of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center
and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - Stephen C. Blacklow
- Department
of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - David Sprinzak
- George
S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry,
and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,
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32
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Huang S, Segués A, Waterfall M, Wright D, Vayssiere C, van Duijnhoven SMJ, van Elsas A, Sijts AJAM, Zaiss DM. Shortened Hinge Design of Fab x sdAb-Fc Bispecific Antibodies Enhances Redirected T-Cell Killing of Tumor Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1331. [PMID: 36291540 PMCID: PMC9599842 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101331] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
T cell engager (TCE) antibodies have emerged as promising cancer therapeutics that link cytotoxic T-cells to tumor cells by simultaneously binding to CD3E on T-cells and to a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) expressed by tumor cells. We previously reported a novel bispecific format, the IgG-like Fab x sdAb-Fc (also known as half-IG_VH-h-CH2-CH3), combining a conventional antigen-binding fragment (Fab) with a single domain antibody (sdAb). Here, we evaluated this Fab x sdAb-Fc format as a T-cell redirecting bispecific antibody (TbsAbs) by targeting mEGFR on tumor cells and mCD3E on T cells. We focused our attention specifically on the hinge design of the sdAb arm of the bispecific antibody. Our data show that a TbsAb with a shorter hinge of 23 amino acids (TbsAb.short) showed a significantly better T cell redirected tumor cell elimination than the TbsAb with a longer, classical antibody hinge of 39 amino acids (TbsAb.long). Moreover, the TbsAb.short form mediated better T cell-tumor cell aggregation and increased CD69 and CD25 expression levels on T cells more than the TbsAb.long form. Taken together, our results indicate that already minor changes in the hinge design of TbsAbs can have significant impact on the anti-tumor activity of TbsAbs and may provide a new means to improve their potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Huang
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aina Segués
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Waterfall
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - David Wright
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Charlotte Vayssiere
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | | | | | - Alice J. A. M. Sijts
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dietmar M. Zaiss
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
- Department of Immune Medicine, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Abstract
As the targets of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells expand to a variety of cancers, autoimmune diseases, viral infections, and fibrosis, there is an increasing demand for identifying new antigens and designing new CARs that can be effectively activated. However, the rational selection of antigens and the design of CARs are limited by a lack of knowledge regarding the molecular mechanism by which CARs are activated by antigens. Here, we present data supporting a "size exclusion" model explaining how antigen signals are transmitted across the plasma membrane to activate the intracellular domains of CARs. In this model, antigen engagement with CAR results in a narrow intermembrane space that physically excludes CD45, a bulky phosphatase, out of the CAR zone, thus favoring CAR phosphorylation by kinases, which further triggers downstream pathways leading to T cell activation. Aligned with this model, increasing the size of CAR extracellular domains diminished CAR-T activation both in vitro and in a mouse lymphoma model; membrane-proximal epitopes activated CAR-Ts better than membrane-distal epitopes. Moreover, increasing the size of CD45 by antibody conjugation enhanced the activation of CARs that recognize membrane-distal epitopes. Consistently, CAR-Ts expressing CD45RABC, the larger isoform, were activated to a higher level than those expressing a smaller isoform CD45RO. Together, our work revealed that CAR-T activation depends on the size difference between the CAR-antigen pair and CD45; the size of CAR, antigen, and CD45 can thus be targets for tuning CAR-T activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA,Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Cancer Immunology and Metabolism Center of Excellence, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA,Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Xinyan Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Liqun Tu
- Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Cancer Immunology and Metabolism Center of Excellence, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA
| | - Jian Cao
- Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Cancer Immunology and Metabolism Center of Excellence, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA,Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Christian S. Hinrichs
- Duncan and Nancy MacMillan Cancer Immunology and Metabolism Center of Excellence, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA,Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Xiaolei Su
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA,Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA,Corresponding author: Xiaolei Su,
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34
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Caraballo Galva LD, Jiang X, Hussein MS, Zhang H, Mao R, Brody P, Peng Y, He AR, Kehinde-Ige M, Sadek R, Qiu X, Shi H, He Y. Novel low-avidity glypican-3 specific CARTs resist exhaustion and mediate durable antitumor effects against HCC. Hepatology 2022; 76:330-344. [PMID: 34897774 PMCID: PMC10568540 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Chimeric antigen receptor engineered T cells (CARTs) for HCC and other solid tumors are not as effective as they are for blood cancers. CARTs may lose function inside tumors due to persistent antigen engagement. The aims of this study are to develop low-affinity monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and low-avidity CARTs for HCC and to test the hypothesis that low-avidity CARTs can resist exhaustion and maintain functions in solid tumors, generating durable antitumor effects. METHODS AND RESULTS New human glypican-3 (hGPC3) mAbs were developed from immunized mice. We obtained three hGPC3-specific mAbs that stained HCC tumors, but not the adjacent normal liver tissues. One of them, 8F8, bound an epitope close to that of GC33, the frequently used high-affinity mAb, but with approximately 17-fold lower affinity. We then compared the 8F8 CARTs to GC33 CARTs for their in vitro function and in vivo antitumor effects. In vitro, low-avidity 8F8 CARTs killed both hGPC3high and hGPC3low HCC tumor cells to the same extent as high-avidity GC33 CARTs. 8F8 CARTs expanded and persisted to a greater extent than GC33 CARTs, resulting in durable responses against HCC xenografts. Importantly, compared with GC33 CARTs, there were 5-fold more of 8F8-BBz CARTs in the tumor mass for a longer period of time. Remarkably, the tumor-infiltrating 8F8 CARTs were less exhausted and apoptotic, and more functional than GC33 CARTs. CONCLUSION The low-avidity 8F8-BBz CART resists exhaustion and apoptosis inside tumor lesions, demonstrating a greater therapeutic potential than high-avidity CARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaotao Jiang
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mohamed S. Hussein
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Huajun Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Rui Mao
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Pierce Brody
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yibing Peng
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Aiwu Ruth He
- Lombardi Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Mercy Kehinde-Ige
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ramses Sadek
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xiangguo Qiu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Huidong Shi
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yukai He
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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35
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Developing ROR1 Targeting CAR-T Cells against Solid Tumors in Preclinical Studies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153618. [PMID: 35892876 PMCID: PMC9331269 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T-cells (CAR-T) have demonstrated promising clinical benefits against B-cell malignancies. Yet, its application for solid tumors is still facing challenges. Unlike haematological cancers, solid tumors often lack good targets, which are ideally expressed on the tumor cells, but not by the normal healthy cells. Fortunately, receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is among a few good cancer targets that is aberrantly expressed on various tumors but has a low expression on normal tissue, suggesting it as a good candidate for CAR-T therapy. Here, we constructed two ROR1 CARs with the same antigen recognition domain that was derived from Zilovertamab but differing in hinge regions. Both CARs target ROR1+ cancer cells specifically, but CAR with a shorter IgG4 hinge exhibits a higher surface expression and better in vitro functionality. We further tested the ROR1 CAR-T in three human solid tumor xenografted mouse models. Our ROR1 CAR-T cells controlled the solid tumor growth without causing any severe toxicity. Our results demonstrated that ROR1 CAR-T derived from Zilovertamab is efficacious and safe to suppress ROR1+ solid tumors in vitro and in vivo, providing a promising therapeutic option for future clinical application.
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36
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Li G, Wang H, Wu H, Chen J. B7-H3-targeted CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. Int Rev Immunol 2022; 41:625-637. [PMID: 35855615 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2022.2102619] [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: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Since B7-H3 is overexpressed or amplified in many types of solid tumors with a restricted expression in the normal tissues, it has been an emerging immunotherapeutic target for solid tumors. This review will focus on the structural designs of developing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeting B7-H3. The expression, receptor, and function of the B7-H3, as well as a short overview of B7-H3-targeted monoclonal antibody therapy, are discussed. Finally, a detailed summary of B7-H3 redirected CAR-T and CAR-NK cell approaches utilized in preclinical models and currently ongoing or completed clinical trials are presented. It has been demonstrated that B7-H3-targeted CAR-based cell therapies were safe in initial trials, but their efficacy was limited. Employing the local delivery routes, the introduction of novel modifications promoting CAR-T persistence, and combined treatment with other standard therapies could improve the efficacy of B7-H3-targeted CAR-T cell therapy against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangfei Li
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haopeng Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Chen
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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37
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Tian M, Cheuk AT, Wei JS, Abdelmaksoud A, Chou HC, Milewski D, Kelly MC, Song YK, Dower CM, Li N, Qin H, Kim YY, Wu JT, Wen X, Benzaoui M, Masih KE, Wu X, Zhang Z, Badr S, Taylor N, Croix BS, Ho M, Khan J. An optimized bicistronic chimeric antigen receptor against GPC2 or CD276 overcomes heterogeneous expression in neuroblastoma. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:155621. [PMID: 35852863 PMCID: PMC9374382 DOI: 10.1172/jci155621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meijie Tian
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Adam T. Cheuk
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jun S. Wei
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Abdalla Abdelmaksoud
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Hsien-Chao Chou
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - David Milewski
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael C. Kelly
- Single Cell Analysis Facility, Center for Cancer Research, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Young K. Song
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher M. Dower
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Nan Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research and
| | - Haiying Qin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Yong Yean Kim
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jerry T. Wu
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xinyu Wen
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mehdi Benzaoui
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Katherine E. Masih
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaolin Wu
- Cancer Research Technology Program, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhongmei Zhang
- Experimental Immunology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sherif Badr
- Experimental Immunology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Naomi Taylor
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Brad St. Croix
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Mitchell Ho
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research and
| | - Javed Khan
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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38
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López-Cantillo G, Urueña C, Camacho BA, Ramírez-Segura C. CAR-T Cell Performance: How to Improve Their Persistence? Front Immunol 2022; 13:878209. [PMID: 35572525 PMCID: PMC9097681 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.878209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy with T cells reprogrammed to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR-T cells) has been highly successful in patients with hematological neoplasms. However, its therapeutic benefits have been limited in solid tumor cases. Even those patients who respond to this immunotherapy remain at risk of relapse due to the short-term persistence or non-expansion of CAR-T cells; moreover, the hostile tumor microenvironment (TME) leads to the dysfunction of these cells after reinfusion. Some research has shown that, in adoptive T-cell therapies, the presence of less differentiated T-cell subsets within the infusion product is associated with better clinical outcomes. Naive and memory T cells persist longer and exhibit greater antitumor activity than effector T cells. Therefore, new methods are being studied to overcome the limitations of this therapy to generate CAR-T cells with these ideal phenotypes. In this paper, we review the characteristics of T-cell subsets and their implications in the clinical outcomes of adoptive therapy with CAR-T cells. In addition, we describe some strategies developed to overcome the reduced persistence of CAR T-cells and alternatives to improve this therapy by increasing the expansion ability and longevity of modified T cells. These methods include cell culture optimization, incorporating homeostatic cytokines during the expansion phase of manufacturing, modulation of CAR-T cell metabolism, manipulating signaling pathways involved in T-cell differentiation, and strategies related to CAR construct designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina López-Cantillo
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claudia Urueña
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Cesar Ramírez-Segura
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto Distrital de Ciencia Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
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39
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Boettcher M, Joechner A, Li Z, Yang SF, Schlegel P. Development of CAR T Cell Therapy in Children-A Comprehensive Overview. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082158. [PMID: 35456250 PMCID: PMC9024694 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR T cell therapy has revolutionized immunotherapy in the last decade with the successful establishment of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-expressing cellular therapies as an alternative treatment in relapsed and refractory CD19-positive leukemias and lymphomas. There are fundamental reasons why CAR T cell therapy has been approved by the Food and Drug administration and the European Medicines Agency for pediatric and young adult patients first. Commonly, novel therapies are developed for adult patients and then adapted for pediatric use, due to regulatory and commercial reasons. Both strategic and biological factors have supported the success of CAR T cell therapy in children. Since there is an urgent need for more potent and specific therapies in childhood malignancies, efforts should also include the development of CAR therapeutics and expand applicability by introducing new technologies. Basic aspects, the evolution and the drawbacks of childhood CAR T cell therapy are discussed as along with the latest clinically relevant information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Boettcher
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Alexander Joechner
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia;
- Cellular Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney 2145, Australia; (Z.L.); (S.F.Y.)
| | - Ziduo Li
- Cellular Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney 2145, Australia; (Z.L.); (S.F.Y.)
| | - Sile Fiona Yang
- Cellular Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney 2145, Australia; (Z.L.); (S.F.Y.)
| | - Patrick Schlegel
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia;
- Cellular Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney 2145, Australia; (Z.L.); (S.F.Y.)
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Sydney 2145, Australia
- Correspondence:
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40
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The Effects of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) Hinge Domain Post-Translational Modifications on CAR-T Cell Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074056. [PMID: 35409419 PMCID: PMC8999629 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
To improve the efficacy and safety of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-expressing T cell therapeutics through enhanced CAR design, we analysed CAR structural factors that affect CAR-T cell function. We studied the effects of disulphide bonding at cysteine residues and glycosylation in the HD on CAR-T function. We used first-generation CAR[V/28/28/3z] and CAR[V/8a/8a/3z], consisting of a mouse vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)-specific single-chain variable fragment tandemly linked to CD28- or CD8α-derived HD, transmembrane domain (TMD) and a CD3ζ-derived signal transduction domain (STD). We constructed structural variants by substituting cysteine with alanine and asparagine (putative N-linked glycosylation sites) with aspartate. CAR[V/28/28/3z] and CAR[V/8a/8a/3z] formed homodimers, the former through a single HD cysteine residue and the latter through the more TMD-proximal of the two cysteine residues. The absence of disulphide bonds did not affect membrane CAR expression but reduced antigen-specific cytokine production and cytotoxic activity. CAR[V/28/28/3z] and CAR[V/8a/8a/3z] harboured one N-linked glycosylation site, and CAR[V/8a/8a/3z] underwent considerable O-linked glycosylation at an unknown site. Thus, N-linked glycosylation of CAR[V/28/28/3z] promotes stable membrane CAR expression, while having no effect on the expression or CAR-T cell activity of CAR[V/8a/8a/3z]. Our findings demonstrate that post-translational modifications of the CAR HD influence CAR-T cell activity, establishing a basis for future CAR design.
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41
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Panowski SH, Srinivasan S, Tan N, Tacheva-Grigorova SK, Smith B, Mak Y, Ning H, Villanueva J, Wijewarnasuriya D, Lang S, Melton Z, Ghosh A, Dusseaux M, Galetto R, Heyen JR, Sai T, Van Blarcom TJ, Chaparro-Riggers J, Sasu BJ. Preclinical Development and Evaluation of Allogeneic CAR T Cells Targeting CD70 for the Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2610-2624. [PMID: 35294525 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-2931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CD70 is highly expressed in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), with limited expression in normal tissue, making it an attractive CAR T target for an immunogenic solid tumor indication. Here we generated and characterized a panel of anti-CD70 scFv-based CAR T cells. Despite the expression of CD70 on T cells, production of CAR T from a subset of scFvs with potent in vitro activity was achieved. Expression of CD70 CARs masked CD70 detection in cis and provide protection from CD70 CAR T-mediated fratricide. Two distinct classes of CAR T cells were identified with differing memory phenotype, activation status, and cytotoxic activity. Epitope mapping revealed that the two classes of CARs bind unique regions of CD70. CD70 CAR T cells displayed robust antitumor activity against RCC cell lines and patient-derived xenograft mouse models. Tissue cross-reactivity studies identified membrane staining in lymphocytes, thus matching the known expression pattern of CD70. In a cynomolgus monkey CD3-CD70 bispecific toxicity study, expected findings related to T cell activation and elimination of CD70-expressing cells were observed, including cytokine release and loss of cellularity in lymphoid tissues. Lastly, highly functional CD70 allogeneic CAR T cells were produced at large scale through elimination of the T cell receptor by TALEN-based gene editing. Taken together, these efficacy and safety data support the evaluation of CD70 CAR T cells for the treatment of RCC and has led to the advancement of an allogeneic CD70 CAR T candidate into phase I clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nguyen Tan
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Bryan Smith
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Yvonne Mak
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Hongxiu Ning
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Shanshan Lang
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Zea Melton
- Allogene Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Adit Ghosh
- Allogene Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Tao Sai
- Pfizer Inc, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Barbra J Sasu
- Allogene Therapuetics Inc, South San Francisco, CA, United States
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42
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Poorebrahim M, Quiros-Fernandez I, Fakhr E, Cid-Arregui A. Generation of CAR-T cells using lentiviral vectors. Methods Cell Biol 2022; 167:39-69. [PMID: 35152998 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is nowadays largely focused on the development of therapeutic antibodies and chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). Two CARs targeting CD19 have been approved recently for the treatment of some hematological malignancies. This demonstrates the capability of engineered CAR T cells in generating effective tumor responses. Furthermore, several hundred ongoing clinical trials are exploring the feasibility of CAR-based approaches to target tumor-associated antigens in solid tumors. However, there still remain significant challenges and limitations in the design and production of CAR-modified T cells that need to be addressed, such as more effective transduction methods, expression and exhaustion issues, reliable in vitro and in vivo characterization methods, etc. Here we describe current techniques for generating CAR T cells using lentiviral vectors as well as detailed protocols for their functional characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Poorebrahim
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Group, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Isaac Quiros-Fernandez
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Group, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elham Fakhr
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Group, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Angel Cid-Arregui
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Group, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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The interplay between membrane topology and mechanical forces in regulating T cell receptor activity. Commun Biol 2022; 5:40. [PMID: 35017678 PMCID: PMC8752658 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02995-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells are critically important for host defense against infections. T cell activation is specific because signal initiation requires T cell receptor (TCR) recognition of foreign antigen peptides presented by major histocompatibility complexes (pMHC) on antigen presenting cells (APCs). Recent advances reveal that the TCR acts as a mechanoreceptor, but it remains unclear how pMHC/TCR engagement generates mechanical forces that are converted to intracellular signals. Here we propose a TCR Bending Mechanosignal (TBM) model, in which local bending of the T cell membrane on the nanometer scale allows sustained contact of relatively small pMHC/TCR complexes interspersed among large surface receptors and adhesion molecules on the opposing surfaces of T cells and APCs. Localized T cell membrane bending is suggested to increase accessibility of TCR signaling domains to phosphorylation, facilitate selective recognition of agonists that form catch bonds, and reduce noise signals associated with slip bonds. Al-Aghbar et al propose a TCR bending mechanosignal model that demonstrates how local mechanical membrane bending may influence T cell receptor binding events and thus T-cell activation.
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Hanssens H, Meeus F, De Veirman K, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. The antigen-binding moiety in the driver's seat of CARs. Med Res Rev 2022; 42:306-342. [PMID: 34028069 PMCID: PMC9292017 DOI: 10.1002/med.21818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immuno-oncology has been at the forefront of cancer treatment in recent decades. In particular immune checkpoint and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy have achieved spectacular results. Over the years, CAR-T cell development has followed a steady evolutionary path, focusing on increasing T cell potency and sustainability, which has given rise to different CAR generations. However, there was less focus on the mode of interaction between the CAR-T cell and the cancer cell; more specifically on the targeting moiety used in the CAR and its specific properties. Recently, the importance of optimizing this domain has been recognized and the possibilities have been exploited. Over the last 10 years-in addition to the classical scFv-based CARs-single domain CARs, natural receptor-ligand CARs, universal CARs and CARs targeting more than one antigen have emerged. In addition, the specific parameters of the targeting domain and their influence on T cell activation are being examined. In this review, we concisely present the history of CAR-T cell therapy, and then expand on various developments in the CAR ectodomain. We discuss different formats, each with their own advantages and disadvantages, as well as the developments in affinity tuning, avidity effects, epitope location, and influence of the extracellular spacer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heleen Hanssens
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging LaboratoryVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- Laboratory of Hematology and ImmunologyVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical SciencesVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging LaboratoryVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical SciencesVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Laboratory of Hematology and ImmunologyVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical SciencesVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging LaboratoryVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
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Sheykhhasan M, Manoochehri H, Dama P. Use of CAR T-cell for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment: a review study. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:1080-1096. [PMID: 34987176 PMCID: PMC9395272 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00418-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a cancer-specific lymphoid cell. Induction and consolidation chemotherapy alone or in combination with different therapeutic approaches remain the main treatment. Although complete or partial remission of the disease can be achieved, the risk of relapse or refractory leukemia is still high. More effective and safe therapy options are yet unmet needs. In recent years' new therapeutic approaches have been widely used. Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) presents significant limitations and the outcome of the consolidation treatment is patient dependent. Side effects such as Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD) in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are extremely common, therefore, using alternative methods to address these challenges for treatment seems crucial. In the last decade, T cells genetically engineered with Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) treatment for the ALL are largely studied and represent the new era of strategy. According to the Phase I/II clinical trials, this technology results seem very promising and can be used in the next future as an effective and safe treatment for ALL treatment. In this review different generations, challenges, and clinical studies related to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells for ALL treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Sheykhhasan
- grid.411950.80000 0004 0611 9280Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran ,Department of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom, Iran
| | - Hamed Manoochehri
- grid.411950.80000 0004 0611 9280Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Paola Dama
- Research Fellow School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
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Natural Receptor- and Ligand-Based Chimeric Antigen Receptors: Strategies Using Natural Ligands and Receptors for Targeted Cell Killing. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010021. [PMID: 35011583 PMCID: PMC8750724 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has been widely successful in the treatment of B-cell malignancies, including B-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma; and three generations of CAR designs have led to effective FDA approved therapeutics. Traditionally, CAR antigen specificity is derived from a monoclonal antibody where the variable heavy (VH) and variable light (VL) chains are connected by a peptide linker to form a single-chain variable fragment (scFv). While this provides a level of antigen specificity parallel to that of an antibody and has shown great success in the clinic, this design is not universally successful. For instance, issues of stability, immunogenicity, and antigen escape hinder the translational application of some CARs. As an alternative, natural receptor- or ligand-based designs may prove advantageous in some circumstances compared to scFv-based designs. Herein, the advantages and disadvantages of scFv-based and natural receptor- or ligand-based CAR designs are discussed. In addition, several translational aspects of natural receptor- and ligand-based CAR approaches that are being investigated in preclinical and clinical studies will be examined.
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Upregulation of CD22 by Chidamide promotes CAR T cells functionality. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20637. [PMID: 34667217 PMCID: PMC8526578 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment failure or relapse due to tumor escape caused by reduction in target antigen expression has become a challenge in the field of CART therapy. Target antigen density is closely related to the effectiveness of CART therapy, and reduced or lost target antigen expression limits the efficacy of CART therapy and hinders the durability of CAR T cells. Epigenetic drugs can regulate histones for molecular modifications to regulate the transcriptional, translational and post-translational modification processes of target agents, and we demonstrated for the first time the role in regulating CD22 expression and its effect on the efficacy of CD22 CART. In this paper, we found that Chidamide promoted the expression of CD22 on the surface of B-cell tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, and enhanced the function of CD22 CART. As for mechanisms, we demonstrated that Chidamide did not affect CD22 mRNA transcription, but significantly increased the expression of total CD22 protein, indicating that Chidamide may upregulate cell surface CD22 expression by affecting the distribution of CD22 protein. In summary, our results suggest that Chidamide may enhance the efficacy of CD22 CART by inhibiting histone deacetylases to regulate post-transcriptional modifications that affect protein distribution to increase the expression of CD22 on the cell surface.
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Heard A, Chang J, Warrington JM, Singh N. Advances in CAR design. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2021; 34:101304. [PMID: 34625230 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2021.101304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have revolutionized the management of B cell malignancies. These synthetic molecules are composed of peptide fragments from several distinct immune cell proteins and link highly-specific antigen recognition with potent T cell activation. Despite impressive results in many, less than half of patients treated will achieve durable remission after CAR therapy. Recent studies have identified the central role that each structural component of the CAR molecule plays in regulating T cell function. Significant effort has been dedicated to exploring strategies to improve the design of CARs themselves or integrate their activity with other regulatory circuits to enable more precise function. In this review, we will summarize recent pre-clinical and clinical studies that have evaluated novel CAR design formats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Heard
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Jufang Chang
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - John M Warrington
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Nathan Singh
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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Trapping or slowing the diffusion of T cell receptors at close contacts initiates T cell signaling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2024250118. [PMID: 34526387 PMCID: PMC8488633 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2024250118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell activation is initiated by T cell receptor (TCR) phosphorylation. This requires the local depletion of large receptor-type phosphatases from "close contacts" formed when T cells interact with surfaces presenting agonistic TCR ligands, but exactly how the ligands potentiate signaling is unclear. It has been proposed that TCR ligands could enhance receptor phosphorylation and signaling just by holding TCRs in phosphatase-depleted close contacts, but this has not been directly tested. We devised simple methods to move the TCR in and out of close contacts formed by T cells interacting with supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) and to slow the receptor's diffusion in the contacts, using a series of anti-CD3ε Fab- and ligand-based adducts of the receptor. TCRs engaging a Fab extended with the large extracellular region of CD45 were excluded from contacts and produced no signaling. Conversely, allowing the extended Fab to become tethered to the SLB trapped the TCR in the close contacts, leading to very strong signaling. Importantly, attaching untethered anti-CD3ε Fab or peptide/MHC ligands, each of which were largely inactive in solution but both of which reduced TCR diffusion in close contacts approximately fivefold, also initiated signaling during cell/SLB contact. Our findings indicate that holding TCRs in close contacts or simply slowing their diffusion in phosphatase-depleted regions of the cell surface suffices to initiate signaling, effects we could reproduce in single-particle stochastic simulations. Our study shows that the TCR is preconfigured for signaling in a way that allows it to be triggered by ligands acting simply as receptor "traps."
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Yoo HJ, Harapan BN. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) immunotherapy: basic principles, current advances, and future prospects in neuro-oncology. Immunol Res 2021; 69:471-486. [PMID: 34554405 PMCID: PMC8580929 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-021-09236-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
With recent advances, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) immunotherapy has become a promising modality for patients with refractory cancer diseases. The successful results of CAR T cell therapy in relapsed and refractory B-cell malignancies shifted the paradigm of cancer immunotherapy by awakening the scientific, clinical, and commercial interest in translating this technology for the treatment of solid cancers. This review elaborates on fundamental principles of CAR T cell therapy (development of CAR construct, challenges of CAR T cell therapy) and its application on solid tumors as well as CAR T cell therapy potential in the field of neuro-oncology. Glioblastoma (GBM) is identified as one of the most challenging solid tumors with a permissive immunological milieu and dismal prognosis. Standard multimodal treatment using maximal safe resection, radiochemotherapy, and maintenance chemotherapy extends the overall survival beyond a year. Recurrence is, however, inevitable. GBM holds several unique features including its vast intratumoral heterogeneity, immunosuppressive environment, and a partially permissive anatomic blood–brain barrier, which offers a unique opportunity to investigate new treatment approaches. Tremendous efforts have been made in recent years to investigate novel CAR targets and target combinations with standard modalities for solid tumors and GBM to improve treatment efficacy. In this review, we outline the history of CAR immunotherapy development, relevant CAR target antigens validated with CAR T cells as well as preclinical approaches in combination with adjunct approaches via checkpoint inhibition, bispecific antibodies, and second-line systemic therapies that enhance anticancer efficacy of the CAR-based cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Joo Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Biyan Nathanael Harapan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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