1
|
Lauer UM, Beil J. Oncolytic viruses: challenges and considerations in an evolving clinical landscape. Future Oncol 2022; 18:2713-2732. [PMID: 35818970 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-0440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in treatment, cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Although treatment strategies are continually progressing, cancers have evolved many mechanisms for evading therapies and the host immune system. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) could provide a much-needed option for cancers that are resistant to existing treatments. OVs can be engineered to specifically target and kill cancer cells, while simultaneously triggering an immune response at the site of infection. This review will focus on the challenges of developing a successful OV and translation to clinical practice, discussing the innovative strategies that are being used to optimize the potential of OVs. Here, we will also explore the current clinical landscape and the prospects of OVs in early clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich M Lauer
- Department of Internal Medicine VIII, Virotherapy Center Tübingen, Medical Oncology & Pneumology, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Mueller-Str. 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Tübingen, Otfried-Mueller-Str. 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Julia Beil
- Department of Internal Medicine VIII, Virotherapy Center Tübingen, Medical Oncology & Pneumology, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Mueller-Str. 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Tübingen, Otfried-Mueller-Str. 10, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cristi F, Gutiérrez T, Hitt MM, Shmulevitz M. Genetic Modifications That Expand Oncolytic Virus Potency. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:831091. [PMID: 35155581 PMCID: PMC8826539 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.831091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are a promising type of cancer therapy since they selectively replicate in tumor cells without damaging healthy cells. Many oncolytic viruses have progressed to human clinical trials, however, their performance as monotherapy has not been as successful as expected. Importantly, recent literature suggests that the oncolytic potential of these viruses can be further increased by genetically modifying the viruses. In this review, we describe genetic modifications to OVs that improve their ability to kill tumor cells directly, to dismantle the tumor microenvironment, or to alter tumor cell signaling and enhance anti-tumor immunity. These advances are particularly important to increase virus spread and reduce metastasis, as demonstrated in animal models. Since metastasis is the principal cause of mortality in cancer patients, having OVs designed to target metastases could transform cancer therapy. The genetic alterations reported to date are only the beginning of all possible improvements to OVs. Modifications described here could be combined together, targeting multiple processes, or with other non-viral therapies with potential to provide a strong and lasting anti-tumor response in cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Cristi
- Shmulevitz Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Tomás Gutiérrez
- Goping Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mary M. Hitt
- Hitt Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Mary M. Hitt, ; Maya Shmulevitz,
| | - Maya Shmulevitz
- Shmulevitz Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Mary M. Hitt, ; Maya Shmulevitz,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Oncolytic viruses: A novel treatment strategy for breast cancer. Genes Dis 2021; 10:430-446. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
4
|
O'Bryan SM, Mathis JM. CXCL12 Retargeting of an Oncolytic Adenovirus Vector to the Chemokine CXCR4 and CXCR7 Receptors in Breast Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 12:311-336. [PMID: 34178415 DOI: 10.4236/jct.2021.126029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women under 60, and the second most diagnosed cancer in women over 60. While significant progress has been made in developing targeted therapies for breast cancer, advanced breast cancer continues to have high mortality, with poor 5-year survival rates. Thus, current therapies are insufficient in treating advanced stages of breast cancer; new treatments are sorely needed to address the complexity of advanced-stage breast cancer. Oncolytic virotherapy has been explored as a therapeutic approach capable of systemic administration, targeting cancer cells, and sparing normal tissue. In particular, oncolytic adenoviruses have been exploited as viral vectors due to their ease of manipulation, production, and demonstrated clinical safety profile. In this study, we engineered an oncolytic adenovirus to target the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7. The overexpression of CXCR4 and CXCR7 is implicated in the initiation, survival, progress, and metastasis of breast cancer. Both receptors bind to the ligand, CXCL12 (SDF-1), which has been identified to play a crucial role in the metastasis of breast cancer cells. This study incorporated a T4 fibritin protein fused to CXCL12 into the tail domain of an adenovirus fiber to retarget the vector to the CXCR4 and CXCR7 chemokine receptors. We showed that the modified virus targets and infects CXCR4- and CXCR7-overexpressing breast cancer cells more efficiently than a wild-type control vector. In addition, the substitution of the wild-type fiber and knob with the modified chimeric fiber did not interfere with oncolytic capability. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the feasibility of retargeting adenovirus vectors to chemokine receptor-positive tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samia M O'Bryan
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana USA
| | - J Michael Mathis
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana USA.,University of North Texas Health Science Center, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang J, Ding M, Xu K, Mao L, Zheng J. shRNA-armed conditionally replicative adenoviruses: a promising approach for cancer therapy. Oncotarget 2018; 7:29824-34. [PMID: 26980708 PMCID: PMC5045436 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) have been employed to knockdown the expression of cancer-associated genes and shown some promise in cancer therapy. However, synthetic siRNA duplexes or plasmid mediated delivery of siRNAs have several problems, such as short half-life, low transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity associated with transfection. Conditionally replicating adenovirus (CRAds) as the delivery vector for short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) could overcome these limitations and have shown augmented anti-tumor effects in experimental studies and preclinical trials. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the development of CRAds-shRNA for cancer treatment. Combination of CRAds-shRNA with chemotherapeutics, radiation, dendritic cells, monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors will be necessary to eradicate cancer cells and cancer stem cells and achieve superior outcomes. The use of CRAd platform for efficient delivery of shRNAs and foreign genes will open a new avenue for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| | - Meng Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| | - Kai Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lijun Mao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Urinary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| | - Junian Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ahmad Z, Kratzke RA. Novel oncolytic viral therapies in patients with thoracic malignancies. Oncolytic Virother 2016; 6:1-9. [PMID: 28053943 PMCID: PMC5189707 DOI: 10.2147/ov.s116012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic virotherapy is the use of replication-competent viruses to treat malignancies. The potential of oncolytic virotherapy as an approach to cancer therapy is based on historical evidence that certain viral infections can cause spontaneous remission of both hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. Oncolytic virotherapy may eliminate cancer cells through either direct oncolysis of infected tumor cells or indirect immune-mediated oncolysis of uninfected tumor cells. Recent advances in oncolytic virotherapy include the development of a wide variety of genetically attenuated RNA viruses with precise cellular tropism and the identification of cell-surface receptors that facilitate viral transfer to the tissue of interest. Current research is also focused on targeting metastatic disease by sustaining the release of progeny viruses from infected tumor cells and understanding indirect tumor cell killing through immune-mediated mechanisms of virotherapy. The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate recent evidence on the clinical development of tissue-specific viruses capable of targeting tumor cells and eliciting secondary immune responses in lung cancers and mesothelioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeeshan Ahmad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Robert A Kratzke
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bramante S, Koski A, Liikanen I, Vassilev L, Oksanen M, Siurala M, Heiskanen R, Hakonen T, Joensuu T, Kanerva A, Pesonen S, Hemminki A. Oncolytic virotherapy for treatment of breast cancer, including triple-negative breast cancer. Oncoimmunology 2015; 5:e1078057. [PMID: 27057453 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2015.1078057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease, characterized by several distinct biological subtypes, among which triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one associated with a poor prognosis. Oncolytic virus replication is an immunogenic phenomenon, and viruses can be armed with immunostimulatory molecules to boost virus triggered antitumoral immune responses. Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a chemotherapy drug that is associated with cytotoxicity and immunosuppression at higher doses, whereas immunostimulatory and anti-angiogenic properties are observed at low continuous dosage. Therefore, the combination of oncolytic immuno-virotherapy with low-dose CP is an appealing approach. We investigated the potency of oncolytic adenovirus Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF on a TNBC cell line and in vivo in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model, in combination with low-dose CP or its main active metabolite 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4-HP-CP). Furthermore, we summarized the breast cancer-specific human data on this virus from the Advanced Therapy Access Program (ATAP). Low-dose CP increased the efficacy of Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF in vitro and in a TNBC mouse model. In ATAP, treatments appeared safe and well-tolerated. Thirteen out of 16 breast cancer patients treated were evaluable for possible benefits with modified RECIST 1.1 criteria: 1 patient had a minor response, 2 had stable disease (SD), and 10 had progressive disease (PD). One patient is alive at 1,771 d after treatment. Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF in combination with low-dose CP showed promising efficacy in preclinical studies and possible antitumor activity in breast cancer patients refractory to other forms of therapy. This preliminary data supports continuing the clinical development of oncolytic adenoviruses for treatment of breast cancer, including TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Bramante
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group , Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anniina Koski
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group , Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilkka Liikanen
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group , Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Minna Oksanen
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group , Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikko Siurala
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Helsinki, Finland; TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd., Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | - Anna Kanerva
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki University Central Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Pesonen
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Helsinki, Finland; Oncos Therapeutics Ltd., Helsinki, Finland
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Helsinki, Finland; TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd., Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki University Central Hospital, Department of Oncology, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lei J, Li QH, Yang JL, Liu F, Wang L, Xu WM, Zhao WX. The antitumor effects of oncolytic adenovirus H101 against lung cancer. Int J Oncol 2015; 47:555-62. [PMID: 26081001 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in both men and women, with dismal survival rates due to late-stage diagnoses and a lack of efficacious therapies. The new treatment options with completely novel mechanism of therapeutic activity are needed for lung cancer to improve patient outcome. The present study was aimed at testing the efficacy of recombinant adenovirus H101 as an oncolytic agent for killing human lung cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. We assessed the coxsackievirus adenovirus receptor (CAR) expression on human lung cancer cell lines by RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry staining. Viral infectivity and viral replication in lung cancer cells was assayed by flow cytometry and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR. After H101 treatment, cytotoxic effect, cell cycle progression and apoptosis were further examined by lactate dehydrogenase release assay and flow cytometry in vitro, respectively. In vivo, antitumor effects of H101 were assessed on SCID Beige mice xenografted with human lung cancer cells. Receptor characterization confirmed that human lung cancer cell lines expressed CAR receptor for adenovirus type 5. Lung cancer cells were sensitive to infection by the H101 virus. H101 infection and replication resulted in very potent cytotoxicity, G2/M phase arrest and cell lysis. In vivo, we also showed that H101 significantly inhibited tumor growth following intratumoral injection, with virus replication, cell degeneration and necrosis in the tumor tissue. These results have important implications for the treatment of human lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Lei
- Department of Pathology, Kunming General Hospital of PLA, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Qi-Hua Li
- College of Science and Technology, Yunnan Agriculture University, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, P.R. China
| | - Ju-Lun Yang
- Department of Pathology, Kunming General Hospital of PLA, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Feng Liu
- School of Life Sciences of Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Pathology, Kunming General Hospital of PLA, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Mang Xu
- Department of Pathology, Kunming General Hospital of PLA, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Xing Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Kunming General Hospital of PLA, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
New therapies for metastatic breast cancer patients are urgently needed. The long-term survival rates remain unacceptably low for patients with recurrent disease or disseminated metastases. In addition, existing therapies often cause a variety of debilitating side effects that severely impact quality of life. Oncolytic viruses constitute a developing therapeutic modality in which interest continues to build due to their ability to spare normal tissue while selectively destroying tumor cells. A number of different viruses have been used to develop oncolytic agents for breast cancer, including herpes simplex virus, adenovirus, vaccinia virus, measles virus, reovirus, and others. In general, clinical trials for several cancers have demonstrated excellent safety records and evidence of efficacy. However, the impressive tumor responses often observed in preclinical studies have yet to be realized in the clinic. In order for the promise of oncolytic virotherapy to be fully realized for breast cancer patients, effectiveness must be demonstrated in metastatic disease. This review provides a summary of oncolytic virotherapy strategies being developed to target metastatic breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas R Hurst
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Parviainen S, Ahonen M, Diaconu I, Hirvinen M, Karttunen Å, Vähä-Koskela M, Hemminki A, Cerullo V. CD40 ligand and tdTomato-armed vaccinia virus for induction of antitumor immune response and tumor imaging. Gene Ther 2013; 21:195-204. [PMID: 24305418 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2013.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Oncolytic vaccinia virus is an attractive platform for immunotherapy. Oncolysis releases tumor antigens and provides co-stimulatory danger signals. However, arming the virus can improve efficacy further. CD40 ligand (CD40L, CD154) can induce apoptosis of tumor cells and it also triggers several immune mechanisms. One of these is a T-helper type 1 (Th1) response that leads to activation of cytotoxic T-cells and reduction of immune suppression. Therefore, we constructed an oncolytic vaccinia virus expressing hCD40L (vvdd-hCD40L-tdTomato), which in addition features a cDNA expressing the tdTomato fluorochrome for detection of virus, potentially important for biosafety evaluation. We show effective expression of functional CD40L both in vitro and in vivo. In a xenograft model of bladder carcinoma sensitive to CD40L treatment, we show that growth of tumors was significantly inhibited by the oncolysis and apoptosis following both intravenous and intratumoral administration. In a CD40-negative model, CD40L expression did not add potency to vaccinia oncolysis. Tumors treated with vvdd-mCD40L-tdtomato showed enhanced efficacy in a syngenic mouse model and induced recruitment of antigen-presenting cells and lymphocytes at the tumor site. In summary, oncolytic vaccinia virus coding for CD40L mediates multiple antitumor effects including oncolysis, apoptosis and induction of Th1 type T-cell responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Parviainen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Ahonen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - I Diaconu
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Hirvinen
- Laboratory of Immunovirotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Division of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki Finland
| | - Å Karttunen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Vähä-Koskela
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Department of Pathology and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - V Cerullo
- Laboratory of Immunovirotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Division of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki Finland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Callegari E, Elamin BK, D’Abundo L, Falzoni S, Donvito G, Moshiri F, Milazzo M, Altavilla G, Giacomelli L, Fornari F, Hemminki A, Di Virgilio F, Gramantieri L, Negrini M, Sabbioni S. Anti-tumor activity of a miR-199-dependent oncolytic adenovirus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73964. [PMID: 24069256 PMCID: PMC3771938 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The down-regulation of miR-199 occurs in nearly all primary hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and HCC cell lines in comparison with normal liver. We exploited this miR-199 differential expression to develop a conditionally replication-competent oncolytic adenovirus, Ad-199T, and achieve tumor-specific viral expression and replication. To this aim, we introduced four copies of miR-199 target sites within the 3’ UTR of E1A gene, essential for viral replication. As consequence, E1A expression from Ad-199T virus was tightly regulated both at RNA and protein levels in HCC derived cell lines, and replication controlled by the level of miR-199 expression. Various approaches were used to asses in vivo properties of Ad-199T. Ad-199T replication was inhibited in normal, miR-199 positive, liver parenchyma, thus resulting in reduced hepatotoxicity. Conversely, the intrahepatic delivery of Ad-199T in newborn mice led to virus replication and fast removal of implanted HepG2 liver cancer cells. The ability of Ad-199T to control tumor growth was also shown in a subcutaneous xenograft model in nude mice and in HCCs arising in immune-competent mice. In summary, we developed a novel oncolytic adenovirus, Ad-199T, which could demonstrate a therapeutic potential against liver cancer without causing significant hepatotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Callegari
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bahaeldin K. Elamin
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Lucilla D’Abundo
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simonetta Falzoni
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Donvito
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Farzaneh Moshiri
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maddalena Milazzo
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Altavilla
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico Diagnostiche e Terapie Speciali, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luciano Giacomelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico Diagnostiche e Terapie Speciali, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program & Transplantation Laboratory & Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata e Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi e Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail: (SS); (MN)
| | - Silvia Sabbioni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biotecnologie, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail: (SS); (MN)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Koski A, Karli E, Kipar A, Escutenaire S, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Mutation of the fiber shaft heparan sulphate binding site of a 5/3 chimeric adenovirus reduces liver tropism. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60032. [PMID: 23585829 PMCID: PMC3621953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural tropism to the liver is a major obstacle in systemic delivery of adenoviruses in cancer gene therapy. Adenovirus binding to soluble coagulation factors and to cellular heparan sulphate proteoglycans via the fiber shaft KKTK domain are suggested to cause liver tropism. Serotype 5 adenovirus constructs with mutated KKTK regions exhibit liver detargeting, but they also transduce tumors less efficiently, possibly due to altered fiber conformation. We constructed Ad5/3lucS*, a 5/3 chimeric adenovirus with a mutated KKTK region. The fiber knob swap was hypothesized to facilitate tumor transduction. This construct was studied with or without additional coagulation factor ablation. Ad5/3lucS* exhibited significantly reduced transduction of human hepatic cells in vitro and mouse livers in vivo. Combination of coagulation factor ablation by warfarinization to Ad5/3lucS* seemed to further enhance liver detargeting. Cancer cell transduction by Ad5/3lucS* was retained in vitro. In vivo, viral particle accumulation in M4A4-LM3 xenograft tumors was comparable to controls, but Ad5/3lucS* transgene expression was nearly abolished. Coagulation factor ablation did not affect tumor transduction. These studies set the stage for further investigations into the effects of the KKTK mutation and coagulation factor ablation in the context of 5/3 serotype chimerism. Of note, the putative disconnect between tumor transduction and transgene expression could prove useful in further understanding of adenovirus biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anniina Koski
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eerika Karli
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anja Kipar
- Finnish Centre for Laboratory Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Science and Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Escutenaire
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Kanerva
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cerullo V, Koski A, Vähä-Koskela M, Hemminki A. Chapter eight--Oncolytic adenoviruses for cancer immunotherapy: data from mice, hamsters, and humans. Adv Cancer Res 2013; 115:265-318. [PMID: 23021247 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-398342-8.00008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adenovirus is one of the most commonly used vectors for gene therapy and two products have already been approved for treatment of cancer in China (Gendicine(R) and Oncorine(R)). An intriguing aspect of oncolytic adenoviruses is that by their very nature they potently stimulate multiple arms of the immune system. Thus, combined tumor killing via oncolysis and inherent immunostimulatory properties in fact make these viruses in situ tumor vaccines. When further engineered to express cytokines, chemokines, tumor-associated antigens, or other immunomodulatory elements, they have been shown in various preclinical models to induce antigen-specific effector and memory responses, resulting both in full therapeutic cures and even induction of life-long tumor immunity. Here, we review the state of the art of oncolytic adenovirus, in the context of their capability to stimulate innate and adaptive arms of the immune system and finally how we can modify these viruses to direct the immune response toward cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Cerullo
- Laboratory of Immunovirotherapy, Division of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ad3-hTERT-E1A, a fully serotype 3 oncolytic adenovirus, in patients with chemotherapy refractory cancer. Mol Ther 2012; 20:1821-30. [PMID: 22871667 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2012.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Twenty-five patients with chemotherapy refractory cancer were treated with a fully serotype 3-based oncolytic adenovirus Ad3-hTERT-E1A. In mice, Ad3 induced higher amounts of cytokines but less liver damage than Ad5 or Ad5/3. In humans, the only grade 3 adverse reactions were self-limiting cytopenias and generally the safety profile resembled Ad5-based oncolytic viruses. Patients that had been previously treated with Ad5 viruses presented longer lasting lymphocytopenia but no median increase in Ad3-specific T-cells in blood, suggesting immunological activity against antigens other than Ad3 hexon. Frequent alterations in antitumor T-cells in blood were seen regardless of previous virus exposure. Neutralizing antibodies against Ad3 increased in all patients, whereas Ad5 neutralizing antibodies remained stable. Treatment with Ad3-hTERT-E1A resulted in re-emergence of Ad5 viruses from previous treatments into blood and vice versa. Signs of possible efficacy were seen in 11/15 (73%) patients evaluable for tumor markers, four of which were treated only intravenously. Particularly promising results were seen in breast cancer patients and especially those receiving concomitant trastuzumab. Taken together, Ad3-hTERT-E1A seems safe for further clinical testing or development of armed versions. It offers an immunologically attractive alternative, with possible pharmacodynamic differences and a different receptor compared to Ad5.
Collapse
|
15
|
Kangasniemi L, Parviainen S, Pisto T, Koskinen M, Jokinen M, Kiviluoto T, Cerullo V, Jalonen H, Koski A, Kangasniemi A, Kanerva A, Pesonen S, Hemminki A. Effects of capsid-modified oncolytic adenoviruses and their combinations with gemcitabine or silica gel on pancreatic cancer. Int J Cancer 2011; 131:253-63. [PMID: 21834073 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.26370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Conventional cancer treatments often have little impact on the course of advanced pancreatic cancer. Although cancer gene therapy with adenoviruses is a promising developmental approach, the primary receptor is poorly expressed in pancreatic cancers which might compromise efficacy and thus targeting to other receptors could be beneficial. Extended stealth delivery, combination with standard chemotherapy or circumvention of host antiadenoviral immune response might improve efficacy further. In this work, capsid-modified adenoviruses were studied for transduction of cell lines and clinical normal and tumor tissue samples. The respective oncolytic viruses were tested for oncolytic activity in vitro and in vivo. Survival was studied in a peritoneally disseminated pancreas cancer model, with or without concurrent gemcitabine while silica implants were utilized for extended intraperitoneal virus delivery. Immunocompetent mice and Syrian hamsters were used to study the effect of silica mediated delivery on antiviral immune responses and subsequent in vivo gene delivery. Capsid modifications selectively enhanced gene transfer to malignant pancreatic cancer cell lines and clinical samples. The respective oncolytic viruses resulted in increased cell killing in vitro, which translated into a survival benefit in mice. Early proinfammatory cytokine responses and formation of antiviral neutralizing antibodies was partially avoided with silica implants. The implant also shielded the virus from pre-existing neutralizing antibodies, while increasing the pancreas/liver gene delivery ratio six-fold. In conclusion, capsid modified adenoviruses would be useful for testing in pancreatic cancer trials. Silica implants might increase the safety and efficacy of the approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lotta Kangasniemi
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program, Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute and Finnish Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pesonen S, Diaconu I, Cerullo V, Escutenaire S, Raki M, Kangasniemi L, Nokisalmi P, Dotti G, Guse K, Laasonen L, Partanen K, Karli E, Haavisto E, Oksanen M, Karioja-Kallio A, Hannuksela P, Holm SL, Kauppinen S, Joensuu T, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Integrin targeted oncolytic adenoviruses Ad5-D24-RGD and Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF for treatment of patients with advanced chemotherapy refractory solid tumors. Int J Cancer 2011; 130:1937-47. [PMID: 21630267 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.26216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 05/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The safety of oncolytic viruses for treatment of cancer has been shown in clinical trials while antitumor efficacy has often remained modest. As expression of the coxsackie-adenovirus receptor may be variable in advanced tumors, we developed Ad5-D24-RGD, a p16/Rb pathway selective oncolytic adenovirus featuring RGD-4C modification of the fiber. This allows viral entry through alpha-v-beta integrins frequently highly expressed in advanced tumors. Advanced tumors are often immunosuppressive which results in lack of tumor eradication despite abnormal epitopes being present. Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF) is a potent activator of immune system with established antitumor properties. To stimulate antitumor immunity and break tumor associated immunotolerance, we constructed Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF, featuring GMCSF controlled by the adenoviral E3 promoter. Preliminary safety of Ad5-D24-RGD and Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF for treatment of human cancer was established. Treatments with Ad5-D24-RGD (N = 9) and Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF (N = 7) were well tolerated. Typical side effects were grade 1-2 fatigue, fever and injection site pain. 77% (10/13) of evaluable patients showed virus in circulation for at least 2 weeks. In 3 out of 6 evaluable patients, disease previously progressing stabilized after a single treatment with Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF. In addition, 2/3 patients had stabilization or reduction in tumor marker levels. All patients treated with Ad5-D24-RGD showed disease progression in radiological analysis, although 3/6 had temporary reduction or stabilization of marker levels. Induction of tumor and adenovirus specific immunity was demonstrated with ELISPOT in Ad5-RGD-D24-GMCSF treated patients. RGD modified oncolytic adenoviruses with or without GMCSF seem safe for further clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sari Pesonen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute and Finnish Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hartkopf AD, Fehm T, Wallwiener D, Lauer UM. Oncolytic virotherapy of breast cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2011; 123:164-71. [PMID: 21764108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2011.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of replication competent viruses that selectively target and destroy cancer cells has rapidly evolved over the past decade and numerous innovative oncolytic viruses have been created. Many of these promising anti-cancer agents have recently entered into clinical trials (including those on breast cancer) and demonstrated encouraging safety and efficacy. Virotherapeutic strategies are thus of considerable interest to combat breast cancer in both (i) the primary disease situation in which relapse should be avoided as good as possible and (ii) in the metastatic situation which remains incurable to date. Here, we summarize data from preclinical and clinical trials using oncolytic virotherapy to treat breast cancer. This includes strategies to specifically target breast cancer cells, to arm oncolytic viruses with additional therapeutic transgenes and an outlining of future challenges when translating these promising therapeutics "from bench to bedside".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Hartkopf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Clinic of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kim KH, Ryan MJ, Estep JE, Miniard BM, Rudge TL, Peggins JO, Broadt TL, Wang M, Preuss MA, Siegal GP, Hemminki A, Harris RD, Aurigemma R, Curiel DT, Alvarez RD. A new generation of serotype chimeric infectivity-enhanced conditionally replicative adenovirals: the safety profile of ad5/3-Δ24 in advance of a phase I clinical trial in ovarian cancer patients. Hum Gene Ther 2011; 22:821-8. [PMID: 21171861 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2010.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Conditionally replicative adenoviral (CRAd) virotherapy represents a promising therapeutic approach for cancer. We have demonstrated that a serotype chimeric adenoviral 5/3 fiber-knob modification achieves enhanced ovarian cancer infectivity, conditional replication, and oncolytic activity. This study evaluated the safety of intraperitoneal (IP) Ad5/3-Δ24 in advance of a phase I clinical trial in gynecologic cancers. Syrian hamster cohorts were treated with IP Ad5/3-Δ24 or control buffer for 3 consecutive days and euthanized on study days 8, 17, 57, and 89. Blood and tissue samples were harvested from each animal. For biodistribution studies, presence and quantitation of viral levels within samples were determined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. For safety studies, animals were assessed for adverse vector-related tissue or laboratory effects. In the biodistribution study, low levels of Ad5/3-Δ24 DNA were noted outside of the abdominal cavity. Viral DNA levels in tissues obtained from the peritoneal cavity peaked at day 8 and declined thereafter. In the safety study, no specific histopathologic changes were attributable to virus administration. Hematologic findings noted in the 1 × 10(11) viral particles (vp)/dose group on Days 4 and/or 8 were indicative of an Ad5/3-Δ24-specific generalized inflammatory response; these findings resolved by day 56. The no observable adverse effect level was determined to be 1 × 10(10) vp/dose. This study elucidates the safety profile of IP administration of the serotype chimeric infectivity-enhanced CRAd, Ad5/3-Δ24, and provides guidance for a planned phase I trial for patients with recurrent gynecologic cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth H Kim
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, South Birmingham, AL 35249, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ranki T, Hemminki A. Serotype chimeric human adenoviruses for cancer gene therapy. Viruses 2010; 2:2196-2212. [PMID: 21994616 PMCID: PMC3185575 DOI: 10.3390/v2102196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Revised: 08/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer gene therapy consists of numerous approaches where the common denominator is utilization of vectors for achieving therapeutic effect. A particularly potent embodiment of the approach is virotherapy, in which the replication potential of an oncolytic virus is directed towards tumor cells to cause lysis, while normal cells are spared. Importantly, the therapeutic effect of the initial viral load is amplified through viral replication cycles and production of progeny virions. All cancer gene therapy approaches rely on a sufficient level of delivery of the anticancer agent into target cells. Thus, enhancement of delivery to target cells, and reduction of delivery to non-target cells, in an approach called transductional targeting, is attractive. Both genetic and non-genetic retargeting strategies have been utilized. However, in the context of oncolytic viruses, it is beneficial to have the specific modification included in progeny virions and hence genetic modification may be preferable. Serotype chimerism utilizes serotype specific differences in receptor usage, liver tropism and seroprevalence in order to gain enhanced infection of target tissue. This review will focus on serotype chimeric adenoviruses for cancer gene therapy applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuuli Ranki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland; E-Mail:
- HUSLAB, Helsinki University Central Hospital, P.O. Box 100, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland
- Haartman Institute & Transplantation Laboratory, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
- Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 20, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland; E-Mail:
- HUSLAB, Helsinki University Central Hospital, P.O. Box 100, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland
- Haartman Institute & Transplantation Laboratory, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
- Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 20, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel. +358-9-1912 5464; Fax: +358-9-1912 5465
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ahonen MT, Diaconu I, Pesonen S, Kanerva A, Baumann M, Parviainen ST, Spiller B, Cerullo V, Hemminki A. Calcium gluconate in phosphate buffered saline increases gene delivery with adenovirus type 5. PLoS One 2010; 5. [PMID: 20927353 PMCID: PMC2948038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 09/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adenoviruses are attractive vectors for gene therapy because of their stability in vivo and the possibility of production at high titers. Despite exciting preclinical data with various approaches, there are only a few examples of clear efficacy in clinical trials. Effective gene delivery to target cells remains the key variable determining efficacy and thus enhanced transduction methods are important. Methods/Results We found that heated serum could enhance adenovirus 5 mediated gene delivery up to twentyfold. A new protein-level interaction was found between fiber knob and serum transthyretin, but this was not responsible for the observed effect. Instead, we found that heating caused the calcium and phosphate present in the serum mix to precipitate, and this was responsible for enhanced gene delivery. This finding could have relevance for designing preclinical experiments with adenoviruses, since calcium and phosphate are present in many solutions. To translate this into an approach potentially testable in patients, we used calcium gluconate in phosphate buffered saline, both of which are clinically approved, to increase adenoviral gene transfer up to 300-fold in vitro. Gene transfer was increased with or without heating and in a manner independent from the coxsackie-adenovirus receptor. In vivo, in mouse studies, gene delivery was increased 2-, 110-, 12- and 13-fold to tumors, lungs, heart and liver and did not result in increased pro-inflammatory cytokine induction. Antitumor efficacy of a replication competent virus was also increased significantly. Conclusion In summary, adenoviral gene transfer and antitumor efficacy can be enhanced by calcium gluconate in phosphate buffered saline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marko T Ahonen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute and Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Treatment of cancer patients with a serotype 5/3 chimeric oncolytic adenovirus expressing GMCSF. Mol Ther 2010; 18:1874-84. [PMID: 20664527 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2010.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Augmenting antitumor immunity is a promising way to enhance the potency of oncolytic adenoviral therapy. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GMCSF) can mediate antitumor effects by recruiting natural killer cells and by induction of tumor-specific CD8(+) cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Serotype 5 adenoviruses (Ad5) are commonly used in cancer gene therapy. However, expression of the coxsackie-adenovirus receptor is variable in many advanced tumors and preclinical data have demonstrated an advantage for replacing the Ad5 knob with the Ad3 knob. Here, a 5/3 capsid chimeric and p16-Rb pathway selective oncolytic adenovirus coding for GMCSF was engineered and tested preclinically. A total of 21 patients with advanced solid tumors refractory to standard therapies were then treated intratumorally and intravenously with Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF, which was combined with low-dose metronomic cyclophosphamide to reduce regulatory T cells. No severe adverse events occurred. Analysis of pretreatment samples of malignant pleural effusion and ascites confirmed the efficacy of Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF in transduction and cell killing. Evidence of biological activity of the virus was seen in 13/21 patients and 8/12 showed objective clinical benefit as evaluated by radiology with Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) criteria. Antiadenoviral and antitumoral immune responses were elicited after treatment. Thus, Ad5/3-D24-GMCSF seems safe in treating cancer patients and promising signs of efficacy were seen.
Collapse
|
22
|
Koski A, Rajecki M, Guse K, Kanerva A, Ristimäki A, Pesonen S, Escutenaire S, Hemminki A. Systemic adenoviral gene delivery to orthotopic murine breast tumors with ablation of coagulation factors, thrombocytes and Kupffer cells. J Gene Med 2010; 11:966-77. [PMID: 19670332 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid clearance of adenoviruses from blood by macrophage lineage cells of the liver and spleen, and binding to platelets, hinder their successful systemic use for cancer gene therapy. Vitamin K dependent coagulation factors are important mediators for the adenovirus liver tropism. Here we aim to determine the effects of coagulation factor, thrombocyte and liver macrophage (Kupffer cell) ablation on biodistribution of serotype 5 adenoviruses in mice with orthotopic breast tumors. METHODS Prior to intravenous injection of adenoviruses, mice bearing orthotopic breast tumors were pretreated with warfarin to inhibit vitamin K dependent coagulation factor synthesis, an anti-platelet antibody causing thrombocytopenia or an inhibitor of the Kupffer cell scavenger receptor or their combination. Virus availability in blood after injection was determined from blood samples and transgene expression in tissues analyzed 72 hours afterwards with In Vivo Imaging and luciferase assays. RESULTS Warfarin pretreatment reduced gene delivery to liver, spleen and lung. Kupffer cell ablation increased persistence of adenoviruses in blood but didn't affect biodistribution significantly. Depletion of Kupffer cells combined with thrombocytopenia doubled the systemic gene delivery of 5/3 chimeric adenovirus to tumors (p < 0.05). Triple ablation of platelets, Kupffer cells and coagulation factors increased the tumor to liver ratio of systemic adenovirus gene delivery by 81% (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Depletion of coagulation factors can reduce transduction of liver, spleen and lung. Kupffer cell depletion is the most feasible method of increasing amount adenovirus in systemic blood flow and in combination with ablation of thrombocytes can increase the transduction of adenovirus to tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anniina Koski
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hakkarainen T, Rajecki M, Sarparanta M, Tenhunen M, Airaksinen AJ, Desmond RA, Kairemo K, Hemminki A. Targeted radiotherapy for prostate cancer with an oncolytic adenovirus coding for human sodium iodide symporter. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 15:5396-403. [PMID: 19706820 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-2571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Oncolytic adenoviruses are promising tools for cancer therapy. Although several clinical reports have indicated both safety and promising antitumor capabilities for these viruses, there are only a few examples of complete tumor eradication. Thus, the antitumor efficacy of oncolytic adenoviruses needs to be improved. One potentially useful approach is combination with radiotherapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN To target systemically administered radioiodide to tumors, we created Ad5/3-Delta24-human sodium iodide symporter (hNIS), a Rb-p16 pathway selective infectivity enhanced oncolytic adenovirus encoding hNIS. RESULTS Ad5/3-Delta24-hNIS replication effectively killed prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Also, the virus-mediated radioiodide uptake into prostate cancer cells in vitro and into tumors in vivo. Furthermore, Ad5/3-Delta24-hNIS with radioiodide was significantly more effective than virus alone in mice with prostate cancer xenografts. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that oncolytic adenovirus-mediated targeted radiotherapy might be a potentially useful option for enhancing the efficacy or adenoviral virotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hakkarainen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program & Transplantation Laboratory & Haartman Institute & Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Diaconu I, Denby L, Pesonen S, Cerullo V, Bauerschmitz GJ, Guse K, Rajecki M, Dias JD, Taari K, Kanerva A, Baker AH, Hemminki A. Serotype chimeric and fiber-mutated adenovirus Ad5/19p-HIT for targeting renal cancer and untargeting the liver. Hum Gene Ther 2009; 20:611-20. [PMID: 19239383 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2008.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite some advances, patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cannot usually be cured. Alteration of the natural tropism of adenoviruses may permit more specific gene transfer to target tissues. The aim of this study was to use novel targeting moieties for adenoviral gene therapy of RCC. Previous work in rats suggested that use of Ad5/19p (Ad5 capsid with Ad19p fiber) with kidney vascular targeting moieties HTTHREP (HTT), HITSLLS (HIT), and APASLYN (APA) placed into the fiber knob might be useful for targeting kidney vasculature. Therefore, we sought to investigate the utility of Ad5/19p variants for gene delivery to human RCC cell lines, clinical samples, and orthotopic murine models of metastatic RCC. Six different human RCC cell lines were infected but only Ad5/19p-HIT showed increased transduction, and only in one cell line. Thus, we analyzed human normal and cancerous kidney specimens fresh from patients, which might better mimic the three-dimensional architecture of clinical tumors and found that Ad5/19p-HIT showed transduction levels similar to Ad5. In mice, we found that intraperitoneal and intravenous Ad5/19p-HIT transduced tumors at levels comparable to Ad5, and that intratumoral Ad5/19p-HIT was superior to Ad5. Liver tropism was significantly reduced in comparison with Ad5. Improvements in tumor-to-liver transduction ratios suggested that Ad5/19p-HIT may be promising for systemic gene delivery to kidney tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Diaconu
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program, Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, and Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ad5/3-9HIF-Delta24-VEGFR-1-Ig, an infectivity enhanced, dual-targeted and antiangiogenic oncolytic adenovirus for kidney cancer treatment. Gene Ther 2009; 16:1009-20. [PMID: 19440223 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2009.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite good safety data in clinical trials, oncolytic adenoviruses have not been efficient enough to make them a viable treatment alternative for cancers. As more potent viruses are being made, transcriptional and transductional targeting to tumor tissues becomes increasingly appealing. To improve antitumor efficacy, oncolytic adenoviruses can be armed with therapeutic transgenes, such as the antiangiogenic soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1-Ig fusion protein. We hypothesized that an infectivity enhanced, targeted, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1-Ig armed oncolytic adenovirus would exhibit improved specificity and antitumor effect in murine kidney cancer models. Two hypoxia inducible factor-sensitive promoters were evaluated for renal cancer specificity using a novel in vivo dual luciferase-imaging system. Earlier data had shown usefulness of the 5/3-serotype chimera capsid modification for kidney cancer. Therefore, we constructed Ad5/3-9HIF-Delta24-VEGFR-1-Ig, which showed good specificity and oncolytic effect on renal cancer cells in vitro and resulted in antitumor efficacy in a subcutaneous in vivo model, in which vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1-Ig expression and a concurrent antiangiogenic effect were confirmed. In an intraperitoneally disseminated kidney cancer model, significantly enhanced survival was observed when compared with control viruses. These results suggest that a targeted, antiangiogenic, oncolytic adenovirus might be a valuable agent for testing in kidney cancer patients.
Collapse
|
26
|
Gomes EM, Rodrigues MS, Phadke AP, Butcher LD, Starling C, Chen S, Chang D, Hernandez-Alcoceba R, Newman JT, Stone MJ, Tong AW. Antitumor activity of an oncolytic adenoviral-CD40 ligand (CD154) transgene construct in human breast cancer cells. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 15:1317-25. [PMID: 19228733 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-1360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE CD40 ligand (CD40L, CD154) plays a central role in immunoregulation and also directly modulates epithelial cell growth and differentiation. We previously showed that the CD40 receptor is commonly expressed in primary breast cancer tissues. In this proof-of-principle study, we examined the breast cancer growth-regulatory activities of an oncolytic adenoviral construct carrying the CD40L transgene (AdEHCD40L). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN In vitro and in vivo evaluations were carried out on AdEHCD40L to validate selective viral replication and CD40L transgene activity in hypoxia inducing factor-1alpha and estrogen receptor-expressing human breast cancer cells. RESULTS AdEHCD40L inhibited the in vitro growth of CD40+ human breast cancer lines (T-47D, MDA-MB-231, and BT-20) by up to 80% at a low multiplicity of infection of 1. Incorporation of the CD40L transgene reduced the effective dose needed to achieve 50% growth inhibition (ED50) by approximately 10-fold. In contrast, viral and transgene expression of AdEHCD40L, as well its cytotoxicity, was markedly attenuated in nonmalignant cells. Intratumoral injections with AdEHCD40L reduced preexisting MDA-MB-231 xenograft growth in severe combined immunodeficient mice by >99% and was significantly more effective (P<0.003) than parental virus AdEH (69%) or the recombinant CD40L protein (49%). This enhanced antitumor activity correlated with cell cycle blockade and increased apoptosis in AdEHCD40L-infected tumor cells. CONCLUSIONS These novel findings, together with the previously known immune-activating features of CD40L, support the potential applicability of AdEHCD40L for experimental treatment of human breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica M Gomes
- Cancer Immunology Research Laboratory and Department of Pathology, Baylor Sammons Cancer Center, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Särkioja M, Pesonen S, Raki M, Hakkarainen T, Salo J, Ahonen MT, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Changing the adenovirus fiber for retaining gene delivery efficacy in the presence of neutralizing antibodies. Gene Ther 2008; 15:921-9. [PMID: 18401431 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2008.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Prior infection has primed most adult humans for a rapid neutralizing antibody (NAb) response when re-exposed to adenovirus. NAb induction can severely limit the efficacy of systemic re-administration of adenoviral gene therapy. We hypothesized that changing the fiber knob could overcome NAb. Immune-competent mice were exposed to serotype 5 adenovirus (Ad5)(GL), Ad5/3luc1, Ad5lucRGD or Ad5pK7(GL). Mice immunized with Ad5(GL) featured reduced intravenous Ad5(GL) gene transfer to most organs, including the liver, lung and spleen. Ad5(GL) gene transfer was affected much less by exposure to capsid-modified viruses. Anti-Ad5(GL) NAb blocked intravenous Ad5(GL) gene transfer to orthotopic lung cancer xenografts, whereas capsid-modified viruses were not affected. When gene transfer to fresh cancer and normal lung explants was analyzed, we found that capsid-modified viruses allowed effective gene delivery to tumors in the presence of anti-Ad5(GL) NAb, whereas Ad5(GL) was blocked. In contrast, crossblocking by NAbs induced by different viruses affected gene delivery to normal human lung explants, suggesting the importance of non-fiber-knob-mediated infection mechanisms. We conclude that changing the adenovirus fiber knob is sufficient to allow a relative degree of escape from preexisting NAb. If confirmed in trials, this approach might improve the efficacy of re-administration of adenoviral gene therapy to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Särkioja
- Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Eberle J, Fecker LF, Hossini AM, Kurbanov BM, Fechner H. Apoptosis pathways and oncolytic adenoviral vectors: promising targets and tools to overcome therapy resistance of malignant melanoma. Exp Dermatol 2008; 17:1-11. [PMID: 18095940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2007.00655.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the last decades melanoma incidence has been increasing worldwide, while mortality remained on a high level. Until now, there is no suitable therapy for metastasized melanoma, which could lead to a significant increase in overall survival. Apoptosis deficiency is supposed to be a critical factor for therapy resistance, and previous work has characterized the basic mechanisms of apoptosis regulation in melanoma. Genes and strategies suitable for efficient induction of apoptosis in melanoma cells were identified, which are based on proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins (Bcl-x(S), Bcl-x(AK), Bik/Nbk and Bax) as well as on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related death ligands (CD95L/Fas ligand and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand, TRAIL). Proapoptotic genes may be employed in improved gene therapeutic strategies, based on conditional oncolytic adenoviral vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Eberle
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Skin Cancer Center, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Cells with stem cell-like attributes, such as self-renewal and pluripotency, have been isolated from hematological malignancies and from several solid tumor types. Tumor-initiating cells, also referred to as cancer stem cells, are thought to be responsible for the initiation and growth of tumors. Like their normal counterparts, putative cancer stem cells show remarkable resistance to radiation and chemotherapy. Their capacity for surviving apparently curative treatment can result in tumor relapse. Novel approaches that target tumor-initiating cells in addition to differentiated malignant cells, which constitute the bulk of the tumor, are required for improved survival of patients with metastatic tumors. Oncolytic viruses enter cells through infection and may therefore be resistant to defense mechanisms exhibited by cancer stem cells. Oncolytic adenoviruses can be engineered to attack tumor stem cells, recognized by linage-specific cell surface markers, dysfunctional stem cell-signaling pathways, or upregulated oncogenic genes. Normal stem cells may possess innate resistance to adenoviruses, as most humans have sustained numerous infections with various wild-type serotypes. This review focuses on current literature in support of cancer stem cells and discusses the possibility of using oncolytic virotherapy for killing these tumor-initiating cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Ribacka
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hakkarainen T, Särkioja M, Lehenkari P, Miettinen S, Ylikomi T, Suuronen R, Desmond RA, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Human mesenchymal stem cells lack tumor tropism but enhance the antitumor activity of oncolytic adenoviruses in orthotopic lung and breast tumors. Hum Gene Ther 2007; 18:627-41. [PMID: 17604566 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2007.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic adenoviral delivery into tumors is inefficient because of liver sequestration of intravenously administered virus. One potential solution for improving bioavailability is the use of carrier cells such as human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have been suggested to have inherent tumor tropism. Here we investigated the capacity of capsid-modified adenoviruses to infect and replicate in MSCs. Further, biodistribution and tumor-killing efficacy of MSCs loaded with oncolytic adenoviruses were evaluated in orthotopic murine models of lung and breast cancer. In vitro, heparan sulfate proteoglycan- and alpha(v)beta integrin-targeted viruses enhanced gene delivery to bone marrow- and adipose tissue-derived MSCs up to 11,000-fold over adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5). Infectivity-enhanced oncolytic adenoviruses showed notably higher rates of cytolysis of in vitro-passaged MSCs in comparison with wild-type virus. In vivo, intravenously injected MSCs homed primarily to the lungs, and virus was released into advanced orthotopic breast and lung tumors for therapeutic efficacy and increased survival. When the same dose of virus was injected intravenously without MSCs, only transduction of the liver was seen. These results suggest that MSCs loaded with oncolytic adenoviruses might be a useful approach for improving the bioavailability of systemically administered oncolytic adenoviruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hakkarainen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Gene therapy represents a potentially useful approach for the treatment of diseases refractory to conventional therapies. Various preclinical and clinical strategies have been explored for treatment of gynaecological diseases. Given the most severe unmet clinical need, much of the work has been performed with gynaecological cancers and ovarian cancer in particular. Although the safety of many treatment strategies has been demonstrated in early phase clinical trials, efficacy has been mostly limited heretofore. Major challenges include improving the vectors used with the aim of more effective and selective delivery. In addition, effective penetration into and spreading within advanced and complex tumour masses and metastases remains challenging. This review focuses on existing and developmental gene transfer applications for gynaecological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kanerva
- University of Helsinki, Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Transplantation Laboratory and Haartman Institute, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290 Helsinki), Biomedicum, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Eriksson M, Guse K, Bauerschmitz G, Virkkunen P, Tarkkanen M, Tanner M, Hakkarainen T, Kanerva A, Desmond RA, Pesonen S, Hemminki A. Oncolytic adenoviruses kill breast cancer initiating CD44+CD24-/low cells. Mol Ther 2007; 15:2088-93. [PMID: 17848962 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mt.6300300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells have been indicated in the initiation of tumors and are even found to be responsible for relapses after apparently curative therapies have been undertaken. In breast cancer, they may reside in the CD44(+)CD24(-/low) population. The use of oncolytic adenoviruses presents an attractive anti-tumor approach for eradication of these cells because their entry occurs through infection and they are, therefore, not susceptible to those mechanisms that commonly render stem cells resistant to many drugs. We isolated CD44(+)CD24(-/low) cells from patient pleural effusions and confirmed stem cell-like features including oct4 and sox2 expression and Hoechst 33342 exclusion. CD44(+)CD24(-/low) cells, including the Hoechst excluding subpopulation, could be effectively killed by oncolytic adenoviruses Ad5/3-Delta24 and Ad5.pk7-Delta24. In mice, CD44(+)CD24(-/low) cells formed orthotopic breast tumors but virus infection prevented tumor formation. Ad5/3-Delta24 and Ad5.pk7-Delta24 were effective against advanced orthotopic CD44(+)CD24(-/low)-derived tumors. In summary, Ad5/3-Delta24 and Ad5.pk7-Delta24 can kill CD44(+)CD24(-/low), and also committed breast cancer cells, making them promising agents for treatment of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minna Eriksson
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Molecular Cancer Biology Program and Transplantation Laboratory, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|