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Ahmad I, Altameemi KKA, Hani MM, Ali AM, Shareef HK, Hassan ZF, Alubiady MHS, Al-Abdeen SHZ, Shakier HG, Redhee AH. Shifting cold to hot tumors by nanoparticle-loaded drugs and products. Clin Transl Oncol 2024:10.1007/s12094-024-03577-3. [PMID: 38922537 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03577-3] [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: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Cold tumors lack antitumor immunity and are resistant to therapy, representing a major challenge in cancer medicine. Because of the immunosuppressive spirit of the tumor microenvironment (TME), this form of tumor has a low response to immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and also chemotherapy. Cold tumors have low infiltration of immune cells and a high expression of co-inhibitory molecules, such as immune checkpoints and immunosuppressive molecules. Therefore, targeting TME and remodeling immunity in cold tumors can improve the chance of tumor repression after therapy. However, tumor stroma prevents the infiltration of inflammatory cells and hinders the penetration of diverse molecules and drugs. Nanoparticles are an intriguing tool for the delivery of immune modulatory agents and shifting cold to hot tumors. In this review article, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the ability of nanoparticles loaded with different drugs and products to modulate TME and enhance immune cell infiltration. We also focus on newest progresses in the design and development of nanoparticle-based strategies for changing cold to hot tumors. These include the use of nanoparticles for targeted delivery of immunomodulatory agents, such as cytokines, small molecules, and checkpoint inhibitors, and for co-delivery of chemotherapy drugs and immunomodulatory agents. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of nanoparticles for enhancing the efficacy of cancer vaccines and cell therapy for overcoming resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Mohaned Mohammed Hani
- Department of Medical Instrumentation Engineering Techniques, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al Muthanna, Iraq
| | - Afaq Mahdi Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Al-Turath University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Hasanain Khaleel Shareef
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Science, Al-Mustaqbal University, Hilla, Iraq
- Biology Department, College of Science for Women, University of Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
| | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed Huseen Redhee
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
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52
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Xu Z, Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Liu X, Song L, Chen M, Xiao G, Ma X, Shi H. Prediction of immunotherapy response of bladder cancer with a pyroptosis-related signature indicating tumor immune microenvironment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1387647. [PMID: 38983908 PMCID: PMC11231188 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1387647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Although prognostic models based on pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) have been constructed in bladder cancer (BLCA), the comprehensive impact of these genes on tumor microenvironment (TME) and immunotherapeutic response has yet to be investigated. Methods Based on expression profiles of 52 PRGs, we utilized the unsupervised clustering algorithm to identify PRGs subtypes and ssGSEA to quantify immune cells and hallmark pathways. Moreover, we screened feature genes of distinct PRGs subtypes and validated the associations with immune infiltrations in tissue using the multiplex immunofluorescence. Univariate, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analyses were employed to construct the scoring scheme. Results Four PRGs clusters were identified, samples in cluster C1 were infiltrated with more immune cells than those in others, implying a favorable response to immunotherapy. While the cluster C2, which shows an extremely low level of most immune cells, do not respond to immunotherapy. CXCL9/CXCL10 and SPINK1/DHSR2 were identified as feature genes of cluster C1 and C2, and the specimen with high CXCL9/CXCL10 was characterized by more CD8 + T cells, macrophages and less Tregs. Based on differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among PRGs subtypes, a predictive model (termed as PRGs score) including five genes (CACNA1D, PTK2B, APOL6, CDK6, ANXA2) was built. Survival probability of patients with low-PRGs score was significantly higher than those with high-PRGs score. Moreover, patients with low-PRGs score were more likely to benefit from anti-PD1/PD-L1 regimens. Conclusion PRGs are closely associated with TME and oncogenic pathways. PRGs score is a promising indicator for predicting clinical outcome and immunotherapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Xu
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Linlin Song
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meixu Chen
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guixiu Xiao
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, West China Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hubing Shi
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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53
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Hong Y, Yang J, Liu X, Huang S, Liang T, Bai X. Deciphering extracellular vesicles protein cargo in pancreatic cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189142. [PMID: 38914240 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189142] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a significant therapeutic challenge as it is frequently diagnosed at advanced inoperable stages. Therefore, the development of a reliable screening tool for PDAC is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), characterized by their cup-shaped lipid bilayer structure and ubiquitous release from various cell types, offer notable advantages as an emerging liquid biopsy technique that is rapid, minimally invasive, easily sampled, and cost-effective. While EVs play a substantial role in cancer progression, EV proteins serve as direct mediators of diverse cellular behaviors and have immense potential as biomarkers for PDAC diagnosis and prognostication. This review provides an overview of EV proteins regarding PDAC diagnosis and prognostic implications as well as disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sicong Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China; Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Fukushima H, Furusawa A, Takao S, Thankarajan E, Luciano MP, Usama SM, Kano M, Okuyama S, Yamamoto H, Suzuki M, Kano M, Choyke PL, Schnermann MJ, Kobayashi H. Near-infrared duocarmycin photorelease from a Treg-targeted antibody-drug conjugate improves efficacy of PD-1 blockade in syngeneic murine tumor models. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2370544. [PMID: 38915782 PMCID: PMC11195482 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2370544] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a crucial role in mediating immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, Tregs contribute to the lack of efficacy and hyperprogressive disease upon Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade immunotherapy. Thus, Tregs are considered a promising therapeutic target, especially when combined with PD-1 blockade. However, systemic depletion of Tregs causes severe autoimmune adverse events, which poses a serious challenge to Treg-directed therapy. Here, we developed a novel treatment to locally and predominantly damage Tregs by near-infrared duocarmycin photorelease (NIR-DPR). In this technology, we prepared anti-CD25 F(ab')2 conjugates, which site-specifically uncage duocarmycin in CD25-expressing cells upon exposure to NIR light. In vitro, CD25-targeted NIR-DPR significantly increased apoptosis of CD25-expressing HT2-A5E cells. When tumors were irradiated with NIR light in vivo, intratumoral CD25+ Treg populations decreased and Ki-67 and Interleukin-10 expression was suppressed, indicating impaired functioning of intratumoral CD25+ Tregs. CD25-targeted NIR-DPR suppressed tumor growth and improved survival in syngeneic murine tumor models. Of note, CD25-targeted NIR-DPR synergistically enhanced the efficacy of PD-1 blockade, especially in tumors with higher CD8+/Treg PD-1 ratios. Furthermore, the combination therapy induced significant anti-cancer immunity including maturation of dendritic cells, extensive intratumoral infiltration of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, and increased differentiation into CD8+ memory T cells. Altogether, CD25-targeted NIR-DPR locally and predominantly targets Tregs in the tumor microenvironment and synergistically improves the efficacy of PD-1 blockade, suggesting that this combination therapy can be a rational anti-cancer combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukushima
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Aki Furusawa
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Seiichiro Takao
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ebaston Thankarajan
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Michael P Luciano
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Syed Muhammad Usama
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Makoto Kano
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shuhei Okuyama
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hiroshi Yamamoto
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Motofumi Suzuki
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Miyu Kano
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter L Choyke
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Martin J Schnermann
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Hisataka Kobayashi
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Ye Z, Xu J, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Ivanova D, Lu W, Zhang J, Li F, Chen X, Wang Y, Wang M, Xie B. Identification and Validation of Tumor Microenvironment-Associated Signature in Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma through Integration of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6792. [PMID: 38928496 PMCID: PMC11203551 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial in tumor development, metastasis, and response to immunotherapy. DNA methylation can regulate the TME without altering the DNA sequence. However, research on the methylation-driven TME in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is still lacking. In this study, integrated DNA methylation and RNA-seq data were used to explore methylation-driven genes (MDGs). Immune scores were calculated using the ESTIMATE, which was employed to identify TME-related genes. A new signature connected with methylation-regulated TME using univariate, multivariate Cox regression and LASSO regression analyses was developed. This signature consists of four TME-MDGs, including AJAP1, HOXB9, MYH14, and SLC6A19, which exhibit high methylation and low expression in tumors. Validation was performed using qRT-PCR which confirmed their downregulation in ccRCC clinical samples. Additionally, the signature demonstrated stable predictive performance in different subtypes of ccRCC. Risk scores are positively correlated with TMN stages, immune cell infiltration, tumor mutation burden, and adverse outcomes of immunotherapy. Interestingly, the expression of four TME-MDGs are highly correlated with the sensitivity of first-line drugs in ccRCC treatment, especially pazopanib. Molecular docking indicates a high affinity binding between the proteins and pazopanib. In summary, our study elucidates the comprehensive role of methylation-driven TME in ccRCC, aiding in identifying patients sensitive to immunotherapy and targeted therapy, and providing new therapeutic targets for ccRCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Ye
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jialiang Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction, Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; (F.L.); (X.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Deyana Ivanova
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Weiyu Lu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jianning Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction, Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; (F.L.); (X.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction, Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; (F.L.); (X.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction, Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; (F.L.); (X.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Meijiao Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China (J.X.); (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (W.L.); (J.Z.)
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction, Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; (F.L.); (X.C.); (Y.W.)
| | - Biao Xie
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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Sinkarevs S, Strumfs B, Volkova S, Strumfa I. Tumour Microenvironment: The General Principles of Pathogenesis and Implications in Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma. Cells 2024; 13:1057. [PMID: 38920685 PMCID: PMC11201569 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121057] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma worldwide, constituting around 30-40% of all cases. Almost 60% of patients develop relapse of refractory DLBCL. Among the reasons for the therapy failure, tumour microenvironment (TME) components could be involved, including tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumour-associated neutrophils (TANs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and different subtypes of cytotoxic CD8+ cells and T regulatory cells, which show complex interactions with tumour cells. Understanding of the TME can provide new therapeutic options for patients with DLBCL and improve their prognosis and overall survival. This review provides essentials of the latest understanding of tumour microenvironment elements and discusses their role in tumour progression and immune suppression mechanisms which result in poor prognosis for patients with DLBCL. In addition, we point out important markers for the diagnostic purposes and highlight novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ilze Strumfa
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
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Pan Y, Cheng J, Zhu Y, Zhang J, Fan W, Chen X. Immunological nanomaterials to combat cancer metastasis. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:6399-6444. [PMID: 38745455 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00968d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis causes greater than 90% of cancer-associated deaths, presenting huge challenges for detection and efficient treatment of cancer due to its high heterogeneity and widespread dissemination to various organs. Therefore, it is imperative to combat cancer metastasis, which is the key to achieving complete cancer eradication. Immunotherapy as a systemic approach has shown promising potential to combat metastasis. However, current clinical immunotherapies are not effective for all patients or all types of cancer metastases owing to insufficient immune responses. In recent years, immunological nanomaterials with intrinsic immunogenicity or immunomodulatory agents with efficient loading have been shown to enhance immune responses to eliminate metastasis. In this review, we would like to summarize various types of immunological nanomaterials against metastasis. Moreover, this review will summarize a series of immunological nanomaterial-mediated immunotherapy strategies to combat metastasis, including immunogenic cell death, regulation of chemokines and cytokines, improving the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, activation of the STING pathway, enhancing cytotoxic natural killer cell activity, enhancing antigen presentation of dendritic cells, and enhancing chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy. Furthermore, the synergistic anti-metastasis strategies based on the combinational use of immunotherapy and other therapeutic modalities will also be introduced. In addition, the nanomaterial-mediated imaging techniques (e.g., optical imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, photoacoustic imaging, surface-enhanced Raman scattering, radionuclide imaging, etc.) for detecting metastasis and monitoring anti-metastasis efficacy are also summarized. Finally, the current challenges and future prospects of immunological nanomaterial-based anti-metastasis are also elucidated with the intention to accelerate its clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanbo Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore.
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Junjie Cheng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore.
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Yang Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China.
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore.
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Wenpei Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore.
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 11 Biopolis Way, Helios, Singapore 138667, Singapore
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Zaakouk M, Longworth A, Hunter K, Jiman S, Kearns D, El-Deftar M, Shaaban AM. Detailed Profiling of the Tumor Microenvironment in Ethnic Breast Cancer, Using Tissue Microarrays and Multiplex Immunofluorescence. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6501. [PMID: 38928207 PMCID: PMC11203983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer poses a global health challenge, yet the influence of ethnicity on the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains understudied. In this investigation, we examined immune cell infiltration in 230 breast cancer samples, emphasizing diverse ethnic populations. Leveraging tissue microarrays (TMAs) and core samples, we applied multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) to dissect immune cell subtypes across TME regions. Our analysis revealed distinct immune cell distribution patterns, particularly enriched in aggressive molecular subtypes triple-negative and HER2-positive tumors. We observed significant correlations between immune cell abundance and key clinicopathological parameters, including tumor size, lymph node involvement, and patient overall survival. Notably, immune cell location within different TME regions showed varying correlations with clinicopathologic parameters. Additionally, ethnicities exhibited diverse distributions of cells, with certain ethnicities showing higher abundance compared to others. In TMA samples, patients of Chinese and Caribbean origin displayed significantly lower numbers of B cells, TAMs, and FOXP3-positive cells. These findings highlight the intricate interplay between immune cells and breast cancer progression, with implications for personalized treatment strategies. Moving forward, integrating advanced imaging techniques, and exploring immune cell heterogeneity in diverse ethnic cohorts can uncover novel immune signatures and guide tailored immunotherapeutic interventions, ultimately improving breast cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zaakouk
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (M.Z.); (K.H.)
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK; (A.L.); (S.J.); (D.K.)
- Cancer Pathology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11796, Egypt;
| | - Aisling Longworth
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK; (A.L.); (S.J.); (D.K.)
| | - Kelly Hunter
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (M.Z.); (K.H.)
| | - Suhaib Jiman
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK; (A.L.); (S.J.); (D.K.)
| | - Daniel Kearns
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK; (A.L.); (S.J.); (D.K.)
| | - Mervat El-Deftar
- Cancer Pathology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo 11796, Egypt;
| | - Abeer M Shaaban
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (M.Z.); (K.H.)
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK; (A.L.); (S.J.); (D.K.)
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Chwieduk A, Smagur A, Głowala-Kosińska M, Borzdziłowska P, Fidyk W, Mitrus I, Wilkiewicz M, Hadryś A, Cortez AJ, Giebel S. Circulating subpopulations of non-cytotoxic ILCs in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Ann Hematol 2024:10.1007/s00277-024-05831-8. [PMID: 38861004 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05831-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Non-cytotoxic innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have been added to the list of immune cells that may contribute to the tumor microenvironment. Elevated levels of total ILCs and their subgroups have been reported in peripheral blood and tissue samples from patients with solid tumors, but their frequency in non-Hodgkin lymphomas, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), has not been clearly established. This study examined frequency and subset distribution in newly diagnosed DLBCL patients (nodal and extra-nodal) and compared it with blood specimens from healthy donors. The percentage of total ILCs (Lin - CD127+) was assessed by flow cytometry, as well as the four ILC subsets, defined as ILC1 (Lin - CD127 + cKit - CRTH2-), ILC2 (Lin - CD127 + cKit+/- CRTH2+), ILCp NCR- (Lin - CD127 + cKit + CRTH2- NKp46-) and NCR + ILC3 (Lin - CD127 + cKit + NKp46+). In the studied group of patients (n = 54), significantly lower levels of circulating total ILCs, ILC1, and ILCp NCR- were observed compared to the control group (n = 43). Similarly, there was a statistically significant decrease in the median frequency of NKp46 + ILC3 cells in lymphoma patients. Analysis of the ILC2 subpopulation showed no significant differences. The correlation of the distribution of individual subpopulations of ILCs with the stage and location of the tumor was also demonstrated. Our results suggest that circulating ILCs are activated and differentiated and/or differentially recruited to the lymph nodes or tumor microenvironment where they may be involved in antitumor defense. However, our observations require confirmation in functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Chwieduk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland.
| | - A Smagur
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - M Głowala-Kosińska
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - P Borzdziłowska
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - W Fidyk
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - I Mitrus
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - M Wilkiewicz
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - A Hadryś
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
| | - A J Cortez
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Gliwice, Poland
| | - S Giebel
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Oncohematology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, ul. Wybrzeze Armii Krajowej 15, Gliwice, 44-101, Poland
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Molina OE, LaRue H, Simonyan D, Hovington H, Vittrant B, Têtu B, Fradet V, Lacombe L, Bergeron A, Fradet Y. Regulatory and memory T lymphocytes infiltrating prostate tumors predict long term clinical outcomes. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1372837. [PMID: 38887294 PMCID: PMC11180786 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1372837] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The localization, density but mostly the phenotype of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) provide important information on the initial interaction between the host immune system and the tumor. Our objective was to assess the prognostic significance of T (CD3+), T regulatory (Treg) (FoxP3+) and T memory (Tmem) (CD45RO+) infiltrating lymphocytes and of genes associated with TIL in prostate cancer (PCa). Methods Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to assess the infiltration of CD3+, FoxP3+ and CD45RO+ cells in the tumor area, tumor margin and adjacent normal-like epithelium of a series of 98 PCa samples with long clinical follow-up. Expression of a panel of 31 TIL-associated genes was analyzed by Taqman Low-Density Array (TLDA) technology in another series of 50 tumors with long clinical follow-up. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to determine association of these markers with biochemical recurrence (BCR), need for definitive androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or lethal PCa. Results TIL subtypes were present at different densities in the tumor, tumor margin and adjacent normal-like epithelium, but their density and phenotype in the tumor area were the most predictive of clinical outcomes. In multivariate analyses, a high density of Treg (high FoxP3+/CD3+ cell ratio) predicted a higher risk for need of definitive ADT (HR=7.69, p=0.001) and lethal PCa (HR=4.37, p=0.04). Conversely, a high density of Tmem (high CD45RO+/CD3+ cell ratio) predicted a reduced risk of lethal PCa (HR=0.06, p=0.04). TLDA analyses showed that a high expression of FoxP3 was associated with a higher risk of lethal PCa (HR=5.26, p=0.02). Expression of CTLA-4, PD-1, TIM-3 and LAG-3 were correlated with that of FoxP3. Amongst these, only a high expression of TIM-3 was associated with a significant higher risk for definitive ADT in univariate Cox regression analysis (HR=3.11, p=0.01). Conclusion These results show that the proportion of Treg and Tmem found within the tumor area is a strong and independent predictor of late systemic progression of PCa. Our results also suggest that inhibition of TIM-3 might be a potential approach to counter the immunosuppressive functions of Treg in order to improve the anti-tumor immune response against PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Eduardo Molina
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Hélène LaRue
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - David Simonyan
- Plateforme de recherche clinique et évaluative, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Hélène Hovington
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Benjamin Vittrant
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Bernard Têtu
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de pathologie, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Vincent Fradet
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de chirurgie, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Louis Lacombe
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de chirurgie, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alain Bergeron
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de chirurgie, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Yves Fradet
- Axe oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de chirurgie, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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Ohishi K, Ishikura A, Nishida S, Abo H, Nakatsukasa H, Kawashima H. Sialyl Lewis X Defines an Activated and Functional Regulatory T Cell Subpopulation in Mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:1627-1638. [PMID: 38639586 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Attempts have been made to elucidate the functional markers of regulatory T cells (Tregs), CD4+Foxp3+ T cells with an immunosuppressive function. Sialyl Lewis X (sLex), a tetrasaccharide Ag, is involved in leukocyte trafficking as selectin ligands and is a marker of highly differentiated Tregs in humans. However, the importance of sLex in murine Tregs remains unknown. In this study, we report that sLex defines the activated and functional subset of murine Tregs. The contact hypersensitivity model showed that murine Tregs strongly express sLex upon activation, accompanied by functional Treg marker elevation, such as Foxp3, CD25, CD103, CD39, and granzyme B. RNA sequencing analysis revealed sLex-positive (sLex+) Tregs expressed genes involved in Treg function at a higher level than sLex-negative (sLex-) Tregs. Using an in vitro suppression assay, we found that sLex+ Tregs could more efficiently suppress naive CD4+ T cell proliferation than sLex- Tregs. In the murine contact hypersensitivity elicitation model, the topical sLex+ Treg injection into the ears suppressed ear inflammation more efficiently than that of sLex- Tregs. Our results indicate that sLex could serve as a unique surface marker of activated and functional Tregs with immunosuppressive functions in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Ohishi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Asaki Ishikura
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shogo Nishida
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hirohito Abo
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroko Nakatsukasa
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroto Kawashima
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Jin Y, Jiang J, Mao W, Bai M, Chen Q, Zhu J. Treatment strategies and molecular mechanism of radiotherapy combined with immunotherapy in colorectal cancer. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216858. [PMID: 38621460 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216858] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) remodels the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and modulates the immune response to indirectly destroy tumor cells, in addition to directly killing tumor cells. RT combined with immunotherapy may significantly enhance the efficacy of RT in colorectal cancer by modulating the microenvironment. However, the molecular mechanisms by which RT acts as an immunomodulator to modulate the immune microenvironment remain unclear. Further, the optimal modalities of RT combined with immunotherapy for the treatment of colorectal cancer, such as the time point of combining RT and immunization, the fractionation pattern and dosage of radiotherapy, and other methods to improve the efficacy, are also being explored parallelly. To address these aspects, in this review, we summarized the mechanisms by which RT modulates TIME and concluded the progress of RT combined with immunization in preclinical and clinical trials. Finally, we discussed heavy ion radiation therapy and the efficacy of prediction markers and other immune combination therapies. Overall, combining RT with immunotherapy to enhance antitumor effects will have a significant clinical implication and will help to facilitate individualized treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhao Jin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou, 310000, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Jin Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, The First Hospital of Jiaxing, Jiaxing, 31400, China
| | - Wei Mao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou, 310000, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Minghua Bai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Qianping Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou, 310000, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
| | - Ji Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou, 310000, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
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Lee AV, Nestler KA, Chiappinelli KB. Therapeutic targeting of DNA methylation alterations in cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108640. [PMID: 38570075 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108640] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a critical component of gene regulation and plays an important role in the development of cancer. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes and silencing of DNA repair pathways facilitate uncontrolled cell growth and synergize with oncogenic mutations to perpetuate cancer phenotypes. Additionally, aberrant DNA methylation hinders immune responses crucial for antitumor immunity. Thus, inhibiting dysregulated DNA methylation is a promising cancer therapy. Pharmacologic inhibition of DNA methylation reactivates silenced tumor suppressors and bolster immune responses through induction of viral mimicry. Now, with the advent of immunotherapies and discovery of the immune-modulatory effects of DNA methylation inhibitors, there is great interest in understanding how targeting DNA methylation in combination with other therapies can enhance antitumor immunity. Here, we describe the role of aberrant DNA methylation in cancer and mechanisms by which it promotes tumorigenesis and modulates immune responses. Finally, we review the initial discoveries and ongoing efforts to target DNA methylation as a cancer therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kevin A Nestler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katherine B Chiappinelli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Guo J, Liu C, Qi Z, Qiu T, Zhang J, Yang H. Engineering customized nanovaccines for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 36:330-357. [PMID: 38496036 PMCID: PMC10940734 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.02.028] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Nanovaccines have gathered significant attention for their potential to elicit tumor-specific immunological responses. Despite notable progress in tumor immunotherapy, nanovaccines still encounter considerable challenges such as low delivery efficiency, limited targeting ability, and suboptimal efficacy. With an aim of addressing these issues, engineering customized nanovaccines through modification or functionalization has emerged as a promising approach. These tailored nanovaccines not only enhance antigen presentation, but also effectively modulate immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment. Specifically, they are distinguished by their diverse sizes, shapes, charges, structures, and unique physicochemical properties, along with targeting ligands. These features of nanovaccines facilitate lymph node accumulation and activation/regulation of immune cells. This overview of bespoke nanovaccines underscores their potential in both prophylactic and therapeutic applications, offering insights into their future development and role in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Guo
- Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory, 1 Xueyuan Road, Quanzhou, 362801, PR China
- College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou, 350108, PR China
| | - Changhua Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou, 350108, PR China
| | - Zhaoyang Qi
- Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory, 1 Xueyuan Road, Quanzhou, 362801, PR China
| | - Ting Qiu
- Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory, 1 Xueyuan Road, Quanzhou, 362801, PR China
- College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou, 350108, PR China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory, 1 Xueyuan Road, Quanzhou, 362801, PR China
- College of Chemical Engineering, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou, 350108, PR China
| | - Huanghao Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, 2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou, 350108, PR China
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Tang Y, Cui G, Liu H, Han Y, Cai C, Feng Z, Shen H, Zeng S. Converting "cold" to "hot": epigenetics strategies to improve immune therapy effect by regulating tumor-associated immune suppressive cells. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2024; 44:601-636. [PMID: 38715348 PMCID: PMC11194457 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant developments in cancer treatment have been made since the advent of immune therapies. However, there are still some patients with malignant tumors who do not benefit from immunotherapy. Tumors without immunogenicity are called "cold" tumors which are unresponsive to immunotherapy, and the opposite are "hot" tumors. Immune suppressive cells (ISCs) refer to cells which can inhibit the immune response such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T (Treg) cells and so on. The more ISCs infiltrated, the weaker the immunogenicity of the tumor, showing the characteristics of "cold" tumor. The dysfunction of ISCs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) may play essential roles in insensitive therapeutic reaction. Previous studies have found that epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in the regulation of ISCs. Regulating ISCs may be a new approach to transforming "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors. Here, we focused on the function of ISCs in the TME and discussed how epigenetics is involved in regulating ISCs. In addition, we summarized the mechanisms by which the epigenetic drugs convert immunotherapy-insensitive tumors into immunotherapy-sensitive tumors which would be an innovative tendency for future immunotherapy in "cold" tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijia Tang
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Guangzu Cui
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Haicong Liu
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Changjing Cai
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Ziyang Feng
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
- National Clinical Resaerch Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
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Chen J, Wu L, Li Y. FGL1 and FGL2: emerging regulators of liver health and disease. Biomark Res 2024; 12:53. [PMID: 38816776 PMCID: PMC11141035 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00601-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver disease is a complex group of diseases with high morbidity and mortality rates, emerging as a major global health concern. Recent studies have highlighted the involvement of fibrinogen-like proteins, specifically fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1) and fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2), in the regulation of various liver diseases. FGL1 plays a crucial role in promoting hepatocyte growth, regulating lipid metabolism, and influencing the tumor microenvironment (TME), contributing significantly to liver repair, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and liver cancer. On the other hand, FGL2 is a multifunctional protein known for its role in modulating prothrombin activity and inducing immune tolerance, impacting viral hepatitis, liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver transplantation. Understanding the functions and mechanisms of fibrinogen-like proteins is essential for the development of effective therapeutic approaches for liver diseases. Additionally, FGL1 has demonstrated potential as a disease biomarker in radiation and drug-induced liver injury as well as HCC, while FGL2 shows promise as a biomarker in viral hepatitis and liver transplantation. The expression levels of these molecules offer exciting prospects for disease assessment. This review provides an overview of the structure and roles of FGL1 and FGL2 in different liver conditions, emphasizing the intricate molecular regulatory processes and advancements in targeted therapies. Furthermore, it explores the potential benefits and challenges of targeting FGL1 and FGL2 for liver disease treatment and the prospects of fibrinogen-like proteins as biomarkers for liver disease, offering insights for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiongming Chen
- Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China.
| | - Yongsheng Li
- Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China.
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Magni S, Sawlekar R, Capelle CM, Tslaf V, Baron A, Zeng N, Mombaerts L, Yue Z, Yuan Y, Hefeng FQ, Gonçalves J. Inferring upstream regulatory genes of FOXP3 in human regulatory T cells from time-series transcriptomic data. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2024; 10:59. [PMID: 38811598 PMCID: PMC11137136 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-024-00387-9] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of upstream regulatory genes of a gene of interest still remains challenging. Here we applied a scalable computational method to unbiasedly predict candidate regulatory genes of critical transcription factors by searching the whole genome. We illustrated our approach with a case study on the master regulator FOXP3 of human primary regulatory T cells (Tregs). While target genes of FOXP3 have been identified, its upstream regulatory machinery still remains elusive. Our methodology selected five top-ranked candidates that were tested via proof-of-concept experiments. Following knockdown, three out of five candidates showed significant effects on the mRNA expression of FOXP3 across multiple donors. This provides insights into the regulatory mechanisms modulating FOXP3 transcriptional expression in Tregs. Overall, at the genome level this represents a high level of accuracy in predicting upstream regulatory genes of key genes of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Magni
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Rucha Sawlekar
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Christophe M Capelle
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Vera Tslaf
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Alexandre Baron
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Ni Zeng
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Laurent Mombaerts
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Zuogong Yue
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Ye Yuan
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Q Hefeng
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Jorge Gonçalves
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Belvaux, Luxembourg.
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Ziblat A, Horton BL, Higgs EF, Hatogai K, Martinez A, Shapiro JW, Kim DEC, Zha Y, Sweis RF, Gajewski TF. Batf3 + DCs and the 4-1BB/4-1BBL axis are required at the effector phase in the tumor microenvironment for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade efficacy. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114141. [PMID: 38656869 PMCID: PMC11229087 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The cellular source of positive signals that reinvigorate T cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) for the therapeutic efficacy of programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blockade has not been clearly defined. We now show that Batf3-lineage dendritic cells (DCs) are essential in this process. Flow cytometric analysis, gene-targeted mice, and blocking antibody studies revealed that 4-1BBL is a major positive co-stimulatory signal provided by these DCs within the TME that translates to CD8+ T cell functional reinvigoration and tumor regression. Immunofluorescence and spatial transcriptomics on human tumor samples revealed clustering of Batf3+ DCs and CD8+ T cells, which correlates with anti-PD-1 efficacy. In addition, proximity to Batf3+ DCs within the TME is associated with CD8+ T cell transcriptional states linked to anti-PD-1 response. Our results demonstrate that Batf3+ DCs within the TME are critical for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade efficacy and indicate a major role for the 4-1BB/4-1BB ligand (4-1BBL) axis during this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ziblat
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Brendan L Horton
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Emily F Higgs
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ken Hatogai
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Anna Martinez
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jason W Shapiro
- Center for Research Informatics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Danny E C Kim
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - YuanYuan Zha
- Human Immunological Monitoring Facility, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Randy F Sweis
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Thomas F Gajewski
- Department of Pathology, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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69
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Zhao Y, Chen C, Chen K, Sun Y, He N, Zhang X, Xu J, Shen A, Zhao S. Multi-omics analysis of macrophage-associated receptor and ligand reveals a strong prognostic signature and subtypes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12163. [PMID: 38806553 PMCID: PMC11133315 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62668-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. The interaction between receptors and ligands is the primary mode of intercellular signaling and plays a vital role in the progression of HCC. This study aimed to identify the macrophage-related receptor ligand marker genes associated with HCC and further explored the molecular immune mechanisms attributed to altered biomarkers. Single-cell RNA sequencing data containing primary and recurrent samples were downloaded from the China National GeneBank. Cell types were first identified to explore differences between immune cells from different sample sources. CellChat analysis was used to infer and analyze intercellular communication networks quantitatively. Three molecular subtypes were constructed based on the screened twenty macrophage-associated receptor ligand genes. Bulk RNA-Seq data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. After the screening, the minor absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model was employed to identify key markers. After collecting peripheral blood and clinical information from patients, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the correlation between key markers and IL-10, one of the macrophage markers. After developing a new HCC risk adjustment model and conducting analysis, it was found that there were significant differences in immune status and gene mutations between the high-risk and low-risk groups of patients based on macrophage-associated receptor and ligand genes. This study identified SPP1, ANGPT2, and NCL as key biological targets for HCC. The drug-gene interaction network analysis identified wortmannin, ribavirin, and tarnafloxin as potential therapeutic drugs for the three key markers. In a clinical cohort study, patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) resistance had significantly higher expression levels of OPN, ANGPT2, NCL, and IL-10 than patients with ICI-responsiveness. These three key markers were positively correlated with the expression level of IL-10. The signature based on macrophage-associated receptor and ligand genes can accurately predict the prognosis of patients with HCC and the sensitivity to immunotherapy. These results may help guide the development of targeted prevention and personalized treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulou Zhao
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Kang Chen
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yanjun Sun
- The Sixth People's Hospital of Yancheng City, Yancheng, China
| | - Ning He
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiubing Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Nantong Second People's Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Nantong Second People's Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Aiguo Shen
- Cancer Research Center Nantong, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
| | - Suming Zhao
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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70
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Vissing M, Sinius Pouplier S, Munch Larsen L, Krog Frandsen S, Lodin A, Lænkholm AV, Gehl J. Immune cell populations in the tumour environment following calcium electropora-tion for cutaneous metastasis: a histopathological study. Acta Oncol 2024; 63:398-410. [PMID: 38804839 PMCID: PMC11332521 DOI: 10.2340/1651-226x.2024.19462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Calcium electroporation (CaEP) involves injecting calcium into tumour tissues and using electrical pulses to create membrane pores that induce cell death. This study assesses resultant immune responses and histopathological changes in patients with cutaneous metastases. PATIENTS/MATERIALS AND METHODS The aimed cohort comprised 24 patients with metastases exceeding 5 mm. Tumours were treated once with CaEP (day 0) or twice (day 28). Biopsies were performed on days 0 and 2, with additional samples on days 7, 28, 30, 35, 60, and 90 if multiple tumours were treated. The primary endpoint was the change in tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) two days post-treatment, with secondary endpoints evaluating local and systemic immune responses via histopathological analysis of immune markers, necrosis, and inflammation. RESULTS Seventeen patients, with metastases primarily from breast cancer (14 patients), but also lung cancer (1), melanoma (1), and urothelial cancer (1), completed the study. Of the 49 lesions treated, no significant changes in TIL count or PD-L1 expression were observed. However, there was substantial necrosis and a decrease in FOXP3-expression (p = 0.0025) noted, with a slight increase in CD4+ cells but no changes in CD3, CD8, or CD20 expressions. Notably, four patients showed reduced tumour invasiveness, including one case of an abscopal response. INTERPRETATION This exploratory study indicates that CaEP can be an effective anti-tumour therapy potentially enhancing immunity. Significant necrosis and decreased regulatory lymphocytes were observed, although TIL count remained unchanged. Several patients exhibited clinical signs of immune response following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mille Vissing
- Centre for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde and Næstved, Næstved, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sandra Sinius Pouplier
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Surgical Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lars Munch Larsen
- Centre for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Stine Krog Frandsen
- Centre for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Alexey Lodin
- Centre for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Anne-Vibeke Lænkholm
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Surgical Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Julie Gehl
- Centre for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde and Næstved, Næstved, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; bDepartment of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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71
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Liao Y, Xie X, Zhang C, Zhong H, Shan L, Yu P, Xu L. Quercetin exerts anti-tumor immune mechanism by regulating IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway to deplete Treg cells. Toxicon 2024; 243:107747. [PMID: 38714236 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107747] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is still the leading cause of death among women worldwide. Due to the lack of effective drug targets, triple-negative breast cancer has a worse prognosis and higher mortality compared with other types of breast cancer, and chemotherapy is still the main treatment for triple-negative breast cancer at present. Quercetin (QUE) is a flavonoid compound found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. The mechanism of QUE has been extensively studied, such as prostate cancer, colon cancer, ovarian cancer, etc. However, the anti-tumor immune mechanism of QUE in triple-negative breast cancer remains unclear. Therefore, we assessed the anti-tumor immune effects of QUE on triple-negative breast cancer using both 4T1 cells and a xenograft mouse model of 4T1 cells. In vitro, we examined the inhibitory effects of QUE on 4T1 cells and its molecular mechanisms through MTT, Transwell, ELISA, and Western blotting. In vivo, by establishing a xenograft mouse model, we utilized flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and Western blotting to evaluate the anti-tumor immune effects of QUE on triple-negative breast cancer. The results indicate that QUE inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of 4T1 cells, concurrently significantly suppressing the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Furthermore, it depletes Treg cell content in 4T1 xenograft mice, thereby improving the tumor immune microenvironment and promoting the cytotoxicity of relevant tumor immune cells. These findings suggest that QUE may serve as a potential adjuvant for immune therapy in triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupei Liao
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoqing Xie
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Chu Zhang
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Haijing Zhong
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Luchen Shan
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Pei Yu
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lipeng Xu
- Institute of New Drug Research, College of Pharmacy/Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases/International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese. Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) /State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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72
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Wang Y, Ding S. Extracellular vesicles in cancer cachexia: deciphering pathogenic roles and exploring therapeutic horizons. J Transl Med 2024; 22:506. [PMID: 38802952 PMCID: PMC11129506 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05266-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia (CC) is a debilitating syndrome that affects 50-80% of cancer patients, varying in incidence by cancer type and significantly diminishing their quality of life. This multifactorial syndrome is characterized by muscle and fat loss, systemic inflammation, and metabolic imbalance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, play a crucial role in the progression of CC. These vesicles, produced by cancer cells and others within the tumor environment, facilitate intercellular communication by transferring proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. A comprehensive review of the literature from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science reveals insights into the formation, release, and uptake of EVs in CC, underscoring their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. The review also explores therapeutic strategies targeting EVs, which include modifying their release and content, utilizing them for drug delivery, genetically altering their contents, and inhibiting key cachexia pathways. Understanding the role of EVs in CC opens new avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, potentially mitigating the syndrome's impact on patient survival and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong First People's Hospital, Nantong, 226001, P.R. China
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, P.R. China
| | - Shengguang Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong First People's Hospital, Nantong, 226001, P.R. China.
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73
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Li J, Cao Q, Tong M. Deciphering anoikis resistance and identifying prognostic biomarkers in clear cell renal cell carcinoma epithelial cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12044. [PMID: 38802480 PMCID: PMC11130322 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62978-0] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This study tackles the persistent prognostic and management challenges of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), despite advancements in multimodal therapies. Focusing on anoikis, a critical form of programmed cell death in tumor progression and metastasis, we investigated its resistance in cancer evolution. Using single-cell RNA sequencing from seven ccRCC patients, we assessed the impact of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Anoikis-related epithelial subclusters (ARESs). Additionally, six ccRCC RNA microarray datasets from the GEO database were analyzed for robust DEGs. A novel risk prognostic model was developed through LASSO and multivariate Cox regression, validated using BEST, ULCAN, and RT-PCR. The study included functional enrichment, immune infiltration analysis in the tumor microenvironment (TME), and drug sensitivity assessments, leading to a predictive nomogram integrating clinical parameters. Results highlighted dynamic ARG expression patterns and enhanced intercellular interactions in ARESs, with significant KEGG pathway enrichment in MYC + Epithelial subclusters indicating enhanced anoikis resistance. Additionally, all ARESs were identified in the spatial context, and their locational relationships were explored. Three key prognostic genes-TIMP1, PECAM1, and CDKN1A-were identified, with the high-risk group showing greater immune infiltration and anoikis resistance, linked to poorer prognosis. This study offers a novel ccRCC risk signature, providing innovative approaches for patient management, prognosis, and personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, Liaoning, China
| | - Qingfei Cao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ming Tong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, Liaoning, China.
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Yan T, Zhou W, Li C. Discovery of a T cell proliferation-associated regulator signature correlates with prognosis risk and immunotherapy response in bladder cancer. Int Urol Nephrol 2024:10.1007/s11255-024-04086-6. [PMID: 38789872 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-024-04086-6] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily influenced by T cell activity. This study aimed to examine how T cell proliferation regulators can predict the prognosis and response to immunotherapy in patients with bladder cancer (BCa). METHODS T cell proliferation-related subtypes were determined by employing the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm that analyzed the expression patterns of T cell proliferation regulators. Subtypes were assessed for variations in prognosis, immune infiltration, and functional behaviors. Subsequently, a risk model related to T cell proliferation was created through Cox and Lasso regression analyses in the TCGA cohort and then confirmed in two GEO cohorts and an immunotherapy cohort. RESULTS BCa patients were categorized into two subtypes (C1 and C2) according to the expression profiles of 31 T cell proliferation-related genes (TRGs) with distinct prognoses and immune landscapes. The C2 subtype had a shorter overall survival (OS), with higher levels of M2 macrophage infiltration, and the activation of cancer-related pathways than the C1 subtype. Following this, thirteen prognosis-related genes that were involved in T cell proliferation were utilized to create the prognostic signature. The model's predictive accuracy was confirmed by analyzing both internal and external datasets. Individuals in the high-risk category experienced a poorer prognosis, increased immunosuppressive factors in the tumor microenvironment, and diminished responses to immunotherapy. Additionally, the immunotherapeutic prediction efficacy of the model was further confirmed by an immunotherapy cohort (anti-PD-L1 in the IMvigor210 cohort). CONCLUSIONS Our study characterized two subtypes linked to T cell proliferation in BCa patients with distinct prognoses and tumor microenvironment (TME) patterns, providing new insights into the heterogeneity of T cell proliferation in BCa and its connection to the immune landscape. The signature has prospective clinical implications for predicting outcomes and may help physicians to select prospective responders who prioritize current immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yan
- Department of Blood Purification Center, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic University, No.141, Tianjin Road, Huangshi, 435000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Urology, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Blood Purification Center, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic University, No.141, Tianjin Road, Huangshi, 435000, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Hayashi Y, Ueyama A, Funaki S, Jinushi K, Higuchi N, Morihara H, Hirata M, Nagira Y, Saito T, Kawashima A, Iwahori K, Shintani Y, Wada H. In situ analysis of CCR8 + regulatory T cells in lung cancer: suppression of GzmB + CD8 + T cells and prognostic marker implications. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:627. [PMID: 38783281 PMCID: PMC11112935 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CCR8-expressing regulatory T cells (Tregs) are selectively localized within tumors and have gained attention as potent suppressors of anti-tumor immunity. This study focused on CCR8+ Tregs and their interaction with CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment of human lung cancer. We evaluated their spatial distribution impact on CD8+ T cell effector function, specifically granzyme B (GzmB) expression, and clinical outcomes. METHODS A total of 81 patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) who underwent radical surgical resection without preoperative treatment were enrolled. Histological analyses were performed, utilizing an automated image analysis system for double-stained immunohistochemistry assays of CCR8/Foxp3 and GzmB/CD8. We investigated the association of CCR8+ Tregs and GzmB+ CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues and further evaluated the prognostic impact of their distribution profiles. RESULTS Histological evaluation using the region of interest (ROI) protocol showed that GzmB expression levels in CD8+ T cells were decreased in areas with high infiltration of CCR8+ Tregs, suggesting a suppressive effect of CCR8+ Tregs on T cell cytotoxicity in the local tumor microenvironment. Analysis of the association with clinical outcomes showed that patients with more CCR8+ Tregs and lower GzmB expression, represented by a low GzmB/CCR8 ratio, had worse progression-free survival. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that local CCR8+ Treg accumulation is associated with reduced CD8+ T cell cytotoxic activity and poor prognosis in LSCC patients, highlighting the biological role and clinical significance of CCR8+ Tregs in the tumor microenvironment. The GzmB/CCR8 ratio may be a useful prognostic factor for future clinical applications in LSCC.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/immunology
- Lung Neoplasms/pathology
- Lung Neoplasms/mortality
- Lung Neoplasms/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/surgery
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Prognosis
- Female
- Male
- Receptors, CCR8/metabolism
- Receptors, CCR8/immunology
- Granzymes/metabolism
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
- Aged
- Middle Aged
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/immunology
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/pathology
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Aged, 80 and over
- Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Hayashi
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Azumi Ueyama
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., -1-1 Futaba-Cho, Toyonaka, Osaka, 561-0825, Japan.
| | - Soichiro Funaki
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Koichi Jinushi
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Naoko Higuchi
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., -1-1 Futaba-Cho, Toyonaka, Osaka, 561-0825, Japan
| | - Hitomi Morihara
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., -1-1 Futaba-Cho, Toyonaka, Osaka, 561-0825, Japan
| | - Michinari Hirata
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., -1-1 Futaba-Cho, Toyonaka, Osaka, 561-0825, Japan
| | - Yoji Nagira
- Pharmaceutical Research Division, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., -1-1 Futaba-Cho, Toyonaka, Osaka, 561-0825, Japan
| | - Takuro Saito
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Atsunari Kawashima
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kota Iwahori
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasushi Shintani
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hisashi Wada
- Department of Clinical Research in Tumor Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Zhou L, Velegraki M, Wang Y, Mandula JK, Chang Y, Liu W, Song NJ, Kwon H, Xiao T, Bolyard C, Hong F, Xin G, Ma Q, Rubinstein MP, Wen H, Li Z. Spatial and functional targeting of intratumoral Tregs reverses CD8+ T cell exhaustion and promotes cancer immunotherapy. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e180080. [PMID: 38787791 PMCID: PMC11245154 DOI: 10.1172/jci180080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Intratumoral Tregs are key mediators of cancer immunotherapy resistance, including anti-programmed cell death (ligand) 1 [anti-PD-(L)1] immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). The mechanisms driving Treg infiltration into the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the consequence on CD8+ T cell exhaustion remain elusive. Here, we report that heat shock protein gp96 (also known as GRP94) was indispensable for Treg tumor infiltration, primarily through the roles of gp96 in chaperoning integrins. Among various gp96-dependent integrins, we found that only LFA-1 (αL integrin), and not αV, CD103 (αE), or β7 integrin, was required for Treg tumor homing. Loss of Treg infiltration into the TME by genetic deletion of gp96/LFA-1 potently induced rejection of tumors in multiple ICB-resistant murine cancer models in a CD8+ T cell-dependent manner, without loss of self-tolerance. Moreover, gp96 deletion impeded Treg activation primarily by suppressing IL-2/STAT5 signaling, which also contributed to tumor regression. By competing for intratumoral IL-2, Tregs prevented the activation of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, drove thymocyte selection-associated high mobility group box protein (TOX) induction, and induced bona fide CD8+ T cell exhaustion. By contrast, Treg ablation led to striking CD8+ T cell activation without TOX induction, demonstrating clear uncoupling of the 2 processes. Our study reveals that the gp96/LFA-1 axis plays a fundamental role in Treg biology and suggests that Treg-specific gp96/LFA-1 targeting represents a valuable strategy for cancer immunotherapy without inflicting autoinflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhou
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Maria Velegraki
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - J K Mandula
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yuzhou Chang
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - No-Joon Song
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Hyunwoo Kwon
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Tong Xiao
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Chelsea Bolyard
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Feng Hong
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, USA
| | - Gang Xin
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Qin Ma
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics
| | - Mark P. Rubinstein
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, USA
| | - Haitao Wen
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Zihai Li
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO), The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC), Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, USA
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Eain HS, Kawai H, Nakayama M, Oo MW, Ohara T, Fukuhara Y, Takabatake K, Shan Q, Soe Y, Ono K, Nakano K, Mizukawa N, Iida S, Nagatsuka H. Double-faced CX3CL1 enhances lymphangiogenesis-dependent metastasis in an aggressive subclone of oral squamous cell carcinoma. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e174618. [PMID: 38775151 PMCID: PMC11141908 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.174618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Because cancer cells have a genetically unstable nature, they give rise to genetically different variant subclones inside a single tumor. Understanding cancer heterogeneity and subclone characteristics is crucial for developing more efficacious therapies. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is characterized by high heterogeneity and plasticity. On the other hand, CX3C motif ligand 1 (CX3CL1) is a double-faced chemokine with anti- and pro-tumor functions. Our study reported that CX3CL1 functioned differently in tumors with different cancer phenotypes, both in vivo and in vitro. Mouse OSCC 1 (MOC1) and MOC2 cells responded similarly to CX3CL1 in vitro. However, in vivo, CX3CL1 increased keratinization in indolent MOC1 cancer, while CX3CL1 promoted cervical lymphatic metastasis in aggressive MOC2 cancer. These outcomes were due to double-faced CX3CL1 effects on different immune microenvironments indolent and aggressive cancer created. Furthermore, we established that CX3CL1 promoted cancer metastasis via the lymphatic pathway by stimulating lymphangiogenesis and transendothelial migration of lymph-circulating tumor cells. CX3CL1 enrichment in lymphatic metastasis tissues was observed in aggressive murine and human cell lines. OSCC patient samples with CX3CL1 enrichment exhibited a strong correlation with lower overall survival rates and higher recurrence and distant metastasis rates. In conclusion, CX3CL1 is a pivotal factor that stimulates the metastasis of aggressive cancer subclones within the heterogeneous tumors to metastasize, and our study demonstrates the prognostic value of CX3CL1 enrichment in long-term monitoring in OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Htoo Shwe Eain
- Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery, and
| | | | - Masaaki Nakayama
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - May Wathone Oo
- Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine
- Office of Innovative Medicine, Organization for Research Strategy and Development, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Yamin Soe
- Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine
| | - Kisho Ono
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | | | | | - Seiji Iida
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery, and
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Wang N, Wang B, Maswikiti EP, Yu Y, Song K, Ma C, Han X, Ma H, Deng X, Yu R, Chen H. AMPK-a key factor in crosstalk between tumor cell energy metabolism and immune microenvironment? Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:237. [PMID: 38762523 PMCID: PMC11102436 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02011-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has now garnered significant attention as an essential component in cancer therapy during this new era. However, due to immune tolerance, immunosuppressive environment, tumor heterogeneity, immune escape, and other factors, the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy has been limited with its application to very small population size. Energy metabolism not only affects tumor progression but also plays a crucial role in immune escape. Tumor cells are more metabolically active and need more energy and nutrients to maintain their growth, which causes the surrounding immune cells to lack glucose, oxygen, and other nutrients, with the result of decreased immune cell activity and increased immunosuppressive cells. On the other hand, immune cells need to utilize multiple metabolic pathways, for instance, cellular respiration, and oxidative phosphorylation pathways to maintain their activity and normal function. Studies have shown that there is a significant difference in the energy expenditure of immune cells in the resting and activated states. Notably, competitive uptake of glucose is the main cause of impaired T cell function. Conversely, glutamine competition often affects the activation of most immune cells and the transformation of CD4+T cells into inflammatory subtypes. Excessive metabolite lactate often impairs the function of NK cells. Furthermore, the metabolite PGE2 also often inhibits the immune response by inhibiting Th1 differentiation, B cell function, and T cell activation. Additionally, the transformation of tumor-suppressive M1 macrophages into cancer-promoting M2 macrophages is influenced by energy metabolism. Therefore, energy metabolism is a vital factor and component involved in the reconstruction of the tumor immune microenvironment. Noteworthy and vital is that not only does the metabolic program of tumor cells affect the antigen presentation and recognition of immune cells, but also the metabolic program of immune cells affects their own functions, ultimately leading to changes in tumor immune function. Metabolic intervention can not only improve the response of immune cells to tumors, but also increase the immunogenicity of tumors, thereby expanding the population who benefit from immunotherapy. Consequently, identifying metabolic crosstalk molecules that link tumor energy metabolism and immune microenvironment would be a promising anti-tumor immune strategy. AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) is a ubiquitous serine/threonine kinase in eukaryotes, serving as the central regulator of metabolic pathways. The sequential activation of AMPK and its associated signaling cascades profoundly impacts the dynamic alterations in tumor cell bioenergetics. By modulating energy metabolism and inflammatory responses, AMPK exerts significant influence on tumor cell development, while also playing a pivotal role in tumor immunotherapy by regulating immune cell activity and function. Furthermore, AMPK-mediated inflammatory response facilitates the recruitment of immune cells to the tumor microenvironment (TIME), thereby impeding tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis. AMPK, as the link between cell energy homeostasis, tumor bioenergetics, and anti-tumor immunity, will have a significant impact on the treatment and management of oncology patients. That being summarized, the main objective of this review is to pinpoint the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy by regulating the energy metabolism of the tumor immune microenvironment and to provide guidance for the development of new immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Bofang Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Ewetse Paul Maswikiti
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Yang Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Kewei Song
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Chenhui Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Xiaowen Han
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Huanhuan Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Xiaobo Deng
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Rong Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Hao Chen
- The Department of Tumor Surgery, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China.
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Oncology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China.
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79
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Wang J, Lou Y, Wang S, Zhang Z, You J, Zhu Y, Yao Y, Hao Y, Liu P, Xu LX. IFNγ at the early stage induced after cryo-thermal therapy maintains CD4 + Th1-prone differentiation, leading to long-term antitumor immunity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1345046. [PMID: 38827732 PMCID: PMC11140566 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1345046] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recently, more and more research illustrated the importance of inducing CD4+ T helper type (Th)-1 dominant immunity for the success of tumor immunotherapy. Our prior studies revealed the crucial role of CD4+ Th1 cells in orchestrating systemic and durable antitumor immunity, which contributes to the satisfactory outcomes of the novel cryo-thermal therapy in the B16F10 tumor model. However, the mechanism for maintaining the cryo-thermal therapy-mediated durable CD4+ Th1-dominant response remains uncovered. Additionally, cryo-thermal-induced early-stage CD4+ Th1-dominant T cell response showed a correlation with the favorable prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM). We hypothesized that CD4+ Th1-dominant differentiation induced during the early stage post cryo-thermal therapy would affect the balance of CD4+ subsets at the late phase. Methods To understand the role of interferon (IFN)-γ, the major effector of Th1 subsets, in maintaining long-term CD4+ Th1-prone polarization, B16F10 melanoma model was established in this study and a monoclonal antibody was used at the early stage post cryo-thermal therapy for interferon (IFN)-γ signaling blockade, and the influence on the phenotypic and functional change of immune cells was evaluated. Results IFNγ at the early stage after cryo-thermal therapy maintained long-lasting CD4+ Th1-prone immunity by directly controlling Th17, Tfh, and Tregs polarization, leading to the hyperactivation of Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represented by abundant interleukin (IL)-1β generation, and thereby further amplifying Th1 response. Discussion Our finding emphasized the key role of early-phase IFNγ abundance post cryo-thermal therapy, which could be a biomarker for better prognosis after cryo-thermal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ping Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lisa X. Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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80
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Peng XL, Kharitonova EV, Xu Y, Kearney JF, Luan C, Chan PS, Hariharan A, McCabe IC, Leary JR, Morrison AB, Trembath HE, LaBella ME, Herera Loeza SG, Cliff A, Kim HJ, Belt BA, Panni RZ, Linehan DC, Damrauer JS, Iuga AC, Kim WY, Rashid NU, Yeh JJ. Determination of permissive and restraining cancer-associated fibroblast (DeCAF) subtypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.14.594197. [PMID: 38798565 PMCID: PMC11118336 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.14.594197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) subpopulations in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have been identified using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) with divergent characteristics, but their clinical relevance remains unclear. We translate scRNAseq-derived CAF cell-subpopulation-specific marker genes to bulk RNAseq data, and develop a single- sample classifier, DeCAF, for the classification of clinically rest raining and perm issive CAF subtypes. We validate DeCAF in 19 independent bulk transcriptomic datasets across four tumor types (PDAC, mesothelioma, bladder and renal cell carcinoma). DeCAF subtypes have distinct histology features, immune landscapes, and are prognostic and predict response to therapy across cancer types. We demonstrate that DeCAF is clinically replicable and robust for the classification of CAF subtypes in patients for multiple tumor types, providing a better framework for the future development and translation of therapies against permissive CAF subtypes and preservation of restraining CAF subtypes. Significance We introduce a replicable and robust classifier, DeCAF, that delineates the significance of the role of permissive and restraining CAF subtypes in cancer patients. DeCAF is clinically tractable, prognostic and predictive of treatment response in multiple cancer types and lays the translational groundwork for the preclinical and clinical development of CAF subtype specific therapies.
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81
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Liang W, Yang X, Li X, Wang P, Zhu Z, Liu S, Xu D, Zhi X, Xue J. Investigating gene signatures associated with immunity in colon adenocarcinoma to predict the immunotherapy effectiveness using NFM and WGCNA algorithms. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7596-7621. [PMID: 38742936 PMCID: PMC11131999 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205763] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), a frequently encountered and highly lethal malignancy of the digestive system, has been the focus of intensive research regarding its prognosis. The intricate immune microenvironment plays a pivotal role in the pathological progression of COAD; nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This study aims to explore the immune gene expression patterns in COAD, construct a robust prognostic model, and delve into the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby providing critical support for individualized treatment strategies and prognostic evaluation. Initially, we curated a comprehensive dataset by screening 2600 immune-related genes (IRGs) from the ImmPort and InnateDB databases, successfully obtaining a rich data resource. Subsequently, the COAD patient cohort was classified using the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm, enabling accurate categorization. Continuing on, utilizing the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method, we analyzed the top 5000 genes with the smallest p-values among the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between immune subtypes. Through this rigorous screening process, we identified the gene modules with the strongest correlation to the COAD subpopulation, and the intersection of genes in these modules with DEGs (COAD vs COAD vs Normal colon tissue) is referred to as Differentially Expressed Immune Genes Associated with COAD (DEIGRC). Employing diverse bioinformatics methodologies, we successfully developed a prognostic model (DPM) consisting of six genes derived from the DEIGRC, which was further validated across multiple independent datasets. Not only does this predictive model accurately forecast the prognosis of COAD patients, but it also provides valuable insights for formulating personalized treatment regimens. Within the constructed DPM, we observed a downregulation of CALB2 expression levels in COAD tissues, whereas NOXA1, KDF1, LARS2, GSR, and TIMP1 exhibited upregulated expression levels. These genes likely play indispensable roles in the initiation and progression of COAD and thus represent potential therapeutic targets for patient management. Furthermore, our investigation into the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis revealed associations with relevant processes such as fat digestion and absorption, cancer gene protein polysaccharides, and nitrogen metabolism. Consequently, genes including CAV1, ANXA1, CPS1, EDNRA, and GC emerge as promising candidates as therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby providing crucial insights for future clinical practices and drug development. In summary, this study uncovers the immune gene expression patterns in COAD, establishes a robust prognostic model, and elucidates the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby possessing significant theoretical and clinical implications. These findings are anticipated to offer substantial support for both the treatment and prognosis management of COAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizheng Liang
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Xiangyu Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong 400010, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiushen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Zhenpeng Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Bioimaging Core of Shenzhen Bay Laboratory Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518132, Guangdong, China
| | - Dandan Xu
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Xuejun Zhi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Jun Xue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
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Santiso A, Heinemann A, Kargl J. Prostaglandin E2 in the Tumor Microenvironment, a Convoluted Affair Mediated by EP Receptors 2 and 4. Pharmacol Rev 2024; 76:388-413. [PMID: 38697857 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.123.000901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The involvement of the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) system in cancer progression has long been recognized. PGE2 functions as an autocrine and paracrine signaling molecule with pleiotropic effects in the human body. High levels of intratumoral PGE2 and overexpression of the key metabolic enzymes of PGE2 have been observed and suggested to contribute to tumor progression. This has been claimed for different types of solid tumors, including, but not limited to, lung, breast, and colon cancer. PGE2 has direct effects on tumor cells and angiogenesis that are known to promote tumor development. However, one of the main mechanisms behind PGE2 driving cancerogenesis is currently thought to be anchored in suppressed antitumor immunity, thus providing possible therapeutic targets to be used in cancer immunotherapies. EP2 and EP4, two receptors for PGE2, are emerging as being the most relevant for this purpose. This review aims to summarize the known roles of PGE2 in the immune system and its functions within the tumor microenvironment. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has long been known to be a signaling molecule in cancer. Its presence in tumors has been repeatedly associated with disease progression. Elucidation of its effects on immunological components of the tumor microenvironment has highlighted the potential of PGE2 receptor antagonists in cancer treatment, particularly in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapeutics. Adjuvant treatment could increase the response rates and the efficacy of immune-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Santiso
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Akos Heinemann
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Julia Kargl
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Wang B, Zhou J, Li R, Tang D, Cao Z, Xu C, Xiao H. Activating CD8 + T Cells by Pt(IV) Prodrug-Based Nanomedicine and aPD-L1 Antibody for Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311640. [PMID: 38341667 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed substantial progress in cancer immunotherapy, specifically T cell-based therapies. However, the application of T cell therapies has been primarily limited to hematologic malignancies, with limited success in the treatment of solid tumors. The main challenge in treating solid tumor is immune escape, which is characterized by reduced antigenicity, diminished immunogenicity, and the development of suppressive tumor immune microenvironments. To address these obstacles and restore T cell-mediated anti-tumor responses, a novel nanoparticle formulation known as PRA@Oxa-c16 is developed. This innovative approach combines retinoic acid and Pt(IV) to specifically target and overcome immune escape. Notably, the therapeutic efficacy of PRA@Oxa-c16 primarily relies on its ability to induce anti-tumor T cell responses, in contrast to the cytotoxicity associated with conventional chemotherapeutic agents. When combined with an immune checkpoint blockade, anti-programmed death-ligand 1 antibody, PRA@Oxa-c16 effectively eliminates solid tumors and induces immune memory responses, which prevent tumor metastasis and recurrence. This promising approach holds great potential for enhancing the treatment of solid tumors with T cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingyu Zhou
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ruitong Li
- Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai university, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Dongsheng Tang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Chun Xu
- School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4006, Australia
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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Kürten CHL, Ferris RL. Neoadjuvant immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Laryngorhinootologie 2024; 103:S167-S187. [PMID: 38697147 DOI: 10.1055/a-2183-5802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The neoadjuvant immunotherapy approach marks a significant shift in the treatment paradigm of potentially curable HNSCC. Here, current therapies, despite being highly individualized and advanced, often fall short in achieving satisfactory long-term survival rates and are frequently associated with substantial morbidity.The primary advantage of this approach lies in its potential to intensify and enhance treatment regimens, offering a distinct modality that complements the existing triad of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Checkpoint inhibitors have been at the forefront of this evolution. Demonstrating moderate yet significant survival benefits in the recurrent-metastatic setting with a relatively better safety profile compared to conventional treatments, these agents hold promise when considered for earlier stages of HNSCC.On the other hand, a significant potential benefit of introducing immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant phase is the possibility of treatment de-escalation. By reducing the tumor burden before surgery, this strategy could lead to less invasive surgical interventions. The prospect of organ-sparing protocols becomes a realistic and highly valued goal in this context. Further, the early application of immunotherapy might catalyze a more effective and durable immune response. The induction of an immune memory may potentially lead to a more effective surveillance of residual disease, decreasing the rates of local, regional, and distant recurrences, thereby enhancing overall and recurrence-free survival.However, neoadjuvant immunotherapy is not without its challenges. One of the primary concerns is the safety and adverse events profile. While data suggest that adverse events are relatively rare and manageable, the long-term safety profile in the neoadjuvant setting, especially in the context of curative intent, remains a subject for ongoing research. Another unsolved issue lies in the accurate assessment of treatment response. The discrepancy between radiographic assessment using RECIST criteria and histological findings has been noted, indicating a gap in current imaging techniques' ability to accurately reflect the true efficacy of immunotherapy. This gap underscores the necessity for improved imaging methodologies and the development of new radiologic and pathologic criteria tailored to evaluate the response to immunotherapy accurately.Treatment combinations and timing represent another layer of complexity. There is a vast array of possibilities in combining immunotherapy agents with conventional chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, and other experimental treatments. Determining the optimal treatment regimen for individual patients becomes an intricate task, especially when comparing small, single-arm, non-randomized trials with varying regimens and outcome measures.Moreover, one needs to consider the importance of pre- and intraoperative decision-making in the context of neoadjuvant immunotherapy. As experience with this treatment paradigm grows, there is potential for more tailored surgical approaches based on the patient's remaining disease post-neoadjuvant treatment. This consideration is particularly relevant in extensive surgeries, where organ-sparing protocols could be evaluated.In practical terms, the multi-modal nature of this treatment strategy introduces complexities, especially outside clinical trial settings. Patients face challenges in navigating the treatment landscape, which involves coordination across multiple medical disciplines, highlighting the necessity for streamlined care pathways at specialized centers to facilitate effective treatment management if the neoadjuvant approach is introduced to the real-world.These potential harms and open questions underscore the critical need for meticulously designed clinical trials and correlational studies to ensure patient safety and efficacy. Only these can ensure that this new treatment approach is introduced in a safe way and fulfils the promise it theoretically holds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius H L Kürten
- Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Essen
| | - Robert L Ferris
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Xiao Z, Wang S, Chen J, Li Y, Jiang Y, Tin VP, Liu J, Hu H, Wong MP, Pan Y, Yam JWP. The Dual Role of the NFATc2/galectin-9 Axis in Modulating Tumor-Initiating Cell Phenotypes and Immune Suppression in Lung Adenocarcinoma. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306059. [PMID: 38528665 PMCID: PMC11132051 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-initiating cells (TICs) resilience and an immunosuppressive microenvironment are aggressive oncogenic phenotypes that contribute to unsatisfactory long-term outcomes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. The molecular mechanisms mediating the interaction between TICs and immune tolerance have not been elucidated. The role of Galectin-9 in oncogenesis and immunosuppressive microenvironment is still unknown. This study explored the potential role of galectin-9 in TIC regulation and immune modulation in LUAD. The results show that galectin-9 supports TIC properties in LUAD. Co-culture of patient-derived organoids and matched peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed that tumor-secreted galectin-9 suppressed T cell cytotoxicity and induced regulatory T cells (Tregs). Clinically, galectin-9 is upregulated in human LUAD. High expression of galectin-9 predicted poor recurrence-free survival and correlated with high levels of Treg infiltration. LGALS9, the gene encoding galectin-9, is found to be transcriptionally regulated by the nuclear factor of activated T cells 2 (NFATc2), a previously reported TIC regulator, via in silico prediction and luciferase reporter assays. Overall, the results suggest that the NFATc2/galectin-9 axis plays a dual role in TIC regulation and immune suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi‐Jie Xiao
- Scientific Research CentreThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Bone Tissue Repair and Translational ResearchThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
- Department of PathologySchool of Clinical MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong999077Hong Kong
| | - Si‐Qi Wang
- Department of PathologySchool of Clinical MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong999077Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and ReconstructionChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineBeijing100101China
| | - Jun‐Jiang Chen
- Department of PhysiologySchool of MedicineJinan UniversityGuangzhou510000China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryThe Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Yuchen Jiang
- Scientific Research CentreThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
| | - Vicky Pui‐Chi Tin
- Department of PathologySchool of Clinical MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong999077Hong Kong
| | - Jia Liu
- Scientific Research CentreThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
| | - Huiyi Hu
- Scientific Research CentreThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
| | - Maria Pik Wong
- Department of PathologySchool of Clinical MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong999077Hong Kong
| | - Yihang Pan
- Scientific Research CentreThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518000China
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of PathologySchool of Clinical MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong999077Hong Kong
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Zhong D, Shi Y, Ma W, Liang Y, Liu H, Qin Y, Zhang L, Yang Q, Huang X, Lu Y, Shang J. Single-cell profiling reveals the metastasis-associated immune signature of hepatocellular carcinoma. Immun Inflamm Dis 2024; 12:e1264. [PMID: 38780041 PMCID: PMC11112628 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM Metastasis is the leading cause of mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The metastasis-associated immune signature in HCC is worth exploring. METHODS Bioinformatic analysis was conducted based on the single-cell transcriptome data derived from HCC patients in different stages. Cellular composition, pseudotime state transition, and cell-cell interaction were further analyzed and verified. RESULTS Generally, HCC with metastasis exhibited suppressive immune microenvironment, while HCC without metastasis exhibited active immune microenvironment. Concretely, effector regulatory T cells (eTregs) were found to be enriched in HCC with metastasis. PHLDA1 was identified as one of exhaustion-specific genes and verified to be associated with worse prognosis in HCC patients. Moreover, A novel cluster of CCR7+ dendritic cells (DCs) was identified with high expression of maturation and migration marker genes. Pseudotime analysis showed that inhibition of differentiation occurred in CCR7+ DCs rather than cDC1 in HCC with metastasis. Furthermore, interaction analysis showed that the reduction of CCR7+ DCs lead to impaired CCR7/CCL19 interaction in HCC with metastasis. CONCLUSIONS HCC with metastasis exhibited upregulation of exhaustion-specific genes of eTregs and inhibition of CCL signal of a novel DC cluster, which added new dimensions to the immune landscape and provided new immune therapeutic targets in advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyuan Zhong
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- School of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ying Shi
- School of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduSichuanChina
| | - Wenzhe Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese MedicineMacau University of Science and TechnologyMacau SARChina
| | - Yuxin Liang
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- School of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hanjie Liu
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Yingying Qin
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Lu Zhang
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Qinyan Yang
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Xiaolun Huang
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- School of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yuanjun Lu
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Jin Shang
- Liver Transplantation Center and HBP Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer CenterAffiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
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Strachowska M, Robaszkiewicz A. Characteristics of anticancer activity of CBP/p300 inhibitors - Features of their classes, intracellular targets and future perspectives of their application in cancer treatment. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 257:108636. [PMID: 38521246 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108636] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Due to the contribution of highly homologous acetyltransferases CBP and p300 to transcription elevation of oncogenes and other cancer promoting factors, these enzymes emerge as possible epigenetic targets of anticancer therapy. Extensive efforts in search for small molecule inhibitors led to development of compounds targeting histone acetyltransferase catalytic domain or chromatin-interacting bromodomain of CBP/p300, as well as dual BET and CBP/p300 inhibitors. The promising anticancer efficacy in in vitro and mice models led CCS1477 and NEO2734 to clinical trials. However, none of the described inhibitors is perfectly specific to CBP/p300 since they share similarity of a key functional domains with other enzymes, which are critically associated with cancer progression and their antagonists demonstrate remarkable clinical efficacy in cancer therapy. Therefore, we revise the possible and clinically relevant off-targets of CBP/p300 inhibitors that can be blocked simultaneously with CBP/p300 thereby improving the anticancer potential of CBP/p300 inhibitors and pharmacokinetic predicting data such as absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Strachowska
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of General Biophysics, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; University of Lodz, Bio-Med-Chem Doctoral School of the University of Lodz and Lodz Institutes of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Banacha 12 /16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Robaszkiewicz
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of General Biophysics, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Institute of Fundamental and Basic Research, 600 5(th) Street South, Saint Petersburg FL33701, United States of America.
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Sun W, Xie S, Liu SF, Hu X, Xing D. Evolving Tumor Characteristics and Smart Nanodrugs for Tumor Immunotherapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3919-3942. [PMID: 38708176 PMCID: PMC11070166 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s453265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Typical physiological characteristics of tumors, such as weak acidity, low oxygen content, and upregulation of certain enzymes in the tumor microenvironment (TME), provide survival advantages when exposed to targeted attacks by drugs and responsive nanomedicines. Consequently, cancer treatment has significantly progressed in recent years. However, the evolution and adaptation of tumor characteristics still pose many challenges for current treatment methods. Therefore, efficient and precise cancer treatments require an understanding of the heterogeneity degree of various factors in cancer cells during tumor evolution to exploit the typical TME characteristics and manage the mutation process. The highly heterogeneous tumor and infiltrating stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular components collectively form a unique TME, which plays a crucial role in tumor malignancy, including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and immune escape. Therefore, the development of new treatment methods that can adapt to the evolutionary characteristics of tumors has become an intense focus in current cancer treatment research. This paper explores the latest understanding of cancer evolution, focusing on how tumors use new antigens to shape their "new faces"; how immune system cells, such as cytotoxic T cells, regulatory T cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells, help tumors become "invisible", that is, immune escape; whether the diverse cancer-associated fibroblasts provide support and coordination for tumors; and whether it is possible to attack tumors in reverse. This paper discusses the limitations of targeted therapy driven by tumor evolution factors and explores future strategies and the potential of intelligent nanomedicines, including the systematic coordination of tumor evolution factors and adaptive methods, to meet this therapeutic challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshe Sun
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaowei Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi Feng Liu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaokun Hu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongming Xing
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
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Liang Y, Luo H, Li X, Liu S, Habib A, Liu B, Huang J, Wang J, Yi H, Hu B, Zheng L, Xie J, Zhu N. PD-L1 targeted peptide demonstrates potent antitumor and immunomodulatory activity in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1367040. [PMID: 38745661 PMCID: PMC11091243 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1367040] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In recent years, immunotherapy has been emerging as a promising alternative therapeutic method for cancer patients, offering potential benefits. The expression of PD-L1 by tumors can inhibit the T-cell response to the tumor and allow the tumor to evade immune surveillance. To address this issue, cancer immunotherapy has shown promise in disrupting the interaction between PD-L1 and its ligand PD-1. Methods We used mirror-image phage display technology in our experiment to screen and determine PD-L1 specific affinity peptides (PPL-C). Using CT26 cells, we established a transplanted mouse tumor model to evaluate the inhibitory effects of PPL-C on tumor growth in vivo. We also demonstrated that PPL-C inhibited the differentiation of T regulatory cells (Tregs) and regulated the production of cytokines. Results In vitro, PPL-C has a strong affinity for PD-L1, with a binding rate of 0.75 μM. An activation assay using T cells and mixed lymphocytes demonstrated that PPL-C inhibits the interaction between PD-1 and PD-L1. PPL-C or an anti-PD-L1 antibody significantly reduced the rate of tumor mass development in mice compared to those given a control peptide (78% versus 77%, respectively). The results of this study demonstrate that PPL-C prevents or retards tumor growth. Further, immunotherapy with PPL-C enhances lymphocyte cytotoxicity and promotes proliferation in CT26-bearing mice. Conclusion PPL-C exhibited antitumor and immunoregulatory properties in the colon cancer. Therefore, PPL-C peptides of low molecular weight could serve as effective cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulai Liang
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huazao Luo
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Renal Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Arslan Habib
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Baoxiu Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiansheng Huang
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingbo Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Yi
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Hu
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liuhai Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Naishuo Zhu
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Shan Y, Xie T, Sun Y, Lu Z, Topatana W, Juengpanich S, Chen T, Han Y, Cao J, Hu J, Li S, Cai X, Chen M. Lipid metabolism in tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells: perspective to precision immunotherapy. Biomark Res 2024; 12:41. [PMID: 38644503 PMCID: PMC11034130 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00588-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential to the negative regulation of the immune system, as they avoid excessive inflammation and mediate tumor development. The abundance of Tregs in tumor tissues suggests that Tregs may be eliminated or functionally inhibited to stimulate antitumor immunity. However, immunotherapy targeting Tregs has been severely hampered by autoimmune diseases due to the systemic elimination of Tregs. Recently, emerging studies have shown that metabolic regulation can specifically target tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and lipid accumulation in TME is associated with immunosuppression. Nevertheless, how Tregs actively regulate metabolic reprogramming to outcompete effector T cells (Teffs), and how lipid metabolic reprogramming contributes to the immunomodulatory capacity of Tregs have not been fully discussed. This review will discuss the physiological processes by which lipid accumulation confers a metabolic advantage to tumor-infiltrating Tregs (TI-Tregs) and amplifies their immunosuppressive functions. Furthermore, we will provide a summary of the driving effects of various metabolic regulators on the metabolic reprogramming of Tregs. Finally, we propose that targeting the lipid metabolism of TI-Tregs could be efficacious either alone or in conjunction with immune checkpoint therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukai Shan
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianao Xie
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuchao Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Win Topatana
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sarun Juengpanich
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yina Han
- Department of Pathology, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiasheng Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shijie Li
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xiujun Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Mingyu Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Endoscopic Technique Research of Zhejiang Province, No.3 East Qingchun Road, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China.
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Gilad Y, Shimon O, Han SJ, Lonard DM, O’Malley BW. Steroid receptor coactivators in Treg and Th17 cell biology and function. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389041. [PMID: 38698860 PMCID: PMC11063348 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389041] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Steroid receptor coactivators (SRCs) are master regulators of transcription that play key roles in human physiology and pathology. SRCs are particularly important for the regulation of the immune system with major roles in lymphocyte fate determination and function, macrophage activity, regulation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) transcriptional activity and other immune system biology. The three members of the p160 SRC family comprise a network of immune-regulatory proteins that can function independently or act in synergy with each other, and compensate for - or moderate - the activity of other SRCs. Recent evidence indicates that the SRCs are key participants in governing numerous aspects of CD4+ T cell biology. Here we review findings that establish the SRCs as essential regulators of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells, with a focus on their crucial roles in Treg immunity in cancer and Treg-Th17 cell phenotypic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosi Gilad
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CoRegen, Inc., Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ortal Shimon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CoRegen, Inc., Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sang Jun Han
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CoRegen, Inc., Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Nuclear Receptor, Transcription and Chromatin Biology Program, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - David M. Lonard
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CoRegen, Inc., Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Nuclear Receptor, Transcription and Chromatin Biology Program, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Bert W. O’Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CoRegen, Inc., Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Nuclear Receptor, Transcription and Chromatin Biology Program, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Shi Y, Li K, Yuan Y, Wang C, Yang Z, Zuo D, Niu Y, Qiu J, Li B, Yuan Y, He W. Comprehensive analysis of m6A modification in immune infiltration, metabolism and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:138. [PMID: 38627760 PMCID: PMC11022358 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03307-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is important in regulating mRNA stability, splicing, and translation, and it also contributes to tumor development. However, there is still limited understanding of the comprehensive effects of m6A modification patterns on the tumor immune microenvironment, metabolism, and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we utilized unsupervised clustering based on the expression of 23 m6A regulators to identify m6A clusters. We identified differential m6A modification patterns and characterized m6A-gene-cluster A, which exhibited poorer survival rates, a higher abundance of Treg cells, and increased expression of TGFβ in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Additionally, m6A-gene-cluster A demonstrated higher levels of glycolysis activity, cholesterol metabolism, and fatty acid biosynthesis. We also found that the m6A score was associated with prognosis and drug resistance. Patients with a low m6A score experienced worse prognoses, which were linked to an abundance of Treg cells, upregulation of TGFβ, and increased metabolic activity. HCC patients with a higher m6A score showed improved prognosis following sorafenib treatment and immunotherapy. In conclusion, we reveals the association between m6A modification patterns and the tumor immune microenvironment, metabolism, and drug resistance in HCC. Furthermore, the m6A score holds potential as a predictive factor for the efficacy of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxing Shi
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat- sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yichuan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Chenwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhiwen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Dinglan Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yi Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jiliang Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road E, 510060, Guangzhou, P.R. China.
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93
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Ziółkowska-Suchanek I, Żurawek M. FOXP3: A Player of Immunogenetic Architecture in Lung Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:493. [PMID: 38674427 PMCID: PMC11050689 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) is considered to be a prominent component of the immune system expressed in regulatory T cells (Tregs). Tregs are immunosuppressive cells that regulate immune homeostasis and self-tolerance. FOXP3 was originally thought to be a Tregs-specific molecule, but recent studies have pinpointed that FOXP3 is expressed in a diversity of benign tumors and carcinomas. The vast majority of the data have shown that FOXP3 is correlated with an unfavorable prognosis, although there are some reports indicating the opposite function of this molecule. Here, we review recent progress in understanding the FOXP3 role in the immunogenetic architecture of lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer-related death. We discuss the prognostic significance of tumor FOXP3 expression, tumor-infiltrating FOXP3-lymphocytes, tumor FOXP3 in tumor microenvironments and the potential of FOXP3-targeted therapy.
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94
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Nurla LA, Gheorghe E, Aşchie M, Cozaru GC, Orășanu CI, Boşoteanu M. P16-CD8-Ki67 Triple Algorithm for Prediction of CDKN2A Mutations in Patients with Multiple Primary and Familial Melanoma. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:813. [PMID: 38667459 PMCID: PMC11049611 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, a malignant neuroectodermic tumor originating from the neural crest, presents a growing global public health challenge and is anticipated to become the second most prevalent malignancy in the USA by 2040. The CDKN2A gene, particularly p16INK4a, plays a pivotal role in inhibiting the cell cycle via the cyclin D/CDK2-pRb pathway in certain tumors. In familial melanomas (FM), 40% exhibit CDKN2A mutations affecting p16INK4a, impacting checkpoint G1, and stabilizing p53 expression. This study aims to establish a scoring system using immunohistochemical antibodies, providing a cost-saving approach to classify multiple primary melanomas (MPM) and FM patients based on their mutational status, thus mitigating genetic testing expenses. This retrospective study included 23 patients with MPM and FM, assessing the p16, CD8, and Ki67 immunohistochemical status. Analyses of each parameter and associations between their value intervals and genetic CDKN2A status were conducted. A total score of at least 9 out of 10 points per tumor defined melanomas with homozygous CDKN2A deletions, exhibiting a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 94.11%. In conclusion, p16, CD8, and Ki67 individually serve as valuable indicators for predicting melanoma evolution. The algorithm, comprising these three immunohistochemical parameters based on their prognostic and evolutionary significance, proves to be a valuable auxiliary diagnostic tool for cost-effective prediction of mutational status in detecting multiple and familial primary melanomas with CDKN2A homozygous deletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana-Andreea Nurla
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Elias” Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Institute of Doctoral Studies, Doctoral School of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanţa, 900573 Constanta, Romania
| | - Emma Gheorghe
- Department of Dermatology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanţa, 900527 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Aşchie
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanţa, 900527 Constanta, Romania
- Department VIII—Medical Sciences, Academy of Romanian Scientists, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Georgeta Camelia Cozaru
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Cristian Ionuț Orășanu
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mǎdǎlina Boşoteanu
- Clinical Service of Pathology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanţa, 900527 Constanta, Romania
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95
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Ke S, Lei Y, Guo Y, Xie F, Yu Y, Geng H, Zhong Y, Xu D, Liu X, Yu F, Xia X, Zhang Z, Zhu C, Ling W, Li B, Zhao W. CD177 drives the transendothelial migration of Treg cells enriched in human colorectal cancer. Clin Transl Immunology 2024; 13:e1506. [PMID: 38596253 PMCID: PMC11003710 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Regulatory T (Treg) cells regulate immunity in autoimmune diseases and cancers. However, immunotherapies that target tumor-infiltrating Treg cells often induce unwanted immune responses and tissue inflammation. Our research focussed on exploring the expression pattern of CD177 in tumor-infiltrating Treg cells with the aim of identifying a potential target that can enhance immunotherapy effectiveness. Methods Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and survival data were obtained from public databases. Twenty-one colorectal cancer patient samples, including fresh tumor tissues, peritumoral tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), were analysed using flow cytometry. The transendothelial activity of CD177+ Treg cells was substantiated using in vitro experiments. Results ScRNA-seq and flow cytometry results indicated that CD177 was exclusively expressed in intratumoral Treg cells. CD177+ Treg cells exhibited greater activation status and expressed elevated Treg cell canonical markers and immune checkpoint molecules than CD177- Treg cells. We further discovered that both intratumoral CD177+ Treg cells and CD177-overexpressing induced Treg (iTreg) cells had lower levels of PD-1 than their CD177- counterparts. Moreover, CD177 overexpression significantly enhanced the transendothelial migration of Treg cells in vitro. Conclusions These results demonstrated that Treg cells with higher CD177 levels exhibited an enhanced activation status and transendothelial migration capacity. Our findings suggest that CD177 may serve as an immunotherapeutic target and that overexpression of CD177 may improve the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouyu Ke
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yi Lei
- Center for Immune‐Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and MicrobiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yixian Guo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Feng Xie
- Center for Immune‐Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and MicrobiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yimeng Yu
- Center for Immune‐Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and MicrobiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Haigang Geng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yiqing Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Danhua Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Fengrong Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiang Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Zizhen Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Chunchao Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Wei Ling
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune‐Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and MicrobiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Wenyi Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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96
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Wang Y, Chen X, Tang N, Guo M, Ai D. Boosting Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma-Specific Drug Discovery Using a Deep Learning Algorithm and Single-Cell Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4134. [PMID: 38612943 PMCID: PMC11012314 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma, has the high heterogeneity of a highly complex tumor microenvironment. Existing clinical intervention strategies, such as target therapy and immunotherapy, have failed to achieve good therapeutic effects. In this article, single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from six patients downloaded from the GEO database were adopted to describe the tumor microenvironment (TME) of ccRCC, including its T cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), endothelial cells (ECs), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Based on the differential typing of the TME, we identified tumor cell-specific regulatory programs that are mediated by three key transcription factors (TFs), whilst the TF EPAS1/HIF-2α was identified via drug virtual screening through our analysis of ccRCC's protein structure. Then, a combined deep graph neural network and machine learning algorithm were used to select anti-ccRCC compounds from bioactive compound libraries, including the FDA-approved drug library, natural product library, and human endogenous metabolite compound library. Finally, five compounds were obtained, including two FDA-approved drugs (flufenamic acid and fludarabine), one endogenous metabolite, one immunology/inflammation-related compound, and one inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase (N4-methylcytidine, a cytosine nucleoside analogue that, like zebularine, has the mechanism of inhibiting DNA methyltransferase). Based on the tumor microenvironment characteristics of ccRCC, five ccRCC-specific compounds were identified, which would give direction of the clinical treatment for ccRCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dongmei Ai
- School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; (Y.W.); (X.C.); (N.T.); (M.G.)
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97
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Casagrande S, Sopetto GB, Bertalot G, Bortolotti R, Racanelli V, Caffo O, Giometto B, Berti A, Veccia A. Immune-Related Adverse Events Due to Cancer Immunotherapy: Immune Mechanisms and Clinical Manifestations. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1440. [PMID: 38611115 PMCID: PMC11011060 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071440] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The landscape of cancer treatment has undergone a significant transformation with the introduction of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs). Patients undergoing these treatments often report prolonged clinical and radiological responses, albeit with a potential risk of developing immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Here, we reviewed and discussed the mechanisms of action of ICIs and their pivotal role in regulating the immune system to enhance the anti-tumor immune response. We scrutinized the intricate pathogenic mechanisms responsible for irAEs, arising from the evasion of self-tolerance checkpoints due to drug-induced immune modulation. We also summarized the main clinical manifestations due to irAEs categorized by organ types, detailing their incidence and associated risk factors. The occurrence of irAEs is more frequent when ICIs are combined; with neurological, cardiovascular, hematological, and rheumatic irAEs more commonly linked to PD1/PD-L1 inhibitors and cutaneous and gastrointestinal irAEs more prevalent with CTLA4 inhibitors. Due to the often-nonspecific signs and symptoms, the diagnosis of irAEs (especially for those rare ones) can be challenging. The differential with primary autoimmune disorders becomes sometimes intricate, given the clinical and pathophysiological similarities. In conclusion, considering the escalating use of ICIs, this area of research necessitates additional clinical studies and practical insights, especially the development of biomarkers for predicting immune toxicities. In addition, there is a need for heightened education for both clinicians and patients to enhance understanding and awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Casagrande
- Unit of Neurology, Rovereto Hospital, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari-APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy; (S.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Giulia Boscato Sopetto
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy; (G.B.S.); (G.B.); (V.R.)
| | - Giovanni Bertalot
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy; (G.B.S.); (G.B.); (V.R.)
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
- Multizonal Unit of Pathology, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Roberto Bortolotti
- Unit of Rheumatology, Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy;
| | - Vito Racanelli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy; (G.B.S.); (G.B.); (V.R.)
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Orazio Caffo
- Unit of Oncology, Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy; (O.C.); (A.V.)
| | - Bruno Giometto
- Unit of Neurology, Rovereto Hospital, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari-APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy; (S.C.); (B.G.)
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Sciences (DIPSCO), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Alvise Berti
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy; (G.B.S.); (G.B.); (V.R.)
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed), University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
- Unit of Rheumatology, Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy;
| | - Antonello Veccia
- Unit of Oncology, Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, 38122 Trento, Italy; (O.C.); (A.V.)
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98
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Si F, Liu X, Tao Y, Zhang Y, Ma F, Hsueh EC, Puram SV, Peng G. Blocking senescence and tolerogenic function of dendritic cells induced by γδ Treg cells enhances tumor-specific immunity for cancer immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008219. [PMID: 38580332 PMCID: PMC11002396 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a key component in maintaining the suppressive tumor microenvironment and immune suppression in different types of cancers. A precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms used by Treg cells for immune suppression is critical for the development of effective strategies for cancer immunotherapy. METHODS Senescence development and tolerogenic functions of dendritic cells (DCs) induced by breast cancer tumor-derived γδ Treg cells were fully characterized using real-time PCR, flow cytometry, western blot, and functional assays. Loss-of-function strategies with pharmacological inhibitor and/or neutralizing antibody were used to identify the potential molecule(s) and pathway(s) involved in DC senescence and dysfunction induced by Treg cells. Impaired tumor antigen HER2-specific recognition and immune response of senescent DCs induced by γδ Treg cells were explored in vitro and in vivo in humanized mouse models. In addition, the DC-based HER2 tumor vaccine immunotherapy in breast cancer models was performed to explore the enhanced antitumor immunity via prevention of DC senescence through blockages of STAT3 and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) signaling. RESULTS We showed that tumor-derived γδ Treg cells promote the development of senescence in DCs with tolerogenic functions in breast cancer. Senescent DCs induced by γδ Treg cells suppress Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation but promote the development of Treg cells. In addition, we demonstrated that PD-L1 and STAT3 signaling pathways are critical and involved in senescence induction in DCs mediated by tumor-derived γδ Treg cells. Importantly, our complementary in vivo studies further demonstrated that blockages of PD-L1 and/or STAT3 signaling can prevent γδ Treg-induced senescence and reverse tolerogenic functions in DCs, resulting in enhanced HER2 tumor-specific immune responses and immunotherapy efficacy in human breast cancer models. CONCLUSIONS These studies not only dissect the suppressive mechanism mediated by tumor-derived γδ Treg cells on DCs in the tumor microenvironment but also provide novel strategies to prevent senescence and dysfunction in DCs and enhance antitumor efficacy mediated by tumor-specific T cells for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Si
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yan Tao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yuanqin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Feiya Ma
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eddy C Hsueh
- Division of General Surgery and Department of Surgery, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sidharth V Puram
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Guangyong Peng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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99
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Chen Y, Liu H, Sun Y. Effect of acute inflammatory reaction induced by biopsy on tumor microenvironment. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:177. [PMID: 38578317 PMCID: PMC10997701 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05704-7] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
When it comes to the diagnosis of solid tumors, biopsy is always the gold standard. However, traumatic and inflammatory stimuli are so closely related to tumor initiation and development that the acute inflammatory response induced by biopsy can give rise to changes in the tumor microenvironment, including recruitment of immunosuppressive cells (M2 macrophages, Treg cells, Tumor-associated neutrophils) and secretion of inflammation-associated cytokines, to create immunosuppressive conditions that enable the increase of circulating tumor cells in the peripheral circulation and promote the metastatic spread of tumors after surgery. In this review, we discuss dynamic changes and inhibitory characteristics of biopsy on tumor microenvironment. By investigating its mechanism of action and summarizing the current therapeutic strategies for biopsy-induced tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment, the future of using biopsy-induced inflammation to improve the therapeutic effects and prognosis of patients is prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Chen
- Department of Stomatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Hualian Liu
- Department of Stomatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Yadong Sun
- Department of General Practice, Unit 94587 of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lianyungang, China
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100
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Ji G, Yang Q, Wang S, Yan X, Ou Q, Gong L, Zhao J, Zhou Y, Tian F, Lei J, Mu X, Wang J, Wang T, Wang X, Sun J, Zhang J, Jia C, Jiang T, Zhao MG, Lu Q. Single-cell profiling of response to neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy in surgically resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Genome Med 2024; 16:49. [PMID: 38566201 PMCID: PMC10985969 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-024-01320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy (NAT) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is challenged by the intricate interplay within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Unveiling the immune landscape of ESCC in the context of NAT could shed light on heterogeneity and optimize therapeutic strategies for patients. METHODS We analyzed single cells from 22 baseline and 24 post-NAT treatment samples of stage II/III ESCC patients to explore the association between the immune landscape and pathological response to neoadjuvant anti-PD-1 combination therapy, including pathological complete response (pCR), major pathological response (MPR), and incomplete pathological response (IPR). RESULTS Single-cell profiling identified 14 major cell subsets of cancer, immune, and stromal cells. Trajectory analysis unveiled an interesting link between cancer cell differentiation and pathological response to NAT. ESCC tumors enriched with less differentiated cancer cells exhibited a potentially favorable pathological response to NAT, while tumors enriched with clusters of more differentiated cancer cells may resist treatment. Deconvolution of transcriptomes in pre-treatment tumors identified gene signatures in response to NAT contributed by specific immune cell populations. Upregulated genes associated with better pathological responses in CD8 + effector T cells primarily involved interferon-gamma (IFNγ) signaling, neutrophil degranulation, and negative regulation of the T cell apoptotic process, whereas downregulated genes were dominated by those in the immune response-activating cell surface receptor signaling pathway. Natural killer cells in pre-treatment tumors from pCR patients showed a similar upregulation of gene expression in response to IFNγ but a downregulation of genes in the neutrophil-mediated immunity pathways. A decreased cellular contexture of regulatory T cells in ESCC TME indicated a potentially favorable pathological response to NAT. Cell-cell communication analysis revealed extensive interactions between CCL5 and its receptor CCR5 in various immune cells of baseline pCR tumors. Immune checkpoint interaction pairs, including CTLA4-CD86, TIGIT-PVR, LGALS9-HAVCR2, and TNFSF4-TNFRSF4, might serve as additional therapeutic targets for ICI therapy in ESCC. CONCLUSIONS This pioneering study unveiled an intriguing association between cancer cell differentiation and pathological response in esophageal cancer patients, revealing distinct subgroups of tumors for which neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy might be effective. We also delineated the immune landscape of ESCC tumors in the context of clinical response to NAT, which provides clinical insights for better understanding how patients respond to the treatment and further identifying novel therapeutic targets for ESCC patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Ji
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Precision Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Song Wang
- Geneseeq Research Institute, Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Qiuxiang Ou
- Geneseeq Research Institute, Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Gong
- Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jinbo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yongan Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Feng Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jie Lei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xiaorong Mu
- Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jianyong Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jipeng Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Chenghui Jia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical College, Xi'an, 710000, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Ming-Gao Zhao
- Precision Pharmacy & Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Qiang Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No. 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China.
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