201
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Fujii SI, Yamasaki S, Hanada K, Ueda S, Kawamura M, Shimizu K. Cancer immunotherapy using artificial adjuvant vector cells to deliver NY-ESO-1 antigen to dendritic cells in situ. Cancer Sci 2021; 113:864-874. [PMID: 34971473 PMCID: PMC8898705 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
NY‐ESO‐1 is a cancer/testis antigen expressed in various cancer types. However, the induction of NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTLs through vaccines is somewhat difficult. Thus, we developed a new type of artificial adjuvant vector cell (aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1) expressing a CD1d‐NKT cell ligand complex and a tumor‐associated antigen, NY‐ESO‐1. First, we determined the activation of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) and natural killer (NK) cell responses by aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1. We then showed that the NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTL response was successfully elicited through aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 therapy. After injection of aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1, we found that dendritic cells (DCs) in situ expressed high levels of costimulatory molecules and produced interleukn‐12 (IL‐12), indicating that DCs undergo maturation in vivo. Furthermore, the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen from aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 was delivered to the DCs in vivo, and it was presented on MHC class I molecules. The cross‐presentation of the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen was absent in conventional DC‐deficient mice, suggesting a host DC‐mediated CTL response. Thus, this strategy helps generate sufficient CD8+ NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTLs along with iNKT and NK cell activation, resulting in a strong antitumor effect. Furthermore, we established a human DC‐transferred NOD/Shi‐scid/IL‐2γcnull immunodeficient mouse model and showed that the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen from aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 was cross‐presented to antigen‐specific CTLs through human DCs. Taken together, these data suggest that aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 has potential for harnessing innate and adaptive immunity against NY‐ESO‐1‐expressing malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichiro Fujii
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan.,RIKEN Program for drug discovery and medical technology platforms, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Satoru Yamasaki
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenichi Hanada
- Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shogo Ueda
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masami Kawamura
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
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202
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Silva RCMC, Panis C, Pires BRB. Lessons from transmissible cancers for immunotherapy and transplant. Immunol Med 2021; 45:146-161. [PMID: 34962854 DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2021.2018783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of horizontal transmission of cancer between vertebrates is an issue that interests scientists and medical society. Transmission requires: (i) a mechanism by which cancer cells can transfer to another organism and (ii) a repressed immune response on the part of the recipient. Transmissible tumors are unique models to comprehend the responses and mechanisms mediated by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), which can be transposed for transplant biology. Here, we discuss the mechanisms involved in immune-mediated tissue rejection, making a parallel with transmissible cancers. We also discuss cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in cancer immunotherapy and anti-rejection therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Cardoso Maciel Costa Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoreceptors and Signaling, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina Panis
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, State University of West Paraná, UNIOESTE, Francisco Beltrão, Brazil
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203
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Immune-instructive materials as new tools for immunotherapy. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 74:194-203. [PMID: 34959210 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Immune instructive materials, are materials with the ability to modulate or mimic the function of immune cells, provide exciting opportunities for developing new therapies in many areas including medical devices, chronic inflammation, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. In this review we highlight some of the latest research involving material-based strategies for modulating macrophage phenotype and dendritic cell function, as well as a brief description on biomaterial use in T cell and natural killer cell engineering. We highlight studies on material topography, size, shape and surface chemistry to reduce inflammation, along with scaffold and hydrogel delivery systems that are used for modulating DC phenotype and influencing T cell polarization. Artificial antigen presenting cells are also reviewed as a promising approach to cancer immunotherapy.
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204
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Na HY, Park Y, Nam SK, Koh J, Kwak Y, Ahn SH, Park DJ, Kim HH, Lee KS, Lee HS. Prognostic significance of natural killer cell-associated markers in gastric cancer: quantitative analysis using multiplex immunohistochemistry. J Transl Med 2021; 19:529. [PMID: 34952595 PMCID: PMC8710020 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03203-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) cells mediate the anti-tumoral immune response as an important component of innate immunity. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance and functional implication of NK cell-associated surface receptors in gastric cancer (GC) by using multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC). Methods We performed an mIHC on tissue microarray slides, including 55 GC tissue samples. A total of 11 antibodies including CD57, NKG2A, CD16, HLA-E, CD3, CD20, CD45, CD68, CK, SMA, and ki-67 were used. CD45 + CD3-CD57 + cells were considered as CD57 + NK cells. Results Among CD45 + immune cells, the proportion of CD57 + NK cell was the lowest (3.8%), whereas that of CD57 + and CD57- T cells (65.5%) was the highest, followed by macrophages (25.4%), and B cells (5.3%). CD57 + NK cells constituted 20% of CD45 + CD57 + immune cells while the remaining 80% were CD57 + T cells. The expression of HLA-E in tumor cells correlated with that in tumoral T cells, B cells, and macrophages, but not CD57 + NK cells. The higher density of tumoral CD57 + NK cells and tumoral CD57 + NKG2A + NK cells was associated with inferior survival. Conclusions Although the number of CD57 + NK cells was lower than that of other immune cells, CD57 + NK cells and CD57 + NKG2A + NK cells were significantly associated with poor outcomes, suggesting that NK cell subsets play a critical role in GC progression. NK cells and their inhibitory receptor, NKG2A, may be potential targets in GC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-03203-8.
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205
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Abstract
Two recent reports in Nature highlight a novel mechanism of immunoevasion that relies on the SET domain bifurcated histone lysine methyltransferase 1 (SETDB1)-dependent epigenetic suppression of endogenous retroelements in melanoma cells. Because SETDB1 is highly expressed by the stem cell compartment, these findings delineate an innovative strategy for restoring cancer stem cell immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Galassi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ilio Vitale
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, c/o IRCSS Candiolo, Torino, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA; Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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206
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Vuletić A, Mirjačić Martinović K, Tišma Miletić N, Zoidakis J, Castellvi-Bel S, Čavić M. Cross-Talk Between Tumor Cells Undergoing Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Natural Killer Cells in Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:750022. [PMID: 34858978 PMCID: PMC8631470 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.750022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells undergoing epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME) reciprocally influence each other. Immune cells, by supplying TME with bioactive molecules including cytokines, chemokines, enzymes, metabolites, and by physical interactions with tumor cells via their receptors, represent an important factor that affects EMT. Chronical inflammation in TME favorizes tumor growth and invasiveness and stimulates synthesis of EMT promoting transcription factors. Natural killer (NK) cells, owing to their unique ability to exert cytotoxic function independent of major histocompatibility (MHC)-mediated antigen presentation, play a significant role in the control of metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Although, the cross-talk between immune cells and tumor cells in general favors the induction of EMT and inhibition of antitumor immune responses, there are some changes in the immunogenicity of tumor cells during EMT of CRC cells that increase their susceptibility to NK cell cytotoxic lysis. However, suppressive TME downmodulates the expression of activating NK cell receptors, decreases the expression of activating and increases the expression of inhibitory NK cell ligands on tumor cells, and impairs NK cell metabolism that altogether negatively affects the overall NK cell function. Furthermore, process of EMT is often associated with increased expression of programmed cell death ligand (PD-L) and expression of immune checkpoint molecules PD-1, TIGIT, and TIM3 on functionally exhausted NK cells in TME in CRC. In this review we discuss modalities of cross-talk between tumor cells and NK cells, with regard of EMT-driven changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vuletić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Nevena Tišma Miletić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jerome Zoidakis
- Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sergi Castellvi-Bel
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Clínic, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d'Investigacions Biomčdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Milena Čavić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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207
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Darwich A, Silvestri A, Benmebarek MR, Mouriès J, Cadilha B, Melacarne A, Morelli L, Supino D, Taleb A, Obeck H, Sustmann C, Losurdo A, Masci G, Curigliano G, Kobold S, Penna G, Rescigno M. Paralysis of the cytotoxic granule machinery is a new cancer immune evasion mechanism mediated by chitinase 3-like-1. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-003224. [PMID: 34824159 PMCID: PMC8627417 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) cells require a functional lytic granule machinery to mediate effective antitumor responses. Evading the lytic cargo deployed at the immune synapse (IS) could be a critical step for cancer progression through yet unidentified mechanisms. Methods NK cell antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is a major determinant of the clinical efficacy of some therapeutic antibodies including the anti-HER2 Trastuzumab. Thus, we screened sera of Trastuzumab-resistant HER2 +patients with breast cancer for molecules that could inhibit NK cell ADCC. We validated our findings in vitro using cytotoxicity assays and confocal imaging of the lytic granule machinery and in vivo using syngeneic and xenograft murine models. Results We found that sera from Trastuzumab-refractory patients could inhibit healthy NK cell ADCC in vitro. These sera contained high levels of the inflammatory protein chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) compared with sera from responders and healthy controls. We demonstrate that recombinant CHI3L1 inhibits both ADCC and innate NK cell cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, CHI3L1 prevents the correct polarization of the microtubule-organizing center along with the lytic granules to the IS by hindering the receptor of advanced glycation end-products and its downstream JNK signaling. In vivo, CHI3L1 administration drastically impairs the control of NK cell-sensitive tumors, while CHI3L1 blockade synergizes with ADCC to cure mice with HER2 +xenografts. Conclusion Our work highlights a new paradigm of tumor immune escape mediated by CHI3L1 which acts on the cytotoxic machinery and prevents granule polarization. Targeting CHI3L1 could mitigate immune escape and potentiate antibody and cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbass Darwich
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Juliette Mouriès
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Cadilha
- Division for Clinical Pharmacology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Domenico Supino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Hannah Obeck
- Department of Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Sebastian Kobold
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, Munich, UK
| | | | - Maria Rescigno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy .,Humanitas Mirasole SpA, Rozzano, Lombardia, Italy
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208
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Costa AC, Santos JMO, Gil da Costa RM, Medeiros R. Impact of immune cells on the hallmarks of cancer: A literature review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 168:103541. [PMID: 34801696 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) are critical players in the tumor microenvironment, modulating cancer cell functions. TIICs are highly heterogenic and plastic and may either suppress cancers or provide support for tumor growth. A wide range of studies have shed light on how tumor-associated macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, mast cells, natural killer cells and lymphocytes contribute for the establishment of several hallmarks of cancer and became the basis for successful immunotherapies. Many of those TIICs play pivotal roles in several hallmarks of cancer. This review contributes to elucidate the multifaceted roles of immune cells in cancer development, highlighting molecular components that constitute promising therapeutic targets. Additional studies are needed to clarify the relation between TIICs and hallmarks such as enabling replicative immortality, evading growth suppressors, sustaining proliferative signaling, resisting cell death and genome instability and mutation, to further explore their therapeutic potential and improve the outcomes of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Joana M O Santos
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rui M Gil da Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Inov4Agro, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; Postgraduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Department of Morphology, Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), and UFMA University Hospital (HUUFMA), 65080-805, São Luís, Brazil.
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal; Virology Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), 4200-072, Porto, Portugal; CEBIMED, Faculty of Health Sciences of the Fernando Pessoa University, 4249-004, Porto, Portugal; Research Department of the Portuguese League Against Cancer-Regional Nucleus of the North (Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro-Núcleo Regional do Norte), 4200-177, Porto, Portugal.
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209
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Antimetastatic defense by CD8 + T cells. Trends Cancer 2021; 8:145-157. [PMID: 34815204 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2021.10.006] [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: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is an intricate process whereby tumor cells migrate from the primary tumor, survive in the circulation, seed distal organs, and proliferate to create metastatic foci. CD8+ T cells can detect and eliminate tumor cells. Research on CD8+ T cell-dependent antitumor immunity has classically focused on its role in the primary tumor. There is increasing evidence, however, that CD8+ T cells have unique antimetastatic functions in various steps of the metastatic cascade. Here, we review the mechanisms whereby CD8+ T cells control metastatic lesions. We discuss their role in each step of metastasis, metastatic dormancy, and metastatic clonal evolution as well as the consequent clinical repercussions.
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210
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Chernosky NM, Tamagno I. The Role of the Innate Immune System in Cancer Dormancy and Relapse. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5621. [PMID: 34830776 PMCID: PMC8615859 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic spread and recurrence are intimately linked to therapy failure, which remains an overarching clinical challenge for patients with cancer. Cancer cells often disseminate early in the disease process and can remain dormant for years or decades before re-emerging as metastatic disease, often after successful treatment. The interactions of dormant cancer cells and their metastatic niche, comprised of various stromal and immune cells, can determine the length of time that cancer cells remain dormant, as well as when they reactivate. New studies are defining how innate immune cells in the primary tumor may be corrupted to help facilitate many aspects of dissemination and re-emergence from a dormant state. Although the scientific literature has partially shed light on the drivers of immune escape in cancer, the specific mechanisms regulating metastasis and dormancy in the context of anti-tumor immunity are still mostly unknown. This review follows the journey of metastatic cells from dissemination to dormancy and the onset of metastatic outgrowth and recurrent tumor development, with emphasis on the role of the innate immune system. To this end, further research identifying how immune cells interact with cancer cells at each step of cancer progression will pave the way for new therapies that target the reactivation of dormant cancer cells into recurrent, metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah M. Chernosky
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ilaria Tamagno
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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211
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Ma D, Hernandez GA, Lefebvre AEYT, Alshetaiwi H, Blake K, Dave KR, Rauf M, Williams JW, Davis RT, Evans KT, Longworth A, Masoud MYG, Lee R, Edwards RA, Digman MA, Kessenbrock K, Lawson DA. Patient-derived xenograft culture-transplant system for investigation of human breast cancer metastasis. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1268. [PMID: 34741115 PMCID: PMC8571269 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02596-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a fatal disease where research progress has been hindered by a lack of authentic experimental models. Here, we develop a 3D tumor sphere culture-transplant system that facilitates the growth and engineering of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumor cells for functional metastasis assays in vivo. Orthotopic transplantation and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses show that PDX tumor spheres maintain tumorigenic potential, and the molecular marker and global transcriptome signatures of native tumor cells. Tumor spheres display robust capacity for lentiviral engineering and dissemination in spontaneous and experimental metastasis assays in vivo. Inhibition of pathways previously reported to attenuate metastasis also inhibit metastasis after sphere culture, validating our approach for authentic investigations of metastasis. Finally, we demonstrate a new role for the metabolic enzyme NME1 in promoting breast cancer metastasis, providing proof-of-principle that our culture-transplant system can be used for authentic propagation and engineering of patient tumor cells for functional studies of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Ma
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Grace A Hernandez
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Hamad Alshetaiwi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kerrigan Blake
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kushal R Dave
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Maha Rauf
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Justice W Williams
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ryan T Davis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Katrina T Evans
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Aaron Longworth
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Madona Y G Masoud
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Regis Lee
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Robert A Edwards
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Michelle A Digman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kai Kessenbrock
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Devon A Lawson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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212
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Breast cancer immune microenvironment: from pre-clinical models to clinical therapies. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 191:257-267. [PMID: 34731350 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06431-0] [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: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The breast cancer tumour microenvironment (BC-TME) is characterized by significant cellular and spatial heterogeneity that has important clinical implications and can affect response to therapy. There is a growing need to develop methods that reliably quantify and characterize the BC-TME and model its composition and functions in experimental systems, in the hope of developing new treatments for patients. In this review, we examine the role of immune-activating cells (including tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes and natural killer cells) and immune inhibitory cells (including T regulatory cells, tumour-associated macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells) in the BC-TME. We summarize methods being used to characterize the microenvironment, with specific attention to pre-clinical models including co-cultures, organoids, and genetically modified and humanized mouse models. Finally, we explore the implications and applications of existing preclinical data for drug development and highlight several drugs designed to alter the BC-TME in order to improve treatment outcomes for patients.
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213
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Wagner M, Koyasu S. Innate Lymphoid Cells in Skin Homeostasis and Malignancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:758522. [PMID: 34691082 PMCID: PMC8531516 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.758522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are mostly tissue resident lymphocytes that are preferentially enriched in barrier tissues such as the skin. Although they lack the expression of somatically rearranged antigen receptors present on T and B cells, ILCs partake in multiple immune pathways by regulating tissue inflammation and potentiating adaptive immunity. Emerging evidence indicates that ILCs play a critical role in the control of melanoma, a type of skin malignancy thought to trigger immunity mediated mainly by adaptive immune responses. Here, we compile our current understanding of ILCs with regard to their role as the first line of defence against melanoma development and progression. We also discuss areas that merit further investigation. We envisage that the possibility to harness therapeutic potential of ILCs might benefit patients suffering from skin malignancies such as melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Wagner
- Laboratory for Immune Cell Systems, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Shigeo Koyasu
- Laboratory for Immune Cell Systems, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
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214
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Knab VM, Gotthardt D, Klein K, Grausenburger R, Heller G, Menzl I, Prinz D, Trifinopoulos J, List J, Fux D, Witalisz-Siepracka A, Sexl V. Triple-negative breast cancer cells rely on kinase-independent functions of CDK8 to evade NK-cell-mediated tumor surveillance. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:991. [PMID: 34689158 PMCID: PMC8542046 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04279-2] [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: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignant disease that is responsible for approximately 15% of breast cancers. The standard of care relies on surgery and chemotherapy but the prognosis is poor and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Recent in silico studies have revealed an inverse correlation between recurrence-free survival and the level of cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) in breast cancer patients. CDK8 is known to have a role in natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, but its function in TNBC progression and immune cell recognition or escape has not been investigated. We have used a murine model of orthotopic breast cancer to study the tumor-intrinsic role of CDK8 in TNBC. Knockdown of CDK8 in TNBC cells impairs tumor regrowth upon surgical removal and prevents metastasis. In the absence of CDK8, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is impaired and immune-mediated tumor-cell clearance is facilitated. CDK8 drives EMT in TNBC cells in a kinase-independent manner. In vivo experiments have confirmed that CDK8 is a crucial regulator of NK-cell-mediated immune evasion in TNBC. The studies also show that CDK8 is involved in regulating the checkpoint inhibitor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). The CDK8-PD-L1 axis is found in mouse and human TNBC cells, underlining the importance of CDK8-driven immune cell evasion in these highly aggressive breast cancer cells. Our data link CDK8 to PD-L1 expression and provide a rationale for investigating the possibility of CDK8-directed therapy for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Maria Knab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dagmar Gotthardt
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klara Klein
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Grausenburger
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerwin Heller
- Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingeborg Menzl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jana Trifinopoulos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia List
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Fux
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Veronika Sexl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
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215
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The Microenvironment's Role in Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome: From Progression to Therapeutic Implications. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102780. [PMID: 34685762 PMCID: PMC8534987 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102780] [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: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary Syndrome (SS) are the most common cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. It has been hypothesized that the interaction between the immune system, cutaneous cells, and neoplastic elements may play a role in MF/SS pathogenesis and progression. METHODS This paper aims to revise in a narrative way our current knowledge of the microenvironment's role in MF/SS. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Literature data support a possible implication of microenvironment cells in MF/SS pathogenesis and progression, opening up new therapeutic avenues.
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216
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Xiang Q, Dong S, Li XH. A Review of Phosphocreatine 3 Kinase δ Subtype (PI3Kδ) and Its Inhibitors in Malignancy. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e932772. [PMID: 34625526 PMCID: PMC8513496 DOI: 10.12659/msm.932772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cancer deaths are caused by metastasis. The phosphocreatine 3-kinase (PI3K) family includes the I–III classes, with class I divided into 4 subtypes (α, β, γ, δ); and PI3K signaling participates in the regulatory processes of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and glucose transport. Moreover, PI3Ks are modulators of cellular membrane lipids involved in signaling and trafficking events. The PI3Kdelta isoform (PI3Kδ), which is not only specifically expressed in hematopoietic cells, but also in different tumor cell lines, is expressed extensively. The increase in PI3Kδ activity is often associated with a variety of cancers. Currently, the strategy of tumor therapy based on PI3Kδ and its related signaling pathway is developing. Besides its established role in controlling functions in autoimmunity and inflammation, the role of PI3Kδ in tumor and metastasis is not clearly elucidated, with the effects of inhibiting PI3Kδ in several types of tumors also remaining unexplored. In addition, the specific inhibitor of PI3Kδ in tumor progression and metastasis and its underlying mechanism need to be further studied. The purpose of this review is to rationalize the existing functions and mechanisms of PI3Kδ in tumor metastasis and the relationship with hematopoietic cells in cancers as well cross-talking with miRNA, which provides a new theoretical basis and potential therapeutic target for the drug therapy of tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Xiang
- Institute of Medicine, Medical Research Center, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan, China (mainland)
| | - Shuai Dong
- Institute of Medicine, Medical Research Center, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan, China (mainland)
| | - Xian-Hui Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan, China (mainland)
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217
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He Y, Wu Y, Liu Z, Li B, Jiang N, Xu P, Xu A. Identification of Signature Genes Associated With Invasiveness and the Construction of a Prognostic Model That Predicts the Overall Survival of Bladder Cancer. Front Genet 2021; 12:694777. [PMID: 34589112 PMCID: PMC8473900 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.694777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Bladder cancer has become the tenth most diagnosed cancer worldwide. The prognosis has been shown to differ between non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We aimed to identify signature genes that are associated with the invasiveness and survival of bladder cancer and to identify potential treatments. Methods: We downloaded gene expression profiles of bladder cancer from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify differentially expressed genes and perform weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Functional enrichment was analyzed by GO and KEGG analyses. Hub genes were identified from the significant module. Another dataset was also acquired to verify the expression of hub genes. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to the dataset downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Risk scores were calculated and the effect was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. A nomogram was constructed and validated using training and testing samples, respectively. Analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment was conducted with the CIBERSORT algorithm. Results: In total, 1,245 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. A distinct module was identified that was significantly correlated to invasiveness. The genes within this module were found to be significantly associated with extracellular exosomes, GTPase activity, metabolic pathways, etc. Three hub genes (VSIG2, PPFIBP2, and DENND2D) were identified as biomarkers of invasiveness; two of these (PPFIBP2 and DENND2D) were closely associated with prognosis. The risk score was regarded as an independent prognostic factor. The nomogram was associated with acceptable accuracy for predicting 1- and 5-year overall survival. The infiltrating levels of resting NK cells, activated natural killer (NK) cells, CD8+ T cells, activated memory CD4+ T cells, and T follicular helper cells, were significantly higher in the group with lower risk scores. The group with higher risk scores showed predominant infiltration by regulatory T cells (Tregs). Conclusion: We successfully identified three signature genes related to invasiveness and constructed a nomogram of bladder cancer with acceptable performance. Differences suggested by risk scores between groups of patients showing diverse patterns of immune cell infiltration may be beneficial for selecting therapeutic approaches and predicting prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang He
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongxin Wu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Boping Li
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Abai Xu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Kashgar Prefecture, Kashgar, China
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218
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Song H, Song J, Cheng M, Zheng M, Wang T, Tian S, Flavell RA, Zhu S, Li HB, Ding C, Wei H, Sun R, Peng H, Tian Z. METTL3-mediated m 6A RNA methylation promotes the anti-tumour immunity of natural killer cells. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5522. [PMID: 34535671 PMCID: PMC8448775 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25803-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells exert critical roles in anti-tumor immunity but how their functions are regulated by epitranscriptional modification (e.g., N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation) is unclear. Here we report decreased expression of the m6A "writer" METTL3 in tumor-infiltrating NK cells, and a positive correlation between protein expression levels of METTL3 and effector molecules in NK cells. Deletion of Mettl3 in NK cells alters the homeostasis of NK cells and inhibits NK cell infiltration and function in the tumor microenvironment, leading to accelerated tumor development and shortened survival in mice. The gene encoding SHP-2 is m6A modified, and its protein expression is decreased in METTL3-deficient NK cells. Reduced SHP-2 activity renders NK cells hyporesponsive to IL-15, which is associated with suppressed activation of the AKT and MAPK signaling pathway in METTL3-deficient NK cells. These findings show that m6A methylation safeguards the homeostasis and tumor immunosurveillance function of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Song
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Jiaxi Song
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Ming Cheng
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Meijuan Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
| | - Tian Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Sha Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Richard A Flavell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Shu Zhu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Hua-Bing Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Chen Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Hui Peng
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
- Research Unit of NK Cell Study, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China.
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219
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Fiore PF, Di Matteo S, Tumino N, Mariotti FR, Pietra G, Ottonello S, Negrini S, Bottazzi B, Moretta L, Mortier E, Azzarone B. Interleukin-15 and cancer: some solved and many unsolved questions. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-001428. [PMID: 33203664 PMCID: PMC7674108 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Soluble interleukin (IL)-15 exists under two forms: as monomer (sIL-15) or as heterodimeric complex in association with sIL-15Rα (sIL-15/IL-15Rα). Both forms have been successfully tested in experimental tumor murine models and are currently undergoing investigation in phase I/II clinical trials. Despite more than 20 years research on IL-15, some controversial issues remain to be addressed. A first point concerns the detection of the sIL-15/IL-15Rα in plasma of healthy donors or patients with cancer and its biological significance. The second and third unsolved question regards the protumorigenic role of the IL-15/IL-15Rα complex in human cancer and the detrimental immunological consequences associated to prolonged exposure of natural killer (NK) cells to both forms of soluble IL-15, respectively. Data suggest that in vivo prolonged or repeated exposure to monomeric sIL-15 or the soluble complex may lead to NK hypo-responsiveness through the expansion of the CD8+/CD44+ T cell subset that would suppress NK cell functions. In vitro experiments indicate that soluble complex and monomeric IL-15 may cause NK hyporesponsiveness through a direct effect caused by their prolonged stimulation, suggesting that this mechanism could also be effective in vivo. Therefore, a better knowledge of IL-15 and a more appropriate use of both its soluble forms, in terms of concentrations and time of exposure, are essential in order to improve their therapeutic use. In cancer, the overproduction of sIL-15/IL-15Rα could represent a novel mechanism of immune escape. The soluble complex may act as a decoy cytokine unable to efficiently foster NK cells, or could induce NK hyporesponsiveness through an excessive and prolonged stimulation depending on the type of IL-15Rα isoforms associated. All these unsolved questions are not merely limited to the knowledge of IL-15 pathophysiology, but are crucial also for the therapeutic use of this cytokine. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss key unanswered issues on the heterogeneity and biological significance of IL-15 isoforms, analyzing both their cancer-related biological functions and their therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Pietra
- Immuology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Selene Ottonello
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Barbara Bottazzi
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Erwan Mortier
- University of Nantes, CNRS, Inserm, CRCINA, University of Nantes, Nantes, France .,Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology, LabEx IGO, Nantes, France
| | - Bruno Azzarone
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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220
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Song AY, Kim H, Kim JM, Hwang SH, Ko DH, Kim HS. Bispecific Antibody Designed for Targeted NK Cell Activation and Functional Assessment for Biomedical Applications. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:42370-42381. [PMID: 34486371 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c08986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells serve as key innate effectors and their activity has been considered a prognostic biomarker in diverse human diseases. Currently, NK cell functional assays have several problems primarily related to adequate preparation, labeling, or treatment of target cells, which are cumbersome and often hamper consistent sensitivity for NK cells. Here, bispecific antibodies (BsAb's) targeting NKG2D and 2B4 receptors, whose combination mounts selective cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production of NK cells, are developed as acellular, consistent, and easy-to-use strategies for assessing NK cell functions. These NK cell activator BsAb's (NKABs) are constructed in symmetric dual bivalent formats with different interdomain spacings [immunoglobulin G (IgG)-single-chain variable fragment (scFv) and dual-variable domain (DVD)-Ig] and kappa constant (Cκ)-scFv format linking two scFv's with a Cκ domain. These NKABs are specific and superior to a combination of monospecific antibodies for NK cell activation. NKAB elicits both direct cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production via integration of NKG2D and 2B4 signals. Moreover, stimulation with NKAB IgG-scFv and Cκ-scFv reveals defective NK cell functions in X-linked lymphoproliferative disease involving 2B4 dysfunction in NK cells and multiple myeloma in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and whole blood, respectively. Hence, this work provides a proof of concept that NKAB facilitates the reliable and comprehensive measurement of NK cell function in clinical settings for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ah-Young Song
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyori Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Min Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyun Hwang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Ko
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Sik Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center (SCIRC), University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
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221
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Huang J, Song P, Hang K, Chen Z, Zhu Z, Zhang Y, Xu J, Qin J, Wang B, Qu W, Huang Z, Liang C. Sleep Deprivation Disturbs Immune Surveillance and Promotes the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2021; 12:727959. [PMID: 34539666 PMCID: PMC8446513 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.727959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is common in patients with cancer and is associated with poor prognosis. However, the effects of sleep deprivation (SD) on immune surveillance during the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HC) and the underlying mechanisms are not known. This was investigated in the present study using mouse models of SD and tumorigenesis. We determined that acute and chronic sleep deprivation (CSD) altered the relative proportions of various immune cell types in blood and peripheral organs. CSD increased tumor volume and weight, an effect that was enhanced with increasing CSD time. Expression of the cell proliferation marker Ki-67 was elevated in tumor tissues, and tumor cell infiltration into adjacent muscles was enhanced by CSD. Multicolor flow cytometry analysis revealed that CSD significantly reduced the numbers of antitumor CD3+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells and increased that of immunosuppressive CD11b+ cells infiltrating into the tumor microenvironment from the spleen via the peripheral blood. These results indicate that CSD impairs immune surveillance mechanisms and promotes immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment to accelerate tumor growth, underscoring the importance of alleviating sleep disturbance in HC patients in order to prevent HC progression.
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MESH Headings
- Acute Disease
- Animals
- CD11b Antigen/metabolism
- CD3 Complex/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement
- Cell Proliferation
- Chronic Disease
- Disease Models, Animal
- Disease Progression
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Lymph Nodes/immunology
- Lymph Nodes/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Sleep Deprivation/immunology
- Spleen/immunology
- Spleen/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Time Factors
- Tumor Burden
- Tumor Escape
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiwen Song
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaibin Hang
- Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center of People’s Liberation Army, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeka Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education (MOE) Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zidan Zhu
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuye Zhang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jietian Xu
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Qin
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Binghua Wang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weimin Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education (MOE) Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhili Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education (MOE) Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunmin Liang
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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222
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Gonzalez VD, Huang YW, Delgado-Gonzalez A, Chen SY, Donoso K, Sachs K, Gentles AJ, Allard GM, Kolahi KS, Howitt BE, Porpiglia E, Fantl WJ. High-grade serous ovarian tumor cells modulate NK cell function to create an immune-tolerant microenvironment. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109632. [PMID: 34469729 PMCID: PMC8546503 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tubo-ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is unresponsive to immune checkpoint blockade despite significant frequencies of exhausted T cells. Here we apply mass cytometry and uncover decidual-like natural killer (dl-NK) cell subpopulations (CD56+CD9+CXCR3+KIR+CD3-CD16-) in newly diagnosed HGSC samples that correlate with both tumor and transitioning epithelial-mesenchymal cell abundance. We show different combinatorial expression patterns of ligands for activating and inhibitory NK receptors within three HGSC tumor compartments: epithelial (E), transitioning epithelial-mesenchymal (EV), and mesenchymal (vimentin expressing [V]), with a more inhibitory ligand phenotype in V cells. In cocultures, NK-92 natural killer cells acquire CD9 from HGSC tumor cells by trogocytosis, resulting in reduced anti-tumor cytokine production and cytotoxicity. Cytotoxicity in these cocultures is restored with a CD9-blocking antibody or CD9 CRISPR knockout, thereby identifying mechanisms of immune suppression in HGSC. CD9 is widely expressed in HGSC tumors and so represents an important new therapeutic target with immediate relevance for NK immunotherapy.
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MESH Headings
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Carboplatin/pharmacology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Coculture Techniques
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Female
- Humans
- Immune Tolerance/drug effects
- Killer Cells, Natural/drug effects
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/drug effects
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/drug therapy
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/immunology
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/metabolism
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/pathology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Ovarian Neoplasms/immunology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/metabolism
- Ovarian Neoplasms/pathology
- Phenotype
- Receptors, Natural Killer Cell/metabolism
- Tetraspanin 29/metabolism
- Trogocytosis
- Tumor Escape/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica D Gonzalez
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ying-Wen Huang
- Department of Urology Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Shih-Yu Chen
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kenyi Donoso
- Department of Urology Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karen Sachs
- Next Generation Analytics, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA
| | - Andrew J Gentles
- Department of Medicine (Quantitative Sciences Unit, Biomedical Informatics) Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Grace M Allard
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kevin S Kolahi
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Brooke E Howitt
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ermelinda Porpiglia
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Wendy J Fantl
- Department of Urology Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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223
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NK Cells in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN). Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174400. [PMID: 34503210 PMCID: PMC8431564 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary NK cells are important innate immune effectors that contribute substantially to tumor control, however the role of NK cells in haematological cancers is not as well understood. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of the role of NK cells in the management of Ph+ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, and emphasize the need and possible benefits of a more in-depth investigation into their role in classical MPNs and show potential strategies to harness the anti-tumoral capacities of NK cells. Abstract Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) comprise a heterogenous group of hematologic neoplasms which are divided into Philadelphia positive (Ph+), and Philadelphia negative (Ph−) or classical MPNs. A variety of immunological factors including inflammatory, as well as immunomodulatory processes, closely interact with the disease phenotypes in MPNs. NK cells are important innate immune effectors and substantially contribute to tumor control. Changes to the absolute and proportionate numbers of NK cell, as well as phenotypical and functional alterations are seen in MPNs. In addition to the disease itself, a variety of therapeutic options in MPNs may modify NK cell characteristics. Reports of suppressive effects of MPN treatment strategies on NK cell activity have led to intensive investigations into the respective compounds, to elucidate the possible negative effects of MPN therapy on control of the leukemic clones. We hereby review the available literature on NK cells in Ph+ and Ph− MPNs and summarize today’s knowledge on disease-related alterations in this cell compartment with particular focus on known therapy-associated changes. Furthermore, we critically evaluate conflicting data with possible implications for future projects. We also aim to highlight the relevance of full NK cell functionality for disease control in MPNs and the importance of considering specific changes related to therapy in order to avoid suppressive effects on immune surveillance.
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224
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Li Y, Harunori O, Fu S, Xing F, Wu H, Wang J, Chen A, Ren X, Peng D, Ling X, Shi M, Wu H. Immune normalization strategy against suboptimal health status: safe and efficacious therapy using mixed-natural killer cells. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:20131-20148. [PMID: 34461606 PMCID: PMC8436936 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
"Immune normalization" has emerged as a new paradigm in immunotherapy, which is proposed in cancer patients instead of conventional "immune-enhancement" therapy. Immune normalization may also be implemented in cancer prevention of "sub-healthy" individuals. We established in vitro cultured mixed-natural killer (NKM) cells to achieve immune normalization. The in vitro cytotoxicity of NKM cells was tenfold higher than that of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The cytotoxicity of NKM cells was negatively correlated with the proportion of T-helper cells (cluster of differentiation: CD3+CD4+ T), and positively correlated with the proportion of NK cells (especially CD56brightCD16bright NK cells). Then, we defined "sub-healthy individuals" after measuring Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) expression in PBMCs from 95 donors aged > 50 years. Furthermore, we evaluated the potential clinical application of NKM-cell therapy in 11 patients with malignant lymphoma, one patient with pancreatic cancer, and four sub-healthy individuals. NKM-cell therapy elicited good tolerance and side-effects were not found. In sub-healthy individuals, the proportion of CD3+PD-1+ T cells and CD3+CD8+PD-1+ T cells was reduced significantly after NKM-cell treatment. We demonstrated that a new method using NKM cells was safe and efficacious as adjuvant treatment for cancer patients as well as therapy for sub-healthy individuals. Normalization of the peripheral immune system through NKM-cell therapy could expand its scope of application in different disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Oda Harunori
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China.,Medical Corporation ISHIN-KAI ODA Clinic, Shinjuku-ku 169-0072, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shihu Fu
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Fuyuan Xing
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Huawan Wu
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Juan Wang
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Aihua Chen
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Xinhua Ren
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Dawei Peng
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
| | - Xia Ling
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China.,Medical Corporation ISHIN-KAI ODA Clinic, Shinjuku-ku 169-0072, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ming Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hongjin Wu
- International Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, BOAO International Hospital, Qionghai 571434, Hainan, China
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225
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Brandetti E, Focaccetti C, Pezzolo A, Ognibene M, Folgiero V, Cotugno N, Benvenuto M, Palma P, Manzari V, Rossi P, Fruci D, Bei R, Cifaldi L. Enhancement of Neuroblastoma NK-Cell-Mediated Lysis through NF-kB p65 Subunit-Induced Expression of FAS and PVR, the Loss of Which Is Associated with Poor Patient Outcome. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174368. [PMID: 34503178 PMCID: PMC8430542 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroblastoma (NB) cells adopt several molecular strategies to evade the Natural Killer (NK)-mediated response. Herein, we found that the overexpression of the NF-kB p65 subunit in NB cell lines upregulates the expression of both the death receptor FAS and the activating ligand PVR, thus rendering NB cells more susceptible to NK-cell-mediated apoptosis, recognition, and killing. These data could provide a clue for a novel NK-cell-based immunotherapy of NB. In addition, array CGH analysis performed in our cohort of NB patients showed that loss of both the FAS and PVR genes correlated with low survival, thus revealing a novel biomarker predicting the outcome of NB patients. Abstract High-risk neuroblastoma (NB) is a rare childhood cancer whose aggressiveness is due to a variety of chromosomal genetic aberrations, including those conferring immune evasion. Indeed, NB cells adopt several molecular strategies to evade recognition by the immune system, including the downregulation of ligands for NK-cell-activating receptors. To date, while molecular strategies aimed at enhancing the expression of ligands for NKG2D- and DNAM-1-activating receptors have been explored, no evidence has been reported on the immunomodulatory mechanisms acting on the expression of death receptors such as Fas in NB cells. Here, we demonstrated that transient overexpression of the NF-kB p65 subunit upregulates the surface expression of Fas and PVR, the ligand of DNAM-1, thus making NB cell lines significantly more susceptible to NK-cell-mediated apoptosis, recognition, and killing. In contrast, IFNγ and TNFα treatment, although it induced the upregulation of FAS in NB cells and consequently enhanced NK-cell-mediated apoptosis, triggered immune evasion processes, including the strong upregulation of MHC class I and IDO1, both of which are involved in mechanisms leading to the impairment of a proper NK-cell-mediated killing of NB. In addition, high-resolution array CGH analysis performed in our cohort of NB patients revealed that the loss of FAS and/or PVR genes correlated with low survival independently of the disease stage. Our data identify the status of the FAS and PVR genes as prognostic biomarkers of NB that may predict the efficacy of NK-cell-based immunotherapy of NB. Overall, restoration of surface expression of Fas and PVR, through transient upregulation of NF-kB, may be a clue to a novel NK-cell-based immunotherapy of NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Brandetti
- Academic Department of Pediatrics (DPUO), Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Chiara Focaccetti
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (R.B.)
| | | | - Marzia Ognibene
- U.O.C. Genetica Medica, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Valentina Folgiero
- Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (V.F.); (D.F.)
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, DPUO, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (N.C.); (P.P.)
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (R.B.)
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, DPUO, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (N.C.); (P.P.)
| | - Vittorio Manzari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (R.B.)
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Academic Department of Pediatrics (DPUO), Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Doriana Fruci
- Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (V.F.); (D.F.)
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (R.B.)
| | - Loredana Cifaldi
- Academic Department of Pediatrics (DPUO), Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (P.R.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-72596520
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226
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Qi J, Crinier A, Escalière B, Ye Y, Wang Z, Zhang T, Batista L, Liu H, Hong L, Wu N, Zhang M, Chen L, Liu Y, Shen L, Narni-Mancinelli E, Vivier E, Su B. Single-cell transcriptomic landscape reveals tumor specific innate lymphoid cells associated with colorectal cancer progression. CELL REPORTS MEDICINE 2021; 2:100353. [PMID: 34467243 PMCID: PMC8385246 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are tissue-resident lymphocytes differing from conventional T lymphocytes in having no antigen-specific receptors. ILCs include natural killer (NK) cells, helper-like ILC1s, ILC2s, and ILC3s, and lymphoid tissue-inducer (LTi) cells. Tumor ILCs are frequently found in various cancers, but their roles in cancer immunity and immunotherapy remain largely unclear. We report here the single-cell characterization of blood and gut helper-like ILC subsets in healthy conditions and in colorectal cancer (CRC). The healthy gut contains ILC1s, ILC3s, and ILC3/NKs, but no ILC2s. Additional tumor-specific ILC1-like and ILC2 subsets were identified in CRC patients. Signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family member 1 (SLAMF1) was found to be selectively expressed on tumor-specific ILCs, and higher levels of SLAMF1+ ILCs were observed in the blood of CRC patients. The SLAMF1-high group of CRC patients had a significantly higher survival rate than the SLAMF1-low group, suggesting that SLAMF1 is an anti-tumor biomarker in CRC. Healthy gut contains ILC1s, ILC3s, and ILC3/NKs, but no ILC2s Blood and tumor ILCs from CRC patients have unique transcriptomic features Tumor tissue from CRC patients contains a tumor specific ILC1-like subset and ILC2s SLAMF1 is identified as an anti-tumor biomarker in CRC
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Qi
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Adeline Crinier
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Bertrand Escalière
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Youqiong Ye
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhengting Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Tianyu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Luciana Batista
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Hongzhi Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Liwen Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ningbo Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mingnan Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yingbin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei Shen
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Eric Vivier
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France.,Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, 13009 Marseille, France.,Immunology, Marseille Immunopole, Hôpital de la Timone, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Bing Su
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Death and Differentiation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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227
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Ahluwalia P, Ahluwalia M, Mondal AK, Sahajpal NS, Kota V, Rojiani MV, Kolhe R. Natural Killer Cells and Dendritic Cells: Expanding Clinical Relevance in the Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164037. [PMID: 34439191 PMCID: PMC8394984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a major subtype of lung cancer that accounts for almost 85% of lung cancer cases worldwide. Although recent advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy have helped in the clinical management of these patients, the survival rate in advanced stages remains dismal. Furthermore, there is a critical lack of accurate prognostic and stratification markers for emerging immunotherapies. To harness immune response modalities for therapeutic benefits, a detailed understanding of the immune cells in the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) is required. Among the diverse immune cells, natural killer (NK cells) and dendritic cells (DCs) have generated tremendous interest in the scientific community. NK cells play a critical role in tumor immunosurveillance by directly killing malignant cells. DCs link innate and adaptive immune systems by cross-presenting the antigens to T cells. The presence of an immunosuppressive milieu in tumors can lead to inactivation and poor functioning of NK cells and DCs, which results in an adverse outcome for many cancer patients, including those with NSCLC. Recently, clinical intervention using modified NK cells and DCs have shown encouraging response in advanced NSCLC patients. Herein, we will discuss prognostic and predictive aspects of NK cells and DC cells with an emphasis on NSCLC. Additionally, the discussion will extend to potential strategies that seek to enhance the anti-tumor functionality of NK cells and DCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Ahluwalia
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Meenakshi Ahluwalia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Ashis K. Mondal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Nikhil S. Sahajpal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Vamsi Kota
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Mumtaz V. Rojiani
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Ravindra Kolhe
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-706-721-2771; Fax: +1-706-434-6053
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228
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Davis-Marcisak EF, Fitzgerald AA, Kessler MD, Danilova L, Jaffee EM, Zaidi N, Weiner LM, Fertig EJ. Transfer learning between preclinical models and human tumors identifies a conserved NK cell activation signature in anti-CTLA-4 responsive tumors. Genome Med 2021; 13:129. [PMID: 34376232 PMCID: PMC8356429 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-021-00944-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor response to therapy is affected by both the cell types and the cell states present in the tumor microenvironment. This is true for many cancer treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). While it is well-established that ICIs promote T cell activation, their broader impact on other intratumoral immune cells is unclear; this information is needed to identify new mechanisms of action and improve ICI efficacy. Many preclinical studies have begun using single-cell analysis to delineate therapeutic responses in individual immune cell types within tumors. One major limitation to this approach is that therapeutic mechanisms identified in preclinical models have failed to fully translate to human disease, restraining efforts to improve ICI efficacy in translational research. METHOD We previously developed a computational transfer learning approach called projectR to identify shared biology between independent high-throughput single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets. In the present study, we test this algorithm's ability to identify conserved and clinically relevant transcriptional changes in complex tumor scRNA-seq data and expand its application to the comparison of scRNA-seq datasets with additional data types such as bulk RNA-seq and mass cytometry. RESULTS We found a conserved signature of NK cell activation in anti-CTLA-4 responsive mouse and human tumors. In human metastatic melanoma, we found that the NK cell activation signature associates with longer overall survival and is predictive of anti-CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) response. Additional molecular approaches to confirm the computational findings demonstrated that human NK cells express CTLA-4 and bind anti-CTLA-4 antibodies independent of the antibody binding receptor (FcR) and that similar to T cells, CTLA-4 expression by NK cells is modified by cytokine-mediated and target cell-mediated NK cell activation. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate a novel application of our transfer learning approach, which was able to identify cell state transitions conserved in preclinical models and human tumors. This approach can be adapted to explore many questions in cancer therapeutics, enhance translational research, and enable better understanding and treatment of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Davis-Marcisak
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of the Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Allison A Fitzgerald
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael D Kessler
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ludmila Danilova
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Jaffee
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Neeha Zaidi
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Louis M Weiner
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Elana J Fertig
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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229
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Chen H, Chengalvala V, Hu H, Sun D. Tumor-derived exosomes: Nanovesicles made by cancer cells to promote cancer metastasis. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:2136-2149. [PMID: 34522581 PMCID: PMC8424275 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine usually refers to nanoparticles that deliver the functional drugs and siRNAs to treat cancer. Recent research has suggested that cancer cells can also make nanoparticles that also deliver functional molecules in promoting cancer metastasis, which is the leading cause of various cancer mortalities. This nanoparticle is called tumor-derived vesicles, or better-known as tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs). TEXs are nanoscale membrane vesicles (30-140 nm) that are released continuously by various types of cancer cells and contain tumor-derived functional biomolecules, including lipids, proteins, and genetic molecules. These endogenous TEXs can interact with host immune cells and epithelial cells locally and systemically. More importantly, they can reprogram the recipient cells in favor of promoting metastasis through facilitating tumor cell local invasion, intravasation, immune evasion, extravasation, and survival and growth in distant organs. Growing evidence suggests that TEXs play a key role in cancer metastasis. Here, we will review the most recent findings of how cancer cells harness TEXs to promote cancer metastasis through modulating vascular permeability, suppressing systemic immune surveillance, and creating metastatic niches. We will also summarize recent research in targeting TEXs to treat cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Venkata Chengalvala
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Hongxiang Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Duxin Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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230
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Veglia F, Sanseviero E, Gabrilovich DI. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the era of increasing myeloid cell diversity. Nat Rev Immunol 2021; 21:485-498. [PMID: 33526920 PMCID: PMC7849958 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-020-00490-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 770] [Impact Index Per Article: 256.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are pathologically activated neutrophils and monocytes with potent immunosuppressive activity. They are implicated in the regulation of immune responses in many pathological conditions and are closely associated with poor clinical outcomes in cancer. Recent studies have indicated key distinctions between MDSCs and classical neutrophils and monocytes, and, in this Review, we discuss new data on the major genomic and metabolic characteristics of MDSCs. We explain how these characteristics shape MDSC function and could facilitate therapeutic targeting of these cells, particularly in cancer and in autoimmune diseases. Additionally, we briefly discuss emerging data on MDSC involvement in pregnancy, neonatal biology and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Veglia
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
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231
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Fuertes MB, Domaica CI, Zwirner NW. Leveraging NKG2D Ligands in Immuno-Oncology. Front Immunol 2021; 12:713158. [PMID: 34394116 PMCID: PMC8358801 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.713158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) revolutionized the field of immuno-oncology and opened new avenues towards the development of novel assets to achieve durable immune control of cancer. Yet, the presence of tumor immune evasion mechanisms represents a challenge for the development of efficient treatment options. Therefore, combination therapies are taking the center of the stage in immuno-oncology. Such combination therapies should boost anti-tumor immune responses and/or target tumor immune escape mechanisms, especially those created by major players in the tumor microenvironment (TME) such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). Natural killer (NK) cells were recently positioned at the forefront of many immunotherapy strategies, and several new approaches are being designed to fully exploit NK cell antitumor potential. One of the most relevant NK cell-activating receptors is NKG2D, a receptor that recognizes 8 different NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL), including MICA and MICB. MICA and MICB are poorly expressed on normal cells but become upregulated on the surface of damaged, transformed or infected cells as a result of post-transcriptional or post-translational mechanisms and intracellular pathways. Their engagement of NKG2D triggers NK cell effector functions. Also, MICA/B are polymorphic and such polymorphism affects functional responses through regulation of their cell-surface expression, intracellular trafficking, shedding of soluble immunosuppressive isoforms, or the affinity of NKG2D interaction. Although immunotherapeutic approaches that target the NKG2D-NKG2DL axis are under investigation, several tumor immune escape mechanisms account for reduced cell surface expression of NKG2DL and contribute to tumor immune escape. Also, NKG2DL polymorphism determines functional NKG2D-dependent responses, thus representing an additional challenge for leveraging NKG2DL in immuno-oncology. In this review, we discuss strategies to boost MICA/B expression and/or inhibit their shedding and propose that combination strategies that target MICA/B with antibodies and strategies aimed at promoting their upregulation on tumor cells or at reprograming TAM into pro-inflammatory macrophages and remodeling of the TME, emerge as frontrunners in immuno-oncology because they may unleash the antitumor effector functions of NK cells and cytotoxic CD8 T cells (CTL). Pursuing several of these pipelines might lead to innovative modalities of immunotherapy for the treatment of a wide range of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Beatriz Fuertes
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Inés Domaica
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norberto Walter Zwirner
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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232
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Dhar P, Basher F, Ji Z, Huang L, Qin S, Wainwright DA, Robinson J, Hagler S, Zhou J, MacKay S, Wu JD. Tumor-derived NKG2D ligand sMIC reprograms NK cells to an inflammatory phenotype through CBM signalosome activation. Commun Biol 2021; 4:905. [PMID: 34294876 PMCID: PMC8298432 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02440-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cell dysfunction is associated with poorer clinical outcome in cancer patients. What regulates NK cell dysfunction in tumor microenvironment is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that the human tumor-derived NKG2D ligand soluble MIC (sMIC) reprograms NK cell to secrete pro-tumorigenic cytokines with diminished cytotoxicity and polyfunctional potential. Antibody clearing sMIC restores NK cell to a normal cytotoxic effector functional state. We discovered that sMIC selectively activates the CBM-signalosome inflammatory pathways in NK cells. Conversely, tumor cell membrane-bound MIC (mMIC) stimulates NK cell cytotoxicity through activating PLC2γ2/SLP-76/Vav1 pathway. Ultimately, antibody targeting sMIC effectuated the in vivo anti-tumor effect of adoptively transferred NK cells. Our findings uncover an unrecognized mechanism that could instruct NK cell to a dysfunctional state in response to cues in the tumor microenvironment. Our findings provide a rationale for co-targeting sMIC to enhance the efficacy of the ongoing NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Dhar
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Fahmin Basher
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zhe Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lei Huang
- Center for Research Informatics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Si Qin
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Derek A Wainwright
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Jing Zhou
- Isoplexis Corporation, Branford, CT, USA
| | | | - Jennifer D Wu
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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233
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Ye L, Huang W, Liu S, Cai S, Hong L, Xiao W, Thiele K, Zeng Y, Song M, Diao L. Impacts of Immunometabolism on Male Reproduction. Front Immunol 2021; 12:658432. [PMID: 34367130 PMCID: PMC8334851 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.658432] [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: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological process of male reproduction relies on the orchestration of neuroendocrine, immune, and energy metabolism. Spermatogenesis is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, which modulates the production of gonadal steroid hormones in the testes. The immune cells and cytokines in testes provide a protective microenvironment for the development and maturation of germ cells. The metabolic cellular responses and processes in testes provide energy production and biosynthetic precursors to regulate germ cell development and control testicular immunity and inflammation. The metabolism of immune cells is crucial for both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, which supposes to affect the spermatogenesis in testes. In this review, the role of immunometabolism in male reproduction will be highlighted. Obesity, metabolic dysfunction, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, are well documented to impact male fertility; thus, their impacts on the immune cells distributed in testes will also be discussed. Finally, the potential significance of the medicine targeting the specific metabolic intermediates or immune metabolism checkpoints to improve male reproduction will also be reassessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Ye
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wensi Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Songchen Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiqiang Xiao
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kristin Thiele
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingzhe Song
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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234
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Yang D, Liu J. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: A New Player in Cancer Metastasis and Therapeutic Target. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:233. [PMID: 34271947 PMCID: PMC8283906 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02013-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) are neutrophil-derived extracellular scaffolds, which typically consist of fibrous decondensed chromatins decorated with histones and granule proteins. Initially discovered as a host defence mechanism of neutrophil against pathogens, they have also been implicated in the progression of sterile inflammation-associated diseases such as autoimmune disease, diabetes, and cancer. In this review, we highlight and discuss the more recent studies on the roles of NETs in cancer development, with a special focus on cancer metastasis. Moreover, we present the strategies for targeting NETs in pre-clinical models, but also the challenging questions that need to be answered in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dakai Yang
- Liver Disease and Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jing Liu
- Microbiology and Immunity Department, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicines, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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235
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Hamilton G, Plangger A. The Impact of NK Cell-Based Therapeutics for the Treatment of Lung Cancer for Biologics: Targets and Therapy. Biologics 2021; 15:265-277. [PMID: 34262255 PMCID: PMC8273903 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s290305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer has a dismal prognosis and novel targeted therapies leave still room for major improvements and better outcomes. Immunotherapy targeting immune checkpoint (IC) proteins, either as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy, is active but responders constitute only approximately 10-15% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Other effector immune cells such as CAR-T cells or NK cells may help to overcome the limitations of the IC inhibitor therapies for lung cancer. NK cells can kill tumor cells without previous priming and are present in the circulatory system and lymphoid organs. Tissue-residing NK cells differ from peripheral effector cells and, in case of the lung, comprise CD56bright CD16-negative populations showing high cytokine release but low cytotoxicity in contrast to the circulating CD56dim CD16-positive NK cells exhibiting high cytotoxic efficacy. This local attenuation of NK cell killing potency seems due to a specific stage of NK differentiation, immunosuppressive factors as well as presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (TREGs). Improved NK cell-based immunotherapies involve IL-2-stimulated effector cells, NK cells expanded with the help of cytokines, permanent NK cell lines, induced pluripotent stem cell-derived NK cells and NK cells armed with chimeric antigen receptors. Compared to CAR T cell therapy, NK cells administration is devoid of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and cytokine-release syndrome. Although NK cells are clearly active against lung cancer cells, the low-cytotoxicity differentiation state in lung tumors, the presence of immunosuppressive leucocyte populations, limited infiltration and adverse conditions of the microenvironment need to be overcome. This goal may be achieved in the future using large numbers of activated and armed NK cells as provided by novel methods in NK cell isolation, expansion and stimulation of cytotoxic activity, including combinations with monoclonal antibodies in antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC). This review discusses the basic characteristics of NK cells and the potential of NK cell preparations in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Hamilton
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Adelina Plangger
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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236
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Ram Kumar PS, Rencilin CF, Sundar K. Emerging nanomaterials for cancer immunotherapy. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2021.00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a unique approach to treat cancer that targets tumours besides triggering the immune cells. It attempts to harness the supremacy and specificity of immune cells for the regression of malignancy. The key strategy of immunotherapy is that it boosts the natural defence and manipulates the immune system at both cellular and molecular levels. Long-lasting anti-tumour response, reduced metastasis, and recurrence can be achieved with immunotherapy than conventional treatments. For example, targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA4) by monoclonal antibody is reported as an effective strategy against cancer progression in vivo and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) modified T-cells are known to express a stronger anti-tumour activity. CTLA4 and CAR are, therefore, beneficial in cancer immunotherapy; however, in clinical settings, both are expensive and cause adverse side effects. Nanomaterials have augmented advantages in cancer immunotherapy, besides their utility in effective delivery and diagnostics. In particular, materials based on lipids, polymers, and metals have been sought-after for delivery technologies. Moreover, the surface of nanomaterials can be engineered using ligands, antigens, and antibodies to target immune cells. In this sense, checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, agonistic antibodies, surface receptors, and engineered T-cells are promising to regulate the immune system against tumours. Therefore, emerging nanomaterials that can be used for the treatment of cancer is the prime focus of this review. The correlation of mode of administration and biodistribution of various nanomaterials is reviewed here. Besides, the acute and chronic side effects and outcome of clinical trials in the context of cancer immunotherapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pandian Sureshbabu Ram Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio and Chemical Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Clayton Fernando Rencilin
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio and Chemical Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Krishnan Sundar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio and Chemical Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
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237
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Angiogenic Properties of NK Cells in Cancer and Other Angiogenesis-Dependent Diseases. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071621. [PMID: 34209508 PMCID: PMC8303392 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of many serious diseases, including cancer, is closely related to disturbances in the angiogenesis process. Angiogenesis is essential for the progression of tumor growth and metastasis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has immunosuppressive properties, which contribute to tumor expansion and angiogenesis. Similarly, the uterine microenvironment (UME) exerts a tolerogenic (immunosuppressive) and proangiogenic effect on its cells, promoting implantation and development of the embryo and placenta. In the TME and UME natural killer (NK) cells, which otherwise are capable of killing target cells autonomously, enter a state of reduced cytotoxicity or anergy. Both TME and UME are rich with factors (e.g., TGF-β, glycodelin, hypoxia), which support a conversion of NK cells to the low/non-cytotoxic, proangiogenic CD56brightCD16low phenotype. It is plausible that the phenomenon of acquiring proangiogenic and low cytotoxic features by NK cells is not only limited to cancer but is a common feature of different angiogenesis-dependent diseases (ADDs). In this review, we will discuss the role of NK cells in angiogenesis disturbances associated with cancer and other selected ADDs. Expanding the knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for angiogenesis and its disorders contributes to a better understanding of ADDs and may have therapeutic implications.
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238
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Mattiola I. Immune Circuits to Shape Natural Killer Cells in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133225. [PMID: 34203391 PMCID: PMC8267947 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Natural killer (NK) cells are circulating innate lymphocytes endowed with antitumoral functions. NK cells are the innate counterpart of effector T cells and among the first cells responding to infections and tumors. In this review, the immune circuits regulating the NK cell antitumoral functions and the possible strategies to shape natural killing in cancer will be discussed. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells playing an important role in anti-cancer immunity. NK cells are efficient in controlling the spreading of metastasis but are not very powerful in fighting against primary tumors. The NK cell capability to infiltrate and persist in the tumor microenvironment and to exert their antitumoral functions is often limited by tumor escape mechanisms. These tumor-mediated strategies not only induce NK cell tolerance but also interfere with the NK cell-dependent immune networking. This review will provide an overview of the tumor escape mechanisms impacting NK cells, identify the immune circuits regulating the NK cell-dependent antitumor immunity and revise the emerging therapeutic approaches to unleash NK cells in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Mattiola
- Laboratory of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Anna-Louisa-Karsch Strasse 2, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Mucosal and Developmental Immunology, Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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239
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Conventional NK cells and tissue-resident ILC1s join forces to control liver metastasis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2026271118. [PMID: 34183415 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2026271118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a major metastatic target organ, and little is known about the role of immunity in controlling hepatic metastases. Here, we discovered that the concerted and nonredundant action of two innate lymphocyte subpopulations, conventional natural killer cells (cNKs) and tissue-resident type I innate lymphoid cells (trILC1s), is essential for antimetastatic defense. Using different preclinical models for liver metastasis, we found that trILC1 controls metastatic seeding, whereas cNKs restrain outgrowth. Whereas the killing capacity of trILC1s was not affected by the metastatic microenvironment, the phenotype and function of cNK cells were affected in a cancer type-specific fashion. Thus, individual cancer cell lines orchestrate the emergence of unique cNK subsets, which respond differently to tumor-derived factors. Our findings will contribute to the development of therapies for liver metastasis involving hepatic innate cells.
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240
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Li Z, Zhang L, Liu FY, Li P, He J, Kirkwood CL, Sohn J, Chan JM, Magner WJ, Kirkwood KL. MKP-1 is required to limit myeloid-cell mediated oral squamous cell carcinoma progression and regional extension. Oral Oncol 2021; 120:105401. [PMID: 34182221 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2021.105401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) require MAPK phosphatases (MKPs) for deactivation of MAPK intracellular signaling. MKP-1 (encoded by Dusp1) is a key negative regulator of MAPKs and prior reports have indicated that MKP-1 regulates oral cancer-associated inflammation and leukocyte infiltration. OBJECTIVE To determine the significance of myeloid-based expression of MKP-1 in oral cancer. METHODS The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used to address DUSP1 expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Syngeneic and carcinogen-induced mouse models using global and myeloid-specific Dusp-1 deficient mice with immunophenotypic, histologic, and transcriptomic analyses and in vitro migration assays. RESULTS Data from TCGA indicates the DUSP1 expression is inversely related to oral cancer burden and nodal involvement. Using murine models of OSCC, the role of MKP-1 signaling in tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) was assessed. Dusp1-deficient mice had increased tumor burden and TAM infiltrate with increased M2 macrophage polarization. Transcriptomic signatures of TAMs from Dusp1-deficent mice indicated a pro-metastatic phenotype as well as concomitant differences in myeloid-associated genes, cytokine/chemokine signaling, and Notch signaling consistent with tumor progression. In vitro and in vivo assays revealed mouse OSCC cells had a higher migration rate using TAM cell-free supernatant from Dusp1 deficiency mice compared to controls with enhanced regional cervical lymph node metastasis, respectively. To validate TAM studies using implantable mouse models, an OSCC progression model with conditional myeloid-specific Dusp-1 deficient mice demonstrated enhanced OSCC disease progression, characterized by advanced onset, histological stage, and tumor burden. CONCLUSION Myeloid-based Dusp1-deficiency increases OSCC burden and metastasis through alteration in TAM recruitment, gene profile, and polarity suggesting that MKP-1 could be a viable target to reprogram TAM to limit local/regional OSCC extension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Li
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Oromaxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China; Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, China, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, China, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fa-Yu Liu
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Oromaxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, China, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,; Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jing He
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Oromaxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - Cameron L Kirkwood
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jiho Sohn
- Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jon M Chan
- Department of Head and Neck/Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - William J Magner
- Department of Head and Neck/Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Keith L Kirkwood
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Head and Neck/Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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241
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Tata A, Dodard G, Fugère C, Leget C, Ors M, Rossi B, Vivier E, Brossay L. Combination blockade of KLRG1 and PD-1 promotes immune control of local and disseminated cancers. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1933808. [PMID: 34188973 PMCID: PMC8208121 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1933808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Checkpoint blockade therapy is effective against many cancers; however, new targets need to be identified to treat patients who do not respond to current treatment or demonstrate immune escape. Here, we showed that blocking the inhibitory receptor Killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) enhances anti-tumor immunity mediated by NK cells and CD8+ T cells. We found that loss of KLRG1 signaling alone significantly decreased melanoma and breast cancer tumor growth in the lungs of mice. In addition, we demonstrated that KLRG1 blockade can synergize with PD-1 checkpoint therapy to increase the therapeutic efficacy compared to either treatment alone. This effect was even observed with tumors that do not respond to PD-1 checkpoint therapy. Double blockade therapy led to significantly decreased tumor size, increased frequency and activation of CD8+ T cells, and increased NK cell frequency and maturation in the tumor microenvironment. These findings demonstrate that KLRG1 is a novel checkpoint inhibitor target that affects NK and T cell anti-tumor immunity, both alone and in conjunction with established immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Tata
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Garvin Dodard
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Céline Fugère
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | | | - Mélody Ors
- Innate Pharma Research Labs., Marseille, France
| | | | - Eric Vivier
- Innate Pharma Research Labs., Marseille, France.,Centre d'Immunologie De Marseille-Luminy, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.,Service d'Immunologie, Hôpital De La Timone, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux De Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Brossay
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Lead Contact
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242
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Bioinformatic Analysis Reveals Central Role for Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells in Uveal Melanoma Progression. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:9920234. [PMID: 34195299 PMCID: PMC8214507 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9920234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating immune cells are capable of effective cancer surveillance, and their abundance is linked to better prognosis in numerous tumor types. However, in uveal melanoma (UM), extensive immune infiltrate is associated with poor survival. This study aims to decipher the role of different tumor-infiltrating cell subsets in UM in order to identify potential targets for future immunotherapeutic treatment. We have chosen the TCGA-UVM cohort as a training dataset and GSE22138 as a testing dataset by mining publicly available databases. The abundance of 22 immune cell types was estimated using CIBERSORTx. Then, to determine the significance of tumor-infiltrating cell subsets in UM, we built a multicell type prognostic signature, which was validated in the testing cohort. The created signature was built upon the negative prognostic role of CD8+ T cells and M0 macrophages and the positive role of neutrophils. Based on the created signature score, we divided the patients into low- and high-risk groups. Kaplan-Meier, Cox, and ROC analyses demonstrated superior performance of our risk score compared to either clinical or pathologic characteristics of both cohorts. Further, we found the molecular pathways associated with cancer immunoevasion and metastasis to be enriched in the high-risk group, explaining both the lack of adequate immune surveillance despite increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells as well as the higher metastatic potential. Genes associated with tryptophan metabolism (IDO1 and KYNU) and metalloproteinases were among the most differentially expressed between the high- and low-risk groups. Our correlation analyses interpreted in context of published in vitro data strongly suggest the central role of CD8+ T cells in shifting the UM tumor microenvironment towards suppressive and metastasis-promoting. Therefore, we propose further investigations of IDO1 and metalloproteinases as novel targets for immunotherapy in lymphocyte-rich metastatic UM patients.
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Ackerman RS, Luddy KA, Icard BE, Piñeiro Fernández J, Gatenby RA, Muncey AR. The Effects of Anesthetics and Perioperative Medications on Immune Function: A Narrative Review. Anesth Analg 2021; 133:676-689. [PMID: 34100781 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000005607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies have sought to better understand the effect of anesthetic agents, both volatile and intravenous, and perioperative adjuvant medications on immune function. The immune system has evolved to incorporate both innate and adaptive components, which are delicately interwoven and essential for host defense from pathogens and malignancy. This review summarizes the complex and nuanced relationship that exists between each anesthetic agent or perioperative adjuvant medication studied and innate and adaptive immune function with resultant clinical implications. The most commonly used anesthetic agents were chosen for review including volatile agents (sevoflurane, isoflurane, desflurane, and halothane), intravenous agents (propofol, ketamine, etomidate, and dexmedetomidine), and perioperative adjuvant medications (benzodiazepines, opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], and local anesthetic agents). Patients who undergo surgery experience varying combinations of the aforementioned anesthetic agents and adjuncts, depending on the type of surgery and their comorbidities. Each has unique effects on immunity, which may be more or less ideal depending on the clinical situation. Further study is needed to better understand the clinical effects of these relationships so that patient-specific strategies can be developed to improve surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Ackerman
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Benjamin E Icard
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Robert A Gatenby
- the Department of Cancer Biology and Evolution.,Department of Radiology
| | - Aaron R Muncey
- Department of Anesthesiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
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Elaraby E, Malek AI, Abdullah HW, Elemam NM, Saber-Ayad M, Talaat IM. Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction in Obese Patients with Breast Cancer: A Review of a Triad and Its Implications. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:9972927. [PMID: 34212054 PMCID: PMC8205589 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9972927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) are a crucial constituent of the innate immune system as they mediate immunity against viruses, bacteria, parasites, and most importantly, tumor cells. The exact mechanism of how the innate immune system and specifically NK cells interact with cancer cells is complex and is yet to be understood. Several factors that constitute the tumor microenvironment (TME) such as hypoxia and TGF-β are believed to play a role in the complex physiological reaction of NK cells to tumor cells. On the other hand, several risk factors are implicated in the development and progression of breast cancer, most importantly: obesity. Cytokines released from adipose tissue such as adipokines, leptin, and resistin, among others, are also believed to facilitate tumor progression. In this study, we aimed to build a triad of breast cancer, obesity, and NK cell dysfunction to elucidate a link between these pillars on a cellular level. Directing efforts towards solidifying the link between these factors will help in designing a targeted immunotherapy with a low side-effect profile that can revolutionize breast cancer treatment and improve survival in obese patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esraa Elaraby
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | | | - Noha Mousaad Elemam
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Maha Saber-Ayad
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Iman M. Talaat
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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245
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Abstract
In this review, Shen and Kang provide an overview of the tumor-intrinsic and microenvironment- and treatment-induced stresses that tumor cells encounter in the metastatic cascade and the molecular pathways they develop to relieve these stresses. Metastasis is the ultimate “survival of the fittest” test for cancer cells, as only a small fraction of disseminated tumor cells can overcome the numerous hurdles they encounter during the transition from the site of origin to a distinctly different distant organ in the face of immune and therapeutic attacks and various other stresses. During cancer progression, tumor cells develop a variety of mechanisms to cope with the stresses they encounter, and acquire the ability to form metastases. Restraining these stress-releasing pathways could serve as potentially effective strategies to prevent or reduce metastasis and improve the survival of cancer patients. Here, we provide an overview of the tumor-intrinsic, microenvironment- and treatment-induced stresses that tumor cells encounter in the metastatic cascade and the molecular pathways they develop to relieve these stresses. We also summarize the preclinical and clinical studies that evaluate the potential therapeutic benefit of targeting these stress-relieving pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhong Shen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
| | - Yibin Kang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
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246
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Hepatic stellate cells suppress NK cell-sustained breast cancer dormancy. Nature 2021; 594:566-571. [PMID: 34079127 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03614-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The persistence of undetectable disseminated tumour cells (DTCs) after primary tumour resection poses a major challenge to effective cancer treatment1-3. These enduring dormant DTCs are seeds of future metastases, and the mechanisms that switch them from dormancy to outgrowth require definition. Because cancer dormancy provides a unique therapeutic window for preventing metastatic disease, a comprehensive understanding of the distribution, composition and dynamics of reservoirs of dormant DTCs is imperative. Here we show that different tissue-specific microenvironments restrain or allow the progression of breast cancer in the liver-a frequent site of metastasis4 that is often associated with a poor prognosis5. Using mouse models, we show that there is a selective increase in natural killer (NK) cells in the dormant milieu. Adjuvant interleukin-15-based immunotherapy ensures an abundant pool of NK cells that sustains dormancy through interferon-γ signalling, thereby preventing hepatic metastases and prolonging survival. Exit from dormancy follows a marked contraction of the NK cell compartment and the concurrent accumulation of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs). Our proteomics studies on liver co-cultures implicate the aHSC-secreted chemokine CXCL12 in the induction of NK cell quiescence through its cognate receptor CXCR4. CXCL12 expression and aHSC abundance are closely correlated in patients with liver metastases. Our data identify the interplay between NK cells and aHSCs as a master switch of cancer dormancy, and suggest that therapies aimed at normalizing the NK cell pool might succeed in preventing metastatic outgrowth.
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Cheng Z, Li M, Dey R, Chen Y. Nanomaterials for cancer therapy: current progress and perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:85. [PMID: 34059100 PMCID: PMC8165984 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01096-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 373] [Impact Index Per Article: 124.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease with complex pathological process. Current chemotherapy faces problems such as lack of specificity, cytotoxicity, induction of multi-drug resistance and stem-like cells growth. Nanomaterials are materials in the nanorange 1–100 nm which possess unique optical, magnetic, and electrical properties. Nanomaterials used in cancer therapy can be classified into several main categories. Targeting cancer cells, tumor microenvironment, and immune system, these nanomaterials have been modified for a wide range of cancer therapies to overcome toxicity and lack of specificity, enhance drug capacity as well as bioavailability. Although the number of studies has been increasing, the number of approved nano-drugs has not increased much over the years. To better improve clinical translation, further research is needed for targeted drug delivery by nano-carriers to reduce toxicity, enhance permeability and retention effects, and minimize the shielding effect of protein corona. This review summarizes novel nanomaterials fabricated in research and clinical use, discusses current limitations and obstacles that hinder the translation from research to clinical use, and provides suggestions for more efficient adoption of nanomaterials in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Cheng
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Maoyu Li
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Raja Dey
- Department of Nucleotide Metabolism and Drug Discovery, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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249
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Chen YJ, Chang JT, You GR, Huang CY, Fan KH, Cheng AJ. Panel biomarkers associated with cancer invasion and prognostic prediction for head-neck cancer. Biomark Med 2021; 15:861-877. [PMID: 34032473 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2021-0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Cell invasion leading to metastasis is a major cause of treatment failure in head-neck cancers (HNCs). Identifying prognostic molecules associated with invasiveness is imperative for clinical applications. Materials & methods: A systemic approach was used to globally survey invasion-related genes, including transcriptomic profiling, pathway analysis, data mining and prognostic assessment using TCGA-HNSC dataset. Results: Six functional pathways and six hub molecules (LAMA3, LAMC2, THBS1, IGF1R, PDGFB and TGFβ1) were identified that significantly contributed to cell invasion, leading to poor survival in HNC patients. Combinations of multiple biomarkers substantially increased the probability of accurately predicting prognosis. Conclusion: Our six defined invasion-related molecules may be used as a panel signature in precision medicine for prognostic indicators or molecular therapeutic targets for HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Ju Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.,International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.,TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Joseph T Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, 33333, Taiwan.,Department of Medical School, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Guo-Rung You
- Department of Medical Biotechnology & Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yu Huang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Kang-Hsing Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, 33333, Taiwan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei City, 236017, Taiwan
| | - Ann-Joy Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, 33333, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Biotechnology & Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
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Peng L, Zhang Y, Wang Z. Immune Responses against Disseminated Tumor Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2515. [PMID: 34063848 PMCID: PMC8196619 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Most cancer-related deaths are a consequence of metastases, a series of linear events, notably the invasion-metastasis cascade. The current understanding of cancer immune surveillance derives from studies in primary tumors, but disseminated cancer cells acquire mutations and, in some cases, appear to progress independently after spreading from primary sites. An early step in this process is micrometastatic dissemination. As such, the equilibrium between the immune system and disseminated cancer cells controls the fate of the cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) exhibit significant clinical activity in patients, but the efficacy of ICIs depends on both the tumor and its microenvironment. Data often suggest that disseminated cancer cells are not adequately targeted by the immune system. In this review, we summarize the main basic findings of immune responses against disseminated tumor cells and their organ-specific characteristics. Such studies may provide new directions for cancer immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Peng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yongchang Zhang
- Lung Cancer and Gastrointestinal Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China;
| | - Zibing Wang
- Department of Immunotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
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