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Pathania AS. Immune Microenvironment in Childhood Cancers: Characteristics and Therapeutic Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2201. [PMID: 38927907 PMCID: PMC11201451 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment is pivotal in cancer initiation, advancement, and regulation. Its molecular and cellular composition is critical throughout the disease, as it can influence the balance between suppressive and cytotoxic immune responses within the tumor's vicinity. Studies on the tumor immune microenvironment have enriched our understanding of the intricate interplay between tumors and their immunological surroundings in various human cancers. These studies illuminate the role of significant components of the immune microenvironment, which have not been extensively explored in pediatric tumors before and may influence the responsiveness or resistance to therapeutic agents. Our deepening understanding of the pediatric tumor immune microenvironment is helping to overcome challenges related to the effectiveness of existing therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapies. Although in the early stages, targeted therapies that modulate the tumor immune microenvironment of pediatric solid tumors hold promise for improved outcomes. Focusing on various aspects of tumor immune biology in pediatric patients presents a therapeutic opportunity that could improve treatment outcomes. This review offers a comprehensive examination of recent literature concerning profiling the immune microenvironment in various pediatric tumors. It seeks to condense research findings on characterizing the immune microenvironment in pediatric tumors and its impact on tumor development, metastasis, and response to therapeutic modalities. It covers the immune microenvironment's role in tumor development, interactions with tumor cells, and its impact on the tumor's response to immunotherapy. The review also discusses challenges targeting the immune microenvironment for pediatric cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup Singh Pathania
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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2
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Gorczynski R. Translation of Data from Animal Models of Cancer to Immunotherapy of Breast Cancer and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:292. [PMID: 38540350 PMCID: PMC10970502 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030292] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The field of clinical oncology has been revolutionized over the past decade with the introduction of many new immunotherapies the existence of which have depended to a large extent on experimentation with both in vitro analysis and the use of various animal models, including gene-modified mice. The discussion below will review my own laboratory's studies, along with those of others in the field, on cancer immunotherapy. Our own studies have predominantly dwelt on two models of malignancy, namely a solid tumor model (breast cancer) and lymphoma. The data from our own laboratory, and that of other scientists, highlights the novel information so obtained, and the evidence that application of such information has already had an impact on immunotherapy of human oncologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Gorczynski
- Institute of Medical Science, Department of Immunology and Surgery, University of Toronto, C/O 429 Drewry Avenue, Toronto, ON M2R 2K6, Canada
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3
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Moon SY, Han M, Ryu G, Shin SA, Lee JH, Lee CS. Emerging Immune Checkpoint Molecules on Cancer Cells: CD24 and CD200. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15072. [PMID: 37894750 PMCID: PMC10606340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy strategies are based on the utilization of immune checkpoint inhibitors to instigate an antitumor immune response. The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade, directed at adaptive immune checkpoints, has been demonstrated in select cancer types. However, only a limited subset of patients has exhibited definitive outcomes characterized by a sustained response after discontinuation of therapy. Recent investigations have highlighted the significance of immune checkpoint molecules that are overexpressed in cancer cells and inhibit myeloid lineage immune cells within a tumor microenvironment. These checkpoints are identified as potential targets for anticancer immune responses. Notably, the immune checkpoint molecules CD24 and CD200 have garnered attention owing to their involvement in tumor immune evasion. CD24 and CD200 are overexpressed across diverse cancer types and serve as signaling checkpoints by engaging their respective receptors, Siglec-10 and CD200 receptor, which are expressed on tumor-associated myeloid cells. In this review, we summarized and discussed the latest advancements and insights into CD24 and CD200 as emergent immune checkpoint moieties, further delving into their therapeutic potentials for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Young Moon
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.M.); (M.H.); (G.R.); (S.-A.S.)
| | - Minjoo Han
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.M.); (M.H.); (G.R.); (S.-A.S.)
| | - Gyoungah Ryu
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.M.); (M.H.); (G.R.); (S.-A.S.)
| | - Seong-Ah Shin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.M.); (M.H.); (G.R.); (S.-A.S.)
| | - Jun Hyuck Lee
- Research Unit of Cryogenic Novel Material, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon 21990, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Polar Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Incheon 21990, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Sup Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.M.); (M.H.); (G.R.); (S.-A.S.)
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4
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Mou J, Zheng W, Wei D, Li D, Fan R, Tang Q. CD200-CD200R affects cisplatin and paclitaxel sensitivity by regulating cathepsin K-mediated p65 NF-κB signaling in cervical cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19220. [PMID: 37654464 PMCID: PMC10465862 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CD200-CD200R plays a critical role in regulating the human tumor microenvironment, but its role in cervical cancer remains unclear. Methods A total of 62 paraffin blocks of tumor tissues were collected from cervical cancer patients. Expression of CD200 and cathepsin K (CTSK) in cancer tissues and para-cancerous tissues was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Stably transfected CD200 cells were established in HeLa and SiHa cells. Human THP-1 monocytes were induced to differentiate into M2 macrophages. HeLa and SiHa cells were cultured in conditioned medium from M2 macrophages to observe the effects of CD200-CD200R on invasion, CTSK, p65NF-κB, and cisplatin or paclitaxel sensitivity in cervical cancer cells. HeLa cells were injected to induce xenograft tumors in mice, and a CTSK inhibitor, MK-0822, was used to confirm the regulation of CTSK and paclitaxel sensitivity by CD200-CD200R in vivo. Results A significant decrease in CD200 and CTSK expression was found in tumor cancer tissues compared with para-cancerous tissues. Only CD200 overexpression did not affect cervical cell invasion, but CD200-CD200R could enhance the cell invasion and resistance to cisplatin or paclitaxel. Meanwhile, expression of CTSK and p-p65NF-κB in cancer cells stably transfected with CD200 was obviously increased after culture in conditioned medium from M2 macrophages compared with transfection with the plasmid control. In vivo, CTSK inhibition significantly suppressed the effects of CD200-CD200R overexpression on the response to paclitaxel by suppressing the CTSK-mediated NF-κB pathway. Conclusions CD200-CD200R regulates CTSK-mediated NF-κB pathway to affect cisplatin or paclitaxel sensitivity in cervical cancer, which provides a possible immunotherapeutic target and combination strategy for advanced cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Mou
- Department of Radiotherapy, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Department of Radiotherapy, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Dalei Li
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, 264000, China
| | - Rong Fan
- Yantai Raphael Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, 264200, China
| | - Qing Tang
- Department of Gynecology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, 264000, China
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5
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Wang Q, Shi Y, Bian Q, Zhang N, Wang M, Wang J, Li X, Lai L, Zhao Z, Yu H. Molecular mechanisms of syncytin-1 in tumors and placental development related diseases. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:104. [PMID: 37326913 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00702-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) have evolved from exogenous retroviruses and account for approximately 8% of the human genome. A growing number of findings suggest that the abnormal expression of HERV genes is associated with schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, endometriosis, breast cancer, bladder cancer and other diseases. HERV-W env (syncytin-1) is a membrane glycoprotein which plays an important role in placental development. It includes embryo implantation, fusion of syncytiotrophoblasts and of fertilized eggs, and immune response. The abnormal expression of syncytin-1 is related to placental development-related diseases such as preeclampsia, infertility, and intrauterine growth restriction, as well as tumors such as neuroblastoma, endometrial cancer, and endometriosis. This review mainly focused on the molecular interactions of syncytin-1 in placental development-related diseases and tumors, to explore whether syncytin-1 can be an emerging biological marker and potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Bian
- Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pathophysiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Naibin Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianing Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Luhao Lai
- Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhankui Zhao
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, 272029, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Honglian Yu
- Department of Biochemistry, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, 272067, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Lin CH, Talebian F, Yang L, Zhu J, Liu JQ, Zhao B, Basu S, Pan X, Chen X, Yan P, Carson WE, Xin G, Wen H, Wang R, Li Z, Ma Q, Bai XF. CD200R signaling contributes to unfavorable tumor microenvironment through regulating production of chemokines by tumor-associated myeloid cells. iScience 2023; 26:106904. [PMID: 37275530 PMCID: PMC10239067 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CD200 is overexpressed in many solid tumors and considered as an immune checkpoint molecule dampening cancer immunity. In this study, we found that CD200R-/- mice were significantly more potent in rejecting these CD200+ tumors. scRNA sequencing demonstrated that tumors from CD200R-/- mice had more infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and NK cells but less infiltration of neutrophils. Antibody depletion experiments revealed that immune effector cells are crucial in inhibiting tumor growth in CD200R-/- mice. Mechanistically, we found that CD200R signaling regulates the expression of chemokines in tumor-associated myeloid cells (TAMCs). In the absence of CD200R, TAMCs increased expression of CCL24 and resulted in increased infiltration of eosinophils, which contributes to anti-tumor activity. Overall, we conclude that CD200R signaling contributes to unfavorable TME through chemokine-dependent recruitment of immune suppressive neutrophils and exclusion of anti-cancer immune effectors. Our study has implications in developing CD200-CD200R targeted immunotherapy of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cho-Hao Lin
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Fatemeh Talebian
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jianmin Zhu
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jin-Qing Liu
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Bolin Zhao
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sujit Basu
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xueliang Pan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xi Chen
- Genomics Shared Resource, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Pearlly Yan
- Genomics Shared Resource, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - William E. Carson
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gang Xin
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Haitao Wen
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ruoning Wang
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Zihai Li
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Qin Ma
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xue-Feng Bai
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Acar S, Armstrong AE, Hirbe AC. Plexiform neurofibroma: shedding light on the investigational agents in clinical trials. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 31:31-40. [PMID: 34932916 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2022120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition, which predisposes individuals to the development of plexiform neurofibromas (PN), benign nerve sheath tumors seen in 30-50% of patients with NF1. These tumors may cause significant pain and disfigurement or may compromise organ function. Given the morbidity associated with these tumors, therapeutic options for patients with NF1-related PN are necessary. AREAS COVERED We searched the www.clinicaltrials.gov database for 'plexiform neurofibroma.' This article summarizes completed and ongoing trials involving systemic therapies for PN. EXPERT OPINION Surgery is the mainstay treatment; however, complete resection is not possible in many cases. Numerous systemic therapies have been evaluated in patients with NF1, with MEK inhibitors (MEKi) showing the greatest efficacy for volumetric reduction and improvement in functional and patient-reported outcomes. The MEKi selumetinib is now FDA approved for the treatment of inoperable, symptomatic PN in pediatric NF1 patients. Questions remain regarding the use of this drug class in terms of when to initiate therapy, overall duration, reduced dosing schedules, and side effect management. Future studies are needed to fully understand the clinical application of MEKi and to evaluate other potential therapies through appropriate trial designs for this potentially devastating, manifestation in NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simge Acar
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.,School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Amy E Armstrong
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo, USA.,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Angela C Hirbe
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo, USA.,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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8
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McEachron TA, Helman LJ. Recent Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research. Cancer Res 2021; 81:5783-5799. [PMID: 34561271 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-1191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few years, the field of pediatric cancer has experienced a shift in momentum, and this has led to new and exciting findings that have relevance beyond pediatric malignancies. Here we present the current status of key aspects of pediatric cancer research. We have focused on genetic and epigenetic drivers of disease, cellular origins of different pediatric cancers, disease models, the tumor microenvironment, and cellular immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee J Helman
- Osteosarcoma Institute, Dallas, Texas
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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9
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Talebian F, Yu J, Lynch K, Liu JQ, Carson WE, Bai XF. CD200 Blockade Modulates Tumor Immune Microenvironment but Fails to Show Efficacy in Inhibiting Tumor Growth in a Murine Model of Melanoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:739816. [PMID: 34692697 PMCID: PMC8531493 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.739816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
CD200-CD200R pathway regulates immune responses and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of cancer types. CD200 blockade is considered a strategy for immunotherapy of CD200-positive cancers such as melanoma. Thus, it is critical to understand the potential impacts of CD200 blockade in a more human relevant tumor model. In this study, we evaluated these issues using the CD200+ Yumm1.7 mouse melanoma model. Yumm1.7 cells bear Braf/Pten mutations resembling human melanoma. We found that Yumm1.7 tumors grow significantly faster in CD200R–/– mice compared to wild type mice. Analysis of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) revealed that tumors from CD200R–/– or anti-CD200 treated mice had downregulated immune cell contents and reduced TCR clonality compared to tumors from untreated wild type mice. T cells also showed impaired effector functions, as reflected by reduced numbers of IFN-γ+ and TNF-α+ T cells. Mechanistically, we found upregulation of the CCL8 gene in CD200R–/– tumors. In vitro co-culture experiments using Yumm1.7 tumor cells with bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDM) from WT and CD200R–/– mice confirmed upregulation of macrophage CCL8 in the absence of CD200-CD200R interaction. Finally, we found that anti-CD200 therapy failed to show efficacy either alone or in combination with checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 or anti-CTLA4 in inhibiting Yumm1.7 tumor growth. Given that CD200R-deficiency or anti-CD200 treatment leads to reduced T cell responses in TME, using blockade of CD200 as an immunotherapy for cancers such as melanoma should be practiced with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Talebian
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jianyu Yu
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kimberly Lynch
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jin-Qing Liu
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - William E Carson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Xue-Feng Bai
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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10
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Wieland L, Engel K, Volkmer I, Krüger A, Posern G, Kornhuber ME, Staege MS, Emmer A. Overexpression of Endogenous Retroviruses and Malignancy Markers in Neuroblastoma Cell Lines by Medium-Induced Microenvironmental Changes. Front Oncol 2021; 11:637522. [PMID: 34026614 PMCID: PMC8138558 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.637522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the commonest solid tumor outside the central nervous system in infancy and childhood with a unique biological heterogeneity. In patients with advanced, metastasizing neuroblastoma, treatment failure and poor prognosis is often marked by resistance to chemo- or immunotherapy. Thus, identification of robust biomarkers seems essential for understanding tumor progression and developing effective therapy. Here, we have studied the expression of human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) as potential targets in NB cell lines during stem-cell medium-induced microenvironmental change. Quantitative PCR revealed that relative expression of the HERV-K family and HERV-W1 ENV were increased in all three NB cell lines after incubation in stem-cell medium. Virus transcriptome analyses revealed the transcriptional activation of three endogenous retrovirus elements: HERV-R ENV (ERV3-1), HERV-E1 and HERV-Fc2 ENV (ERVFC1-1). Known malignancy markers in NB, e.g. proto-oncogenic MYC or MYCN were expressed highly heterogeneously in the three investigated NB cell lines with up-regulation of MYC and MYCN upon medium-induced microenvironmental change. In addition, SiMa cells exclusively showed a phenotype switching from loosely-adherent monolayers to low proliferating grape-like cellular aggregates, which was accompanied by an enhanced CD133 expression. Interestingly, the overexpression of HERV was associated with a significant elevation of immune checkpoint molecule CD200 in both quantitative PCR and RNA-seq analysis suggesting tumor escape mechanism in NB cell lines after incubation in serum-free stem cell medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Wieland
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.,Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Kristina Engel
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Ines Volkmer
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Anna Krüger
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Guido Posern
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Malte E Kornhuber
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Martin S Staege
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Alexander Emmer
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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11
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Vathiotis IA, MacNeil T, Zugazagoitia J, Syrigos KN, Aung TN, Gruver AM, Vaillancourt P, Hughes I, Hinton S, Driscoll K, Rimm DL. Quantitative Assessment of CD200 and CD200R Expression in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051024. [PMID: 33804482 PMCID: PMC7957629 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CD200/CD200R is an immune checkpoint with broad expression patterns and a potential target for immune therapy. In this study, we assess both CD200 and CD200R expression in solid tumors, with a focus on lung cancer, and evaluate their association with clinicopathologic characteristics, mutation status, outcome, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression. We used multiplexed quantitative immunofluorescence (QIF) to measure the expression of CD200 and CD200R in a total of 455 patients from three lung cancer cohorts. Using carefully validated antibodies, we performed target measurement with tyramide-based QIF panels and analyzed the data using the PM2000 microscope and AQUA software. CD200 tumor positivity was found in 29.7% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and 33.3% of lung large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) patients. CD200 demonstrated notable intratumoral heterogeneity. CD200R was expressed in immune cells in 25% of NSCLC and 41.3% of LCNEC patients. While CD200R is predominantly expressed in immune cells, rare tumor cell staining was seen in a highly heterogeneous pattern. CD200R expression in the stromal compartment was significantly higher in patients with squamous differentiation (p < 0.0001). Neither CD200 nor CD200R were associated with other clinicopathologic characteristics or mutation status. Both biomarkers were not prognostic for disease-free or overall survival in NSCLC. CD200 showed moderate correlation with PD-L1. CD200/CD200R pathway is frequently expressed in lung cancer patients. Differential expression patterns of CD200 and CD200R with PD-L1 suggest a potential role for targeting this pathway alone in patients with NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A. Vathiotis
- Department of Pathology, BML 116, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar St. P.O. Box 208023, New Haven, CT 06520-8023, USA; (I.A.V.); (T.M.); (J.Z.); (T.N.A.)
| | - Tyler MacNeil
- Department of Pathology, BML 116, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar St. P.O. Box 208023, New Haven, CT 06520-8023, USA; (I.A.V.); (T.M.); (J.Z.); (T.N.A.)
| | - Jon Zugazagoitia
- Department of Pathology, BML 116, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar St. P.O. Box 208023, New Haven, CT 06520-8023, USA; (I.A.V.); (T.M.); (J.Z.); (T.N.A.)
| | - Konstantinos N. Syrigos
- Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Thazin Nwe Aung
- Department of Pathology, BML 116, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar St. P.O. Box 208023, New Haven, CT 06520-8023, USA; (I.A.V.); (T.M.); (J.Z.); (T.N.A.)
| | - Aaron M. Gruver
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA; (A.M.G.); (P.V.); (I.H.); (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Peter Vaillancourt
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA; (A.M.G.); (P.V.); (I.H.); (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Ina Hughes
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA; (A.M.G.); (P.V.); (I.H.); (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Steve Hinton
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA; (A.M.G.); (P.V.); (I.H.); (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Kyla Driscoll
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA; (A.M.G.); (P.V.); (I.H.); (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - David L. Rimm
- Department of Pathology, BML 116, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar St. P.O. Box 208023, New Haven, CT 06520-8023, USA; (I.A.V.); (T.M.); (J.Z.); (T.N.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-203-737-4204; Fax: +1-203-737-5089
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Wienke J, Dierselhuis MP, Tytgat GAM, Künkele A, Nierkens S, Molenaar JJ. The immune landscape of neuroblastoma: Challenges and opportunities for novel therapeutic strategies in pediatric oncology. Eur J Cancer 2020; 144:123-150. [PMID: 33341446 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2020.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy holds great promise for the treatment of pediatric cancers. In neuroblastoma, the recent implementation of anti-GD2 antibody Dinutuximab into the standard of care has improved patient outcomes substantially. However, 5-year survival rates are still below 50% in patients with high-risk neuroblastoma, which has sparked investigations into novel immunotherapeutic approaches. T cell-engaging therapies such as immune checkpoint blockade, antibody-mediated therapy and adoptive T cell therapy have proven remarkably successful in a range of adult cancers but still meet challenges in pediatric oncology. In neuroblastoma, their limited success may be due to several factors. Neuroblastoma displays low immunogenicity due to its low mutational load and lack of MHC-I expression. Tumour infiltration by T and NK cells is especially low in high-risk neuroblastoma and is prognostic for survival. Only a small fraction of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes shows tumour reactivity. Moreover, neuroblastoma tumours employ a variety of immune evasion strategies, including expression of immune checkpoint molecules, induction of immunosuppressive myeloid and stromal cells, as well as secretion of immunoregulatory mediators, which reduce infiltration and reactivity of immune cells. Overcoming these challenges will be key to the successful implementation of novel immunotherapeutic interventions. Combining different immunotherapies, as well as personalised strategies, may be promising approaches. We will discuss the composition, function and prognostic value of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in neuroblastoma, reflect on challenges for immunotherapy, including a lack of TIL reactivity and tumour immune evasion strategies, and highlight opportunities for immunotherapy and future perspectives with regard to state-of-the-art developments in the tumour immunology space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Wienke
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Annette Künkele
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt - Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Nierkens
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jan J Molenaar
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Boal LH, Glod J, Spencer M, Kasai M, Derdak J, Dombi E, Ahlman M, Beury DW, Merchant MS, Persenaire C, Liewehr DJ, Steinberg SM, Widemann BC, Kaplan RN. Pediatric PK/PD Phase I Trial of Pexidartinib in Relapsed and Refractory Leukemias and Solid Tumors Including Neurofibromatosis Type I-Related Plexiform Neurofibromas. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:6112-6121. [PMID: 32943455 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-1696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Simultaneously targeting the tumor and tumor microenvironment may hold promise in treating children with refractory solid tumors. Pexidartinib, an oral inhibitor of tyrosine kinases including colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF-1R), KIT, and FLT3, is FDA approved in adults with tenosynovial giant cell tumor. A phase I trial was conducted in pediatric and young adult patients with refractory leukemias or solid tumors including neurofibromatosis type 1-related plexiform neurofibromas. PATIENTS AND METHODS A rolling six design with dose levels (DL) of 400 mg/m2, 600 mg/m2, and 800 mg/m2 once daily for 28-day cycles (C) was used. Response was assessed at regular intervals. Pharmacokinetics and population pharmacokinetics were analyzed during C1. RESULTS Twelve patients (4 per DL, 9 evaluable) enrolled on the dose-escalation phase and 4 patients enrolled in the expansion cohort: median (lower, upper quartile) age 16 (14, 16.5) years. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed. Pharmacokinetics appeared linear over three DLs. Pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation determined a weight-based recommended phase II dose (RP2D). Two patients had stable disease and 1 patient with peritoneal mesothelioma (C49+) had a sustained partial response (67% RECIST reduction). Pharmacodynamic markers included a rise in plasma macrophage CSF (MCSF) levels and a decrease in absolute monocyte count. CONCLUSIONS Pexidartinib in pediatric patients was well tolerated at all DL tested, achieved target inhibition, and resulted in a weight-based RPD2 dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren H Boal
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.,Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C
| | - John Glod
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Melissa Spencer
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Miki Kasai
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joanne Derdak
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Eva Dombi
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mark Ahlman
- Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Daniel W Beury
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Melinda S Merchant
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christianne Persenaire
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - David J Liewehr
- Biostatistics and Data Management Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Seth M Steinberg
- Biostatistics and Data Management Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Brigitte C Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Rosandra N Kaplan
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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