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Seadawy MG, Lotfy MM, Saeed AA, Ageez AM. Novel HER2-based multi-epitope vaccine (HER2-MEV) against HER2-positive breast cancer: In silico design and validation. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110832. [PMID: 38905717 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110832] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) continues to be the malignancy with the highest diagnosis rate worldwide. Between 15 % and 30 % of BC patients show overexpressed human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which is linked to poor clinical results in terms of invasiveness and recurrence risk. Passive immunity-based therapeutic approaches for treating HER2-enriched BC, are not effective and significant problems need to be tackled. Constructing multi-epitope vaccines is favored over single-epitope vaccines due to its ability to induce immunity against a variety of antigenic targets which will improve the efficacy of the vaccine. The current study describes a multi-epitope vaccine from HER2 protein against HER2-positive BC using several immunoinformatic techniques to achieve a potent and durable immune response. Nine Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and five Helper T lymphocytes (HTL) epitopes were predicted and validated from HER2 protein using in silico tools. The expressed protein of the designed vaccine is predicted to be highly thermostable with better solubility. The predicted vaccine 3D structure was validated by ProSA servers and by the ERRAT server. Molecular docking analysis revealed a high binding affinity and stability of the designed vaccine with MHCI and TLR-2, 4, 7, and 9 receptors. The analysis of the C-ImmSim server revealed that the novel vaccine construct had the ability to elicit robust anti-cancerous innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immune responses. The vaccine can be a suitable option for HER2-positive BC patients and other patients with HER2-positive cancers to evoke immune responses. However, in vitro and in vivo experiments are needed to assess its effectiveness and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed G Seadawy
- Biodefense Center for Infectious and Emerging Diseases, Ministry of Defense, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mai M Lotfy
- Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt.
| | - Aya A Saeed
- Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt.
| | - Amr M Ageez
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, MSA University, 6 October City 12451, Giza, Egypt.
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2
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Liu X, Zhang X, Feng R, Ren X, Wu D, Liu X, Liu L, Wei Q. Microfluidic Immunosensor Platform for Sensitive Detection of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 Based on Enhanced Cathode Electrochemiluminescence of Bimetallic Nanoclusters. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8390-8398. [PMID: 38716680 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05561] [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: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
In this work, a microfluidic immunosensor chip was developed by incorporating microfluidic technology with electrochemiluminescence (ECL) for sensitive detection of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2). The immunosensor chip can achieve robust reproducibility in mass production by integrating multiple detection units in a series. Notably, nanoscale materials can be better adapted to microfluidic systems, greatly enhancing the accuracy of the immunosensor chip. Ag@Au NCs closed by glutathione (GSH) were introduced in the ECL microfluidic immunosensor system with excellent and stable ECL performance. The synthesized CeO2-Au was applied as a coreaction promoter in the ECL signal amplification system, which made the result of HER2 detection more reliable. In addition, the designed microfluidic immunosensor chip integrated the biosensing system into a microchip, realizing rapid and accurate detection of HER2 by its high throughput and low usage. The developed short peptide ligand NARKFKG (NRK) achieved an effective connection between the antibody and nanocarrier for improving the detection efficiency of the sensor. The immunosensor chip had better storage stability and sensitivity than traditional detection methods, with a wide detection range from 10 fg·mL-1 to 100 ng·mL-1 and a low detection limit (LOD) of 3.29 fg·mL-1. In general, a microfluidic immunosensor platform was successfully constructed, providing a new idea for breast cancer (BC) clinical detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuening Liu
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Xiaoyue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Rui Feng
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Xiang Ren
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Xuejing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Qin Wei
- Key Laboratory of Interfacial Reaction & Sensing Analysis in Universities of Shandong, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
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3
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Deng M, Tang F, Chang X, Liu P, Ji X, Hao M, Wang Y, Yang R, Ma Q, Zhang Y, Miao J. Immunotherapy for Ovarian Cancer: Disappointing or Promising? Mol Pharm 2024; 21:454-466. [PMID: 38232985 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00986] [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] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, one of the deadliest malignancies, lacks effective treatment, despite advancements in surgical techniques and chemotherapy. Thus, new therapeutic approaches are imperative to improving treatment outcomes. Immunotherapy, which has demonstrated considerable success in managing various cancers, has already found its place in clinical practice. This review aims to provide an overview of ovarian tumor immunotherapy, including its basics, key strategies, and clinical research data supporting its potential. In particular, this discussion highlights promising strategies such as checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines, and pericyte transfer, both individually and in combination. However, the advancement of new immunotherapies necessitates large controlled randomized trials, which will undoubtedly shape the future of ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Deng
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Fan Tang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Xiangyu Chang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Penglin Liu
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Xuechao Ji
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Menglin Hao
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Yixiao Wang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Ruiye Yang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Qingqing Ma
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
- Nanyuan Hospital of Fengtai District, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Yubo Zhang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
- Qingdao Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Shandong 266011, China
| | - Jinwei Miao
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
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4
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Fang Q, Shen G, Xie Q, Guan Y, Liu X, Ren D, Zhao F, Liu Z, Ma F, Zhao J. Development of Tumor Markers for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:547-564. [PMID: 37157196 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230508152817] [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: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Although breast cancer treatment has been developed remarkably in recent years, it remains the primary cause of death among women. Immune checkpoint blockade therapy has significantly altered the way breast cancer is treated, although not all patients benefit from the changes. At present, the most effective mechanism of immune checkpoint blockade application in malignant tumors is not clear and efficacy may be influenced by many factors, including host, tumor, and tumor microenvironment dynamics. Therefore, there is a pressing need for tumor immunomarkers that can be used to screen patients and help determine which of them would benefit from breast cancer immunotherapy. At present, no single tumor marker can predict treatment efficacy with sufficient accuracy. Multiple markers may be combined to more accurately pinpoint patients who will respond favorably to immune checkpoint blockade medication. In this review, we have examined the breast cancer treatments, developments in research on the role of tumor markers in maximizing the clinical efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors, prospects for the identification of novel therapeutic targets, and the creation of individualized treatment plans. We also discuss how tumor markers can provide guidance for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Fang
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Guoshuang Shen
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Qiqi Xie
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Yumei Guan
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Xinlan Liu
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, No. 804 Shengli Road, Xingqing District, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Dengfeng Ren
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Fuxing Zhao
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Zhilin Liu
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No.17, Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Jiuda Zhao
- Breast Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, China
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5
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Fernandes CL, Silva DJ, Mesquita A. Novel HER-2 Targeted Therapies in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:87. [PMID: 38201515 PMCID: PMC10778064 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010087] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER-2)-positive breast cancer represents 15-20% of all breast cancer subtypes and has an aggressive biological behavior with worse prognosis. The development of HER-2-targeted therapies has changed the disease's course, having a direct impact on survival rates and quality of life. Drug development of HER-2-targeting therapies is a prolific field, with numerous new therapeutic strategies showing survival benefits and gaining regulatory approval in recent years. Furthermore, the acknowledgement of the survival impact of HER-2-directed therapies on HER-2-low breast cancer has contributed even more to advances in the field. The present review aims to summarize the newly approved therapeutic strategies for HER-2-positive breast cancer and review the new and exploratory HER-2-targeted therapies currently under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Lopes Fernandes
- Medical Oncology Department, Pedro Hispano Hospital, 4464-513 Matosinhos, Portugal; (D.J.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Diogo J. Silva
- Medical Oncology Department, Pedro Hispano Hospital, 4464-513 Matosinhos, Portugal; (D.J.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Alexandra Mesquita
- Medical Oncology Department, Pedro Hispano Hospital, 4464-513 Matosinhos, Portugal; (D.J.S.); (A.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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6
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Vajari MK, Sanaei MJ, Salari S, Rezvani A, Ravari MS, Bashash D. Breast cancer vaccination: Latest advances with an analytical focus on clinical trials. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110696. [PMID: 37494841 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110696] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the main causes of cancer-related death worldwide. The heterogenicity of breast tumors and the presence of tumor resistance, metastasis, and disease recurrence make BC a challenging malignancy. A new age in cancer treatment is being ushered in by the enormous success of cancer immunotherapy, and therapeutic cancer vaccination is one such area of research. Nevertheless, it has been shown that the application of cancer vaccines in BC as monotherapy could not induce satisfying anti-tumor immunity. Indeed, the application of various vaccine platforms as well as combination therapies like immunotherapy could influence the clinical benefits of BC treatment. We analyzed the clinical trials of BC vaccination and revealed that the majority of trials were in phase I and II meaning that the BC vaccine studies lack favorable outcomes or they need more development. Furthermore, peptide- and cell-based vaccines are the major platforms utilized in clinical trials according to our analysis. Besides, some studies showed satisfying outcomes regarding carbohydrate-based vaccines in BC treatment. Recent advancements in therapeutic vaccines for breast cancer were promising strategies that could be accessible in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Kohansal Vajari
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Javad Sanaei
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Salari
- Department of Medical Oncology-Hematology, Taleghani Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Rezvani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Sadat Ravari
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Fatima GN, Fatma H, Saraf SK. Vaccines in Breast Cancer: Challenges and Breakthroughs. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2175. [PMID: 37443570 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132175] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a problem for women's health globally. Early detection techniques come in a variety of forms ranging from local to systemic and from non-invasive to invasive. The treatment of cancer has always been challenging despite the availability of a wide range of therapeutics. This is either due to the variable behaviour and heterogeneity of the proliferating cells and/or the individual's response towards the treatment applied. However, advancements in cancer biology and scientific technology have changed the course of the cancer treatment approach. This current review briefly encompasses the diagnostics, the latest and most recent breakthrough strategies and challenges, and the limitations in fighting breast cancer, emphasising the development of breast cancer vaccines. It also includes the filed/granted patents referring to the same aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gul Naz Fatima
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Babu Banarasi Das Northern India Institute of Technology, Lucknow 226028, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Hera Fatma
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Babu Banarasi Das Northern India Institute of Technology, Lucknow 226028, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shailendra K Saraf
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Babu Banarasi Das Northern India Institute of Technology, Lucknow 226028, Uttar Pradesh, India
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8
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Mercogliano MF, Bruni S, Mauro FL, Schillaci R. Emerging Targeted Therapies for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15071987. [PMID: 37046648 PMCID: PMC10093019 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15071987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of death. HER2 overexpression is found in approximately 20% of breast cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis and a shorter overall survival. Tratuzumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against the HER2 receptor, is the standard of care treatment. However, a third of the patients do not respond to therapy. Given the high rate of resistance, other HER2-targeted strategies have been developed, including monoclonal antibodies such as pertuzumab and margetuximab, trastuzumab-based antibody drug conjugates such as trastuzumab-emtansine (T-DM1) and trastuzumab-deruxtecan (T-DXd), and tyrosine kinase inhibitors like lapatinib and tucatinib, among others. Moreover, T-DXd has proven to be of use in the HER2-low subtype, which suggests that other HER2-targeted therapies could be successful in this recently defined new breast cancer subclassification. When patients progress to multiple strategies, there are several HER2-targeted therapies available; however, treatment options are limited, and the potential combination with other drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells, CAR-NK, CAR-M, and vaccines is an interesting and appealing field that is still in development. In this review, we will discuss the highlights and pitfalls of the different HER2-targeted therapies and potential combinations to overcome metastatic disease and resistance to therapy.
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Mechanisms and Strategies to Overcome PD-1/PD-L1 Blockade Resistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010104. [PMID: 36612100 PMCID: PMC9817764 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by a high rate of systemic metastasis, insensitivity to conventional treatment and susceptibility to drug resistance, resulting in a poor patient prognosis. The immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represented by antibodies of programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and programmed death receptor ligand 1 (PD-L1) have provided new therapeutic options for TNBC. However, the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade monotherapy is suboptimal immune response, which may be caused by reduced antigen presentation, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, interplay with other immune checkpoints and aberrant activation of oncological signaling in tumor cells. Therefore, to improve the sensitivity of TNBC to ICIs, suitable patients are selected based on reliable predictive markers and treated with a combination of ICIs with other therapies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, oncologic virus and neoantigen-based therapies. This review discusses the current mechanisms underlying the resistance of TNBC to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, the potential biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy and recent advances in the combination therapies to increase response rates, the depth of remission and the durability of the benefit of TNBC to ICIs.
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Alrhmoun S, Sennikov S. The Role of Tumor-Associated Antigen HER2/neu in Tumor Development and the Different Approaches for Using It in Treatment: Many Choices and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246173. [PMID: 36551661 PMCID: PMC9776683 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of HER2-positive cancers has changed significantly over the past ten years thanks to a significant number of promising new approaches that have been added to our arsenal in the fight against cancer, including monoclonal antibodies, inhibitors of tyrosine kinase, antibody-drug conjugates, vaccination, and particularly, adoptive-T-cell therapy after its great success in hematological malignancies. Equally important is the new methodology for determining patients eligible for targeted HER2 therapy, which has doubled the number of patients who can benefit from these treatments. However, despite the initial enthusiasm, there are still several problems in this field represented by drug resistance and tumor recurrence that require the further development of new more efficient drugs. In this review, we discuss various approaches for targeting the HER2 molecule in cancer treatment, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks, along with the different mechanisms responsible for resistance to HER2-targeted therapies and how to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh Alrhmoun
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 630099 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Sergey Sennikov
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology, 630099 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Department of Immunology, V. Zelman Institute for Medicine and Psychology, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Correspondence:
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Lai HZ, Han JR, Fu X, Ren YF, Li ZH, You FM. Targeted Approaches to HER2-Low Breast Cancer: Current Practice and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153774. [PMID: 35954438 PMCID: PMC9367369 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary HER2-low breast cancer (BC) accounts for more than half of breast cancer patients. Anti-HER2 therapy has been ineffective in HER2-low BC, for which palliative chemotherapy is the main treatment modality. The definitive efficacy of T-Dxd in HER2-low BC breaks previous treatment strategies, which will redefine HER2-low and thus reshape anti-HER2 therapy. This review summarizes detection technologies and novel agents for HER2-low BC, and explores their possible role in future clinics, to provide ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of HER2-low BC. Abstract HER2-low breast cancer (BC) has a poor prognosis, making the development of more suitable treatment an unmet clinical need. While chemotherapy is the main method of treatment for HER2-low BC, not all patients benefit from it. Antineoplastic therapy without chemotherapy has shown promise in clinical trials and is being explored further. As quantitative detection techniques become more advanced, they assist in better defining the expression level of HER2 and in guiding the development of targeted therapies, which include directly targeting HER2 receptors on the cell surface, targeting HER2-related intracellular signaling pathways and targeting the immune microenvironment. A new anti-HER2 antibody-drug conjugate called T-DM1 has been successfully tested and found to be highly effective in clinical trials. With this progress, it could eventually be transformed from a disease without a defined therapeutic target into a disease with a defined therapeutic molecular target. Furthermore, efforts are being made to compare the sequencing and combination of chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and HER2-targeted therapy to improve prognosis to customize the subtype of HER2 low expression precision treatment regimens. In this review, we summarize the current and upcoming treatment strategies, to achieve accurate management of HER2-low BC.
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12
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Potent anti-tumor immune response and tumor growth inhibition induced by HER2 subdomain fusion protein in a mouse tumor model. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022; 149:2437-2450. [PMID: 35737089 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04084-0] [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: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several approaches have so far been employed to establish anti-tumor immunity by targeting HER2 protein. Active immunization with recombinant HER2 subdomains has previously been demonstrated to induce potent immune response and tumor growth inhibition. In the present study, we investigated the immunogenicity and tumor inhibitory effect of a fusion protein consisting of human HER2 extracellular subdomain (ECD-DI + II) together with T-helper cell epitopes of Tetanus toxin (p2 and p30). METHODS BALB/c mice were immunized with two recombinant proteins (DI + II and p2p30-DI + II) emulsified in 4 different adjuvants. Anti-DI + II antibody response, cytokine profile, frequency of splenic CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD8+CD107a+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were assessed in the immunized mice. To assess the anti-tumor effect, the immunized mice were subcutaneously challenged with HER2-overexpressing tumor cells and the tumor growth was determined. RESULTS Both recombinant proteins were able to induce comparable levels of ECD-DI + II-specific antibodies. Immunization with p2p30-DI + II resulted in a significant increase in the level of Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) secretion compared to DI + II protein and significantly higher frequency of CTLs and lower frequency of Tregs. The number of mice that remained tumor-free until day 120 was significantly higher in p2p30-DI + II vaccinated groups. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that the p2p30-DI + II fusion protein together with CpG adjuvant induces more potent anti-tumor immune responses in a mouse tumor model. Accordingly, this formulation might be considered as a potential immunotherapeutic approach in HER2+ cancers.
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Agostinetto E, Montemurro F, Puglisi F, Criscitiello C, Bianchini G, Del Mastro L, Introna M, Tondini C, Santoro A, Zambelli A. Immunotherapy for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Clinical Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2136. [PMID: 35565264 PMCID: PMC9105460 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, and HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for approximately 15% of all breast cancer diagnoses. The advent of HER2-targeting therapies has dramatically improved the survival of these patients, significantly reducing their risk of recurrence and death. However, as a significant proportion of patients ultimately develop resistance to these therapies, it is extremely important to identify new treatments to further improve their clinical outcomes. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment and history of several cancer types, and it has already been approved as a standard of care for patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Based on a strong preclinical rationale, immunotherapy in HER2-positive breast cancer represents an intriguing field that is currently under clinical investigation. There is a close interplay between HER2-targeting therapies (both approved and under investigation) and the immune system, and several new immunotherapeutic strategies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells and therapeutic vaccines, are being studied in this disease. In this narrative review, we discuss the clinical evidence and the future perspectives of immunotherapy for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Agostinetto
- Academic Trials Promoting Team, Institut Jules Bordet, L’Université Libre de Bruxelles (U.L.B), 1070 Brussels, Belgium;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy;
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas Cancer Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Montemurro
- Direzione Breast Unit, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy;
| | - Fabio Puglisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Carmen Criscitiello
- Division of Early Drug Development, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Bianchini
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lucia Del Mastro
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Clinica di Oncologia Medica, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Medica, Università di Genova, 16124 Genova, Italy
| | - Martino Introna
- UOS Centro di Terapia Cellulare “G. Lanzani”, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy;
| | - Carlo Tondini
- Medical Oncology Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Piazza OMS 1, 27100 Bergamo, Italy;
| | - Armando Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy;
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas Cancer Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Zambelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy;
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas Cancer Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
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14
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Abstract
Breast cancer has become the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. The relapse and metastasis of breast cancer remain a great challenge despite advances in chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and HER2 targeted therapy in the past decades. Innovative therapeutic strategies are still critically in need. Cancer vaccine is an attractive option as it aims to induce a durable immunologic response to eradicate tumor cells. Different types of breast cancer vaccines have been evaluated in clinical trials, but none has led to significant benefits. Despite the disappointing results at present, new promise from the latest study indicates the possibility of applying vaccines in combination with anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies or immune checkpoint blockade. This review summarizes the principles and mechanisms underlying breast cancer vaccines, recapitulates the type and administration routes of vaccine, reviews the current results of relevant clinical trials, and addresses the potential reasons for the setbacks and future directions to explore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yuan Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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15
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Corti C, Giachetti PPMB, Eggermont AMM, Delaloge S, Curigliano G. Therapeutic vaccines for breast cancer: Has the time finally come? Eur J Cancer 2021; 160:150-174. [PMID: 34823982 PMCID: PMC8608270 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2021.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The ability to exploit the immune system as a weapon against cancer has revolutionised the treatment of cancer patients, especially through immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, ICIs demonstrated a modest benefit in treating breast cancer (BC), with the exception of certain subsets of triple-negative BCs. An immune-suppressive tumour microenvironment (TME), typically present in BC, is an important factor in the poor response to immunotherapy. After almost two decades of poor clinical trial results, cancer vaccines (CVs), an active immunotherapy, have come back in the spotlight because of some technological advancements, ultimately boosted by coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. In particular, neoantigens are emerging as the preferred targets for CVs, with gene-based and viral vector–based platforms in development. Moreover, lipid nanoparticles proved to be immunogenic and efficient delivery vehicles. Past clinical trials investigating CVs focused especially on the metastatic disease, where the TME is more likely compromised by inhibitory mechanisms. In this sense, favouring the use of CVs as monotherapy in premalignant or in the adjuvant setting and establishing combination treatments (i.e. CV plus ICI) in late-stage disease are promising strategies. This review provides a full overview of the past and current breast cancer vaccine landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Corti
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Pier P M B Giachetti
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexander M M Eggermont
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Cancer Medicine, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Suzette Delaloge
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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16
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Nordin ML, Mohamad Norpi AS, Ng PY, Yusoff K, Abu N, Lim KP, Azmi F. HER2/neu-Based Peptide Vaccination-Pulsed with B-Cell Epitope Induced Efficient Prophylactic and Therapeutic Antitumor Activities in TUBO Breast Cancer Mice Model. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4958. [PMID: 34638441 PMCID: PMC8507975 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer diagnosed among women. A cancer vaccine has been recognized as a form of immunotherapy with a prominent position in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. The majority of current breast cancer vaccination strategies aim to stimulate antitumor T-cell responses of the HER2/neu oncogene, which is abnormally expressed in breast cancer cells. However, the role of the B-cell humoral response is often underappreciated in the cancer vaccine design. We have advanced this idea by elucidating the role of B-cells in cancer vaccination by designing a chimeric antigenic peptide possessing both cytotoxic T lymphocytes (GP2) and B-cell (P4) peptide epitopes derived from HER2/neu. The chimeric peptide (GP2-P4) was further conjugated to a carrier protein (KLH), forming a KLH-GP2-P4 conjugate. The immunogenicity of KLH-GP2-P4 was compared with KLH-GP2 (lacking the B-cell epitope) in BALB/c mice. Mice immunized with KLH-GP2-P4 elicited more potent antigen-specific neutralizing antibodies against syngeneic TUBO cells (cancer cell line overexpressing HER2/neu) that was governed by a balanced Th1/Th2 polarization in comparison to KLH-GP2. Subsequently, these immune responses led to greater inhibition of tumor growth and longer survival in TUBO tumor-bearing mice in both prophylactic and therapeutic challenge experiments. Overall, our data demonstrated that the B-cell epitope has a profound effect in orchestrating an efficacious antitumor immunity. Thus, a multi-epitope peptide vaccine encompassing cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, T-helper and B-cell epitopes represents a promising strategy in developing cancer vaccines with a preventive and therapeutic modality for the effective management of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Luqman Nordin
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Kuala Lumpur Campus, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (M.L.N.); (A.S.M.N.)
- Department of Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu 16100, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Abdin Shakirin Mohamad Norpi
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Kuala Lumpur Campus, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (M.L.N.); (A.S.M.N.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Royal College of Medicine Perak, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, No.3 Jalan Greentown, Ipoh 30450, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Pei Yuen Ng
- Drug and Herbal Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia;
| | - Khatijah Yusoff
- UPM-MAKNA Cancer Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Seri Kembangan 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Nadiah Abu
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute (UMBI), UKM Medical Centre, Jalan Ya’acob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Kue Peng Lim
- Cancer Immunology & Immunotherapy Unit, Cancer Research Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan SS12/1A, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Fazren Azmi
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Kuala Lumpur Campus, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (M.L.N.); (A.S.M.N.)
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17
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Vorinostat (SAHA) and Breast Cancer: An Overview. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184700. [PMID: 34572928 PMCID: PMC8468501 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vorinostat (SAHA), an inhibitor of class I and II of histone deacetylases, is the first histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDI) approved for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in 2006. HDIs are promising anticancer agents that inhibit the proliferation of many types of cancer cells including breast carcinoma (BC). BC is a heterogeneous disease with variable biological behavior, morphological features, and response to therapy. Although significant progress in the treatment of BC has been made, high toxicity to normal cells, serious side effects, and the occurrence of multi-drug resistance limit the effective therapy of BC patients. Therefore, new active agents which improve the effectiveness of currently used regimens are highly needed. This manuscript analyzes preclinical and clinical trials data of SAHA, applied individually or in combination with other anticancer agents, considering different histological subtypes of BC.
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18
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Shi W, Qiu Q, Feng Z, Tong Z, Guo W, Zou F, Yue N, Huang W, Qian H. Design, synthesis and immunological evaluation of self-assembled antigenic peptides from dual-antigen targets: a broad-spectrum candidate for an effective antibreast cancer therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-002523. [PMID: 34083420 PMCID: PMC8183215 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Considering the narrow immune response spectrum of a single epitope, and the nanoparticles (NPs) as a novel adjuvant can achieve efficient delivery of antigenic peptides safely, a nano-system (denoted as DSPE-PEG-Man@EM-NPs) based on cathepsin B-responsive antigenic peptides was designed and synthesized. Methods Highly affinitive antigenic peptides were delivered by self-assembled NPs, and targeted erythrocyte membranes acted as a peptide carrier to improve antigenic peptides presentation and to strengthen cytotoxic T-cells reaction. Cathepsin B coupling could release antigenic peptides rapidly in dendritic cells. Results Evaluations showed that DSPE-PEG-Man@EM-NPs had obvious inhibitory effects towards both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines. Conclusion Overall, this strategy provides a novel strategy for boosting cytotoxic T lymphocytes response, thereby expanding the adaptation range of tumor antigenic peptides and improving the therapeutic effect of tumor immunotherapy with nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shi
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qianqian Qiu
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.,School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Wetland Bioresources and Environmental Protection, Yancheng Teachers' University, Yancheng 224002, China
| | - Ziying Feng
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhenzhen Tong
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Weiwei Guo
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Feng Zou
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Na Yue
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wenlong Huang
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hai Qian
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
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19
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Seyedmirzaei H, Keshavarz-Fathi M, Razi S, Gity M, Rezaei N. Recent progress in immunotherapy of breast cancer targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). J Oncol Pharm Pract 2021; 27:1235-1244. [PMID: 33530866 DOI: 10.1177/1078155221991636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breast cancer is responsible for most of the cancer-induced deaths in women around the world. The current review will discuss different approaches of targeting HER2, an epidermal growth factor overexpressed in 30% of breast cancer cases. DATA SOURCES We conducted a search on Pubmed and Scopus databases to find studies relevant to HER2+ breast cancers and targeting HER2 as means of immunotherapy. Out of 1043 articles, 105 studies were included in this review. DATA SUMMARY As well as the introduction of HER2 and breast cancer subtypes, we discussed various aspects of HER2-targeting immunotherapy including monoclonal antibodies, Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells and vaccines. CONCLUSIONS Despite several ways of controlling breast cancer, the need to investigate new drugs and approaches seems to be much significant as this cancer still has a heavy burden on people's health and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Seyedmirzaei
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Keshavarz-Fathi
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Breast Cancer Association (BrCA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Razi
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Gity
- Breast Cancer Association (BrCA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC), Advanced Imaging Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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20
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Pallerla S, Abdul AURM, Comeau J, Jois S. Cancer Vaccines, Treatment of the Future: With Emphasis on HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E779. [PMID: 33466691 PMCID: PMC7828795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. With improvements in early-stage diagnosis and targeted therapies, there has been an improvement in the overall survival rate in breast cancer over the past decade. Despite the development of targeted therapies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, as well as monoclonal antibodies and their toxin conjugates, all metastatic tumors develop resistance, and nearly one-third of HER2+ breast cancer patients develop resistance to all these therapies. Although antibody therapy has shown promising results in breast cancer patients, passive immunotherapy approaches have limitations and need continuous administration over a long period. Vaccine therapy introduces antigens that act on cancer cells causing prolonged activation of the immune system. In particular, cancer relapse could be avoided due to the presence of a longer period of immunological memory with an effective vaccine that can protect against various tumor antigens. Cancer vaccines are broadly classified as preventive and therapeutic. Preventive vaccines are used to ward off any future infections and therapeutic vaccines are used to treat a person with active disease. In this article, we provided details about the tumor environment, different types of vaccines, their advantages and disadvantages, and the current status of various vaccine candidates with a focus on vaccines for breast cancer. Current data indicate that therapeutic vaccines themselves have limitations in terms of efficacy and are used in combination with other chemotherapeutic or targeting agents. The majority of breast cancer vaccines are undergoing clinical trials and the next decade will see the fruitfulness of breast cancer vaccine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Pallerla
- School of Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences and School of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA; (S.P.); (J.C.)
| | | | - Jill Comeau
- School of Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences and School of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA; (S.P.); (J.C.)
| | - Seetharama Jois
- School of Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences and School of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA; (S.P.); (J.C.)
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21
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Mardi K, Kaur R, Negi L, Dheer A. Overexpression of HER2/Neu in gastric adenocarcinoma and its correlation with clinicopathological parameters. CLINICAL CANCER INVESTIGATION JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/ccij.ccij_130_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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22
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Zhang D, Xu X, Ye Q. Metabolism and immunity in breast cancer. Front Med 2020; 15:178-207. [PMID: 33074528 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-020-0793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies that seriously threaten women's health. In the process of the malignant transformation of breast cancer, metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion represent the two main fascinating characteristics of cancer and facilitate cancer cell proliferation. Breast cancer cells generate energy through increased glucose metabolism. Lipid metabolism contributes to biological signal pathways and forms cell membranes except energy generation. Amino acids act as basic protein units and metabolic regulators in supporting cell growth. For tumor-associated immunity, poor immunogenicity and heightened immunosuppression cause breast cancer cells to evade the host's immune system. For the past few years, the complex mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion are deeply investigated, and the genes involved in these processes are used as clinical therapeutic targets for breast cancer. Here, we review the recent findings related to abnormal metabolism and immune characteristics, regulatory mechanisms, their links, and relevant therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyu Zhang
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiaojie Xu
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Qinong Ye
- Department of Medical Molecular Biology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100850, China.
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23
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Leung KL, Verma D, Azam YJ, Bakker E. The use of multi-omics data and approaches in breast cancer immunotherapy: a review. Future Oncol 2020; 16:2101-2119. [PMID: 32857605 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is projected to be the most common cancer in women in 2020 in the USA. Despite high remission rates treatment side effects remain an issue, hence the interest in novel approaches such as immunotherapies which aim to utilize patients' immune systems to target cancer cells. This review summarizes the basics of breast cancer including staging and treatment options, followed by a discussion on immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint blockade. After this, examples of the role of omics-type data and computational biology/bioinformatics in breast cancer are explored. Ultimately, there are several promising areas to investigate such as the prediction of neoantigens and the use of multi-omics data to direct research, with noted appropriate in clinical trial design in terms of end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Lun Leung
- School of Medicine, The University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Devika Verma
- School of Medicine, The University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | | | - Emyr Bakker
- School of Medicine, The University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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24
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Joubert AI, Geppert M, Johnson L, Mills-Goodlet R, Michelini S, Korotchenko E, Duschl A, Weiss R, Horejs-Höck J, Himly M. Mechanisms of Particles in Sensitization, Effector Function and Therapy of Allergic Disease. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1334. [PMID: 32714326 PMCID: PMC7344151 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans have always been in contact with natural airborne particles from many sources including biologic particulate matter (PM) which can exhibit allergenic properties. With industrialization, anthropogenic and combustion-derived particles have become a major fraction. Currently, an ever-growing number of diverse and innovative materials containing engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are being developed with great expectations in technology and medicine. Nanomaterials have entered everyday products including cosmetics, textiles, electronics, sports equipment, as well as food, and food packaging. As part of natural evolution humans have adapted to the exposure to particulate matter, aiming to protect the individual's integrity and health. At the respiratory barrier, complications can arise, when allergic sensitization and pulmonary diseases occur in response to particle exposure. Particulate matter in the form of plant pollen, dust mites feces, animal dander, but also aerosols arising from industrial processes in occupational settings including diverse mixtures thereof can exert such effects. This review article gives an overview of the allergic immune response and addresses specifically the mechanisms of particulates in the context of allergic sensitization, effector function and therapy. In regard of the first theme (i), an overview on exposure to particulates and the functionalities of the relevant immune cells involved in allergic sensitization as well as their interactions in innate and adaptive responses are described. As relevant for human disease, we aim to outline (ii) the potential effector mechanisms that lead to the aggravation of an ongoing immune deviation (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc.) by inhaled particulates, including NPs. Even though adverse effects can be exerted by (nano)particles, leading to allergic sensitization, and the exacerbation of allergic symptoms, promising potential has been shown for their use in (iii) therapeutic approaches of allergic disease, for example as adjuvants. Hence, allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is introduced and the role of adjuvants such as alum as well as the current understanding of their mechanisms of action is reviewed. Finally, future prospects of nanomedicines in allergy treatment are described, which involve modern platform technologies combining immunomodulatory effects at several (immuno-)functional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna I Joubert
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mark Geppert
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Litty Johnson
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Robert Mills-Goodlet
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sara Michelini
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Evgeniia Korotchenko
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Albert Duschl
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Richard Weiss
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jutta Horejs-Höck
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Martin Himly
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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25
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Arab A, Yazdian-Robati R, Behravan J. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Immunotherapy: A Focus on Vaccine Development. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2020; 68:2. [PMID: 31915932 PMCID: PMC7223380 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-019-00566-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinical progress in the field of HER2-positive breast cancer therapy has been dramatically improved by understanding of the immune regulatory mechanisms of tumor microenvironment. Passive immunotherapy utilizing recombinant monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), particularly trastuzumab and pertuzumab has proved to be an effective strategy in HER2-positive breast cancer treatment. However, resistance to mAb therapy and relapse of disease are still considered important challenges in clinical practice. There are increasing reports on the induction of cellular and humoral immune responses in HER2-positive breast cancer patients. More recently, increasing efforts are focused on using HER2-derived peptide vaccines for active immunotherapy. Here, we discuss the development of various HER2-derived vaccines tested in animal models and human clinical trials. Different formulations and strategies to improve immunogenicity of the antigens in animal studies are also discussed. Furthermore, other immunotherapeutic approaches to HER2 breast cancer including, CTLA-4 inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, anti PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Arab
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Rezvan Yazdian-Robati
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Javad Behravan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. .,School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada. .,Theraphage Inc., Kitchener, ON, Canada.
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26
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An HER2-Displaying Virus-Like Particle Vaccine Protects from Challenge with Mammary Carcinoma Cells in a Mouse Model. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7020041. [PMID: 31137559 PMCID: PMC6631560 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7020041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is upregulated in 20% to 30% of breast cancers and is a marker of a poor outcome. Due to the development of resistance to passive immunotherapy with Trastuzumab, active anti-HER2 vaccination strategies that could potentially trigger durable tumor-specific immune responses have become an attractive research area. Recently, we have shown that budded virus-like particles (VLPs) produced in Sf9 insect cells are an ideal platform for the expression of complex membrane proteins. To assess the efficacy of antigen-displaying VLPs as active cancer vaccines, BALB/c mice were immunized with insect cell glycosylated and mammalian-like glycosylated HER2-displaying VLPs in combination with two different adjuvants and were challenged with HER2-positive tumors. Higher HER2-specific antibody titers and effector functions were induced in mice vaccinated with insect cell glycosylated HER2 VLPs compared to mammalian-like glycosylated counterparts. Moreover, insect cell glycosylated HER2 VLPs elicited a protective effect in mice grafted with HER2-positive mammary carcinoma cells. Interestingly, no protection was observed in mice that were adjuvanted with Poly (I:C). Here, we show that antigen-displaying VLPs produced in Sf9 insect cells were able to induce robust and durable immune responses in vivo and have the potential to be utilized as active cancer vaccines.
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Aydiner A. Systemic Treatment of HER2-Overexpressing Metastatic Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-96947-3_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Townsend MH, Shrestha G, Robison RA, O’Neill KL. The expansion of targetable biomarkers for CAR T cell therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2018; 37:163. [PMID: 30031396 PMCID: PMC6054736 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0817-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers are an integral part of cancer management due to their use in risk assessment, screening, differential diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of response to treatment, and monitoring progress of disease. Recently, with the advent of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, a new category of targetable biomarkers has emerged. These biomarkers are associated with the surface of malignant cells and serve as targets for directing cytotoxic T cells. The first biomarker target used for CAR T cell therapy was CD19, a B cell marker expressed highly on malignant B cells. With the success of CD19, the last decade has shown an explosion of new targetable biomarkers on a range of human malignancies. These surface targets have made it possible to provide directed, specific therapy that reduces healthy tissue destruction and preserves the patient's immune system during treatment. As of May 2018, there are over 100 clinical trials underway that target over 25 different surface biomarkers in almost every human tissue. This expansion has led to not only promising results in terms of patient outcome, but has also led to an exponential growth in the investigation of new biomarkers that could potentially be utilized in CAR T cell therapy for treating patients. In this review, we discuss the biomarkers currently under investigation and point out several promising biomarkers in the preclinical stage of development that may be useful as targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H. Townsend
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
| | - Gajendra Shrestha
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
- Thunder Biotech, Highland, UT USA
| | - Richard A. Robison
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
| | - Kim L. O’Neill
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
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