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Matson AW, Hullsiek RH, Dixon KJ, Wang S, Lindstedt AJ, Friess RR, Phung SK, Freedman TS, Felices M, Truckenbrod EN, Wu J, Miller JS, Walcheck B. Enhanced IL-15-mediated NK cell activation and proliferation by an ADAM17 function-blocking antibody involves CD16A, CD137, and accessory cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.09.593347. [PMID: 38798522 PMCID: PMC11118905 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.09.593347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background NK cells are being extensively studied as a cell therapy for cancer. Their effector functions are induced by the recognition of ligands on tumor cells and by various cytokines. IL-15 is broadly used to stimulate endogenous and adoptively transferred NK cells in cancer patients. These stimuli activate the membrane protease ADAM17, which then cleaves assorted receptors on the surface of NK cells as a negative feedback loop to limit their activation and function. We have shown that ADAM17 inhibition can enhance IL-15-mediated NK cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo . In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanism of this process. Methods PBMCs or enriched NK cells from human peripheral blood, either unlabeled or labeled with a cell proliferation dye, were cultured for up to 7 days in the presence of rhIL-15 +/- an ADAM17 function-blocking antibody. Different versions of the antibody were generated; Medi-1 (IgG1), Medi-4 (IgG4), Medi-PGLALA, Medi-F(ab') 2 , and TAB16 (anti-ADAM17 and anti-CD16 bispecific) to modulate CD16A engagement on NK cells. Flow cytometry was used to assess NK cell proliferation and phenotypic markers, immunoblotting to examine CD16A signaling, and IncuCyte-based live cell imaging to measure NK cell anti-tumor activity. Results The ADAM17 function-blocking mAb Medi-1 markedly increased initial NK cell activation by IL-15. Using different engineered versions of the antibody revealed that the activating Fcγ receptor CD16A, a well-described ADAM17 substrate, was critical for enhancing IL-15 stimulation. Hence, Medi-1 bound to ADAM17 on NK cells can be engaged by CD16A and block its shedding, inducing and prolonging its signaling. This process did not promote evident NK cell fratricide, phagocytosis, or dysfunction. Synergistic activity by Medi-1 and IL-15 enhanced the upregulation of CD137 on CD16A + NK cells and augmented their proliferation in the presence of PBMC accessory cells. Conclusions Our data reveal for the first time that CD16A and CD137 underpin Medi-1 enhancement of IL-15-driven NK cell activation and proliferation, respectively. The use of Medi-1 represents a novel strategy to enhance IL-15-driven NK cell proliferation, and it may be of therapeutic importance by increasing the anti-tumor activity of NK cells in cancer patients. What is already known on this topic NK cell therapies are being broadly investigated to treat cancer. NK cell stimulation by IL-15 prolongs their survival in cancer patients. Various stimuli including IL-15 activate ADAM17 in NK cells, a membrane protease that regulates the cell surface density of various receptors as a negative feedback mechanism. What this study adds Treating NK cells with the ADAM17 function-blocking mAb Medi-1 markedly enhanced their activation and proliferation. Our study reveals that the Fc and Fab regions of Medi-1 function synergistically with IL-15 in NK cell activation. Medi-1 treatment augments the upregulation of CD137 by NK cells, which enhances their proliferation in the presence of PBMC accessory cells. How this study might affect research practice or policy Our study is of translational importance as Medi-1 treatment in combination with IL-15 could potentially augment the proliferation and function of endogenous or adoptively transferred NK cells in cancer patients. Graphical abstract
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Valipour B, Mohammadi SM, Abedelahi A, Charoudeh HN. The inhibition of ADAM17 in cord blood stem cell-derived CD16 + NK cells to enhance their cytotoxicity against acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110769. [PMID: 38429146 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Fortunately, ample efforts are being made to find the best strategy to improve the anti-leukemia capacity of NK cells for treating different types of cancer. Despite the favorable ADCC capacity of functional CD16 + NK cells for immunotherapy, when NK cells face leukemia cells, the CD16 receptor is cleaved during the process mediated by a disintegrin and metalloproteinase-17(ADAM17). Reduced CD16 expression on NK cells weakens their cytotoxicity against leukemia cells. In addition, the expression of the CD47 receptor is high in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) compared to normal cells and can be correlated with poor prognosis. In the present study, ADAM17 was inhibited in cord blood-derived CD16 + NK cells, and their activity against ALL cell lines was evaluated following blockage with anti-CD47 antibody. As the results showed, the CD16 expression was reduced in the NK cells co-cultured with ALL cell lines. However, the ADAM17 inhibition increased the CD16 expression on the NK cells. This enhanced the cytotoxicity of those cells as well as cytokine production was evaluated by measuring expression of CD107-a expression, and IFN-γ production. Moreover, the presence of the ADAM17 inhibitor increased the apoptosis effect of the generated NK cells in response to ALL cells. Therefore, the inhibition of ADAM17 is useful for the activity of CD16 + NK cells against cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Valipour
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, Sarab, Iran; Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Momeneh Mohammadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Vo MC, Jung SH, Nguyen VT, Tran VDH, Ruzimurodov N, Kim SK, Nguyen XH, Kim M, Song GY, Ahn SY, Ahn JS, Yang DH, Kim HJ, Lee JJ. Exploring cellular immunotherapy platforms in multiple myeloma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27892. [PMID: 38524535 PMCID: PMC10957441 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite major advances in therapeutic platforms, most patients with multiple myeloma (MM) eventually relapse and succumb to the disease. Among the novel therapeutic options developed over the past decade, genetically engineered T cells have a great deal of potential. Cellular immunotherapies, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, are rapidly becoming an effective therapeutic modality for MM. Marrow-infiltrating lymphocytes (MILs) derived from the bone marrow of patients with MM are a novel source of T cells for adoptive T-cell therapy, which robustly and specifically target myeloma cells. In this review, we examine the recent innovations in cellular immunotherapies, including the use of dendritic cells, and cellular tools based on MILs, natural killer (NK) cells, and CAR T cells, which hold promise for improving the efficacy and/or reducing the toxicity of treatment in patients with MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manh-Cuong Vo
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Danang, Viet Nam
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Van-Tan Nguyen
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Van-Dinh-Huan Tran
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Nodirjon Ruzimurodov
- Institute of Immunology and Human Genomics of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan
| | - Sang Ki Kim
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Laboratory and Companion Animal Science, College of Industrial Science, Kongju National University, Yesan-eup, Yesan-gun, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuan-Hung Nguyen
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare system, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Mihee Kim
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Young Song
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Yeon Ahn
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sook Ahn
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Deok-Hwan Yang
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeoung-Joon Kim
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Jung Lee
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Vaxcell-Bio Therapeutics, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
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Stenger TD, Miller JS. Therapeutic approaches to enhance natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1356666. [PMID: 38545115 PMCID: PMC10966407 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1356666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhancing the cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells has emerged as a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, due to their pivotal role in immune surveillance and tumor clearance. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of therapeutic approaches designed to augment NK cell cytotoxicity. We analyze a wide range of strategies, including cytokine-based treatment, monoclonal antibodies, and NK cell engagers, and discuss criteria that must be considered when selecting an NK cell product to combine with these strategies. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and limitations associated with each therapeutic strategy, as well as the potential for combination therapies to maximize NK cell cytotoxicity while minimizing adverse effects. By exploring the wealth of research on this topic, this literature review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians seeking to develop and implement novel therapeutic strategies that harness the full potential of NK cells in the fight against cancer. Enhancing NK cell cytotoxicity holds great promise in the evolving landscape of immunotherapy, and this review serves as a roadmap for understanding the current state of the field and the future directions in NK cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terran D. Stenger
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Wang M, Krueger JB, Gilkey AK, Stelljes EM, Kluesner MG, Pomeroy EJ, Skeate JG, Slipek NJ, Lahr WS, Vázquez PNC, Zhao Y, Eaton EJ, Laoharawee K, Webber BR, Moriarity BS. Precision Enhancement of CAR-NK Cells through Non-Viral Engineering and Highly Multiplexed Base Editing. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.05.582637. [PMID: 38496503 PMCID: PMC10942345 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.05.582637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells' unique ability to kill transformed cells expressing stress ligands or lacking major histocompatibility complexes (MHC) has prompted their development for immunotherapy. However, NK cells have demonstrated only moderate responses against cancer in clinical trials and likely require advanced genome engineering to reach their full potential as a cancer therapeutic. Multiplex genome editing with CRISPR/Cas9 base editors (BE) has been used to enhance T cell function and has already entered clinical trials but has not been reported in human NK cells. Here, we report the first application of BE in primary NK cells to achieve both loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations. We observed highly efficient single and multiplex base editing, resulting in significantly enhanced NK cell function. Next, we combined multiplex BE with non-viral TcBuster transposon-based integration to generate IL-15 armored CD19 CAR-NK cells with significantly improved functionality in a highly suppressive model of Burkitt's lymphoma both in vitro and in vivo. The use of concomitant non-viral transposon engineering with multiplex base editing thus represents a highly versatile and efficient platform to generate CAR-NK products for cell-based immunotherapy and affords the flexibility to tailor multiple gene edits to maximize the effectiveness of the therapy for the cancer type being treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjing Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Joshua B Krueger
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alexandria K Gilkey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Erin M Stelljes
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Mitchell G Kluesner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emily J Pomeroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Joseph G Skeate
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nicholas J Slipek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Walker S Lahr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Patricia N Claudio Vázquez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Yueting Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ella J Eaton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kanut Laoharawee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Beau R Webber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Branden S Moriarity
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Wang YH, Hagiwara S, Kazama H, Iizuka Y, Tanaka N, Tanaka J. Elotuzumab Enhances CD16-Independent NK Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity against Myeloma Cells by Upregulating Several NK Cell-Enhancing Genes. J Immunol Res 2024; 2024:1429879. [PMID: 38444839 PMCID: PMC10914431 DOI: 10.1155/2024/1429879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an intractable hematological malignancy caused by abnormalities in plasma cells. Combination therapy using antibodies and natural killer (NK) effectors, which are innate immune cells with safe and potent antitumor activity, is a promising approach for cancer immunotherapy and can enhance antitumor effects. Elotuzumab (Elo) is an immune-stimulatory antibody that targets the signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family 7 (SLAMF7) expressed on the surface of MM and NK cells. We confirmed that Elo strongly promoted NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against SLAMF7-positive MM cells in a CD16-dependent NK cell line, and also activated expanded NK cells derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy donors and patients with MM in the present study. However, the antitumor effects and genes involved in the direct promotion of NK cell-mediated activation using Elo in CD16-independent NK cells are not clearly known. In this study, we demonstrated that Elo pretreatment significantly enhanced CD16-independent NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in both SLAMF7-positive MM.1S and SLAMF7-negative K562, U266, and RPMI 8226 tumor cells. Upon direct simulation of CD16-independent NK cells with Elo, increased levels of CD107a degranulation and IFN-γ secretion were observed along with the upregulation of granzyme B, TNF-α, and IL-1α gene expression. The enhanced NK cell function could also be attributed to the increased expression of the transcription factors T-BET and EOMES. Furthermore, the augmentation of the antitumor effects of CD16-independent NK cells upon pretreatment with Elo enhanced the expression of CRTAM, TNFRSF9, EAT-2, and FOXP3 genes and reduced the expression of HSPA6. Our results suggest that Elo directly promotes the cytotoxic function of CD16-independent NK cells against target cells, which is associated with the upregulation of the expression of several NK cell-enhancing genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Hua Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Shotaro Hagiwara
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kazama
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
- Department of Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Adachi Medical Center, 4-33-1, Kohoku, Adachi-Ku, Tokyo 123-8558, Japan
| | - Yuki Iizuka
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Norina Tanaka
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Junji Tanaka
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1, Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
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Wang K, Wang L, Wang Y, Xiao L, Wei J, Hu Y, Wang D, Huang H. Reprogramming natural killer cells for cancer therapy. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00027-3. [PMID: 38273655 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The last decade has seen rapid development in the field of cellular immunotherapy, particularly in regard to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells. However, challenges, such as severe treatment-related toxicities and inconsistent quality of autologous products, have hindered the broader use of CAR-T cell therapy, highlighting the need to explore alternative immune cells for cancer targeting. In this regard, natural killer (NK) cells have been extensively studied in cellular immunotherapy and were found to exert cytotoxic effects without being restricted by human leukocyte antigen and have a lower risk of causing graft-versus-host disease; making them favorable for the development of readily available "off-the-shelf" products. Clinical trials utilizing unedited NK cells or reprogrammed NK cells have shown early signs of their effectiveness against tumors. However, limitations, including limited in vivo persistence and expansion potential, remained. To enhance the antitumor function of NK cells, advanced gene-editing technologies and combination approaches have been explored. In this review, we summarize current clinical trials of antitumor NK cell therapy, provide an overview of innovative strategies for reprogramming NK cells, which include improvements in persistence, cytotoxicity, trafficking and the ability to counteract the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and also discuss some potential combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Linqin Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yiyun Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jieping Wei
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yongxian Hu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Dongrui Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - He Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Chen R, Feng C, Chen L, Zheng X, Fang W, Wu S, Gao X, Chen C, Yang J, Wu Y, Chen Y, Zheng P, Hu N, Yuan M, Fu Y, Ying H, Zhou J, Jiang J. Single-cell RNA sequencing indicates cordycepin remodels the tumor immune microenvironment to enhance TIGIT blockade's anti-tumor effect in colon cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 126:111268. [PMID: 37992442 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Both preclinical and clinical studies have extensively proven the effectiveness of TIGIT inhibitors in tumor immunotherapy. However, it has been discovered that the presence of CD226 on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes is crucial for the effectiveness of both anti-TIGIT therapy alone and when combined with anti-PD-1 therapy for tumors. In our investigation, we observed that cordycepin therapy significantly augmented the expression of the Cd226 gene. As a result, it was hypothesized that cordycepin therapy could enhance the effectiveness of anti-TIGIT therapy. By employing single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of immune cells in the MC38 tumor model, we discovered that cordycepin combined with anti-TIGIT therapy led to a significant increase in the proportion of NK cells within the tumor immune microenvironment. This increased NK cell activity and decreased the expression of inhibitory receptors and exhaustion marker genes. In the combination therapy group, CD8+ T cells had lower exhaustion state scores and increased cytotoxicity, indicating a better immune response. The combination therapy group increased DCs in the tumor immune microenvironment and promoted cellular interaction with CD4+ T cell and CD8+ T cell populations while decreasing Treg cell interactions. In conclusion, cordycepin with anti-TIGIT therapy in colon cancer could reshape the tumor immune microenvironment and have notable anticancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongzhang Chen
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Chen Feng
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Lujun Chen
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Weiwei Fang
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Shaoxian Wu
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Xinran Gao
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Can Chen
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Jiayi Yang
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Panpan Zheng
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Nan Hu
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Maoling Yuan
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Fu
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Department of Gynecology, Changzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Changzhou, China.
| | - Hanjie Ying
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211816, China.
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
| | - Jingting Jiang
- Department of Tumor Biological Treatment, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Tumor Immunotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China; Institute of Cell Therapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213003, China.
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9
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Acharya L, Garg A, Rai M, Kshetri R, Grewal US, Dhakal P. Novel chimeric antigen receptor targets and constructs for acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Moving beyond CD19. J Investig Med 2024; 72:32-46. [PMID: 37497999 DOI: 10.1177/10815589231191811] [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: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the second most common acute leukemia in adults with a poor prognosis with relapsed or refractory (R/R) B-cell lineage ALL (B-ALL). Anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has shown excellent response rates in RR B-ALL, but most patients relapse due to poor persistence of CAR T-cell therapy or other tumor-associated escape mechanisms. In addition, anti-CD19 CAR T-cell therapy causes several serious side effects such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. In this review, we will discuss novel CAR targets, CAR constructs, and various strategies to boost CARs for the treatment of RR B-ALL. In addition, we discuss a few novel strategies developed to reduce the side effects of CAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Acharya
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Alpana Garg
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Manoj Rai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Rupesh Kshetri
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Udhayvir S Grewal
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Prajwal Dhakal
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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10
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Zhang H, Yang L, Wang T, Li Z. NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:63-86. [PMID: 37601277 PMCID: PMC10432724 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells display a unique inherent ability to identify and eliminate virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They are particularly powerful for elimination of hematological cancers, and have attracted considerable interests for therapy of solid tumors. However, the treatment of solid tumors with NK cells are less effective, which can be attributed to the very complicated immunosuppressive microenvironment that may lead to the inactivation, insufficient expansion, short life, and the poor tumor infiltration of NK cells. Fortunately, the development of advanced nanotechnology has provided potential solutions to these issues, and could improve the immunotherapy efficacy of NK cells. In this review, we summarize the activation and inhibition mechanisms of NK cells in solid tumors, and the recent advances in NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy boosted by diverse nanomaterials. We also propose the challenges and opportunities for the clinical application of NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
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11
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Snyder KM, Dixon KJ, Davis Z, Hosking M, Hart G, Khaw M, Matson A, Bjordahl R, Hancock B, Shirinbak S, Miller JS, Valamehr B, Wu J, Walcheck B. iPSC-derived natural killer cells expressing the FcγR fusion CD64/16A can be armed with antibodies for multitumor antigen targeting. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007280. [PMID: 38056893 PMCID: PMC10711901 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007280] [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] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibody therapies can direct natural killer (NK) cells to tumor cells, tumor-associated cells, and suppressive immune cells to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). This antigen-specific effector function of human NK cells is mediated by the IgG Fc receptor CD16A (FcγRIIIA). Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that increasing the binding affinity and avidity of CD16A for antibodies improves the therapeutic potential of ADCC. CD64 (FcγRI), expressed by myeloid cells but not NK cells, is the only high affinity IgG Fc receptor and is uniquely capable of stably binding to free monomeric IgG as a physiological function. We have reported on the generation of the FcγR fusion CD64/16A, consisting of the extracellular region of CD64 and the transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions from CD16A, retaining its signaling and cellular activity. Here, we generated induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived NK (iNK) cells expressing CD64/16A as a potential adoptive NK cell therapy for increased ADCC potency. METHODS iPSCs were engineered to express CD64/16A as well as an interleukin (IL)-15/IL-15Rα fusion (IL-15RF) protein and differentiated into iNK cells. iNK cells and peripheral blood NK cells were expanded using irradiated K562-mbIL21-41BBL feeder cells and examined. NK cells, ovarian tumor cell lines, and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies were used to assess ADCC in vitro, performed by a DELFIA EuTDA assay or in real-time by IncuCyte assays, and in vivo. For the latter, we developed a xenograft mouse model with high circulating levels of human IgG for more physiological relevance. RESULTS We demonstrate that (1) iNK-CD64/16A cells after expansion or thaw from cryopreservation can be coupled to therapeutic antibodies, creating armed iNK cells; (2) antibody-armed iNK-CD64/16A cells can be redirected by added antibodies to target new tumor antigens, highlighting additional potential of these cells; (3) cytokine-autonomous activity by iNK-CD64/16A cells engineered to express IL-15RF; and that (4) antibody-armed iNK-CD64/16A cells thawed from cryopreservation are capable of sustained and robust ADCC in vitro and in vivo, as determined by using a modified tumor xenograft model with high levels of competing human IgG. CONCLUSIONS iNK cells expressing CD64/16A provide an off-the-shelf multiantigen targeting platform to address tumor heterogeneity and mitigate antigen escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Snyder
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kate J Dixon
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Zachary Davis
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Geoffrey Hart
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Melissa Khaw
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anders Matson
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jeffrey S Miller
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Jianming Wu
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Bruce Walcheck
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
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12
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Ding T, Yu Y, Gao L, Xiang L, Xu B, Gu B, Chen H. Predictive Roles of ADAM17 in Patient Survival and Immune Cell Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17069. [PMID: 38069391 PMCID: PMC10707406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the deadliest malignant tumour worldwide. The metalloproteinase ADAM17 is associated with tumour formation and development; however, its significance in HCC is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of ADAM17 in HCC and the correlation between its expression and immune cell infiltration. ADAM17 expression was analysed in pan-cancer and HCC tissues using The Cancer Genome Atlas and Genotype-Tissue Expression datasets. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis displayed a negative association between ADAM17 expression and the overall survival of patients with HCC. High ADAM17 expression was linked to poor tumour/node (T/N) stage and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes analyses revealed the enrichment of several pathways, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition, inflammatory response, Hedgehog, and KRAS signalling, in patients with upregulated ADAM17. ADAM17 was shown to be positively correlated with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint expression via the Tumour Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) database and immunohistochemistry analyses. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed that ADAM17 plays a core role in cancer development and immune evasion. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that ADAM17 influences HCC growth and metastasis. In conclusion, ADAM17 is upregulated in most cancers, particularly HCC, and is critical in the development and immune evasion of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianlong Ding
- The Department of Tumor Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China;
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Yang Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Lei Gao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Lin Xiang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Bo Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Baohong Gu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; (Y.Y.); (L.G.); (L.X.); (B.X.); (B.G.)
| | - Hao Chen
- The Department of Tumor Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China;
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13
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Vitale C, Griggio V, Perutelli F, Coscia M. CAR-modified Cellular Therapies in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Is the Uphill Road Getting Less Steep? Hemasphere 2023; 7:e988. [PMID: 38044959 PMCID: PMC10691795 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical development of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has been more challenging for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) compared to other settings. One of the main reasons is the CLL-associated state of immune dysfunction that specifically involves patient-derived T cells. Here, we provide an overview of the clinical results obtained with CAR T-cell therapy in CLL, describing the identified immunologic reasons for the inferior efficacy. Novel CAR T-cell formulations, such as lisocabtagene maraleucel, administered alone or in combination with the Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor ibrutinib, are currently under investigation. These approaches are based on the rationale that improving the quality of the T-cell source and of the CAR T-cell product may deliver a more functional therapeutic weapon. Further strategies to boost the efficacy of CAR T cells should rely not only on the production of CAR T cells with an improved cellular composition but also on additional changes. Such alterations could include (1) the coadministration of immunomodulatory agents capable of counteracting CLL-related immunological alterations, (2) the design of improved CAR constructs (such as third- and fourth-generation CARs), (3) the incorporation into the manufacturing process of immunomodulatory compounds overcoming the T-cell defects, and (4) the use of allogeneic CAR T cells or alternative CAR-modified cellular vectors. These strategies may allow to develop more effective CAR-modified cellular therapies capable of counteracting the more aggressive and still incurable forms of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candida Vitale
- University Division of Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Italy
| | - Valentina Griggio
- University Division of Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Perutelli
- University Division of Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Italy
| | - Marta Coscia
- University Division of Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Italy
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14
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Fantini M, Arlen PM, Tsang KY. Potentiation of natural killer cells to overcome cancer resistance to NK cell-based therapy and to enhance antibody-based immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1275904. [PMID: 38077389 PMCID: PMC10704476 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1275904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cellular components of the innate immune system that can recognize and suppress the proliferation of cancer cells. NK cells can eliminate cancer cells through direct lysis, by secreting perforin and granzymes, or through antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). ADCC involves the binding of the Fc gamma receptor IIIa (CD16), present on NK cells, to the constant region of an antibody already bound to cancer cells. Cancer cells use several mechanisms to evade antitumor activity of NK cells, including the accumulation of inhibitory cytokines, recruitment and expansion of immune suppressor cells such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs), modulation of ligands for NK cells receptors. Several strategies have been developed to enhance the antitumor activity of NK cells with the goal of overcoming cancer cells resistance to NK cells. The three main strategies to engineer and boost NK cells cytotoxicity include boosting NK cells with modulatory cytokines, adoptive NK cell therapy, and the employment of engineered NK cells to enhance antibody-based immunotherapy. Although the first two strategies improved the efficacy of NK cell-based therapy, there are still some limitations, including immune-related adverse events, induction of immune-suppressive cells and further cancer resistance to NK cell killing. One strategy to overcome these issues is the combination of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that mediate ADCC and engineered NK cells with potentiated anti-cancer activity. The advantage of using mAbs with ADCC activity is that they can activate NK cells, but also favor the accumulation of immune effector cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME). Several clinical trials reported that combining engineered NK cells with mAbs with ADCC activity can result in a superior clinical response compared to mAbs alone. Next generation of clinical trials, employing engineered NK cells with mAbs with higher affinity for CD16 expressed on NK cells, will provide more effective and higher-quality treatments to cancer patients.
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15
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Rauch-Wirth L, Renner A, Kaygisiz K, Weil T, Zimmermann L, Rodriguez-Alfonso AA, Schütz D, Wiese S, Ständker L, Weil T, Schmiedel D, Münch J. Optimized peptide nanofibrils as efficient transduction enhancers for in vitro and ex vivo gene transfer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1270243. [PMID: 38022685 PMCID: PMC10666768 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1270243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a groundbreaking immunotherapy for cancer. However, the intricate and costly manufacturing process remains a hurdle. Improving the transduction rate is a potential avenue to cut down costs and boost therapeutic efficiency. Peptide nanofibrils (PNFs) serve as one such class of transduction enhancers. PNFs bind to negatively charged virions, facilitating their active engagement by cellular protrusions, which enhances virion attachment to cells, leading to increased cellular entry and gene transfer rates. While first-generation PNFs had issues with aggregate formation and potential immunogenicity, our study utilized in silico screening to identify short, endogenous, and non-immunogenic peptides capable of enhancing transduction. This led to the discovery of an 8-mer peptide, RM-8, which forms PNFs that effectively boost T cell transduction rates by various retroviral vectors. A subsequent structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis refined RM-8, resulting in the D4 derivative. D4 peptide is stable and assembles into smaller PNFs, avoiding large aggregate formation, and demonstrates superior transduction rates in primary T and NK cells. In essence, D4 PNFs present an economical and straightforward nanotechnological tool, ideal for refining ex vivo gene transfer in CAR-T cell production and potentially other advanced therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Rauch-Wirth
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexander Renner
- Department for Cell and Gene Therapy Development, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kübra Kaygisiz
- Department Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tatjana Weil
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Laura Zimmermann
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Armando A. Rodriguez-Alfonso
- Core Facility Functional Peptidomics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Core Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Desiree Schütz
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wiese
- Core Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility Functional Peptidomics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tanja Weil
- Department Synthesis of Macromolecules, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Mainz, Germany
| | - Dominik Schmiedel
- Department for Cell and Gene Therapy Development, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jan Münch
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Core Facility Functional Peptidomics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
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16
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Borde S, Matosevic S. Metabolic adaptation of NK cell activity and behavior in tumors: challenges and therapeutic opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:832-848. [PMID: 37770314 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.08.009] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The adaptation of natural killer (NK) cells to conditions in the microenvironment of tumors is deeply affected by their metabolic activity, itself a result of nutrient availability and the metabolism of the cancer cells themselves. Elevated rates of glycolysis and lipid metabolism in cancers not only lead to the accumulation of immunosuppressive byproducts but also contribute to an environment of elevated concentrations of extracellular metabolites. This results in altered NK cell bioenergetics through changes in transcriptional and translational profiles, ultimately affecting their pharmacology and impairing NK cell responses. However, understanding the metabolic processes that drive alterations in immunological signaling on NK cells remains both difficult and vastly underexplored. We discuss the varied and complex drivers of NK cell metabolism in homeostasis and the tumor microenvironment (TME), challenges associated with their targetability, and unexplored therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shambhavi Borde
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Sandro Matosevic
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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17
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Bexte T, Reindl LM, Ullrich E. Nonviral technologies can pave the way for CAR-NK cell therapy. J Leukoc Biol 2023; 114:475-486. [PMID: 37403203 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells are a promising platform for cancer immunotherapy. Natural killer cells have high intrinsic killing capability, and the insertion of a chimeric antigen receptor can further enhance their antitumor potential. In first-in-human trials, chimeric antigen receptor-natural killer cells demonstrated strong clinical activity without therapy-induced side effects. The applicability of natural killer cells as an "off-the-shelf" product makes them highly attractive for gene-engineered cell therapies. Traditionally, viral transduction has been used for gene editing; however, the use of viral vectors remains a safety concern and is associated with high costs and regulatory requirements. Here, we review the current landscape of nonviral approaches for chimeric antigen receptor-natural killer cell generation. This includes transfection of vector particles and electroporation of mRNA and DNA vectors, resulting in transient modification and chimeric antigen receptor expression. In addition, using nonviral transposon technologies, natural killer cells can be stably modified ensuring long-lasting chimeric antigen receptor expression. Finally, we discuss CRISPR/Cas9 tools to edit key genes for natural killer cell functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bexte
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Department of Pediatrics, Experimental Immunology & Cell Therapy, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT), Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Career Center (MSNZ), Hospital of the Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Reindl
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Department of Pediatrics, Experimental Immunology & Cell Therapy, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Department of Pediatrics, Experimental Immunology & Cell Therapy, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 42-44, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT), Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Career Center (MSNZ), Hospital of the Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz; Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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18
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Sugawara S, Hueber B, Woolley G, Terry K, Kroll K, Manickam C, Ram DR, Ndhlovu LC, Goepfert P, Jost S, Reeves RK. Multiplex interrogation of the NK cell signalome reveals global downregulation of CD16 signaling during lentivirus infection through an IL-18/ADAM17-dependent mechanism. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011629. [PMID: 37669308 PMCID: PMC10503717 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite their importance, natural killer (NK) cell responses are frequently dysfunctional during human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infections, even irrespective of antiretroviral therapies, with poorly understood underlying mechanisms. NK cell surface receptor modulation in lentivirus infection has been extensively studied, but a deeper interrogation of complex cell signaling is mostly absent, largely due to the absence of any comprehensive NK cell signaling assay. To fill this knowledge gap, we developed a novel multiplex signaling analysis to broadly assess NK cell signaling. Using this assay, we elucidated that NK cells exhibit global signaling reduction from CD16 both in people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) and SIV-infected rhesus macaques. Intriguingly, antiretroviral treatment did not fully restore diminished CD16 signaling in NK cells from PLWH. As a putative mechanism, we demonstrated that NK cells increased surface ADAM17 expression via elevated plasma IL-18 levels during HIV-1 infection, which in turn reduced surface CD16 downregulation. We also illustrated that CD16 expression and signaling can be restored by ADAM17 perturbation. In summary, our multiplex NK cell signaling analysis delineated unique NK cell signaling perturbations specific to lentiviral infections, resulting in their dysfunction. Our analysis also provides mechanisms that will inform the restoration of dysregulated NK cell functions, offering potential insights for the development of new NK cell-based immunotherapeutics for HIV-1 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Sugawara
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Brady Hueber
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Griffin Woolley
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Karen Terry
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kyle Kroll
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Cordelia Manickam
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Daniel R. Ram
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, New York, United States of America
| | - Paul Goepfert
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Jost
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - R. Keith Reeves
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Liu J, Ye L, Lin K, Zhong T, Luo J, Wang T, Suo L, Mo Q, Li S, Chen Q, Yu Y. miR-4299 inhibits tumor progression in pancreatic cancer through targeting ADAM17. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:1727-1742. [PMID: 36565360 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04617-8] [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: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive malignant tumors in human beings. Tumor capacity of evading immune-mediated lysis is a critical step in PC malignant progression. We aimed to evaluate the underlying regulatory mechanism of miR-4299 in the proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, and immune escape in PC. miR-4299 and ADAM17 expressions in PC tissues and cell lines were detected using qRT-PCR. MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. A luciferase reporter gene assay was conducted to confirm the targeted relationship between miR-4299 and ADAM17. Xenograft tumors in nude mice were used to detect tumorigenesis in vivo. PC cells were co-cultured with NK cells for determining the immune escape ability. NKG2D-positive rate of NK cells was detected using flow cytometry; NK cell-killing ability was detected using MTT assay. miR-4299 was downregulated in PC tissues and cell lines. miR-4299 inhibited PC cell proliferation and invasion, promoted cell apoptosis, and reduced PC tumor growth in vivo. ADAM17 3'UTR directly bound to miR-4299. ADAM17 overexpression could reverse miR-4299 effects on PC cell viability, invasion, apoptosis, and immune escape. miR-4299 exerted suppressive effects on PC cell proliferation, invasion, and immune escape via targeting ADAM17 expression. This study revealed a novel miR-4299/ADAM17 axis-modulating PC progression and proposed to concern the immune regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in PC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhong Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Lin Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Kangqiang Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Tieshan Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Jiguang Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Liya Suo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Qingrong Mo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Shuqun Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China
| | - Yaqun Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541002, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine in Liver Injury and Repair, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541001, Guangxi, China.
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20
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Dahlvang JD, Dick JK, Sangala JA, Kennedy PR, Pomeroy EJ, Snyder KM, Moushon JM, Thefaine CE, Wu J, Hamilton SE, Felices M, Miller JS, Walcheck B, Webber BR, Moriarity BS, Hart GT. Ablation of SYK Kinase from Expanded Primary Human NK Cells via CRISPR/Cas9 Enhances Cytotoxicity and Cytokine Production. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:1108-1122. [PMID: 36881874 PMCID: PMC10073313 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
CMV infection alters NK cell phenotype and function toward a more memory-like immune state. These cells, termed adaptive NK cells, typically express CD57 and NKG2C but lack expression of the FcRγ-chain (gene: FCER1G, FcRγ), PLZF, and SYK. Functionally, adaptive NK cells display enhanced Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and cytokine production. However, the mechanism behind this enhanced function is unknown. To understand what drives enhanced ADCC and cytokine production in adaptive NK cells, we optimized a CRISPR/Cas9 system to ablate genes from primary human NK cells. We ablated genes that encode molecules in the ADCC pathway, such as FcRγ, CD3ζ, SYK, SHP-1, ZAP70, and the transcription factor PLZF, and tested subsequent ADCC and cytokine production. We found that ablating the FcRγ-chain caused a modest increase in TNF-α production. Ablation of PLZF did not enhance ADCC or cytokine production. Importantly, SYK kinase ablation significantly enhanced cytotoxicity, cytokine production, and target cell conjugation, whereas ZAP70 kinase ablation diminished function. Ablating the phosphatase SHP-1 enhanced cytotoxicity but reduced cytokine production. These results indicate that the enhanced cytotoxicity and cytokine production of CMV-induced adaptive NK cells is more likely due to the loss of SYK than the lack of FcRγ or PLZF. We found the lack of SYK expression could improve target cell conjugation through enhanced CD2 expression or limit SHP-1-mediated inhibition of CD16A signaling, leading to enhanced cytotoxicity and cytokine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D. Dahlvang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jenna K. Dick
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jules A. Sangala
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Philippa R. Kennedy
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Emily J. Pomeroy
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kristin M. Snyder
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Veterinary and Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Juliette M. Moushon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Claire E. Thefaine
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jianming Wu
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Veterinary and Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Sara E. Hamilton
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Martin Felices
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Miller
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Bruce Walcheck
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Veterinary and Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Beau R. Webber
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Branden S. Moriarity
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Geoffrey T. Hart
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Lead contact
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21
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Wong JKM, Dolcetti R, Rhee H, Simpson F, Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes F. Weaponizing natural killer cells for solid cancer immunotherapy. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:111-121. [PMID: 36379852 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Enhancing natural killer (NK) cell-based innate immunity has become a promising strategy for immunotherapy against hard-to-cure solid cancers. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy has been used to activate NK-cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) towards solid cancers. Cancer cells, however, can subvert immunosurveillance using multiple immunosuppressive mechanisms, which may hamper NK cell ADCC. Mechanisms to safely enhance ADCC by NK cells, such as utilizing temporary inhibition of receptor endocytosis to increase antibody presentation from target to effector cells can now be used to enhance NK-cell-mediated ADCC against solid tumors. This review summarizes and discusses the recent advances in the field and highlights current and potential future use of immunotherapies to maximize the therapeutic efficacy of innate anticancer immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua K M Wong
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Riccardo Dolcetti
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Handoo Rhee
- Princess Alexandra Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Jubilee II Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; The School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Fiona Simpson
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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22
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Maalej KM, Merhi M, Inchakalody VP, Mestiri S, Alam M, Maccalli C, Cherif H, Uddin S, Steinhoff M, Marincola FM, Dermime S. CAR-cell therapy in the era of solid tumor treatment: current challenges and emerging therapeutic advances. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:20. [PMID: 36717905 PMCID: PMC9885707 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01723-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has emerged as a promising immunotherapeutic approach to fight cancers. This approach consists of genetically engineered immune cells expressing a surface receptor, called CAR, that specifically targets antigens expressed on the surface of tumor cells. In hematological malignancies like leukemias, myeloma, and non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas, adoptive CAR-T cell therapy has shown efficacy in treating chemotherapy refractory patients. However, the value of this therapy remains inconclusive in the context of solid tumors and is restrained by several obstacles including limited tumor trafficking and infiltration, the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, as well as adverse events associated with such therapy. Recently, CAR-Natural Killer (CAR-NK) and CAR-macrophages (CAR-M) were introduced as a complement/alternative to CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. CAR-NK cells could be a favorable substitute for CAR-T cells since they do not require HLA compatibility and have limited toxicity. Additionally, CAR-NK cells might be generated in large scale from several sources which would suggest them as promising off-the-shelf product. CAR-M immunotherapy with its capabilities of phagocytosis, tumor-antigen presentation, and broad tumor infiltration, is currently being investigated. Here, we discuss the emerging role of CAR-T, CAR-NK, and CAR-M cells in solid tumors. We also highlight the advantages and drawbacks of CAR-NK and CAR-M cells compared to CAR-T cells. Finally, we suggest prospective solutions such as potential combination therapies to enhance the efficacy of CAR-cells immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karama Makni Maalej
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Varghese P. Inchakalody
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarra Mestiri
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Majid Alam
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Cristina Maccalli
- grid.467063.00000 0004 0397 4222Laboratory of Immune and Biological Therapy, Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Honar Cherif
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Hematology, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Dermatology Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XDepartment of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar ,grid.416973.e0000 0004 0582 4340Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar ,grid.412603.20000 0004 0634 1084College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar ,grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Francesco M. Marincola
- grid.418227.a0000 0004 0402 1634Global Head of Research, Kite Pharma, Santa Monica, California USA
| | - Said Dermime
- grid.413548.f0000 0004 0571 546XTranslational Cancer Research Facility, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box: 3050, Doha, Qatar ,grid.452146.00000 0004 1789 3191College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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23
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Baroja-Mazo A, Peñín-Franch A, Lucas-Ruiz F, de Torre-Minguela C, Alarcón-Vila C, Hernández-Caselles T, Pelegrín P. P2X7 receptor activation impairs antitumour activity of natural killer cells. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:111-128. [PMID: 36098250 PMCID: PMC10092446 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE A high number of intratumoural infiltrating natural killer (NK) cells is associated with better survival in several types of cancer, constituting an important first line of defence against tumours. Hypoxia in the core of solid tumours induces cellular stress and ATP release into the extracellular space where it triggers purinergic receptor activation on tumour-associated immune cells. The aim of this study was to assess whether activation of the purinergic receptor P2X7 by extracellular ATP plays a role in the NK cells antitumour activity. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We carried out in vitro experiments using purified human NK cells triggered through P2X7 by extracellular ATP. NK cell killing activity against the tumour target cells K562 was studied by means of NK cytotoxicity assays. Likewise, we designed a subcutaneous solid tumour in vivo mouse model. KEY RESULTS In this study we found that human NK cells, expressing a functional plasma membrane P2X7, acquired an anergic state after ATP treatment, which impaired their antitumour activity and decreased IFN-γ secretion. This effect was reversed by specific P2X7 antagonists and pretreatment with either IL-2 or IL-15. Furthermore, genetic P2rx7 knockdown resulted in improved control of tumour size by NK cells. In addition, IL-2 therapy restored the ability of NK cells to diminish the size of tumours. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results show that P2X7 activation represents a new mechanism whereby NK cells may lose antitumour effectiveness, opening the possibility of generating modified NK cells lacking P2X7 but with improved antitumour capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Baroja-Mazo
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Peñín-Franch
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Fernando Lucas-Ruiz
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Carlos de Torre-Minguela
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Alarcón-Vila
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Trinidad Hernández-Caselles
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology B and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo Pelegrín
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Pascual Parrilla), University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology B and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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24
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Wang Q, Wang K, Tan X, Li Z, Wang H. Immunomodulatory role of metalloproteases in cancers: Current progress and future trends. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1064033. [PMID: 36591235 PMCID: PMC9800621 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1064033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metalloproteinases (MPs) is a large family of proteinases with metal ions in their active centers. According to the different domains metalloproteinases can be divided into a variety of subtypes mainly including Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), A Disintegrin and Metalloproteases (ADAMs) and ADAMs with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTS). They have various functions such as protein hydrolysis, cell adhesion and remodeling of extracellular matrix. Metalloproteinases expressed in multiple types of cancers and participate in many pathological processes involving tumor genesis and development, invasion and metastasis by regulating signal transduction and tumor microenvironment. In this review, based on the current research progress, we summarized the structure of MPs, their expression and especially immunomodulatory role and mechanisms in cancers. Additionally, a relevant and timely update of recent advances and future directions were provided for the diagnosis and immunotherapy targeting MPs in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaojing Tan
- Department of Oncology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying, China
| | - Zhenxiang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Zhenxiang Li, ; Haiyong Wang,
| | - Haiyong Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Zhenxiang Li, ; Haiyong Wang,
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25
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Modern Advances in CARs Therapy and Creating a New Approach to Future Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315006. [PMID: 36499331 PMCID: PMC9739283 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315006] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered T and NK cells expressing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) are promising cytotoxic cells for the treatment of hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Despite the successful therapies using CAR-T cells, they have some disadvantages, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurotoxicity, or graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD). CAR-NK cells have lack or minimal cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, but also multiple mechanisms of cytotoxic activity. NK cells are suitable for developing an "off the shelf" therapeutic product that causes little or no graft versus host disease (GvHD), but they are more sensitive to apoptosis and have low levels of gene expression compared to CAR-T cells. To avoid these adverse effects, further developments need to be considered to enhance the effectiveness of adoptive cellular immunotherapy. A promising approach to enhance the effectiveness of adoptive cellular immunotherapy is overcoming terminal differentiation or senescence and exhaustion of T cells. In this case, EVs derived from immune cells in combination therapy with drugs may be considered in the treatment of cancer patients, especially effector T and NK cells-derived exosomes with the cytotoxic activity of their original cells.
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26
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Wang K, Xuan Z, Liu X, Zheng M, Yang C, Wang H. Immunomodulatory role of metalloproteinase ADAM17 in tumor development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1059376. [PMID: 36466812 PMCID: PMC9715963 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1059376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
ADAM17 is a member of the a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) family of transmembrane proteases involved in the shedding of some cell membrane proteins and regulating various signaling pathways. More than 90 substrates are regulated by ADAM17, some of which are closely relevant to tumor formation and development. Besides, ADAM17 is also responsible for immune regulation and its substrate-mediated signal transduction. Recently, ADAM17 has been considered as a major target for the treatment of tumors and yet its immunomodulatory roles and mechanisms remain unclear. In this paper, we summarized the recent understanding of structure and several regulatory roles of ADAM17. Importantly, we highlighted the immunomodulatory roles of ADAM17 in tumor development, as well as small molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies targeting ADAM17.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zixue Xuan
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Meiling Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Chao Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Institute of Innovation & Application, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Haiyong Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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27
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Li H, Song W, Li Z, Zhang M. Preclinical and clinical studies of CAR-NK-cell therapies for malignancies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:992232. [PMID: 36353643 PMCID: PMC9637940 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.992232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, a specific type of immunotherapy, in recent decades was a fantastic breakthrough for the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, difficulties in collecting normal T cells from patients and the time cost of manufacturing CAR-T cells have limited the application of CAR-T-cell therapy. In addition, the termination of related clinical trials on universal CAR-T cell therapy has made further research more difficult. Natural killer (NK) cells have drawn great attention in recent years. Chimeric antigen receptor-NK (CAR-NK) cell therapy is a promising strategy in the treatment of malignant tumors because of its lack of potential for causing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). In this review, we will address the advances in and achievements of CAR-NK cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwen Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment and Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Translational Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wenting Song
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment and Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Translational Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhaoming Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment and Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Translational Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment and Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Translational Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Mingzhi Zhang,
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28
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Nong C, Guan P, Li L, Zhang H, Hu H. Tumor immunotherapy: Mechanisms and clinical applications. MEDCOMM – ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/mog2.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Nong
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Pengbo Guan
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Li Li
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Huiyuan Zhang
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
- Chongqing International Institution for Immunology Chongqing China
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29
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Advances of research of Fc-fusion protein that activate NK cells for tumor immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 109:108783. [PMID: 35561479 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The rapid development of bioengineering technology has introduced Fc-fusion proteins, representing a novel kind of recombinant protein, as promising biopharmaceutical products in tumor therapy. Numerous related anti-tumor Fc-fusion proteins have been investigated and are in different stages of development. Fc-fusion proteins are constructed by fusing the Fc-region of the antibody with functional proteins or peptides. They retain the bioactivity of the latter and partial properties of the former. This structural and functional advantage makes Fc-fusion proteins an effective tool in tumor immunotherapy, especially for the recruitment and activation of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a critical role in tumor immunotherapy. Even though tumor cells have developed mechanisms to circumvent the cytotoxic effect of NK cells or induce defective NK cells, Fc-fusion proteins have been proven to effectively activate NK cells to kill tumor cells in different ways, such as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), activate NK cells in different ways in order to promote killing of tumor cells. In this review, we focus on NK cell-based immunity for cancers and current research progress of the Fc-fusion proteins for anti-tumor therapy by activating NK cells.
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30
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Hullsiek R, Li Y, Snyder KM, Wang S, Di D, Borgatti A, Lee C, Moore PF, Zhu C, Fattori C, Modiano JF, Wu J, Walcheck B. Examination of IgG Fc Receptor CD16A and CD64 Expression by Canine Leukocytes and Their ADCC Activity in Engineered NK Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:841859. [PMID: 35281028 PMCID: PMC8907477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human natural killer (NK) cells can target tumor cells in an antigen-specific manner by the recognition of cell bound antibodies. This process induces antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and is exclusively mediated by the low affinity IgG Fc receptor CD16A (FcγRIIIA). Exploiting ADCC by NK cells is a major area of emphasis for advancing cancer immunotherapies. CD64 (FcγRI) is the only high affinity IgG FcR and it binds to the same IgG isotypes as CD16A, but it is not expressed by human NK cells. We have generated engineered human NK cells expressing recombinant CD64 with the goal of increasing their ADCC potency. Preclinical testing of this approach is essential for establishing efficacy and safety of the engineered NK cells. The dog provides particular advantages as a model, which includes spontaneous development of cancer in the setting of an intact and outbred immune system. To advance this immunotherapy model, we cloned canine CD16A and CD64 and generated specific mAbs. We report here for the first time the expression patterns of these FcγRs on dog peripheral blood leukocytes. CD64 was expressed by neutrophils and monocytes, but not lymphocytes, while canine CD16A was expressed at high levels by a subset of monocytes and lymphocytes. These expression patterns are similar to that of human leukocytes. Based on phenotypic characteristics, the CD16A+ lymphocytes consisted of T cells (CD3+ CD8+ CD5dim α/β TCR+) and NK cells (CD3− CD5− CD94+), but not B cells. Interestingly, the majority of canine CD16A+ lymphocytes were from the T cell population. Like human CD16A, canine CD16A was downregulated by a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM17) upon leukocyte activation, revealing a conserved means of regulation. We also directly demonstrate that both canine CD16A and CD64 can induce ADCC when expressed in the NK cell line NK-92. These findings pave the way to engineering canine NK cells or T cells with high affinity recombinant canine CD64 to maximize ADCC and to test their safety and efficacy to benefit both humans and dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hullsiek
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Yunfang Li
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Kristin M Snyder
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Sam Wang
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Da Di
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Antonella Borgatti
- Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Clinical Investigation Center, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Chae Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Peter F Moore
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Cong Zhu
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Chiara Fattori
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jaime F Modiano
- Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jianming Wu
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Bruce Walcheck
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Animal Cancer Care and Research Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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31
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Kennedy PR, Felices M, Miller JS. Challenges to the broad application of allogeneic natural killer cell immunotherapy of cancer. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:165. [PMID: 35414042 PMCID: PMC9006579 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells that recognize malignant cells through a wide array of germline-encoded receptors. Triggering of activating receptors results in cytotoxicity and broad immune system activation. The former is achieved through release of cytotoxic granules and presentation of death receptor ligands, while the latter is mediated by inflammatory cytokines, such as interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor α. Early success with ex vivo activation of NK cells and adoptive transfer suggest they are a safe therapeutic with promising responses in advanced hematologic malignancies. In particular, adoptive NK cell therapies can serve as a 'bridge' to potentially curative allogeneic stem cell transplantation. In addition, strategies are being developed that expand large numbers of cells from limited starting material and mature NK cells from precursors. Together, these make 'off-the-shelf' NK cells possible to treat a wide range of cancers. Research efforts have focused on creating a range of tools that increase targeting of therapeutic NK cells toward cancer-from therapeutic antibodies that drive antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, to chimeric antigen receptors. As these novel therapies start to show promise in clinical trials, the field is rapidly moving toward addressing other challenges that limit NK cell therapeutics and the goal to treat solid tumors. This review describes the state of therapeutic NK cell targeting of tumors; discusses the challenges that need to be addressed before NK cells can be applied as a wide-ranging treatment for cancer; and points to some of the innovations that are being developed to surmount these challenges. Suppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment pose a direct threat to therapeutic NK cells, through presentation of inhibitory ligands and secretion of suppressive cytokines and metabolites. The nutrient- and oxygen-starved conditions under which NK cells must function necessitate an understanding of therapeutic NK cell metabolism that is still emerging. Prior to these challenges, NK cells must find their way into and persist in the tumor itself. Finally, the desirability of a 'single-shot' NK cell treatment and the problems and benefits of a short-lived rejection-prone NK cellular product are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa R Kennedy
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, MCRB Rm 520, 425 E River Rd Parkway, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Martin Felices
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, MCRB Rm 520, 425 E River Rd Parkway, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, MCRB Rm 520, 425 E River Rd Parkway, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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32
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Chikileva I, Shubina I, Burtseva AM, Kirgizov K, Stepanyan N, Varfolomeeva S, Kiselevskiy M. Antiviral Cell Products against COVID-19: Learning Lessons from Previous Research in Anti-Infective Cell-Based Agents. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040868. [PMID: 35453618 PMCID: PMC9027720 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a real challenge for the protective immunity. Some people do not respond to vaccination by acquiring an appropriate immunological memory. The risk groups for this particular infection such as the elderly and people with compromised immunity (cancer patients, pregnant women, etc.) have the most serious problems in developing an adequate immune response. Therefore, dendritic cell (DC) vaccines that are loaded ex vivo with SARS-CoV-2 antigens in the optimal conditions are promising for immunization. Lymphocyte effector cells with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR lymphocytes) are currently used mainly as anti-tumor treatment. Before 2020, few studies on the antiviral CAR lymphocytes were reported, but since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 the number of such studies has increased. The basis for CARs against SARS-CoV-2 were several virus-specific neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. We propose a similar, but basically novel and more universal approach. The extracellular domain of the immunoglobulin G receptors will be used as the CAR receptor domain. The specificity of the CAR will be determined by the antibodies, which it has bound. Therefore, such CAR lymphocytes are highly universal and have functional activity against any infectious agents that have protective antibodies binding to a foreign surface antigen on the infected cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Chikileva
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Irina Shubina
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Anzhelika-Mariia Burtseva
- College of New Materials and Nanotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, 119049 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Kirill Kirgizov
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Nara Stepanyan
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Svetlana Varfolomeeva
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Mikhail Kiselevskiy
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
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33
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Elmas E, Saljoughian N, de Souza Fernandes Pereira M, Tullius BP, Sorathia K, Nakkula RJ, Lee DA, Naeimi Kararoudi M. CRISPR Gene Editing of Human Primary NK and T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:834002. [PMID: 35449580 PMCID: PMC9016158 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.834002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antitumor activity of immune cells such as T cells and NK cells has made them auspicious therapeutic regimens for adaptive cancer immunotherapy. Enhancing their cytotoxic effects against malignancies and overcoming their suppression in tumor microenvironment (TME) may improve their efficacy to treat cancers. Clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) genome editing has become one of the most popular tools to enhance immune cell antitumor activity. In this review we highlight applications and practicability of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and engineering strategies for cancer immunotherapy. In addition, we have reviewed several approaches to study CRISPR off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Elmas
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Noushin Saljoughian
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- CRISPR/Gene Editing Core, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Marcelo de Souza Fernandes Pereira
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Brian P. Tullius
- Pediatric Cellular Therapy, AdventHealth for Children, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Kinnari Sorathia
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Robin J. Nakkula
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Dean A. Lee
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Meisam Naeimi Kararoudi
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- CRISPR/Gene Editing Core, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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34
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Pan J, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Xu Y. ADAM12 as a Clinical Prognostic Indicator Associated with Tumor Immune Infiltration in Lung Adenocarcinoma. DNA Cell Biol 2022; 41:410-423. [PMID: 35377217 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2021.0764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Twenty-two functional α-disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) have been identified in humans, 12 of which have proteolytic activity. The role of ADAMs in cancer has attracted increasing attention. However, the expression and significance of ADAMs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain unclear. Most recently, we investigated the transcriptional data of ADAMs and related overall survival in patients with LUAD based on several databases, including TCGA, cBioPortal, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, LinkedOmics, KEGG, TIMER, and TISIDB. Knockdown of ADAM12 was performed in vitro to verify its biological function. According to our findings, 10 ADAMs exhibited significant differential expression in LUAD compared with cancer-adjacent normal tissues. ADAM12 expression was significantly higher in LUAD tissues than in paracancerous tissues, and lower ADAM12 expression was associated with better survival. Genetic alterations of ADAM12 mainly included missense mutations, amplifications, and deep deletions. ADAM12 and positively correlated genes were mainly enriched in protein digestion and absorption, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, and adhesion plaques. ADAM12 had a moderate correlation with immune cell markers EBIP1, CCNB1, EXO1, KNTC1, PRC1, and FAM198B. Prognostic model was established based on ADAM12 and immune-related genes. In vitro experiments revealed that knocking down ADAM12 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. ADAM12 potentially plays an important role in the occurrence of LUAD and may be utilized as an immunotherapy target and a valuable prognostic biomarker for LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfan Pan
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China.,Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhidong Huang
- Quanzhou First Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yiquan Xu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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35
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Goldenson BH, Hor P, Kaufman DS. iPSC-Derived Natural Killer Cell Therapies - Expansion and Targeting. Front Immunol 2022; 13:841107. [PMID: 35185932 PMCID: PMC8851389 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of cancer with allogeneic natural killer (NK) cell therapies has seen rapid development, especially use against hematologic malignancies. Clinical trials of NK cell-based adoptive transfer to treat relapsed or refractory malignancies have used peripheral blood, umbilical cord blood and pluripotent stem cell-derived NK cells, with each approach undergoing continued clinical development. Improving the potency of these therapies relies on genetic modifications to improve tumor targeting and to enhance expansion and persistence of the NK cells. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived NK cells allow for routine targeted introduction of genetic modifications and expansion of the resulting NK cells derived from a clonal starting cell population. In this review, we discuss and summarize recent important advances in the development of new iPSC-derived NK cell therapies, with a focus on improved targeting of cancer. We then discuss improvements in methods to expand iPSC-derived NK cells and how persistence of iPSC-NK cells can be enhanced. Finally, we describe how these advances may combine in future NK cell-based therapy products for the treatment of both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Goldenson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Pooja Hor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Dan S Kaufman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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36
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Schmidt D, Ebrahimabadi S, Gomes KRDS, de Moura Aguiar G, Cariati Tirapelle M, Nacasaki Silvestre R, de Azevedo JTC, Tadeu Covas D, Picanço-Castro V. Engineering CAR-NK cells: how to tune innate killer cells for cancer immunotherapy. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2022; 2:ltac003. [PMID: 35919494 PMCID: PMC9327111 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy is an innovative approach that permits numerous possibilities in the field of cancer treatment. CAR-T cells have been successfully used in patients with hematologic relapsed/refractory. However, the need for autologous sources for T cells is still a major drawback. CAR-NK cells have emerged as a promising resource using allogeneic cells that could be established as an off-the-shelf treatment. NK cells can be obtained from various sources, such as peripheral blood (PB), bone marrow, umbilical cord blood (CB), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), as well as cell lines. Genetic engineering of NK cells to express different CAR constructs for hematological cancers and solid tumors has shown promising preclinical results and they are currently being explored in multiple clinical trials. Several strategies have been employed to improve CAR-NK-cell expansion and cytotoxicity efficiency. In this article, we review the latest achievements and progress made in the field of CAR-NK-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayane Schmidt
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sima Ebrahimabadi
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kauan Ribeiro de Sena Gomes
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Graziela de Moura Aguiar
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Mariane Cariati Tirapelle
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renata Nacasaki Silvestre
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlia Teixeira Cottas de Azevedo
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Virginia Picanço-Castro
- Regional Blood Center of the School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Lampros EA, Kremer PG, Aguilar Díaz de León JS, Roberts ET, Rodriguez Benavente MC, Amster IJ, Barb AW. The antibody-binding Fc gamma receptor IIIa / CD16a is N-glycosylated with high occupancy at all five sites. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 3:128-135. [PMID: 35712026 PMCID: PMC9193405 DOI: 10.1016/j.crimmu.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The antibody-binding Fc γ receptors (FcγRs) trigger life-saving immune responses and many therapeutic monoclonal antibodies require FcγR engagement for full effect. One proven strategy to improve the efficacy of antibody therapies is to increase receptor binding affinity, in particular binding to FcγRIIIa/CD16a. Currently, affinities are measured using recombinantly-expressed soluble extracellular FcγR domains and CD16a-mediated antibody-dependent immune responses are characterized using cultured cells. It is notable that CD16a is highly processed with multiple N-glycosylation sites, and preventing individual N-glycan modifications affects affinity. Furthermore, multiple groups have demonstrated that CD16a N-glycan composition is variable and composition impacts antibody binding affinity. The level of N-glycosylation at each site is not known though computational prediction indicates low to moderate potential at each site based on primary sequence (40-70%). Here we quantify occupancy of the extracellular domains using complementary mass spectrometry-based methods. All five sites of the tighter-binding CD16a V158 allotype showed 65-100% N-glycan occupancy in proteomics-based experiments. These observations were confirmed using intact protein mass spectrometry that demonstrated the predominant species corresponded to CD16a V158 with five N-glycans, with a smaller contribution from CD16a with four N-glycans. Occupancy was likewise high for the membrane-bound receptor at all detected N-glycosylation sites using CD16a purified from cultured human natural killer cells. Occupancy of the N162 site, critical for antibody binding, appeared independent of N169 occupancy based on analysis of the T171A mutant protein. The weaker-binding CD16a F158 allotype showed higher occupancy of >93% at each site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Lampros
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Paul G. Kremer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - I. Jonathan Amster
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Adam W. Barb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Corresponding author. 20 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30605, USA.
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Hintz HM, Snyder KM, Wu J, Hullsiek R, Dahlvang JD, Hart GT, Walcheck B, LeBeau AM. Simultaneous Engagement of Tumor and Stroma Targeting Antibodies by Engineered NK-92 Cells Expressing CD64 Controls Prostate Cancer Growth. Cancer Immunol Res 2021; 9:1270-1282. [PMID: 34452926 PMCID: PMC9119026 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) has been largely resistant to immunotherapy. Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes that detect and kill transformed cells without prior sensitization, and their infiltration into prostate tumors corresponds with an increased overall survival among patients with mCRPC. We sought to harness this knowledge to develop an approach to NK-cell based immunotherapy for mCRPC. We engineered an NK cell line (NK-92MI) to express CD64, the sole human high-affinity IgG Fcγ receptor (FcγR1), and bound these cells with antibodies to provide interchangeable tumor-targeting elements. NK-92MICD64 cells were evaluated for cell-activation mechanisms and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). A combination of mAbs was used to target the prostate tumor antigen tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2 (TROP2) and the cancer-associated fibroblast marker fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP). We found that CD64, which is normally expressed by myeloid cells and associates with the adaptor molecule FcRγ, can be expressed by NK-92MI cells and mediate ADCC through an association with CD3ζ. Cytotoxicity from the combination approach was two-fold higher compared to treatment with NK-92MICD64 cells and either mAb alone, and seven-fold higher than NK-92MICD64 cells alone at an effector-target cell ratio of 20:1. The cytotoxic effect was lost when using isotype control antibodies, indicating a selective targeting mechanism. The combination approach demonstrated efficacy in vivo as well and significantly reduced tumor growth compared with the saline control. This combination therapy presents a potential approach for treating mCRPC and could improve immunotherapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallie M Hintz
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Kristin M Snyder
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | - Jianming Wu
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | - Robert Hullsiek
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | - James D Dahlvang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Geoffrey T Hart
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Bruce Walcheck
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Aaron M LeBeau
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Leem G, Cheon S, Lee H, Choi SJ, Jeong S, Kim ES, Jeong HW, Jeong H, Park SH, Kim YS, Shin EC. Abnormality in the NK-cell population is prolonged in severe COVID-19 patients. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 148:996-1006.e18. [PMID: 34339730 PMCID: PMC8324384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our understanding of adaptive immune responses in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly evolving, but information on the innate immune responses by natural killer (NK) cells is still insufficient. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the phenotypic and functional status of NK cells and their changes during the course of mild and severe COVID-19. METHODS We performed RNA sequencing and flow cytometric analysis of NK cells from patients with mild and severe COVID-19 at multiple time points in the course of the disease using cryopreserved PBMCs. RESULTS In RNA-sequencing analysis, the NK cells exhibited distinctive features compared with healthy donors, with significant enrichment of proinflammatory cytokine-mediated signaling pathways. Intriguingly, we found that the unconventional CD56dimCD16neg NK-cell population expanded in cryopreserved PBMCs from patients with COVID-19 regardless of disease severity, accompanied by decreased NK-cell cytotoxicity. The NK-cell population was rapidly normalized alongside the disappearance of unconventional CD56dimCD16neg NK cells and the recovery of NK-cell cytotoxicity in patients with mild COVID-19, but this occurred slowly in patients with severe COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The current longitudinal study provides a deep understanding of the NK-cell biology in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galam Leem
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shinhye Cheon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hoyoung Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seong Jin Choi
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seongju Jeong
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Eui-Soon Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hye Won Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Hyeongseok Jeong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Su-Hyung Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Yeon-Sook Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Eui-Cheol Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea.
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Bi-specific and Tri-specific NK Cell Engagers: The New Avenue of Targeted NK Cell Immunotherapy. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:577-592. [PMID: 34327614 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00550-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy has grown significantly over the past two decades. More recently, multi-specific engagers have been developed as cancer therapeutics to effectively arm endogenous NK cells to more potently induce specific cytolytic responses against tumor targets. This review explores the bi- and tri-specific NK/tumor engagers that are emerging as a new generation of immunotherapeutics. These molecules vary in configuration, but they typically have small molecular weights and domains that engage specific tumor antigens and NK cell-activating receptors such as CD16, NKp30, NKp46, and NKG2D. They have demonstrated compelling potential in boosting NK cell cytotoxicity against specific tumor targets. This highly adaptable off-the-shelf platform, which in some formats also integrates cytokines, is poised to revolutionize targeted NK cell immunotherapy, either as a monotherapy or in combination with other effective anti-cancer therapies.
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Ahluwalia P, Ahluwalia M, Mondal AK, Sahajpal NS, Kota V, Rojiani MV, Kolhe R. Natural Killer Cells and Dendritic Cells: Expanding Clinical Relevance in the Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164037. [PMID: 34439191 PMCID: PMC8394984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a major subtype of lung cancer that accounts for almost 85% of lung cancer cases worldwide. Although recent advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy have helped in the clinical management of these patients, the survival rate in advanced stages remains dismal. Furthermore, there is a critical lack of accurate prognostic and stratification markers for emerging immunotherapies. To harness immune response modalities for therapeutic benefits, a detailed understanding of the immune cells in the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) is required. Among the diverse immune cells, natural killer (NK cells) and dendritic cells (DCs) have generated tremendous interest in the scientific community. NK cells play a critical role in tumor immunosurveillance by directly killing malignant cells. DCs link innate and adaptive immune systems by cross-presenting the antigens to T cells. The presence of an immunosuppressive milieu in tumors can lead to inactivation and poor functioning of NK cells and DCs, which results in an adverse outcome for many cancer patients, including those with NSCLC. Recently, clinical intervention using modified NK cells and DCs have shown encouraging response in advanced NSCLC patients. Herein, we will discuss prognostic and predictive aspects of NK cells and DC cells with an emphasis on NSCLC. Additionally, the discussion will extend to potential strategies that seek to enhance the anti-tumor functionality of NK cells and DCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Ahluwalia
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Meenakshi Ahluwalia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Ashis K. Mondal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Nikhil S. Sahajpal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
| | - Vamsi Kota
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA;
| | - Mumtaz V. Rojiani
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Ravindra Kolhe
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (P.A.); (A.K.M.); (N.S.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-706-721-2771; Fax: +1-706-434-6053
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Mishra HK, Dixon KJ, Pore N, Felices M, Miller JS, Walcheck B. Activation of ADAM17 by IL-15 Limits Human NK Cell Proliferation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:711621. [PMID: 34367174 PMCID: PMC8339566 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.711621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate cytotoxic lymphocytes that can recognize assorted determinants on tumor cells and rapidly kill these cells. Due to their anti-tumor effector functions and potential for allogeneic use, various NK cell platforms are being examined for adoptive cell therapies. However, their limited in vivo persistence is a current challenge. Cytokine-mediated activation of these cells is under extensive investigation and interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a particular focus since it drives their activation and proliferation. IL-15 efficacy though is limited in part by its induction of regulatory checkpoints. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase-17 (ADAM17) is broadly expressed by leukocytes, including NK cells, and it plays a central role in cleaving cell surface receptors, a process that regulates cell activation and cell-cell interactions. We report that ADAM17 blockade with a monoclonal antibody markedly increased human NK cell proliferation by IL-15 both in vitro and in a xenograft mouse model. Blocking ADAM17 resulted in a significant increase in surface levels of the homing receptor CD62L on proliferating NK cells. We show that NK cell proliferation in vivo by IL-15 and the augmentation of this process upon blocking ADAM17 are dependent on CD62L. Hence, our findings reveal for the first time that ADAM17 activation in NK cells by IL-15 limits their proliferation, presumably functioning as a feedback system, and that its substrate CD62L has a key role in this process in vivo. ADAM17 blockade in combination with IL-15 may provide a new approach to improve NK cell persistence and function in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant K Mishra
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Kate J Dixon
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Nabendu Pore
- Early Oncology Clinical Science, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Martin Felices
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Bruce Walcheck
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
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NKG2D Natural Killer Cell Receptor-A Short Description and Potential Clinical Applications. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061420. [PMID: 34200375 PMCID: PMC8229527 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are natural cytotoxic, effector cells of the innate immune system. They can recognize transformed or infected cells. NK cells are armed with a set of activating and inhibitory receptors which are able to bind to their ligands on target cells. The right balance between expression and activation of those receptors is fundamental for the proper functionality of NK cells. One of the best known activating receptors is NKG2D, a member of the CD94/NKG2 family. Due to a specific NKG2D binding with its eight different ligands, which are overexpressed in transformed, infected and stressed cells, NK cells are able to recognize and attack their targets. The NKG2D receptor has an enormous significance in various, autoimmune diseases, viral and bacterial infections as well as for transplantation outcomes and complications. This review focuses on the NKG2D receptor, the mechanism of its action, clinical relevance of its gene polymorphisms and a potential application in various clinical settings.
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Capuano C, Pighi C, Battella S, De Federicis D, Galandrini R, Palmieri G. Harnessing CD16-Mediated NK Cell Functions to Enhance Therapeutic Efficacy of Tumor-Targeting mAbs. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102500. [PMID: 34065399 PMCID: PMC8161310 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Natural Killer (NK) cells play a major role in cancer immunotherapy based on tumor-targeting mAbs. NK cell-mediated tumor cell killing and cytokine secretion are powerfully stimulated upon interaction with IgG-opsonized tumor cells, through the aggregation of FcγRIIIA/CD16 IgG receptor. Advances in basic and translational NK cell biology have led to the development of strategies that, by improving mAb-dependent antitumor responses, may overcome the current limitations of antibody therapy attributable to tolerance, immunosuppressive microenvironment, and genotypic factors. This review provides an overview of the immunotherapeutic strategies being pursued to improve the efficacy of mAb-induced NK antitumor activity. The exploitation of antibody combinations, antibody-based molecules, used alone or combined with adoptive NK cell therapy, will be uncovered. Within the landscape of NK cell heterogeneity, we stress the role of memory NK cells as promising effectors in the next generation of immunotherapy with the aim to obtain long-lasting tumor control. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells hold a pivotal role in tumor-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based activity due to the expression of CD16, the low-affinity receptor for IgG. Indeed, beyond exerting cytotoxic function, activated NK cells also produce an array of cytokines and chemokines, through which they interface with and potentiate adaptive immune responses. Thus, CD16-activated NK cells can concur to mAb-dependent “vaccinal effect”, i.e., the development of antigen-specific responses, which may be highly relevant in maintaining long-term protection of treated patients. On this basis, the review will focus on strategies aimed at potentiating NK cell-mediated antitumor functions in tumor-targeting mAb-based regimens, represented by (a) mAb manipulation strategies, aimed at augmenting recruitment and efficacy of NK cells, such as Fc-engineering, and the design of bi- or trispecific NK cell engagers and (b) the possible exploitation of memory NK cells, whose distinctive characteristics (enhanced responsiveness to CD16 engagement, longevity, and intrinsic resistance to the immunosuppressive microenvironment) may maximize therapeutic mAb antitumor efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Capuano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
| | - Chiara Pighi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
| | - Simone Battella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
- ReiThera Srl, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide De Federicis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ricciarda Galandrini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
- Correspondence: (R.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriella Palmieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (C.P.); (S.B.); (D.D.F.)
- Correspondence: (R.G.); (G.P.)
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Waller V, Pruschy M. Combined Radiochemotherapy: Metalloproteinases Revisited. Front Oncol 2021; 11:676583. [PMID: 34055644 PMCID: PMC8155607 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.676583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides cytotoxic DNA damage irradiation of tumor cells triggers multiple intra- and intercellular signaling processes, that are part of a multilayered, treatment-induced stress response at the unicellular and tumor pathophysiological level. These processes are intertwined with intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms to the toxic effects of ionizing radiation and thereby co-determine the tumor response to radiotherapy. Proteolysis of structural elements and bioactive signaling moieties represents a major class of posttranslational modifications regulating intra- and intercellular communication. Plasma membrane-located and secreted metalloproteinases comprise a family of metal-, usually zinc-, dependent endopeptidases and sheddases with a broad variety of substrates including components of the extracellular matrix, cyto- and chemokines, growth and pro-angiogenic factors. Thereby, metalloproteinases play an important role in matrix remodeling and auto- and paracrine intercellular communication regulating tumor growth, angiogenesis, immune cell infiltration, tumor cell dissemination, and subsequently the response to cancer treatment. While metalloproteinases have long been identified as promising target structures for anti-cancer agents, previous pharmaceutical approaches mostly failed due to unwanted side effects related to the structural similarities among the multiple family members. Nevertheless, targeting of metalloproteinases still represents an interesting rationale alone and in combination with other treatment modalities. Here, we will give an overview on the role of metalloproteinases in the irradiated tumor microenvironment and discuss the therapeutic potential of using more specific metalloproteinase inhibitors in combination with radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Waller
- Laboratory for Applied Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Pruschy
- Laboratory for Applied Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Karampatzakis A, Brož P, Rey C, Önfelt B, Cruz De Matos GDS, Rycroft D, Ambrose A, Davis DM. Antibody Afucosylation Augments CD16-Mediated Serial Killing and IFNγ Secretion by Human Natural Killer Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:641521. [PMID: 33796107 PMCID: PMC8008054 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.641521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
One mechanism by which monoclonal antibodies (mAb) help treat cancer or autoimmune disease is through triggering antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) via CD16 on Natural Killer (NK) cells. Afucosylation is known to increase the affinity of mAbs for CD16 on NK cells and here, we set out to assess how mAb afucosylation affects the dynamics of NK cell interactions, receptor expression and effector functions. An IgG1 version of a clinically important anti-CD20 mAb was compared to its afucosylated counterpart (anti-CD20-AF). Opsonization of CD20-expressing target cells, 721.221 or Daudi, with anti-CD20-AF increased NK cell cytotoxicity and IFNγ secretion, compared to anti-CD20. The afucosylated mAb also caused a more rapid and greater loss of CD16 from NK cell surfaces. Loss of CD16 has recently been shown to be important for NK cell detachment and sequential engagement of multiple target cells. Here, live-cell time-lapse microscopy of individual cell-cell interactions in an aqueous environment and a three-dimensional matrix, revealed that anti-CD20-AF induced more rapid killing of opsonized target cells. In addition, NK cells detached more quickly from target cells opsonized with anti-CD20-AF compared to anti-CD20, which increased engagement of multiple targets and enabled a greater proportion of NK cells to perform serial killing. Inhibition of CD16 shedding with TAPI-0 led to reduced detachment and serial killing. Thus, disassembly of the immune synapse caused by loss of cell surface CD16 is a factor determining the efficiency of ADCC and antibody afucosylation alters the dynamics of intercellular interactions to boost serial killing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Karampatzakis
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Petr Brož
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Camille Rey
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Björn Önfelt
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan (KTH) - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Ashley Ambrose
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel M Davis
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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47
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Gauthier M, Laroye C, Bensoussan D, Boura C, Decot V. Natural Killer cells and monoclonal antibodies: Two partners for successful antibody dependent cytotoxicity against tumor cells. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103261. [PMID: 33607229 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies targeting tumors are one of the most important discoveries in the field of cancer. Although several effective antibodies have been developed, a relapse may occur. One of their mechanisms of action is Antibody Dependent Cell Cytotoxicity (ADCC), by engaging the Fc γ receptor CD16 expressing Natural Killer cells, innate lymphoid cells involved in cancer immunosurveillance and able to kill tumor cells. A lack of NK cells observed in many cancers may therefore be a cause of the low efficacy of antibodies observed in some clinical situations. Here we review clear evidences of the essential partnership between NK cells and antibodies showed in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical trials in different indications, describe the hurdles and ways to enhance ADCC and the evolution of monoclonal antibody therapy. NK cell adoptive immunotherapy combined with monoclonal antibodies may overcome the resistance to the treatment and enhance their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Gauthier
- Lorraine University, CNRS UMR 7365, Team 6, Campus Santé, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France; CHRU Nancy, Cell Therapy and Tissue Bank Unit, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Caroline Laroye
- Lorraine University, CNRS UMR 7365, Team 6, Campus Santé, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France; CHRU Nancy, Cell Therapy and Tissue Bank Unit, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Danièle Bensoussan
- Lorraine University, CNRS UMR 7365, Team 6, Campus Santé, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France; CHRU Nancy, Cell Therapy and Tissue Bank Unit, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Cédric Boura
- Lorraine University, CNRS UMR7039, Team BioSIS, Campus Santé, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
| | - Véronique Decot
- Lorraine University, CNRS UMR 7365, Team 6, Campus Santé, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France; CHRU Nancy, Cell Therapy and Tissue Bank Unit, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France.
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Dixon KJ, Wu J, Walcheck B. Engineering Anti-Tumor Monoclonal Antibodies and Fc Receptors to Enhance ADCC by Human NK Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:312. [PMID: 33467027 PMCID: PMC7829765 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-targeting monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are the most widely used and characterized immunotherapy for hematologic and solid tumors. The significance of this therapy is their direct and indirect effects on tumor cells, facilitated by the antibody's antigen-binding fragment (Fab) and fragment crystallizable region (Fc region), respectively. The Fab can modulate the function of cell surface markers on tumor cells in an agonistic or antagonistic manner, whereas the Fc region can be recognized by an Fc receptor (FcR) on leukocytes through which various effector functions, including antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), can be elicited. This process is a key cytolytic mechanism of natural killer (NK) cells. These innate lymphocytes in the human body recognize tumor-bound antibodies exclusively by the IgG Fc receptor CD16A (FcγRIIIA). Two allelic versions of CD16A bind IgG with either lower or higher affinity. Cancer patients homozygous for the higher affinity allele of CD16A have been reported to respond significantly better to mAb therapies for various malignancies. These studies revealed that mAb therapy efficacy positively correlates with higher affinity binding to CD16A. Approaches to enhance tumor antigen targeting by NK cells by modifying the Fc portion of antibodies or the FcR on NK cells are the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bruce Walcheck
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA; (K.J.D.); (J.W.)
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Cantoni C, Wurzer H, Thomas C, Vitale M. Escape of tumor cells from the NK cell cytotoxic activity. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:1339-1360. [PMID: 32930468 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2mr0820-652r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, NK cells, initially identified as potent cytotoxic effector cells, have revealed an unexpected complexity, both at phenotypic and functional levels. The discovery of different NK cell subsets, characterized by distinct gene expression and phenotypes, was combined with the characterization of the diverse functions NK cells can exert, not only as circulating cells, but also as cells localized or recruited in lymphoid organs and in multiple tissues. Besides the elimination of tumor and virus-infected cells, these functions include the production of cytokines and chemokines, the regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells, the influence on tissue homeostasis. In addition, NK cells display a remarkable functional plasticity, being able to adapt to the environment and to develop a kind of memory. Nevertheless, the powerful cytotoxic activity of NK cells remains one of their most relevant properties, particularly in the antitumor response. In this review, the process of tumor cell recognition and killing mediated by NK cells, starting from the generation of cytolytic granules and recognition of target cell, to the establishment of the NK cell immunological synapse, the release of cytotoxic molecules, and consequent tumor cell death is described. Next, the review focuses on the heterogeneous mechanisms, either intrinsic to tumors or induced by the tumor microenvironment, by which cancer cells can escape the NK cell-mediated attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Hannah Wurzer
- Cytoskeleton and Cancer Progression, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Clément Thomas
- Cytoskeleton and Cancer Progression, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Immunologia, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Genoa, Italy
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Woan KV, Miller JS. Harnessing Natural Killer Cell Antitumor Immunity: From the Bench to Bedside. Cancer Immunol Res 2020; 7:1742-1747. [PMID: 31676567 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-19-0404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical effector lymphocytes mediating tumor immune surveillance and clearance. They do so by direct tumor killing using cytolytic granules and death receptors, and by interfacing with and potentiating adaptive immune responses through the production of cytokines. From a therapeutic perspective, NK cells have been shown to exert graft-versus-leukemia activity in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are important in the clinical efficacy of antibodies. Advances in basic and translational NK cell biology have led to multiple potential strategies to augment their in vivo activity to improve antitumor responses. Despite their potent effects, NK cells have been shown to be safe for adoptive cell therapy in both the autologous and allogeneic settings, with promising, but so far limited, clinical efficacy. This review will provide an overview of strategies being pursued to improve NK cell activity and efficacy, focusing on cell source, NK cell activation, and in vivo persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karrune V Woan
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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