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Du Z, Sui D, Xin D, Tang X, Li M, Liu X, Deng Y, Song Y. Sialic acid-modified doxorubicin liposomes target tumor-related immune cells to relieve multiple inhibitions of CD8 + T cells. J Liposome Res 2024; 34:464-474. [PMID: 38196168 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2023.2298901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
In different types of cancer treatments, cancer-specific T cells are required for effective anticancer immunity, which has a central role in cancer immunotherapy. However, due to the multiple inhibitions of CD8+ T cells by tumor-related immune cells, CD8+ T-cell mediated antitumor immunotherapy has not achieved breakthrough progress in the treatment of solid tumors. Receptors for sialic acid (SA) are highly expressed in tumor-associated immune cells, so SA-modified nanoparticles are a drug delivery nanoplatform using tumor-associated immune cells as vehicles. To relieve the multiple inhibitions of CD8+ T cells by tumor-associated immune cells, we prepared SA-modified doxorubicin liposomes (SL-DOX, Scheme 1A). In our study, free SA decreased the toxicity of SL-DOX to tumor-associated immune cells. Compared with common liposomes, SL-DOX could inhibit tumor growth more effectively. It is worth noting that SL-DOX could not only kill tumor-related neutrophils and monocytes to relieve the multiple inhibitions of CD8+ T cells but also induce immunogenic death of tumor cells to promote the infiltration and differentiation of CD8+ T cells (Scheme 1B). Therefore, SL-DOX has potential value for the clinical therapeutic effect of CD8+ T cells mediating anti-tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouchunxiao Du
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dezhi Sui
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dongzhe Xin
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xueying Tang
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mingze Li
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinrong Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yihui Deng
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanzhi Song
- College of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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2
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Ziółkowska-Suchanek I, Żurawek M. FOXP3: A Player of Immunogenetic Architecture in Lung Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:493. [PMID: 38674427 PMCID: PMC11050689 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) is considered to be a prominent component of the immune system expressed in regulatory T cells (Tregs). Tregs are immunosuppressive cells that regulate immune homeostasis and self-tolerance. FOXP3 was originally thought to be a Tregs-specific molecule, but recent studies have pinpointed that FOXP3 is expressed in a diversity of benign tumors and carcinomas. The vast majority of the data have shown that FOXP3 is correlated with an unfavorable prognosis, although there are some reports indicating the opposite function of this molecule. Here, we review recent progress in understanding the FOXP3 role in the immunogenetic architecture of lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer-related death. We discuss the prognostic significance of tumor FOXP3 expression, tumor-infiltrating FOXP3-lymphocytes, tumor FOXP3 in tumor microenvironments and the potential of FOXP3-targeted therapy.
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3
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Swatler J, De Luca M, Rotella I, Lise V, Mazza EMC, Lugli E. CD4+ Regulatory T Cells in Human Cancer: Subsets, Origin, and Molecular Regulation. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:393-399. [PMID: 38562083 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
CD4+CD25hiFOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) play major roles in the maintenance of immune tolerance, prevention of inflammation, and tissue homeostasis and repair. In contrast with these beneficial roles, Tregs are abundant in virtually all tumors and have been mechanistically linked to disease progression, metastases development, and therapy resistance. Tregs are thus recognized as a major target for cancer immunotherapy. Compared with other sites in the body, tumors harbor hyperactivated Treg subsets whose molecular characteristics are only beginning to be elucidated. Here, we describe current knowledge of intratumoral Tregs and discuss their potential cellular and tissue origin. Furthermore, we describe currently recognized molecular regulators that drive differentiation and maintenance of Tregs in cancer, with a special focus on those signals regulating their chronic immune activation, with relevant implications for cancer progression and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Swatler
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | - Marco De Luca
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | - Ivano Rotella
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | - Veronica Lise
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
| | | | - Enrico Lugli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan
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4
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van Dorst MMAR, Pyuza JJ, Nkurunungi G, Kullaya VI, Smits HH, Hogendoorn PCW, Wammes LJ, Everts B, Elliott AM, Jochems SP, Yazdanbakhsh M. Immunological factors linked to geographical variation in vaccine responses. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:250-263. [PMID: 37770632 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00941-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination is one of medicine's greatest achievements; however, its full potential is hampered by considerable variation in efficacy across populations and geographical regions. For example, attenuated malaria vaccines in high-income countries confer almost 100% protection, whereas in low-income regions these same vaccines achieve only 20-50% protection. This trend is also observed for other vaccines, such as bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), rotavirus and yellow fever vaccines, in terms of either immunogenicity or efficacy. Multiple environmental factors affect vaccine responses, including pathogen exposure, microbiota composition and dietary nutrients. However, there has been variable success with interventions that target these individual factors, highlighting the need for a better understanding of their downstream immunological mechanisms to develop new ways of modulating vaccine responses. Here, we review the immunological factors that underlie geographical variation in vaccine responses. Through the identification of causal pathways that link environmental influences to vaccine responsiveness, it might become possible to devise modulatory compounds that can complement vaccines for better outcomes in regions where they are needed most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marloes M A R van Dorst
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jeremia J Pyuza
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Vesla I Kullaya
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Hermelijn H Smits
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Linda J Wammes
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Bart Everts
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Simon P Jochems
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
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Lu Q, Xi P, Xu S, Zhang Z, Gong B, Liu J, Zhu Q, Sun T, Zhu S, Chen R. A novel risk signature based on liquid-liquid phase separation-related genes reveals prognostic and tumour microenvironmental features in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:6118-6134. [PMID: 38546385 PMCID: PMC11042959 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clear cell renal cell carcinoma(ccRCC) is one of the most common malignancies. However, there are still many barriers to its underlying causes, early diagnostic techniques and therapeutic approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)- Kidney renal clear cell (KIRC) cohort differentially analysed liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS)-related genes from the DrLLPS website. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses and LASSO regression analyses were used to construct prognostic models. The E-MTAB-1980 cohort was used for external validation. Then, potential functions, immune infiltration analysis, and mutational landscapes were analysed for the high-risk and low-risk groups. Finally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) experiments as well as single-cell analyses validated the genes key to the model. RESULTS We screened 174 LLPS-related genes in ccRCC and constructed a risk signature consisting of five genes (CLIC5, MXD3, NUF2, PABPC1L, PLK1). The high-risk group was found to be associated with worse prognosis in different subgroups. A nomogram constructed by combining age and tumour stage had a strong predictive power for the prognosis of ccRCC patients. In addition, there were differences in pathway enrichment, immune cell infiltration, and mutational landscapes between the two groups. The results of qRT-PCR in renal cancer cell lines and renal cancer tissues were consistent with the biosignature prediction. Three single-cell data of GSE159115, GSE139555, and GSE121636 were analysed for differences in the presence of these five genes in different cells. CONCLUSIONS We developed a risk signature constructed based on the five LLPS-related genes and can have a high ability to predict the prognosis of ccRCC patients, further providing a strong support for clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Lu
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou 350001, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Ping Xi
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Suling Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhicheng Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Fuzhou First People’s Hospital, Fuzhou 344000, Jiangxi, China
| | - Binbin Gong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ji Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shaoxing Zhu
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou 350001, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Ru Chen
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou 350001, Fujian, P.R. China
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Fetit R, McLaren AS, White M, Mills ML, Falconer J, Cortes-Lavaud X, Gilroy K, Lannagan TRM, Ridgway RA, Nixon C, Naiker V, Njunge R, Clarke CJ, Whyte D, Kirschner K, Jackstadt R, Norman J, Carlin LM, Campbell AD, Sansom OJ, Steele CW. Characterizing Neutrophil Subtypes in Cancer Using scRNA Sequencing Demonstrates the Importance of IL1β/CXCR2 Axis in Generation of Metastasis-specific Neutrophils. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:588-606. [PMID: 38358352 PMCID: PMC10903300 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Neutrophils are a highly heterogeneous cellular population. However, a thorough examination of the different transcriptional neutrophil states between health and malignancy has not been performed. We utilized single-cell RNA sequencing of human and murine datasets, both publicly available and independently generated, to identify neutrophil transcriptomic subtypes and developmental lineages in health and malignancy. Datasets of lung, breast, and colorectal cancer were integrated to establish and validate neutrophil gene signatures. Pseudotime analysis was used to identify genes driving neutrophil development from health to cancer. Finally, ligand-receptor interactions and signaling pathways between neutrophils and other immune cell populations in primary colorectal cancer and metastatic colorectal cancer were investigated. We define two main neutrophil subtypes in primary tumors: an activated subtype sharing the transcriptomic signatures of healthy neutrophils; and a tumor-specific subtype. This signature is conserved in murine and human cancer, across different tumor types. In colorectal cancer metastases, neutrophils are more heterogeneous, exhibiting additional transcriptomic subtypes. Pseudotime analysis implicates IL1β/CXCL8/CXCR2 axis in the progression of neutrophils from health to cancer and metastasis, with effects on T-cell effector function. Functional analysis of neutrophil-tumoroid cocultures and T-cell proliferation assays using orthotopic metastatic mouse models lacking Cxcr2 in neutrophils support our transcriptional analysis. We propose that the emergence of metastatic-specific neutrophil subtypes is driven by the IL1β/CXCL8/CXCR2 axis, with the evolution of different transcriptomic signals that impair T-cell function at the metastatic site. Thus, a better understanding of neutrophil transcriptomic programming could optimize immunotherapeutic interventions into early and late interventions, targeting different neutrophil states. SIGNIFICANCE We identify two recurring neutrophil populations and demonstrate their staged evolution from health to malignancy through the IL1β/CXCL8/CXCR2 axis, allowing for immunotherapeutic neutrophil-targeting approaches to counteract immunosuppressive subtypes that emerge in metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Fetit
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair S McLaren
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Mark White
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Kathryn Gilroy
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Colin Nixon
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Renee Njunge
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Declan Whyte
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina Kirschner
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jim Norman
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Leo M Carlin
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Owen J Sansom
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Colin W Steele
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer Sciences, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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7
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Xiu M, Bao W, Wang J, Chen J, Li Y, Hai Y. High USP32 expression contributes to cancer progression and is correlated with immune infiltrates in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:1105. [PMID: 37957631 PMCID: PMC10644423 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11617-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ubiquitin-specific protease 32 (USP32) is a highly conserved gene that promotes cancer progression. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well understood. The aim of this project is to explore the clinical significance and functions of USP32 in HCC. METHODS The expression of USP32 in HCC was evaluated using data from TCGA, GEO, TISCH, tissue microarray, and human HCC samples from our hospital. Survival analysis, PPI analysis and GSEA analysis were performed to evaluate USP32-related clinical significance, key molecules and enrichment pathways. Using the ssGSEA algorithm and TIMER, we investigated the relationships between USP32 and immune infiltrates in the TME. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were then used to identify key USP32-related immunomodulators and constructed a USP32-related immune prognostic model. Finally, CCK8, transwell and colony formation assays of HCC cells were performed and an HCC nude mouse model was established to verify the oncogenic role of USP32. RESULTS USP32 is overexpressed in HCC and its expression is an independent predictive factor for outcomes of HCC patients. USP32 is associated with pathways related to cell behaviors and cancer signaling, and its expression is significantly correlated with the infiltration of immune cells in the TME. We also successfully constructed a USP32-related immune prognostic model using 5 genes. Wet experiments confirmed that knockdown of USP32 could repress the proliferation, colony formation and migration of HCC cells in vitro and inhibit tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION USP32 is highly expressed in HCC and closely correlates with the TME of HCC. It is a potential target for improving the efficacy of chemotherapy and developing new strategies for targeted therapy and immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Xiu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Wenfang Bao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jialin Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jingde Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Yandong Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
| | - Yanan Hai
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
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8
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Bhat AA, Goyal A, Thapa R, Almalki WH, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Singh M, Rohilla S, Saini TK, Kukreti N, Meenakshi DU, Fuloria NK, Sekar M, Gupta G. Uncovering the complex role of interferon-gamma in suppressing type 2 immunity to cancer. Cytokine 2023; 171:156376. [PMID: 37748333 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Cancer involves cells' abnormal growth and ability to invade or metastasize to different body parts. Cancerous cells can divide uncontrollably and spread to other areas through the lymphatic or circulatory systems. Tumors form when malignant cells clump together in an uncontrolled manner. In this context, the cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is crucial in regulating immunological responses, particularly malignancy. While IFN-γ is well-known for its potent anti-tumor effects by activating type 1 immunity, recent research has revealed its ability to suppress type 2 immunity, associated with allergy and inflammatory responses. This review aims to elucidate the intricate function of IFN-γ in inhibiting type 2 immune responses to cancer. We explore how IFN-γ influences the development and function of immune cells involved in type 2 immunity, such as mast cells, eosinophils, and T-helper 2 (Th2) cells. Additionally, we investigate the impact of IFN-mediated reduction of type 2 immunity on tumor development, metastasis, and the response to immunotherapeutic interventions. To develop successful cancer immunotherapies, it is crucial to comprehend the complex interplay between type 2 and type 1 immune response and the regulatory role of IFN-γ. This understanding holds tremendous promise for the development of innovative treatment approaches that harness the abilities of both immune response types to combat cancer. However, unraveling the intricate interplay between IFN-γ and type 2 immunity in the tumor microenvironment will be essential for achieving this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Ahsas Goyal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, U. P., India
| | - Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahaveer Singh
- Swami Keshvanand Institute of Pharmacy (SKIP), Raiser, Bikaner, 334022, India
| | - Suman Rohilla
- SGT College of Pharmacy, Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, 122505, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Saini
- Dept. Of Neurosurgery ICU, Lok Nayak Hospital, New Delhi (Govt. Of NCT Of Delhi), New Delhi, India
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | | | | | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India.
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9
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Jia W, Yuan J, Li S, Cheng B. The role of dysregulated mRNA translation machinery in cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic value of ribosome-inactivating proteins. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:189018. [PMID: 37944831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulated protein synthesis is a hallmark of tumors. mRNA translation reprogramming contributes to tumorigenesis, which is fueled by abnormalities in ribosome formation, tRNA abundance and modification, and translation factors. Not only malignant cells but also stromal cells within tumor microenvironment can undergo transformation toward tumorigenic phenotypes during translational reprogramming. Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) have garnered interests for their ability to selectively inhibit protein synthesis and suppress tumor growth. This review summarizes the role of dysregulated translation machinery in tumor development and explores the potential of RIPs in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Jia
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200043, China
| | - Jiaying Yuan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201900, China.
| | - Binbin Cheng
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200043, China.
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10
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Negura I, Pavel-Tanasa M, Danciu M. Regulatory T cells in gastric cancer: Key controllers from pathogenesis to therapy. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 120:102629. [PMID: 37769435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2023.102629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly aggressive malignancy that remains a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide, despite a decline in incidence in recent years. Early-stage GC poses a diagnostic challenge due to its asymptomatic nature, leading to poor prognoses for most patients. Conventional treatment approaches, including chemotherapy and surgery, have shown limited efficacy in improving outcomes for GC patients. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer therapy, yielding durable responses across various malignancies. However, the clinical benefits of ICIs in GC have been modest, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of immune cell functions within the GC tumor microenvironment (TME). Regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subset of T lymphocytes, play a pivotal role in GC development and progression and serve as prognostic biomarkers for GC patients. This review aims to elucidate the multifaceted roles of Tregs in the pathogenesis, progression, and prognosis of gastric cancer, and establish their actual and future potential as therapeutic targets. By providing insights into the intricate interplay between Tregs and the TME, this review strives to stimulate further investigation and facilitate the development of targeted Treg-based therapeutic strategies for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion Negura
- Department of Pathology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mariana Pavel-Tanasa
- Department of Immunology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Mihai Danciu
- Department of Pathology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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11
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Monsrud AL, Avadhani V, Mosunjac MB, Flowers L, Krishnamurti U. Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1) Expression in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Does it Correlate With Outcomes? Int J Gynecol Pathol 2023; 42:535-543. [PMID: 37562018 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies. Upregulation of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), an immunoregulatory protein, is associated with an adverse outcomes in several malignancies. Most studies evaluating PD-L1 expression in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) lack data on outcomes. In this study, we correlate PD-L1 expression with clinicopathologic factors and clinical outcomes in invasive CSCC. Seventy-three cases of CSCC from 2010 to 2018 were immunostained for PD-L1. A combined positive score (CPS) of ≥1 and ≥10 was correlated with age, stage, and survival outcomes. Kaplan-Meier curves for progression-free survival and overall survival were plotted and compared using the log-rank test. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify significant prognostic factors (2-tailed P <0.05 was considered statistically significant). With CPS ≥1 or ≥10 as the cut-off, PD-L1 was positive in 52/73 (71.2%) and 23/73 (31.5%) of cases, respectively. PD-L1 positive patients present at a higher stage of disease, especially those with CPS ≥10. With CPS of ≥10 as the cut-off, the 5-yr progression-free survival and 5-yr overall survival were significantly lower ( P = 0.034 and 0.012, respectively). Only stage was statistically significant for worse overall survival on multivariate analysis. PD-L1 positive patients present at a higher stage of disease, and stage is an independent prognostic indicator for adverse outcomes in CSCC. This study highlights the potential of PD-L1 targeted therapy in patients with CSCC.
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12
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Fang Y, Chen S, Zhang M, Lin X, Jin X, Zhang M, Liu Y, Wang Y, Shi K. A Trojan Horse Delivery Vehicle Carrying siRNA Nanotherapeutics with Multiple Tumor Microenvironment Responsiveness Elicits Robust Antitumor Immune Responses In Situ via a "Self-Synergistic" Approach. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301401. [PMID: 37537715 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The potential of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in the treatment of malignant tumors has attracted increasing attention due to their inherent advantages. However, their therapeutic performance strongly depends on the efficiency of their cytoplasmic delivery in vivo by the delivery vehicle with good cellular permeability and histocompatibility. Herein, a polycationic carrier camouflaged with macrophage membrane (MPM) is constructed biomimetically, which is condensed from endogenous spermine monomers through diselenide bonds. The developed Trojan horse delivery vehicle has desirable compression efficacy for siRNA oligo against PD-L1 (siPDL1) as well as intracytoplasmic release properties derived from its sequential degradation triggered by redox microenvironment in tumor cells. Furthermore, the coloading of photosensitizer can mediate photodynamic therapy (PDT) accompanied by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light irradiation applied, which accelerated the degradation of the carrier as well as the release of cargoes while enhancing the PD-L1 blockage-mediated immunotherapy by inducing in-situ immunogenic cell death. Moreover, the synchronously delivered siPDL1 attenuated the ROS-induced increase in immunosuppressive PD-L1 expression, thereby effectively eliciting a robust antitumor immune response with a "self-synergistic" manner in the xenograft breast cancer mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, 200025, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Shuai Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Mingyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojie Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Xuechao Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, P. R. China
| | - Yunmeng Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Yaxin Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Kai Shi
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China
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13
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Xu L, Liu M, Lian J, Li E, Dongmin C, Li X, Wang W. A prognostic nomogram for predicting recurrence-free survival of stage I-III colon cancer based on immune-infiltrating Treg-related genes. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:13523-13543. [PMID: 37498396 PMCID: PMC10590341 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05187-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A high postoperative recurrence rate seriously impedes colon cancer (CC) patients from achieving long-term survival. Here, we aimed to develop a Treg-related classifier that can help predict recurrence-free survival (RFS) and therapy benefits of stage I-III colon cancer. METHODS A Treg-related prognostic classifier was built through a variety of bioinformatic methods, whose performance was assessed by KM survival curves, time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (tROC), and Harrell's concordance index (C-index). A prognostic nomogram was generated using this classifier and other traditional clinical parameters. Moreover, the predictive values of this classifier for immunotherapy and chemotherapy therapeutic efficacy were tested using multiple immunotherapy sets and R package "pRRophetic". RESULTS A nine Treg-related classifier categorized CC patients into high- and low-risk groups with distinct RFS in the multiple datasets (all p < 0.05). The AUC values of 5-year RFS were 0.712, 0.588, 0.669, and 0.662 in the training, 1st, 2nd, and entire validation sets, respectively. Furthermore, this classifier was identified as an independent predictor of RFS. Finally, a nomogram combining this classifier and three clinical variables was generated, the analysis of tROC, C-index, calibration curves, and the comparative analysis with other signatures confirmed its predictive performance. Moreover, KM analysis exhibited an obvious discrepancy in the subgroups, especially in different TNM stages and with adjuvant chemotherapy. We detected the difference between the two risk subsets of immune cell sub-population and the response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS We built a robust Treg-related classifier and generated a prognostic nomogram that predicts recurrence-free survival in stage I-III colon cancer that can identify high-risk patients for more personalized and effective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longwen Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mengjie Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jie Lian
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Enmeng Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chang Dongmin
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Xuqi Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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14
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Mahdi HS, Woodall-Jappe M, Singh P, Czuczman MS. Targeting regulatory T cells by E7777 enhances CD8 T-cell-mediated anti-tumor activity and extends survival benefit of anti-PD-1 in solid tumor models. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268979. [PMID: 38022532 PMCID: PMC10646188 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Regulatory T cell (Treg)-targeting cancer immunotherapy aims to transiently deplete Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment, without affecting effector T cells (Teff), thus both enhancing anti-tumor activity and avoiding autoimmunity. This study evaluated whether adding E7777 (a new formulation of denileukin diftitox [DD]) improved the efficacy of anti-PD-1 antibody therapy. DD is a recombinant protein containing the hydrophobic and catalytic portions of diphtheria toxin fused to full-length human IL-2. E7777 has the same amino acid sequence and brief circulatory half-life as DD, but with greater purity and potency. Methods Subcutaneous syngeneic murine solid tumor models (colon cancer CT-26 and liver cancer H22) were used to evaluate safety, efficacy, and overall survival with E7777 and anti-PD-1 antibodies, each administered as monotherapy or in concurrent or sequential combination. In Experiment 1, treatments were compared to assess anti-tumor activity at various time points, with tumors excised and dissociated and tumor leukocytes characterized. In Experiment 2, tumor growth, response, and overall survival were characterized for 100 days following a 3-week treatment. Results E7777 administered in combination with anti-PD-1 led to significantly increased anti-tumor activity and durable, extended overall survival compared to either treatment alone. In both tumor models, the Treg cell infiltration induced by anti-PD-1 treatment was counterbalanced by co-treatment with E7777, suggesting potential synergistic activity. Combination therapy showed the most favorable results. Treatment with E7777 was safe and well-tolerated. Discussion Combined E7777 and anti-PD-1 therapy was well tolerated and more effective than monotherapy with either drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haider S. Mahdi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | | | - Preeti Singh
- Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cranford, NJ, United States
| | - Myron S. Czuczman
- Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cranford, NJ, United States
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15
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Luo Z, Zhang Y, Saleh QW, Zhang J, Zhu Z, Tepel M. Metabolic regulation of forkhead box P3 alternative splicing isoforms and their impact on health and disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1278560. [PMID: 37868998 PMCID: PMC10588449 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1278560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Forkhead Box P3 (FOXP3) is crucial for the development and suppressive function of human regulatory T cells (Tregs). There are two predominant FOXP3 splicing isoforms in healthy humans, the full-length isoform and the isoform lacking exon 2, with different functions and regulation mechanisms. FOXP3 splicing isoforms show distinct abilities in the cofactor interaction and the nuclear translocation, resulting in different effects on the differentiation, cytokine secretion, suppressive function, linage stability, and environmental adaptation of Tregs. The balance of FOXP3 splicing isoforms is related to autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancers. In response to environmental challenges, FOXP3 transcription and splicing can be finely regulated by T cell antigen receptor stimulation, glycolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and reactive oxygen species, with various signaling pathways involved. Strategies targeting energy metabolism and FOXP3 splicing isoforms in Tregs may provide potential new approaches for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancers. In this review, we summarize recent discoveries about the FOXP3 splicing isoforms and address the metabolic regulation and specific functions of FOXP3 splicing isoforms in Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhidan Luo
- Department of Geriatrics, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Yihua Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Chongqing Fifth People’s Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Qais Waleed Saleh
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiming Zhu
- Department of Hypertension and Endocrinology, Daping Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Martin Tepel
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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16
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Xu W, Zhang W, Zhao D, Wang Q, Zhang M, Li Q, Zhu W, Xu C. Unveiling the role of regulatory T cells in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer through single-cell transcriptomics and in vitro experiments. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1242909. [PMID: 37753069 PMCID: PMC10518406 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1242909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In order to investigate the impact of Treg cell infiltration on the immune response against pancreatic cancer within the tumor microenvironment (TME), and identify crucial mRNA markers associated with Treg cells in pancreatic cancer, our study aims to delve into the role of Treg cells in the anti-tumor immune response of pancreatic cancer. Methods The ordinary transcriptome data for this study was sourced from the GEO and TCGA databases. It was analyzed using single-cell sequencing analysis and machine learning. To assess the infiltration level of Treg cells in pancreatic cancer tissues, we employed the CIBERSORT method. The identification of genes most closely associated with Treg cells was accomplished through the implementation of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Our analysis of single-cell sequencing data involved various quality control methods, followed by annotation and advanced analyses such as cell trajectory analysis and cell communication analysis to elucidate the role of Treg cells within the pancreatic cancer microenvironment. Additionally, we categorized the Treg cells into two subsets: Treg1 associated with favorable prognosis, and Treg2 associated with poor prognosis, based on the enrichment scores of the key genes. Employing the hdWGCNA method, we analyzed these two subsets to identify the critical signaling pathways governing their mutual transformation. Finally, we conducted PCR and immunofluorescence staining in vitro to validate the identified key genes. Results Based on the results of immune infiltration analysis, we observed significant infiltration of Treg cells in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment. Subsequently, utilizing the WGCNA and machine learning algorithms, we ultimately identified four Treg cell-related genes (TRGs), among which four genes exhibited significant correlations with the occurrence and progression of pancreatic cancer. Among them, CASP4, TOB1, and CLEC2B were associated with poorer prognosis in pancreatic cancer patients, while FYN showed a correlation with better prognosis. Notably, significant differences were found in the HIF-1 signaling pathway between Treg1 and Treg2 cells identified by the four genes. These conclusions were further validated through in vitro experiments. Conclusion Treg cells played a crucial role in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment, and their presence held a dual significance. Recognizing this characteristic was vital for understanding the limitations of Treg cell-targeted therapies. CASP4, FYN, TOB1, and CLEC2B exhibited close associations with infiltrating Treg cells in pancreatic cancer, suggesting their involvement in Treg cell functions. Further investigation was warranted to uncover the mechanisms underlying these associations. Notably, the HIF-1 signaling pathway emerged as a significant pathway contributing to the duality of Treg cells. Targeting this pathway could potentially revolutionize the existing treatment approaches for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjia Zhang
- Shanghai Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongxu Zhao
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, School of the Secondary Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wenxin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kunshan Third People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunfang Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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17
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Nicola Candia AJ, Garcia Fallit M, Peña Agudelo JA, Pérez Küper M, Gonzalez N, Moreno Ayala MA, De Simone E, Giampaoli C, Casares N, Seilicovich A, Lasarte JJ, Zanetti FA, Candolfi M. Targeting FOXP3 Tumor-Intrinsic Effects Using Adenoviral Vectors in Experimental Breast Cancer. Viruses 2023; 15:1813. [PMID: 37766222 PMCID: PMC10537292 DOI: 10.3390/v15091813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulatory T cell master transcription factor, Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), has been detected in cancer cells; however, its role in breast tumor pathogenesis remains controversial. Here we assessed Foxp3 tumor intrinsic effects in experimental breast cancer using a Foxp3 binder peptide (P60) that impairs Foxp3 nuclear translocation. Cisplatin upregulated Foxp3 expression in HER2+ and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Foxp3 inhibition with P60 enhanced chemosensitivity and reduced cell survival and migration in human and murine breast tumor cells. We also developed an adenoviral vector encoding P60 (Ad.P60) that efficiently transduced breast tumor cells, reduced cell viability and migration, and improved the cytotoxic response to cisplatin. Conditioned medium from transduced breast tumor cells contained lower levels of IL-10 and improved the activation of splenic lymphocytes. Intratumoral administration of Ad.P60 in breast-tumor-bearing mice significantly reduced tumor infiltration of Tregs, delayed tumor growth, and inhibited the development of spontaneous lung metastases. Our results suggest that Foxp3 exerts protumoral intrinsic effects in breast cancer cells and that gene-therapy-mediated blockade of Foxp3 could constitute a therapeutic strategy to improve the response of these tumors to standard treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro J. Nicola Candia
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Matías Garcia Fallit
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina
| | - Jorge A. Peña Agudelo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Melanie Pérez Küper
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Nazareno Gonzalez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Mariela A. Moreno Ayala
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Emilio De Simone
- Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1428BFA, Argentina
| | - Carla Giampaoli
- Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1428BFA, Argentina
| | - Noelia Casares
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA, CUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.C.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Adriana Seilicovich
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Juan José Lasarte
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA, CUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.C.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Flavia A. Zanetti
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología “Dr. Cesar Milstein”, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Saladillo C1440FFX, Buenos Aires, Argentina;
| | - Marianela Candolfi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121A6B, Argentina; (A.J.N.C.); (A.S.)
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18
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Zhang Z, Wang G, Shao X, Wu H, Su X, Zhu L, Ji Z. A Novel Prognostic Biomarker CCR8 for Gastric Cancer and Anti-CCR8 Blockade Attenuate the Immunosuppressive Capacity of Tregs In Vitro. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2023; 38:415-424. [PMID: 37102694 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2022.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the immunotherapeutic roles and functions of C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 8 (CCR8) molecule in gastric cancer (GC). Materials and Methods: Clinicopathological features of 95 GC cases were collected by a follow-up survey. The expression level of CCR8 was measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and analyzed with the cancer genome atlas database. The relationship between CCR8 expression and Clinicopathological features of GC cases was evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Flow cytometry was used to determine the expression of cytokines and the proliferation of CD4+ regulator T cells (Tregs) and CD8+ T cells. Results: An upregulated expression of CCR8 in GC tissues was associated with tumor grade, nodal metastasis, and overall survival (OS). Tumor-infiltrated Tregs with higher expression of CCR8 produced more IL10 molecules in vitro. In addition, anti-CCR8 blocking downregulated IL10 expression produced by CD4+ Tregs, and reversed the suppression by Tregs on the secretion and proliferation of CD8+ T cells. Conclusion: CCR8 molecule could be a prognostic biomarker for GC cases and a therapeutic target for immune treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Zhang
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Shao
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hailu Wu
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Su
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Long Zhu
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenling Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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19
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Lagou MK, Karagiannis GS. Obesity-induced thymic involution and cancer risk. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 93:3-19. [PMID: 37088128 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Declining thymic functions associated either with old age (i.e., age-related thymic involution), or with acute involution as a result of stress, infectious disease, or cytoreductive therapies (e.g., chemotherapy/radiotherapy), have been associated with cancer development. A key mechanism underlying such increased cancer risk is the thymus-dependent debilitation of adaptive immunity, which is responsible for orchestrating immunoediting mechanisms and tumor immune surveillance. In the past few years, a blooming set of evidence has intriguingly linked obesity with cancer development and progression. The majority of such studies has focused on obesity-driven chronic inflammation, steroid/sex hormone and adipokine production, and hyperinsulinemia, as principal factors affecting the tumor microenvironment and driving the development of primary malignancy. However, experimental observations about the negative impact of obesity on T cell development and maturation have existed for more than half a century. Here, we critically discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms of obesity-driven thymic involution as a previously underrepresented intermediary pathology leading to cancer development and progression. This knowledge could be especially relevant in the context of childhood obesity, because impaired thymic function in young individuals leads to immune system abnormalities, and predisposes to various pediatric cancers. A thorough understanding behind the molecular and cellular circuitries governing obesity-induced thymic involution could therefore help towards the rationalized development of targeted thymic regeneration strategies for obese individuals at high risk of cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Lagou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Tumor Microenvironment of Metastasis Program, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - George S Karagiannis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Tumor Microenvironment of Metastasis Program, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Cancer Dormancy and Tumor Microenvironment Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Integrated Imaging Program for Cancer Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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20
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Cadenas-De Miguel S, Lucianer G, Elia I. The metabolic cross-talk between cancer and T cells. Trends Biochem Sci 2023; 48:597-609. [PMID: 37080875 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
The metabolic cross-talk between cancer cells and T cells dictates cancer formation and progression. These cells possess metabolic plasticity. Thus, they adapt their metabolic profile to meet their phenotypic requirements. However, the nutrient microenvironment of a tumor is a very hostile niche in which these cells are forced to compete for the available nutrients. The hyperactive metabolism of tumor cells often outcompetes the antitumorigenic CD8+ T cells while promoting the protumorigenic exhausted CD8+ T cells and T regulatory (Treg) cells. Thus, cancer cells elude the immune response and spread in an uncontrolled manner. Identifying the metabolic pathways necessary to shift the balance from a protumorigenic to an antitumorigenic immune phenotype is essential to potentiate antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Lucianer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilaria Elia
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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21
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Park SH, Eun R, Heo J, Lim YT. Nanoengineered drug delivery in cancer immunotherapy for overcoming immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2015-2031. [PMID: 36581707 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01282-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Almost like a living being in and of itself, tumors actively interact with and modify their environment to escape immune responses. Owing to the pre-formation of cancer-favorable microenvironment prior to anti-cancer treatment, the numerous attempts that followed propose limited efficacy in oncology. Immunogenicity by activation of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment or recruitment of immune cells from nearby lymph nodes is quickly offset as the immunosuppressive environment, rapidly converting immunogenic cells into immune suppressive cells, overriding the immune system. Tumor cells, as well as regulatory cells, namely M2 macrophages, Treg cells, and MDSCs, derived by the immunosuppressive environment, also cloak from potential anti-tumoral factors by directly or indirectly secreting cytokines, such as IL-10 and TGF-β, related to immune regulation. Enzymes and other metabolic or angiogenetic constituents - VEGF, IDO1, and iNOS - are also employed directed for anti-cancer immune cell malfunctioning. Therefore, the conversion of "cold" immunosuppressive environment into "hot" immune responsive environment is of paramount importance, bestowing the advances in the field of cancer immunotherapy the opportunity to wholly fulfill its intended purpose. This paper reviews the mechanisms by which tumors wield to exercise immune suppression and the nanoengineered delivery strategies being developed to overcome this suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sei Hyun Park
- SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Department of Nano Science and Technology, Department of Nano Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, and Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ryounho Eun
- SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Department of Nano Science and Technology, Department of Nano Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, and Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Janghun Heo
- SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Department of Nano Science and Technology, Department of Nano Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, and Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Taik Lim
- SKKU Advanced Institute of Nanotechnology (SAINT), Department of Nano Science and Technology, Department of Nano Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, and Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Yao J, Liang Z, Duan L, G Y, Liu J, An G. Construction of a novel immune response prediction signature to predict the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15925. [PMID: 37484396 PMCID: PMC10360603 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15925] [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: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment has enhanced survival outcomes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of immunotherapy in ccRCC patients is restricted and we intended to develop and characterize an immune response prediction signature (IRPS) to forecast the efficacy of immunotherapy. Methods RNA-seq expression profile and clinicopathologic characteristics of 539 kidney cancer and 72 patients with normal specimens, were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, while the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used as the validation set, which included 24 ccRCC samples. Utilization of the TCGA data and immune genes databases (ImmPort and the InnateDB), we explored through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), along with Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator method (LASSO), and constructed an IRPS for kidney cancer patients. GSEA and CIBERSORT were performed to declare the molecular and immunologic mechanism underlying the predictive value of IRPS. The Human Protein Atlas (HPA) was deployed to verify the protein expressions of IRPS genes. Tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) score and immunophenoscore (IPS) were computed to determine the risk of immune escape and value the discrimination of IRPS. A ccRCC cohort with anti-PD-1 therapy was obtained as an external validation data set to verify the predictive value of IRPS. Results We constructed a 10 gene signature related to the prognosis and immune response of ccRCC patients. Considering the IRPS risk score, patients were split into high and low risk groups. Patients with high risk in the TCGA cohort tended towards advanced tumor stage and grade with poor prognosis (p < 0.001), which was validated in GEO database (p = 0.004). High-risk group tumors were related with lower PD-L1 expression, higher TMB, higher MSIsensor score, lower IPS, higher TIDE score, and enriched Treg cells, which might be the potential mechanism of immune dysfunction and exclusion. Patients in the IRPS low risk group had better PFS (HR:0.73; 95% CI: 0.54-1.0; P = 0.047). Conclusion A novel biomarker of IRPS was constructed to predict the benefit of immunotherapy, which might lead to more individualized prognoses and tailored therapy for kidney cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Yao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Ziwei Liang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Ling Duan
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Yang G
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
- Medical Research Center, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Guangyu An
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
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23
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Di Pilato M, Gao Y, Sun Y, Fu A, Grass C, Seeholzer T, Feederle R, Mazo I, Kazer SW, Litchfield K, von Andrian UH, Mempel TR, Jenkins RW, Krappmann D, Keller P. Translational Studies Using the MALT1 Inhibitor ( S)-Mepazine to Induce Treg Fragility and Potentiate Immune Checkpoint Therapy in Cancer. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOTHERAPY AND PRECISION ONCOLOGY 2023; 6:61-73. [PMID: 37214210 PMCID: PMC10195017 DOI: 10.36401/jipo-22-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis but also protect tumors from immune-mediated growth control or rejection and pose a significant barrier to effective immunotherapy. Inhibition of MALT1 paracaspase activity can selectively reprogram immune-suppressive Tregs in the tumor microenvironment to adopt a proinflammatory fragile state, which offers an opportunity to impede tumor growth and enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy (ICT). Methods We performed preclinical studies with the orally available allosteric MALT1 inhibitor (S)-mepazine as a single-agent and in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) ICT to investigate its pharmacokinetic properties and antitumor effects in several murine tumor models as well as patient-derived organotypic tumor spheroids (PDOTS). Results (S)-mepazine demonstrated significant antitumor effects and was synergistic with anti-PD-1 therapy in vivo and ex vivo but did not affect circulating Treg frequencies in healthy rats at effective doses. Pharmacokinetic profiling revealed favorable drug accumulation in tumors to concentrations that effectively blocked MALT1 activity, potentially explaining preferential effects on tumor-infiltrating over systemic Tregs. Conclusions The MALT1 inhibitor (S)-mepazine showed single-agent anticancer activity and presents a promising opportunity for combination with PD-1 pathway-targeted ICT. Activity in syngeneic tumor models and human PDOTS was likely mediated by induction of tumor-associated Treg fragility. This translational study supports ongoing clinical investigations (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04859777) of MPT-0118, (S)-mepazine succinate, in patients with advanced or metastatic treatment-refractory solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Di Pilato
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yun Gao
- Monopteros Therapeutics, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yi Sun
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amina Fu
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carina Grass
- Research Unit Signaling and Translation - Signaling and Immunity, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz Munich–German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Seeholzer
- Research Unit Signaling and Translation - Signaling and Immunity, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz Munich–German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Regina Feederle
- Monoclonal Antibody Core Facility, Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Zentrum München–German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Irina Mazo
- Monopteros Therapeutics, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Samuel W. Kazer
- Monopteros Therapeutics, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin Litchfield
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | | | - Thorsten R. Mempel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russell W. Jenkins
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Krappmann
- Research Unit Signaling and Translation - Signaling and Immunity, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz Munich–German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
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He LH, Zhang XZ, Lao MY, Zhang HJ, Yang HS, Bai XL. Immune Checkpoint Neuropilins as Novel Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082225. [PMID: 37190154 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The traditional immune checkpoint blockade therapy benefits some patients with cancer, but elicits no response in certain cancers, such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD); thus, novel checkpoints and effective targets are required. Here, we found that there was a higher Neuropilin (NRP) expression in tumor tissues as novel immune checkpoints, which was associated with poor prognosis and pessimistic responses to immune checkpoint blockade therapy. In the tumor microenvironment of PAAD samples, NRPs were widely expressed in tumor, immune and stromal cells. The relationship of NRPs with tumor immunological features in PAAD and pan-cancer was evaluated using bioinformatics methods; it was positively correlated with the infiltration of myeloid immune cells and the expression of most immune checkpoint genes. Bioinformatics analysis, in vitro and in vivo experiments suggested that NRPs exhibit potential immune-related and immune-independent pro-tumor effects. NRPs, especially NRP1, are attractive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancers, particularly PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hong He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Zhen Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Meng-Yi Lao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Han-Jia Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Han-Shen Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xue-Li Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for the Study of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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Kothari N, Postwala H, Pandya A, Shah A, Shah Y, Chorawala MR. Establishing the applicability of cancer vaccines in combination with chemotherapeutic entities: current aspect and achievable prospects. Med Oncol 2023; 40:135. [PMID: 37014489 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02003-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is one of the recently developed cancer treatment modalities. When compared with conventional anticancer drug regimens, immunotherapy has shown significantly better outcomes in terms of quality of life and overall survival. It incorporates a wide range of immunomodulatory modalities that channel the effects of the immune system either by broadly modulating the host immune system or by accurately targeting distinct tumor antigens. One such treatment modality that has gained interest is cancer vaccine therapy which acts by developing antibodies against tumor cells. Cancer vaccines target individual peptides or groups of antigens that are released by tumor cells and presented by the APCs. This also initiates an effective process to activate the host immune responses. Studies on various types of cancer vaccines are conducted, out of which only few are approved by FDA for clinical uses. Despite of documented safety and efficacy of conventional chemotherapy and cancer vaccines, individually they did not produce substantial results in eradication of the cancer as a monotherapy. Hence, the combination approach holds the extensive potential to provide significant improvement in disease outcomes. Certain chemotherapy has immunomodulatory effects and is proven to synergize with cancer vaccines thereby enhancing their anti-tumor activities. Chemotherapeutic agents are known to have immunostimulatory mechanisms apart from its cytotoxic effect and intensify the anti-tumor activities of vaccines by various mechanisms. This review highlights various cancer vaccines, their mechanism, and how their activity gets affected by chemotherapeutic agents. It also aims at summarizing the evidence-based outcome of the combination approach of a cancer vaccine with chemotherapy and a brief on future aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirjari Kothari
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Humzah Postwala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Aanshi Pandya
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Aayushi Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Yesha Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Mehul R Chorawala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India.
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26
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Facile preparation of a metal-phenolic network-based lymph node targeting nanovaccine for antitumor immunotherapy. Acta Biomater 2023; 158:510-524. [PMID: 36603733 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.12.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer vaccines are being explored for enhanced cancer immunotherapy and prophylaxis. Some of their prevailing weaknesses, however, such as complicated preparation, poor biocompatibility, and failure to elicit strong cellular immune responses, have limited their further clinical applications. Here, we reported a multifunctional nanovaccine that was prepared in a quick and simple way. During the self-assembly of metal-phenolic networks (MPNs), the antigen ovalbumin (OVA) and immunoreactive chlorogenic acid (CHA) were simultaneously loaded. Owing to its dual pH and reduction sensitivities, the nanovaccine could deliver antigens into the cytoplasm of dendritic cells (DCs) and facilitate the cross-presentation of antigens. Moreover, the results of in vivo immunization assays demonstrated that the nanovaccine significantly excited the antigen presentation of DCs and provoked a robust cellular immune response with the restrained activation of regulatory T cells (Tregs), by targeting lymph nodes and executing the function of CHA. In vivo antitumor assays indicated that the nanovaccine with good biocompatibility afforded conspicuous cancer treatment and prevention effects. Overall, the nanovaccine presented in this study shows a promise for potentiating cancer immunotherapy by the lymph node-targeted delivery. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer nanovaccines can be used for cancer immunotherapy. However, some existing shortcomings, such as cumbersome preparation, poor biocompatibility, and failure to elicit strong immune responses, limit the clinical application of cancer nanovaccines. This study developed a multifunctional nanovaccine that was readily prepared through the self-assembly of metal-phenolic networks. The nanovaccine with dual pH and reduction sensitivities could efficiently promote the antigen lysosome escape and cross-presentation. In vivo, it efficiently delivered antigen into lymph nodes and provoked strong cellular immune responses, and thus it showed significant cancer immunotherapy and prevention effect.
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27
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Fang Y, Chen S, Zhang M, Lin X, Jin X, Zhang M, Liu Y, Wang Y, Shi K. Tailoring biomimetic dual-redox-responsive nanoplexes for enhanced RNAi-synergized photodynamic cancer immunotherapy. Acta Biomater 2023:S1742-7061(23)00086-7. [PMID: 36792046 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite the strong potential of RNA interference (RNAi) therapies, critical issues, such as poor permeability across biological membranes and efficacy of their delivery into the cytoplasm, remain to be addressed before their successful clinical application. The current study aimed to address these issues by constructing a biomimetic nanoplex with dual redox responsiveness, which is derived from a cationic polymer formed by the condensation of endogenous spermine monomers via diselenide bonds. The developed nanoplexes decomposed in response to the redox microenvironment in cancer cells, thereby avoiding accumulation toxicity and poor transfection efficiency owing to incomplete siRNA release. When co-delivered with siPDL1 and a photosensitizer, the reactive oxygen species generated by irradiated nanoplexes accelerated the cytoplasmic release of siPDL1, which was expected to alleviate the PDT-induced increase in immunosuppressive PD-L1 expression. In a murine model of 4T1 xenografted breast cancer, the fabricated macrophage membrane (MPM)-camouflaged nanoplexes with payloads boosted antitumor immune responses in situ through a "self-synergistic" immunogenic cell death induced by photodynamic therapy (PDT). Overall, the study reported a new strategy for harnessing photodynamic immunotherapy for treating immunologically cold tumors. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides a biomimetic nanoplex with dual redox responsiveness, which is derived from a novel cationic polymer formed by the condensation of endogenous spermine monomers through diselenide bonds. The developed nanoplex disassembles according to the redox microenvironment in cancer cells, thereby avoiding accumulation toxicity and poor transfection efficiency due to incomplete siRNA release. When co-delivery of siPDL1 and photosensitizer in vivo, the ROS generated by irradiated nanoplexes accelerated the cytoplasmic release of siPDL1, and which is expected to alleviate PDT-induced increase in immunosuppressive PD-L1 expression, thereby boosting antitumor immune responses in situ through a "self-synergistic" immunogenic cell death induced by PDT. Our findings reveal a new strategy of harnessing photodynamic immunotherapy therapy toward immunologically cold tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shuai Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Mingyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xiaojie Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xuechao Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yunmeng Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yaxin Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Kai Shi
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Iglesias-Escudero M, Arias-González N, Martínez-Cáceres E. Regulatory cells and the effect of cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:26. [PMID: 36739406 PMCID: PMC9898962 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01714-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Several mechanisms and cell types are involved in the regulation of the immune response. These include mostly regulatory T cells (Tregs), regulatory macrophages (Mregs), myeloid suppressor cells (MDSCs) and other regulatory cell types such as tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDCs), regulatory B cells (Bregs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These regulatory cells, known for their ability to suppress immune responses, can also suppress the anti-tumor immune response. The infiltration of many regulatory cells into tumor tissues is therefore associated with a poor prognosis. There is growing evidence that elimination of Tregs enhances anti-tumor immune responses. However, the systemic depletion of Treg cells can simultaneously cause deleterious autoimmunity. Furthermore, since regulatory cells are characterized by their high level of expression of immune checkpoints, it is also expected that immune checkpoint inhibitors perform part of their function by blocking these molecules and enhancing the immune response. This indicates that immunotherapy does not only act by activating specific effector T cells but can also directly or indirectly attenuate the suppressive activity of regulatory cells in tumor tissues. This review aims to draw together our current knowledge about the effect of immunotherapy on the various types of regulatory cells, and how these effects may be beneficial in the response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Iglesias-Escudero
- Immunology Division, LCMN, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital and Research Institute, Campus Can Ruti, Badalona, Spain. .,Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Noelia Arias-González
- grid.411438.b0000 0004 1767 6330Immunology Division, LCMN, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital and Research Institute, Campus Can Ruti, Badalona, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Cáceres
- Immunology Division, LCMN, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital and Research Institute, Campus Can Ruti, Badalona, Spain. .,Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
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The Tumor Microenvironment in Tumorigenesis and Therapy Resistance Revisited. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020376. [PMID: 36672326 PMCID: PMC9856874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis is a complex and dynamic process involving cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions that allow tumor cell growth, drug resistance and metastasis. This review provides an updated summary of the role played by the tumor microenvironment (TME) components and hypoxia in tumorigenesis, and highlight various ways through which tumor cells reprogram normal cells into phenotypes that are pro-tumorigenic, including cancer associated- fibroblasts, -macrophages and -endothelial cells. Tumor cells secrete numerous factors leading to the transformation of a previously anti-tumorigenic environment into a pro-tumorigenic environment. Once formed, solid tumors continue to interact with various stromal cells, including local and infiltrating fibroblasts, macrophages, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, and secreted factors and the ECM within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is key to tumorigenesis, drug response and treatment outcome. Importantly, stromal cells and secreted factors can initially be anti-tumorigenic, but over time promote tumorigenesis and induce therapy resistance. To counter hypoxia, increased angiogenesis leads to the formation of new vascular networks in order to actively promote and sustain tumor growth via the supply of oxygen and nutrients, whilst removing metabolic waste. Angiogenic vascular network formation aid in tumor cell metastatic dissemination. Successful tumor treatment and novel drug development require the identification and therapeutic targeting of pro-tumorigenic components of the TME including cancer-associated- fibroblasts (CAFs) and -macrophages (CAMs), hypoxia, blocking ECM-receptor interactions, in addition to the targeting of tumor cells. The reprogramming of stromal cells and the immune response to be anti-tumorigenic is key to therapeutic success. Lastly, this review highlights potential TME- and hypoxia-centered therapies under investigation.
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Li H, Lan H, Li M, Pu X, Guo Y. A new molecular subclassification and in silico predictions for diagnosis and prognosis of papillary thyroid cancer by alternative splicing profile. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1119789. [PMID: 36950012 PMCID: PMC10025316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1119789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common endocrine malignancy. However, different PTC variants reveal high heterogeneity at histological, cytological, molecular and clinicopathological levels, which complicates the precise diagnosis and management of PTC. Alternative splicing (AS) has been reported to be potential cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Method: Here, we aim to find a more sophisticated molecular subclassification and characterization for PTC by integrating AS profiling. Based on six differentially expressed alternative splicing (DEAS) events, a new molecular subclassification was proposed to reclassify PTC into three new groups named as Cluster0, Cluster1 and Cluster2 respectively. Results: An in silico prediction was performed for accurate recognition of new groups with the average accuracy of 91.2%. Moreover, series of analyses were implemented to explore the differences of clinicopathology, molecular and immune characteristics across them. It suggests that there are remarkable differences among them, but Cluster2 was characterized by poor prognosis, higher immune heterogeneity and more sensitive to anti-PD1 therapy. The splicing correlation networks proved the complicated regulation relationships between AS events and splicing factors (SFs). An independent prognostic indicator for PTC overall survival (OS) was established. Finally, three compounds (orantinib, tyrphostin-AG-1295 and AG-370) were discovered to be the potential therapeutic agents. Discussion: Overall, the six DEAS events are not only potential biomarkers for precise diagnosis of PTC, but also the probable prognostic predictors. This research would be expected to highlight the effect of AS events on PTC characterization and also provide new insights into refining precise subclassification and improving medical therapy for PTC patients.
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You J, Bian J, Chen J, Xia T, Deng A, Zhang M, Liao Y, Wen H, Xu Z. TNFSF15 and MIA Variant Associated with Immunotherapy and Prognostic Evaluation in Esophageal Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2023; 2023:1248024. [PMID: 36936375 PMCID: PMC10023233 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1248024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Esophageal cancer (ESCA) is a common gastrointestinal tumor, and China is one of the regions with a high incidence. Tumor immune-related cells play important roles in the tumorigenesis and development of ESCA. However, the role of tumor immune-related genes in the development of ESCA has not been established. Methods In this study, weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to analyze ESCA gene expression using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Gene expression was associated with clinical traits, and modules related to CD8+T cells, dendritic cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were obtained. Results The GO analysis showed that inflammatory chemotaxis networks were activated by cell chemotaxis, chemokine activity, and chemokine binding receptor. Three hub genes (IL17C, TNFSF15, and MIA) related to tumor immunity and metastasis were identified by WGCNA, and the abnormal expression of each hub gene in ESCA has a poor prognosis, especially in patients with high expression (P < 0.05). The risk assessment analysis also showed that tumor stage was positively correlated with tumor risk in ESCA (P < 0.05). Therefore, more than 50 pairs of tumor tissues from the T1-T3 stages with different degrees of differentiation and paracancerous tissues were selected to confirm the expression of the three genes using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence (IF). The infiltration of CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues was lower than that in normal tissues. According to the RT-qPCR, the expressions of IL17 C, TNFSF15, and MIA in moderately and poorly differentiated tissues were significantly higher than those in normal tissues (P < 0.05). In contrast, their expressions were decreased in high differentiated tissues (P < 0.05). Furthermore, IL17C, TNFSF15, and MIA were all positively correlated with immune checkpoint PD-1; TNFSF15 and MIA were also positively correlated with CTLA4, TIGIT, and CD96. Conclusion In summary, IL17C, TNFSF15, and MIA may act as biomarkers for prognosis in moderately and poorly differentiated ESCAs, and they may be used as predictive genes of immunotherapy associated with CD8+ T cell and Tregs invasion in ESCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun You
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
- 2People's Hospital of Leshan, Leshan 614000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaojiao Bian
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jian Chen
- 3Department of Thoracic Surgery, Rheumatic Hematology Department, Nuclear Medicine Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianqin Xia
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - Ailu Deng
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- 4Nanchong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - YiChen Liao
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
| | - Huling Wen
- 5Cancer Hospital, Affiliated to Medical College of Shantou University, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Zhengmin Xu
- 1Institute of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Rheumatic Hematology Department of Affiliated Hospital, Translational Medicine Research Center, Institute of Hepatobiliary Research, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan, China
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Ma S, Guo J, Zhang X, Yang Y, Bao Y, Zhang S, Li T. The exploration of new biomarkers for oral cancer through the ceRNA network and immune microenvironment analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e32249. [PMID: 36626444 PMCID: PMC9750585 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) and tumor-penetrating immune cells may be related to the prognosis of oral cancer. However, few studies have focused on the correlation between ceRNAs and immune cells. Thus, we developed a method based on a ceRNA network and tumor-infiltrating immune cells to elucidate the molecular pathways that may predict prognosis in patients with oral cancer. Download RNAseq expression data of oral cancer and control samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), obtain differentially expressed genes and establish a ceRNA network. The cox analysis and lasso regression analysis were used to screen key RNAs to establish a prognostic risk assessment model, and draw a 1.3.5-year forecast nomogram. Then the CIBERSORT algorithm was used to screen important tumor immune infiltrating cells associated with oral cancer. Another prognostic predictive model related to immune cells was established. Finally, co-expression analysis was applied to explore the relationship between key genes in the ceRNA network and important immune cells. Multiple external data sets are used to test the expression of key biomarkers. We constructed prognostic risk models of ceRNA and immune cells, which included 9 differentially expressed mRNAs and 2 types of immune cells. It was discovered from the co-expression analysis that a pair of important biomarkers were associated with the prognosis of oral cancer. T cells regulatory and CGNL1 (R = 0.39, P < .001) showed a significant positive correlation. External data set validation also supports this result. In this study, we found that some crucial ceRNAs (GGCT, TRPS1, CGNL1, HENMT1, LCE3A, S100A8, ZNF347, TMEM144, TMEM192) and immune cells (T cells regulatory and Eosinophils) may be related to the prognosis of oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Ma
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, oral and maxillofacial surgery, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jie Guo
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Department of Stomatology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, oral and maxillofacial surgery, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yongchao Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, oral and maxillofacial surgery, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yang Bao
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Department of Stomatology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Suxin Zhang
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Department of Stomatology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Tianke Li
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Department of Stomatology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- * Correspondence: Tianke Li, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Department of Stomatology, 12 Jiankang Road, Chang’an District, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050011, China (e-mail: )
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Jiang M, Yang Y, Niu L, Li P, Chen Y, Liao P, Wang Y, Zheng J, Chen F, He H, Li H, Chen X. MiR-125b-5p modulates the function of regulatory T cells in tumor microenvironment by targeting TNFR2. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005241. [PMID: 36319063 PMCID: PMC9628696 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005241] [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] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2 (TNFR2) is primarily expressed by CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), especially those present in tumor microenvironment. There is compelling evidence that TNFR2 plays a crucial role in the activation, expansion, and phenotypic stability of Tregs and promotes tumor immune evasion. Understanding of epigenetic regulation of TNFR2 expression in Tregs may help device a novel strategy in cancer immunotherapy. METHODS MiR-125b-5p-overexpressing or knockdown murine CD4 T cells and Tregs were constructed, and the effect of miR-125b-5p on Tregs proliferation, suppressive function and TNFR2 expression were examined. In vivo antitumor efficacy of Ago-125b-5p (miR-125b-5p agomir) was evaluated in MC38 tumor bearing mice, and tumor-infiltrating Tregs and CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were analyzed. RNA-seq analysis was applied to reveal the genes and signaling pathways regulated by miR-125b-5p in Tregs. RESULTS In this study, we found that TNFR2 was a direct target of miR-125b-5p. Overexpression of miR-125b-5p decreased the proportion of Tregs and their expression of TNFR2 and consequently inhibited its proliferation and suppressive function by regulating the metabolism-related signaling pathways. Moreover, in colon cancer bearing mice, the administration of Ago-125b-5p markedly inhibited the tumor growth, which was associated with reduction of Tregs and increase of IFNγ+CD8+ T cells in tumor environment. Furthermore, in human colon adenocarcinoma patients, we verified that miR-125b-5p expression was downregulated, and low levels of miR-125b-5p were associated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, the expression of miR-125b-5p and TNFR2 were negatively correlated. CONCLUSIONS Our study for the first time found that the expression of TNFR2 by Tregs was regulated by miR-125b-5p. Our results showed that miR-125b-5p had the capacity to inhibit the expression of TNFR2 and immunosuppressive activity of Tregs and consequently enhanced the antitumor efficacy. This property of miR-125b-5p may be therapeutically harnessed in the treatment of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Jiang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Liling Niu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Li
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Yibo Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Ping Liao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Jingbin Zheng
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Fengyang Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Huanhuan He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China,Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau, China,Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China,MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau, China,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Macau, China
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Long M, Mims AS, Li Z. Factors Affecting the Cancer Immunotherapeutic Efficacy of T Cell Bispecific Antibodies and Strategies for Improvement. Immunol Invest 2022; 51:2176-2214. [PMID: 36259611 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2022.2131569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
T-cell bispecific antibodies (T-BsAbs) are a new class of cancer immunotherapy drugs that can simultaneously bind to tumor-associated antigens on target cells and to the CD3 subunit of the T-cell receptor (TCR) on T cells. In the last decade, numerous T-BsAbs have been developed for the treatment of both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Among them, blinatumomab has been successfully used to treat CD19 positive malignancies and has been approved by the FDA as standard care for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, in many clinical scenarios, the efficacy of T-BsAbs remains unsatisfactory. To further improve T-BsAb therapy, it will be crucial to better understand the factors affecting treatment efficacy and the nature of the T-BsAb-induced immune response. Herein, we first review the studies on the potential mechanisms by which T-BsAbs activate T-cells and how they elicit efficient target killing despite suboptimal costimulatory support. We focus on analyzing reports from clinical trials and preclinical studies, and summarize the factors that have been identified to impact the efficacy of T-BsAbs. Lastly, we review current and propose new approaches to improve the clinical efficacy of T-BsAbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixiao Long
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alice S Mims
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Zihai Li
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Qiu Y, Ke S, Chen J, Qin Z, Zhang W, Yuan Y, Meng D, Zhao G, Wu K, Li B, Li D. FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and the immune escape in solid tumours. Front Immunol 2022; 13:982986. [PMID: 36569832 PMCID: PMC9774953 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.982986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells play critical roles in establishing the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, which is achieved and dynamically maintained with the contribution of various stromal and immune cell subsets. However, the dynamics of non-lymphoid FOXP3+ Treg cells and the mutual regulation of Treg cells and other cell types in solid tumour microenvironment remains largely unclear. In this review, we summarize the latest findings on the dynamic connections and reciprocal regulations of non-lymphoid Treg cell subsets in accordance with well-established and new emerging hallmarks of cancer, especially on the immune escape of tumour cells in solid tumours. Our comprehension of the interplay between FOXP3+ Treg cells and key hallmarks of cancer may provide new insights into the development of next-generation engineered T cell-based immune treatments for solid tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Qiu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shouyu Ke
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhizhen Qin
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenle Zhang
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqin Yuan
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dehua Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kejin Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research, Guanghua Integrative Medicine Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine at Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Jin Z, Sun X, Wang Y, Zhou C, Yang H, Zhou S. Regulation of autophagy fires up the cold tumor microenvironment to improve cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018903. [PMID: 36300110 PMCID: PMC9589261 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, have revolutionized the treatment of patients with advanced and metastatic tumors resistant to traditional therapies. However, the immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment (TME) results in a weak response to immunotherapy. Therefore, to realize the full potential of immunotherapy and obstacle barriers, it is essential to explore how to convert cold TME to hot TME. Autophagy is a crucial cellular process that preserves cellular stability in the cellular components of the TME, contributing to the characterization of the immunosuppressive TME. Targeted autophagy ignites immunosuppressive TME by influencing antigen release, antigen presentation, antigen recognition, and immune cell trafficking, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy and overcoming resistance to immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize the characteristics and components of TME, explore the mechanisms and functions of autophagy in the characterization and regulation of TME, and discuss autophagy-based therapies as adjuvant enhancers of immunotherapy to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Jin
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuefeng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaoyao Wang
- Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College/National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haihua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Suna Zhou, ; HaihuaYang,
| | - Suna Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xi’an No.3 Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Suna Zhou, ; HaihuaYang,
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Viveiros N, Flores BC, Lobo J, Martins-Lima C, Cantante M, Lopes P, Deantonio C, Palu C, Sainson RC, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. Detailed bladder cancer immunoprofiling reveals new clues for immunotherapeutic strategies. Clin Transl Immunology 2022; 11:e1402. [PMID: 36092481 PMCID: PMC9440624 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1402] [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: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Bladder cancer (BlCa) is the tenth most frequent malignancy worldwide and the costliest to treat and monitor. Muscle-invasive BlCa (MIBC) has a dismal prognosis, entailing the need for alternative therapies for the standard radical cystectomy. Checkpoint blockade immunotherapy has been approved for high-grade non-muscle-invasive BlCa (HG NMIBC) and metastatic disease, but its effectiveness in localised MIBC remains under scrutiny. Herein, we sought to characterise and compare the immune infiltrate of HG NMIBC and MIBC samples, including ICOS expression, a targetable immune checkpoint associated with regulatory T cell(Tregs)-mediated immunosuppression. Methods Immunohistochemistry for CD83, CD20, CD68, CD163, CD3, CD8, CD4, FoxP3/ICOS and PD-L1 was performed in HG NMIBC and MIBC samples (n = 206), and positive staining was quantified in the peritumoral and/or intratumoral tissue compartments with QuPath imaging software. Results CD20+ B cells, CD68+ and CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages were significantly increased in MIBCs and associated with poor prognosis. In turn, higher infiltration of T cells was associated with prolonged survival, with exception of the CD4+ helper subset. Intratumoral expression of CD3 and CD8 was independent prognostic factors for increased disease-free survival (DFS) in multivariable analysis. Remarkably, Tregs (FoxP3+/FoxP3+ICOS+) were found differentially distributed between tissue compartments. PD-L1 immunoexpression independently predicted a shorter DFS and associated with higher infiltration of FoxP3+ICOS+ Tregs. Conclusions Immune infiltrates of HG NMIBC and MIBC display significant differences that may help selecting patients for immunotherapies. Considering ICOS immunoexpression results, it might constitute a relevant therapeutic target, eventually in combination with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies, for certain BlCa patient subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Viveiros
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal
| | - Bianca Ct Flores
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences- University of Porto (ICBAS-UP) Porto Portugal
| | - Cláudia Martins-Lima
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Precision Medicine University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Naples Italy
| | - Mariana Cantante
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) Porto Portugal
| | - Paula Lopes
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) Porto Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences- University of Porto (ICBAS-UP) Porto Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics 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) Porto Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences- University of Porto (ICBAS-UP) Porto Portugal
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Abdelgalil RM, Elmorshedy YM, Elkhodairy KA, Teleb M, Bekhit AA, Khattab SN, Elzoghby AO. Engineered nanomedicines for augmenting the efficacy of colorectal cancer immunotherapy. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2022; 17:1721-1745. [PMID: 36621872 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most devastating diseases worldwide. Immunotherapeutic agents for CRC treatment have shown limited efficacy due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this context, various types of nanoparticles (NPs) have been used to reverse the immunosuppressive TME, potentiate the effect of immunotherapeutic agents and reduce their systemic side effects. Many advantages could be offered by NPs, related to drug-loading efficiency, particle size and others that can potentially aid the delivery of immunotherapeutic agents. The recent research on how nano-based immunotherapy can remodel the immunosuppressive TME of CRC and hence boost the antitumor immune response, as well as the challenges that face clinical translation of NPs and future perspectives, are summarized in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham M Abdelgalil
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yomna M Elmorshedy
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Kadria A Elkhodairy
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Teleb
- Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Adnan A Bekhit
- Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Pharmacy Program, Allied Health Department, College of Health & Sport Sciences, University of Bahrain, 32038, Riffa, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Sherine N Khattab
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed O Elzoghby
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.,Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, MA 02115, Boston, USA
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Liu Y, Song Y, Yin Q. Effects of ibrutinib on T-cell immunity in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:962552. [PMID: 36059445 PMCID: PMC9437578 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.962552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a highly heterogeneous B-cell malignancy, is characterized by tumor microenvironment disorder and T-cell immune dysfunction, which play a major role in the proliferation and survival of CLL cells. Ibrutinib is the first irreversible inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). In addition to targeting B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling to kill tumor cells, increasing evidence has suggested that ibrutinib regulates the tumor microenvironment and T-cell immunity in a direct and indirect manner. For example, ibrutinib not only reverses the tumor microenvironment by blocking cytokine networks and toll-like receptor signaling but also regulates T cells in number, subset distribution, T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and immune function by inhibiting interleukin-2 inducible T-cell kinase (ITK) and reducing the expression of inhibitory receptors, and so on. In this review, we summarize the current evidence for the effects of ibrutinib on the tumor microenvironment and cellular immunity of patients with CLL, particularly for the behavior and function of T cells, explore its potential mechanisms, and provide a basis for the clinical benefits of long-term ibrutinib treatment and combined therapy based on T-cell-based immunotherapies.
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40
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Zhang T, Yu H, Dai X, Zhang X. CMTM6 and CMTM4 as two novel regulators of PD-L1 modulate the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:971428. [PMID: 35958549 PMCID: PMC9359082 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.971428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays crucial roles in regulating tumor occurrence, progress, metastasis and drug resistance. However, it remains largely elusive how the components of TME are regulated to govern its functions in tumor biology. Here, we discussed how the two novel functional proteins, chemokine-like factor (CKLF)-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing 6 (CMTM6) and CMTM4, which involved in the post-translational regulation of PD-L1, modulate the TME functions. The roles of CMTM6 and CMTM4 in regulating TME components, including immune cells and tumor cells themselves were discussed in this review. The potential clinical applications of CMTM6 and CMTM4 as biomarkers to predict therapy efficacy and as new or combined immunotherapy targets are also highlighted. Finally, the current hot topics for the biological function of CMTM6/4 and several significant research directions for CMTM6/4 are also briefly summarized in the review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haixiang Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangpeng Dai
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiangpeng Dai, ; Xiaoling Zhang,
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Disease, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiangpeng Dai, ; Xiaoling Zhang,
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Shin DS, Park K, Garon E, Dubinett S. Targeting EZH2 to overcome the resistance to immunotherapy in lung cancer. Semin Oncol 2022; 49:S0093-7754(22)00045-8. [PMID: 35851153 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Unleashing the immune system to fight cancer has been a major breakthrough in cancer therapeutics since 2014 when anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab and nivolumab) were approved for patients with metastatic melanoma. Therapeutic indications have rapidly expanded for many types of advanced cancer, including lung cancer. A variety of antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint are contributing to this paradigm shift. The field now confronts two salient challenges: first, to improve the therapeutic outcome given the low response rate across the histologies; second, to identify biomarkers for improved patient selection. Pre-clinical and clinical studies are underway to evaluate combinatorial treatments to improve the therapeutic outcome paired with correlative studies to identify the factors associated with response and resistance. One of the emerging strategies is to combine epigenetic modifiers with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) based on the evidence that targeting epigenetic elements can enhance anti-tumor immunity by reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME). We will briefly review pleotropic biological functions of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the enzymatic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), clinical developments of oral EZH2 inhibitors, and potentially promising approaches to combine EZH2 inhibitors and PD-1 blockade for patients with advanced solid tumors, focusing on lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sanghoon Shin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA.
| | - Kevin Park
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Edward Garon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
| | - Steven Dubinett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Departments of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology University of California Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Division of Hematology/Oncology, CA, USA; Member of Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, CA, USA; Member of Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, CA, USA
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Zhao LP, Hu JH, Hu D, Wang HJ, Huang CG, Luo RH, Zhou ZH, Huang XY, Xie T, Lou JS. Hyperprogression, a challenge of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors treatments: potential mechanisms and coping strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 150:112949. [PMID: 35447545 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is now a mainstay in cancer treatments. Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies have opened up a new venue of advanced cancer immunotherapy. However, hyperprogressive disease (HPD) induced by PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors caused a significant decrease in the overall survival (OS) of the patients, which compromise the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Therefore, HPD has become an urgent issue to be addressed in the clinical uses of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. The mechanisms of HPD remain unclear, and possible predictive factors of HPD are not well understood. In this review, we summarized the potential mechanisms of HPD and coping strategies that can effectively reduce the occurrence and development of HPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ping Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Jun-Hu Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Die Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Hao-Jie Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Chang-Gang Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Ru-Hua Luo
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Zhao-Huang Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Xin-Yun Huang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
| | - Jian-Shu Lou
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Zhejiang 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
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Haist C, Poschinski Z, Bister A, Hoffmann MJ, Grunewald CM, Hamacher A, Kassack M, Wiek C, Scheckenbach K, Hanenberg H. Engineering a single-chain variable fragment of cetuximab for CAR T-cell therapy against head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Oral Oncol 2022; 129:105867. [DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2022.105867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Awad RM, Meeus F, Ceuppens H, Ertveldt T, Hanssens H, Lecocq Q, Mateusiak L, Zeven K, Valenta H, De Groof TWM, De Vlaeminck Y, Krasniqi A, De Veirman K, Goyvaerts C, D'Huyvetter M, Hernot S, Devoogdt N, Breckpot K. Emerging applications of nanobodies in cancer therapy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 369:143-199. [PMID: 35777863 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a heterogeneous disease, requiring treatment tailored to the unique phenotype of the patient's tumor. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and variants thereof have enabled targeted therapies to selectively target cancer cells. Cancer cell-specific mAbs have been used for image-guided surgery and targeted delivery of radionuclides or toxic agents, improving classical treatment strategies. Cancer cell-specific mAbs can further inhibit tumor cell growth or can stimulate immune-mediated destruction of cancer cells, a feature that has also been achieved through mAb-mediated manipulation of immune cells and pathways. Drawbacks of mAbs and their variants, together with the discovery of camelid heavy chain-only antibodies and the many advantageous features of their variable domains, referred to as VHHs, single domain antibodies or nanobodies (Nbs), resulted in the exploration of Nbs as an alternative targeting moiety. We therefore review the state-of-the-art as well as novel exploitation strategies of Nbs for targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Heleen Hanssens
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Quentin Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lukasz Mateusiak
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katty Zeven
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hana Valenta
- Lab for Nanobiology, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Timo W M De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ahmet Krasniqi
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kim De Veirman
- Laboratory for Hematology and Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthias D'Huyvetter
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Hernot
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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45
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Immunosuppressive cells in cancer: mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:61. [PMID: 35585567 PMCID: PMC9118588 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01282-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies like the adoptive transfer of gene-engineered T cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors are novel therapeutic modalities for advanced cancers. However, some patients are refractory or resistant to these therapies, and the mechanisms underlying tumor immune resistance have not been fully elucidated. Immunosuppressive cells such as myeloid-derived suppressive cells, tumor-associated macrophages, tumor-associated neutrophils, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and tumor-associated dendritic cells are critical factors correlated with immune resistance. In addition, cytokines and factors secreted by tumor cells or these immunosuppressive cells also mediate the tumor progression and immune escape of cancers. Thus, targeting these immunosuppressive cells and the related signals is the promising therapy to improve the efficacy of immunotherapies and reverse the immune resistance. However, even with certain success in preclinical studies or in some specific types of cancer, large perspectives are unknown for these immunosuppressive cells, and the related therapies have undesirable outcomes for clinical patients. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the phenotype, function, and potential therapeutic targets of these immunosuppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment.
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46
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Aghanejad A, Bonab SF, Sepehri M, Haghighi FS, Tarighatnia A, Kreiter C, Nader ND, Tohidkia MR. A review on targeting tumor microenvironment: The main paradigm shift in the mAb-based immunotherapy of solid tumors. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 207:592-610. [PMID: 35296439 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as biological macromolecules have been remarked the large and growing pipline of the pharmaceutical market and also the most promising tool in modern medicine for cancer therapy. These therapeutic entities, which consist of whole mAbs, armed mAbs (i.e., antibody-toxin conjugates, antibody-drug conjugates, and antibody-radionuclide conjugates), and antibody fragments, mostly target tumor cells. However, due to intrinsic heterogeneity of cancer diseases, tumor cells targeting mAb have been encountered with difficulties in their unpredictable efficacy as well as variability in remission and durable clinical benefits among cancer patients. To address these pitfalls, the area has undergone two major evolutions with the intent of minimizing anti-drug responses and addressing limitations experienced with tumor cell-targeted therapies. As a novel hallmark of cancer, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is becoming the great importance of attention to develop innovative strategies based on therapeutic mAbs. Here, we underscore innovative strategies targeting TME by mAbs which destroy tumor cells indirectly through targeting vasculature system (e.g., anti-angiogenesis), immune system modulation (i.e., stimulation, suppression, and depletion), the targeting and blocking of stroma-based growth signals (e.g., cancer-associated fibroblasts), and targeting cancer stem cells, as well as, their effector mechanisms, clinical uses, and relevant mechanisms of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayuob Aghanejad
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samad Farashi Bonab
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sepehri
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Haghighi
- Yazd Diabetes Research Center, Shahid Sadoghi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Tarighatnia
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christopher Kreiter
- Department of Anesthesiology, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Nader D Nader
- Department of Anesthesiology, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mohammad Reza Tohidkia
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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47
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Park K, Veena MS, Shin DS. Key Players of the Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:830208. [PMID: 35345849 PMCID: PMC8957227 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.830208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex, dynamic battlefield for both immune cells and tumor cells. The advent of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) since 2011, such as the anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein (CTLA)-4 and anti-programmed cell death receptor (PD)-(L)1 antibodies, provided powerful weapons in the arsenal of cancer treatments, demonstrating unprecedented durable responses for patients with many types of advanced cancers. However, the response rate is generally low across tumor types and a substantial number of patients develop acquired resistance. These primary or acquired resistance are attributed to various immunosuppressive elements (soluble and cellular factors) and alternative immune checkpoints in the TME. Therefore, a better understanding of the TME is absolutely essential to develop therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance. Numerous clinical studies are underway using ICIs and additional agents that are tailored to the characteristics of the tumor or the TME. Some of the combination treatments are already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), such as platinum-doublet chemotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) -targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) combined with anti-PD-(L)1 antibodies or immuno-immuno combinations (anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1). In this review, we will discuss the key immunosuppressive cells, metabolites, cytokines or chemokines, and hypoxic conditions in the TME that contribute to tumor immune escape and the prospect of relevant clinical trials by targeting these elements in combination with ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Park
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mysore S Veena
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Daniel Sanghoon Shin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Molecular Biology Institute, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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48
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Zhang J, Pan S, Jian C, Hao L, Dong J, Sun Q, Jin H, Han X. Immunostimulatory Properties of Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer: From Immunogenic Modulation Mechanisms to Clinical Practice. Front Immunol 2022; 12:819405. [PMID: 35069604 PMCID: PMC8766762 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.819405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among females. Chemotherapy drugs remain the cornerstone of treatment of BC and undergo significant shifts over the past 100 years. The advent of immunotherapy presents promising opportunities and constitutes a significant complementary to existing therapeutic strategies for BC. Chemotherapy as a cytotoxic treatment that targets proliferation malignant cells has recently been shown as an effective immune-stimulus in multiple ways. Chemotherapeutic drugs can cause the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) from dying tumor cells, which result in long-lasting antitumor immunity by the key process of immunogenic cell death (ICD). Furthermore, Off-target effects of chemotherapy on immune cell subsets mainly involve activation of immune effector cells including natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and cytotoxic T cells, and depletion of immunosuppressive cells including Treg cells, M2 macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Current mini-review summarized recent large clinical trials regarding the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in BC and addressed the molecular mechanisms of immunostimulatory properties of chemotherapy in BC. The purpose of our work was to explore the immune-stimulating effects of chemotherapy at the molecular level based on the evidence from clinical trials, which might be a rationale for combinations of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinguo Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Shuaikang Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chen Jian
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Li Hao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qingqing Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hongwei Jin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xinghua Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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49
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Small spleen peptides prevent development of psoriatic arthritis via restoration of peripheral tolerance. Mol Ther 2022; 30:745-762. [PMID: 34450252 PMCID: PMC8821926 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The major challenge in the treatment of autoimmune diseases is the restoration of the impaired peripheral immune tolerance that always accompanies the development of such diseases. Here, we show that small splenic peptides (SSPs) of whole spleen extract efficiently suppress the development of psoriatic arthritis in vivo, even in the presence of sustained levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. SSPs target dendritic cells (DCs) and convert them into tolerogenic cells, which in turn differentiate naive CD4+ cells into Foxp3-expressing T regulatory cells (Tregs). The latter requires direct contact between SSP-activated DCs and naive CD4+ T cells via PD-1 and CTLA4 immune checkpoint receptors of T cells. Finally, depletion of Foxp3+ Tregs in vivo abrogated the protective effect of SSPs on psoriatic arthritis development. We hypothesize that SSPs represent an intrinsic component of the adaptive immune system responsible for the physiological maintenance of peripheral tolerance and that therapeutically administered SSPs are able to restore imbalanced peripheral tolerance in autoimmune diseases.
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50
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Moumné L, Marie AC, Crouvezier N. Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: From Discovery and Development to Patentability. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020260. [PMID: 35213992 PMCID: PMC8876811 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the first proof of concept of using small nucleic acids to modulate gene expression, a long period of maturation led, at the end of the last century, to the first marketing authorization of an oligonucleotide-based therapy. Since then, 12 more compounds have hit the market and many more are in late clinical development. Many companies were founded to exploit their therapeutic potential and Big Pharma was quickly convinced that oligonucleotides could represent credible alternatives to protein-targeting products. Many technologies have been developed to improve oligonucleotide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Initially targeting rare diseases and niche markets, oligonucleotides are now able to benefit large patient populations. However, there is still room for oligonucleotide improvement and further breakthroughs are likely to emerge in the coming years. In this review we provide an overview of therapeutic oligonucleotides. We present in particular the different types of oligonucleotides and their modes of action, the tissues they target and the routes by which they are administered to patients, and the therapeutic areas in which they are used. In addition, we present the different ways of patenting oligonucleotides. We finally discuss future challenges and opportunities for this drug-discovery platform.
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