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Taeb S, Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Rezapoor S, Musa AE, Farhood B, Najafi M. Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Stem Cells Resistance to Radiotherapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 22:18-30. [PMID: 34951575 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666211224154952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a chronic disorder that involves several elements of both the tumor and the host stromal cells. At present, the complex relationship between the various factors presents in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor cells, as well as immune cells located within the TME, is still poorly known. Within the TME, the crosstalk of these factors and immune cells essentially determines how a tumor reacts to the treatment and how the tumor can ultimately be destroyed, remain dormant, or develop and metastasize. Also, in TME, reciprocal crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), extracellular matrix (ECM), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) intensifies the proliferation capacity of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are subpopulation of cells that reside within the tumor bulk and have the capacity to self-renew, differentiate, and repair DNA damage. These characteristics make CSCs develop resistance to a variety of treatments, such as radiotherapy (RT). RT is a frequent and often curative treatment for local cancer which mediates tumor elimination by cytotoxic actions. Also, cytokines and growth factors that are released into TME, have been involved in the activation of tumor radioresistance and the induction of different immune cells, altering local immune responses. In this review, we discuss the pivotal role of TME in resistance of CSCs to RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Taeb
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla, 34956 , Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla 34956, Turkey
| | - Saeed Rezapoor
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Ahmed Eleojo Musa
- Department of Medical Physics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (International Campus), Iran
| | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences., Iraq
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Medical Technology Research Center, Institute of Health Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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52
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Kilmister EJ, Tan ST. The Role of the Renin-Angiotensin System in the Cancer Stem Cell Niche. J Histochem Cytochem 2021; 69:835-847. [PMID: 34165363 PMCID: PMC8647629 DOI: 10.1369/00221554211026295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive metastasis, treatment resistance, and tumor recurrence. CSCs reside within a niche, an anatomically distinct site within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that consists of malignant and non-malignant cells, including immune cells. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), a critical regulator of stem cells and key developmental processes, plays a vital role in the TME. Non-malignant cells within the CSC niche and stem cell signaling pathways such as the Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch pathways influence CSCs. Components of the RAS and cathepsins B and D that constitute bypass loops of the RAS are expressed on CSCs in many cancer types. There is extensive in vitro and in vivo evidence showing that RAS inhibition reduces tumor growth, cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. However, there is inconsistent epidemiological data on the effect of RAS inhibitors on cancer incidence and survival outcomes, attributed to different patient characteristics and methodologies used between studies. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to investigate the precise effects of the RAS on CSCs directly and/or the CSC niche. Targeting the RAS, its bypass loops, and convergent signaling pathways participating in the TME and other key stem cell pathways that regulate CSCs may be a novel approach to cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Swee T. Tan
- Gillies McIndoe Research Institute, Wellington,
New Zealand
- Wellington Regional Plastic, Maxillofacial and
Burns Unit, Hutt Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Surgery, The University of
Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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53
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Jiang X, Liang L, Chen G, Liu C. Modulation of Immune Components on Stem Cell and Dormancy in Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:2826. [PMID: 34831048 PMCID: PMC8616319 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) refer to a certain subpopulation within the tumor entity that is characterized by restricted cellular proliferation and multipotent differentiation potency. The existence of CSCs has been proven to contribute to the heterogeneity of malignancies, accounting for intensified tumorigenesis, treatment resistance, and metastatic spread. Dormancy was proposed as a reversible state of cancer cells that are temporarily arrested in the cell cycle, possessing several hallmarks that facilitate their survival within a devastating niche. This transient period is evoked to enter an actively proliferating state by multiple regulatory alterations, and one of the most significant and complex factors comes from local and systemic inflammatory reactions and immune components. Although CSCs and dormant cancer cells share several similarities, the clear relationship between these two concepts remains unclear. Thus, the detailed mechanism of immune cells interacting with CSCs and dormant cancer cells also warrants elucidation for prevention of cancer relapse and metastasis. In this review, we summarize recent findings and prospective studies on CSCs and cancer dormancy to conclude the relationship between these two concepts. Furthermore, we aim to outline the mechanism of immune components in interfering with CSCs and dormant cancer cells to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention of relapse and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Caigang Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China; (X.J.); (L.L.); (G.C.)
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The Immune Privilege of Cancer Stem Cells: A Key to Understanding Tumor Immune Escape and Therapy Failure. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092361. [PMID: 34572009 PMCID: PMC8469208 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are broadly considered immature, multipotent, tumorigenic cells within the tumor mass, endowed with the ability to self-renew and escape immune control. All these features contribute to place CSCs at the pinnacle of tumor aggressiveness and (immune) therapy resistance. The immune privileged status of CSCs is induced and preserved by various mechanisms that directly affect them (e.g., the downregulation of the major histocompatibility complex class I) and indirectly are induced in the host immune cells (e.g., activation of immune suppressive cells). Therefore, deeper insights into the immuno-biology of CSCs are essential in our pursuit to find new therapeutic opportunities that eradicate cancer (stem) cells. Here, we review and discuss the ability of CSCs to evade the innate and adaptive immune system, as we offer a view of the immunotherapeutic strategies adopted to potentiate and address specific subsets of (engineered) immune cells against CSCs.
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GRIK2 is a target for bladder cancer stem-like cell-targeting immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2021; 71:795-806. [PMID: 34405274 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-021-03025-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that treatment-resistant cancer stem-like cells (CSCs)/cancer-initiating cells (CICs) can be targeted by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). CTLs recognize antigenic peptides derived from tumor-associated antigens; thus, the identification of tumor-associated antigens expressed by CSCs/CICs is essential. Human leucocyte antigen (HLA) ligandome analysis using mass spectrometry enables the analysis of naturally expressed antigenic peptides; however, HLA ligandome analysis requires a large number of cells and is challenging for CSCs/CICs. In this study, we established a novel bladder CSC/CIC model from a bladder cancer cell line (UM-UC-3 cells) using an ALDEFLUOR assay. CSCs/CICs were isolated as aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)-high cells and several ALDHhigh clone cells were established. ALDHhigh clone cells were enriched with CSCs/CICs by sphere formation and tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice. HLA ligandome analysis and cap analysis of gene expression using ALDHhigh clone cells revealed a distinctive antigenic peptide repertoire in bladder CSCs/CICs, and we found that a glutamate receptor, ionotropic, kainite 2 (GRIK2)-derived antigenic peptide (LMYDAVHVV) was specifically expressed by CSCs/CICs. A GRIK2 peptide-specific CTL clone recognized GRIK2-overexpressing UM-UC-3 cells and ALDHhigh clone cells, indicating that GRIK2 peptide can be a novel target for bladder CSC/CIC-targeting immunotherapy.
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Analysis of Several Pathways for Efficient Killing of Prostate Cancer Stem Cells: A Central Role of NF-κB RELA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168901. [PMID: 34445612 PMCID: PMC8396252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a common cause of death worldwide. Here, we isolated cancer stem cells (CSCs) from four adenocarcinomas of the prostate (Gleason scores from 3 + 3 up to 4 + 5). CSCs were characterized by the expression of the stem cell markers TWIST, the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM), the transcription factors SNAI1 (SNAIL) and SNAI2 (SLUG) and cancer markers such as CD44 and prominin-1 (CD133). All investigated CSC populations contained a fraction highly positive for aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) function and displayed robust expressions of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) ligands. Furthermore, we investigated immunotherapeutic approaches but had no success even with the clinically used PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab. In addition, we studied another death-inducing pathway via interferon gamma signaling and detected high-level upregulations of human leukocyte antigen A (HLA-A) and beta 2-microglobulin (B2M) with only moderate killing efficacy. To examine further killing mechanisms in prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs), we analyzed NF-κB signaling. Surprisingly, two patient-specific populations of PCSCs were found: one with canonical NF-κB signaling and another one with blunted NF-κB activation, which can be efficiently killed by tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Thus, culturing of PCSCs and analysis of respective NF-κB induction potency after surgery might be a powerful tool for optimizing patient-specific treatment options, such as the use of TNF-inducing chemotherapeutics and/or NF-κB inhibitors.
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Miyashita M, Shimizu T, Ashihara E, Ukimura O. Strategies to Improve the Antitumor Effect of γδ T Cell Immunotherapy for Clinical Application. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8910. [PMID: 34445615 PMCID: PMC8396358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human γδ T cells show potent cytotoxicity against various types of cancer cells in a major histocompatibility complex unrestricted manner. Phosphoantigens and nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-bis) stimulate γδ T cells via interaction between the γδ T cell receptor (TCR) and butyrophilin subfamily 3 member A1 (BTN3A1) expressed on target cells. γδ T cell immunotherapy is classified as either in vivo or ex vivo according to the method of activation. Immunotherapy with activated γδ T cells is well tolerated; however, the clinical benefits are unsatisfactory. Therefore, the antitumor effects need to be increased. Administration of γδ T cells into local cavities might improve antitumor effects by increasing the effector-to-target cell ratio. Some anticancer and molecularly targeted agents increase the cytotoxicity of γδ T cells via mechanisms involving natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D)-mediated recognition of target cells. Both the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells exert immunosuppressive effects via mechanisms that include inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules. Therefore, co-immunotherapy with γδ T cells plus immune checkpoint inhibitors is a strategy that may improve cytotoxicity. The use of a bispecific antibody and chimeric antigen receptor might be effective to overcome current therapeutic limitations. Such strategies should be tested in a clinical research setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Miyashita
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
- Department of Urology, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital, Kyoto 602-8026, Japan
| | - Teruki Shimizu
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
| | - Eishi Ashihara
- Department of Clinical and Translational Physiology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan;
| | - Osamu Ukimura
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
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The 3.0 Cell Communication: New Insights in the Usefulness of Tunneling Nanotubes for Glioblastoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164001. [PMID: 34439156 PMCID: PMC8392307 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Communication between cells helps tumors acquire resistance to chemotherapy and makes the struggle against cancer more challenging. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long channels able to connect both nearby and distant cells, contributing to a more malignant phenotype. This finding might be useful in designing novel strategies of drug delivery exploiting these systems of connection. This would be particularly important to reach tumor niches, where glioblastoma stem cells proliferate and provoke immune escape, thereby increasing metastatic potential and tumor recurrence a few months after surgical resection of the primary mass. Along with the direct inhibition of TNT formation, TNT analysis, and targeting strategies might be useful in providing innovative tools for the treatment of this tumor. Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is a particularly challenging brain tumor characterized by a heterogeneous, complex, and multicellular microenvironment, which represents a strategic network for treatment escape. Furthermore, the presence of GBM stem cells (GSCs) seems to contribute to GBM recurrence after surgery, and chemo- and/or radiotherapy. In this context, intercellular communication modalities play key roles in driving GBM therapy resistance. The presence of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), long membranous open-ended channels connecting distant cells, has been observed in several types of cancer, where they emerge to steer a more malignant phenotype. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about the formation of TNTs between different cellular types in the GBM microenvironment and their potential role in tumor progression and recurrence. Particularly, we highlight two prospective strategies targeting TNTs as possible therapeutics: (i) the inhibition of TNT formation and (ii) a boost in drug delivery between cells through these channels. The latter may require future studies to design drug delivery systems that are exchangeable through TNTs, thus allowing for access to distant tumor niches that are involved in tumor immune escape, maintenance of GSC plasticity, and increases in metastatic potential.
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59
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Hazini A, Fisher K, Seymour L. Deregulation of HLA-I in cancer and its central importance for immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e002899. [PMID: 34353849 PMCID: PMC8344275 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well accepted that many tumors undergo a process of clonal selection which means that tumor antigens arising at various stages of tumor progression are likely to be represented in just a subset of tumor cells. This process is thought to be driven by constant immunosurveillance which applies selective pressure by eliminating tumor cells expressing antigens that are recognized by T cells. It is becoming increasingly clear that the same selective pressure may also select for tumor cells that evade immune detection by acquiring deficiencies in their human leucocyte antigen (HLA) presentation pathways, allowing important tumor antigens to persist within cells undetected by the immune system. Deficiencies in antigen presentation pathway can arise by a variety of mechanisms, including genetic and epigenetic changes, and functional antigen presentation is a hard phenomenon to assess using our standard analytical techniques. Nevertheless, it is likely to have profound clinical significance and could well define whether an individual patient will respond to a particular type of therapy or not. In this review we consider the mechanisms by which HLA function may be lost in clinical disease, we assess the implications for current immunotherapy approaches using checkpoint inhibitors and examine the prognostic impact of HLA loss demonstrated in clinical trials so far. Finally, we propose strategies that might be explored for possible patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Hazini
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Kerry Fisher
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Len Seymour
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
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60
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Abstract
Cellular heterogeneity and an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment are independent yet synergistic drivers of tumour progression and underlie therapeutic resistance. Recent studies have highlighted the complex interaction between these cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic mechanisms. The reciprocal communication between cancer stem cells (CSCs) and infiltrating immune cell populations in the tumour microenvironment is a paradigm for these interactions. In this Perspective, we discuss the signalling programmes that simultaneously induce CSCs and reprogramme the immune response to facilitate tumour immune evasion, metastasis and recurrence. We further highlight biological factors that can impact the nature of CSC-immune cell communication. Finally, we discuss targeting opportunities for simultaneous regulation of the CSC niche and immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defne Bayik
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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61
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Hot or cold: Bioengineering immune contextures into in vitro patient-derived tumor models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 175:113791. [PMID: 33965462 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have proven to be tremendously effective for a subset of cancer patients. However, it is difficult to predict the response of individual patients and efforts are now directed at understanding the mechanisms of ICI resistance. Current models of patient tumors poorly recapitulate the immune contexture, which describe immune parameters that are associated with patient survival. In this Review, we discuss parameters that influence the induction of different immune contextures found within tumors and how engineering strategies may be leveraged to recapitulate these contextures to develop the next generation of immune-competent patient-derived in vitro models.
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Arabzadeh A, Mortezazadeh T, Aryafar T, Gharepapagh E, Majdaeen M, Farhood B. Therapeutic potentials of resveratrol in combination with radiotherapy and chemotherapy during glioblastoma treatment: a mechanistic review. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:391. [PMID: 34289841 PMCID: PMC8296583 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02099-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma, WHO grade IV astrocytoma, is the most aggressive type of brain tumors. These cancerous cells have a rapid growth rate, tendency to penetrate vital brain structures, molecular heterogeneity, etc. and this cancer is associated with a poor prognosis and low survival rate. Due to the resistance of glioblastoma cells to conventional therapeutic modalities (such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy) as well as the adverse effects of these modalities, the researchers have attempted to discover an appropriate alternative or adjuvant treatment for glioblastoma. Resveratrol, as an herbal and natural polyphenolic compound, has anti-tumoral property and has shown to be effective in GBM treatment. Resveratrol exerts its anti-tumoral effect through various mechanisms such as regulation of cell cycle progression and cell proliferation, autophagy, oxidant system, apoptosis pathways, and so on. Resveratrol in combination with radiation therapy and chemotherapy has also been used. In the present study, we summarized the current findings on therapeutic potentials of resveratrol in glioblastoma radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- AmirAhmad Arabzadeh
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Tohid Mortezazadeh
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Aryafar
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Gharepapagh
- Medical Radiation Sciences Research Team , Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrsa Majdaeen
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Razi Hospital, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
| | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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Mokhtari RB, Sambi M, Qorri B, Baluch N, Ashayeri N, Kumar S, Cheng HLM, Yeger H, Das B, Szewczuk MR. The Next-Generation of Combination Cancer Immunotherapy: Epigenetic Immunomodulators Transmogrify Immune Training to Enhance Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3596. [PMID: 34298809 PMCID: PMC8305317 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy harnesses the immune system by targeting tumor cells that express antigens recognized by immune system cells, thus leading to tumor rejection. These tumor-associated antigens include tumor-specific shared antigens, differentiation antigens, protein products of mutated genes and rearrangements unique to tumor cells, overexpressed tissue-specific antigens, and exogenous viral proteins. However, the development of effective therapeutic approaches has proven difficult, mainly because these tumor antigens are shielded, and cells primarily express self-derived antigens. Despite innovative and notable advances in immunotherapy, challenges associated with variable patient response rates and efficacy on select tumors minimize the overall effectiveness of immunotherapy. Variations observed in response rates to immunotherapy are due to multiple factors, including adaptative resistance, competency, and a diversity of individual immune systems, including cancer stem cells in the tumor microenvironment, composition of the gut microbiota, and broad limitations of current immunotherapeutic approaches. New approaches are positioned to improve the immune response and increase the efficacy of immunotherapies, highlighting the challenges that the current global COVID-19 pandemic places on the present state of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Bayat Mokhtari
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.S.); (B.Q.)
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Thoreau Laboratory for Global Health, M2D2, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA 01852, USA;
| | - Manpreet Sambi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.S.); (B.Q.)
| | - Bessi Qorri
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.S.); (B.Q.)
| | - Narges Baluch
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada;
| | - Neda Ashayeri
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Ali-Asghar Children Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran 1449614535, Iran;
| | - Sushil Kumar
- QPS, Holdings LLC, Pencader Corporate Center, 110 Executive Drive, Newark, DE 19702, USA;
| | - Hai-Ling Margaret Cheng
- The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada;
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Herman Yeger
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada;
| | - Bikul Das
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Thoreau Laboratory for Global Health, M2D2, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA 01852, USA;
- KaviKrishna Laboratory, Department of Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, GBP, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati 781039, India
| | - Myron R. Szewczuk
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (M.S.); (B.Q.)
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Transcending toward Advanced 3D-Cell Culture Modalities: A Review about an Emerging Paradigm in Translational Oncology. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071657. [PMID: 34359827 PMCID: PMC8304089 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disorder characterized by an uncontrollable overgrowth and a fast-moving spread of cells from a localized tissue to multiple organs of the body, reaching a metastatic state. Throughout years, complexity of cancer progression and invasion, high prevalence and incidence, as well as the high rise in treatment failure cases leading to a poor patient prognosis accounted for continuous experimental investigations on animals and cellular models, mainly with 2D- and 3D-cell culture. Nowadays, these research models are considered a main asset to reflect the physiological events in many cancer types in terms of cellular characteristics and features, replication and metastatic mechanisms, metabolic pathways, biomarkers expression, and chemotherapeutic agent resistance. In practice, based on research perspective and hypothesis, scientists aim to choose the best model to approach their understanding and to prove their hypothesis. Recently, 3D-cell models are seen to be highly incorporated as a crucial tool for reflecting the true cancer cell microenvironment in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics studies, in addition to the intensity of anticancer drug response in pharmacogenomics trials. Hence, in this review, we shed light on the unique characteristics of 3D cells favoring its promising usage through a comparative approach with other research models, specifically 2D-cell culture. Plus, we will discuss the importance of 3D models as a direct reflector of the intrinsic cancer cell environment with the newest multiple methods and types available for 3D-cells implementation.
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65
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Dymova MA, Kuligina EV, Richter VA. Molecular Mechanisms of Drug Resistance in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6385. [PMID: 34203727 PMCID: PMC8232134 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and fatal primary brain tumor, is highly resistant to conventional radiation and chemotherapy, and is not amenable to effective surgical resection. The present review summarizes recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic resistance of GBM to already known drugs, the molecular characteristics of glioblastoma cells, and the barriers in the brain that underlie drug resistance. We also discuss the progress that has been made in the development of new targeted drugs for glioblastoma, as well as advances in drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya A. Dymova
- The Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (V.A.R.)
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Tsuchiya H, Shiota G. Immune evasion by cancer stem cells. Regen Ther 2021; 17:20-33. [PMID: 33778133 PMCID: PMC7966825 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor immunity represents a new avenue for cancer therapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have successfully improved outcomes in several tumor types. In addition, currently, immune cell-based therapy is also attracting significant attention. However, the clinical efficacy of these treatments requires further improvement. The mechanisms through which cancer cells escape the immune response must be identified and clarified. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a central role in multiple aspects of malignant tumors. CSCs can initiate tumors in partially immunocompromised mice, whereas non-CSCs fail to form tumors, suggesting that tumor initiation is a definitive function of CSCs. However, the fact that non-CSCs also initiate tumors in more highly immunocompromised mice suggests that the immune evasion property may be a more fundamental feature of CSCs rather than a tumor-initiating property. In this review, we summarize studies that have elucidated how CSCs evade tumor immunity and create an immunosuppressive milieu with a focus on CSC-specific characteristics and functions. These profound mechanisms provide important clues for the development of novel tumor immunotherapies.
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Key Words
- ADCC, antibody-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity
- ALDH, alcohol dehydrogenase
- AML, acute myeloid leukemia
- ARID3B, AT-rich interaction domain-containing protein 3B
- CCR7, C–C motif chemokine receptor 7
- CIK, cytokine-induced killer cell
- CMV, cytomegalovirus
- CSC, cancer stem cell
- CTL, cytotoxic T lymphocytes
- CTLA-4, cytotoxic T-cell-associated antigen-4
- Cancer stem cells
- DC, dendritic cell
- DNMT, DNA methyltransferase
- EMT, epithelial–mesenchymal transition
- ETO, fat mass and obesity associated protein
- EV, extracellular vesicle
- HNSCC, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
- Immune checkpoints
- Immune evasion
- KDM4, lysine-specific demethylase 4C
- KIR, killer immunoglobulin-like receptor
- LAG3, lymphocyte activation gene 3
- LILR, leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor
- LMP, low molecular weight protein
- LOX, lysyl oxidase
- MDSC, myeloid-derived suppressor cell
- MHC, major histocompatibility complex
- MIC, MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence
- NGF, nerve growth factor
- NK cells
- NK, natural killer
- NOD, nonobese diabetic
- NSG, NOD/SCID IL-2 receptor gamma chain null
- OCT4, octamer-binding transcription factor 4
- PD-1, programmed death receptor-1
- PD-L1/2, ligands 1/2
- PI9, protease inhibitor 9
- PSME3, proteasome activator subunit 3
- SCID, severe combined immunodeficient
- SOX2, sex determining region Y-box 2
- T cells
- TAM, tumor-associated macrophage
- TAP, transporter associated with antigen processing
- TCR, T cell receptor
- Treg, regulatory T cell
- ULBP, UL16 binding protein
- uPAR, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tsuchiya
- Division of Medical Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Genomic Medicine and Regenerative Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, 683-8503, Japan
| | - Goshi Shiota
- Division of Medical Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Genomic Medicine and Regenerative Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, 683-8503, Japan
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Khalaf K, Hana D, Chou JTT, Singh C, Mackiewicz A, Kaczmarek M. Aspects of the Tumor Microenvironment Involved in Immune Resistance and Drug Resistance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:656364. [PMID: 34122412 PMCID: PMC8190405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.656364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and ever-changing "rogue organ" composed of its own blood supply, lymphatic and nervous systems, stroma, immune cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). These complex components, utilizing both benign and malignant cells, nurture the harsh, immunosuppressive and nutrient-deficient environment necessary for tumor cell growth, proliferation and phenotypic flexibility and variation. An important aspect of the TME is cellular crosstalk and cell-to-ECM communication. This interaction induces the release of soluble factors responsible for immune evasion and ECM remodeling, which further contribute to therapy resistance. Other aspects are the presence of exosomes contributed by both malignant and benign cells, circulating deregulated microRNAs and TME-specific metabolic patterns which further potentiate the progression and/or resistance to therapy. In addition to biochemical signaling, specific TME characteristics such as the hypoxic environment, metabolic derangements, and abnormal mechanical forces have been implicated in the development of treatment resistance. In this review, we will provide an overview of tumor microenvironmental composition, structure, and features that influence immune suppression and contribute to treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Khalaf
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Doris Hana
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jadzia Tin-Tsen Chou
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Chandpreet Singh
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mackiewicz
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kaczmarek
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Xuan Y, Sheng Y, Zhang D, Zhang K, Zhang Z, Ping Y, Wang S, Shi X, Lian J, Liu K, Zhang Y, Li F. Targeting CD276 by CAR-T cells induces regression of esophagus squamous cell carcinoma in xenograft mouse models. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101138. [PMID: 34052626 PMCID: PMC8176370 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CD276 is homogeneously overexpressed in ESCC and EAC. CD276-directed CAR-T cells demonstrate remarkable anti-tumor effects in ESCC PDX model. CD276-targeting CAR-T cells are successfully generated with patients T cells and show potent cytotoxicity against autologous tumor cells.
Esophageal cancer, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), has a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells represent a potential ESCC treatment. In this study, we examined CD276 expression in healthy and esophageal tumor tissues and explored the tumoricidal potential of CD276-targeting CAR-T cells in ESCC. CD276 was strongly and homogenously expressed in ESCC and EAC tumor lesions but mildly in healthy tissues, representing a good target for CAR-T cell therapy. We generated CD276-directed CAR-T cells with a humanized antigen-recognizing domain and CD28 or 4–1BB co-stimulation. CD276-specific CAR-T cells efficiently killed ESCC tumor cells in an antigen-dependent manner both in vitro and in vivo. In patient-derived xenograft models, CAR-T cells induced tumor regression and extended mouse survival. In addition, CAR-T cells generated from patient T cells demonstrated potent cytotoxicity against autologous tumor cells. Our study indicates that CD276 is an attractive target for ESCC therapy, and CD276-targeting CAR-T cells are worth testing in ESCC clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Xuan
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yuqiao Sheng
- Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Daiqun Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yu Ping
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shumin Wang
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaojuan Shi
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jingyao Lian
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Biotherapy Center, Cancer Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Schwerdtfeger M, Desiderio V, Kobold S, Regad T, Zappavigna S, Caraglia M. Long non-coding RNAs in cancer stem cells. Transl Oncol 2021; 14:101134. [PMID: 34051619 PMCID: PMC8176362 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non coding RNAs are involved in the regulation of multiple cellular processes. Cancer stemness and escape from immunological anti-cancer mechanisms are important mechanisms of resistance to anti-cancer agents and are pivotal in controlling cancer development and metastases. Long non coding RNAs have deep effects on the immune-modulation and on the control of cancer stem cells. Several pathways involved in immunological escape and cancer stemness are modulated by long non coding RNAs. Targeting long non coding RNAs is a potential new strategy to control tumor development and metastases.
In recent years, it has been evidenced that the human transcriptome includes several types of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that are mainly involved in the regulation of different cellular processes. Among ncRNAs, long-non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are defined as longer than 200 nucleotides and have been shown to be involved in several physiological and pathological events, including immune system regulation and cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a population of cancer cells that possess characteristics, such as resistance to standard treatments, cancer initiation, ability to undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and the ability to invade, spread, and generate metastases. The cancer microenvironment, together with genetic and epigenetic factors, is fundamental for CSC maintenance and tumor growth and progression. Unsurprisingly, lncRNAs have been involved in both CSC biology and cancer progression, prognosis and recurrence. Here we review the most recent literature on IncRNAs involvement in CSC biology and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Schwerdtfeger
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU Munich, Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - Vincenzo Desiderio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sebastian Kobold
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU Munich, Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL); German Center for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tarik Regad
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Zappavigna
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
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Ma T, Hu C, Lal B, Zhou W, Ma Y, Ying M, Prinos P, Quiñones-Hinojosa A, Lim M, Laterra J, Li Y. Reprogramming Transcription Factors Oct4 and Sox2 Induce a BRD-Dependent Immunosuppressive Transcriptome in GBM-Propagating Cells. Cancer Res 2021; 81:2457-2469. [PMID: 33574085 PMCID: PMC8137560 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A subset of stem-like cells in glioblastoma (GBM; GSC) underlies tumor propagation, therapeutic resistance, and tumor recurrence. Immune evasion is critical for GSCs to carry out these functions. However, the molecular mechanisms employed by GSCs to escape antitumor immunity remain largely unknown. The reprogramming transcription factors Oct4 and Sox2 function as core multipotency factors and play an essential role in the formation and maintenance of GSCs, but the roles of these transcription factors in GSC immune escape have not been well explored. Here we examine how Oct4/Sox2 coexpression contributes to the immunosuppressive phenotype of GSCs. Combined transcription profiling and functional studies of Oct4/Sox2 coexpressing GSCs and differentiated GBM cells demonstrated that Oct4 and Sox2 cooperatively induce an immunosuppressive transcriptome consisting of multiple immunosuppressive checkpoints (i.e., PD-L1, CD70, A2aR, TDO) and dysregulation of cytokines and chemokines that are associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Mechanistically, induction and function of BRD/H3k27Ac-dependent immunosuppressive genes played a role in the immunosuppressive phenotype of GSCs. Pan-BET bromodomain inhibitors (e.g., JQ1) and shBRD4 constructs significantly inhibited the immunosuppressive transcriptome and immunosuppressive biological responses induced by Oct4/Sox2. Our findings identify targetable mechanisms by which tumor-propagating GSCs contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment in GBM. SIGNIFICANCE: This report identifies mechanisms by which the reprogramming transcription factors Oct4 and Sox2 function to drive the immunomodulatory transcriptome of GSCs and contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengjiao Ma
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital and Collaborative Innovation Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengchen Hu
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Bachchu Lal
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Weiqiang Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yongxin Ma
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital and Collaborative Innovation Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyao Ying
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Panagiotis Prinos
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa
- Department of Neurosurgery and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael Lim
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - John Laterra
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yunqing Li
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Mitchell K, Troike K, Silver DJ, Lathia JD. The evolution of the cancer stem cell state in glioblastoma: emerging insights into the next generation of functional interactions. Neuro Oncol 2021; 23:199-213. [PMID: 33173943 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noaa259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular heterogeneity is a hallmark of advanced cancers and has been ascribed in part to a population of self-renewing, therapeutically resistant cancer stem cells (CSCs). Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, has served as a platform for the study of CSCs. In addition to illustrating the complexities of CSC biology, these investigations have led to a deeper understanding of GBM pathogenesis, revealed novel therapeutic targets, and driven innovation towards the development of next-generation therapies. While there continues to be an expansion in our knowledge of how CSCs contribute to GBM progression, opportunities have emerged to revisit this conceptual framework. In this review, we will summarize the current state of CSCs in GBM using key concepts of evolution as a paradigm (variation, inheritance, selection, and time) to describe how the CSC state is subject to alterations of cell intrinsic and extrinsic interactions that shape their evolutionarily trajectory. We identify emerging areas for future consideration, including appreciating CSCs as a cell state that is subject to plasticity, as opposed to a discrete population. These future considerations will not only have an impact on our understanding of this ever-expanding field but will also provide an opportunity to inform future therapies to effectively treat this complex and devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Mitchell
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Katie Troike
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case, Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Daniel J Silver
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Justin D Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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Wang Z, Wang Y, Yang T, Xing H, Wang Y, Gao L, Guo X, Xing B, Wang Y, Ma W. Machine learning revealed stemness features and a novel stemness-based classification with appealing implications in discriminating the prognosis, immunotherapy and temozolomide responses of 906 glioblastoma patients. Brief Bioinform 2021; 22:6220175. [PMID: 33839757 PMCID: PMC8425448 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant and lethal intracranial tumor, with extremely limited treatment options. Immunotherapy has been widely studied in GBM, but none can significantly prolong the overall survival (OS) of patients without selection. Considering that GBM cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a non-negligible role in tumorigenesis and chemoradiotherapy resistance, we proposed a novel stemness-based classification of GBM and screened out certain population more responsive to immunotherapy. The one-class logistic regression algorithm was used to calculate the stemness index (mRNAsi) of 518 GBM patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database based on transcriptomics of GBM and pluripotent stem cells. Based on their stemness signature, GBM patients were divided into two subtypes via consensus clustering, and patients in Stemness Subtype I presented significantly better OS but poorer progression-free survival than Stemness Subtype II. Genomic variations revealed patients in Stemness Subtype I had higher somatic mutation loads and copy number alteration burdens. Additionally, two stemness subtypes had distinct tumor immune microenvironment patterns. Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion and subclass mapping analysis further demonstrated patients in Stemness Subtype I were more likely to respond to immunotherapy, especially anti-PD1 treatment. The pRRophetic algorithm also indicated patients in Stemness Subtype I were more resistant to temozolomide therapy. Finally, multiple machine learning algorithms were used to develop a 7-gene Stemness Subtype Predictor, which were further validated in two external independent GBM cohorts. This novel stemness-based classification could provide a promising prognostic predictor for GBM and may guide physicians in selecting potential responders for preferential use of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yaning Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Tianrui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hao Xing
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuekun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lu Gao
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiaopeng Guo
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bing Xing
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wenbin Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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Cancer Stem Cells Are Possible Key Players in Regulating Anti-Tumor Immune Responses: The Role of Immunomodulating Molecules and MicroRNAs. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071674. [PMID: 33918136 PMCID: PMC8037840 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review provides a critical overview of the state of the art of the characterization of the immunological profile of a rare component of the tumors, denominated cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer initiating cells (CICs). These cells are endowed with the ability to form and propagate tumors and resistance to therapies, including the most innovative approaches. These investigations contribute to understanding the mechanisms regulating the interaction of CSCs/CICs with the immune system and identifying novel therapeutic approaches to render these cells visible and susceptible to immune responses. Abstract Cancer cells endowed with stemness properties and representing a rare population of cells within malignant lesions have been isolated from tumors with different histological origins. These cells, denominated as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer initiating cells (CICs), are responsible for tumor initiation, progression and resistance to therapies, including immunotherapy. The dynamic crosstalk of CSCs/CICs with the tumor microenvironment orchestrates their fate and plasticity as well as their immunogenicity. CSCs/CICs, as observed in multiple studies, display either the aberrant expression of immunomodulatory molecules or suboptimal levels of molecules involved in antigen processing and presentation, leading to immune evasion. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) that can regulate either stemness properties or their immunological profile, with in some cases dual functions, can provide insights into these mechanisms and possible interventions to develop novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs/CICs and reverting their immunogenicity. In this review, we provide an overview of the immunoregulatory features of CSCs/CICs including miRNA profiles involved in the regulation of the interplay between stemness and immunological properties.
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Tomei S, Volontè A, Ravindran S, Mazzoleni S, Wang E, Galli R, Maccalli C. MicroRNA Expression Profile Distinguishes Glioblastoma Stem Cells from Differentiated Tumor Cells. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11040264. [PMID: 33916317 PMCID: PMC8066769 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11040264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) represents the most common and aggressive tumor of the brain. Despite the fact that several studies have recently addressed the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, its etiology and pathogenesis are still poorly understood. GBM displays poor prognosis and its resistance to common therapeutic approaches makes it a highly recurrent tumor. Several studies have identified a subpopulation of tumor cells, known as GBM cancer stem cells (CSCs) characterized by the ability of self-renewal, tumor initiation and propagation. GBM CSCs have been shown to survive GBM chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thus, targeting CSCs represents a promising approach to treat GBM. Recent evidence has shown that GBM is characterized by a dysregulated expression of microRNA (miRNAs). In this study we have investigated the difference between human GBM CSCs and their paired autologous differentiated tumor cells. Array-based profiling and quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR) were performed to identify miRNAs differentially expressed in CSCs. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data were also interrogated, and functional interpretation analysis was performed. We have identified 14 miRNAs significantly differentially expressed in GBM CSCs (p < 0.005). MiR-21 and miR-95 were among the most significantly deregulated miRNAs, and their expression was also associated to patient survival. We believe that the data provided here carry important implications for future studies aiming at elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tomei
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha PO26999, Qatar; (S.R.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +974-4003-7681
| | - Andrea Volontè
- Unit of Immuno-Biotherapy of Melanoma and Solid Tumors, Division of Molecular Oncology, San Raffaele Foundation Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Shilpa Ravindran
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha PO26999, Qatar; (S.R.); (C.M.)
| | - Stefania Mazzoleni
- Neural Stem Cell Biology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Ena Wang
- Infectious Disease and Immunogenetics Section (IDIS), Department of Transfusion Medicine, Clinical Center, and Center for Human Immunology (CHI) National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Rossella Galli
- Neural Stem Cell Biology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Cristina Maccalli
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha PO26999, Qatar; (S.R.); (C.M.)
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Alves ALV, Gomes INF, Carloni AC, Rosa MN, da Silva LS, Evangelista AF, Reis RM, Silva VAO. Role of glioblastoma stem cells in cancer therapeutic resistance: a perspective on antineoplastic agents from natural sources and chemical derivatives. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:206. [PMID: 33762015 PMCID: PMC7992331 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the highest-grade form of glioma, as well as one of the most aggressive types of cancer, exhibiting rapid cellular growth and highly invasive behavior. Despite significant advances in diagnosis and therapy in recent decades, the outcomes for high-grade gliomas (WHO grades III-IV) remain unfavorable, with a median overall survival time of 15–18 months. The concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has emerged and provided new insight into GBM resistance and management. CSCs can self-renew and initiate tumor growth and are also responsible for tumor cell heterogeneity and the induction of systemic immunosuppression. The idea that GBM resistance could be dependent on innate differences in the sensitivity of clonogenic glial stem cells (GSCs) to chemotherapeutic drugs/radiation prompted the scientific community to rethink the understanding of GBM growth and therapies directed at eliminating these cells or modulating their stemness. This review aims to describe major intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that mediate chemoradioresistant GSCs and therapies based on antineoplastic agents from natural sources, derivatives, and synthetics used alone or in synergistic combination with conventional treatment. We will also address ongoing clinical trials focused on these promising targets. Although the development of effective therapy for GBM remains a major challenge in molecular oncology, GSC knowledge can offer new directions for a promising future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Laura V Alves
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Izabela N F Gomes
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana C Carloni
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcela N Rosa
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane S da Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriane F Evangelista
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Manuel Reis
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909, Braga, Portugal
| | - Viviane Aline O Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.
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76
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Witte KE, Hertel O, Windmöller BA, Helweg LP, Höving AL, Knabbe C, Busche T, Greiner JFW, Kalinowski J, Noll T, Mertzlufft F, Beshay M, Pfitzenmaier J, Kaltschmidt B, Kaltschmidt C, Banz-Jansen C, Simon M. Nanopore Sequencing Reveals Global Transcriptome Signatures of Mitochondrial and Ribosomal Gene Expressions in Various Human Cancer Stem-like Cell Populations. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051136. [PMID: 33800955 PMCID: PMC7962028 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is the leading cause of death in the industrialized world. In particular, so-called cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in disease progression, as they are known to contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, CSCs are heavily investigated in a broad range of cancers. Nevertheless, global transcriptomic profiling of CSC populations derived from different tumor types is rare. We established three CSC populations from tumors in the uterus, brain, lung, and prostate and assessed their global transcriptomes using nanopore full-length cDNA sequencing, a new technique to assess insights into global gene profile. We observed common expression in all CSCs for distinct genes encoding proteins for organelles, such as ribosomes, mitochondria, and proteasomes. Additionally, we detected high expressions of inflammation- and immunity-related genes. Conclusively, we observed high similarities between all CSCs independent of their tumor of origin, which may build the basis for identifying novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are crucial mediators of tumor growth, metastasis, therapy resistance, and recurrence in a broad variety of human cancers. Although their biology is increasingly investigated within the distinct types of cancer, direct comparisons of CSCs from different tumor types allowing comprehensive mechanistic insights are rarely assessed. In the present study, we isolated CSCs from endometrioid carcinomas, glioblastoma multiforme as well as adenocarcinomas of lung and prostate and assessed their global transcriptomes using full-length cDNA nanopore sequencing. Despite the expression of common CSC markers, principal component analysis showed a distinct separation of the CSC populations into three clusters independent of the specific type of tumor. However, GO-term and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed upregulated genes related to ribosomal biosynthesis, the mitochondrion, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolytic pathways, as well as the proteasome, suggesting a great extent of metabolic flexibility in CSCs. Interestingly, the GO term “NF-kB binding” was likewise found to be elevated in all investigated CSC populations. In summary, we here provide evidence for high global transcriptional similarities between CSCs from various tumors, which particularly share upregulated gene expression associated with mitochondrial and ribosomal activity. Our findings may build the basis for identifying novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaya E. Witte
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-521-106-5629
| | - Oliver Hertel
- Department of Cell Culture Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (O.H.); (T.N.)
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Beatrice A. Windmöller
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Laureen P. Helweg
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna L. Höving
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Heart and Diabetes Centre NRW, Institute for Laboratory and Transfusion Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Cornelius Knabbe
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Heart and Diabetes Centre NRW, Institute for Laboratory and Transfusion Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Tobias Busche
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Johannes F. W. Greiner
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Jörn Kalinowski
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Thomas Noll
- Department of Cell Culture Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (O.H.); (T.N.)
- Center for Biotechnology-CeBiTec, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 27, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (T.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Fritz Mertzlufft
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Scientific Director of the Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Morris Beshay
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department for Thoracic Surgery and Pneumology, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jesco Pfitzenmaier
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Urology and Center for Computer-Assisted and Robotic Urology, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christian Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (B.A.W.); (L.P.H.); (A.L.H.); (J.F.W.G.); (B.K.); (C.K.)
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
| | - Constanze Banz-Jansen
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Perinatal Center, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Matthias Simon
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany; (C.K.); (F.M.); (M.B.); (J.P.); (C.B.-J.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurosurgery and Epilepsy Surgery, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33699 Bielefeld, Germany
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Donini C, Rotolo R, Proment A, Aglietta M, Sangiolo D, Leuci V. Cellular Immunotherapy Targeting Cancer Stem Cells: Preclinical Evidence and Clinical Perspective. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030543. [PMID: 33806296 PMCID: PMC8001974 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The term “cancer stem cells” (CSCs) commonly refers to a subset of tumor cells endowed with stemness features, potentially involved in chemo-resistance and disease relapses. CSCs may present peculiar immunogenic features influencing their homeostasis within the tumor microenvironment. The susceptibility of CSCs to recognition and targeting by the immune system is a relevant issue and matter of investigation, especially considering the multiple emerging immunotherapy strategies. Adoptive cellular immunotherapies, especially those strategies encompassing the genetic redirection with chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), hold relevant promise in several tumor settings and might in theory provide opportunities for selective elimination of CSC subsets. Initial dedicated preclinical studies are supporting the potential targeting of CSCs by cellular immunotherapies, indirect evidence from clinical studies may be derived and new studies are ongoing. Here we review the main issues related to the putative immunogenicity of CSCs, focusing on and highlighting the existing evidence and opportunities for cellular immunotherapy approaches with T and non-T antitumor lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Donini
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.P.); (M.A.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO–IRCCS, Str. Prov. 142, km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy; (R.R.); (V.L.)
| | - Ramona Rotolo
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO–IRCCS, Str. Prov. 142, km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy; (R.R.); (V.L.)
| | - Alessia Proment
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.P.); (M.A.)
| | - Massimo Aglietta
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.P.); (M.A.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO–IRCCS, Str. Prov. 142, km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy; (R.R.); (V.L.)
| | - Dario Sangiolo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.P.); (M.A.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO–IRCCS, Str. Prov. 142, km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy; (R.R.); (V.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-993-3503; Fax: +39-011-993-3522
| | - Valeria Leuci
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO–IRCCS, Str. Prov. 142, km 3,95, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy; (R.R.); (V.L.)
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Piper K, DePledge L, Karsy M, Cobbs C. Glioma Stem Cells as Immunotherapeutic Targets: Advancements and Challenges. Front Oncol 2021; 11:615704. [PMID: 33718170 PMCID: PMC7945033 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.615704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common and lethal primary brain malignancy. Despite major investments in research into glioblastoma biology and drug development, treatment remains limited and survival has not substantially improved beyond 1-2 years. Cancer stem cells (CSC) or glioma stem cells (GSC) refer to a population of tumor originating cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation. While controversial and challenging to study, evidence suggests that GCSs may result in glioblastoma tumor recurrence and resistance to treatment. Multiple treatment strategies have been suggested at targeting GCSs, including immunotherapy, posttranscriptional regulation, modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and epigenetic modulation. In this review, we discuss recent advances in glioblastoma treatment specifically focused on targeting of GCSs as well as their potential integration into current clinical pathways and trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keenan Piper
- Ben & Catherine Ivy Center for Advanced Brain Tumor Treatment, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, WA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lisa DePledge
- Ben & Catherine Ivy Center for Advanced Brain Tumor Treatment, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, WA, United States.,University of Washington School of Medicine, Spokane, WA, United States
| | - Michael Karsy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Charles Cobbs
- Ben & Catherine Ivy Center for Advanced Brain Tumor Treatment, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
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79
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Abstract
Only a small fraction of the tumor cell population, glioma-initiating cells (GICs) help glioblastoma propagate, invade, evade immune recognition, repair DNA in response to radiation more efficiently, remodel the microenvironment for optimal growth, and actively pump out chemotherapies. Recent data hint that efforts toward GIC characterization and quantification can help predict patient outcomes, and yet the different subpopulations of GICs remain incompletely understood. A better understanding of GIC subtypes and functions proves critical for engineering targeted therapies. Challenges for doing so are discussed, and dopamine receptor antagonists are introduced as new means to enhance the efficacy of the current standard-of-care against GICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Muftuoglu
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 300 Stein Plaza Driveway, Suite 420, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1714, USA
| | - Frank Pajonk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1714, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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80
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Shukla A, Cloutier M, Appiya Santharam M, Ramanathan S, Ilangumaran S. The MHC Class-I Transactivator NLRC5: Implications to Cancer Immunology and Potential Applications to Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041964. [PMID: 33671123 PMCID: PMC7922096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system constantly monitors the emergence of cancerous cells and eliminates them. CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), which kill tumor cells and provide antitumor immunity, select their targets by recognizing tumor antigenic peptides presented by MHC class-I (MHC-I) molecules. Cancer cells circumvent immune surveillance using diverse strategies. A key mechanism of cancer immune evasion is downregulation of MHC-I and key proteins of the antigen processing and presentation machinery (APM). Even though impaired MHC-I expression in cancers is well-known, reversing the MHC-I defects remains the least advanced area of tumor immunology. The discoveries that NLRC5 is the key transcriptional activator of MHC-I and APM genes, and genetic lesions and epigenetic modifications of NLRC5 are the most common cause of MHC-I defects in cancers, have raised the hopes for restoring MHC-I expression. Here, we provide an overview of cancer immunity mediated by CD8+ T cells and the functions of NLRC5 in MHC-I antigen presentation pathways. We describe the impressive advances made in understanding the regulation of NLRC5 expression, the data supporting the antitumor functions of NLRC5 and a few reports that argue for a pro-tumorigenic role. Finally, we explore the possible avenues of exploiting NLRC5 for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhil Shukla
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Maryse Cloutier
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Madanraj Appiya Santharam
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Sheela Ramanathan
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
- CRCHUS, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H5N4, Canada
| | - Subburaj Ilangumaran
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada; (A.S.); (M.C.); (M.A.S.); (S.R.)
- CRCHUS, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-819-346-1110 (ext. 14834)
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81
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Parmiani G, Maccalli C. The early antitumor immune response is necessary for tumor growth: Re-visiting Prehn's hypothesis in the human melanoma system. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:930-934. [PMID: 23162761 PMCID: PMC3489749 DOI: 10.4161/onci.21455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early events responsible of tumor growth in patients with a normal immune system are poorly understood. Here, we discuss, in the context of human melanoma, the Prehn hypothesis according to which a weak antitumor immune response may be required for tumor growth before weakly or non-immunogenic tumor cell subpopulations are selected by the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Parmiani
- Unit of Immuno-Biotherapy of Melanoma and Solid Tumors; Program of Immmuno-Biotherapy of Cancer; San Raffaele Hospital; Milano, Italy
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82
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Cantini G, Pisati F, Pessina S, Finocchiaro G, Pellegatta S. Immunotherapy against the radial glia marker GLAST effectively triggers specific antitumor effectors without autoimmunity. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:884-893. [PMID: 23162756 PMCID: PMC3489744 DOI: 10.4161/onci.20637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The glutamate-aspartate transporter GLAST is a radial glia marker that is highly expressed in GL261 stem-like cells (GSCs). To target GLAST, we treated glioma-bearing mice with three subcutaneous injections of four GLAST peptides emulsified with Montanide ISA-51 in association with granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) injections. Vaccination with GLAST peptides significantly prolonged survival, effectively enhanced systemic T-cell and NK-cell responses and promoted robust antitumor cytotoxicity. GLAST expression significantly decreased in gliomas from immunized mice, as evaluated by histological analysis and real-time PCR (RT-PCR). Moreover, the immunization protocol led to the upregulation of interferonγ (IFNγ) and tumor necrosis factorα (TNFα) as well as to the downregulation of transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 and β2 in the tumor. Beyond these changes, gliomas from immunized mice exhibited an increased recruitment of NK cells and antigen-specific CD8+ T cells expressing the tumor homing molecule VLA-4, as well as a local chemotactic gradient featuring expression of CXCL10 (which may be responsible for the recruitment of CTLs), CCL3, CCL4 and CCL5 (which are involved in NK-cell migration), and NKG2D ligand on glioma cells. Importantly, although GLAST is expressed in the central nervous system, autoimmune reactions were not observed in immunized mice. Altogether, these results support the contention that GLAST may constitute a glioma antigen against which immune responses can be efficiently induced without major safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Cantini
- Unit of Molecular Neuro-Oncology; Neurological Institute C. Besta; Milan, Italy ; Department of Experimental Oncology; European Institute of Oncology; Campus IFOM-IEO; Milan, Italy
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Banchelli F, D'Amico R, Maiorana A, Morandi U, Dominici M, Haider KH. Cancer stem cells and macrophages: molecular connections and future perspectives against cancer. Oncotarget 2021; 12:230-250. [PMID: 33613850 PMCID: PMC7869576 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been considered the key drivers of cancer initiation and progression due to their unlimited self-renewal capacity and their ability to induce tumor formation. Macrophages, particularly tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), establish a tumor microenvironment to protect and induce CSCs development and dissemination. Many studies in the past decade have been performed to understand the molecular mediators of CSCs and TAMs, and several studies have elucidated the complex crosstalk that occurs between these two cell types. The aim of this review is to define the complex crosstalk between these two cell types and to highlight potential future anti-cancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Center of Statistic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonino Maiorana
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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84
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Dai X, Guo Y, Hu Y, Bao X, Zhu X, Fu Q, Zhang H, Tong Z, Liu L, Zheng Y, Zhao P, Fang W. Immunotherapy for targeting cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. Theranostics 2021; 11:3489-3501. [PMID: 33537099 PMCID: PMC7847682 DOI: 10.7150/thno.54648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid development and remarkable success of checkpoint inhibitors have provided significant breakthroughs in cancer treatment, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, only 15-20% of HCC patients can benefit from checkpoint inhibitors. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for recurrence, metastasis, and local and systemic therapy resistance in HCC. Accumulating evidence has suggested that HCC CSCs can create an immunosuppressive microenvironment through certain intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms, resulting in immune evasion. Intrinsic evasion mechanisms mainly include activation of immune-related CSC signaling pathways, low-level expression of antigen presenting molecules, and high-level expression of immunosuppressive molecules. External evasion mechanisms are mainly related to HBV/HCV infection, alcoholic/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, hypoxia stimulation, abnormal angiogenesis, and crosstalk between CSCs and immune cells. A better understanding of the complex mechanisms of CSCs involved in immune evasion will contribute to therapies for HCC. Here we will outline the detailed mechanisms of immune evasion for CSCs, and provide an overview of the current immunotherapies targeting CSCs in HCC.
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85
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Iwata R, Hyoung Lee J, Hayashi M, Dianzani U, Ofune K, Maruyama M, Oe S, Ito T, Hashiba T, Yoshimura K, Nonaka M, Nakano Y, Norian L, Nakano I, Asai A. ICOSLG-mediated regulatory T-cell expansion and IL-10 production promote progression of glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2021; 22:333-344. [PMID: 31634400 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noz204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting immune checkpoint proteins has recently gained substantial attention due to the dramatic success of this strategy in clinical trials for some cancers. Inducible T-cell co-stimulator ligand (ICOSLG) is a member of the B7 family of immune regulatory ligands, expression of which in cancer is implicated in disease progression due to regulation of antitumor adaptive immunity. Although aberrant ICOSLG expression has been reported in glioma cells, the underlying mechanisms that promote glioblastoma (GBM) progression remain elusive. METHODS Here, we investigated a causal role for ICOSLG in GBM progression by analyzing ICOSLG expression in both human glioma tissues and patient-derived GBM sphere cells (GSCs). We further examined its immune modulatory effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis and GBM tissue microarray showed that upregulation of ICOSLG expression was associated with poor prognosis in patients with GBM. ICOSLG expression was upregulated preferentially in mesenchymal GSCs but not in proneural GSCs in a tumor necrosis factor-α/nuclear factor-kappaB-dependent manner. Furthermore, ICOSLG expression by mesenchymal GSCs promoted expansion of T cells that produced interleukin-10. Knockdown of the gene encoding ICOSLG markedly reduced GBM tumor growth in immune competent mice, with a concomitant downregulation of interleukin-10 levels in the tumor microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of the ICOSLG-inducible co-stimulator axis in GBM may provide a promising immunotherapeutic approach for suppressing a subset of GBM with an elevated mesenchymal signature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoichi Iwata
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Joo Hyoung Lee
- Department of Pathology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mikio Hayashi
- Department of Physiology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Umberto Dianzani
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Health Sciences, "A. Avogadro" University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Kohei Ofune
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Masato Maruyama
- Department of Anatomy and Brain Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Souichi Oe
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Tomoki Ito
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Hashiba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | | | - Masahiro Nonaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Yosuke Nakano
- Department of Anatomy and Brain Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Lyse Norian
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ichiro Nakano
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Akio Asai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
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86
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Robilliard LD, Yu J, Anchan A, Joseph W, Finlay G, Angel CE, Scott Graham E. Comprehensive analysis of inhibitory checkpoint ligand expression by glioblastoma cells. Immunol Cell Biol 2020; 99:403-418. [PMID: 33217047 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain malignancy commonly refractory to classical and novel chemo-, radio- and immunotherapies, with median survival times of ~15 months following diagnosis. Poor immunological responses exemplified by the downregulation of T-cell activity, and upregulation of immunosuppressive cells within the tumor microenvironment have limited the effectiveness of immunotherapy in glioblastoma to date. Here we show that glioblastoma cells express a large repertoire of inhibitory checkpoint ligands known to control effector T cell responses. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis reveals that glioblastoma cells with an enhanced stem cell-like phenotype express several investigated ligands at significant levels on their cell surface. This reveals that glioblastoma stem-like cells express suppressive ligands with the potential of suppressing major T cell checkpoint receptors. With this information, it is now essential that we understand the relevance of this extensive repertoire of immune checkpoint ligands and their functional consequence on immune evasion in glioblastoma. This is necessary to develop effective immunotherapeutics and to be able to match treatment to patient, especially in the light of CheckMate 143.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laverne D Robilliard
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane Yu
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Akshata Anchan
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Wayne Joseph
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Graeme Finlay
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Catherine E Angel
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - E Scott Graham
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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87
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Bozzato E, Bastiancich C, Préat V. Nanomedicine: A Useful Tool against Glioma Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:cancers13010009. [PMID: 33375034 PMCID: PMC7792799 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The standard of care therapy of glioblastoma (GBM) includes invasive surgical resection, followed by radiotherapy and concomitant chemotherapy. However, this therapy has limited success, and the prognosis for GBM patients is very poor. Although many factors may contribute to the failure of current treatments, one of the main causes of GBM recurrences are glioma stem cells (GSCs). This review focuses on nanomedicine strategies that have been developed to eliminate GSCs and the benefits that they have brought to the fight against cancer. The first section describes the characteristics of GSCs and the chemotherapeutic strategies that have been used to selectively kill them. The second section outlines the nano-based delivery systems that have been developed to act against GSCs by dividing them into nontargeted and targeted nanocarriers. We also highlight the advantages of nanomedicine compared to conventional chemotherapy and examine the different targeting strategies that have been employed. The results achieved thus far are encouraging for the pursuit of effective strategies for the eradication of GSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elia Bozzato
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Chiara Bastiancich
- Institute Neurophysiopathol, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France;
| | - Véronique Préat
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
- Correspondence:
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88
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Yuan Y, Wang L, Ge D, Tan L, Cao B, Fan H, Xue L. Exosomal O-GlcNAc transferase from esophageal carcinoma stem cell promotes cancer immunosuppression through up-regulation of PD-1 in CD8 + T cells. Cancer Lett 2020; 500:98-106. [PMID: 33307156 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal carcinoma stem cells (ECSCs) are responsible for the initiation and therapy-resistance of esophageal cancer. Nutrient sensor O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) promoted the growth and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the contributions of OGT to the tumorigenesis of ECSCs remain largely uncover. In the present study, as compared to matched non-stem cancer cells, the expression of OGT was higher in ALDH+ ECSCs. Knock down of OGT by lentivirus system reduced the self-renewal capacities and tumorigenicity of ALDH+ ECSCs. In addition, OGT in exosome derived from ALDH+ ECSCs was taken up by neighboring CD8+ T cells and increased the expression of PD-1 in CD8+ T cells. Down-regulation of OGT increased the apoptosis of ALDH+ ECSCs induced by CD8+ T cells, which could be blocked by overexpression of PD-1 in CD8+ T cells. Together, OGT in exosome from ECSCs protects ECSCs from CD8+ T cells through up-regulation of PD-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Di Ge
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lijie Tan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Benjin Cao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugates Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Liang Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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89
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Reddy KB. Stem Cells: Current Status and Therapeutic Implications. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E1372. [PMID: 33233552 PMCID: PMC7699792 DOI: 10.3390/genes11111372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a class of pluripotent cells that have been observed in most types of cancers. Evolving evidence suggests that CSCs, has the ability to self-renew and initiate tumors, may be responsible for promoting therapeutic resistance, tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor heterogeneity is originating from CSCs and its progenitors are recognized as major difficulty in efficaciously treating cancer patients. Therefore, understanding the biological mechanisms by which CSCs survive chemo- and-radiation therapy has the potential to identify new therapeutic strategies in the future. In this review, we summarized recent advances in CSC biology and their environment, and discuss about the potential therapies to prevent therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaladhar B. Reddy
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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90
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Warrier S, Patil M, Bhansali S, Varier L, Sethi G. Designing precision medicine panels for drug refractory cancers targeting cancer stemness traits. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188475. [PMID: 33188876 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one amongst the major causes of death today and cancer biology is one of the most well researched fields in medicine. The driving force behind cancer is considered to be a minor subpopulation of cells, the cancer stem cells (CSCs). Similar to other stem cells, these cells are self-renewing and proliferating but CSCs are also difficult to target by chemo- or radio-therapies. Cancer stem cells are known to be present in most of the cancer subgroups such as carcinoma, sarcoma, myeloma, leukemia, lymphomas and mixed cancer types. There is a wide gamut of factors attributed to the stemness of cancers, ranging from dysregulated signaling pathways, and activation of enzymes aiding immune evasion, to conducive tumor microenvironment, to name a few. The defining outcome of the increased presence of CSCs is tumor metastasis and relapse. Predictive medicine approach based on the plethora of CSC markers would be a move towards precision medicine to specifically identify CSC-rich tumors. In this review, we discuss the cancer subtypes and the role of different CSC specific markers in these varying subtypes. We also categorize the CSC markers based their defining trait contributing to stemness. This review thus provides a comprehensive approach to catalogue a predictive set of markers to identify the resistant and refractory cancer stem cell population within different tumor subtypes, so as to facilitate better prognosis and targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India; Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
| | - Manasi Patil
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | - Sanyukta Bhansali
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117 600, Singapore
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91
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Efficacy of a novel double-controlled oncolytic adenovirus driven by the Ki67 core promoter and armed with IL-15 against glioblastoma cells. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:124. [PMID: 33133514 PMCID: PMC7592588 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00485-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Glioblastoma (GBM) is an immunosuppressive, highly vascular and devastating malignant brain tumor. Even with progressive combination treatment that includes surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the prognosis for GBM patients is still extremely poor. Oncolytic adenovirus (OAd) can specifically replicate in GBM cells, permitting the rapid copy of the therapeutic genes it carries. Moreover, E1A is an essential gene in adenoviral replication and is the first gene expressed upon viral infection. E1A expression can be regulated by the Ki67 promoter, while the CMV promoter drives therapeutic gene expression. However, the efficacy of a double-controlled OAd driven by the Ki67 core promoter and armed with IL-15 against GBM cells has not been investigated. Methods Fluorescence microscopy was performed to evaluate infection ability in the viruses. Cell viability was detected by CCK-8 assay. Levels of cytokines in different supernatants were determined by ELISA, and IL-15 gene expression was measured by RT-PCR. Angiogenic capacity was analyzed by tube formation assay. Results We successfully constructed a double-controlled oncolytic adenovirus driven by the Ki67 core promoter and armed with IL-15 that selectively infected and killed GBM cells while sparing normal cells. The adenoviruses prime IL-15 gene expression to significantly enhance anti-GBM efficacy through effective activation of microglial cells. Moreover, OAd not only directly inhibits angiogenesis but exhibits potent antiangiogenic capacity mediated by the reduction of VEGF secretion. Conclusions These results provide new insight into the effects of a novel double-controlled OAd driven by the Ki67 core promoter and armed with IL-15 in glioblastoma treatment, which may help in the development of novel therapies in solid tumors.
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92
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Zhang D, Xu X, Ye Q. Metabolism and immunity in breast cancer. Front Med 2020; 15:178-207. [PMID: 33074528 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-020-0793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies that seriously threaten women's health. In the process of the malignant transformation of breast cancer, metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion represent the two main fascinating characteristics of cancer and facilitate cancer cell proliferation. Breast cancer cells generate energy through increased glucose metabolism. Lipid metabolism contributes to biological signal pathways and forms cell membranes except energy generation. Amino acids act as basic protein units and metabolic regulators in supporting cell growth. For tumor-associated immunity, poor immunogenicity and heightened immunosuppression cause breast cancer cells to evade the host's immune system. For the past few years, the complex mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion are deeply investigated, and the genes involved in these processes are used as clinical therapeutic targets for breast cancer. Here, we review the recent findings related to abnormal metabolism and immune characteristics, regulatory mechanisms, their links, and relevant therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyu Zhang
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiaojie Xu
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Qinong Ye
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China.
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93
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López de Andrés J, Griñán-Lisón C, Jiménez G, Marchal JA. Cancer stem cell secretome in the tumor microenvironment: a key point for an effective personalized cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:136. [PMID: 33059744 PMCID: PMC7559894 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00966-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a tumor subpopulation responsible for tumor metastasis and resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy, ultimately leading to tumor relapse. As a consequence, the detection and eradication of this cell subpopulation represent a current challenge in oncology medicine. CSC phenotype is dependent on the tumor microenvironment (TME), which involves stem and differentiated tumor cells, as well as different cell types, such as mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts and cells of the immune system, in addition to the extracellular matrix (ECM), different in composition to the ECM in healthy tissues. CSCs regulate multiple cancer hallmarks through the interaction with cells and ECM in their environment by secreting extracellular vesicles including exosomes, and soluble factors such as interleukins, cytokines, growth factors and other metabolites to the TME. Through these factors, CSCs generate and activate their own tumor niche by recruiting stromal cells and modulate angiogenesis, metastasis, resistance to antitumor treatments and their own maintenance by the secretion of different factors such as IL-6, VEGF and TGF-ß. Due to the strong influence of the CSC secretome on disease development, the new antitumor therapies focus on targeting these communication networks to eradicate the tumor and prevent metastasis, tumor relapse and drug resistance. This review summarizes for the first time the main components of the CSC secretome and how they mediate different tumor processes. Lastly, the relevance of the CSC secretome in the development of more precise and personalized antitumor therapies is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia López de Andrés
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Carmen Griñán-Lisón
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Gema Jiménez
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain. .,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain. .,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain. .,Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain.
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain. .,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain. .,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain. .,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain.
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94
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Quaglino E, Cavallo F, Conti L. Cancer stem cell antigens as targets for new combined anti-cancer therapies. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 129:105861. [PMID: 33031926 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2020.105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has ushered in a new, golden age for cancer immunotherapy. However, their clinical success remains limited in several solid cancer types because of the low intrinsic immunogenicity of tumors and the development of immune escape mechanisms. Cancer stem cells (CSC), a small population of cancer cells that are responsible for tumor onset, metastatic spread and relapse after treatment, play a pivotal role in resistance to ICIs. The development of novel therapies that can target CSCs would thus improve the outcomes of current immunotherapy regimens. In this light, vaccines that target CSCs are a promising strategy. This paper briefly describes the immunologic properties of CSCs and their antigenic profile, and reviews current preclinical and clinical approaches that combine CSC-targeting vaccines with different synergistic therapies for the development of more effective antineoplastic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Quaglino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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95
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Fortunato O, Belisario DC, Compagno M, Giovinazzo F, Bracci C, Pastorino U, Horenstein A, Malavasi F, Ferracini R, Scala S, Sozzi G, Roz L, Roato I, Bertolini G. CXCR4 Inhibition Counteracts Immunosuppressive Properties of Metastatic NSCLC Stem Cells. Front Immunol 2020; 11:02168. [PMID: 33123122 PMCID: PMC7566588 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are functionally defined as the cell subset with greater potential to initiate and propagate tumors. Within the heterogeneous population of lung CSCs, we previously identified highly disseminating CD133+CXCR4+ cells able to initiate distant metastasis (metastasis initiating cells-MICs) and to resist conventional chemotherapy. The establishment of an immunosuppressive microenvironment by tumor cells is crucial to sustain and foster metastasis formation, and CSCs deeply interfere with immune responses against tumors. How lung MICs can elude and educate immune cells surveillance to efficiently complete the metastasis cascade is, however, currently unknown. We show here in primary tumors from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients that MICs express higher levels of immunoregulatory molecules compared to tumor bulk, namely PD-L1 and CD73, an ectoenzyme that catalyzes the production of immunosuppressive adenosine, suggesting an enhanced ability of MICs to escape immune responses. To investigate in vitro the immunosuppressive ability of MICs, we derived lung spheroids from cultures of adherent lung cancer cell lines, showing enrichment in CD133+CXCR4+MICs, and increased expression of CD73 and CD38, an enzyme that also concurs in adenosine production. MICs-enriched spheroids release high levels of adenosine and express the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10, undetectable in an adherent cell counterpart. To prevent dissemination of MICs, we tested peptide R, a novel CXCR4 inhibitor that effectively controls in vitro lung tumor cell migration/invasion. Notably, we observed a decreased expression of CD73, CD38, and IL-10 following CXCR4 inhibition. We also functionally proved that conditioned medium from MICs-enriched spheroids compared to adherent cells has an enhanced ability to suppress CD8+ T cell activity, increase Treg population, and induce the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which participate in suppression of T cells. Treatment of spheroids with anti-CXCR4 rescued T cell cytotoxic activity and prevented TAM polarization, likely by causing the decrease of adenosine and IL-10 production. Overall, we provide evidence that the subset of lung MICs shows high potential to escape immune control and that inhibition of CXCR4 can impair both MICs dissemination and their immunosuppressive activity, therefore potentially providing a novel therapeutic target in combination therapies to improve efficacy of NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orazio Fortunato
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Dimas Carolina Belisario
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Mara Compagno
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Giovinazzo
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristiano Bracci
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy.,Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Ugo Pastorino
- Unit of Thoracic Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Horenstein
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy.,Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabio Malavasi
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy.,Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Riccardo Ferracini
- Department of Surgical Sciences (DISC), Orthopaedic Clinic-IRCCS, A.O.U. San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefania Scala
- Functional Genomics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Sozzi
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Roz
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Roato
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Città (AOU) della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Bertolini
- Tumor Genomics Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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96
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Cui X, Ma C, Vasudevaraja V, Serrano J, Tong J, Peng Y, Delorenzo M, Shen G, Frenster J, Morales RTT, Qian W, Tsirigos A, Chi AS, Jain R, Kurz SC, Sulman EP, Placantonakis DG, Snuderl M, Chen W. Dissecting the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments in Glioblastoma-on-a-Chip for optimized PD-1 immunotherapy. eLife 2020; 9:52253. [PMID: 32909947 PMCID: PMC7556869 DOI: 10.7554/elife.52253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) checkpoint immunotherapy efficacy remains unpredictable in glioblastoma (GBM) patients due to the genetic heterogeneity and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. Here, we report a microfluidics-based, patient-specific 'GBM-on-a-Chip' microphysiological system to dissect the heterogeneity of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments and optimize anti-PD-1 immunotherapy for different GBM subtypes. Our clinical and experimental analyses demonstrated that molecularly distinct GBM subtypes have distinct epigenetic and immune signatures that may lead to different immunosuppressive mechanisms. The real-time analysis in GBM-on-a-Chip showed that mesenchymal GBM niche attracted low number of allogeneic CD154+CD8+ T-cells but abundant CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and expressed elevated PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoints and TGF-β1, IL-10, and CSF-1 cytokines compared to proneural GBM. To enhance PD-1 inhibitor nivolumab efficacy, we co-administered a CSF-1R inhibitor BLZ945 to ablate CD163+ M2-TAMs and strengthened CD154+CD8+ T-cell functionality and GBM apoptosis on-chip. Our ex vivo patient-specific GBM-on-a-Chip provides an avenue for a personalized screening of immunotherapies for GBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cui
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States
| | | | - Jonathan Serrano
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Jie Tong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States
| | - Yansong Peng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States
| | - Michael Delorenzo
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Guomiao Shen
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Joshua Frenster
- Stem Cell Biology Program, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | | | - Weiyi Qian
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States
| | | | - Andrew S Chi
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Rajan Jain
- Department of Neuroradiology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Sylvia C Kurz
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Erik P Sulman
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Dimitris G Placantonakis
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Matija Snuderl
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
| | - Weiqiang Chen
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, United States.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, United States
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97
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Cancer stem cells and ceramide signaling: the cutting edges of immunotherapy. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8101-8111. [PMID: 32885363 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The multipotent, self renewing "cancer stem cells" (CSCs), a small population within tumor microenvironment facilitates transformed cells to grow and propagate within the body. The CSCs are discovered as resistant to the chemotherapeutic drug with distinct immunological characteristics. In recent years, immunologically targeting CSCs have emerged as an integral part of effective and successful cancer therapy. CSCs notably exhibit dysregulation in conventional sub-cellular sphingolipid metabolism. Recently, ceramide decaying enzymes have been shown to activate alternative ceramide signaling pathways leading to reduction in efficacy of the chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, a control over ceramide mediated modulations of CSCs offers an attractive dimension of effective cancer treatment strategy in future. In this review, we focused on the recent findings on broad spectrum of ceramide mediated signaling in CSCs within the tumor niche and their role in potential cancer immunotherapy.
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98
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Ciechomska IA, Gielniewski B, Wojtas B, Kaminska B, Mieczkowski J. EGFR/FOXO3a/BIM signaling pathway determines chemosensitivity of BMP4-differentiated glioma stem cells to temozolomide. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1326-1340. [PMID: 32788653 PMCID: PMC8080762 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0479-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that glioma stem cells (GSCs), which are rare cells characterized by pluripotency and self-renewal ability, are responsible for glioblastoma (GBM) propagation, recurrence and resistance to therapies. Bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs) induce GSC differentiation, which leads to elimination of GSCs and sensitization of glioma to chemotherapeutics. Alterations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene are detected in more than half of GBMs; however, the role of EGFR in the chemoresistance of GSCs remains unknown. Here, we examined whether EGFR signaling affects BMP4-induced differentiation of GSCs and their response to the alkylating drug temozolomide (TMZ). We show that BMP4 triggers the SMAD signaling cascade in GSCs independent of the EGFR level. BMP4 downregulated the levels of pluripotency markers (SOX2 and OLIG2) with a concomitant induction of an astrocytic marker (GFAP) and a neuronal marker (β-Tubulin III). However, GSCs with different EGFR levels responded differently to treatments. BMP4-induced differentiation did not enhance sensitivity to TMZ in EGFRlow GSCs, in contrast to EGFRhigh GSCs, which underwent apoptosis. We then identified differences in cell cycle regulation. In EGFRlow cells, BMP4-triggered G1 cell cycle arrest which was not detected in EGFRhigh cells. RNA-seq profiles further highlighted transcriptomic alterations and distinct processes characterizing EGFR-dependent responses in the course of BMP4-induced differentiation. We found that the control of BIM (the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family protein) by the AKT/FOXO3a axis only operated in BMP4-differentiated EGFRhigh cells upon TMZ treatment. The properties of individual glioma stem cells (GSCs) may influence the success of chemotherapy in tackling aggressive brain cancer. GSCs promote tumor growth and chemotherapy resistance in glioblastoma tumors. One potential treatment approach uses bone morphogenetic proteins to induce GSCs to differentiate into less harmful cells. Once the GSC population has dwindled, chemoresistance reduces in many but not all cases. Jakub Mieczkowski, Bozena Kaminska and co-workers at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology in Warsaw, Poland, conducted experiments on patient-derived glioblastoma cell cultures. They found that samples with high expression levels of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein in GSCs showed heightened sensitivity to the chemotherapy drug temozolomide after differentiation. Conversely, low levels of EGFR resulted in chemoresistance being maintained after differentiation, which may explain the failure of chemotherapy in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Anna Ciechomska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 3 Pasteur St, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartlomiej Gielniewski
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 3 Pasteur St, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Wojtas
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 3 Pasteur St, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bozena Kaminska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 3 Pasteur St, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Jakub Mieczkowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 3 Pasteur St, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
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99
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BMI1 Inhibition Eliminates Residual Cancer Stem Cells after PD1 Blockade and Activates Antitumor Immunity to Prevent Metastasis and Relapse. Cell Stem Cell 2020; 27:238-253.e6. [PMID: 32697949 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2020.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PD1 blockade-based combination therapy has been approved as a first-line treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, the response rate remains relatively low, and patients with HNSCC eventually relapse. Here, we show that the combination treatment of anti-PD1 and cisplatin enriched BMI1+ CSCs in HNSCC while inhibiting HNSCC growth. In contrast, the pharmacological and genetic inhibition of BMI1 eliminated BMI1+ CSCs and enabled PD1 blockade therapy, resulting in the inhibition of metastatic HNSCC and prevention of HNSCC relapses. BMI1 inhibition strongly induced tumor cell-intrinsic immune responses by recruiting and activating CD8+ T cells in addition to eliminating BMI1+ CSCs. Mechanistically, BMI1 inhibition induced CD8+ T cell-recruiting chemokines by stimulating IRF3-mediated transcription and erasing repressive H2A ubiquitination. Our results suggest that targeting BMI1 may enable immune checkpoint blockade to inhibit metastatic tumor growth and prevent tumor relapse by activating cell-intrinsic immunity, in addition to purging CSCs.
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100
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DeCordova S, Shastri A, Tsolaki AG, Yasmin H, Klein L, Singh SK, Kishore U. Molecular Heterogeneity and Immunosuppressive Microenvironment in Glioblastoma. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1402. [PMID: 32765498 PMCID: PMC7379131 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, with a poor prognosis, despite surgical resection combined with radio- and chemotherapy. The major clinical obstacles contributing to poor GBM prognosis are late diagnosis, diffuse infiltration, pseudo-palisading necrosis, microvascular proliferation, and resistance to conventional therapy. These challenges are further compounded by extensive inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity and the dynamic plasticity of GBM cells. The complex heterogeneous nature of GBM cells is facilitated by the local inflammatory tumor microenvironment, which mostly induces tumor aggressiveness and drug resistance. An immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of GBM provides multiple pathways for tumor immune evasion. Infiltrating immune cells, mostly tumor-associated macrophages, comprise much of the non-neoplastic population in GBM. Further understanding of the immune microenvironment of GBM is essential to make advances in the development of immunotherapeutics. Recently, whole-genome sequencing, epigenomics and transcriptional profiling have significantly helped improve the prognostic and therapeutic outcomes of GBM patients. Here, we discuss recent genomic advances, the role of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms, and the presence of an established immunosuppressive GBM microenvironment that suppresses and/or prevents the anti-tumor host response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syreeta DeCordova
- Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Abhishek Shastri
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony G Tsolaki
- Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hadida Yasmin
- Immunology and Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University, Cooch Behar, India
| | - Lukas Klein
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastroenterology Oncology, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Shiv K Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastroenterology Oncology, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Uday Kishore
- Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London, United Kingdom
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