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Mocellin S, Nitti D. CTLA-4 blockade and the renaissance of cancer immunotherapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2013; 1836:187-96. [PMID: 23748107 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2013.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) plays a key role in restraining the adaptive immune response of T-cells towards a variety of antigens including tumor associated antigens (TAAs). The blockade of this immune checkpoint elicits an effective anticancer immune response in a range of preclinical models, suggesting that naturally occurring (or therapeutically induced) TAA specific lymphocytes need to be "unleashed" in order to properly fight against malignant cells. Therefore, investigators have tested this therapeutic hypothesis also in humans: the favorable results obtained with this strategy in patients with advanced cutaneous melanoma are revolutionizing the management of this highly aggressive disease and are fueling new enthusiasm on cancer immunotherapy in general. Here we summarize the biology of CTLA-4, overview the experimental data supporting the rational for targeting CTLA-4 to treat cancer and review the main clinical findings on this novel anticancer approach. Moreover, we critically discuss the current challenges and potential developments of this promising field of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Mocellin
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Italy.
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252
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Graner MW, Romanoski A, Katsanis E. The 'peptidome' of tumour-derived chaperone-rich cell lysate anti-cancer vaccines reveals potential tumour antigens that stimulate tumour immunity. Int J Hyperthermia 2013; 29:380-9. [PMID: 23725202 DOI: 10.3109/02656736.2013.793406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour-derived chaperone-rich cell lysate (CRCL) when isolated from tumour tissue or when embedded with peptide antigens is a potent anti-cancer vaccine consisting of numerous chaperone/heat shock proteins, including the highly immunogenic Hsp70, Hsp90, glucose regulated protein 94, and calreticulin. We have previously documented that CRCL provides both a source of tumour antigens and danger signals triggering antigen presenting cell activation. In this report we describe the 'peptidome' of potential antigens extracted from CRCL prepared from a murine tumour. Using mass spectrometry techniques we identify almost 60 different proteins of origin for the CRCL peptides; we determine that the parental proteins come from essentially all parts of the cell, and are involved in a broad range of functions. Further in silico analysis demonstrates that the parental proteins are components of major signalling networks of vital importance for cancer cell survival, proliferation, and migration. In many instances the peptides identified possess amino acid sequences that would allow their putative binding and display by murine major histocompatibility complex class I and II molecules, and there are also predicted binding motifs for Hsp70-type chaperones. By mixing fractionated pools of peptides with antigen-free (normal liver) CRCL, we were able to reconstitute effective anti-tumour activity of the vaccine, showing that the peptides are indeed the major purveyors of CRCL vaccines' efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Graner
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO 80045, USA.
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253
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Tomita Y, Yuno A, Tsukamoto H, Senju S, Kuroda Y, Hirayama M, Irie A, Kawahara K, Yatsuda J, Hamada A, Jono H, Yoshida K, Tsunoda T, Kohrogi H, Yoshitake Y, Nakamura Y, Shinohara M, Nishimura Y. Identification of promiscuous KIF20A long peptides bearing both CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell epitopes: KIF20A-specific CD4+ T-cell immunity in patients with malignant tumor. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:4508-20. [PMID: 23714729 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify long peptides (LP) derived from a novel tumor-associated antigen (TAA), kinesin family member 20A (KIF20A), which induce tumor-specific T-helper type 1 (TH1) cells and CTLs. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We combined information from a recently developed computer algorithm predicting HLA class II-binding peptides with KIF20A-derived CTL-epitope sequences presented by HLA-A2 (A*02:01) or HLA-A24 (A*24:02) to select candidate promiscuous TH1-cell epitopes containing CTL epitopes. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) derived from healthy donors or patients with head-and-neck malignant tumor (HNMT) were used to study the immunogenicity of KIF20A-LPs, and the in vitro cross-priming potential of KIF20A-LPs bearing CTL epitopes. We used HLA-A24 transgenic mice to address whether vaccination with KIF20A-LP induces efficient cross-priming of CTLs in vivo. The TH1-cell response to KIF20A-LPs in HNMT patients receiving immunotherapy with TAA-derived CTL-epitope peptides was analyzed using IFN-γ enzyme-linked immunospot assays. RESULTS We identified promiscuous KIF20A-LPs bearing naturally processed epitopes recognized by CD4(+) T cells and CTLs. KIF20A-specific CTLs were induced by vaccination with a KIF20A-LP in vivo. KIF20A expression was detected in 55% of HNMT by immunohistochemistry, and significant frequencies of KIF20A-specific TH1 cell responses were detected after short-term in vitro stimulation of PBMCs with KIF20A-LPs in 50% of HNMT patients, but not in healthy donors. Furthermore, these responses were associated with KIF20A expression in HNMT tissues. CONCLUSIONS These are the first results showing the presence of KIF20A-specific TH1 cell responses in HNMT patients and underline the possible utility of KIF20A-LPs for propagation of TH1 cells and CTLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Tomita
- Department of Immunogenetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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254
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Denies S, Sanders NN. Recent progress in canine tumor vaccination: potential applications for human tumor vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2013; 11:1375-86. [PMID: 23249236 DOI: 10.1586/erv.12.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tumor vaccination holds great promise for the treatment of cancer and research concerning tumor vaccination in dogs is of great interest for veterinary as well as human medicine. Indeed, cancer is the leading cause of death in adult dogs and companion animals are acknowledged as excellent preclinical models for human oncology. The license of the veterinary melanoma vaccine (Oncept™) and Provenge® for the treatment of prostate cancer in men established tumor vaccination as a valid treatment modality for cancer. Although the results with this and other vaccines are promising, there are still some hurdles to overcome. In this article, preclinical and clinical trials with tumor vaccines in dogs are discussed, as well as the surplus value of canine cancer patients for human medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Denies
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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255
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Vainer ED, Meir K, Furman M, Semenenko I, Konikoff F, Vainer GW. Characterization of novel CD55 isoforms expression in normal and neoplastic tissues. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 82:26-34. [PMID: 23692281 DOI: 10.1111/tan.12138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Revised: 04/06/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CD55 (decay-accelerating factor, DAF) is overexpressed in several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer. Because of its inhibitory effect on the complement system, it has been suggested as a possible target for cancer immunotherapy. However, CD55 is also expressed in normal tissues, body fluids and stroma, limiting the use of anti-CD55 therapeutic antibodies. Two novel CD55 splice variants or isoforms have recently been identified. These have been shown to contain part or all of intron 7 (CD55(int7+)), in contrast to the previously identified splice variants (CD55(wt)), which do not contain intron 7. Our aim was to determine the pattern of expression of the CD55(int7+) isoforms in normal and cancer tissues and to compare it to CD55(wt). We found that while CD55's isoforms levels vary directly, CD55(wt) is much more abundant (on average 48 times more) than CD55(int7+). Moreover, colon cancers that express high CD55(wt) mRNA levels tend to upregulate CD55(int7+) to a further extent. Finally, we compared the protein levels of CD55(int7+) to CD55(wt) by immunohistochemistry in various colorectal pathological conditions including neoplasia, and found that the levels of both isoforms were elevated in all types of colonic pathology. These results show that the levels of CD55(int7+) in normal tissue are much lower than CD55(wt), while in tumors it is restricted to the epithelial structures unlike CD55(wt). Thus, CD55(int7+) may be a more suitable target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- E D Vainer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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256
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Lesterhuis WJ, Salmons J, Nowak AK, Rozali EN, Khong A, Dick IM, Harken JA, Robinson BW, Lake RA. Synergistic effect of CTLA-4 blockade and cancer chemotherapy in the induction of anti-tumor immunity. PLoS One 2013. [PMID: 23626745 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061895.s009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several chemotherapeutics exert immunomodulatory effects. One of these is the nucleoside analogue gemcitabine, which is widely used in patients with lung cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, mesothelioma and several other types of cancer, but with limited efficacy. We hypothesized that the immunopotentiating effects of this drug are partly restrained by the inhibitory T cell molecule CTLA-4 and thus could be augmented by combining it with a blocking antibody against CTLA-4, which on its own has recently shown beneficial clinical effects in the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma. Here we show, using two non-immunogenic murine tumor models, that treatment with gemcitabine chemotherapy in combination with CTLA-4 blockade results in the induction of a potent anti-tumor immune response. Depletion experiments demonstrated that both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells are required for optimal therapeutic effect. Mice treated with the combination exhibited tumor regression and long-term protective immunity. In addition, we show that the efficacy of the combination is moderated by the timing of administration of the two agents. Our results show that immune checkpoint blockade and cytotoxic chemotherapy can have a synergistic effect in the treatment of cancer. These results provide a basis to pursue combination therapies with anti-CTLA-4 and immunopotentiating chemotherapy and have important implications for future studies in cancer patients. Since both drugs are approved for use in patients our data can be immediately translated into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Joost Lesterhuis
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia
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257
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Lesterhuis WJ, Salmons J, Nowak AK, Rozali EN, Khong A, Dick IM, Harken JA, Robinson BW, Lake RA. Synergistic effect of CTLA-4 blockade and cancer chemotherapy in the induction of anti-tumor immunity. PLoS One 2013; 8:e61895. [PMID: 23626745 PMCID: PMC3633941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several chemotherapeutics exert immunomodulatory effects. One of these is the nucleoside analogue gemcitabine, which is widely used in patients with lung cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, mesothelioma and several other types of cancer, but with limited efficacy. We hypothesized that the immunopotentiating effects of this drug are partly restrained by the inhibitory T cell molecule CTLA-4 and thus could be augmented by combining it with a blocking antibody against CTLA-4, which on its own has recently shown beneficial clinical effects in the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma. Here we show, using two non-immunogenic murine tumor models, that treatment with gemcitabine chemotherapy in combination with CTLA-4 blockade results in the induction of a potent anti-tumor immune response. Depletion experiments demonstrated that both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are required for optimal therapeutic effect. Mice treated with the combination exhibited tumor regression and long-term protective immunity. In addition, we show that the efficacy of the combination is moderated by the timing of administration of the two agents. Our results show that immune checkpoint blockade and cytotoxic chemotherapy can have a synergistic effect in the treatment of cancer. These results provide a basis to pursue combination therapies with anti-CTLA-4 and immunopotentiating chemotherapy and have important implications for future studies in cancer patients. Since both drugs are approved for use in patients our data can be immediately translated into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Joost Lesterhuis
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne Salmons
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anna K. Nowak
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Esdy N. Rozali
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrea Khong
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ian M. Dick
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Julie A. Harken
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Bruce W. Robinson
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard A. Lake
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA, Australia and Tumour Immunology Group, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- * E-mail:
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258
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Silva JM, Videira M, Gaspar R, Préat V, Florindo HF. Immune system targeting by biodegradable nanoparticles for cancer vaccines. J Control Release 2013; 168:179-99. [PMID: 23524187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2013.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The concept of therapeutic cancer vaccines is based on the activation of the immune system against tumor cells after the presentation of tumor antigens. Nanoparticles (NPs) have shown great potential as delivery systems for cancer vaccines as they potentiate the co-delivery of tumor-associated antigens and adjuvants to dendritic cells (DCs), insuring effective activation of the immune system against tumor cells. In this review, the immunological mechanisms behind cancer vaccines, including the role of DCs in the stimulation of T lymphocytes and the use of Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands as adjuvants will be discussed. An overview of each of the three essential components of a therapeutic cancer vaccine - antigen, adjuvant and delivery system - will be provided with special emphasis on the potential of particulate delivery systems for cancer vaccines, in particular those made of biodegradable aliphatic polyesters, such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL). Some of the factors that can influence NP uptake by DCs, including size, surface charge, surface functionalization and route of administration, will also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana M Silva
- iMed.UL, Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
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259
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Feichtinger J, Aldeailej I, Anderson R, Almutairi M, Almatrafi A, Alsiwiehri N, Griffiths K, Stuart N, Wakeman JA, Larcombe L, McFarlane RJ. Meta-analysis of clinical data using human meiotic genes identifies a novel cohort of highly restricted cancer-specific marker genes. Oncotarget 2013; 3:843-53. [PMID: 22918178 PMCID: PMC3478461 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying cancer-specific biomarkers represents an ongoing challenge to the development of novel cancer diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic strategies. Cancer/testis (CT) genes are an important gene family with expression tightly restricted to the testis in normal individuals but which can also be activated in cancers. Here we develop a pipeline to identify new CT genes. We analysed and validated expression profiles of human meiotic genes in normal and cancerous tissue followed by meta-analyses of clinical data sets from a range of tumour types resulting in the identification of a large cohort of highly specific cancer biomarker genes, including the recombination hot spot activator PRDM9 and the meiotic cohesin genes SMC1beta and RAD21L. These genes not only provide excellent cancer biomarkers for diagnostics and prognostics, but may serve as oncogenes and have excellent drug targeting potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Feichtinger
- North West Cancer Research Fund Institute, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2UW, UK
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260
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Lad DP, Malhotra P, Varma S. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia: inception to cure: are we there? Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2013; 29:1-10. [PMID: 24426325 PMCID: PMC3572254 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-012-0192-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been remarkable advances in our understanding of the biology and therapeutics of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. B cell receptor signaling and micro-environment in CLL biology have been the most modern areas of research. In CLL therapeutics, we have come a long way from alkylating agents to chemo-immunotherapy. Despite this there remain significant lacunae in the disease biology that has hindered our quest to achieve the ultimate in CLL: Cure. This review aims to summarize the past, present and future in the biology and treatment of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepesh P. Lad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Pankaj Malhotra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Subhash Varma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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261
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Wang M, Yin B, Matsueda S, Deng L, Li Y, Zhao W, Zou J, Li Q, Loo C, Wang RF, Wang HY. Identification of special AT-rich sequence binding protein 1 as a novel tumor antigen recognized by CD8+ T cells: implication for cancer immunotherapy. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56730. [PMID: 23437226 PMCID: PMC3578933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Accepted: 01/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large number of human tumor-associated antigens that are recognized by CD8(+) T cells in a human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I)-restricted fashion have been identified. Special AT-rich sequence binding protein 1 (SATB1) is highly expressed in many types of human cancers as part of their neoplastic phenotype, and up-regulation of SATB1 expression is essential for tumor survival and metastasis, thus this protein may serve as a rational target for cancer vaccines. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Twelve SATB1-derived peptides were predicted by an immuno-informatics approach based on the HLA-A*02 binding motif. These peptides were examined for their ability to induce peptide-specific T cell responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from HLA-A*02(+) healthy donors and/or HLA-A*02(+) cancer patients. The recognition of HLA-A*02(+) SATB1-expressing cancer cells was also tested. Among the twelve SATB1-derived peptides, SATB1(565-574) frequently induced peptide-specific T cell responses in PBMCs from both healthy donors and cancer patients. Importantly, SATB1(565-574)-specific T cells recognized and killed HLA-A*02(+) SATB1(+) cancer cells in an HLA-I-restricted manner. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE We have identified a novel HLA-A*02-restricted SATB1-derived peptide epitope recognized by CD8(+) T cells, which, in turn, recognizes and kills HLA-A*02(+) SATB1(+) tumor cells. The SATB1-derived epitope identified may be used as a diagnostic marker as well as an immune target for development of cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjun Wang
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Bingnan Yin
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Satoko Matsueda
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lijuan Deng
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ying Li
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Wei Zhao
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jia Zou
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Qingtian Li
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Christopher Loo
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Rong-Fu Wang
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Helen Y. Wang
- Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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262
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Kareva I, Hahnfeldt P. The emerging "hallmarks" of metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion: distinct or linked? Cancer Res 2013; 73:2737-42. [PMID: 23423980 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-12-3696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The role of the immune system in tumor elimination has been shown to be increasingly ambiguous, as many tumors not only escape recognition by the adaptive immune response but also even prime the immune cells to promote tumor growth. This effect is achieved through a number of mechanisms, which include both direct interference with the cells of the adaptive immune response and indirect immunosuppression achieved through modification of the tumor microenvironment. We propose that through upregulation of glycolysis and the consequent lowering of pH in the tumor microenvironment, tumors can take advantage of a pH control system, already exploited by specific immune cell subpopulations, to gain control of the immune system and suppress both cytotoxic and antigen-presenting cells. This is accomplished through the direct competition of tumor cells with actively proliferating glycolytic immune cells for glucose and indirectly through the creation by the tumor of a microenvironment that interferes with maturation and activation of antigen-presenting cells and naïve cytotoxic T cells. Immunosuppressive properties of an acidic microenvironment in the vicinity of the tumor can thus provide additional benefits for upregulation of glycolysis by tumor cells, suggesting that the two emerging "hallmarks of cancer," altered glucose metabolism and immune suppression, are in fact fundamentally linked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Kareva
- Center of Cancer Systems Biology, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02135, USA
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263
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Mocellin S, Benna C, Pilati P. Coinhibitory molecules in cancer biology and therapy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 24:147-61. [PMID: 23380546 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The adaptive immune response is controlled by checkpoints represented by coinhibitory molecules, which are crucial for maintaining self-tolerance and minimizing collateral tissue damage under physiological conditions. A growing body of preclinical evidence supports the hypothesis that unleashing this immunological break might be therapeutically beneficial in the fight against cancer, as it would elicit an effective antitumor immune response. Remarkably, recent clinical trials have demonstrated that this novel strategy can be highly effective in the treatment of patients with cancer, as shown by the paradigmatic case of ipilimumab (a monoclonal antibody blocking the coinhibitory molecule cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen-4 [CTLA4]) that is opening a new era in the therapeutic approach to a chemoresistant tumor such as cutaneous melanoma. In this review we summarize the biology of coinhibitory molecules, overview the experimental and clinical attempts to interfere with these immune checkpoints to treat cancer and critically discuss the challenges posed by such a promising antitumor modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Mocellin
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
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264
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Wierstra I. FOXM1 (Forkhead box M1) in tumorigenesis: overexpression in human cancer, implication in tumorigenesis, oncogenic functions, tumor-suppressive properties, and target of anticancer therapy. Adv Cancer Res 2013; 119:191-419. [PMID: 23870513 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407190-2.00016-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
FOXM1 (Forkhead box M1) is a typical proliferation-associated transcription factor and is also intimately involved in tumorigenesis. FOXM1 stimulates cell proliferation and cell cycle progression by promoting the entry into S-phase and M-phase. Additionally, FOXM1 is required for proper execution of mitosis. In accordance with its role in stimulation of cell proliferation, FOXM1 exhibits a proliferation-specific expression pattern and its expression is regulated by proliferation and anti-proliferation signals as well as by proto-oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Since these factors are often mutated, overexpressed, or lost in human cancer, the normal control of the foxm1 expression by them provides the basis for deregulated FOXM1 expression in tumors. Accordingly, FOXM1 is overexpressed in many types of human cancer. FOXM1 is intimately involved in tumorigenesis, because it contributes to oncogenic transformation and participates in tumor initiation, growth, and progression, including positive effects on angiogenesis, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, recruitment of tumor-associated macrophages, tumor-associated lung inflammation, self-renewal capacity of cancer cells, prevention of premature cellular senescence, and chemotherapeutic drug resistance. However, in the context of urethane-induced lung tumorigenesis, FOXM1 has an unexpected tumor suppressor role in endothelial cells because it limits pulmonary inflammation and canonical Wnt signaling in epithelial lung cells, thereby restricting carcinogenesis. Accordingly, FOXM1 plays a role in homologous recombination repair of DNA double-strand breaks and maintenance of genomic stability, that is, prevention of polyploidy and aneuploidy. The implication of FOXM1 in tumorigenesis makes it an attractive target for anticancer therapy, and several antitumor drugs have been reported to decrease FOXM1 expression.
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Investigation of CD28 gene polymorphisms in patients with sporadic breast cancer in a Chinese Han population in Northeast China. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48031. [PMID: 23133541 PMCID: PMC3485049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CD28 is one of a number of costimulatory molecules that play crucial roles in immune regulation and homeostasis. Accumulating evidence indicates that immune factors influence breast carcinogenesis. To clarify the relationships between polymorphisms in the CD28 gene and breast carcinogenesis, a case-control study was conducted in women from Heilongjiang Province in northeast of China. Methodology/Principal Findings Our research subjects consisted of 565 female patients with sporadic breast cancer and 605 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. In total, 12 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CD28 gene were successfully determined using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The relationship between the CD28 variants and clinical features, including histological grade, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (C-erbB2), estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and tumor protein 53 (P53) status were analyzed. A statistically significant association was observed between rs3116496 and breast cancer risk under different genetic models (additive P = 0.0164, dominant P = 0.0042). Different distributions of the rs3116496 ‘T’ allele were found in patients and controls, which remained significant after correcting the P value for multiple testing using Haploview with 10,000 permutations (corrected P = 0.0384). In addition, significant associations were observed between rs3116487/rs3116494 (D’ = 1, r2 = 0.99) and clinicopathological features such as C-erbB2 and ER status, in breast cancer patients. Conclusions/Significance Our findings indicate that CD28 gene polymorphisms contribute to sporadic breast cancer risk and have a significant association with clinicopathological features in a northeast Chinese Han population.
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Aarntzen EH, De Vries IJM, Lesterhuis WJ, Schuurhuis D, Jacobs JF, Bol K, Schreibelt G, Mus R, De Wilt JH, Haanen JB, Schadendorf D, Croockewit A, Blokx WA, Van Rossum MM, Kwok WW, Adema GJ, Punt CJ, Figdor CG. Targeting CD4+ T-Helper Cells Improves the Induction of Antitumor Responses in Dendritic Cell–Based Vaccination. Cancer Res 2012; 73:19-29. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-12-1127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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267
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Aarntzen EHJG, Srinivas M, Radu CG, Punt CJA, Boerman OC, Figdor CG, Oyen WJG, de Vries IJM. In vivo imaging of therapy-induced anti-cancer immune responses in humans. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 70:2237-57. [PMID: 23052208 PMCID: PMC3676735 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Revised: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy aims to re-engage and revitalize the immune system in the fight against cancer. Research over the past decades has shown that the relationship between the immune system and human cancer is complex, highly dynamic, and variable between individuals. Considering the complexity, enormous effort and costs involved in optimizing immunotherapeutic approaches, clinically applicable tools to monitor therapy-induced immune responses in vivo are most warranted. However, the development of such tools is complicated by the fact that a developing immune response encompasses several body compartments, e.g., peripheral tissues, lymph nodes, lymphatic and vascular systems, as well as the tumor site itself. Moreover, the cells that comprise the immune system are not static but constantly circulate through the vascular and lymphatic system. Molecular imaging is considered the favorite candidate to fulfill this task. The progress in imaging technologies and modalities has provided a versatile toolbox to address these issues. This review focuses on the detection of therapy-induced anticancer immune responses in vivo and provides a comprehensive overview of clinically available imaging techniques as well as perspectives on future developments. In the discussion, we will focus on issues that specifically relate to imaging of the immune system and we will discuss the strengths and limitations of the current clinical imaging techniques. The last section provides future directions that we envision to be crucial for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik H J G Aarntzen
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Fisher TS, Kamperschroer C, Oliphant T, Love VA, Lira PD, Doyonnas R, Bergqvist S, Baxi SM, Rohner A, Shen AC, Huang C, Sokolowski SA, Sharp LL. Targeting of 4-1BB by monoclonal antibody PF-05082566 enhances T-cell function and promotes anti-tumor activity. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2012; 61:1721-33. [PMID: 22406983 PMCID: PMC11028822 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-012-1237-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
4-1BB (CD137, TNFRSF9) is a costimulatory receptor expressed on several subsets of activated immune cells. Numerous studies of mouse and human T cells indicate that 4-1BB promotes cellular proliferation, survival, and cytokine production. 4-1BB agonist mAbs have demonstrated efficacy in prophylactic and therapeutic settings in both monotherapy and combination therapy tumor models and have established durable anti-tumor protective T-cell memory responses. PF-05082566 is a fully human IgG2 that binds to the extracellular domain of human 4-1BB with high affinity and specificity. In preclinical studies, this agonist antibody demonstrated its ability to activate NF-κB and induce downstream cytokine production, promote leukocyte proliferation, and inhibit tumor growth in a human PBMC xenograft tumor model. The mechanism of action and robust anti-tumor efficacy of PF-05082566 support its clinical development for the treatment of a broad spectrum of human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S. Fisher
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Cris Kamperschroer
- Immunotoxicology Center of Emphasis, Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT USA
| | - Theodore Oliphant
- Protein Therapeutics Center of Emphasis, Pfizer Inc., 700 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO 63017 USA
| | - Victoria A. Love
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Paul D. Lira
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Regis Doyonnas
- Genetically Engineered Models Center of Emphasis, Pfizer Inc., Eastern Point Road, Groton, CT 06340 USA
| | - Simon Bergqvist
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Sangita M. Baxi
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Allison Rohner
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
| | - Amy C. Shen
- Biomarkers Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Eastern Point Road, Groton, CT 06340 USA
| | - Chunli Huang
- Biomarkers Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Eastern Point Road, Groton, CT 06340 USA
| | - Sharon A. Sokolowski
- Biomarkers Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Eastern Point Road, Groton, CT 06340 USA
| | - Leslie L. Sharp
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 10724 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 USA
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Aarntzen EHJG, Bol K, Schreibelt G, Jacobs JFM, Lesterhuis WJ, Van Rossum MM, Adema GJ, Figdor CG, Punt CJA, De Vries IJM. Skin-test infiltrating lymphocytes early predict clinical outcome of dendritic cell-based vaccination in metastatic melanoma. Cancer Res 2012; 72:6102-10. [PMID: 23010076 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-12-2479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The identification of responding patients early during treatment would improve the capability to develop effective new immunotherapies more rapidly. Here, we describe a bioassay that may link early T-cell-mediated immune responses to later clinical benefits. This bioassay rests upon the tenet of immunotherapy that tumor-specific effector T cells capable of invading peripheral tissue can recognize tumor antigens and exert cytotoxic functions there. To show its utility, we conducted a retrospective study of a large cohort of metastatic melanoma patients (n = 91) enrolled in dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccination protocols to examine a hypothesized correlation of posttreatment skin-infiltrating lymphocytes (SKIL) with overall survival (OS). Stringent immunologic criteria were defined to identify long-term survivors. The presence of tumor-associated antigen (TAA)-specific CD8(+) T cell populations within SKILs (criterion I) was highly predictive for long-term survival. Further restriction by selecting for the presence of TAA-specific CD8(+) T cells specifically recognizing tumor peptide (criterion II) was also associated with improved OS. Recognition of naturally processed antigen (criterion III) maximized the accuracy of the test, with a median OS of 24.1 versus 9.9 months (P = 0.001). Our results show that detailed characterization of SKILs can permit an accurate selection of metastatic melanoma patients who benefit most from DC-based vaccination. This simple and robust bioassay integrates multiple aspects of cellular functions that mediate effective immune responses, thereby offering an effective tool to rapidly identify patients who are responding to immunotherapy at an early stage of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik H J G Aarntzen
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Matsueda S, Wang M, Weng J, Li Y, Yin B, Zou J, Li Q, Zhao W, Peng W, Legras X, Loo C, Wang RF, Wang HY. Identification of prostate-specific G-protein coupled receptor as a tumor antigen recognized by CD8(+) T cells for cancer immunotherapy. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45756. [PMID: 23029225 PMCID: PMC3447865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among elderly men in the US, and immunotherapy has been shown to be a promising strategy to treat patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Efforts to identify novel prostate specific tumor antigens will facilitate the development of effective cancer vaccines against prostate cancer. Prostate-specific G-protein coupled receptor (PSGR) is a novel antigen that has been shown to be specifically over-expressed in human prostate cancer tissues. In this study, we describe the identification of PSGR-derived peptide epitopes recognized by CD8+ T cells in an HLA-A2 dependent manner. Methodology/Principal Findings Twenty-one PSGR-derived peptides were predicted by an immuno-informatics approach based on the HLA-A2 binding motif. These peptides were examined for their ability to induce peptide-specific T cell responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from either HLA-A2+ healthy donors or HLA-A2+ prostate cancer patients. The recognition of HLA-A2 positive and PSGR expressing LNCaP cells was also tested. Among the 21 PSGR-derived peptides, three peptides, PSGR3, PSGR4 and PSGR14 frequently induced peptide-specific T cell responses in PBMCs from both healthy donors and prostate cancer patients. Importantly, these peptide-specific T cells recognized and killed LNCaP prostate cancer cells in an HLA class I-restricted manner. Conclusions/Significance We have identified three novel HLA-A2-restricted PSGR-derived peptides recognized by CD8+ T cells, which, in turn, recognize HLA-A2+ and PSGR+ tumor cells. The PSGR-derived peptides identified may be used as diagnostic markers as well as immune targets for development of anticancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoko Matsueda
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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271
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Cawood R, Hills T, Wong SL, Alamoudi AA, Beadle S, Fisher KD, Seymour LW. Recombinant viral vaccines for cancer. Trends Mol Med 2012; 18:564-74. [PMID: 22917663 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2012.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Revised: 07/14/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer arises from 'self' in a series of steps that are all subject to immunoediting. Therefore, therapeutic cancer vaccines must stimulate an immune response against tumour antigens that have already evaded the body's immune defences. Vaccines presenting a tumour antigen in the context of obvious danger signals seem more likely to stimulate a response. This approach can be facilitated by genetic engineering using recombinant viral vectors expressing tumour antigens, cytokines, or both, from an immunogenic virus particle. We overview clinical attempts to use these agents for systemic immunisation and contrast the results with strategies employing direct intratumoural administration. We focus on the challenge of producing an effective response within the immune-suppressive tumour microenvironment, and discuss how the technology can overcome these obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Cawood
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
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272
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Aarntzen EHJG, Schreibelt G, Bol K, Lesterhuis WJ, Croockewit AJ, de Wilt JHW, van Rossum MM, Blokx WAM, Jacobs JFM, Duiveman-de Boer T, Schuurhuis DH, Mus R, Thielemans K, de Vries IJM, Figdor CG, Punt CJA, Adema GJ. Vaccination with mRNA-electroporated dendritic cells induces robust tumor antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells responses in stage III and IV melanoma patients. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:5460-70. [PMID: 22896657 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-3368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Electroporation of dendritic cells (DC) with mRNA encoding tumor-associated antigens (TAA) has multiple advantages compared to peptide loading. We investigated the immunologic and clinical responses to vaccination with mRNA-electroporated DC in stage III and IV melanoma patients. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Twenty-six stage III HLA*02:01 melanoma patients scheduled for radical lymph node dissection (stage III) and 19 melanoma patients with irresectable locoregional or distant metastatic disease (referred to as stage IV) were included. Monocyte-derived DC, electroporated with mRNA encoding gp100 and tyrosinase, were pulsed with keyhole limpet hemocyanin and administered intranodally. TAA-specific T-cell responses were monitored in blood and skin-test infiltrating lymphocyte (SKIL) cultures. RESULTS Comparable numbers of vaccine-induced CD8(+) and/or CD4(+) TAA-specific T-cell responses were detected in SKIL cultures; 17/26 stage III patients and 11/19 stage IV patients. Strikingly, in this population, TAA-specific CD8(+) T cells that recognize multiple epitopes and produce elevated levels of IFNγ upon antigenic challenge in vitro, were significantly more often observed in stage III patients; 15/17 versus 3/11 stage IV patients, P = 0.0033. In stage IV patients, one mixed and one partial response were documented. The presence or absence of IFNγ-producing TAA-specific CD8(+) T cells in stage IV patients was associated with marked difference in median overall survival of 24.1 months versus 11.0 months, respectively. CONCLUSION Vaccination with mRNA-electroporated DC induces a broad repertoire of IFNγ producing TAA-specific CD8(+) and CD4(+) T-cell responses, particularly in stage III melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik H J G Aarntzen
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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273
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Pasero C, Speiser DE, Derré L, Olive D. The HVEM network: new directions in targeting novel costimulatory/co-inhibitory molecules for cancer therapy. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2012; 12:478-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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274
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Menger L, Vacchelli E, Adjemian S, Martins I, Ma Y, Shen S, Yamazaki T, Sukkurwala AQ, Michaud M, Mignot G, Schlemmer F, Sulpice E, Locher C, Gidrol X, Ghiringhelli F, Modjtahedi N, Galluzzi L, Andre F, Zitvogel L, Kepp O, Kroemer G. Cardiac Glycosides Exert Anticancer Effects by Inducing Immunogenic Cell Death. Sci Transl Med 2012; 4:143ra99. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3003807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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275
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Modeling and predicting clinical efficacy for drugs targeting the tumor milieu. Nat Biotechnol 2012; 30:648-57. [DOI: 10.1038/nbt.2286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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276
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Kono K, Iinuma H, Akutsu Y, Tanaka H, Hayashi N, Uchikado Y, Noguchi T, Fujii H, Okinaka K, Fukushima R, Matsubara H, Ohira M, Baba H, Natsugoe S, Kitano S, Takeda K, Yoshida K, Tsunoda T, Nakamura Y. Multicenter, phase II clinical trial of cancer vaccination for advanced esophageal cancer with three peptides derived from novel cancer-testis antigens. J Transl Med 2012; 10:141. [PMID: 22776426 PMCID: PMC3403921 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-10-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since a phase I clinical trial using three HLA-A24-binding peptides from TTK protein kinase (TTK), lymphocyte antigen-6 complex locus K (LY6K), and insulin-like growth factor-II mRNA binding protein-3 (IMP3) had been shown to be promising for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), we further performed a multicenter, non-randomized phase II clinical trial. Patients and methods Sixty ESCC patients were enrolled to evaluate OS, PFS, immunological response employing ELISPOT and pentamer assays. Each of the three peptides was administered with IFA weekly. All patients received the vaccination without knowing an HLA-A type, and the HLA types were key-opened at the analysis point. Hence, the endpoints were set to evaluate differences between HLA-A*2402-positive (24(+)) and -negative (24(−)) groups. Results The OS in the 24 (+) group (n = 35) tended to be better than that in the 24(−) group (n = 25) (MST 4.6 vs. 2.6 month, respectively, p = 0.121), although the difference was not statistically significant. However, the PFS in the 24(+) group was significantly better than that in the 24(−) group (p = 0.032). In the 24(+) group, ELISPOT assay indicated that the LY6K-, TTK-, and IMP3-specific CTL responses were observed after the vaccination in 63%, 45%, and 60% of the 24(+) group, respectively. The patients having LY6K-, TTK-, and IMP3-specific CTL responses revealed the better OS than those not having CTL induction, respectively. The patients showing the CTL induction for multiple peptides have better clinical responses. Conclusions The immune response induced by the vaccination could make the prognosis better for advanced ESCC patients. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00995358
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Kono
- First Department of Surgery, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan.
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277
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Redon CE, Weyemi U, Parekh PR, Huang D, Burrell AS, Bonner WM. γ-H2AX and other histone post-translational modifications in the clinic. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2012; 1819:743-56. [PMID: 22430255 PMCID: PMC3371125 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2012.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Chromatin is a dynamic complex of DNA and proteins that regulates the flow of information from genome to end product. The efficient recognition and faithful repair of DNA damage, particularly double-strand damage, is essential for genomic stability and cellular homeostasis. Imperfect repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) can lead to oncogenesis. The efficient repair of DSBs relies in part on the rapid formation of foci of phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ-H2AX) at each break site, and the subsequent recruitment of repair factors. These foci can be visualized with appropriate antibodies, enabling low levels of DSB damage to be measured in samples obtained from patients. Such measurements are proving useful to optimize treatments involving ionizing radiation, to assay in vivo the efficiency of various drugs to induce DNA damage, and to help diagnose patients with a variety of syndromes involving elevated levels of γ-H2AX. We will survey the state of the art of utilizing γ-H2AX in clinical settings. We will also discuss possibilities with other histone post-translational modifications. The ability to measure in vivo the responses of individual patients to particular drugs and/or radiation may help optimize treatments and improve patient care. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Chromatin in time and space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe E. Redon
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Urbain Weyemi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Palak R. Parekh
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Dejun Huang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, China
| | - Allison S. Burrell
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Molecular Medicine Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University
| | - William M. Bonner
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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278
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Monjazeb AM, Hsiao HH, Sckisel GD, Murphy WJ. The role of antigen-specific and non-specific immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer. J Immunotoxicol 2012; 9:248-58. [PMID: 22734880 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2012.685527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer is increasing, particularly with the recent FDA approval of sipuleucel-T and ipilimumab. The efficacy of anti-tumor immunotherapies has been modest compared to their theoretical and pre-clinical promise. This review evaluates the promise and pitfalls of immunotherapy and highlight some of the obstacles to improving anti-tumor immunotherapy: the need for technical refinement of therapies, the need for an increased understanding of how best to combine therapies with traditional cytotoxic therapies, the inability of patients to mount an effective immune response either due to disease burden or tumor induced immune suppression, the significant toxicities associated with many immunotherapies, and the lack of strongly immunogenic antigens required by many therapies. Further, antigen-non-specific immunotherapies, including cytokines such as interleukins and interferons, immuno-stimulatory agents such as CpG oligonucleotides, or BCG, antibodies targeted against receptors such as the agonistic CD40 or inhibitory CTLA-4 antibodies, and enzyme inhibitors such as those targeting cyclo-oxygenase or indolamine-2,3-dioxygenase are discussed. In addition, potential mechanisms of these therapies such as direct anti-tumor effects, reversal of immune suppression, activation of innate immunity, and antigen-non-specific T-cell activation are reviewed. We also appraise the potential of these antigen-non-specific therapies to overcome some of the previously described pitfalls of immunotherapy. Lastly, we discuss a recent series of studies from our laboratory demonstrating the importance of antigen-non-specific 'bystander activation' of memory T-lymphocytes by immunomodulatory therapies such as interleukin-2 and the antigen-non-specific anti-tumor effects of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arta M Monjazeb
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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279
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Xu H, Cao X. Dendritic cell vaccines in cancer immunotherapy: from biology to translational medicine. Front Med 2012; 5:323-32. [PMID: 22198743 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-011-0172-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology and Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
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280
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Abstract
Developers of cancer immunotherapy have struggled for decades to achieve clinical success in using the patient's immune system to treat cancer. In the absence of a defined development paradigm for immunotherapies, conventional criteria established for chemotherapy were applied to these agents. This article summarizes the recent lessons for development of agents in the immunotherapy space, describes the systematic creation of a new clinical development paradigm for cancer immunotherapies and integrates this paradigm with the emerging methodological framework for a new clinical sub-specialty of immuno-oncology, which was driven by the collaborative work between the Cancer Immunotherapy Consortium (CIC) of the Cancer Research Institute in the US and the Association for Cancer Immunotherapy (CIMT) in Europe. This new framework provides a better defined development path and a foundation for more reproducible success of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Hoos
- Cancer Immunotherapy Consortium (CIC; formerly Cancer Vaccine Consortium) of the Cancer Research Institute; New York, NY USA
| | - Cedrik Britten
- Association for Immunotherapy of Cancer; Mainz, Germany
- Ribological GmbH; Mainz, Germany
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281
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Ghafouri-Fard S. Immunotherapy in nonmelanoma skin cancer. Immunotherapy 2012; 4:499-510. [DOI: 10.2217/imt.12.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in humans. The role of the immune system in the prevention and regression of cancer is significant. UV radiation, being the most important risk factor in the development of skin cancer, has a suppressive effect on local and systemic immune effectors. Different immunotherapeutic approaches have been used for the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer including adoptive T-cell therapies, vaccine-based strategies, cytokines and monoclonal antibodies. The most important advancement with promising effects in the field of nonmelanoma skin cancer immunotherapy is the topical immune response modifier imiquimod. In addition, immunoprevention has been successfully applied for autosomal dominant basal cell nevus syndrome. Immunotherapeutic approaches provide a new modality for the treatment of recurrent or multiple nonmelanoma skin tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19857-17443, Iran
| | - Somayyeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19857-17443, Iran
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282
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Programmed death ligand 2 in cancer-induced immune suppression. Clin Dev Immunol 2012; 2012:656340. [PMID: 22611421 PMCID: PMC3350956 DOI: 10.1155/2012/656340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitory molecules of the B7/CD28 family play a key role in the induction of immune tolerance in the tumor microenvironment. The programmed death-1 receptor (PD-1), with its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2, constitutes an important member of these inhibitory pathways. The relevance of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in cancer has been extensively studied and therapeutic approaches targeting PD-1 and PD-L1 have been developed and are undergoing human clinical testing. However, PD-L2 has not received as much attention and its role in modulating tumor immunity is less clear. Here, we review the literature on the immunobiology of PD-L2, particularly on its possible roles in cancer-induced immune suppression and we discuss the results of recent studies targeting PD-L2 in cancer.
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283
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Reconsidering the Paradigm of Cancer Immunotherapy by Computationally Aided Real-time Personalization. Cancer Res 2012; 72:2218-27. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-4166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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284
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Bredberg A. Peto's paradox and cancer: a response to Caulin and Maley. Trends Ecol Evol 2012; 27:254-5. [PMID: 22425574 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2012.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2011] [Revised: 02/04/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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285
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Low pH formulation of whole IgG antivenom: Impact on quality, safety, neutralizing potency and viral inactivation. Biologicals 2012; 40:129-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2011.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Revised: 11/16/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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286
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Caux C, Zitvogel L. Recent successes of cancer immunotherapy: a new dimension in personalized medicine? Target Oncol 2012; 7:1-2. [DOI: 10.1007/s11523-012-0211-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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287
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Noh KH, Lee YH, Jeon JH, Kang TH, Mao CP, Wu TC, Kim TW. Cancer vaccination drives Nanog-dependent evolution of tumor cells toward an immune-resistant and stem-like phenotype. Cancer Res 2012; 72:1717-27. [PMID: 22337995 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-3758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Due to the exquisite specificity and potency of the immune system, vaccination is in theory the most precise and powerful approach for controlling cancer. However, current data from clinical trials indicate that vaccination rarely yields significant benefits for cancer patients in terms of tumor progression and long-term survival. The poor clinical outcomes of vaccination are primarily caused by mechanisms of immune tolerance, especially within the tumor microenvironment. Here, we report that vaccination drives the evolution of tumor cells toward an immune-resistant and stem-like phenotype that promotes tumor growth and nullifies the CTL response. The emergence of this phenotype required the transcription factor Nanog, which is induced as a consequence of immune selection. Nanog expression enhanced the stem-like features of tumor cells and protected them from killing by tumor-reactive CTLs. Delivery of siNanog into tumor-bearing mice rendered the tumor vulnerable to immune surveillance and strongly suppressed its growth. Together, our findings show tumor adaptation to vaccination through gain of an immune-resistant, stem-like phenotype and identify Nanog as a central molecular target in this process. Future vaccination technology should consider Nanog an important target to enhance the immunotherapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Hee Noh
- Divison of Infection and Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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288
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Abstract
It has recently become clear that the tumour microenvironment, and in particular the immune system, has a crucial role in modulating tumour progression and response to therapy. Indicators of an ongoing immune response, such as the composition of the intratumoural immune infiltrate, as well as polymorphisms in genes encoding immune modulators, have been correlated with therapeutic outcome. Moreover, several anticancer agents--including classical chemotherapeutics and targeted compounds--stimulate tumour-specific immune responses either by inducing the immunogenic death of tumour cells or by engaging immune effector mechanisms. Here, we discuss the molecular and cellular circuitries whereby cytotoxic agents can activate the immune system against cancer, and their therapeutic implications.
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289
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Bratkovič T, Glavan G, Strukelj B, Zivin M, Rogelj B. Exploiting microRNAs for cell engineering and therapy. Biotechnol Adv 2012; 30:753-65. [PMID: 22286072 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Revised: 01/05/2012] [Accepted: 01/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) form a large class of non-coding RNAs that function in repression of gene expression in eukaryotes. By recognizing short stretches of nucleotides within the untranslated regions of mRNAs, miRNAs recruit partner proteins to individual transcripts, leading to mRNA cleavage or hindering of translation. Bioinformatic predictions and a wealth of data from wet laboratory studies indicate that miRNAs control expression of a large proportion of protein-coding genes, implying involvement of miRNAs in regulation of most biologic processes. In this review we discuss the biology of miRNAs and present examples of how manipulation of miRNA expression or activity can be exploited to attain the desired phenotypic traits in cell engineering as well as achieve therapeutic outcomes in treatment of a diverse set of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaž Bratkovič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Aškerčeva 7, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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290
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Martin F, Apetoh L, Ghiringhelli F. Role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in tumor immunotherapy. Immunotherapy 2012; 4:43-57. [DOI: 10.2217/imt.11.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature myeloid cells that infiltrate human and experimental tumors and strongly inhibit anticancer immune response directly or by inducing regulatory T-lymphocyte activity. Consequently, MDSCs are important actors of cancer-induced immune tolerance and a major obstacle to efficiency of cancer immunotherapy. Several means of preventing MDSCs accumulation or inhibiting their immunosuppressive effect were recently discovered in cancer-bearing hosts, contributing to restoring antitumor immunity and consequently to control of tumor growth. In experimental tumor models, targeting MDSCs can enhance the effects of active or passive immunotherapy. While similar effects have not yet been noted in cancer-bearing patients, recent preclinical findings demonstrating that the selective toxicity of conventional chemotherapies such as gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil on MDSCs might contribute to their anticancer effect provide impetus to pursue investigations to unravel novel therapeutics that target MDSCs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Martin
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Avenir Team INSERM, CRI-866 University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
| | - Lionel Apetoh
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Avenir Team INSERM, CRI-866 University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Georges François Leclerc Center, 21000, Dijon, France
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291
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Wang HY, Wang RF. Enhancing cancer immunotherapy by intracellular delivery of cell-penetrating peptides and stimulation of pattern-recognition receptor signaling. Adv Immunol 2012; 114:151-76. [PMID: 22449781 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-396548-6.00006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The importance of T-cell-mediated antitumor immunity has been demonstrated in both animal models and human cancer immunotherapy. In the past 30 years, T-cell-based immunotherapy has been improved with an objective clinical response rate of up to 72%. Identification of MHC class I- and II-restricted tumor antigens recognized by tumor-reactive T cells has generated a resurgence of interest in cancer vaccines. Although clinical trials with cancer peptide/protein vaccines have only met a limited success, several phase II/III clinical trials are either completed or ongoing with encouraging results. Recent advances in immunotherapy have led to the approval of two anticancer drugs (sipuleucel-T vaccine and anti-CTLA-4 antibody) by the US FDA for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and melanoma, respectively. Intracellular delivery of antigenic peptides into dendritic cells (DCs) prolongs antigen presentation of antigen-presenting cells to T cells, thus further improving clinical efficacy of peptide/protein cancer vaccines. Because innate immune responses are critically important to provide sensing and initiating of adaptive immunity, combined use of cell-penetrating peptide vaccines with stimulation of innate immune signaling may produce potent antitumor immune responses. We will discuss the recent progress and novel strategies in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Y Wang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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292
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Cancer genome sequencing and its implications for personalized cancer vaccines. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:4191-211. [PMID: 24213133 PMCID: PMC3763418 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3044191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2011] [Revised: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
New DNA sequencing platforms have revolutionized human genome sequencing. The dramatic advances in genome sequencing technologies predict that the $1,000 genome will become a reality within the next few years. Applied to cancer, the availability of cancer genome sequences permits real-time decision-making with the potential to affect diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, and has opened the door towards personalized medicine. A promising strategy is the identification of mutated tumor antigens, and the design of personalized cancer vaccines. Supporting this notion are preliminary analyses of the epitope landscape in breast cancer suggesting that individual tumors express significant numbers of novel antigens to the immune system that can be specifically targeted through cancer vaccines.
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293
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Early identification of antigen-specific immune responses in vivo by [18F]-labeled 3'-fluoro-3'-deoxy-thymidine ([18F]FLT) PET imaging. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:18396-9. [PMID: 22025695 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1113045108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Current biomarkers are unable to adequately predict vaccine-induced immune protection in humans with infectious disease or cancer. However, timely and adequate assessment of antigen-specific immune responses is critical for successful vaccine development. Therefore, we have developed a method for the direct assessment of immune responses in vivo in a clinical setting. Melanoma patients with lymph node (LN) metastases received dendritic cell (DC) vaccine therapy, injected intranodally, followed by [(18)F]-labeled 3'-fluoro-3'-deoxy-thymidine ([(18)F]FLT) PET at varying time points after vaccination. Control LNs received saline or DCs without antigen. De novo immune responses were readily visualized in treated LNs early after the prime vaccination, and these signals persisted for up to 3 wk. This selective [(18)F]FLT uptake was markedly absent in control LNs, although tracer uptake in treated LNs increased profoundly with as little as 4.5 × 10(5) DCs. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed injected DC dispersion to T-cell areas and resultant activation of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells. The level of LN tracer uptake significantly correlates to the level of circulating antigen-specific IgG antibodies and antigen-specific proliferation of T cells in peripheral blood. Furthermore, this correlation was not observed with [(18)F]-labeled fluoro-2-deoxy-2-D-glucose. Therefore, [(18)F]FLT PET offers a sensitive tool to study the kinetics, localization, and involvement of lymphocyte subsets in response to vaccination. This technique allows for early discrimination of responding from nonresponding patients in anti-cancer vaccination and aid physicians in individualized decisionmaking.
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