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Huang M, Liu Y, Yan Q, Peng M, Ge J, Mo Y, Wang Y, Wang F, Zeng Z, Li Y, Fan C, Xiong W. NK cells as powerful therapeutic tool in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:733-757. [PMID: 38170381 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00909-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells have gained considerable attention and hold great potential for their application in tumor immunotherapy. This is mainly due to their MHC-unrestricted and pan-specific recognition capabilities, as well as their ability to rapidly respond to and eliminate target cells. To artificially generate therapeutic NK cells, various materials can be utilized, such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and NK cell lines. Exploiting the therapeutic potential of NK cells to treat tumors through in vivo and in vitro therapeutic modalities has yielded positive therapeutic results. CONCLUSION This review provides a comprehensive description of NK cell therapeutic approaches for tumors and discusses the current problems associated with these therapeutic approaches and the prospects of NK cell therapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Huang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yixuan Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qijia Yan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao Peng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Junshang Ge
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yongzhen Mo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yumin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fuyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Alkek Building, RM N720, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chunmei Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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He S, Zhao Z. Genetically engineered cell-derived nanovesicles for cancer immunotherapy. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:8317-8334. [PMID: 38592744 PMCID: PMC11075450 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr06565k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of immunotherapy has marked a new epoch in cancer treatment, presenting substantial clinical benefits. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), as natural nanocarriers, can deliver biologically active agents in cancer therapy with their inherent biocompatibility and negligible immunogenicity. However, natural EVs have limitations such as inadequate targeting capability, low loading efficacy, and unpredictable side effects. Through progress in genetic engineering, EVs have been modified for enhanced delivery of immunomodulatory agents and antigen presentation with specific cancer targeting ability, deepening the role of EVs in cancer immunotherapy. This review briefly describes typical EV sources, isolation methods, and adjustable targeting of EVs. Furthermore, this review highlights the genetic engineering strategies developed for delivering immunomodulatory agents and antigen presentation in EV-based systems. The prospects and challenges of genetically engineered EVs as cancer immunotherapy in clinical translation are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Zongmin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
- Translational Oncology Program, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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3
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Yimin E, Lu C, Zhu K, Li W, Sun J, Ji P, Meng M, Liu Z, Yu C. Function and mechanism of exosomes derived from different cells as communication mediators in colorectal cancer metastasis. iScience 2024; 27:109350. [PMID: 38500820 PMCID: PMC10945197 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality, with metastasis being the primary determinant of poor prognosis in patients. Investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying CRC metastasis is currently a prominent and challenging area of research. Exosomes, as crucial intercellular communication mediators, facilitate the transfer of metabolic and genetic information from cells of origin to recipient cells. Their roles in mediating information exchange between CRC cells and immune cells, fibroblasts, and other cell types are pivotal in reshaping the tumor microenvironment, regulating key biological processes such as invasion, migration, and formation of pre-metastatic niche. This article comprehensively examines the communication function and mechanism of exosomes derived from different cells in cancer metastasis, while also presenting an outlook on current research advancements and future application prospects. The aim is to offer a distinctive perspective that contributes to accurate diagnosis and rational treatment strategies for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin E
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chen Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Long Mian Avenue 109 Jiangning, Nanjing 211112, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kuixuan Zhu
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center), Kunming 650100, Yunan, China
| | - Wenyuan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pengcheng Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Long Mian Avenue 109 Jiangning, Nanjing 211112, Jiangsu, China
| | - Minjie Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhengxia Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunzhao Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Long Mian Avenue 109 Jiangning, Nanjing 211112, Jiangsu, China
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan Road, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu, China
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4
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Zhang Q, Lin J, Yang M, Li Z, Zhang M, Bu B. Therapeutic potential of natural killer cells in neuroimmunological diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116371. [PMID: 38430631 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, a major component of the innate immune system, have prominent immunoregulatory, antitumor proliferation, and antiviral activities. NK cells act as a double-edged sword with therapeutic potential in neurological autoimmunity. Emerging evidence has identified NK cells are involved in the development and progression of neuroimmunological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, autoimmune encephalitis, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, myasthenia gravis, and idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. However, the regulatory mechanisms and functional roles of NK cells are highly variable in different clinical states of neuroimmunological diseases and need to be further determined. In this review, we summarize the evidence for the heterogenic involvement of NK cells in the above conditions. Further, we describe cutting-edge NK-cell-based immunotherapy for neuroimmunological diseases in preclinical and clinical development and highlight challenges that must be overcome to fully realize the therapeutic potential of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Mengge Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Zhijun Li
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Bitao Bu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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5
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Jung I, Shin S, Baek MC, Yea K. Modification of immune cell-derived exosomes for enhanced cancer immunotherapy: current advances and therapeutic applications. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:19-31. [PMID: 38172594 PMCID: PMC10834411 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01132-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized the approach to cancer treatment of malignant tumors by harnessing the body's immune system to selectively target cancer cells. Despite remarkable advances, there are still challenges in achieving successful clinical responses. Recent evidence suggests that immune cell-derived exosomes modulate the immune system to generate effective antitumor immune responses, making them a cutting-edge therapeutic strategy. However, natural exosomes are limited in clinical application due to their low drug delivery efficiency and insufficient antitumor capacity. Technological advancements have allowed exosome modifications to magnify their intrinsic functions, load different therapeutic cargoes, and preferentially target tumor sites. These engineered exosomes exert potent antitumor effects and have great potential for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we describe ingenious modification strategies to attain the desired performance. Moreover, we systematically summarize the tumor-controlling properties of engineered immune cell-derived exosomes in innate and adaptive immunity. Collectively, this review provides a comprehensive and intuitive guide for harnessing the potential of modified immune cell-derived exosome-based approaches, offering valuable strategies to enhance and optimize cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inseong Jung
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Shin
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon-Chang Baek
- Department of Molecular Medicine, CMRI, Exosome Convergence Research Center (ECRC), School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyungmoo Yea
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
- New Biology Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 43024, Republic of Korea.
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Nathani A, Sun L, Khan I, Aare M, Bagde A, Li Y, Singh M. Combined Role of Interleukin-15 Stimulated Natural Killer Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Carboplatin in Osimertinib-Resistant H1975 Lung Cancer Cells with EGFR Mutations. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:83. [PMID: 38258094 PMCID: PMC10821370 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated IL-15 stimulated natural killer cell-derived EVs (NK-EVs) as therapeutic agents in vitro and in vivo in Osimertinib-resistant lung cancer (H1975R) with EGFR mutations (L858R) in combination with carboplatin (CBP). NK-EVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis, and atomic force microscopy imaging revealed vesicles with a spherical form and sizes meeting the criteria of exosomal EVs. Further, Western blot studies demonstrated the presence of regular EV markers along with specific NK markers (perforin and granzyme). EVs were also characterized by proteomic analysis, which demonstrated that EVs had proteins for natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity (Granzyme B) and T cell activation (perforin and plastin-2). Gene oncology analysis showed that these differentially expressed proteins are involved in programmed cell death and positive regulation of cell death. Further, isolated NK-EVs were cytotoxic to H1975R cells in vitro in 2D and 3D cell cultures. CBP's IC50 was reduced by approximately in 2D and 3D cell cultures when combined with NK-EVs. The EVs were then combined with CBP and administered by i.p. route to H1975R tumor xenografts, and a significant reduction in tumor volume in vivo was observed. Our findings show for the first time that NK-EVs target the PD-L1/PD-1 immunological checkpoint to induce apoptosis and anti-inflammatory response by downregulation of SOD2, PARP, BCL2, SET, NF-κB, and TGF-ß. The ability to isolate functional NK-EVs on a large scale and use them with platinum-based drugs may lead to new clinical applications. The results of the present study suggest the possibility of the combination of NK-cell-derived EVs and CBP as a viable immunochemotherapeutic strategy for resistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aakash Nathani
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (A.N.); (I.K.); (M.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
| | - Islauddin Khan
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (A.N.); (I.K.); (M.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Mounika Aare
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (A.N.); (I.K.); (M.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Arvind Bagde
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (A.N.); (I.K.); (M.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA;
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (A.N.); (I.K.); (M.A.); (A.B.)
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He S, Su L, Hu H, Liu H, Xiong J, Gong X, Chi H, Wu Q, Yang G. Immunoregulatory functions and therapeutic potential of natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles in chronic diseases. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1328094. [PMID: 38239346 PMCID: PMC10795180 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1328094] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been proven to play a significant immunoregulatory role in many chronic diseases, such as cancer and immune disorders. Among them, EVs derived from NK cells are an essential component of the immune cell functions. These EVs have been demonstrated to carry a variety of toxic proteins and nucleic acids derived from NK cells and play a therapeutic role in diseases like malignancies, liver fibrosis, and lung injury. However, natural NK-derived EVs (NKEVs) have certain limitations in disease treatment, such as low yield and poor targeting. Concurrently, NK cells exhibit characteristics of memory-like NK cells, which have stronger proliferative capacity, increased IFN-γ production, and enhanced cytotoxicity, making them more advantageous for disease treatment. Recent research has shifted its focus towards engineered extracellular vesicles and their potential to improve the efficiency, specificity, and safety of disease treatments. In this review, we will discuss the characteristics of NK-derived EVs and the latest advancements in disease therapy. Specifically, we will compare different cellular sources of NKEVs and explore the current status and prospects of memory-like NK cell-derived EVs and engineered NKEVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang He
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lanqian Su
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Hu
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Haiqi Liu
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingwen Xiong
- Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiangjin Gong
- Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hao Chi
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qibiao Wu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Guanhu Yang
- Department of Specialty Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
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Zhang Y, Zhao L, Wu A, Lin P, Fan J, Chen J, Wang X, Zeng X. Abnormal M1 polarization of placental macrophage induced by IL-15/STAT5 activation in VVC may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105232. [PMID: 37802467 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) may experience adverse pregnancy outcomes such as premature delivery, intrauterine infection, abortion, and neonatal infection. Therefore, finding new treatments for VVC in pregnancy is a public health priority. We aimed to study the adverse consequences of Candida albicans (C. albicans) vaginal infection in pregnant mice and explore the mechanisms by which C. albicans affects macrophages. Our findings contribute to the development of new approaches to treat VVC during pregnancy. We established an animal model of vaginal infection by C. albicans in pregnant mice and observed adverse pregnancy outcomes such as decreased body weight, reduced implantation number, and increased abortion rates. Additionally, we infected mouse macrophage line RAW264.7 cells with C. albicans and established a cell model. We employed RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence staining to verify the changes in the IL-15/STAT5 signaling pathway and the role it played on the M1 polarization of C. albicans-infected macrophages at both the gene and protein levels. Our results indicate that the adverse pregnancy outcomes in VVC may be linked to changes in the IL-15/STAT5 pathway induced by C. albicans, which could impact macrophage M1 polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Zhang
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Aiwen Wu
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Pingping Lin
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jianing Fan
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jie Chen
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xinyan Wang
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China.
| | - Xin Zeng
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Prokopeva AE, Emene CC, Gomzikova MO. Antitumor Immunity: Role of NK Cells and Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer Immunotherapy. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 46:140-152. [PMID: 38248313 PMCID: PMC10814167 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010011] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays a crucial role in recognizing and eliminating altered tumor cells. However, tumors develop mechanisms to evade the body's natural immune defenses. Therefore, methods for specifically recognizing/targeting tumor cells, for instance, through the activation, directed polarization, and training of immune cells, have been developed based on the body's immune cells. This strategy has been termed cellular immunotherapy. One promising strategy for treating tumor diseases is NK cell-based immunotherapy. NK cells have the ability to recognize and destroy transformed cells without prior activation as well as tumor cells with reduced MHC-I expression. A novel approach in immunotherapy is the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from NK cells. The main advantages of NK cell-derived EVs are their small size and better tissue penetration into a tumor. The aim of this review is to systematically present existing information on the mechanisms of antitumor immunity and the role of NK cells and extracellular vesicles in cancer immunotherapy. Clinical and preclinical studies utilizing NK cells and extracellular vesicles for anticancer therapy currently underway will provide valuable insights for researchers in the field of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina E. Prokopeva
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420111, Russia;
| | - Charles C. Emene
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420111, Russia;
| | - Marina O. Gomzikova
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420111, Russia;
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420111, Russia;
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McCune A, Kornbluth J. NK3.3-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Penetrate and Selectively Kill Treatment-Resistant Tumor Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:90. [PMID: 38201518 PMCID: PMC10778188 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010090] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatments often become ineffective due to the development of tumor resistance, leading to metastasis and relapse. Treatments may also fail because of their inability to access cells deep within the tumor tissue. When this occurs, new therapeutic agents are needed. We previously reported that NK3.3EVs, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the normal human natural killer (NK) cell line, NK3.3, have strong cytotoxic activity against leukemia and breast cancer cell lines, without harming normal cells. Here, we used a three-dimensional (3D) MCF7 breast cancer mammosphere model to reproduce a more physiological environment that NK3.3EVs would encounter in vivo. NK3.3EVs penetrated MCF7 mammospheres, inducing death by apoptosis. We generated an imatinib-resistant K562 chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cell line to investigate whether NK3.3EVs were able to kill tumor cells resistant to front-line chemotherapy. NK3.3EVs were even more cytotoxic to imatinib-resistant cells than parental cells, inducing apoptosis via caspase-3/-7 activation. The small population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) within tumors also contributes to therapeutic resistance. NK3.3EVs reduced the CSC-like CD34+/CD38- subpopulation in imatinib-resistant and parental K562 cultures and decreased CSC-associated expression of tumor-promoting genes. Our results provide strong evidence that NK3.3EVs may be a potential new immunotherapeutic agent for difficult-to-treat cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson McCune
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA;
| | - Jacki Kornbluth
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA;
- St. Louis VA Medical Center, St. Louis, MO 63106, USA
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Fahrner R, Gröger M, Settmacher U, Mosig AS. Functional integration of natural killer cells in a microfluidically perfused liver on-a-chip model. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:285. [PMID: 37865791 PMCID: PMC10590007 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06575-w] [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: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The liver acts as an innate immunity-dominant organ and natural killer (NK) cells, are the main lymphocyte population in the human liver. NK cells are in close interaction with other immune cells, acting as the first line of defense against pathogens, infections, and injury. A previously developed, three-dimensional, perfused liver-on-a-chip comprised of human cells was used to integrate NK cells, representing pivotal immune cells during liver injury and regeneration. The objective of this study was to integrate functional NK cells in an in vitro model of the human liver and assess utilization of the model for NK cell-dependent studies of liver inflammation. RESULTS NK cells from human blood and liver specimen were isolated by Percoll separation with subsequent magnetic cell separation (MACS), yielding highly purified blood and liver derived NK cells. After stimulation with toll-like-receptor (TLR) agonists (lipopolysaccharides, Pam3CSK4), isolated NK cells showed increased interferon (IFN)-gamma secretion. To study the role of NK cells in a complex hepatic environment, these cells were integrated in the vascular compartment of a microfluidically supported liver-on-a-chip model in close interaction with endothelial and resident macrophages. Successful, functional integration of NK cells was verified by immunofluorescence staining (NKp46), flow cytometry analysis and TLR agonist-dependent secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. Lastly, we observed that inflammatory activation of NK cells in the liver-on-a-chip led to a loss of vascular barrier integrity. Overall, our data shows the first successful, functional integration of NK cells in a liver-on-a-chip model that can be utilized to investigate NK cell-dependent effects on liver inflammation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Fahrner
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany.
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| | - Marko Gröger
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Utz Settmacher
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Alexander S Mosig
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
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12
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Matchett EC, Kornbluth J. Extracellular vesicles derived from immortalized human natural killer cell line NK3.3 as a novel therapeutic for multiple myeloma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1265101. [PMID: 37818374 PMCID: PMC10560732 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1265101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Over the last decade, there have been many advancements in the therapeutic treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), including the use of natural killer (NK) cells. However, despite promising results from clinical trials, there are concerns over the use of NK cell-based therapy. Cells often undergo growth arrest, limiting their experimental utility; donor cells are extremely heterogeneous, resulting in content variability; and patients receiving allogeneic cells are at risk for graft-versus-host disease and/or cytokine release syndrome. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a new natural therapeutic tool. EVs are known to carry cargo derived from the parent cell from which they originate. NK cells play an important role in the innate immune system, targeting and killing tumor cells. This has led many researchers to isolate EVs from NK cells for their cytotoxic potential. Methods In this study, we isolated EVs from the NK cell line, NK3.3, which was derived from the peripheral blood of a healthy donor. Currently, it is the only normal human NK cell line reported with all the functional characteristics of healthy NK cells. To address the issue of growth arrest, we immortalized NK3.3 cells with lentivirus encoding the catalytic subunit of human telomerase htert (NK3.3-LTV). EVs from these cells were isolated using a modified polyethylene glycol (PEG)-acetate precipitation protocol to simplify processing and increase EV yield. Results and conclusions We demonstrated that NK3.3-LTV EVs target both sensitive and drug-resistant MM cell lines as well as primary patient MM cells in vitro, decreasing proliferation and inducing apoptotic cell death as well as or better than EVs from non-immortalized cells with no toxicity towards normal cells. This study is the first step towards developing an immunotherapeutic product designed to treat patients with relapsed/refractory MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C. Matchett
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Jacki Kornbluth
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Research and Education Service, VA St. Louis Health Care System, St. Louis, MO, United States
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13
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Hui J, Zhou M, An G, Zhang H, Lu Y, Wang X, Zhao X. Regulatory role of exosomes in colorectal cancer progression and potential as biomarkers. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 20:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0119. [PMID: 37553810 PMCID: PMC10476469 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0119] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains an enormous challenge to human health worldwide. Unfortunately, the mechanism underlying CRC progression is not well understood. Mounting evidence has confirmed that exosomes play a vital role in CRC progression, which has attracted extensive attention among researchers. In addition to acting as messengers between CRC cells, exosomes also participate in the CRC immunomodulatory process and reshape immune function. As stable message carriers and liquid biopsy option under development, exosomes are promising biomarkers in the diagnosis or treatment of CRC. In this review we have described and analyzed the biogenesis and release of exosomes and current research on the role of exosomes in immune regulation and metastasis of CRC. Moreover, we have discussed candidate exosomal molecules as potential biomarkers to diagnose CRC, predict CRC progression, or determine CRC chemoresistance, and described the significance of exosomes in the immunotherapy of CRC. This review provides insight to further understand the role of exosomes in CRC progression and identify valuable biomarkers that facilitate the clinical management of CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Hui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710038, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Mingzhen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Guangzhou An
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710038, China
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710038, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710038, China
| | - Xiaodi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
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14
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Carannante V, Wiklund M, Önfelt B. In vitro models to study natural killer cell dynamics in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1135148. [PMID: 37457703 PMCID: PMC10338882 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1135148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is revolutionizing cancer therapy. The rapid development of new immunotherapeutic strategies to treat solid tumors is posing new challenges for preclinical research, demanding novel in vitro methods to test treatments. Such methods should meet specific requirements, such as enabling the evaluation of immune cell responses like cytotoxicity or cytokine release, and infiltration into the tumor microenvironment using cancer models representative of the original disease. They should allow high-throughput and high-content analysis, to evaluate the efficacy of treatments and understand immune-evasion processes to facilitate development of new therapeutic targets. Ideally, they should be suitable for personalized immunotherapy testing, providing information for patient stratification. Consequently, the application of in vitro 3-dimensional (3D) cell culture models, such as tumor spheroids and organoids, is rapidly expanding in the immunotherapeutic field, coupled with the development of novel imaging-based techniques and -omic analysis. In this paper, we review the recent advances in the development of in vitro 3D platforms applied to natural killer (NK) cell-based cancer immunotherapy studies, highlighting the benefits and limitations of the current methods, and discuss new concepts and future directions of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Carannante
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Wiklund
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Önfelt
- Department of Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Tang Y, Qian C. Research progress in leveraging biomaterials for enhancing NK cell immunotherapy. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2023; 52:267-278. [PMID: 37476938 PMCID: PMC10409897 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2022-0728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
NK cell immunotherapy is a promising antitumor therapeutic modality after the development of T cell immunotherapy. Structural modification of NK cells with biomaterials may provide a precise, efficient, and low-cost strategy to enhance NK cell immunotherapy. The biomaterial modification of NK cells can be divided into two strategies: surface engineering with biomaterials and intracellular modification. The surface engineering strategies include hydrophobic interaction of lipids, receptor-ligand interaction between membrane proteins, covalent binding to amino acid residues, click reaction and electrostatic interaction. The intracellular modification strategies are based on manipulation by nanotechnology using membranous materials from various sources of NK cells (such as exosome, vesicle and cytomembranes). Finally, the biomaterials-based strategies regulate the recruitment, recognition and cytotoxicity of NK cells in the solid tumor site in situ to boost the activity of NK cells in the tumor. This article reviews the recent research progress in enhancing NK cell therapy based on biomaterial modification, to provide a reference for further researches on engineering NK cell therapy with biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Chenggen Qian
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Nanjing 210009, China.
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16
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Janho Dit Hreich S, Hofman P, Vouret-Craviari V. The Role of IL-18 in P2RX7-Mediated Antitumor Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119235. [PMID: 37298187 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide despite the variety of treatments that are currently used. This is due to an innate or acquired resistance to therapy that encourages the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies to overcome the resistance. This review will focus on the role of the purinergic receptor P2RX7 in the control of tumor growth, through its ability to modulate antitumor immunity by releasing IL-18. In particular, we describe how the ATP-induced receptor activities (cationic exchange, large pore opening and NLRP3 inflammasome activation) modulate immune cell functions. Furthermore, we recapitulate our current knowledge of the production of IL-18 downstream of P2RX7 activation and how IL-18 controls the fate of tumor growth. Finally, the potential of targeting the P2RX7/IL-18 pathway in combination with classical immunotherapies to fight cancer is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Janho Dit Hreich
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
- Hospital-Related Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Valérie Vouret-Craviari
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
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17
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Qi Y, Zhao X, Dong Y, Wang M, Wang J, Fan Z, Weng Q, Yu H, Li J. Opportunities and challenges of natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1122585. [PMID: 37064251 PMCID: PMC10102538 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1122585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized as important intermediaries of intercellular communication. They have significant roles in many physiological and pathological processes and show great promise as novel biomarkers of disease, therapeutic agents, and drug delivery tools. Existing studies have shown that natural killer cell-derived EVs (NEVs) can directly kill tumor cells and participate in the crosstalk of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. NEVs own identical cytotoxic proteins, cytotoxic receptors, and cytokines as NK cells, which is the biological basis for their application in antitumor therapy. The nanoscale size and natural targeting property of NEVs enable precisely killing tumor cells. Moreover, endowing NEVs with a variety of fascinating capabilities via common engineering strategies has become a crucial direction for future research. Thus, here we provide a brief overview of the characteristics and physiological functions of the various types of NEVs, focusing on their production, isolation, functional characterization, and engineering strategies for their promising application as a cell-free modality for tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Qi
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Zhao, ; Hua Yu, ; Jianjun Li,
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Junyi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhichao Fan
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Weng
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Zhao, ; Hua Yu, ; Jianjun Li,
| | - Jianjun Li
- Department of Oncology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Zhao, ; Hua Yu, ; Jianjun Li,
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18
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Chan AML, Cheah JM, Lokanathan Y, Ng MH, Law JX. Natural Killer Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as a Promising Immunotherapeutic Strategy for Cancer: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044026. [PMID: 36835438 PMCID: PMC9964266 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading contributor to global deaths caused by non-communicable diseases. The cancer cells are known to interact with the surrounding non-cancerous cells, including the immune cells and stromal cells, within the tumor microenvironment (TME) to modulate the tumor progression, metastasis and resistance. Currently, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the standard treatments for cancers. However, these treatments cause a significant number of side effects, as they damage both the cancer cells and the actively dividing normal cells indiscriminately. Hence, a new generation of immunotherapy using natural killer (NK) cells, cytotoxic CD8+ T-lymphocytes or macrophages was developed to achieve tumor-specific targeting and circumvent the adverse effects. However, the progression of cell-based immunotherapy is hindered by the combined action of TME and TD-EVs, which render the cancer cells less immunogenic. Recently, there has been an increase in interest in using immune cell derivatives to treat cancers. One of the highly potential immune cell derivatives is the NK cell-derived EVs (NK-EVs). As an acellular product, NK-EVs are resistant to the influence of TME and TD-EVs, and can be designed for "off-the-shelf" use. In this systematic review, we examine the safety and efficacy of NK-EVs to treat various cancers in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Man Lung Chan
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Ming Medical Sdn Bhd, D3-3 (2nd Floor), Block D3 Dana 1 Commercial Centre, Jalan PJU 1a/22, Petaling Jaya 47101, Malaysia
| | - Jin Min Cheah
- Ming Medical Sdn Bhd, D3-3 (2nd Floor), Block D3 Dana 1 Commercial Centre, Jalan PJU 1a/22, Petaling Jaya 47101, Malaysia
| | - Yogeswaran Lokanathan
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Min Hwei Ng
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Jia Xian Law
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-391-457677
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19
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Chaicharoenaudomrung N, Kunhorm P, Noisa P. Cordycepin Enhances the Cytotoxicity of Human Natural Killer Cells against Cancerous Cells. Biol Pharm Bull 2023; 46:1260-1268. [PMID: 37661405 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00221] [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: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer treatment with natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapy is promising. NK cells can recognize and kill cancer cells without sensitization, making them a potential cancer treatment alternative. To improve clinical efficacy and safety, more research is needed. Enhancing NK cell function improves therapeutic efficacy. Due to its potent apoptosis induction, Cordycepin, a bioactive compound from Cordyceps spp., inhibits cancer cell growth. Cordycepin has immunoregulatory properties, making it a promising candidate for combination therapy with NK cell-based immunotherapy. Cordycepin may enhance NK cell function and have clinical applications, but more research is needed. In this study, cordycepin treatment of NK-92 MI cells increased THP-1 and U-251 cell cytotoxicity. Cordycepin also significantly increased the mRNA expression of cytokine-encoding genes, including tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interferon gamma (IFNG), and interleukin 2 (IL2). NK-92 MI cells notably secreted more IFNG and granzyme B. Cordycepin also decreased CD27 and increased CD11b, CD16, and NKG2D in NK-92 MI cells, which improved its anti-cancer ability. In conclusion, cordycepin could enhance NK cell cytotoxicity against cancerous cells for the first time, supporting its use as an alternative immunoactivity agent against cancer cells. Further studies are needed to investigate its efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nipha Chaicharoenaudomrung
- Laboratory of Cell-Based Assays and Innovations, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology
| | - Phongsakorn Kunhorm
- Laboratory of Cell-Based Assays and Innovations, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology
| | - Parinya Noisa
- Laboratory of Cell-Based Assays and Innovations, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology
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20
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Jeong S, Kim YG, Kim S, Kim K. Enhanced anticancer efficacy of primed natural killer cells via coacervate-mediated exogenous interleukin-15 delivery. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:5968-5979. [PMID: 36048163 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00876a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Effective exogenous delivery of interleukin (IL)-15 to natural killer (NK) cells with subsequent anticancer efficacy could be a promising immune cell-based cancer immunotherapy. For the protection of encapsulated cargo IL-15 while maintaining its bioactivity under physiological conditions, we utilized a coacervate (Coa) consisting of a cationic methoxy polyethylene glycol-poly(ethylene arginyl aspartate diglyceride) (mPEG-PEAD) polymer, anionic counterpart heparin, and cargo IL-15. mPEGylation into the backbone cation effectively preserved the colloidal stability of Coa in harsh environments and enhanced the protection of cargo IL-15 than normal Coa without mPEGylation. Proliferation and anticancer efficacy of primed NK cells through co-culture with multiple cancer cell lines were enhanced in the mPEG-Coa group due to the maintained bioactivity of cargo IL-15 during the ex vivo expansion of NK cells. These facilitated functions of NK cells were also supported by the increased expression of mRNAs related to anticancer effects of NK cells, including cytotoxic granules, death ligands, anti-apoptotic proteins, and activation receptors. In summary, our Coa-mediated exogenous IL-15 delivery could be an effective ex vivo priming technique for NK cells with sustained immune activation that can effectively facilitate its usage for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehwan Jeong
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young Guk Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sungjun Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyobum Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Tracking of Extracellular Vesicles’ Biodistribution: New Methods and Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911312. [PMID: 36232613 PMCID: PMC9569979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized lipid bilayer vesicles that are released by almost all cell types. They range in diameter from 30 nm to several micrometres and have the ability to carry biologically active molecules such as proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. EVs are natural vectors and play an important role in many physiological and pathological processes. The amount and composition of EVs in human biological fluids serve as biomarkers and are used for diagnosing diseases and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. EVs are promising for use as therapeutic agents and as natural vectors for drug delivery. However, the successful use of EVs in clinical practice requires an understanding of their biodistribution in an organism. Numerous studies conducted so far on the biodistribution of EVs show that, after intravenous administration, EVs are mostly localized in organs rich in blood vessels and organs associated with the reticuloendothelial system, such as the liver, lungs, spleen, and kidneys. In order to improve resolution, new dyes and labels are being developed and detection methods are being optimized. In this work, we review all available modern methods and approaches used to assess the biodistribution of EVs, as well as discuss their advantages and limitations.
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22
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Aarsund M, Nyman TA, Stensland ME, Wu Y, Inngjerdingen M. Isolation of a cytolytic subpopulation of extracellular vesicles derived from NK cells containing NKG7 and cytolytic proteins. Front Immunol 2022; 13:977353. [PMID: 36189227 PMCID: PMC9520454 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.977353] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells can broadly target and kill malignant cells via release of cytolytic proteins. NK cells also release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contain cytolytic proteins, previously shown to induce apoptosis of a variety of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The EVs released by NK cells are likely very heterogeneous, as vesicles can be released from the plasma membrane or from different intracellular compartments. In this study, we undertook a fractionation scheme to enrich for cytolytic NK-EVs. NK-EVs were harvested from culture medium from the human NK-92 cell line or primary human NK cells grown in serum-free conditions. By combining ultracentrifugation with downstream density-gradient ultracentrifugation or size-exclusion chromatography, distinct EV populations were identified. Density-gradient ultracentrifugation led to separation of three subpopulations of EVs. The different EV isolates were characterized by label-free quantitative mass spectrometry and western blotting, and we found that one subpopulation was primarily enriched for plasma membrane proteins and tetraspanins CD37, CD82, and CD151, and likely represents microvesicles. The other major subpopulation was enriched in intracellularly derived markers with high expression of the endosomal tetraspanin CD63 and markers for intracellular organelles. The intracellularly derived EVs were highly enriched in cytolytic proteins, and possessed high apoptotic activity against HCT-116 colon cancer spheroids. To further enrich for cytolytic EVs, immunoaffinity pulldowns led to the isolation of a subset of EVs containing the cytolytic granule marker NKG7 and the majority of vesicular granzyme B content. We therefore propose that EVs containing cytolytic proteins may primarily be released via cytolytic granules.
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23
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Terrén I, Orrantia A, Astarloa-Pando G, Amarilla-Irusta A, Zenarruzabeitia O, Borrego F. Cytokine-Induced Memory-Like NK Cells: From the Basics to Clinical Applications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:884648. [PMID: 35603208 PMCID: PMC9114299 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.884648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes with a key role in the defense against viral infections and tumor cells. Although NK cells are classified as innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), under certain circumstances they exhibit adaptive and memory-like features. The latter may be achieved, among others, by a brief stimulation with interleukin (IL)-12, IL-15 and IL-18. These cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells resemble the trained immunity observed in myeloid cells. CIML NK cells undergo transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming that, along with changes in the expression of cell surface receptors and components of cytotoxic granules, are responsible for their enhanced effector functions after a resting period. In addition, these memory-like NK cells persist for a long time, which make them a good candidate for cancer immunotherapy. Currently, several clinical trials are testing CIML NK cells infusions to treat tumors, mostly hematological malignancies. In relapse/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the adoptive transfer of CIML NK cells is safe and complete clinical remissions have been observed. In our review, we sought to summarize the current knowledge about the generation and molecular basis of NK cell memory-like responses and the up-to-date results from clinical trials with CIML NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Terrén
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Ane Orrantia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | | | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
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24
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Kong H, Kim SB. Exosomal Communication Between the Tumor Microenvironment and Innate Immunity and Its Therapeutic Application. Immune Netw 2022; 22:e38. [DOI: 10.4110/in.2022.22.e38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunseok Kong
- Department of Animal Resource Science, Sahmyook University, Seoul 01795, Korea
| | - Sang Bum Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, Seoul 01795, Korea
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