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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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2
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Hall G. Interleukin-15 in kidney disease and therapeutics. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2024; 33:174-180. [PMID: 38164877 PMCID: PMC10893218 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000964] [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] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Interleukin 15 (IL-15) is a member of the IL-2 family of common gamma chain receptor cytokines with well described anti-inflammatory, pro-survival and pro-proliferative signaling properties. The cytoprotective role of IL-15 in the kidney is now coming into focus with recent reports of its beneficial actions in various forms of kidney disease. This review will summarize what is currently known about IL-15 signaling in the kidney and highlight recent evidence of its beneficial effects on kidney physiology. RECENT FINDINGS IL-15 and its heterotrimeric receptor are expressed throughout the kidney. Like all IL-2 family cytokines, IL-15 can activate signaling through the Janus Kinase (JAK)/Signal transducer of activated T-cells (STAT), phosphoinositol-3 kinase (PI-3K)/AKT and mitogen activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways and recent evidence suggests that STAT5B is an essential transcriptional mediator of prosurvival signaling in glomerular visceral epithelial cells (i.e. podocytes). IL-15 has also been shown to suppress pro-apoptotic signaling in models of acute kidney injury and pro-fibrotic signaling in models of chronic kidney disease. SUMMARY The cytoprotective properties of IL-15 suggest that it may have potential as a nonimmunosuppresive therapeutic for kidney disease. A novel class of IL-15 immunotherapies has emerged for the treatment cancer and some have demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials. These well tolerated IL-15 agonists could possibly be repurposed for the treatment of kidney disease and warrant further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gentzon Hall
- Division of Nephrology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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3
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Trinh T, Adams WA, Calescibetta A, Tu N, Dalton R, So T, Wei M, Ward G, Kostenko E, Christiansen S, Cen L, McLemore A, Reed K, Whitting J, Gilvary D, Blanco NL, Segura CM, Nguyen J, Kandell W, Chen X, Cheng P, Wright GM, Cress WD, Liu J, Wright KL, Wei S, Eksioglu EA. CX3CR1 deficiency-induced TIL tumor restriction as a novel addition for CAR-T design in solid malignancies. iScience 2023; 26:106443. [PMID: 37070068 PMCID: PMC10105289 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in the understanding of the tumor microenvironment have led to development of immunotherapeutic strategies, such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-Ts). However, despite success in blood malignancies, CAR-T therapies in solid tumors have been hampered by their restricted infiltration. Here, we used our understanding of early cytotoxic lymphocyte infiltration of human lymphocytes in solid tumors in vivo to investigate the receptors in normal, adjacent, and tumor tissues of primary non-small-cell lung cancer specimens. We found that CX3CL1-CX3CR1 reduction restricts cytotoxic cells from the solid-tumor bed, contributing to tumor escape. Based on this, we designed a CAR-T construct using the well-established natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) CAR-T expression together with overexpression of CX3CR1 to promote their infiltration. These CAR-Ts infiltrate tumors at higher rates than control-activated T cells or IL-15-overexpressing NKG2D CAR-Ts. This construct also had similar functionality in a liver-cancer model, demonstrating potential efficacy in other solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- ThuLe Trinh
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - William A. Adams
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Alexandra Calescibetta
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Nhan Tu
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Robert Dalton
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Tina So
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Max Wei
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Grace Ward
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Elena Kostenko
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sean Christiansen
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ling Cen
- Bioinformatics Core, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amy McLemore
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kayla Reed
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Junmin Whitting
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Danielle Gilvary
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Neale Lopez Blanco
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Carlos Moran Segura
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jonathan Nguyen
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Wendy Kandell
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Xianghong Chen
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Pingyan Cheng
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Gabriela M. Wright
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - W. Douglas Cress
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jinghong Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kenneth L. Wright
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sheng Wei
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Erika A. Eksioglu
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
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Andreescu M, Berbec N, Tanase AD. Assessment of Impact of Human Leukocyte Antigen-Type and Cytokine-Type Responses on Outcomes after Targeted Therapy Currently Used to Treat Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12072731. [PMID: 37048814 PMCID: PMC10094967 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12072731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor growth and metastasis are reliant on intricate interactions between the host immune system and various counter-regulatory immune escape mechanisms employed by the tumor. Tumors can resist immune surveillance by modifying the expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules, which results in the impaired presentation of tumor-associated antigens, subsequently evading detection and destruction by the immune system. The management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is based on symptom severity and includes various types of targeted therapies, including rituximab, obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, zanubrutinib, idelalisib, and venetoclax. These therapies rely on the recognition of specific peptides presented by HLAs on the surface of tumor cells by T cells, leading to an immune response. HLA class I molecules are found in most human cell types and interact with T-cell receptors (TCRs) to activate T cells, which play a vital role in inducing adaptive immune responses. However, tumor cells may evade T-cell attack by downregulating HLA expression, limiting the efficacy of HLA-dependent immunotherapy. The prognosis of CLL largely depends on the presence or absence of genetic abnormalities, such as del(17p), TP53 point mutations, and IGHV somatic hypermutation status. These oral targeted therapies alone or in combination with anti-CD20 antibodies have replaced chemoimmunotherapy as the primary treatment for CLL. In this review, we summarize the current clinical evidence on the impact of HLA- and cytokine-type responses on outcomes after targeted therapies currently used to treat CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Andreescu
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Berbec
- Department of Hematology, Coltea Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Daniela Tanase
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Fundeni Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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Cytokine chemokine network in tumor microenvironment: Impact on CSC properties and therapeutic applications. Cytokine 2022; 156:155916. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.155916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Xue D, Hsu E, Fu YX, Peng H. Next-generation cytokines for cancer immunotherapy. Antib Ther 2021; 4:123-133. [PMID: 34263141 PMCID: PMC8271143 DOI: 10.1093/abt/tbab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Most studies focus on the first and second signals of T cell activation. However, the roles of cytokines in immunotherapy are not fully understood, and cytokines have not been widely used in patient care. Clinical application of cytokines is limited due to their short half-life in vivo, severe toxicity at therapeutic doses, and overall lack of efficacy. Several modifications have been engineered to extend their half-life and increase tumor targeting, including polyethylene glycol conjugation, fusion to tumor-targeting antibodies, and alteration of cytokine/cell receptor-binding affinity. These modifications demonstrate an improvement in either increased antitumor efficacy or reduced toxicity. However, these cytokine engineering strategies may still be improved further, as each strategy poses advantages and disadvantages in the delicate balance of targeting tumor cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and peripheral immune cells. This review focuses on selected cytokines, including interferon-α, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-15, IL-21, and IL-12, in both preclinical studies and clinical applications. We review next-generation designs of these cytokines that improve half-life, tumor targeting, and antitumor efficacy. We also present our perspectives on the development of new strategies to potentiate cytokine-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diyuan Xue
- Key laboratory of Infection and Immunity Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Da Tun Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Eric Hsu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Yang-Xin Fu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Hua Peng
- Key laboratory of Infection and Immunity Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Da Tun Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
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Islam R, Pupovac A, Evtimov V, Boyd N, Shu R, Boyd R, Trounson A. Enhancing a Natural Killer: Modification of NK Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051058. [PMID: 33946954 PMCID: PMC8146003 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are potent innate immune system effector lymphocytes armed with multiple mechanisms for killing cancer cells. Given the dynamic roles of NK cells in tumor surveillance, they are fast becoming a next-generation tool for adoptive immunotherapy. Many strategies are being employed to increase their number and improve their ability to overcome cancer resistance and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These include the use of cytokines and synthetic compounds to bolster propagation and killing capacity, targeting immune-function checkpoints, addition of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to provide cancer specificity and genetic ablation of inhibitory molecules. The next generation of NK cell products will ideally be readily available as an “off-the-shelf” product and stem cell derived to enable potentially unlimited supply. However, several considerations regarding NK cell source, genetic modification and scale up first need addressing. Understanding NK cell biology and interaction within specific tumor contexts will help identify necessary NK cell modifications and relevant choice of NK cell source. Further enhancement of manufacturing processes will allow for off-the-shelf NK cell immunotherapies to become key components of multifaceted therapeutic strategies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasa Islam
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Aleta Pupovac
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Vera Evtimov
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Nicholas Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Runzhe Shu
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Richard Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Alan Trounson
- Cartherics Pty Ltd., Clayton 3168, Australia; (R.I.); (A.P.); (V.E.); (N.B.); (R.S.); (R.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
- Correspondence:
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8
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Dubois SP, Miljkovic MD, Fleisher TA, Pittaluga S, Hsu-Albert J, Bryant BR, Petrus MN, Perera LP, Müller JR, Shih JH, Waldmann TA, Conlon KC. Short-course IL-15 given as a continuous infusion led to a massive expansion of effective NK cells: implications for combination therapy with antitumor antibodies. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e002193. [PMID: 33883258 PMCID: PMC8061813 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-002193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Full application of cytokines as oncoimmunotherapeutics requires identification of optimal regimens. Our initial effort with intravenous bolus recombinant human interleukin-15 (rhIL-15) was limited by postinfusional reactions. Subcutaneous injection and continuous intravenous infusion for 10 days (CIV-10) provided rhIL-15 with less toxicity with CIV-10 giving the best increases in CD8+ lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells. To ease rhIL-15 administration, we shortened time of infusion. Treatment with rhIL-15 at a dose of 3-5 µg/kg as a 5-day continuous intravenous infusion (CIV-5) had no dose-limiting toxicities while effector cell stimulation was comparable to the CIV-10 regimen. METHODS Eleven patients with metastatic cancers were treated with rhIL-15 CIV-5, 3 µg (n=4), 4 µg (n=3), and 5 µg/kg/day (n=4) in a phase I dose-escalation study (April 6, 2012). RESULTS Impressive expansions of NK cells were seen at all dose levels (mean 34-fold), including CD56bright NK cells (mean 144-fold for 4 µg/kg), as well as an increase in CD8+ T cells (mean 3.38-fold). At 5 µg/kg/day, there were no dose-limiting toxicities but pulmonary capillary leak and slower patient recovery. This led to our choice of the 4 µg/kg as CIV-5 dose for further testing. Cytolytic capacity of CD56bright and CD56dim NK cells was increased by interleukin-15 assayed by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), natural cytotoxicity and natural killer group 2D-mediated cytotoxicity. The best response was stable disease. CONCLUSIONS IL-15 administered as CIV-5 substantially expanded NK cells with increased cytotoxic functions. Tumor-targeting monoclonal antibodies dependent on ADCC as their mechanism of action including alemtuzumab, obinutuzumab, avelumab, and mogamulizumab could benefit from those NK cell expansions and provide a promising therapeutic strategy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS NCT01572493, NCT03759184, NCT03905135, NCT04185220 and NCT02689453.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid P Dubois
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Milos D Miljkovic
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas A Fleisher
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Stefania Pittaluga
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer Hsu-Albert
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Bonita R Bryant
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael N Petrus
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Liyanage P Perera
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jürgen R Müller
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Joanna H Shih
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kevin C Conlon
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Heterodimeric IL-15 in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040837. [PMID: 33671252 PMCID: PMC7922495 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040837] [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: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The rapidly expanding field of cancer immunotherapy uses diverse technologies, including cytokines, T cells, and antibody administration, with the aim to induce effective immune responses leading to tumor control. Interleukin-15 (IL-15), a cytokine discovered in 1994, supports the homeostasis of cytotoxic immune cells and shows promise as an anti-tumor agent. Many studies have elucidated IL-15 synthesis, regulation and biological function and explored its therapeutic efficacy in preclinical cancer models. Escherichia coli-derived single-chain IL-15 was tested in the first in-human trial in cancer patients. Its effects were limited by the biology of IL-15, which in vivo comprises a complex of the IL-15 chain with the IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα) chain, together forming the IL-15 heterodimer (hetIL-15). Currently, single-chain IL-15 and several heterodimeric IL-15:IL-15Rα variants (hetIL-15, N-803 and RLI) are being tested in clinical trials. This review presents a summary of contemporary preclinical and clinical research on IL-15. Abstract Immunotherapy has emerged as a valuable strategy for the treatment of many cancer types. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) promotes the growth and function of cytotoxic CD8+ T and natural killer (NK) cells. It also enhances leukocyte trafficking and stimulates tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes expansion and activity. Bioactive IL-15 is produced in the body as a heterodimeric cytokine, comprising the IL-15 and the so-called IL-15 receptor alpha chain that are together termed “heterodimeric IL-15” (hetIL-15). hetIL-15, closely resembling the natural form of the cytokine produced in vivo, and IL-15:IL-15Rα complex variants, such as hetIL-15Fc, N-803 and RLI, are the currently available IL-15 agents. These molecules have showed favorable pharmacokinetics and biological function in vivo in comparison to single-chain recombinant IL-15. Preclinical animal studies have supported their anti-tumor activity, suggesting IL-15 as a general method to convert “cold” tumors into “hot”, by promoting tumor lymphocyte infiltration. In clinical trials, IL-15-based therapies are overall well-tolerated and result in the expansion and activation of NK and memory CD8+ T cells. Combinations with other immunotherapies are being investigated to improve the anti-tumor efficacy of IL-15 agents in the clinic.
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Zhang S, Zhao J, Bai X, Handley M, Shan F. Biological effects of IL-15 on immune cells and its potential for the treatment of cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 91:107318. [PMID: 33383444 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) has recently emerged as a novel immunomodulatory cytokine in cancer immunotherapy. IL-15 has the potential to reject and destroy cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment by expanding and activating natural killer (NK), natural killer T (NKT), and memory (m) CD8+T cells. Due to the feasible outcomes obtained from preclinical studies and phase 1/2 clinical trials, IL-15-based therapy, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell or CAR NK cell infusion following in vitro expansion in the presence of IL-15, used in combination with checkpoint inhibitors and other therapy may extend to clinical practice in the future. It is also important to understand the biological characteristics of IL-15 to ensure the maximal benefit of therapeutic strategies. Here, we summarize the current development of IL-15 in the following areas: anti-tumor mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, advances in IL-15-based therapy itself or in combination with other methods, including biological agents, monoclonal antibodies, and adoptive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianzhu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Mike Handley
- Cytocm lnc, 3001 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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Prospects for NK Cell Therapy of Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123719. [PMID: 33322371 PMCID: PMC7763692 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sarcomas are a group of aggressive tumors originating from mesenchymal tissues. Patients with advanced disease have poor prognosis due to the ineffectiveness of current treatment protocols. A subset of lymphocytes called natural killer (NK) cells is capable of effective surveillance and clearance of sarcomas, constituting a promising tool for immunotherapeutic treatment. However, sarcomas can cause impairment in NK cell function, associated with enhanced tumor growth and dissemination. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of sarcoma-mediated suppression of NK cells and their implications for the design of novel NK cell-based immunotherapies against sarcoma. Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells with potent antitumor activity. One of the most NK cell cytotoxicity-sensitive tumor types is sarcoma, an aggressive mesenchyme-derived neoplasm. While a combination of radical surgery and radio- and chemotherapy can successfully control local disease, patients with advanced sarcomas remain refractory to current treatment regimens, calling for novel therapeutic strategies. There is accumulating evidence for NK cell-mediated immunosurveillance of sarcoma cells during all stages of the disease, highlighting the potential of using NK cells as a therapeutic tool. However, sarcomas display multiple immunoevasion mechanisms that can suppress NK cell function leading to an uncontrolled tumor outgrowth. Here, we review the current evidence for NK cells’ role in immune surveillance of sarcoma during disease initiation, promotion, progression, and metastasis, as well as the molecular mechanisms behind sarcoma-mediated NK cell suppression. Further, we apply this basic understanding of NK–sarcoma crosstalk in order to identify and summarize the most promising candidates for NK cell-based sarcoma immunotherapy.
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12
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Waldmann TA, Miljkovic MD, Conlon KC. Interleukin-15 (dys)regulation of lymphoid homeostasis: Implications for therapy of autoimmunity and cancer. J Exp Med 2020; 217:132622. [PMID: 31821442 PMCID: PMC7037239 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20191062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-15 supports NK, NK-T, γδ, ILC1, and memory CD8 T cell function, and dysregulated IL-15 is associated with many autoimmune diseases. Striking IL-15–driven increases in NK and CD8 T cells in patients highlight the potential for combination therapy of cancers. IL-15, a pleiotropic cytokine, stimulates generation of NK, NK-T, γδ, ILC1, and memory CD8 T cells. IL-15 disorders play pathogenetic roles in organ-specific autoimmune diseases including celiac disease. Diverse approaches are developed to block IL-15 action. IL-15 administered to patients with malignancy yielded dramatic increases in NK numbers and modest increases in CD8 T cells. Due to immunological checkpoints, to achieve major cancer therapeutic efficacy, IL-15 will be used in combination therapy, and combination trials with checkpoint inhibitors, with anti-CD40 to yield tumor-specific CD8 T cells, and with anticancer monoclonal antibodies to increase ADCC and antitumor efficacy, have been initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Milos D Miljkovic
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Kevin C Conlon
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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13
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Wang J, Matosevic S. Functional and metabolic targeting of natural killer cells to solid tumors. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2020; 43:577-600. [DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00523-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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14
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Earl PL, Americo JL, Moss B. Natural killer cells expanded in vivo or ex vivo with IL-15 overcomes the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to lethal infection with orthopoxviruses. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008505. [PMID: 32320436 PMCID: PMC7197867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The wild-derived inbred CAST/EiJ mouse, one of eight founder strains in the Collaborative Cross panel, is an exceptional model for studying monkeypox virus (MPXV), an emerging human pathogen, and other orthopoxviruses including vaccinia virus (VACV). Previous studies suggested that the extreme susceptibility of the CAST mouse to orthopoxviruses is due to an insufficient innate immune response. Here, we focused on the low number of natural killer (NK) cells in the naïve CAST mouse as a contributing factor to this condition. Administration of IL-15 to CAST mice transiently increased NK and CD8+ T cells that could express IFN-γ, indicating that the progenitor cells were capable of responding to cytokines. However, the number of NK cells rapidly declined indicating a defect in their homeostasis. Furthermore, IL-15-treated mice were protected from an otherwise lethal challenge with VACV or MPXV. IL-15 decreased virus spread and delayed death even when CD4+/CD8+ T cells were depleted with antibody, supporting an early protective role of the expanded NK cells. Purified splenic NK cells from CAST mice proliferated in vitro in response to IL-15 and could be activated with IL-12/IL-18 to secrete interferon-γ. Passive transfer of non-activated or activated CAST NK cells reduced VACV spread but only the latter completely prevented death at the virus dose used. Moreover, antibodies to interferon-γ abrogated the protection by activated NK cells. Thus, the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to orthopoxviruses can be explained by a low level of NK cells and this vulnerability can be overcome either by expanding their NK cells in vivo with IL-15 or by passive transfer of purified NK cells that were expanded and activated in vitro. With the eradication of smallpox, monkeypox virus (MPXV) remains the only poxvirus causing significant mortality in humans. Although endemic in parts of Africa, human infections have occurred in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel due to travelers or imported animals. Contrary to its name, MPXV primarily infects rodents and secondarily infects humans and other primates. The wild-derived CAST mouse is an excellent small animal model for studying the pathogenicity of MPXV and related orthopoxviruses including vaccinia virus (VACV) and for evaluating therapeutics. We previously found that the susceptibility of CAST mice is correlated with low numbers of natural killer (NK) cells and a delayed interferon-γ response. Here we showed that in vivo administration of the cytokine IL-15 transiently raised NK cell numbers and protected CAST mice from systemic infections with VACV and MPXV. CAST mouse NK cells that were purified and expanded in vitro with IL-15 also provided protection, further demonstrating the important role of NK cells. The rapid decline in NK cell numbers following cessation of IL-15 administration or NK cell transfer suggests that a low level of NK cell homeostasis contributes to the susceptibility of CAST mice to virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L. Earl
- Laboratory of Viral Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey L. Americo
- Laboratory of Viral Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Bernard Moss
- Laboratory of Viral Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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15
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Carlson RD, Flickinger JC, Snook AE. Talkin' Toxins: From Coley's to Modern Cancer Immunotherapy. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:E241. [PMID: 32283684 PMCID: PMC7232517 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12040241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of the immune system to precisely target and eliminate aberrant or infected cells has long been studied in the field of infectious diseases. Attempts to define and exploit these potent immunological processes in the fight against cancer has been a longstanding effort dating back over 100 years to when Dr. William Coley purposefully infected cancer patients with a cocktail of heat-killed bacteria to stimulate anti-cancer immune processes. Although the field of cancer immunotherapy has been dotted with skepticism at times, the success of immune checkpoint inhibitors and recent FDA approvals of autologous cell therapies have pivoted immunotherapy to center stage as one of the most promising strategies to treat cancer. This review aims to summarize historic milestones throughout the field of cancer immunotherapy as well as highlight current and promising immunotherapies in development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adam E. Snook
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (R.D.C.); (J.C.F.J.)
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16
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Allegra A, Musolino C, Tonacci A, Pioggia G, Casciaro M, Gangemi S. Clinico-Biological Implications of Modified Levels of Cytokines in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Possible Therapeutic Role. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020524. [PMID: 32102441 PMCID: PMC7072434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) is the main cause of mortality among hematologic diseases in Western nations. B-CLL is correlated with an intense alteration of the immune system. The altered functions of innate immune elements and adaptive immune factors are interconnected in B-CLL and are decisive for its onset, evolution, and therapeutic response. Modifications in the cytokine balance could support the growth of the leukemic clone via a modulation of cellular proliferation and apoptosis, as some cytokines have been reported to be able to affect the life of B-CLL cells in vivo. In this review, we will examine the role played by cytokines in the cellular dynamics of B-CLL patients, interpret the contradictions sometimes present in the literature regarding their action, and evaluate the possibility of manipulating their production in order to intervene in the natural history of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Allegra
- Division of Haematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.M.)
| | - Caterina Musolino
- Division of Haematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.M.)
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | - Marco Casciaro
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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17
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Conlon KC, Potter EL, Pittaluga S, Lee CCR, Miljkovic MD, Fleisher TA, Dubois S, Bryant BR, Petrus M, Perera LP, Hsu J, Figg WD, Peer CJ, Shih JH, Yovandich JL, Creekmore SP, Roederer M, Waldmann TA. IL15 by Continuous Intravenous Infusion to Adult Patients with Solid Tumors in a Phase I Trial Induced Dramatic NK-Cell Subset Expansion. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:4945-4954. [PMID: 31142503 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-3468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The first-in-human clinical trial with human bolus intravenous infusion IL15 (rhIL15) was limited by treatment-associated toxicity. Here, we report toxicity, immunomodulation, and clinical activity of rhIL15 administered as a 10-day continuous intravenous infusion (CIV) to patients with cancers in a phase I trial. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients received treatment for 10 days with CIV rhIL15 in doses of 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 μg/kg/day. Correlative laboratory tests included IL15 pharmacokinetic (PK) analyses, and assessment of changes in lymphocyte subset numbers. RESULTS Twenty-seven patients were treated with rhIL15; 2 μg/kg/day was identified as the MTD. There were eight serious adverse events including two bleeding events, papilledema, uveitis, pneumonitis, duodenal erosions, and two deaths (one due to likely drug-related gastrointestinal ischemia). Evidence of antitumor effects was observed in several patients, but stable disease was the best response noted. Patients in the 2 μg/kg/day group had a 5.8-fold increase in number of circulating CD8+ T cells, 38-fold increase in total NK cells, and 358-fold increase in CD56bright NK cells. Serum IL15 concentrations were markedly lower during the last 3 days of infusion. CONCLUSIONS This phase I trial identified the MTD for CIV rhIL15 and defined a treatment regimen that produced significant expansions of CD8+ T and NK effector cells in circulation and tumor deposits. This regimen has identified several biological features, including dramatic increases in numbers of NK cells, supporting trials of IL15 with anticancer mAbs to increase antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and anticancer efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Conlon
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - E Lake Potter
- ImmunoTechnology Section Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Stefania Pittaluga
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Milos D Miljkovic
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas A Fleisher
- NIH Clinical Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sigrid Dubois
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Bonita R Bryant
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Michael Petrus
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Liyanage P Perera
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jennifer Hsu
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William D Figg
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cody J Peer
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joanna H Shih
- Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jason L Yovandich
- Biological Resources Branch, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Developmental Therapeutics Program, NCI, NIH, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Stephen P Creekmore
- Biological Resources Branch, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Developmental Therapeutics Program, NCI, NIH, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Mario Roederer
- ImmunoTechnology Section Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
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18
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Nayyar G, Chu Y, Cairo MS. Overcoming Resistance to Natural Killer Cell Based Immunotherapies for Solid Tumors. Front Oncol 2019; 9:51. [PMID: 30805309 PMCID: PMC6378304 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, the prognosis of several solid tumor malignancies remains poor. Different factors associated with solid tumors including a varied genetic signature, complex molecular signaling pathways, defective cross talk between the tumor cells and immune cells, hypoxic and immunosuppressive effects of tumor microenvironment result in a treatment resistant and metastatic phenotype. Over the past several years, immunotherapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic option against multiple malignancies. The unique ability of natural killer (NK) cells to target cancer cells without antigen specificity makes them an ideal candidate for use against solid tumors. However, the outcomes of adoptive NK cell infusions into patients with solid tumors have been disappointing. Extensive studies have been done to investigate different strategies to improve the NK cell function, trafficking and tumor targeting. Use of cytokines and cytokine analogs has been well described and utilized to enhance the proliferation, stimulation and persistence of NK cells. Other techniques like blocking the human leukocyte antigen-killer cell receptors (KIR) interactions with anti-KIR monoclonal antibodies, preventing CD16 receptor shedding, increasing the expression of activating NK cell receptors like NKG2D, and use of immunocytokines and immune checkpoint inhibitors can enhance NK cell mediated cytotoxicity. Using genetically modified NK cells with chimeric antigen receptors and bispecific and trispecific NK cell engagers, NK cells can be effectively redirected to the tumor cells improving their cytotoxic potential. In this review, we have described these strategies and highlighted the need to further optimize these strategies to improve the clinical outcome of NK cell based immunotherapy against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Nayyar
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Yaya Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Mitchell S Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
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19
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Berraondo P, Sanmamed MF, Ochoa MC, Etxeberria I, Aznar MA, Pérez-Gracia JL, Rodríguez-Ruiz ME, Ponz-Sarvise M, Castañón E, Melero I. Cytokines in clinical cancer immunotherapy. Br J Cancer 2019; 120:6-15. [PMID: 30413827 PMCID: PMC6325155 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0328-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 630] [Impact Index Per Article: 126.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are soluble proteins that mediate cell-to-cell communication. Based on the discovery of the potent anti-tumour activities of several pro-inflammatory cytokines in animal models, clinical research led to the approval of recombinant interferon-alpha and interleukin-2 for the treatment of several malignancies, even if efficacy was only modest. These early milestones in immunotherapy have been followed by the recent addition to clinical practice of antibodies that inhibit immune checkpoints, as well as chimeric antigen receptor T cells. A renewed interest in the anti-tumour properties of cytokines has led to an exponential increase in the number of clinical trials that explore the safety and efficacy of cytokine-based drugs, not only as single agents, but also in combination with other immunomodulatory drugs. These second-generation drugs under clinical development include known molecules with novel mechanisms of action, new targets, and fusion proteins that increase half-life and target cytokine activity to the tumour microenvironment or to the desired effector immune cells. In addition, the detrimental activity of immunosuppressive cytokines can be blocked by antagonistic antibodies, small molecules, cytokine traps or siRNAs. In this review, we provide an overview of the novel trends in the cytokine immunotherapy field that are yielding therapeutic agents for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Berraondo
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Miguel F Sanmamed
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - María C Ochoa
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iñaki Etxeberria
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria A Aznar
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
| | - José Luis Pérez-Gracia
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - María E Rodríguez-Ruiz
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mariano Ponz-Sarvise
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Castañón
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Pamplona, Spain.
- Department of Oncology and immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
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Abstract
Cytokines that control the immune response were shown to have efficacy in preclinical murine cancer models. Interferon (IFN)-α is approved for treatment of hairy cell leukemia, and interleukin (IL)-2 for the treatment of advanced melanoma and metastatic renal cancer. In addition, IL-12, IL-15, IL-21, and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) have been evaluated in clinical trials. However, the cytokines as monotherapy have not fulfilled their early promise because cytokines administered parenterally do not achieve sufficient concentrations in the tumor, are often associated with severe toxicities, and induce humoral or cellular checkpoints. To circumvent these impediments, cytokines are being investigated clinically in combination therapy with checkpoint inhibitors, anticancer monoclonal antibodies to increase the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of these antibodies, antibody cytokine fusion proteins, and anti-CD40 to facilitate tumor-specific immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1374
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21
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Abstract
Cytokines are major regulators of innate and adaptive immunity that enable cells of the immune system to communicate over short distances. Cytokine therapy to activate the immune system of cancer patients has been an important treatment modality and continues to be a key contributor to current clinical cancer research. Interferon alpha (IFNα) is approved for adjuvant treatment of completely resected high-risk melanoma patients and several refractory malignancies. High-dose interleukin-2 (HDIL-2) is approved for treatment of metastatic renal cell cancer and melanoma, but both agents are currently less commonly used with the development of newer agents. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), IFN gamma (IFNγ), IL-7, IL-12, and IL-21 were evaluated in clinical trials and remain part of certain investigational trials. The initial single-agent clinical trials with the long-awaited IL-15 have been completed and combination trials with antitumor antibodies or checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have been initiated. However, cytokines in monotherapy have not fulfilled the promise of efficacy seen in preclinical experiments. They are often associated with severe dose-limiting toxicities that are manageable with appropriate dosing and are now better understood to induce immune-suppressive humoral factors, suppressive cells, and cellular checkpoints, without consistently inducing a tumor-specific response. To circumvent these impediments, cytokines are being investigated clinically with new engineered cytokine mutants (superkines), chimeric antibody-cytokine fusion proteins (immunokines), anticancer vaccines, CPIs, and cancer-directed monoclonal antibodies to increase their antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity or sustain cellular responses and anticancer efficacy. In this review, we summarize current knowledge and clinical application of cytokines either as monotherapy or in combination with other biological agents. We emphasize a discussion of future directions for research on these cytokines, to bring them to fruition as major contributors for the treatment of metastatic malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Conlon
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Milos D Miljkovic
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
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22
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Liu X, Li Y, Sun X, Muftuoglu Y, Wang B, Yu T, Hu Y, Ma L, Xiang M, Guo G, You C, Gao X, Wei Y. Powerful anti-colon cancer effect of modified nanoparticle-mediated IL-15 immunogene therapy through activation of the host immune system. Theranostics 2018; 8:3490-3503. [PMID: 30026861 PMCID: PMC6037032 DOI: 10.7150/thno.24157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer around the world. Over the past several years, immunotherapy has demonstrated considerable clinical benefit in CRC therapy, and the number of immunologic therapies for cancer treatment continues to climb each year. Interleukin-15 (IL15), a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine, has emerged as a candidate immunomodulator for the treatment of CRC. Methods: In this study, we developed a novel gene delivery system with a self-assembly method using DOTAP and MPEG-PLA (DMA) to carry pIL15, denoted as DMA-pIL15 which was used to treat tumor-bearing mice. Results: Supernatant from lymphocytes treated with supernatant derived from CT26 cells transfected with DMA-pIL15 inhibited the growth of CT26 cells and induced cell apoptosis in vitro. Treatment of tumor-bearing mice with DMA-pIL15 complex significantly inhibited tumor growth in both subcutaneous and peritoneal models in vivo by inhibiting angiogenesis, promoting apoptosis, and reducing proliferation through activation of the host immune system. Conclusion: The IL-15 plasmid and DMA complex showed promise for treating CRC clinically as an experimental new drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, China
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Department of radiation oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | | | - Bilan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ting Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuzhu Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lu Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Mingli Xiang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Gang Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Chao You
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
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23
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New interleukin-15 superagonist (IL-15SA) significantly enhances graft-versus-tumor activity. Oncotarget 2018; 8:44366-44378. [PMID: 28574833 PMCID: PMC5546486 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a potent cytokine that increases CD8+ T and NK cell numbers and function in experimental models. However, obstacles remain in using IL-15 therapeutically, specifically its low potency and short in vivo half-life. To help overcome this, a new IL-15 superagonist complex comprised of an IL-15N72D mutation and IL-15RαSu/Fc fusion (IL-15SA, also known as ALT-803) was developed. IL-15SA exhibits a significantly longer serum half-life and increased in vivo activity against various tumors. Herein, we evaluated the effects of IL-15SA in recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Weekly administration of IL-15SA to transplant recipients significantly increased the number of CD8+ T cells (specifically CD44+ memory/activated phenotype) and NK cells. Intracellular IFN-γ and TNF-α secretion by CD8+ T cells increased in the IL-15SA-treated group. IL-15SA also upregulated NKG2D expression on CD8+ T cells. Moreover, IL-15SA enhanced proliferation and cytokine secretion of adoptively transferred CFSE-labeled T cells in syngeneic and allogeneic models by specifically stimulating the slowly proliferative and nonproliferative cells into actively proliferating cells. We then evaluated IL-15SA's effects on anti-tumor activity against murine mastocytoma (P815) and murine B cell lymphoma (A20). IL-15SA enhanced graft-versus-tumor (GVT) activity in these tumors following T cell infusion. Interestingly, IL-15 SA administration provided GVT activity against A20 lymphoma cells in the murine donor leukocyte infusion (DLI) model without increasing graft versus host disease. In conclusion, IL-15SA could be a highly potent T- cell lymphoid growth factor and novel immunotherapeutic agent to complement stem cell transplantation and adoptive immunotherapy.
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24
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Di Scala M, Gil-Fariña I, Olagüe C, Vales A, Sobrevals L, Fortes P, Corbacho D, González-Aseguinolaza G. Identification of IFN-γ-producing T cells as the main mediators of the side effects associated to mouse interleukin-15 sustained exposure. Oncotarget 2018; 7:49008-49026. [PMID: 27356750 PMCID: PMC5226487 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cell growth-factor that regulates lymphocyte function and homeostasis. Its strong immunostimulatory activity coupled with an apparent lack of toxicity makes IL-15 an exciting candidate for cancer therapy, somehow limited by its short half-life in circulation. To increase IL-15 bioavailability we constructed a recombinant adeno-associated vector expressing murine IL-15 (AAV-mIL15) in the liver. Mice injected with AAV-mIL15 showed sustained and vector dose-dependent levels of IL-15/IL-15Rα complexes in serum, production of IFN-γ and activation of CD8+ T-cells and macrophages. The antitumoral efficacy of AAV-mIL15 was tested in a mouse model of metastatic colorectal cancer established by injection of MC38 cells. AAV-mIL15 treatment slightly inhibits MC38 tumor-growth and significantly increases the survival of mice. However, mIL-15 sustained expression was associated with development of side effects like hepatosplenomegaly, liver damage and the development of haematological stress, which results in the expansion of hematopoietic precursors in the bone marrow. To elucidate the mechanism, we treated IFN-γ receptor-, RAG1-, CD1d- and µMT-deficient mice and performed adoptive transfer of bone marrow cells from WT mice to RAG1-defcient mice. We demonstrated that the side effects of murine IL-15 administration were mainly mediated by IFN-γ-producing T-cells. CONCLUSIONS IL-15 induces the activation and survival of effector immune cells that are necessary for its antitumoral activity; but, long-term exposure to IL-15 is associated with the development of important side effects mainly mediated by IFN-γ-producing T-cells. Strategies to modulate T-cell activation should be combined with IL-15 administration to reduce secondary adverse events while maintaining its antitumoral effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Di Scala
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Irene Gil-Fariña
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Department of Translational Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cristina Olagüe
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Africa Vales
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Luciano Sobrevals
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Puri Fortes
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - David Corbacho
- Imaging Unit and Cancer Imaging Laboratory, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Gloria González-Aseguinolaza
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
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25
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Wrangle JM, Patterson A, Johnson CB, Neitzke DJ, Mehrotra S, Denlinger CE, Paulos CM, Li Z, Cole DJ, Rubinstein MP. IL-2 and Beyond in Cancer Immunotherapy. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2018; 38:45-68. [PMID: 29443657 PMCID: PMC5815463 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2017.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the T- and natural killer (NK) cell growth factor IL-2 has been a sentinel force ushering in the era of immunotherapy in cancer. With the advent of clinical grade recombinant IL-2 in the mid-1980s, oncologists could for the first time directly manipulate lymphocyte populations with systemic therapy. By itself, recombinant IL-2 can induce clinical responses in up to 15% of patients with metastatic cancer or renal cell carcinoma. When administered with adoptively transferred tumor-reactive lymphocytes, IL-2 promotes T cell engraftment and response rates of up to 50% in metastatic melanoma patients. Importantly, these IL-2-driven responses can yield complete and durable responses in a subset of patients. However, the use of IL-2 is limited by toxicity and concern of the expansion of T regulatory cells. To overcome these limitations and improve response rates, other T cell growth factors, including IL-15 and modified forms of IL-2, are in clinical development. Administering T cell growth factors in combination with other agents, such as immune checkpoint pathway inhibitors, may also improve efficacy. In this study, we review the development of T- and NK cell growth factors and highlight current combinatorial approaches based on these reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. Wrangle
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Alicia Patterson
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - C. Bryce Johnson
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Daniel J. Neitzke
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Shikhar Mehrotra
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Chadrick E. Denlinger
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Chrystal M. Paulos
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Zihai Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - David J. Cole
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Mark P. Rubinstein
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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26
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Lin S, Huang G, Xiao Y, Sun W, Jiang Y, Deng Q, Peng M, Wei X, Ye W, Li B, Lin S, Wang S, Wu Q, Liang Q, Li Y, Zhang X, Wu Y, Liu P, Pei D, Yu F, Wen Z, Yao Y, Wu D, Li P. CD215+ Myeloid Cells Respond to Interleukin 15 Stimulation and Promote Tumor Progression. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1713. [PMID: 29255466 PMCID: PMC5722806 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 15 (IL-15) regulates the development, survival, and functions of multiple innate and adaptive immune cells and plays a dual role in promoting both tumor cell growth and antitumor immunity. Here, we demonstrated that the in vivo injection of recombinant human IL-15 (200 µg/kg) or murine IL-15 (3 µg/kg) to tumor-bearing NOD-SCID-IL2Rg−/− (NSI) mice resulted in increased tumor progression and CD45+ CD11b+ Gr-1+ CD215+ cell expansion in the tumors and spleen. In B16F10-bearing C57BL/6 mice model, we found that murine IL-15 has antitumoral effect since the activation and expansion of CD8+ T cells with murine IL-15 treatment. But no enhanced or reduced tumor growth was observed in mice when human IL-15 was used. However, both murine and human IL-15 promote CD45+ CD11b+ Gr-1+ CD215+ cells expansion. In xenograft tumor models, CD215+ myeloid cells, but not CD215− cells, responded to human IL-15 stimulation and promoted tumor growth. Furthermore, we found that human IL-15 mediated insulin-like growth factor-1 production in CD215+ myeloid cells and blocking IGF-1 reduced the tumor-promoting effect of IL-15. Finally, we observed that higher IGF-1 expression is an indicator of poor prognosis among lung adenocarcinoma patients. These findings provide evidence that IL-15 may promote tumor cell progression via CD215+ myeloid cells, and IGF-1 may be an important candidate that IL-15 facilitates tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouheng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guohua Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiren Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuhua Deng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muyun Peng
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xinru Wei
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baiheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Simiao Lin
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suna Wang
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiting Wu
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiubin Liang
- Guangdong Zhaotai InVivo Biomedicine Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangqiu Li
- Medical College, Institute of Hematology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuchao Zhang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Medical Research Center, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yilong Wu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Medical Research Center, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pentao Liu
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Duanqing Pei
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fenglei Yu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhesheng Wen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Donghai Wu
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Li
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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27
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Setrerrahmane S, Xu H. Tumor-related interleukins: old validated targets for new anti-cancer drug development. Mol Cancer 2017; 16:153. [PMID: 28927416 PMCID: PMC5606116 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-017-0721-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In-depth knowledge of cancer molecular and cellular mechanisms have revealed a strong regulation of cancer development and progression by the inflammation which orchestrates the tumor microenvironment. Immune cells, residents or recruited, in the inflammation milieu can have rather contrasting effects during cancer development. Accumulated clinical and experimental data support the notion that acute inflammation could exert an immunoprotective effect leading to tumor eradication. However, chronic immune response promotes tumor growth and invasion. These reactions are mediated by soluble mediators or cytokines produced by either host immune cells or tumor cells themselves. Herein, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of the best-validated cytokines involved in tumor progression, IL-1, IL-4 and IL-6; in addition to IL-2 cytokines family, which is known to promote tumor eradication by immune cells. Furthermore, we summarize the clinical attempts to block or bolster the effect of these tumor-related interleukins in anti-cancer therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarra Setrerrahmane
- The Engineering Research Center of Peptide Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanmei Xu
- The Engineering Research Center of Peptide Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, People's Republic of China.
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28
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The potential and promise of IL-15 in immuno-oncogenic therapies. Immunol Lett 2017; 190:159-168. [PMID: 28823521 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2017.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This review provides an in-depth description of the preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating the effectiveness and limitations of IL-15 and IL-15 analogs given as an exogenous immuno-oncology agent. IL-15 is a cytokine that primarily stimulates the proliferation and cytotoxic functions of CD8T cells and NK cells leading to enhanced anti-tumor responses. While initially showing promise as a cancer therapeutic, the efficacy of IL-15 was limited by its short in vivo half-life. More recently, various approaches have been developed to improve the in vivo half-life and efficacy of IL-15, largely by generating IL-15/IL-15Rα conjugates. These new IL-15 based agents renew the prospect of IL-15 as a cancer immunotherapeutic agent. While having some efficacy in inducing tumor regression as a monotherapy, IL-15 agents also show great potential in being used in combination with other immuno-oncological therapies. Indeed, IL-15 used in combination therapy yields even better anti-tumor responses and prolongs survival than IL-15 treatment alone in numerous murine cancer models. The promising results from these preclinical studies have led to the implementation of several clinical trials to test the safety and efficacy of IL-15-based agents as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies to treat both advanced solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
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29
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Song Y, Liu Y, Hu R, Su M, Rood D, Lai L. In Vivo Antitumor Activity of a Recombinant IL7/IL15 Hybrid Cytokine in Mice. Mol Cancer Ther 2016; 15:2413-2421. [PMID: 27474151 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Both IL7 and IL15 have become important candidate immunomodulators for cancer treatment. However, IL7 or IL15 used alone suffers from shortcomings, such as short serum half-life and limited antitumor effect. We have cloned and expressed a recombinant (r) IL7/IL15 fusion protein in which IL7 and IL15 are linked by a flexible linker. We then compared the antitumor effect of rIL7/IL15 with the individual factors rIL7 and/or rIL15. We show here that rIL7/IL15 has a higher antitumor activity than the combination of the individual factors in both murine B16F10 melanoma and CT-26 colon cancer models. This was associated with a significant increase in tumor infiltration of T cells, DCs, and NK cells and a decrease in regulatory T cells (Tregs). In addition, rIL7/IL15-treated DCs had higher expression of costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86. The higher antitumor activity of rIL7/IL15 is likely due to its longer in vivo half-life and different effects on immune cells. Our results suggest that rIL7/IL15 may offer a new tool to enhance antitumor immunity and treat cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(10); 2413-21. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhong Song
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut. Medical College, Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yalan Liu
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Min Su
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Debra Rood
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Laijun Lai
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut. University of Connecticut Stem Cell Institute, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut.
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30
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Li Y, Yin J, Li T, Huang S, Yan H, Leavenworth J, Wang X. NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy: from basic biology to clinical application. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2015; 58:1233-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-015-4970-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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31
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Waldmann TA. The shared and contrasting roles of IL2 and IL15 in the life and death of normal and neoplastic lymphocytes: implications for cancer therapy. Cancer Immunol Res 2015; 3:219-27. [PMID: 25736261 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-15-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
IL2 and IL15, members of the 4α-helix bundle family of cytokines, play pivotal roles in the control of the life and death of lymphocytes. Although their heterotrimeric receptors have two receptor subunits in common, these two cytokines have contrasting roles in adaptive immune responses. The unique role of IL2 through maintenance of fitness of regulatory T cells and activation-induced cell death is the elimination of self-reactive T cells to prevent autoimmunity. In contrast with IL2, IL15 is dedicated to the prolonged maintenance of memory T-cell responses to invading pathogens. Blockade of IL2 and IL15 using monoclonal antibodies has been reported to be of value in the treatment of patients with leukemia, autoimmune disorders, and in the prevention of allograft rejection. IL2 has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of patients with malignant renal cell cancer and metastatic malignant melanoma. Clinical trials involving recombinant human IL15 given by bolus infusions have been completed, and studies assessing subcutaneous and continuous intravenous infusions are under way in patients with metastatic malignancy. Furthermore, clinical trials are being initiated that employ the combination of IL15 with IL15Rα(+/-) IgFc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
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32
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Hira SK, Mondal I, Bhattacharya D, Gupta KK, Manna PP. Downregulation of STAT3 phosphorylation enhances tumoricidal effect of IL-15-activated dendritic cell against doxorubicin-resistant lymphoma and leukemia via TNF-α. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2015; 67:1-13. [PMID: 26255115 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although disputed by some, increasing evidence suggests that TNF-α synergies with traditional chemotherapeutic drugs to exert a heightened antitumor effect. The present study investigated the antitumor efficacy of recombinant IL-15 in combination with the STAT3 inhibitor cucurbitacin-I in a doxorubicin-resistant murine lymphoma model. The significance of the work is to understand and design effective strategies in doxorubicin resistant lymphomas. TNF-α is downregulated in dendritic cells from mice with Dalton's lymphoma and shows an inverse relationship with disease progression. Doxorubicin-resistant DL cells have elevated levels of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 and increased phosphorylation of STAT3. These cells are refractory to dendritic cell derived TNF-α. Doxorubicin resistant Dalton's lymphoma is susceptible to dendritic cell derived TNF-α upon stimulation with the STAT3 inhibitor cucurbitacin-I, which downregulates STAT3 and other survival molecules. The combined treatment of low dose of cucurbitacin-I and rIL-15 is ineffective in mice with doxorubicin resistant Dalton's lymphoma, but a similar therapy prolongs the survival of mice transplanted with parental Dalton's lymphoma. Doxorubicin resistant Dalton's lymphoma responds to therapy with high doses of cucurbitacin-I and rIL-15. Dendritic cell derived from mice responded positively to the therapy and regained their tumoricidal properties with respect to growth inhibition and killing of DL tumor cells. Similar to DL, DC derived from CML patients are impaired in TNF-α expression and are unable to restrict the growth of drug-resistant lymphoma and leukemia cells. This combination approach could be used as a new therapeutic strategy for aggressive and highly metastatic doxorubicin resistant lymphoma.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Coculture Techniques
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Dendritic Cells/drug effects
- Dendritic Cells/metabolism
- Dendritic Cells/pathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Interleukin-15/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/pathology
- Lymphocytes/drug effects
- Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Lymphocytes/pathology
- Lymphoma/drug therapy
- Lymphoma/metabolism
- Lymphoma/mortality
- Lymphoma/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred AKR
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/genetics
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- Recombinant Proteins/pharmacology
- STAT3 Transcription Factor/antagonists & inhibitors
- STAT3 Transcription Factor/genetics
- STAT3 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Survival Analysis
- Triterpenes/pharmacology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/agonists
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/genetics
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar Hira
- Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India; Department of Zoology, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan, West Bengal, India
| | - Indrani Mondal
- Department of Pathology, Burdwan Medical College, Burdwan, West Bengal, India; Department of Pathology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | | | - Kailash Kumar Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Partha Pratim Manna
- Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Conlon KC, Lugli E, Welles HC, Rosenberg SA, Fojo AT, Morris JC, Fleisher TA, Dubois SP, Perera LP, Stewart DM, Goldman CK, Bryant BR, Decker JM, Chen J, Worthy TA, Figg WD, Peer CJ, Sneller MC, Lane HC, Yovandich JL, Creekmore SP, Roederer M, Waldmann TA. Redistribution, hyperproliferation, activation of natural killer cells and CD8 T cells, and cytokine production during first-in-human clinical trial of recombinant human interleukin-15 in patients with cancer. J Clin Oncol 2014; 33:74-82. [PMID: 25403209 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2014.57.3329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 490] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Interleukin-15 (IL-15) has significant potential in cancer immunotherapy as an activator of antitumor CD8 T and natural killer (NK) cells. The primary objectives of this trial were to determine safety, adverse event profile, dose-limiting toxicity, and maximum-tolerated dose of recombinant human IL-15 (rhIL-15) administered as a daily intravenous bolus infusion for 12 consecutive days in patients with metastatic malignancy. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a first in-human trial of Escherichia coli-produced rhIL-15. Bolus infusions of 3.0, 1.0, and 0.3 μg/kg per day of IL-15 were administered for 12 consecutive days to patients with metastatic malignant melanoma or metastatic renal cell cancer. RESULTS Flow cytometry of peripheral blood lymphocytes revealed dramatic efflux of NK and memory CD8 T cells from the circulating blood within minutes of IL-15 administration, followed by influx and hyperproliferation yielding 10-fold expansions of NK cells that ultimately returned to baseline. Up to 50-fold increases of serum levels of multiple inflammatory cytokines were observed. Dose-limiting toxicities observed in patients receiving 3.0 and 1.0 μg/kg per day were grade 3 hypotension, thrombocytopenia, and elevations of ALT and AST, resulting in 0.3 μg/kg per day being determined the maximum-tolerated dose. Indications of activity included clearance of lung lesions in two patients. CONCLUSION IL-15 could be safely administered to patients with metastatic malignancy. IL-15 administration markedly altered homeostasis of lymphocyte subsets in blood, with NK cells and γδ cells most dramatically affected, followed by CD8 memory T cells. To reduce toxicity and increase efficacy, alternative dosing strategies have been initiated, including continuous intravenous infusions and subcutaneous IL-15 administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Conlon
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Enrico Lugli
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Hugh C Welles
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Steven A Rosenberg
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Antonio Tito Fojo
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - John C Morris
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Thomas A Fleisher
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Sigrid P Dubois
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Liyanage P Perera
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Donn M Stewart
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Carolyn K Goldman
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Bonita R Bryant
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Jean M Decker
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Jing Chen
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Tat'Yana A Worthy
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - William D Figg
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Cody J Peer
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Michael C Sneller
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - H Clifford Lane
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Jason L Yovandich
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Stephen P Creekmore
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Mario Roederer
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Thomas A Waldmann
- Kevin C. Conlon, Steven A. Rosenberg, Antonio Tito Fojo, John C. Morris, Thomas A. Fleisher, Sigrid P. Dubois, Liyanage P. Perera, Donn M. Stewart, Carolyn K. Goldman, Bonita R. Bryant, Jean M. Decker, Jing Chen, Tat'Yana A. Worthy, William D. Figg Sr, Cody J. Peer, and Thomas A. Waldmann, National Cancer Institute; Enrico Lugli, Hugh C. Welles, Michael C. Sneller, H. Clifford Lane, and Mario Roederer, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda; Jason L. Yovandich and Stephen P. Creekmore, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD; and Hugh C. Welles, Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC.
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Abstract
IL-15 is a 14-15 kDa member of the four α-helix bundle of cytokines that acts through a heterotrimeric receptor involving IL-2/IL-15R β, γc and the IL-15 specific receptor subunit IL-15R α. IL-15 stimulates the proliferation of T, B and NK cells, and induces stem, central and effector memory CD8 T cells. In rhesus macaques, continuous infusion of recombinant human IL-15 at 20 μg/kg/day was associated with approximately a 10-fold increase in the numbers of circulating NK, γ/δ cells and monocytes, and an 80- to 100-fold increase in the numbers of effector memory CD8 T cells. IL-15 has shown efficacy in murine models of malignancy. Clinical trials involving recombinant human IL-15 given by bolus infusions have been completed and by subcutaneous and continuous intravenous infusions are underway in patients with metastatic malignancy. Furthermore, clinical trials are being initiated that employ the combination of IL-15 with IL-15R α(+/-) IgFc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Waldmann
- Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Building 10, Room 4N115, Bethesda, MD 20892-1374, USA
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Van den Bergh JMJ, Van Tendeloo VFI, Smits ELJM. Interleukin-15: new kid on the block for antitumor combination therapy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2014; 26:15-24. [PMID: 25306466 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-15 is one of the most promising molecules to be used in antitumor immune therapy, as it is able to stimulate the main killer cells of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Although this cytokine can be used as a stand-alone immunotherapeutic agent, IL-15 will probably be most efficient in combination with other strategies to overcome high tumor burden, immune suppression of the tumor microenvironment and/or the short half-life of IL-15. In this review, we will discuss the combination strategies with IL-15 that have been tested to date in different animal tumor models, which include chemotherapy, other immunostimulatory cytokines, targeted therapy, adoptive cell transfer and gene therapy. In addition, we give an overview of IL-15 combination therapies that are currently tested in clinical studies to treat patients with hematological or advanced solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan M J Van den Bergh
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Viggo F I Van Tendeloo
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Evelien L J M Smits
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Center for Oncological Research Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Abstract
The use of cytokines from the IL-2 family (also called the common γ chain cytokine family) such as interleukin (IL)-2, IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 to activate the immune system of cancer patients is one of the most important areas of current cancer immunotherapy research. The infusion of IL-2 at low or high doses for multiple cycles in patients with metastatic melanoma and renal cell carcinoma was the first successful immunotherapy for cancer proving that the immune system could completely eradicate tumor cells under certain conditions. The initial clinical success observed in some IL-2-treated patients encouraged further efforts focused on developing and improving the application of other IL-2 family cytokines (IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21) that have unique biological effects playing important roles in the development, proliferation, and function of specific subsets of lymphocytes at different stages of differentiation with some overlapping effects with IL-2. IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21, as well as mutant forms or variants of IL-2, are now also being actively pursued in the clinic with some measured early successes. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the biology of the IL-2 cytokine family focusing on IL-2, IL-15 and IL-21. We discuss the similarities and differences between the signaling pathways mediated by these cytokines and their immunomodulatory effects on different subsets of immune cells. Current clinical application of IL-2, IL-15 and IL-21 either as single agents or in combination with other biological agents and the limitation and potential drawbacks of these cytokines for cancer immunotherapy are also described. Lastly, we discuss the future direction of research on these cytokines, such as the development of new cytokine mutants and variants for improving cytokine-based immunotherapy through differential binding to specific receptor subunits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geok Choo Sim
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Laszlo Radvanyi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Lion Biotechnologies, Woodland Hills, CA 91367, USA.
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Zhao N, Li X, He X, Qiu Y, Zhu L, Qi F. Interleukin-15 gene therapy and the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus inhibit the growth of metastatic breast cancer. J Gene Med 2014; 15:366-74. [PMID: 24038990 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel methods to control and treat metastatic breast cancer are needed. Interleukin (IL)-15 is a promising cytokine for cancer immunotherapy, and everolimus is an orally administered mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, which is already approved for cancer treatment. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy of IL-15 gene therapy and explored the possibility of combining IL-15 therapy with everolimus to treat metastatic breast cancer. METHODS A plasmid encoding IL-15 and everolimus were given to mice inoculated with 4 T1 mouse breast cancer cells. Tumor size and metastasis were monitored to assess the effect of different treatment regimens. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect CD4⁺, CD8⁺ and NKG2D⁺ cells and also the expression of Ki-67 in tumor tissue; these analyses helped establish the immunization status and tumor proliferation rate of different treatment groups. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays were performed to assess cellular apoptosis in tumor tissues. RESULTS Both IL-15 and everolimus significantly decreased tumor size. IL-15 gene therapy increased the proportion of CD4⁺ T and natural killer (NK) cells but had no effect on CD8⁺ T cells. By contrast, everolimus decreased the number of CD8⁺ T cells but had no effect on CD4⁺ T and NK cells compared to the control group. Both IL-15 and everolimus decreased expression of Ki-67 and increased rates of apoptosis. Although effective on their own, no synergistic effect was observed with a combined treatment of everolimus and IL-15 gene therapy. CONCLUSIONS IL-15 gene therapy was potentially useful for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. The possibility of combining immunotherapy with everolimus requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Laprevotte E, Voisin G, Ysebaert L, Klein C, Daugrois C, Laurent G, Fournie JJ, Quillet-Mary A. Recombinant human IL-15 trans-presentation by B leukemic cells from chronic lymphocytic leukemia induces autologous NK cell proliferation leading to improved anti-CD20 immunotherapy. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 191:3634-40. [PMID: 23997218 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1300187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant human IL-15 (rhIL-15) is one of the most promising cytokines for antitumor immunotherapy. In physiology IL-15 trans-presentation by accessory cells leads to pleiotropic activities, including activation of immune cells, such as NK cells. NK cells are largely involved in Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity mediated by therapeutic mAbs, such as rituximab, in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Nevertheless, in CLL, Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity is relatively impaired by the low E:T ratio (NK/B leukemic cells). Thus, any strategy leading to an increase in NK cell number and activation status can offer new strategies for CLL treatment. To this end, we evaluated the effect of rhIL-15 on autologous NK cell stimulation in CLL samples. We show that rhIL-15 induces NK cell activation and proliferation, leading to improved B leukemic cell depletion. This phenomenon is significantly increased in the presence of anti-CD20 mAbs. In addition, the greater effect of obinutuzumab versus rituximab suggests a cooperative role between rhIL-15 signaling and CD16 signaling in the induction of NK cell proliferation. Moreover, rhIL-15-induced proliferation of autologous NK cells is strictly dependent on their interaction with B leukemic cells, identified in this study as new accessory cells for rhIL-15 trans-presentation. Thus, rhIL-15 is able to promote NK cell-based activity in Ab immunotherapy of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Laprevotte
- INSERM Unité Mixte de Recherche 1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, BP3028 Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Purpan, F-31300 Toulouse, France
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Sauter CT, Bailey CP, Panis MM, Biswas CS, Budak-Alpdogan T, Durham A, Flomenberg N, Alpdogan O. Interleukin-15 administration increases graft-versus-tumor activity in recipients of haploidentical hematopoietic SCT. Bone Marrow Transplant 2013; 48:1237-42. [DOI: 10.1038/bmt.2013.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Revised: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Zhang M, Ju W, Yao Z, Yu P, Wei BR, Simpson RM, Waitz R, Fassò M, Allison JP, Waldmann TA. Augmented IL-15Rα expression by CD40 activation is critical in synergistic CD8 T cell-mediated antitumor activity of anti-CD40 antibody with IL-15 in TRAMP-C2 tumors in mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2012; 188:6156-64. [PMID: 22593619 PMCID: PMC3370156 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1102604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
IL-15 has potential as an immunotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment because it is a critical factor for the proliferation and activation of NK and CD8(+) T cells. However, monotherapy of patients with malignancy with IL-15 that has been initiated may not be optimal, because of the limited expression of the private receptor, IL-15Rα. We demonstrated greater CD8 T cell-mediated therapeutic efficacy using a combination regimen of murine IL-15 administered with an agonistic anti-CD40 Ab (FGK4.5) that led to increased IL-15Rα expression on dendritic cells (DCs), as well as other cell types, in a syngeneic established TRAMP-C2 tumor model. Seventy to one hundred percent of TRAMP-C2 tumor-bearing wild-type C57BL/6 mice in the combination group manifested sustained remissions, whereas only 0-30% in the anti-CD40-alone group and none in the murine IL-15-alone group became tumor free (p < 0.001). However, the combination regimen showed less efficacy in TRAMP-C2 tumor-bearing IL-15Rα(-/-) mice than in wild-type mice. The combination regimen significantly increased the numbers of TRAMP-C2 tumor-specific SPAS-1/SNC9-H(8) tetramer(+)CD8(+) T cells, which were associated with the protection from tumor development on rechallenge with TRAMP-C2 tumor cells. Using an in vitro cytolytic assay that involved NK cells primed by wild-type or IL-15Rα(-/-) bone marrow-derived DCs, we demonstrated that the expression of IL-15Rα by DCs appeared to be required for optimal IL-15-induced NK priming and killing. These findings support the view that anti-CD40-mediated augmented IL-15Rα expression was critical in IL-15-associated sustained remissions observed in TRAMP-C2 tumor-bearing mice receiving combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meili Zhang
- Metabolism Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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41
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Matsumoto K, Kikuchi E, Horinaga M, Takeda T, Miyajima A, Nakagawa K, Oya M. Intravesical interleukin-15 gene therapy in an orthotopic bladder cancer model. Hum Gene Ther 2011; 22:1423-32. [PMID: 21554107 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is known to stimulate the proliferation of CD8(+) T-cells and natural killer cells, and also to help to maintain memory CD8(+) T cells, suggesting that it may be of value in cytokine treatment of bladder cancer. In this experiment, we tested the efficiency of intravesical liposomal IL-15 gene delivery and its antitumor effect in a mouse orthotopic bladder cancer model. We established an orthotopic bladder cancer model by implanting 5×10(5) MBT-2 cells into female C3H/HeN mice through the urethra. The mice received repeated intravesical gene delivery injected with liposome-mediated plasmids (5 μg) transurethrally. On day 23, the bladder weights in the group receiving medium alone, the beta-galactosidase gene delivery control group, and the IL-15 gene therapy group were 196±36 mg, 201±35 mg, and 96±29 mg, respectively (p<0.05), demonstrating the antitumor effect of intravesical IL-15 gene therapy in this model. In the bladders treated with IL-15 gene plasmid instillation, histological analysis revealed that many inflammatory cells were induced around the tumors. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that there was predominant infiltration of CD8(+) T cells around the tumor nest. After the intravesical IL-15 gene therapy, the growth of rechallenged subcutaneous MBT-2 cells in surviving mice was inhibited again via tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes, although newly implanted FM3A cells in the same mice were not rejected. The present findings indicate that IL-15 gene therapy may be a promising new adjuvant therapy for bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Matsumoto
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
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Safety (toxicity), pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, and impact on elements of the normal immune system of recombinant human IL-15 in rhesus macaques. Blood 2011; 117:4787-95. [PMID: 21385847 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-10-311456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IL-15 uses the heterotrimeric receptor IL-2/IL-15Rβ and the γ chain shared with IL-2 and the cytokine-specific IL-15Rα. Although IL-15 shares actions with IL-2 that include activation of natural killer (NK) and CD8 T cells, IL-15 is not associated with capillary leak syndrome, activation-induced cell death, or with a major effect on the number of functional regulatory T cells. To prepare for human trials to determine whether IL-15 is superior to IL-2 in cancer therapy, recombinant human IL-15 (rhIL-15) was produced under current good manufacturing practices. A safety study in rhesus macaques was performed in 4 groups of 6 animals each that received vehicle diluent control or rhIL-15 at 10, 20, or 50 μg/kg/d IV for 12 days. The major toxicity was grade 3/4 transient neutropenia. Bone marrow examinations demonstrated increased marrow cellularity, including cells of the neutrophil series. Furthermore, neutrophils were observed in sinusoids of enlarged livers and spleens, suggesting that IL-15 mediated neutrophil redistribution from the circulation to tissues. The observation that IL-15 administration was associated with increased numbers of circulating NK and CD8 central and effector-memory T cells, in conjunction with efficacy studies in murine tumor models, supports the use of multiple daily infusions of rhIL-15 in patients with metastatic malignancies.
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Chang CM, Lo CH, Shih YM, Chen Y, Wu PY, Tsuneyama K, Roffler SR, Tao MH. Treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with adeno-associated virus encoding interleukin-15 superagonist. Hum Gene Ther 2010; 21:611-21. [PMID: 20064014 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2009.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, but effective therapies are still needed. The liver has been identified as an important immune organ and is heavily populated with various lymphocyte subsets known to play important roles in cancer immunosurveillance. We hypothesized that activation of hepatic lymphocytes by interleukin (IL)-15, a cytokine known for its ability to trigger proliferation and activation of natural killer (NK) cells, natural killer T cells, and memory CD8(+) T cells, might offer an alternative therapy for HCC. We employed hepatotropic adeno-associated virus serotype 8 (AAV8) to deliver an IL-15 superagonist (IL-15-IL-15RalphaS), consisting of IL-15 covalently linked to the N-terminal sushi domain of the IL-15 receptor alpha chain, to achieve local sustained cytokine expression in the liver environment. We observed that a single injection of AAV8 expressing IL-15-IL-15RalphaS, but not IL-15 alone, greatly expanded the number of hepatic mononuclear cells, mainly NK cells, for at least 21 days. AAV8/IL-15-IL-15RalphaS treatment generated potent antitumor activity in a liver metastatic murine HCC model (BNL cells), and significantly prolonged the survival time of treated animals. The antitumor effect depended mainly on NK cells, not on CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells, because AAV8/IL-15-IL-15RalphaS treatment greatly enhanced the cytolytic activity of hepatic NK cells and depletion of NK cells abrogated the therapeutic effect. Importantly, no apparent liver toxicity was observed during AAV8/IL-15-IL-15RalphaS treatment. Together, our data demonstrate that AAV8-delivered IL-15-IL-15RalphaS provides an effective and safe therapy against metastatic HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Ming Chang
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
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45
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Bessard A, Solé V, Bouchaud G, Quéméner A, Jacques Y. High antitumor activity of RLI, an interleukin-15 (IL-15)-IL-15 receptor alpha fusion protein, in metastatic melanoma and colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2009; 8:2736-45. [PMID: 19723883 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-09-0275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-15 has an important role in tumor immunosurveillance and has a contemplated use in tumor immunotherapy. We have previously engineered the fusion protein RLI, composed of the NH(2)-terminal (amino acids 1-77, sushi+) domain of IL-15 receptor alpha coupled via a linker to IL-15, and shown that it displayed far better efficacy than IL-15 in vitro. In this report, we investigated in vivo whether RLI would be a better alternative than IL-15 and IL-2 for cancer treatment using two distinct animal models. B16F10 mouse melanoma cells were injected in C57BL/6 mice either i.v. or intrasplenically for lung or liver metastasis, respectively. HCT-116 human colorectal cancer cells were injected in the cecum of nude mice. We show that RLI has a higher efficiency than IL-15 or IL-2 to reduce lung and liver metastasis and enhance survival in the mouse B16F10 melanoma model, a result that was associated with a higher half-life in vivo. We also found that the antitumoral effect of RLI was completely abolished by in vivo depletion of natural killer cells using anti-asialoGM1 antibody. Moreover, RLI was also efficient to reduce by 50% tumor growth and the progression of metastasis of human colon carcinoma cells in an orthotopic nude mouse model. The fusion protein RLI has revealed strong anticancer effect in two different cancer models overcoming the limited effect of IL-15 by increasing its bioavailability and efficiency. These findings hold significant importance for the use of RLI as a potential adjuvant/therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bessard
- Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale U892, Institut de Recherche Thérapeutique, 8 quai Moncousu, BP 70721, 44007 Nantes Cedex 1, France.
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46
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Zhu X, Marcus WD, Xu W, Lee HI, Han K, Egan JO, Yovandich JL, Rhode PR, Wong HC. Novel human interleukin-15 agonists. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 183:3598-607. [PMID: 19710453 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0901244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
IL-15 is an immunostimulatory cytokine trans-presented with the IL-15 receptor alpha-chain to the shared IL-2/IL-15Rbeta and common gamma-chains displayed on the surface of T cells and NK cells. To further define the functionally important regions of this cytokine, activity and binding studies were conducted on human IL-15 muteins generated by site-directed mutagenesis. Amino acid substitutions of the asparagine residue at position 72, which is located at the end of helix C, were found to provide both partial agonist and superagonist activity, with various nonconservative substitutions providing enhanced activity. Particularly, the N72D substitution provided a 4-5-fold increase in biological activity of the IL-15 mutein compared with the native molecule based on proliferation assays with cells bearing human IL-15Rbeta and common gamma-chains. The IL-15N72D mutein exhibited superagonist activity through improved binding ability to the human IL-15Rbeta-chain. However, the enhanced potency of IL-15N72D was not observed with cells expressing the mouse IL-15Ralpha-IL-15Rbeta-gamma(c) complex, suggesting that this effect is specific to the human IL-15 receptor. The enhanced biological activity of IL-15N72D was associated with more intense phosphorylation of Jak1 and Stat5 and better anti-apoptotic activity compared with the wild-type IL-15. IL-15N72D superagonist activity was also preserved when linked to a single-chain TCR domain to generate a tumor-specific fusion protein. Thus, the human IL-15 superagonist muteins and fusions may create opportunities to construct more efficacious immunotherapeutic agents with clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Zhu
- Altor BioScience Corporation, Miramar, FL 33025, USA
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47
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Abstract
As our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing natural killer (NK) cell activity increases, their potential in cancer immunotherapy is growing increasingly prominent. This review analyses the currently available preclinical and clinical data regarding NK cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches in cancer starting from a historical background and an overview of molecular mechanisms taking part in NK cell responses. The status of NK cells in cancer patients, currently investigated clinical applications such as in vivo modulation of NK cell activity, ex vivo purification/expansion and adoptive transfer as well as future possibilities such as genetic modifications are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Sutlu
- Division of Haematology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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48
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Yiang GT, Harn HJ, Yu YL, Hu SC, Hung YT, Hsieh CJ, Lin SZ, Wei CW. Immunotherapy: rAAV2 expressing interleukin-15 inhibits HeLa cell tumor growth in mice. J Biomed Sci 2009; 16:47. [PMID: 19422685 PMCID: PMC2687432 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-16-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2008] [Accepted: 05/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Human interleukin-15 (hIL15) has anti-tumor activities, but it is not convenient for tumor treatment because of its short half-life. A gene therapy for mouse lung cancer using an adenovirus vector expressing IL15 has been reported. However, adenovirus vector-mediated gene therapy can provoke cellular toxicity and inflammatory reactions. The recombinant adenovirus-associated vector 2 (rAAV2) is safer due to minimal cellular toxicity and immune response. In order to demonstrate that gene therapy can be used safely and successfully for human cancer treatment, the rAAV2 expressing hIL15 gene (rAAV2-hIL15) is applied for human cervical cancer, HeLa cell, in this study. This study successfully demonstrates that rAAV2-hIL15 can express IL15 with bioactivities in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our studies show that human cervical cancers are inhibited on animal model with rAAV2-hIL15 treatment and provide a safer and important reference for human cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giou-Teng Yiang
- Institute of Biomedical Nutrition, College of Medicine & Nursing, Hung Kuang University, Sha Lu, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Interleukin-15 combined with an anti-CD40 antibody provides enhanced therapeutic efficacy for murine models of colon cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:7513-8. [PMID: 19383782 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0902637106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
IL-15 has potential as an immunotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment because it is a critical factor for the proliferation and activation of natural killer (NK) and CD8(+) T cells. Administration of anti-CD40 antibodies has shown anti-tumor effects in vivo through a variety of mechanisms. Furthermore, activation of CD40 led to increased expression of IL-15 receptor-alpha by dendritic cells, an action that is critical for trans-presentation of IL-15 to NK and CD8(+) T cells. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of the combination regimen of murine IL-15 (mIL-15) with an agonistic anti-CD40 antibody (FGK4.5) in murine lung metastasis models involving CT26 and MC38, which are murine colon cancer cell lines syngeneic to BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice, respectively. Treatment with mIL-15 or the anti-CD40 antibody alone significantly prolonged survival of both CT26 and MC38 tumor-bearing mice compared with the mice in the PBS solution control group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, combination therapy with both mIL-15 and the anti-CD40 antibody provided greater therapeutic efficacy as demonstrated by prolonged survival of the mice compared with either mIL-15 or the anti-CD40 antibody-alone groups (P < 0.001). We found that NK cells isolated from the mice that received the combination regimen expressed increased levels of intracellular granzyme B and showed stronger cytotoxic activity on the target cells. The findings from this study provide the scientific basis for clinical trials using the combination regimen of IL-15 with an anti-CD40 antibody for the treatment of patients with cancer.
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Myxoma virus expressing interleukin-15 fails to cause lethal myxomatosis in European rabbits. J Virol 2009; 83:5933-8. [PMID: 19279088 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00204-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Myxoma virus (MYXV) is a poxvirus pathogenic only for European rabbits, but its permissiveness in human cancer cells gives it potential as an oncolytic virus. A recombinant MYXV expressing both the tdTomato red fluorescent protein and interleukin-15 (IL-15) (vMyx-IL-15-tdTr) was constructed. Cells infected with vMyx-IL-15-tdTr secreted bioactive IL-15 and had in vitro replication kinetics similar to that of wild-type MYXV. To determine the safety of this virus for future oncolytic studies, we tested its pathogenesis in European rabbits. In vivo, vMyx-IL-15-tdTr no longer causes lethal myxomatosis. Thus, ectopic IL-15 functions as an antiviral cytokine in vivo, and vMyx-IL-15-tdTr is a safe candidate for animal studies of oncolytic virotherapy.
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