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Ahmadi M, Abbasi R, Rezaie J. Tumor immune escape: extracellular vesicles roles and therapeutics application. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:9. [PMID: 38167133 PMCID: PMC10763406 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune escape, a process by which tumor cells evade immune surveillance, remains a challenge for cancer therapy. Tumor cells produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) that participate in immune escape by transferring bioactive molecules between cells. EVs refer to heterogeneous vesicles that participate in intercellular communication. EVs from tumor cells usually carry tumor antigens and have been considered a source of tumor antigens to induce anti-tumor immunity. However, evidence also suggests that these EVs can accelerate immune escape by carrying heat shock proteins (HSPs), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), etc. to immune cells, suppressing function and exhausting the immune cells pool. EVs are progressively being evaluated for therapeutic implementation in cancer therapies. EVs-based immunotherapies involve inhibiting EVs generation, using natural EVs, and harnessing engineering EVs. All approaches are associated with advantages and disadvantages. The EVs heterogeneity and diverse physicochemical properties are the main challenges to their clinical applications. SHORT CONCLUSION Although EVs are criminal; they can be useful for overcoming immune escape. This review discusses the latest knowledge on EVs population and sheds light on the function of tumor-derived EVs in immune escape. It also describes EVs-based immunotherapies with a focus on engineered EVs, followed by challenges that hinder the clinical translation of EVs that are essential to be addressed in future investigations. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ahmadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Biology, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Jafar Rezaie
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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2
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Federico M. The Limitations of Current T Cell-Driven Anticancer Immunotherapies Can Be Overcome with an Original Extracellular-Vesicle-Based Vaccine Strategy. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1847. [PMID: 38140250 PMCID: PMC10747787 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121847] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of tumors associated with defects in immune surveillance often involve the impairment of key functions of T lymphocytes. Therefore, several anticancer immunotherapies have focused on the induction/strengthening of the tumor-specific activity of T cells. In particular, strategies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells, and mRNA vaccines share a common goal of inducing/recovering an effective antitumor cytotoxic activity, often resulting in either exhausted or absent in patients' lymphocytes. In many instances, these approaches have been met with success, becoming part of current clinic protocols. However, the most practiced strategies sometimes also pay significant tolls in terms of adverse events, a lack of target specificity, tumor escape, and unsustainable costs. Hence, new antitumor immunotherapies facing at least some of these issues need to be explored. In this perspective article, the characteristics of a novel CD8+ T cell-specific anticancer vaccine strategy based on in vivo-engineered extracellular vesicles are described. How this approach can be exploited to overcome at least some of the limitations of current antitumor immunotherapies is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
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3
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Zhang M, Hu S, Liu L, Dang P, Liu Y, Sun Z, Qiao B, Wang C. Engineered exosomes from different sources for cancer-targeted therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:124. [PMID: 36922504 PMCID: PMC10017761 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01382-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosome is a subgroup of extracellular vesicles, which has been serving as an efficient therapeutic tool for various diseases. Engineered exosomes are the sort of exosomes modified with surface decoration and internal therapeutic molecules. After appropriate modification, engineered exosomes are able to deliver antitumor drugs to tumor sites efficiently and precisely with fewer treatment-related adverse effects. However, there still exist many challenges for the clinical translation of engineered exosomes. For instance, what sources and modification strategies could endow exosomes with the most efficient antitumor activity is still poorly understood. Additionally, how to choose appropriately engineered exosomes in different antitumor therapies is another unresolved problem. In this review, we summarized the characteristics of engineered exosomes, especially the spatial and temporal properties. Additionally, we concluded the recent advances in engineered exosomes in the cancer fields, including the sources, isolation technologies, modification strategies, and labeling and imaging methods of engineered exosomes. Furthermore, the applications of engineered exosomes in different antitumor therapies were summarized, such as photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Consequently, the above provides the cancer researchers in this community with the latest ideas on engineered exosome modification and new direction of new drug development, which is prospective to accelerate the clinical translation of engineered exosomes for cancer-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghui Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Shengyun Hu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.,Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Pengyuan Dang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Zhenqiang Sun
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China. .,Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
| | - Bingbing Qiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
| | - Chengzeng Wang
- Henan Institute of Interconnected Intelligent Health Management, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China. .,Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
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4
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Zhang K, Liu L, Shi K, Zhang K, Zheng C, Jin Y. Extracellular Vesicles for Immunomodulation in Tissue Regeneration. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2022; 28:393-404. [PMID: 35856810 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2022.0000059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A large number of people suffer from tissue injury and defect worldwide, which constitutes a critical challenge for regenerative medicine. During the complicated process of tissue repair and regeneration, immune response that involves many kinds of immune cells often concurrently exists and plays a significant role, thus providing a promising target for the development of therapeutic strategies. As a critical player in cell-cell communication, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a cluster of nano-sized vesicles of different categories, which have been reported to possess favorable immunoregulatory potential, and participate in the process of tissue repair and regeneration. Furthermore, EVs can be engineered with genetic or chemical strategies for optimized performance as therapeutic mediators. Here, we provide an outline on the biology of EVs as well as the role of EVs in immune regulation, focusing on exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic vesicles. We further summarize the applications of EV-based therapies for tissue regeneration, with particular emphasis on the modulation of immune system. Also, we have discussed the construction strategies of engineered EVs and the immunomodulatory capability of engineered EVs as well as their therapeutic potential in tissue repair. This review will highlight the outstanding potential of EV-based therapeutic strategies for tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaichao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ke Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chenxi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Center for Tissue Engineering, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Xi'an, China
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5
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Activation of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Human CTLs by Extracellular Vesicles Engineered with the N Viral Protein. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071060. [PMID: 35891224 PMCID: PMC9318727 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We propose an innovative anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune strategy based on extracellular vesicles (EVs) inducing an anti-SARS-CoV-2 N CD8+ T cytotoxic lymphocyte (CTL) immune response. We previously reported that the SARS-CoV-2 N protein can be uploaded at high levels in EVs upon fusion with Nefmut, i.e., a biologically inactive HIV-1 Nef mutant incorporating into EVs at quite high levels. Here, we analyze the immunogenic properties in human cells of EVs engineered with SARS-CoV-2 N fused at the C-terminus of either Nefmut or a deletion mutant of Nefmut referred to as NefmutPL. The analysis of in vitro-produced EVs has supported the uploading of N protein when fused with truncated Nefmut. Mice injected with DNA vectors expressed each fusion protein developed robust SARS-CoV-2 N-specific CD8+ T cell immune responses. When ex vivo human dendritic cells were challenged with EVs engineered with either fusion products, the induction of a robust N-specific CTL activity, as evaluated by both CD107a and trogocytosis assays, was observed. Through these data we achieved the proof-of-principle that engineered EVs can be instrumental to elicit anti-SARS-CoV-2 CTL immune response in human cells. This achievement represents a mandatory step towards the upcoming experimentations in pre-clinical models focused on intranasal administration of N-engineered EVs.
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6
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Hu X, Zhou W, Pi R, Zhao X, Wang W. Genetically modified cancer vaccines: Current status and future prospects. Med Res Rev 2022; 42:1492-1517. [PMID: 35235212 DOI: 10.1002/med.21882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines can stimulate the immune system to protect individuals from infectious diseases. Moreover, vaccines have also been applied to the prevention and treatment of cancers. Due to advances in genetic engineering technology, cancer vaccines could be genetically modified to increase antitumor efficacy. Various genes could be inserted into cells to boost the immune response, such as cytokines, T cell costimulatory molecules, tumor-associated antigens, and tumor-specific antigens. Genetically modified cancer vaccines utilize innate and adaptive immune responses to induce durable antineoplastic capacity and prevent the recurrence. This review will discuss the major approaches used to develop genetically modified cancer vaccines and explore recent advances to increase the understanding of engineered cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Hu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Weilin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Ruyu Pi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
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7
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Behravan N, Zahedipour F, Jaafari MR, Johnston TP, Sahebkar A. Lipid-based nanoparticulate delivery systems for HER2-positive breast cancer immunotherapy. Life Sci 2022; 291:120294. [PMID: 34998838 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lipid-based nanoparticulate delivery platforms such as liposomes help overcome cell and tissue barriers and allow prolonged therapeutic plasma drug concentrations, simultaneous targeting of tumor tissue, and increased bioavailability of numerous drugs used for treatment of cancer. The human epidermal growth factor receptor, HER2, is an important player in the pathogenesis of breast cancer and is considered a potential cancer biomarker for the design of immunotherapeutics. HER2-positive breast cancer is found in up to 30% of breast cancer patients. Currently, a variety of lipid nanoparticulate systems are being evaluated in preclinical settings and in clinical trials for targeting HER2-positive breast cancer. Advances in functionalized anti-HER2 lipid nanoparticulates have demonstrated promise and may lead to the development of new nano-immunotherapy protocols against HER2 positive breast cancer. Here we present a review of the most up-to-date literature, including our own research, on the use of lipid nanoparticulate carriers in immunotherapy of HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Behravan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Fatemeh Zahedipour
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Thomas P Johnston
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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8
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Strong SARS-CoV-2 N-Specific CD8+ T Immunity Induced by Engineered Extracellular Vesicles Associates with Protection from Lethal Infection in Mice. Viruses 2022; 14:v14020329. [PMID: 35215922 PMCID: PMC8879411 DOI: 10.3390/v14020329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cell immunity is expected to counteract viral variants in both efficient and durable ways. We recently described a way to induce a potent SARS-CoV-2 CD8+ T immune response through the generation of engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) emerging from muscle cells. This method relies on intramuscular injection of DNA vectors expressing different SARS-CoV-2 antigens fused at their N-terminus with the Nefmut protein, i.e., a very efficient EV-anchoring protein. However, quality, tissue distribution, and efficacy of these SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cells remained uninvestigated. To fill the gaps, antigen-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes induced by the immunization through the Nefmut-based method were characterized in terms of their polyfunctionality and localization at lung airways, i.e., the primary targets of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found that injection of vectors expressing Nefmut/S1 and Nefmut/N generated polyfunctional CD8+ T lymphocytes in both spleens and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs). When immunized mice were infected with 4.4 lethal doses of 50% of SARS-CoV-2, all S1-immunized mice succumbed, whereas those developing the highest percentages of N-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes resisted the lethal challenge. We also provide evidence that the N-specific immunization coupled with the development of antigen-specific CD8+ T-resident memory cells in lungs, supporting the idea that the Nefmut-based immunization can confer a long-lasting, lung-specific immune memory. In view of the limitations of current anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in terms of antibody waning and efficiency against variants, our CD8+ T cell-based platform could be considered for a new combination prophylactic strategy.
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9
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Chiozzini C, Ridolfi B, Federico M. Extracellular Vesicles and Their Use as Vehicles of Immunogens. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2504:177-198. [PMID: 35467287 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2341-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Healthy cells constitutively release lipid bilayered vesicles of different sizes and recognizing different biogenesis, collectively referred to as extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs can be distinguished in exosomes and microvesicles. Biological and biomedical research on EVs is an emerging field that is rapidly growing. Many EV features including biogenesis, cell uptake, and functions still require unambiguous elucidation. Nevertheless, it has been well established that EVs are involved in communication among cells, tissues, and organs under both healthy and disease conditions by virtue of their ability to deliver macromolecules to target cells. Here, we summarize most recent findings regarding biogenesis, structure, and functions of both exosomes and microvesicles. In addition, the use of EVs as delivery tools to induce CD8+ T cell immunity is addressed compared to current designs exploiting enveloped viral vectors and virus-like particles. Finally, we describe a both safe and original approach conceived for the induction of strong CTL immunity against antigens uploaded in EVs constitutively released by muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Chiozzini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy.
| | - Barbara Ridolfi
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
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10
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Abhange K, Makler A, Wen Y, Ramnauth N, Mao W, Asghar W, Wan Y. Small extracellular vesicles in cancer. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:3705-3743. [PMID: 33898874 PMCID: PMC8056276 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EV) are lipid-bilayer enclosed vesicles in submicron size that are released from cells. A variety of molecules, including proteins, DNA fragments, RNAs, lipids, and metabolites can be selectively encapsulated into EVs and delivered to nearby and distant recipient cells. In tumors, through such intercellular communication, EVs can regulate initiation, growth, metastasis and invasion of tumors. Recent studies have found that EVs exhibit specific expression patterns which mimic the parental cell, providing a fingerprint for early cancer diagnosis and prognosis as well as monitoring responses to treatment. Accordingly, various EV isolation and detection technologies have been developed for research and diagnostic purposes. Moreover, natural and engineered EVs have also been used as drug delivery nanocarriers, cancer vaccines, cell surface modulators, therapeutic agents and therapeutic targets. Overall, EVs are under intense investigation as they hold promise for pathophysiological and translational discoveries. This comprehensive review examines the latest EV research trends over the last five years, encompassing their roles in cancer pathophysiology, diagnostics and therapeutics. This review aims to examine the full spectrum of tumor-EV studies and provide a comprehensive foundation to enhance the field. The topics which are discussed and scrutinized in this review encompass isolation techniques and how these issues need to be overcome for EV-based diagnostics, EVs and their roles in cancer biology, biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring, EVs as vaccines, therapeutic targets, and EVs as drug delivery systems. We will also examine the challenges involved in EV research and promote a framework for catalyzing scientific discovery and innovation for tumor-EV-focused research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Abhange
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
| | - Amy Makler
- Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Yi Wen
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
| | - Natasha Ramnauth
- Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Wenjun Mao
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214023, China
| | - Waseem Asghar
- Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Yuan Wan
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
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11
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Virus-Induced CD8 + T-Cell Immunity and Its Exploitation to Contain the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9080922. [PMID: 34452047 PMCID: PMC8402519 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9080922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The current battle against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-Coronavirus-2 benefits from the worldwide distribution of different vaccine formulations. All anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in use are conceived to induce anti-Spike neutralizing antibodies. However, this strategy still has unresolved issues, the most relevant of which are: (i) the resistance to neutralizing antibodies of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and (ii) the waning of neutralizing antibodies. On the other hand, both pre-clinical evidence and clinical evidence support the idea that the immunity sustained by antigen-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes can complement and also surrogate the antiviral humoral immunity. As a distinctive feature, anti-SARS-CoV-2 CD8+ T-driven immunity maintains its efficacy even in the presence of viral protein mutations. In addition, on the basis of data obtained in survivors of the SARS-CoV epidemic, this immunity is expected to last for several years. In this review, both the mechanisms and role of CD8+ T-cell immunity in viral infections, particularly those induced by SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, are analyzed. Moreover, a CD8+ T-cell-based vaccine platform relying on in vivo engineered extracellular vesicles is described. When applied to SARS-CoV-2, this strategy was proven to induce a strong immunogenicity, holding great promise for its translation into the clinic.
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12
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AlHumaidi RB, Fayed B, Sharif SI, Noreddin A, Soliman SSM. Role of Exosomes in Breast Cancer Management: Evidence-Based Review. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:666-675. [PMID: 34077346 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210601115707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The field of cancer research has massively grown in recent decades, leading to a better understanding of the underlying causes and greatly improved the therapeutic approaches. Breast cancer (BC) is the third leading cause of mortality among all cancers and the most common malignant disease in women worldwide, representing one in four cancers in women. The crosstalk between cancer cells and the surrounding microenvironment is crucial for tumor progression and metastatic process. Tumor cells communicate not only through classical paracrine signaling mechanisms, including cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, but also through"exosomes". Exosomes are nano-vesicles that are released by various types of cells. Over the last decade, researchers have been attracted to the role of exosomes in breast cancer. It has been proven that exosomes influence major tumor-related pathways, including invasion, migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and drug resistance. Additionally, exosomes play important roles in clinical applications. Several studies have demonstrated the potential applications of exosomes in cancer therapy and diagnosis. Furthermore, exosomes have been engineered to function as nano-delivery systems of chemotherapeutic drugs. They can also be designed as vaccines to trigger the patient's immune system. This review discusses the recent progress regarding the use of exosomes as drug delivery systems, therapeutic agents, biomarkers, and vaccines against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razan B AlHumaidi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bahgat Fayed
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Suleiman I Sharif
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayman Noreddin
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameh S M Soliman
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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13
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Long-Term Antitumor CD8 + T Cell Immunity Induced by Endogenously Engineered Extracellular Vesicles. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092263. [PMID: 34066801 PMCID: PMC8125873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The induction of an effective immune response against tumor cells is of a great benefit in the battle against cancers. We recently characterized a novel, safe, and cost-effective strategy to induce an efficient CD8+ T cell immune response against potentially whatever antigen. This technique is based on in vivo engineering of exosomes/extracellular vesicles (EVs), i.e., nanovesicles constitutively released by all healthy cells. Immunogenic EVs are generated by intramuscular injection of a DNA vector expressing an EV-anchoring protein fused with the antigen of interest. In this paper, we applied our vaccine platform to counteract the growth of tumors expressing antigens of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). We demonstrated that this method is instrumental in curing mice already developing HPV-related tumors. In addition, cured mice were shown to resist a second tumor cell implantation. These results could be of relevance for a possible translation into the clinic of our technology. Abstract We developed an innovative method to induce antigen-specific CD8+ T cytotoxic lymphocyte (CTL) immunity based on in vivo engineering of extracellular vesicles (EVs). This approach employs a DNA vector expressing a mutated HIV-1 Nef protein (Nefmut) deprived of the anti-cellular effects typical of the wild-type isoform, meanwhile showing an unusual efficiency of incorporation into EVs. This function persists even when foreign antigens are fused to its C-terminus. In this way, Nefmut traffics large amounts of antigens fused to it into EVs spontaneously released by the recipient cells. We previously provided evidence that mice injected with a DNA vector expressing the Nefmut/HPV16-E7 fusion protein developed an E7-specific CTL immune response as detected 2 weeks after the second immunization. Here, we extended and optimized the anti-HPV16 CD8+ T cell immune response induced by the endogenously engineered EVs, and evaluated the therapeutic antitumor efficacy over time. We found that the co-injection of DNA vectors expressing Nefmut fused with E6 and E7 generated a stronger anti-HPV16 immune response compared to that observed in mice injected with the single vectors. When HPV16-E6 and -E7 co-expressing tumor cells were implanted before immunization, all mice survived at day 44, whereas no mice injected with either void or Nefmut-expressing vectors survived until day 32 after tumor implantation. A substantial part of immunized mice (7 out of 12) cleared the tumor. When the cured mice were re-challenged with a second tumor cell implantation, none of them developed tumors. Both E6- and E7-specific CD8+ T immunities were still detectable at the end of the observation time. We concluded that the immunity elicited by engineered EVs, besides counteracting and curing already developed tumors, was strong enough to guarantee the resistance to additional tumor attacks. These results can be of relevance for the therapy of both metastatic and relapsing tumors.
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Chiozzini C, Manfredi F, Ferrantelli F, Leone P, Giovannelli A, Olivetta E, Federico M. The C-Terminal Domain of Nef mut Is Dispensable for the CD8 + T Cell Immunogenicity of In Vivo Engineered Extracellular Vesicles. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040373. [PMID: 33921215 PMCID: PMC8068889 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intramuscular injection of DNA vectors expressing the extracellular vesicle (EV)-anchoring protein Nefmut fused at its C-terminus to viral and tumor antigens elicit a potent, effective, and anti-tolerogenic CD8+ T cell immunity against the heterologous antigen. The immune response is induced through the production of EVs incorporating Nefmut-derivatives released by muscle cells. In the perspective of a possible translation into the clinic of the Nefmut-based vaccine platform, we aimed at increasing its safety profile by identifying the minimal part of Nefmut retaining the EV-anchoring protein property. We found that a C-terminal deletion of 29-amino acids did not affect the ability of Nefmut to associate with EVs. The EV-anchoring function was also preserved when antigens from both HPV16 (i.e., E6 and E7) and SARS-CoV-2 (i.e., S1 and S2) were fused to its C-terminus. Most important, the Nefmut C-terminal deletion did not affect levels, quality, and diffusion at distal sites of the antigen-specific CD8+ T immunity. We concluded that the C-terminal Nefmut truncation does not influence stability, EV-anchoring, and CD8+ T cell immunogenicity of the fused antigen. Hence, the C-terminal deleted Nefmut may represent a safer alternative to the full-length isoform for vaccines in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Chiozzini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
| | - Francesco Manfredi
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
| | - Flavia Ferrantelli
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
| | - Andrea Giovannelli
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Olivetta
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (F.M.); (F.F.); (P.L.); (E.O.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4990-6016; Fax: +39-06-49903210
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Ferrantelli F, Chiozzini C, Manfredi F, Giovannelli A, Leone P, Federico M. Simultaneous CD8 + T-Cell Immune Response against SARS-Cov-2 S, M, and N Induced by Endogenously Engineered Extracellular Vesicles in Both Spleen and Lungs. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:240. [PMID: 33801926 PMCID: PMC7999804 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Most advanced vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 are designed to induce antibodies against spike (S) protein. Differently, we developed an original strategy to induce CD8+ T cytotoxic lymphocyte (CTL) immunity based on in vivo engineering of extracellular vesicles (EVs). This is a new vaccination approach based on intramuscular injection of DNA expression vectors coding for a biologically inactive HIV-1 Nef protein (Nefmut) with an unusually high efficiency of incorporation into EVs, even when foreign polypeptides are fused to its C-terminus. Nanovesicles containing Nefmut-fused antigens released by muscle cells can freely circulate into the body and are internalized by antigen-presenting cells. Therefore, EV-associated antigens can be cross-presented to prime antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells. To apply this technology to a strategy of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, we designed DNA vectors expressing the products of fusion between Nefmut and different viral antigens, namely N- and C-terminal moieties of S (referred to as S1 and S2), M, and N. We provided evidence that all fusion products are efficiently uploaded in EVs. When the respective DNA vectors were injected in mice, a strong antigen-specific CD8+ T cell immunity became detectable in spleens and, most important, in lung airways. Co-injection of DNA vectors expressing the diverse SARS-CoV-2 antigens resulted in additive immune responses in both spleen and lungs. Hence, DNA vectors expressing Nefmut-based fusion proteins can be proposed for new anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ferrantelli
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (C.C.); (F.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Chiara Chiozzini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (C.C.); (F.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Francesco Manfredi
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (C.C.); (F.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Andrea Giovannelli
- National Center for Animal Experimentation and Welfare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (C.C.); (F.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.F.); (C.C.); (F.M.); (P.L.)
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Influenza virus neuraminidase regulates host CD8 + T-cell response in mice. Commun Biol 2020; 3:748. [PMID: 33293641 PMCID: PMC7722854 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01486-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV)-specific CD8+ T-cell response was shown to provide protection against pandemic and seasonal influenza infections. However, the response was often relatively weak and the mechanism was unclear. Here, we show that the composition of IAV released from infected cells is regulated by the neuraminidase (NA) activity and the cells infected by NA-defective virus cause intracellular viral protein accumulation and cell death. In addition, after uptake of NA-defective viruses by dendritic cells (DCs), an expression of the major histocompatibility complex class I is induced to activate IAV-specific CD8+ T-cell response. When mice were infected by NA-defective IAV, a CD8+ T-cell response to the highly conserved viral antigens including PB1, NP, HA, M1, M2 and NS1 was observed along with the increasing expression of IL10, IL12 and IL27. Vaccination of mice with NA-defective H1N1 A/WSN/33 induced a strong IAV-specific CD8+ T cell response against H1N1, H3N2 and H5N1. This study reveals the role of NA in the IAV-specific CD8+ T-cell response and virion assembly process, and provides an alternative direction toward the development of universal influenza vaccines.
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Wu P, Zhang B, Ocansey DKW, Xu W, Qian H. Extracellular vesicles: A bright star of nanomedicine. Biomaterials 2020; 269:120467. [PMID: 33189359 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have unique structural, compositional, and morphological characteristics as well as predominant physiochemical stability and biocompatibility properties. They play a crucial role in pathophysiological regulation, and also have broad prospects for clinical application in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of disease, and tissue regeneration and repair. Herein, the biosynthesis and physiological functions and current methods for separation and identification of EVs are summarized. Specifically, engineered EVs may be used to enhance targeted therapy in cancer and repair damaged tissues, and they may be developed as an individualized imaging diagnostic reagent, among other potential applications. We will focus on reviewing recent studies on engineered EVs in which alterations enhanced their therapeutic capability or diagnostic imaging potential via physical, chemical, and biological modification approaches. This review will clarify the superior biological functions and powerful therapeutic potential of EVs, particularly with regard to new designs based on EVs and their utilization in a new generation of nanomedicine diagnosis and treatment platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Wu
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosomes Foundation and Transformation Application, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, PR China
| | - Dickson Kofi Wiredu Ocansey
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosomes Foundation and Transformation Application, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wenrong Xu
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosomes Foundation and Transformation Application, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Jiangsu University, 279 Jingang Road, Suzhou, 215600, Jiangsu, PR China.
| | - Hui Qian
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosomes Foundation and Transformation Application, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, PR China; Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Jiangsu University, 279 Jingang Road, Suzhou, 215600, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Donoso-Quezada J, Ayala-Mar S, González-Valdez J. State-of-the-art exosome loading and functionalization techniques for enhanced therapeutics: a review. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2020; 40:804-820. [DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2020.1785385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sergio Ayala-Mar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science, Monterrey, Mexico
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N-Terminal Fatty Acids of NEF MUT Are Required for the CD8 + T-Cell Immunogenicity of In Vivo Engineered Extracellular Vesicles. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8020243. [PMID: 32456079 PMCID: PMC7350016 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently described a cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocyte (CTL) vaccine platform based on the intramuscular (i.m.) injection of DNA eukaryotic vectors expressing antigens of interest fused at the C-terminus of HIV-1 Nefmut, i.e., a functionally defective mutant that is incorporated at quite high levels into exosomes/extracellular vesicles (EVs). This system has been proven to elicit strong CTL immunity against a plethora of both viral and tumor antigens, as well as inhibit both transplantable and orthotopic tumors in mice. However, a number of open issues remain regarding the underlying mechanism. Here we provide evidence that hindering the uploading into EVs of Nefmut-derived products by removing the Nefmut N-terminal fatty acids leads to a dramatic reduction of the downstream antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell activation after i.m. injection of DNA vectors in mice. This result formally demonstrates that the generation of engineered EVs is part of the mechanism underlying the in vivo induced CD8+ T-cell immunogenicity. Gaining new insights on the EV-based vaccine platform can be relevant in view of its possible translation into the clinic to counteract both chronic and acute infections as well as tumors.
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Markov O, Oshchepkova A, Mironova N. Immunotherapy Based on Dendritic Cell-Targeted/-Derived Extracellular Vesicles-A Novel Strategy for Enhancement of the Anti-tumor Immune Response. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1152. [PMID: 31680949 PMCID: PMC6798004 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based anti-tumor vaccines have great potential for the treatment of cancer. To date, a large number of clinical trials involving DC-based vaccines have been conducted with a view to treating tumors of different histological origins. However, DC-based vaccines had several drawbacks, including problems with targeted delivery of tumor antigens to DCs and prolong storage of cellular vaccines. Therefore, the development of other immunotherapeutic approaches capable of enhancing the immunogenicity of existing DC-based vaccines or directly triggering anti-tumor immune responses is of great interest. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released by almost all types of eukaryotic cells for paracrine signaling. EVs can interact with target cells and change their functional activity by delivering different signaling molecules including mRNA, non-coding RNA, proteins, and lipids. EVs have potential benefits as natural vectors for the delivery of RNA and other therapeutic molecules targeted to DCs, T-lymphocytes, and tumor cells; therefore, EVs are a promising entity for the development of novel cell-free anti-tumor vaccines that may be a favourable alternative to DC-based vaccines. In the present review, we discuss the anti-tumor potential of EVs derived from DCs, tumors, and other cells. Methods of EV isolation are systematized, and key molecules carried by EVs that are necessary for the activation of a DC-mediated anti-tumor immune response are analyzed with a focus on the RNA component of EVs. Characteristics of anti-tumor immune responses induced by EVs in vitro and in vivo are reviewed. Finally, perspectives and challenges with the use of EVs for the development of anti-tumor cell-free vaccines are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Markov
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
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21
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Han W, Duan Z. Roles of exosomes in liver metastases: Novel diagnosis and treatment choices. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:21588-21600. [PMID: 31093975 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Tumors tend to metastasize to the liver. Premetastatic niche formation is a vital step in liver metastasis. Tumor-derived exosomes can influence premetastatic niche formation from three aspects: vascular leakiness and angiogenesis, recruitment of nonresident cells, and changes in local resident cells. Exosomes from other tissues, such as mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and engineered exosomes, also have therapeutic potential, but further research on these exosomes is required. Based on the mechanism of premetastatic niche formation, we summarize the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of exosomes in inhibiting liver metastases in this review in an attempt to provide new avenues for the prevention and treatment of liver metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Han
- Difficult & Complicated Liver Diseases and Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Liver Failure, Artificial Liver Treatment and Research, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Difficult & Complicated Liver Diseases and Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Liver Failure, Artificial Liver Treatment and Research, Beijing, China
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22
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Mitochondrial-Derived Vesicles as Candidate Biomarkers in Parkinson's Disease: Rationale, Design and Methods of the EXosomes in PArkiNson Disease (EXPAND) Study. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102373. [PMID: 31091653 PMCID: PMC6566801 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigro-striatal system is a major trait of Parkinson’s disease (PD), manifesting clinically as motor and non-motor symptoms. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are alleged pathogenic mechanisms underlying aggregation of misfolded α-synuclein that in turn triggers dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Peripheral processes, including inflammation, may precede and contribute to neurodegeneration. Whether mitochondrial dyshomeostasis in the central nervous system and systemic inflammation are linked to one another in PD is presently unclear. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are delivery systems through which cells can communicate or unload noxious materials. EV trafficking also participates in mitochondrial quality control (MQC) by generating mitochondrial-derived vesicles to dispose damaged organelles. Disruption of MQC coupled with abnormal EV secretion may play a role in the pathogenesis of PD. Furthermore, due to its bacterial ancestry, circulating mitochondrial DNA can elicit an inflammatory response. Therefore, purification and characterisation of molecules packaged in, and secreted through, small EVs (sEVs)/exosomes in body fluids may provide meaningful insights into the association between mitochondrial dysfunction and systemic inflammation in PD. The EXosomes in PArkiNson Disease (EXPAND) study was designed to characterise the cargo of sEVs/exosomes isolated from the serum of PD patients and to identify candidate biomarkers for PD.
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Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Aging: Insights from the Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040805. [PMID: 30781825 PMCID: PMC6412692 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The progressive decline of cell function and integrity, manifesting clinically as increased vulnerability to adverse outcomes and death, is core to biological aging. Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, altered intercellular communication (including chronic low-grade inflammation), genomic instability, telomere attrition, loss of proteostasis, altered nutrient sensing, epigenetic alterations, and stem cell exhaustion have been proposed as hallmarks of aging. These “aging pillars” are not mutually exclusive, making the matter intricate and leaving numerous unanswered questions. The characterization of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) has recently allowed specific secretory phenotypes associated with aging to be identified. As such, EVs may serve as novel biomarkers for capturing the complexity of aging. Besides the mitochondrial–lysosomal axis, EV trafficking has been proposed as an additional layer in mitochondrial quality control. Indeed, disruption of the mitochondrial–lysosomal axis coupled with abnormal EV secretion may play a role in the pathogenesis of aging and several disease conditions. Here, we discuss (1) the mechanisms of EV generation; (2) the relationship between the mitochondrial–lysosomal axis and EV trafficking in the setting of mitochondrial quality control; and (3) the prospect of using EVs as aging biomarkers and as delivery systems for therapeutics against age-related conditions.
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Di Bonito P, Accardi L, Galati L, Ferrantelli F, Federico M. Anti-Cancer Vaccine for HPV-Associated Neoplasms: Focus on a Therapeutic HPV Vaccine Based on a Novel Tumor Antigen Delivery Method Using Endogenously Engineered Exosomes. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E138. [PMID: 30682811 PMCID: PMC6406600 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Some human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes are universally recognized as major etiological agents not only of ano-genital tumors but also of head and neck cancers, which show increasing incidence. The evaluation of current and future therapeutic approaches against HPV-induced tumors is a global health priority, despite an effective prophylactic vaccine against 7 of the 12 genotypes involved in the etiology of tumors being currently available. In this review, we present the main anti-HPV therapeutic approaches in clinical experimentation, with a focus on a novel tumor antigen delivery method using engineered exosomes, that we recently developed. Our system allows the induction of an efficient unrestricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) immune response against the HPV16-E7 tumor-associated antigen, with the formation of endogenously engineered exosomes, i.e., nanovesicles spontaneously released by all cell types. Immunogenic exosomes are uploaded with HPV16-E7 due to the fusion with a unique exosome-anchoring protein referred to as Nefmut. Intramuscular injection of a DNA vector expressing the fusion protein generates exosomes sufficiently immunogenic to elicit a potent anti-16E7 CTL immune response. The approach is described here and the advantages over other existing methodologies are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Viral Hepatitis, Oncoviruses and Retroviruses (EVOR) unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Viral Hepatitis, Oncoviruses and Retroviruses (EVOR) unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Galati
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Viral Hepatitis, Oncoviruses and Retroviruses (EVOR) unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Flavia Ferrantelli
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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25
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Ferrantelli F, Manfredi F, Chiozzini C, Anticoli S, Olivetta E, Arenaccio C, Federico M. DNA Vectors Generating Engineered Exosomes Potential CTL Vaccine Candidates Against AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Tumors. Mol Biotechnol 2018; 60:773-782. [PMID: 30167966 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-018-0114-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells constitutively produce nanovesicles of 50-150 nm of diameter, referred to as exosomes, upon release of the contents of multivesicular bodies (MVBs). We recently characterized a novel, exosome-based way to induce cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) immunization against full-length antigens. It is based on DNA vectors expressing products of fusion between the exosome-anchoring protein Nef mutant (Nefmut) with the antigen of interest. The strong efficiency of Nefmut to accumulate in MVBs results in the production of exosomes incorporating huge amounts of the desired antigen. When translated in animals, the injection of Nefmut-based DNA vectors generates engineered exosomes whose internalization in antigen-presenting cells induces cross-priming and antigen-specific CTL immunity. Here, we describe the molecular strategies we followed to produce DNA vectors aimed at generating immunogenic exosomes potentially useful to elicit a CTL immune response against antigens expressed by the etiologic agents of major chronic viral infections, i.e., HIV-1, HBV, and the novel tumor-associated antigen HOXB7. Unique methods intended to counteract intrinsic RNA instability and nuclear localization of the antigens have been developed. The success we met with the production of these engineered exosomes opens the way towards pre-clinic experimentations devoted to the optimization of new vaccine candidates against major infectious and tumor pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ferrantelli
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Manfredi
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Chiozzini
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Anticoli
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Olivetta
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Arenaccio
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Federico
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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