Sigma1 inhibitor suppression of adaptive immune resistance mechanisms mediated by cancer cell derived extracellular vesicles

Adaptive immune resistance in cancer describes the various mechanisms by which tumors adapt to evade anti-tumor immune responses. IFN-γ induction of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) was the first defined and validated adaptive immune resistance mechanism. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is central to adaptive immune resistance as immune modulatory secreted and integral membrane proteins are dependent on ER. Sigma1 is a unique ligand-regulated integral membrane scaffolding protein enriched in the ER of cancer cells. PD-L1 is an integral membrane glycoprotein that is translated into the ER and processed through the cellular secretory pathway. At the cell surface, PD-L1 is an immune checkpoint molecule that binds PD-1 on activated T-cells and blocks anti-tumor immunity. PD-L1 can also be incorporated into cancer cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), and EV-associated PD-L1 can inactivate T-cells within the tumor microenvironment. Here, we demonstrate that a selective small molecule inhibitor of Sigma1 can block IFN-γ mediated adaptive immune resistance in part by altering the incorporation of PD-L1 into cancer cell-derived EVs. Sigma1 inhibition blocked post-translational maturation of PD-L1 downstream of IFN-γ/STAT1 signaling. Subsequently, EVs released in response to IFN-γ stimulation were significantly less potent suppressors of T-cell activation. These results suggest that by reducing tumor derived immune suppressive EVs, Sigma1 inhibition may promote antitumor immunity. Sigma1 modulation presents a novel approach to regulating the tumor immune microenvironment by altering the content and production of EVs. Altogether, these data support the notion that Sigma1 may play a role in adaptive immune resistance in the tumor microenvironment.

Global research trends of immunosenescence and immunotherapy: A bibliometric study

Immunosenescence refers to the gradual decline in immune system function with age, increasing susceptibility to infections and cancer in the elderly. The advent of novel immunotherapies has revolutionized the field of cancer treatment. However, the majority of patients exhibit poor re-sponses to immunotherapy, with immunosenescence likely playing a significant role. In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the interplay between immunosenescence and immunotherapy. Our research aims to explore the prospects and development trends in the field of immunosenescence and immunotherapy using a bibliometric analysis. Relevant articles were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) (retrieved on July 20, 2024). Primary bibliometric characteristics were analyzed using the R package "Biblio-metrix," and keyword co-occurrence analysis and visualization were conducted using VOSviewer. A total of 213 English-language original research and review articles spanning 35 years were re-trieved for bibliometric analysis. There was a surge in publications in this field starting in 2017. The United States and China contributed the most articles. Frontiers in Immunology was the most productive journal, while the University of California System was the highest contributing institution. Besse Benjamin from France emerged as the most influential researcher in this field. Popular keywords included "nivolumab," "T cells," "dendritic cells," and "regulatory T cells." The "immunosenescence-associated secretory phenotype" has become a new hotspot, with immune checkpoint inhibitors remaining a central theme in this domain. The field of immunosenescence and immunotherapy is entering a phase of rapid development and will continue to hold significant value in future research.

The role of cisplatin in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and its combination therapy strategies: a new approach to enhance anti-tumor efficacy

Cisplatin is a platinum-based drug that is frequently used to treat multiple tumors. The anti-tumor effect of cisplatin is closely related to the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), which includes several immune cell types, such as the tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T cells (Tregs), and natural killer (NK) cells. The interaction between these immune cells can promote tumor survival and chemoresistance, and decrease the efficacy of cisplatin monotherapy. Therefore, various combination treatment strategies have been devised to enhance patient responsiveness to cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin can augment anti-tumor immune responses in combination with immune checkpoint blockers (such as PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA4 inhibitors), lipid metabolism disruptors (like FASN inhibitors and SCD inhibitors) and nanoparticles (NPs), resulting in better outcomes. Exploring the interaction between cisplatin and the TIME will help identify potential therapeutic targets for improving the treatment outcomes in cancer patients.

Targeting the atypical chemokine receptor 2 (Ackr2) improves the benefit of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma mouse model

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies, such as anti-PD-1, have transformed cancer treatment, but many patients do not respond due to a non-inflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we investigated the impact of targeting Atypical Chemokine Receptor 2 (ACKR2), which scavenges key chemokines involved in immune cell recruitment, on the improvement of anti-PD-1-based therapy. In a melanoma mouse model, we demonstrated that Ackr2 inhibition increases the release of proinflammatory chemokines CCL5 and CXCL10 and enhances the infiltration of NK cells, activated CD8+ and CD4+ effector T cells while reducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the TME. Targeting Ackr2 led to tumor growth inhibition, improved survival, and enhanced response to anti-PD-1 therapy. In BRAF- and NRAS-mutant melanoma patients, low ACKR2 expression or high CCL5/CXCL10 levels correlated with improved survival and higher CD8+ T cell markers. Targeting ACKR2 represents a promising approach for developing combination therapies, particularly for 'cold' ICB resistant tumors.

Neoantigen mRNA vaccines and A2A receptor antagonism: A strategy to enhance T cell immunity

Although neo-antigen mRNA vaccines are promising for personalized cancer therapy, their effectiveness is often limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) inhibits dendritic cell (DC) function and weakens antitumor T cell responses through hypoxia-driven mechanisms within the TME. This review explores a novel strategy combining neo-antigen mRNA vaccines with A2AR antagonists (A2ARi). By targeting A2AR, this approach reduces TME-induced immunosuppression, enhances DC activation, and improves neo-antigen presentation. The review also discusses lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to co-deliver A2ARi and mRNA vaccines, optimizing their effectiveness. The integration of neo-antigen mRNA-LNPs with A2ARi modulation offers a promising strategy to overcome immunosuppression, stimulate DC activation, and achieve precise anti-tumor responses with minimal off-target effects. This synergy represents significant progress in cancer immunotherapy, advancing the potential for personalized neoantigen therapies.

Translational lessons from the balanced immune system in bats

Bats are a natural reservoir for a wide variety of notorious viruses that are deadly to humans and other mammals but cause no or minimal clinical damage in bats. The co-evolution of bats and viruses for more than sixty million years has established unique and balanced immune defenses within bats against a number of viruses. With the COVID-19 pandemic, bats have gained greater attention as a likely reservoir of the SARS-CoV-2 ancestor virus. The coupling of omics technology and bat research opens an exciting new field to understand and translate discoveries from bats to humans, in the context of infectious disease and beyond. Here, we focus on the mechanism of immunity balance in bats, the application of omics and how this might lead to improvement of human health.

Enhancing PD-1 blockade in NSCLC: Reprogramming tumor immune microenvironment with albumin-bound statins targeting lipid rafts and mitochondrial respiration

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has shown limited response to immunotherapy, primarily due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment characterized by hypoxia and lipid raft formation, which together inhibit T-cell infiltration and function, impeding effective immune responses. To address these challenges, we developed Abstatin, an albumin-bound fluvastatin formulation that targets lipid raft disruption and mitochondrial respiration inhibition, aiming to reduce hypoxia and destabilize lipid rafts to enhance T-cell activity within the tumor. Using bioinformatics analysis, in vitro assays, and in vivo studies in both murine and humanized PDX models, we demonstrated that Abstatin reprograms the NSCLC microenvironment by concurrently lowering hypoxia levels and lipid raft integrity, thereby restoring T-cell infiltration, enhancing cytotoxic T-cell function, and ultimately improving response to Anti-PD-1 therapy. Results showed that Abstatin significantly amplifies Anti-PD-1 efficacy with minimal toxicity, indicating a favorable safety profile for clinical use. This study highlights Abstatin as a promising immunotherapy adjuvant that addresses critical barriers in NSCLC by modulating metabolic pathways linked to immune resistance. Abstatin's approach, which combines modulation of cellular metabolism with immune sensitization, broadens the potential of immunotherapy and provides a practical, scalable strategy to enhance treatment outcomes in NSCLC and potentially other tumors, offering insights into combinatory cancer therapies.

Association of childhood emotional neglect, circulating protein biomarkers, with gastrointestinal disorders among UK biobank participants

OBJECTIVE

To explore the association between CEN and GIDs, and elucidated the potential role of circulating protein biomarkers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study utilized UK Biobank data from 156,686 participants, with data collection occurring between March 13, 2006 and October 1, 2010. Participants with GIDs at baseline were excluded from further analysis. CEN data were obtained from the baseline assessments. Differential protein analyses were conducted using OLINK data. GIDs and their subclasses were identified through electronic health records. Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to assess the association between CEN and the risk of GIDs, along with sensitivity and multidimensional stratification analyses. Additionally, mediation analysis was performed to explore the role of differential protein biomarkers.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the mild CEN (CENmild) group was associated with a significantly lower risk of various GIDs than the severe CEN (CENsevere) group, including overall GIDs (HR = 0.78,95%CI:0.74-0.81) and peptic ulcers (HR = 0.37,95%CI:0.20-0.68). OLINK differential analysis revealed that APOF expression was significantly higher in the CENmild group compared to the CENsevere group (PAPOF = 7.09E-08,FC = 0.048), whereas other differential protein expression (PBPIFB2 = 8.93E-06,FC = -0.122;PFABP4 = 3.19E-06,FC = -0.101;PGGH = 4.58E-07,FC = -0.054;PLEP = 5.39E-08,FC = -0.195) was significantly lower in the CENsevere group. Cox regression analysis showed that higher APOF expression was associated with a reduced risk of multiple GIDs, while the expression of other differential proteins increased the risk of corresponding GIDs. Mediation analysis indicated that these proteins mediated 0.5 % to 6.7 % of the CEN-GIDs association.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort study, CEN was significantly associated with a higher risk of GIDs in the adulthood, and circulating protein biomarkers partially mediated the associations.

Age- and diet-instructed metabolic rewiring of the tumor-immune microenvironment

The tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a critical role in tumor development and metastasis, as it influences the evolution of tumor cells and fosters an immunosuppressive state by intervening the metabolic reprogramming of infiltrating immune cells. Aging and diet significantly impact the metabolic reprogramming of the TIME, contributing to cancer progression and immune evasion. With aging, immune cell function declines, leading to a proinflammatory state and metabolic alterations such as increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, which compromise antitumor immunity. Similarly, dietary factors, particularly high-fat and high-sugar diets, promote metabolic shifts, creating a permissive TIME by fostering tumor-supportive immune cell phenotypes while impairing the tumoricidal activity of immune cells. In contrast, dietary restrictions have been shown to restore immune function by modulating metabolism and enhancing antitumor immune responses. Here, we discuss the intricate interplay between aging, diet, and metabolic reprogramming in shaping the TIME, with a particular focus on T cells, and highlight therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways to empower antitumor immunity.

Co-encapsulated Ce6 + CpG and biopeptide-modified liposomes for enhanced transdermal photo-immunotherapy of superficial tumors

Cancer immunotherapy encounters challenges of a low treatment response rate due to the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and immune-related adverse events caused by off-target immunotherapy agents delivered through systemic administration in clinical practice. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers a viable approach to improve the immunotherapy efficacy through inducing immunogenic tumor cell death and is particularly advantageous in superficial tumor treatment. Therefore, leveraging integrated nanomaterials for photo-immunotherapy appears to be an ideal strategy to improve therapeutic outcome. In this study, we develop a transdermal-enhancing peptide (TD)-modified cationic liposome that simultaneously encapsulated with photosensitizer chlorine 6 (Ce6) and immunoadjuvant CpG, denoted as Ce6/CpG@Lip-TD, to mediate photo-immunotherapy of superficial tumors via the skin. The functionalization of TD peptide and positively charged surface endow the liposomes enhanced skin penetration capability. The combination of Ce6 and CpG within the liposomes synergistically potentiates the photo-immunotherapy effect when exposed to laser irradiation. In both melanoma and breast cancer murine models, Ce6/CpG@Lip-TD demonstrated substantial tumor-suppressing properties, along with an augmented systemic immune response against distal tumors. As a topical therapeutic agent, Ce6/CpG@Lip-TD circumvents the regulatory challenges associated with the systemic delivery of nanomaterials and significantly reduces systemic side effects, holding great promise for rapid translation into clinical applications.

Study of immunosenescence in the occurrence and immunotherapy of gastrointestinal malignancies

In human beings heterogenous, pervasive and lethal malignancies of different parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract viz., tumours of the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum, represent gastrointestinal malignancies. Primary treatment modality for gastric cancer includes chemotherapy, surgical interventions, radiotherapy, monoclonal antibodies and inhibitors of angiogenesis. However, there is a need to improve upon the existing treatment modality due to associated adverse events and the development of resistance towards treatment. Additionally, age has been found to contribute to increasing the incidence of tumours due to immunosenescence-associated immunosuppression. Immunosenescence is the natural process of ageing, wherein immune cells as well as organs begin to deteriorate resulting in a dysfunctional or malfunctioning immune system. Accretion of senescent cells in immunosenescence results in the creation of a persistent inflammatory environment or inflammaging, marked with elevated expression of pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive cytokines and chemokines. Perturbation in the T-cell pools and persistent stimulation by the antigens facilitate premature senility of the immune cells, and senile immune cells exacerbate inflammaging conditions and the inefficiency of the immune system to identify the tumour antigen. Collectively, these conditions contribute positively towards tumour generation, growth and eventually proliferation. Thus, activating the immune cells to distinguish the tumour cells from normal cells and invade them seems to be a logical strategy for the treatment of cancer. Consequently, various approaches to immunotherapy, viz., programmed death ligand-1 (PD-1) inhibitors, Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors etc are being extensively evaluated for their efficiency in gastric cancer. In fact, PD-1 inhibitors have been sanctioned as late late-line therapy modality for gastric cancer. The present review will focus on deciphering the link between the immune system and gastric cancer, and the alterations in the immune system that incur during the development of gastrointestinal malignancies. Also, the mechanism of evasion by tumour cells and immune checkpoints involved along with different approaches of immunotherapy being evaluated in different clinical trials will be discussed.

Integrating cuproptosis and immunosenescence: A novel therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment

Recent advancements in our understanding of cell death mechanisms have progressed beyond traditional apoptosis to encompass various forms of regulated cell death, notably cuproptosis. This copper-dependent cell death occurs when copper interacts with lipoylated enzymes in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, leading to protein aggregation and subsequent cell death. Alongside this, immunosenescence the gradual decline in immune function due to aging has emerged as a significant factor in cancer progression and response to treatment. Innovative strategies that integrate cuproptosis and immunosenescence are showing considerable promise in cancer therapy. By leveraging the altered copper metabolism in cancer cells, cuproptosis can selectively induce cell death, effectively targeting and eliminating tumors. Simultaneously, addressing immunosenescence can rejuvenate the aging immune system, enhancing its capacity to identify and destroy cancer cells. This dual approach creates a synergistic effect, optimizing therapeutic efficacy by directly attacking tumor cells while revitalizing the immune response. Such integration bolsters the defense against cancer progression and recurrence and holds great potential for advancing cancer treatment modalities and improving patient outcomes. This paper delves into the interactions between cuproptosis and immunosenescence, emphasizing their implications for developing innovative cancer therapies.

Systemic inflammation in response to radiation drives the genesis of an immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment

The composition of the tumor immune microenvironment has become a major determinant of response to therapy, particularly immunotherapy. Clinically, a tumor microenvironment lacking lymphocytes, so-called "cold" tumors, are considered poor candidates for immune checkpoint inhibition. In this review, we describe the diversity of the tumor immune microenvironment in breast cancer and how radiation exposure alters carcinogenesis. We review the development and use of a radiation-genetic mammary chimera model to clarify the mechanism by which radiation acts. Using the chimera model, we demonstrate that systemic inflammation elicited by a low dose of radiation is key to the construction of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, resulting in aggressive, rapidly growing tumors lacking lymphocytes. Our experimental studies inform the non-mutagenic mechanisms by which radiation affects cancer and provide insight into the genesis of cold tumors.

Neutrophil extracellular traps and reactive oxygen species: Predictors of prognosis in bladder cancer

Neutrophils, the most abundant leukocytes in circulation, have become the subject of intensive research due to growing evidence of their role as modulators of cancer with both anti- and pro-tumorigenic effects. However, their prognostic function related to the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has not yet been elucidated in the context of bladder cancer (BC). This study aimed to evaluate the ability of circulating neutrophils from BC patients to undergo NETosis and produce ROS-both spontaneously and following activation with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence techniques. Their relevance to clinicopathological characteristics was also evaluated. Our results showed that PMA-treated neutrophils had increased early NETosis in patients with stage II (P = 0.048) and T2 (P = 0.014) compared to those with stage III and T3, respectively. These cells also showed a significant increase in ROS production in patients with T2 compared to those with T3 (P = 0.026) and T4 (P = 0.014), as well as in patients with stage II compared to stage IV (P = 0.048). Additionally, spontaneous ROS production was higher in patients without lymphovascular invasion than in those with invasion (P = 0.013). The increased activity of neutrophils observed in earlier stages (stage II and T2) suggests a potential protective mechanism in the early phases of cancer progression. It also highlights NETosis and ROS production by neutrophils as possible biomarkers for assessing disease progression. These findings provide insights into the complex interactions of neutrophils within the tumor microenvironment and lay the groundwork for further investigations into targeted therapies, potentially improving prognostic evaluations and treatment outcomes for patients.

Ultrasound-triggered drug-loaded nanobubbles for enhanced T cell recruitment in cancer chemoimmunotherapy

Chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy is a highly promising approach for treating tumors. However, chemotherapeutic drugs often fail to accumulate effectively at the tumor site after systemic administration and they lack sufficient immunogenicity to activate adaptive immunity, making an effective T-cell immune response within the tumor microenvironment difficult to achieve. Here, this work developed drug-loaded nanobubbles (DTX-R837@NBs) that encapsulate the chemotherapy drug docetaxel and the immune adjuvant R837 via a thin-film hydration method. Ultrasound-targeted nanobubble destruction promoted drug accumulation within tumor tissues and damaged tumor cells through the cavitation effect, inducing immunogenic cell death and releasing damage-associated molecular patterns to augment dendritic cell maturation. Notably, DTX-R837@NBs exhibited excellent contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging capabilities, enabling the seamless integration of diagnosis and treatment. In combination with immune checkpoint blockade targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), the generated immunological responses attacked residual tumor cells and ameliorated the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, inhibiting distant tumor growth and metastasis. Moreover, this strategy exhibited robust immune memory effects, effectively protecting the host and preventing tumor recurrence upon rechallenge. Overall, ultrasound-mediated DTX-R837@NBs combined with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy exhibits robust antitumor efficiency, represent a promising strategy for overcoming immunotherapy resistance in cold tumors, and warrant further investigation for clinical translation.

Immunosenescence and immunotherapy in elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver cancer, more specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a global health issue and one of the dominant causes of cancer death around the world. In the past few decades, remarkable advances have been achieved in the systemic therapy of HCC. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a therapy mainstay for advanced HCC and have shown promise in the neoadjuvant therapy before resection. Despite these significant advancements, the compositions and functions of the immune system occur various alterations with age, called "immunosenescence", which may affect the antitumor effects and safety of ICIs, thus raising concerns that immunosenescence may impair elderly patients' response to ICIs. Therefore, it is important to learn more about the immunosenescence characteristics of elderly patients. However, the real-world elderly HCC patients may be not accurately represented by the elderly patients included in the clinical trials, affecting the generalizability of the efficacy and safety profiles from the clinical trials to the real-world elderly patients. This review summarizes the characteristics of immunosenescence and its influence on HCC progression and immunotherapy efficacy as well as provides the latest progress in ICIs available for HCC and discusses their treatment efficacy and safety on elderly patients. In the future, more studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms of immunosenescence in HCC, and to find sensitive screening tools or biomarkers to identify the patients who may benefit from ICIs.

Tumor-educated Neutrophils Induce Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition and Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer Through Interleukin-17a Secretion

The role of neutrophils in defending against infections and regulating immune responses is well-known. In cancer, tumor-associated neutrophils also play a significant role in the progression of tumors. However, the specific mechanisms of their interaction with human colorectal tumors have not been fully elucidated. Our study found that tumor-educated neutrophils can activate the STAT3 signaling pathway in colorectal cancer cells by secreting IL-17a. This leads to increased migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells, promoting tumor growth by triggering epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). These findings suggest that IL-17a secreted by tumor-educated neutrophils contributes to the development of colorectal cancer through the IL-17a/STAT3 signaling pathway. This provides new insights for potential treatments for colorectal cancer.

Immunosenescence in skeletal muscle: The role-play in cancer cachexia chessboard

With the increase in life expectancy, age-related conditions and diseases have become a widespread and relevant social burden. Among these, immunosenescence and cancer cachexia play a significant often intertwined role. Immunosenescence is the progressive aging decline of both the innate and adaptive immune systems leading to increased infection susceptibility, poor vaccination efficacy, autoimmune disease, and malignancies. Cancer cachexia affects elderly patients with cancer causing severe weight loss, muscle wasting, inflammation, and reduced response to therapies. Whereas the connections between immunosenescence and cancer cachexia have been raising attention, the molecular mechanisms still need to be completely elucidated. This review aims at providing the current knowledge about the interplay between immunosenescence, skeletal muscle, and cancer cachexia, analyzing the molecular pathways known so far to be involved. Finally, we highlight potential therapeutic strategies suited for elderly population aimed to block immunosenescence and to preserve muscle mass in cachexia, also presenting the analysis of the current state-of-the-art of related clinical trials.

A carrier-free ultrasound-responsive polyphenol nanonetworks with enhanced sonodynamic-immunotherapy for synergistic therapy of breast cancer

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is an efficient non-invasive strategy for treating breast cancer. However, the therapeutic efficacy of SDT is greatly limited by various defense mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, particularly the overexpression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2). In this study, based on drug self-delivery systems, a carrier-free ultrasound-responsive polyphenol nanonetwork (GTC) was developed to enhance SDT by inhibiting Bcl-2. A one-pot method, involving the interaction of the polyphenolic Bcl-2 inhibitor gossypol (GOS), transferrin, and the sonosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6), was used to synthesize the GTC. The GTC was efficiently internalized by MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells through specific binding to transferrin receptors, and no external carriers were needed. After cellular internalization, GOS increased the lethality of Ce6-mediated SDT by reducing the expression of the Bcl-2 protein, which caused multiple toxic effects. RNA-seq analysis confirmed the transcriptomic alterations in oxidative stress and apoptotic pathways induced by the GTC nanosystem. In vivo studies revealed that GOS-assisted SDT not only eliminated tumors through sonodynamic effects and triggered immunogenic cell death but also enhanced sono-immunotherapy, thus effectively suppressing distant tumors and metastasis. This study might provide insights into carrier-free nanomedicines for SDT-based synergistic tumor therapy.

Advancements in colorectal cancer immunotherapy: from CAR-T cells to exosome-based therapies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be a major worldwide health issue, with elevated death rates linked to late stages of the illness. Immunotherapy has made significant progress in developing effective techniques to improve the immune system's capacity to identify and eradicate cancerous cells. This study examines the most recent advancements in CAR-T cell treatment and exosome-based immunotherapy for CRC. CAR-T cell therapy, although effective in treating blood cancers, encounters obstacles when used against solid tumours such as CRC. These obstacles include the presence of an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment and a scarcity of tumour-specific antigens. Nevertheless, novel strategies like dual-receptor CAR-T cells and combination therapy involving cytokines have demonstrated promise in surmounting these obstacles. Exosome-based immunotherapy is a promising approach for targeted delivery of therapeutic drugs to tumour cells, with high specificity and minimal off-target effects. However, there are still obstacles to overcome in the field, such as resistance to treatment, adverse effects associated with the immune system, and the necessity for more individualised methods. The current research is focused on enhancing these therapies, enhancing the results for patients, and ultimately incorporating these innovative immunotherapeutic approaches into the standard treatment protocols for CRC.

Decoding the complex web: cellular and molecular interactions in the lung tumour microenvironment

The lung tumour microenvironment (TME) or stroma is a dynamic space of numerous cells and their released molecules. This complicated web regulates tumour progression and resistance to different modalities. Lung cancer cells in conjunction with their stroma liberate a wide range of factors that dampen antitumor attacks by innate immunity cells like natural killer (NK) cells and also adaptive responses by effector T cells. These factors include numerous growth factors, exosomes and epigenetic regulators, and also anti-inflammatory cytokines. Understanding the intricate interactions between tumour cells and various elements within the lung TME, such as immune and stromal cells can help provide novel strategies for better management and treatment of lung malignancies. The current article discusses the complex network of cells and signalling molecules, which mediate communications in lung TME. By elucidating these multifaceted interactions, we aim to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets and strategies for lung cancer treatment.

Fibrinogen-like 2 in tumor-associated macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles shapes an immunosuppressive microenvironment in colorectal liver metastases by promoting tumor stemness and neutrophil extracellular traps formation

Investigating the mechanisms underlying the development of an immunosuppressive microenvironment within colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is important for identifying synergistic targets for immunotherapy. The regulatory role of tumor-associated macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles (TAM-EVs) in the immune microenvironment of CRLM has not yet been fully explored. Here, we found that TAM-EVs shaped the immunosuppressive microenvironment at the invasive front in murine CRLM models, thus dampening anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. This environment is characterized by an increased tumor stemness potential and abundant neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation. Mechanistically, TAM-EVs-derived fibrinogen-like 2 (FGL2) interacts with the FCGR2B receptor in tumor cells, which further activates a p-STAT3/IL-1β positive feedback loop to increase the stemness potential of cancer cells, whereas IL-1β mediates the communication between cancer cells and neutrophils. The use of an anti-IL-1β monoclonal antibody can reduce NETs production and synergize with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, which offers clinical translational significance for CRLM therapy. The FGL2/p-STAT3/IL-1β loop correlates with an immunosuppressive microenvironment and poor prognosis in human patients with CRLM. Our results revealed the potential of enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy via the targeted clearance of NETs using anti-IL-1β monoclonal antibodies, which have significant clinical translational value in the treatment of CRLM.

Astragaloside III inhibits MAPK-mediated M2 tumor-associated macrophages to suppress the progression of lung Cancer cells via Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a key role in facilitating a range of cancerous processes by modulating the tumor microenvironment thus being a target for cancer treatment. Astragaloside III (AS-III), a compound derived from Astragalus triterpenoid saponins, has demonstrated immunomodulatory and anticancer properties, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that AS-III suppressed metastasis, angiogenesis and induced apoptosis of lung cancer in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting macrophage M2 polarization and inducing M1 phenotype transformation. This was achieved through the inhibition of the MAPK signaling pathway. Furthermore, the tumor inhibitory effects of AS-III were found to be mediated by the Akt/mTOR pathway. Overall, these results highlight the role of AS-III in modifying the TAMs in TME, offering fresh perspectives on tumor immunotherapy by means of targeting macrophage.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) promotes the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by enhancing KIF20A expression

BACKGROUND

Compared to other HCC, those related to MAFLD exhibit distinct prognostic differences. This article aims to elucidate the impact of MAFLD on HCC prognosis through the lens of KIF20A, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for targeted therapies in MAFLD-related HCC.

METHODS

We employed the Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method alongside the Mime package to identify key genes associated with MAFLD-related HCC. Subsequently, we utilized OCLR and CytoTRACE algorithms to evaluate the relationship between these genes and HCC stemness. The R package was employed to conduct immunological analyses on both mRNA sequencing and single-cell data. We validated the effects of core genes on HCC through experimental approaches, including cell culture, Transwell assays, Western Blot, and proliferation assays. Finally, we predicted potential therapeutic drugs using the OncoPredict software package.

RESULTS

WGCNA identified the cyan module associated with MAFLD in GSE135251 and the blue module linked to HCC in TCGA. Further analysis identified KIF20A as the core gene in MAFLD-related HCC. Utilizing the OCLR and CytoTRACE algorithms, KIF20A was found to correlate with mRNA stemness index (mRNAsi). Analysis of public databases revealed that KIF20A promotes immune tolerance through the SPP1-CD44 pathway and drives HCC progression via the G2M checkpoint. Experimental results demonstrated that lipotoxic damage in HCC cells and small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from these cells upregulate KIF20A, thereby accelerating HCC progression. Finally, OncoPredict and AutoDock were employed to predict drugs targeting KIF20A.

CONCLUSION

MAFLD-related HCC can elevate KIF20A levels and promote tumor proliferation and migration.

Unraveling the Molecular Landscape of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Severe Asthma: Identification of Biomarkers and Molecular Clusters

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) play a central role in chronic airway diseases. However, the precise genetic basis linking NETs to the development of severe asthma remains elusive. This study aims to unravel the molecular characterization of NET-related genes (NRGs) in severe asthma and to reliably identify relevant molecular clusters and biomarkers. We analyzed RNA-seq data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Interaction analysis revealed fifty differentially expressed NRGs (DE-NRGs). Subsequently, the non-negative matrix factorization algorithm categorized samples from severe asthma patients. A machine learning algorithm then identified core NRGs that were highly associated with severe asthma. DE-NRGs were correlated and subjected to protein-protein interaction analysis. Unsupervised consensus clustering of the core gene expression profiles delineated two distinct clusters (C1 and C2) characterizing severe asthma. Functional enrichment highlighted immune-related pathways in the C2 cluster. Core gene selection included the Boruta algorithm, support vector machine, and least absolute contraction and selection operator algorithms. Diagnostic performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curves. This study addresses the molecular characterization of NRGs in adult severe asthma, revealing distinct clusters based on DE-NRGs. Potential biomarkers (TIMP1 and NFIL3) were identified that may be important for early diagnosis and treatment of severe asthma.

Unexpected links between cancer and telomere state

Eukaryotes possess chromosome ends known as telomeres. As telomeres shorten, organisms age, a process defined as senescence. Although uncontrolled telomere lengthening has been naturally connected with cancer developments and immortalized state, many cancers are instead characterized by extremely short, genomically unstable telomeres that may hide cancer cells from immune attack. By contrast, other malignancies feature extremely long telomeres due to absence of 'shelterin' end cap protecting factors. The reason for rampant telomere extension in these cancers had remained elusive. Hence, while telomerase supports tumor progression and escape in cancers with very short telomeres, it is possible that different - transfer based or alternative - lengthening pathways be involved in the early stage of tumorigenesis, when telomere length is intact. In this Review, I hereby discuss recent discoveries in the field of telomeres and highlight unexpected links connecting cancer and telomere state. We hope these parallelisms may inform new therapies to eradicate cancers.

Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles: Hijacking T cell function through exhaustion

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a vital role in intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These vesicles, secreted by tumor cells, contain proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that significantly influence immune responses, particularly impacting T-cell function. In cancer, T cell dysfunction and exhaustion-marked by reduced proliferation, diminished cytokine production, and impaired cytotoxic activity-are key barriers to effective immune responses. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (TEVs) contribute to this dysfunction by carrying immunosuppressive molecules, such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and various microRNAs (miRNAs). These TEV-mediated mechanisms promote T cell exhaustion and foster a broader immunosuppressive environment, enabling tumor progression and immune evasion. Furthermore, TEVs have been implicated in resistance to cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and T cell therapies. Understanding the molecular pathways and cargoes within TEVs that drive T cell dysfunction is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies aimed at reinvigorating exhausted T cells, enhancing anti-tumor immunity, and improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Targeted treatment for craniopharyngioma

INTRODUCTION

Craniopharyngioma is a rare solid-cystic tumor of the hypothalamopituitary region. Two distinct craniopharyngioma types (formerly subtypes), adamantinomatous and papillary, have been described. These tumors often manifest with neuroendocrine dysfunction, vision problems, hydrocephalus, and cognitive changes. Despite efforts to spare vital brain structures, conventional treatments such as surgery and radiation can exacerbate preceding deficits and contribute to permanent neurologic impairment. Recent studies have identified BRAF-V600E mutations in nearly all papillary craniopharyngiomas (PCP), and CTNNB1/Wnt pathway alterations in adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas (ACP). These discoveries have advanced our understanding of craniopharyngioma pathogenesis and have opened opportunities for targeted biological treatments.

PURPOSE

The primary objective of this article is to review the current landscape of targeted treatments in papillary and adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma.

RESULTS

Treatment of PCP with BRAF/MEK inhibition has demonstrated durable tumor response in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings in multiple case studies and one phase II clinical trial. Although treatment advances are more limited for ACP, CTNNB1/Wnt pathway inhibitors showed promising results in pre-clinical studies and are under continued investigation.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy of BRAF/MEK inhibition in PCP supports the use of targeted therapy in patients with newly diagnosed PCP. The optimal targeted treatment combinations and their timing, duration, long-term effects, and sequencing with traditional therapeutic modalities have not been established and warrant further study. Targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in the field of oncology, and craniopharyngiomas are viable candidates for these approaches pending further research.

CT Multidimensional Radiomics Combined with Inflammatory Immune Score For Preoperative Prediction of Pathological Grade in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Inflammation and immune biomarkers can promote angiogenesis and proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The degree of pathological grade reflects the tumor heterogeneity of ESCC. The purpose is to develop and validate a nomogram based on enhanced CT multidimensional radiomics combined with inflammatory immune score (IIS) for predicting poorly differentiated ESCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 266 ESCC patients from the retrospective study were included and randomly divided into a training set (N=186) and a validation set (N=80), and a complete data set (N=266), and overall survival was determined to follow up after surgery. The tumor imaging was segmented to form intratumoral and peritumoral 3 mm areas of 3D volume of interest (VOI) on CT arterial and venous phases, and 3404 radiomics features were extracted. Finally, the radiomics scores were calculated for arterial phase intratumoral (aInRads), peritumoral 3 mm (aPeriRads3), and venous phase intratumoral (vInRads), peritumoral 3 mm (vPeriRads3). Logistic regression was used to fuse the four cohorts of scores to form a Stacking. Additionally, sixteen inflammatory-immune biomarkers were analyzed, including aspartate aminotransferase to lymphocyte ratio (ALRI), aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase ratio (AAR), neutrophil times gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase to lymphocyte ratio (NγLR), and albumin plus 5 times lymphocyte sum (PNI), etc. Finally, IIS was constructed using ALRI, AAR, NγLR and PNI. Model performance was evaluated by area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analyse (DCA).

RESULTS

Stacking and IIS were independent risk factors for predicting poorly differentiated ESCC (P<0.05). Ultimately, three models of the IIS, Stacking, and nomogram were developed. Compared with the Stacking and IIS models, nomogram achieved better diagnostic performance for predicting poorly differentiated ESCC in the training set (0.881vs 0.835 vs 0.750), validation set (0.808 vs 0.796 vs 0.595), and complete data set (0.857 vs 0.823 vs 0.703). The nomogram achieved an AUC of 0.881(95%CI 0.826-0.924) in the training set, and was well verified in the validation set (AUC: 0.808[95%CI 0.705-0.888]) and the complete data set (AUC: 0.857[95%CI 0.809-0.897]). Moreover, calibration curve and DCA showed that nomogram achieved good calibration and owned more clinical net benefits in the three cohorts. KaplanMeier survival curves indicated that nomogram achieved excellent stratification for ESCC grade status (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The nomogram that integrates preoperative inflammatory-immune biomarkers, intratumoral and peritumoral CT radiomics achieves a high and stable diagnostic performance for predicting poorly differentiated ESCC, and may be promising for individualized surgical selection and management.

AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIALS

The original manuscript contained in the research is included in the article. Further inquiries can be made directly to the corresponding author.

Natural products modulating epigenetic mechanisms by affecting histone methylation/demethylation: Targeting cancer cells

Many natural products can exert anticancer or chemopreventive activity by interfering with the cellular epigenetic machinery. Many studies indicate the relevance of affecting DNA methylation and histone acetylation, however the influence on the mechanisms related to histone methylation are often overlooked. This may be associated with the lagging evidence that changes in the action of histone methylation writers and erasers, and subsequent alterations in the profile of histone methylation are causally related with carcinogenesis. Recent animal studies have shown that targeting histone methylation/demethylation affects the course of experimentally induced carcinogenesis. Existing data suggest that numerous natural compounds from different chemical groups, including green tea polyphenols and other flavonoids, curcuminoids, stilbene derivatives, phenolic acids, isothiocyanates, alkaloids and terpenes, can affect the expression and activity of crucial enzymes involved in the methylation and demethylation of histone lysine and arginine residues. These activities have been associated with the modulation of cancer-related gene expression and functional changes, including reduced cell proliferation and migration, and enhanced apoptosis in various cancer models. Most studies focused on the modulation of the expression and/or activity of two proteins - EZH2 (a H3K27 methyltransferase) and LSD1 (lysine demethylase 1A - a H3K4/9 demethylase), or the effects on the global levels of histone methylation caused by the phytochemicals, but data regarding other histone methyltransferases or demethylases are scarce. While the field remains relatively unexplored, this review aims to explore the impact of natural products on the enzymes related to histone methylation/demethylation, showing their relevance to carcinogenesis and cancer progression. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Natural Products and Cancer: From Drug Discovery to Prevention and Therapy. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.10/issuetoc.

Reshaping the immune microenvironment and reversing immunosenescence by natural products: Prospects for immunotherapy in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) represents a global health-care challenge. Recent progress in immunotherapy has elicited attracted considerable attention as a viable treatment option through modulating the host immune system and unleashing pre-existing immunity, which has profoundly revolutionized oncology, especially GC. Nonetheless, low clinical response and intrinsic and acquired resistance remain persistently challenging. The microenvironment of GC comprising multifarious stromal cell types has remarkable immunosuppressive elements that may impact the efficacy of immunotherapy. Immunosenescence is increasingly regarded as a factor that contributes to cancer development, remodels the tumor microenvironment and affects the efficacy of immunotherapy. Natural products are at the forefront of traditional medicine. Senotherapeutics is a class of drugs and natural products capable of delaying, preventing, or reversing the senescence process (i.e., senolytics) or suppressing senescence-associated secretory phenotype (i.e., senomorphics). Emerging evidence supports that natural products can improve the efficacy of existing immunotherapy and expand their indications in GC mainly based upon remodeling the immunosuppressive microenvironment and reversing immunosenescence. The review provides an integrated review of previously reported and ongoing clinical trials with immunotherapeutic regimens in GC and discusses current challenges. Next, we focus on natural compounds that exert anti-GC functions and possess immunomodulatory properties. More attention is paid to the potential of these natural compounds in modulating the immune microenvironment and immunosenescence. Lastly, we discuss the nanomedicine that can overcome the deficiencies of natural products. Altogether, our review suggests the enormous potential of natural compounds in GC immunotherapy, and provides an important direction for future research.

Impacts of ageing on the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells recognizing CD19 (19CAR-T) cell therapy has achieved robust clinical efficacy when treating some hematological malignancies, but which patient subgroups benefit mostly remains elusive. Here we summarized the data of 541 patients from 30 clinical trials who underwent 19 CAR-T therapy and analyzed the different clinical responses between young (<44 years), middle-aged (45-59 years) and elderly (>60 years) patients and found that the young patients showed a higher level of complete response (CR) rate. Therefore, we then summarize the advances of studies focusing on the effects of age on anti-tumor efficacy of CAR-T therapy and analyze the reasons for the low CR rate after CAR-T cell therapy in elderly patients with tumors, aiming to provide hints for oncologists to select the most suitable candidate for this cancer immunotherapy.

Intratumoral microbiota: a new force in the development and treatment of esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer (EC) ranks among the most prevalent cancers worldwide, with a particularly high incidence in the Asian population. Due to the inconspicuous nature of early symptoms, patients with esophageal cancer are typically diagnosed in the middle to late stages, resulting in suboptimal overall treatment outcomes. Consequently, there is an urgent need to explore and refine therapeutic strategies. Microorganisms have been identified in numerous tumor tissues, including EC, and these microorganisms are referred to as the intratumoral microbiome. Intratumoral microbiota and their metabolic byproducts can influence the progression and treatment of esophageal cancer through various mechanisms, such as modulating tumor cell metabolism and local immune responses. Therefore, the intratumoral microbiota may potentially serve as a target for the treatment of esophageal cancer. This review delineates the composition, origin, and diagnostic significance of intratumoral microbiota in esophageal cancer tissue, and discusses the mechanisms by which intratumoral microbiota contribute to the onset of esophageal cancer. In addition, the impact of intratumoral microbiota on the treatment of esophageal cancer and its intervention measures are also addressed.

Tetraphenylethylene-indole as a novel fluorescent probe for selective and sensitive detection of human serum albumin (HSA) in biological matrices and monitoring of HSA purity and degradation

Human serum albumin (HSA) levels in serum and urine is a crucial biomarker for diagnosing liver and kidney diseases. HSA is used to treat various disorders in clinical practice and as an excipient in the production of vaccine or protein drug, ensuring its purity essential for patient safety. However, selective and sensitive detection of HSA remains challenging due to its structural similarity with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and the inherent complexity of biological matrices. This study presents a novel application of the tetraphenylethylene-indole (TPE-indo) fluorophore for the identification and quantification of HSA. The findings demonstrate that TPE-indo binds specifically to HSA in a 1:1 M ratio, thereby triggering its aggregation-induced emission (AIE) mechanism and producing a selective, sensitive, and rapid "turn-on" fluorescence response. The fluorescence intensity of TPE-indo exhibited minimal interference from proteins, amino acids, sugars, ions, and urine metabolites, and demonstrated a linear correlation with HSA concentration up to 60 μg/mL, with a limit of detection of 0.30 μg/mL. Furthermore, TPE-indo displays a markedly enhanced response to HSA in comparison to BSA, which can be ascribed to the distinct binding modes between TPE-indo and these two proteins. TPE-indo can be used to quantify HSA in serum, grade proteinuria samples, detect BSA adulteration in HSA samples, and real-time monitor HSA degradation processes. This study not only advances the development of efficient HSA detection methods but also highlights the significance of TPE-indo as a versatile tool for bioanalysis and clinical diagnosis.

Fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy combined with machine learning for the classification of viruses for respiratory infections

Significant efforts were currently being made worldwide to develop a tool capable of distinguishing between various harmful viruses through simple analysis. In this study, we utilized fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy as a rapid and specific tool with high sensitivity, employing a straightforward methodological approach to identify spectral differences between samples of respiratory infection viruses. To achieve this goal, the fluorescence EEM spectral data from eight virus samples was divided into training and test sets, which were then analyzed using random forest and support vector machine classification models. We proposed a novel strategy for data fusion based on fast Fourier transform (FFT) and wavelet transform (WT) methods, which significantly enhanced classification accuracy from 45 % to 75 %. This approach improved the classification capability for similar spectral characteristics of viruses. Rhinovirus was further differentiated from rotavirus, while influenza A virus was distinguished from inactivated poliovirus vaccines and rhinovirus. This study demonstrated that the integration of fluorescence EEM spectroscopy with machine learning algorithms presented significant potential for the detection of unidentified harmful substances in the ambient environment.

Bioactive phosphorus dendrimers deliver protein/drug to tackle osteoarthritis via cooperative macrophage reprogramming

Reprogramming imbalanced synovial macrophages and shaping an immune microenvironment conducive to bone and cartilage growth is crucial for efficient tackling of osteoarthritis (OA). Herein, we present a co-delivery nanosystem based on generation 2 (G2) hydroxyl-terminated bioactive phosphorus dendrimers (G2-OH24) that were loaded with both catalase (CAT) and quercetin (Que). The created G2-OH24/CAT@Que complexes exhibit a uniformly distributed spherical morphology with a size of 138.8 nm, possess robust stability, and induce macrophage reprogramming toward anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype polarization and antioxidation through cooperative CAT-catalyzed oxygen generation, Que-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis restoration, and inherent immunomodulatory activity of dendrimer. Such macrophage reprogramming leads to chondrocyte apoptosis inhibition and osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells. Administration of G2-OH24/CAT@Que to an OA mouse model results in attenuation of pathological features such as cartilage degeneration, bone erosion, and synovitis through oxidative stress alleviation and inflammatory factor downregulation in inflamed joints. Excitingly, the G2-OH24/CAT@Que also polarized macrophages in adherent effusion monocytes (AEMs) extracted from joint cavity effusions of OA patients to M2 phenotype and downregulated reactive oxygen species levels in AEMs. This study suggests a promising nanomedicine formulation of phosphorus dendrimer-based co-delivery system to effectively tackle OA through the benefits of full-active ingredients of dendrimer, drug, and protein.

Exploring immune checkpoint inhibitors: Focus on PD-1/PD-L1 axis and beyond

Immunotherapy emerges as a promising approach, marked by recent substantial progress in elucidating how the host immune response impacts tumor development and its sensitivity to various treatments. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized cancer therapy by unleashing the power of the immune system to recognize and eradicate tumor cells. Among these, inhibitors targeting the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) have garnered significant attention due to their remarkable clinical efficacy across various malignancies. This review delves into the mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and emerging therapeutic strategies surrounding PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. We explore the intricate interactions between PD-1/PD-L1 and other immune checkpoints, shedding light on combinatorial approaches to enhance treatment outcomes and overcome resistance mechanisms. Furthermore, we discuss the expanding landscape of immune checkpoint inhibitors beyond PD-1/PD-L1, including novel targets such as CTLA-4, LAG-3, TIM-3, and TIGIT. Through a comprehensive analysis of preclinical and clinical studies, we highlight the promise and challenges of immune checkpoint blockade in cancer immunotherapy, paving the way for future advancements in the field.

Hypoxia-inducible factor-targeting therapy augmented the sensitivity to programmed death ligand-1 blockade by enhancing interferon-γ-induced chemokines in tumor cells

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) provide clinical benefits for various advanced malignancies. However, the predictive factors that determine sensitivity to ICIs have not been fully elucidated. We focused on tumor-derived CXCL10/11 as a pivotal factor that determines the response to PD-L1 blockade by regulating T cell accumulation and tumor angiogenesis. We previously reported that CXCL10/11 was upregulated by interferon (IFN)-γ in ICI-sensitive tumor cells but not in ICI-resistant cells, including mouse Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC). In the present study, gene silencing of tumor-derived CXCL10/11 induced resistance to PD-L1 blockade in AB1-HA mesothelioma cell-bearing mice. To identify the mechanisms underlying ICI resistance, we performed a microarray analysis to compare the IFN-γ-inducible genes between ICI-sensitive AB1-HA and ICI-resistant LLC in vitro. A pathway analysis based on microarray data indicated that hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1A is the key signal that inhibits CXCL10/11 expression. We revealed that the HIF1A inhibitors echinomycin (EC) and YC-1 upregulated CXCL10/11 genes induced by IFN-γ in tumor cells in vitro. In addition, combination therapy with PD-L1 blockade and EC demonstrated synergistic antitumor effects in LLC-bearing mice. Combination therapy enhanced tumor infiltration of CD8 T cells and suppressed tumor angiogenesis. The present study suggests that HIF1A signaling in tumor cells dominates ICI resistance via the downregulation of tumor-derived CXCL10/11.

Unveiling the role of PANoptosis-related genes in breast cancer: an integrated study by multi-omics analysis and machine learning algorithms

BACKGROUND

The heterogeneity of breast cancer (BC) necessitates the identification of novel subtypes and prognostic models to enhance patient stratification and treatment strategies. This study aims to identify novel BC subtypes based on PANoptosis-related genes (PRGs) and construct a robust prognostic model to guide individualized treatment strategies.

METHODS

The transcriptome data along with clinical data of BC patients were sourced from the TCGA and GEO databases. Consensus clustering was performed on 12 PRGs to ascertain potential BC subtypes, and variances in survival, infiltration of immune cells, and functional pathways among them were examined. A prognostic model was generated through 101 combinations of machine learning algorithms and validated across multiple cohorts. The response of patients towards immunotherapy were analyzed using multiple frameworks.

RESULTS

Consensus clustering of 12 PRGs identified two distinct BC subtypes, with subtype B exhibiting significantly lower overall survival (OS) rates compared to subtype A. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed higher immune activity in subtype A. Functional pathway analysis revealed that subtype A exhibited a significant enrichment in immune-related pathways, while subtype B was associated with cell cycle and metabolic processes. An integrated machine learning framework integrating CoxBoost and Random Survival Forest (RSF) algorithms was developed, demonstrating high predictive performance across multiple cohorts. A nomogram combining age and risk score was constructed, showing excellent predictive performance. Immune landscape analysis revealed that the high-risk group exhibited a suppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Immunotherapy response prediction suggested that low-risk patients were more likely to benefit from PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides a comprehensive framework for BC subtype classification and prognostic prediction, offering valuable insights for personalized treatment strategies.

The role of cytokines in shaping the future of Cancer immunotherapy

As essential immune system regulators, cytokines are essential for modulating both innate and adaptive immunological responses. They have become important tools in cancer immunotherapy, improving the immune system's capacity to identify and destroy tumor cells. This article examines the background, workings, and therapeutic uses of cytokines, such as interleukins, interferons, and granulocyte-macropHage colony-stimulating factors, in the management of cancer. It examines the many ways that cytokines affect immune cell activation, signaling pathways, tumor development, metastasis, and prognosis by modifying the tumor microenvironment. Despite the limited effectiveness of cytokine-based monotherapy, recent developments have concentrated on new fusion molecules such as immunocytokines, cytokine delivery improvements, and combination techniques to maximize treatment efficacy while reducing adverse effects. Current FDA-approved cytokine therapeutics and clinical trial results are also included in this study, which offers insights into how cytokines might be used with other therapies including checkpoint inhibitors, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy to address cancer treatment obstacles. This study addresses the intricacies of cytokine interactions in the tumor microenvironment, highlighting the possibility for innovative treatment methods and suggesting fresh techniques for enhancing cytokine-based immunotherapies. PEGylation, viral vector-mediated cytokine gene transfer, antibody-cytokine fusion proteins (immunocytokines), and other innovative cytokine delivery techniques are among the novelties of this work, which focuses on the most recent developments in cytokine-based immunotherapy. Additionally, the study offers a thorough examination of the little-reviewed topic of cytokine usage in conjunction with other treatment techniques. It also discusses the most recent clinical studies and FDA-approved therapies, providing a modern perspective on the developing field of cancer immunotherapy and suggesting creative ways to improve treatment effectiveness while lowering toxicity. BACKGROUND: Cytokines are crucial in cancer immunotherapy for regulating immune responses and modifying the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, challenges with efficacy and safety have driven research into advanced delivery methods and combination therapies to enhance their therapeutic potential.

Tumor microenvironment as a complex milieu driving cancer progression: a mini review

It has been spotlighted that the Tumor Microenvironment (TME) is crucial for comprehending cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, this comprehensive review elucidates the intricate architecture of the TME, which encompasses tumor cells, immune components, support cells, and a myriad of bioactive molecules. These constituents collectively foster dynamic interactions that underpin tumor growth, metastasis, and nuanced responses to anticancer therapies. Notably, the TME's role extends beyond mere physical support, serving as a critical mediator in cancer-cell evolution, immune modulation, and treatment outcomes. Innovations targeting the TME, including strategies focused on the vasculature, immune checkpoints, and T-cell therapies, have forged new pathways for clinical intervention. However, the heterogeneity and complexity of the TME present significant challenges, necessitating deeper exploration of its components and their interplay to enhance therapeutic efficacy. This review underscores the imperative for integrated research strategies that amalgamate insights from tumor biology, immunology, and systems biology. Such an approach aims to refine cancer treatments and improve patient prognoses by exploiting the TME's complexity.

Study on the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Gentiana scabra Bunge Extract and Its Mechanism Using Zebrafish and RAW264.7 Cell Models

Gentiana scabra Bunge (Gentian) is a traditional medicinal plant valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, with historical use in treating atopic dermatitis. Despite its therapeutic reputation, a comprehensive scientific analysis of its constituents is lacking. This study systematically evaluates the anti-inflammatory effects of Gentian extract and explores its molecular mechanisms. We characterized the chemical profile of Gentian extracts using HPLC and assessed their anti-inflammatory activity in zebrafish and cellular models. Gentian extract significantly reduced inflammation, as shown by decreased neutrophil migration in response to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), reduced tail wagging in zebrafish embryos, and alleviated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced edema. It also lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating antioxidant properties, and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and genes. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, the extract upregulated IκBα and reduced p65 and STAT3 phosphorylation, inhibiting NF-κB and JAK-STAT pathways. This study is the first to systematically evaluate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Gentian extract in zebrafish and RAW264.7 cell models, enhancing its understanding and providing a scientific basis for its application in anti-inflammatory products.

The clinicopathological implications of serum IL-33 and sST2 as cancer biomarkers: A narrative review

Background

Interleukin (IL)-33 and its receptor, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2), are key players in the immune response and cancer biology. IL-33 can promote tumorigenesis by enhancing cancer cell proliferation and modulating the immune environment to support tumor growth. Conversely, it can also bolster anti-tumor immunity by recruiting and activating immune effector cells. IL-33 plays a role in multiple aspects of cancer biology, such as promoting immune evasion, tumor growth, and metastasis.

Objective

This study intends to assess the prognostic significance of serum IL-33 and sST2 in cancer and their association with clinicopathologic characteristics (CPC).

Material & methods

Scopus, PubMed electronic databases and other sources were searched and analysed from 2008-2025. The quality of the study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

A total of forty-four studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. These studies primarily employed an observational and analytical designs, with the majority conducted in the Southeast Asian region, particularly in China. Among the studies investigating serum IL-33 levels in cancer, 68% (26/38) reported elevated serum IL-33 levels, with the majority focusing on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), followed by breast (BC) and colon rectal cancer (CRC). Additionally, 85% (22/26) of the reports found a significant association between serum IL-33 expression in cancer and CPC. For regulating the availability and activity of IL-33, sST2, a decoy receptor that binds to IL-33, is crucial. Of the studies assessing sST2 in cancer, 55% (12/22) showed elevated sST2 levels, with most focusing on HCC, followed by BC and CRC. Furthermore, 54% (7/13) of these studies identified a significant correlation between sST2 levels and CPC.

Conclusion

The detection of increased serum IL-33 across various malignancies highlights its potential as an emerging biomarker for cancer detection and prognosis. Similarly, elevated sST2 levels have been observed in different cancers and are linked to poor prognosis, further highlighting its potential as a biomarker for tumor progression. The IL-33/ST2 signaling pathway could offer new cancer treatment strategies by enhancing immune responses while mitigating tumor-promoting effects. This study explores the roles of IL-33 and sST2 as biomarkers, their relevance in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, and their correlation with clinical outcomes across different cancer types.

Rosuvastatin restores liver tissue-resident NK cell activation in aged mice by improving mitochondrial function

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Aging has an impact on Natural Killer (NK) cells surveillance against tumors and infections. Our study aims to assess the aging effects on metabolic and mitochondrial markers influencing NK cell activity.

METHODS

C57BL/6 J mice aged 12, 24, 48, and 72 weeks were used. Liver injury serum and histological markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines [IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6] and chemoattractant markers [CCL2, CXCL8] were assessed. Moreover, cholesterol metabolic markers [HMG-CoA synthetase, HMG-CoA reductase, mevalonate kinase], mitochondrial biogenesis [PGC1α] and functional gene markers [TFAM, HSPA9, Seahorse, apoptosis] in liver trNK cells, were assessed by RT-PCR. Senescence [p16, p21], exhaustion [PD-1, TIGIT, LAG3], activation [CD107a, NKp46], and chemokine receptor [CCR2, CXCR1] markers were assessed in trNK cells using flow cytometry. Liver trNK cells of aged mice were treated with Rosuvastatin [10μM] for 12 h.

RESULTS

Data showed a linear increase in liver injury markers, pro-inflammatory and chemotaxis along aging. These results were associated with reductions in liver trNK cell counts and activations with a noticeable decrease in their chemoattractant receptor expressions. TrNK cells of aged mice exhibited elevated markers of senescence and exhaustion with a gradual increase in cholesterol accumulation. Mitochondrial biogenesis and functional gene markers showed a decrease in their expressions in aged mice while ameliorated following rosuvastatin treatment. Results were correlated with a decrease in cholesterol metabolism and restoring their NK cell activity.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates age-related cholesterol accumulation in trNK cells correlated with senescence and functional impairment. Rosuvastatin is suggested to boost, rejuvenate and recover NK cell functionality.

Interaction between redox regulation, immune activation, and response to treatment in HER2+ breast cancer

In HER2+ breast cancer (BC), neoadjuvant therapy represents an ideal scenario for translational research, considering pathological complete response (pCR) as an endpoint. In these patients, achieving pCR after neoadjuvant therapy is associated with a better prognosis. However, biomarkers are needed to tailor optimal treatment for each patient. Evaluating tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has gained attention in predicting pCR. In the context of metastatic disease, TILs also appear to play a role in predicting outcomes. The interaction between the presence of TILs and reactive oxygen species (ROS) remains an area to be explored. ROS are critical for tumour cell homeostasis, and different levels can trigger differential biological responses in cancer cells and their microenvironment. Nevertheless, the influence of ROS on treatment efficacy and prognosis in patients with HER2+ BC remains to be elucidated. In this article, we reviewed the interplay between treatment response, immune system activation, and ROS production in HER2+ BC and suggested novel areas of intervention and research. We also present a bioinformatic analysis demonstrating that the altered expression of several redox-related genes could be associated with the prevalence of immune cell populations in the tumour microenvironment and with patient survival. New biomarkers are thus suggested and should be further explored to tailor the best treatment to each patient.

Resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors, of which non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 85 %. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), particularly PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, have significantly improved the prognosis of patients with NSCLC. There are still many patients do not benefit from ICIs. Primary resistance remains a major challenge in advanced NSCLC. The cancer-immunity cycle describes the process from antigen release to T cell recognition and killing of the tumor, which provides a framework for understanding anti-tumor immunity. The classical cycle consists of seven steps, and alterations at each stage can result in resistance. This review examines the current status of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in the treatment of advanced NSCLC and explores potential mechanisms of resistance. We summarize the latest clinical trials of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors combined with other therapies and explore potential targets for overcoming primary resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.

Regulating tumor cells to awaken T cell antitumor function and enhance melanoma immunotherapy

Tumor cells transmit various immunosuppressive signals and induce a dysfunctional state in T cells, which essentially leads to immune escape and tumor progression. However, developing effective strategies to counteract the domestication of T cells by tumor cells remains a challenge. Here, we prepared pH-responsive lipid nanoparticles (NL/PLDs) co-loaded with PCSK9 shRNA, lonidamine (LND), and low-dose doxorubicin (DOX). NL/PLDs can awaken domesticated T cells function by sending pro-activation, pro-recognition, and pro-killing signals by increasing tumor immunogenicity, increasing the expression of major histocompatibility complex I (MHC-I) on tumor cells, and alleviating the suppression effect of tumor-secreted lactic acid (LA) on the T cell effector function, respectively. In melanoma-bearing mice, NL/PLDs effectively relieved tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) and enhanced the antitumor immunity mediated by CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, when combined with aPD-1, NL/PLDs demonstrated strong antitumor effects and increased immunotherapeutic efficacy. This regulatory strategy provides new insights for enhancing immunotherapy by regulating tumor immunosuppressive signals and shows significant potential for clinical tumor treatment.

Elimination of intracellular microbes using drug combination therapy and unveiling survival mechanism of host cells upon microbial invasion

Intracellular microbes are actively present in various tumor types in low biomass and play a major role in metastasis. Eliminating intracellular microbes on a cellular level with precision remains a challenge. To address this issue, we designed a screening pipeline to characterize intracellular microbes and their interaction with host cells. We used host and microbial in vitro lab-based constant and reproducible model, host as (mammalian cancer HeLa), and microbial strain as (Escherichia coli 25922). To study the pharmacological impact on intracellular bacterial load, we used antibiotics (ampicillin, roxithromycin, and ciprofloxacin) and chemotherapy drugs (doxorubicin and cisplatin) as external stimuli for both host and microbes. We found that increasing pharmacological stress does not increase microbial load inside the host cells. Eliminations of intracellular bacteria was done by using permutation orthogonal arrays (POA), whereby we acquired optimal drug combination in particular sequence of drugs, which reduced 90%-95% of the intracellular microbial load. Proteomic analysis revealed that upon invasion of Escherichia coli 25922, HeLa cells enriched ATP production pathways to activate intermediate filaments, which should be investigated closely via in vivo models.

CAR T cells in lung cancer: Targeting tumor-associated antigens to revolutionize immunotherapy

Tumor-targeted T cells engineered for targeting and killing tumor cells have revolutionized cancer treatment, specifically in hematologic malignancies, through chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. However, the migration of this success to lung cancer is challenging due to the tumor microenvironment (TME), antigen heterogeneity, and limitations of T cell infiltration. This review aims to evaluate current strategies addressing these barriers, focusing on the optimization of tumor-associated antigen (TAA) targeting, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mucin-1 (MUC1), and mesothelin (MSLN), which are frequently overexpressed in lung cancer and offer promising targets for CAR T-cell therapy. In this review, we discuss recent progress in CAR T cell engineering, applying enhanced costimulatory molecules, cytokine-secreting CAR T cells, and engineered modifications to improve T cell resilience in immunosuppressive environments. Additionally, this review also evaluates combination therapies of immune checkpoint inhibitors and recently published clinical trials on lung cancer with CAR T cells. We offer insights into the way to optimize CAR T cell therapy for lung cancer by analyzing antigen selection, immune evasion, and the strategies to enhance T cell persistence and tumor infiltration.

Peripheral protein inflammatory biomarkers in bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Bipolar disorder (BD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) are mood disorders. The most frequent clinical presentation of BD and MDD is depression, which contributes to high rates of misdiagnosis between disorders. To support diagnostic discrimination and therapeutic stratification, we aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating peripheral protein inflammatory biomarkers between BD and MDD, with a focus on the depressive state.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search on PubMed, PsycInfo and Embase with no year/language restrictions. Original studies including human participants with a BD or MDD diagnosis which directly compared levels of peripheral protein inflammatory biomarkers between groups were included. A random effects meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

35 studies were included in the systematic review. 9 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed IL-7 (p < 0.01) levels were significantly decreased in BD, and IL-9 (p < 0.01), CCL3 (p = 0.03), CCL4 (p = 0.01), CCL5 (p = 0.02) and CCL11 (p = 0.04) levels were significantly increased in BD.

LIMITATIONS

High heterogeneity and limited dataset size restricted our meta-analysis to a small subset of biomarkers and limited our exploration of the effects of moderator variables.

CONCLUSION

This study found differences in IL-7, IL-9, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5 and CCL11 between BD and MDD in a depressive state. These findings support the notion that inflammation is associated with mood disorder pathophysiology, particularly with respect to T-cell network dysregulation. Further studies can assist in better understanding differences between disorders and work towards clinical applications.