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Squalli Houssaini A, Lamrabet S, Nshizirungu JP, Senhaji N, Sekal M, Karkouri M, Bennis S. Glioblastoma Vaccines as Promising Immune-Therapeutics: Challenges and Current Status. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:655. [PMID: 38932383 PMCID: PMC11209492 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060655] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumor. Standard treatments including surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, have failed to significantly improve the prognosis of glioblastoma patients. Currently, immunotherapeutic approaches based on vaccines, chimeric antigen-receptor T-cells, checkpoint inhibitors, and oncolytic virotherapy are showing promising results in clinical trials. The combination of different immunotherapeutic approaches is proving satisfactory and promising. In view of the challenges of immunotherapy and the resistance of glioblastomas, the treatment of these tumors requires further efforts. In this review, we explore the obstacles that potentially influence the efficacy of the response to immunotherapy and that should be taken into account in clinical trials. This article provides a comprehensive review of vaccine therapy for glioblastoma. In addition, we identify the main biomarkers, including isocitrate dehydrogenase, epidermal growth factor receptor, and telomerase reverse transcriptase, known as potential immunotherapeutic targets in glioblastoma, as well as the current status of clinical trials. This paper also lists proposed solutions to overcome the obstacles facing immunotherapy in glioblastomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmae Squalli Houssaini
- Laboratory of Biomedical and Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco;
| | - Salma Lamrabet
- Laboratory of Biomedical and Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco;
| | - Jean Paul Nshizirungu
- Biology Department, School of Science, College of Science and Technology, University of Rwanda, Kigali P.O. Box 3900, Rwanda;
| | - Nadia Senhaji
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Moulay Ismail University, Meknes 50000, Morocco;
| | - Mohammed Sekal
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco;
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Ibn Rochd University Hospital of Casablanca, Casablanca 20250, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Cellular and molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
| | - Sanae Bennis
- Laboratory of Biomedical and Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez 30070, Morocco;
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2
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He W, Wang N, Wang Y, Liu M, Qing Q, Su Q, Zou Y, Liu Y. Engineering Nanomedicine for Non-Viral RNA-Based Gene Therapy of Glioblastoma. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:482. [PMID: 38675144 PMCID: PMC11054437 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040482] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of malignant tumor of the central nervous system, characterized by aggressiveness, genetic instability, heterogenesis, and unpredictable clinical behavior. Disappointing results from the current clinical therapeutic methods have fueled a search for new therapeutic targets and treatment modalities. GBM is characterized by various genetic alterations, and RNA-based gene therapy has raised particular attention in GBM therapy. Here, we review the recent advances in engineered non-viral nanocarriers for RNA drug delivery to treat GBM. Therapeutic strategies concerning the brain-targeted delivery of various RNA drugs involving siRNA, microRNA, mRNA, ASO, and short-length RNA and the therapeutical mechanisms of these drugs to tackle the challenges of chemo-/radiotherapy resistance, recurrence, and incurable stem cell-like tumor cells of GBM are herein outlined. We also highlight the progress, prospects, and remaining challenges of non-viral nanocarriers-mediated RNA-based gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya He
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (W.H.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Ningyang Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (W.H.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Mengyao Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qian Qing
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qihang Su
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yan Zou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
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3
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Salvato I, Marchini A. Immunotherapeutic Strategies for the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1276. [PMID: 38610954 PMCID: PMC11010873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071276] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of research and the best up-to-date treatments, grade 4 Glioblastoma (GBM) remains uniformly fatal with a patient median overall survival of less than 2 years. Recent advances in immunotherapy have reignited interest in utilizing immunological approaches to fight cancer. However, current immunotherapies have so far not met the anticipated expectations, achieving modest results in their journey from bench to bedside for the treatment of GBM. Understanding the intrinsic features of GBM is of crucial importance for the development of effective antitumoral strategies to improve patient life expectancy and conditions. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the distinctive characteristics of GBM that significantly influence current conventional therapies and immune-based approaches. Moreover, we present an overview of the immunotherapeutic strategies currently undergoing clinical evaluation for GBM treatment, with a specific emphasis on those advancing to phase 3 clinical studies. These encompass immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T cell therapies, vaccination strategies (i.e., RNA-, DNA-, and peptide-based vaccines), and virus-based approaches. Finally, we explore novel innovative strategies and future prospects in the field of immunotherapy for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Salvato
- NORLUX Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
- Laboratory of Oncolytic Virus Immuno-Therapeutics (LOVIT), Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM), University of Luxembourg, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Antonio Marchini
- Laboratory of Oncolytic Virus Immuno-Therapeutics (LOVIT), Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Laboratory of Oncolytic Virus Immuno-Therapeutics, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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4
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Ogando-Rivas E, Castillo P, Yang C, Trivedi V, Zhang D, Pohl-Guimarães F, Liu R, Barpujari A, Candelario KM, Mendez-Gomez H, Sayour EJ, Mitchell DA. Expanded specific T cells to hypomutated regions of the SARS-CoV-2 using mRNA electroporated antigen-presenting cells. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101192. [PMID: 38327807 PMCID: PMC10847775 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused about seven million deaths worldwide. Preventative vaccines have been developed including Spike gp mRNA-based vaccines that provide protection to immunocompetent patients. However, patients with primary immunodeficiencies, patients with cancer, or hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients are not able to mount robust immune responses against current vaccine approaches. We propose to target structural SARS-CoV-2 antigens (i.e., Spike gp, Membrane, Nucleocapsid, and Envelope) using circulating human antigen-presenting cells electroporated with full length SARS-CoV-2 structural protein-encoding mRNAs to activate and expand specific T cells. Based on the Th1-type cytokine and cytolytic enzyme secretion upon antigen rechallenge, we were able to generate SARS-CoV-2 specific T cells in up to 70% of unexposed unvaccinated healthy donors (HDs) after 3 subsequent stimulations and in 100% of recovered patients (RPs) after 2 stimulations. By means of SARS-CoV-2 specific TCRβ repertoire analysis, T cells specific to Spike gp-derived hypomutated regions were identified in HDs and RPs despite viral genomic evolution. Hence, we demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-loaded antigen-presenting cells are effective activating and expanding COVID19-specific T cells. This approach represents an alternative to patients who are not able to mount adaptive immune responses to current COVID-19 vaccines with potential protection across new variants that have conserved genetic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Ogando-Rivas
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Paul Castillo
- UF Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Changlin Yang
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vrunda Trivedi
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dingpeng Zhang
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fernanda Pohl-Guimarães
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ruixuan Liu
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Arnav Barpujari
- UF Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kate M. Candelario
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hector Mendez-Gomez
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Elias J. Sayour
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- UF Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Duane A. Mitchell
- UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Preston A. Wells Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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5
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Valle-Garcia D, Pérez de la Cruz V, Flores I, Salazar A, Pineda B, Meza-Sosa KF. Use of microRNAs as Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Tools for Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2464. [PMID: 38473710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052464] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive and common type of cancer within the central nervous system (CNS). Despite the vast knowledge of its physiopathology and histology, its etiology at the molecular level has not been completely understood. Thus, attaining a cure has not been possible yet and it remains one of the deadliest types of cancer. Usually, GB is diagnosed when some symptoms have already been presented by the patient. This diagnosis is commonly based on a physical exam and imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), together with or followed by a surgical biopsy. As these diagnostic procedures are very invasive and often result only in the confirmation of GB presence, it is necessary to develop less invasive diagnostic and prognostic tools that lead to earlier treatment to increase GB patients' quality of life. Therefore, blood-based biomarkers (BBBs) represent excellent candidates in this context. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that have been demonstrated to be very stable in almost all body fluids, including saliva, serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CFS), semen, and breast milk. In addition, serum-circulating and exosome-contained miRNAs have been successfully used to better classify subtypes of cancer at the molecular level and make better choices regarding the best treatment for specific cases. Moreover, as miRNAs regulate multiple target genes and can also act as tumor suppressors and oncogenes, they are involved in the appearance, progression, and even chemoresistance of most tumors. Thus, in this review, we discuss how dysregulated miRNAs in GB can be used as early diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers as well as molecular markers to subclassify GB cases and provide more personalized treatments, which may have a better response against GB. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic potential of miRNAs, the current challenges to their clinical application, and future directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Valle-Garcia
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Laboratorio de Neurobioquímica y Conducta, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Itamar Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Aleli Salazar
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Benjamín Pineda
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Karla F Meza-Sosa
- Laboratorio de Neurobioquímica y Conducta, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
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6
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Xiong Z, Raphael I, Olin M, Okada H, Li X, Kohanbash G. Glioblastoma vaccines: past, present, and opportunities. EBioMedicine 2024; 100:104963. [PMID: 38183840 PMCID: PMC10808938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104963] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most lethal central nervous systems (CNS) tumours in adults. As supplements to standard of care (SOC), various immunotherapies improve the therapeutic effect in other cancers. Among them, tumour vaccines can serve as complementary monotherapy or boost the clinical efficacy with other immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) therapy. Previous studies in GBM therapeutic vaccines have suggested that few neoantigens could be targeted in GBM due to low mutation burden, and single-peptide therapeutic vaccination had limited efficacy in tumour control as monotherapy. Combining diverse antigens, including neoantigens, tumour-associated antigens (TAAs), and pathogen-derived antigens, and optimizing vaccine design or vaccination strategy may help with clinical efficacy improvement. In this review, we discussed current GBM therapeutic vaccine platforms, evaluated and potential antigenic targets, current challenges, and perspective opportunities for efficacy improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zujian Xiong
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA; Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China
| | - Itay Raphael
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA
| | - Michael Olin
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Hideho Okada
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Xuejun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China; Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Brain Tumor Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008 PR China.
| | - Gary Kohanbash
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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7
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Trivedi V, Yang C, Klippel K, Yegorov O, von Roemeling C, Hoang-Minh L, Fenton G, Ogando-Rivas E, Castillo P, Moore G, Long-James K, Dyson K, Doonan B, Flores C, Mitchell DA. mRNA-based precision targeting of neoantigens and tumor-associated antigens in malignant brain tumors. Genome Med 2024; 16:17. [PMID: 38268001 PMCID: PMC10809449 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-024-01281-z] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advancements in the successful use of immunotherapy in treating a variety of solid tumors, applications in treating brain tumors have lagged considerably. This is due, at least in part, to the lack of well-characterized antigens expressed within brain tumors that can mediate tumor rejection; the low mutational burden of these tumors that limits the abundance of targetable neoantigens; and the immunologically "cold" tumor microenvironment that hampers the generation of sustained and productive immunologic responses. The field of mRNA-based therapeutics has experienced a boon following the universal approval of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. mRNA-based immunotherapeutics have also garnered widespread interest for their potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. In this study, we developed a novel and scalable approach for the production of personalized mRNA-based therapeutics that target multiple tumor rejection antigens in a single therapy for the treatment of refractory brain tumors. METHODS Tumor-specific neoantigens and aberrantly overexpressed tumor-associated antigens were identified for glioblastoma and medulloblastoma tumors using our cancer immunogenomics pipeline called Open Reading Frame Antigen Network (O.R.A.N). Personalized tumor antigen-specific mRNA vaccine was developed for each individual tumor model using selective gene capture and enrichment strategy. The immunogenicity and efficacy of the personalized mRNA vaccines was evaluated in combination with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy or adoptive cellular therapy with ex vivo expanded tumor antigen-specific lymphocytes in highly aggressive murine GBM models. RESULTS Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of the antigen-specific mRNA vaccines in eliciting robust anti-tumor immune responses in GBM hosts. Our findings substantiate an increase in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes characterized by enhanced effector function, both intratumorally and systemically, after antigen-specific mRNA-directed immunotherapy, resulting in a favorable shift in the tumor microenvironment from immunologically cold to hot. Capacity to generate personalized mRNA vaccines targeting human GBM antigens was also demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS We have established a personalized and customizable mRNA-therapeutic approach that effectively targets a plurality of tumor antigens and demonstrated potent anti-tumor response in preclinical brain tumor models. This platform mRNA technology uniquely addresses the challenge of tumor heterogeneity and low antigen burden, two key deficiencies in targeting the classically immunotherapy-resistant CNS malignancies, and possibly other cold tumor types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vrunda Trivedi
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Changlin Yang
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kelena Klippel
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Oleg Yegorov
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | | | - Lan Hoang-Minh
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Graeme Fenton
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | | | - Paul Castillo
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Ginger Moore
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kaytora Long-James
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Kyle Dyson
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Bently Doonan
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Catherine Flores
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Duane A Mitchell
- University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, BSB B1-118, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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Zhang G, Tang T, Chen Y, Huang X, Liang T. mRNA vaccines in disease prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:365. [PMID: 37726283 PMCID: PMC10509165 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01579-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as highly effective strategies in the prophylaxis and treatment of diseases, thanks largely although not totally to their extraordinary performance in recent years against the worldwide plague COVID-19. The huge superiority of mRNA vaccines regarding their efficacy, safety, and large-scale manufacture encourages pharmaceutical industries and biotechnology companies to expand their application to a diverse array of diseases, despite the nonnegligible problems in design, fabrication, and mode of administration. This review delves into the technical underpinnings of mRNA vaccines, covering mRNA design, synthesis, delivery, and adjuvant technologies. Moreover, this review presents a systematic retrospective analysis in a logical and well-organized manner, shedding light on representative mRNA vaccines employed in various diseases. The scope extends across infectious diseases, cancers, immunological diseases, tissue damages, and rare diseases, showcasing the versatility and potential of mRNA vaccines in diverse therapeutic areas. Furthermore, this review engages in a prospective discussion regarding the current challenge and potential direction for the advancement and utilization of mRNA vaccines. Overall, this comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, providing a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects, historical context, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines in the fight against various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinfeng Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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9
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Roque D, Cruz N, Ferreira HA, Reis CP, Matela N, Herculano-Carvalho M, Cascão R, Faria CC. Nanoparticle-Based Treatment in Glioblastoma. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1328. [PMID: 37763096 PMCID: PMC10532799 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13091328] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB) is a malignant glioma associated with a mean overall survival of 12 to 18 months, even with optimal treatment, due to its high relapse rate and treatment resistance. The standardized first-line treatment consists of surgery, which allows for diagnosis and cytoreduction, followed by stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Treatment failure can result from the poor passage of drugs through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The development of novel and more effective therapeutic approaches is paramount to increasing the life expectancy of GB patients. Nanoparticle-based treatments include epitopes that are designed to interact with specialized transport systems, ultimately allowing the crossing of the BBB, increasing therapeutic efficacy, and reducing systemic toxicity and drug degradation. Polymeric nanoparticles have shown promising results in terms of precisely directing drugs to the brain with minimal systemic side effects. Various methods of drug delivery that pass through the BBB, such as the stereotactic injection of nanoparticles, are being actively tested in vitro and in vivo in animal models. A significant variety of pre-clinical studies with polymeric nanoparticles for the treatment of GB are being conducted, with only a few nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems to date having entered clinical trials. Pre-clinical studies are key to testing the safety and efficacy of these novel anticancer therapies and will hopefully facilitate the testing of the clinical validity of this promising treatment method. Here we review the recent literature concerning the most frequently reported types of nanoparticles for the treatment of GB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Roque
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.R.); (M.H.-C.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Nuno Cruz
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, IBEB, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (N.C.); (H.A.F.); (C.P.R.); (N.M.)
- iMED.ULisboa, Research Institute for Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Hugo Alexandre Ferreira
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, IBEB, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (N.C.); (H.A.F.); (C.P.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Catarina Pinto Reis
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, IBEB, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (N.C.); (H.A.F.); (C.P.R.); (N.M.)
- iMED.ULisboa, Research Institute for Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nuno Matela
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, IBEB, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (N.C.); (H.A.F.); (C.P.R.); (N.M.)
| | - Manuel Herculano-Carvalho
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.R.); (M.H.-C.)
| | - Rita Cascão
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Claudia C. Faria
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.R.); (M.H.-C.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal;
- Clínica Universitária de Neurocirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
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Segura-Collar B, Hiller-Vallina S, de Dios O, Caamaño-Moreno M, Mondejar-Ruescas L, Sepulveda-Sanchez JM, Gargini R. Advanced immunotherapies for glioblastoma: tumor neoantigen vaccines in combination with immunomodulators. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:79. [PMID: 37165457 PMCID: PMC10171733 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01569-y] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Glial-origin brain tumors, including glioblastomas (GBM), have one of the worst prognoses due to their rapid and fatal progression. From an oncological point of view, advances in complete surgical resection fail to eliminate the entire tumor and the remaining cells allow a rapid recurrence, which does not respond to traditional therapeutic treatments. Here, we have reviewed new immunotherapy strategies in association with the knowledge of the immune micro-environment. To understand the best lines for the future, we address the advances in the design of neoantigen vaccines and possible new immune modulators. Recently, the efficacy and availability of vaccine development with different formulations, especially liposome plus mRNA vaccines, has been observed. We believe that the application of new strategies used with mRNA vaccines in combination with personalized medicine (guided by different omic's strategies) could give good results in glioma therapy. In addition, a large part of the possible advances in new immunotherapy strategies focused on GBM may be key improving current therapies of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), given the fact that this type of tumor has been highly refractory to ICI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Segura-Collar
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology and Neurooncology Unit, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba, S/N, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Hiller-Vallina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology and Neurooncology Unit, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba, S/N, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Olaya de Dios
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, UFIEC, 28222, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Marta Caamaño-Moreno
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology and Neurooncology Unit, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba, S/N, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Mondejar-Ruescas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology and Neurooncology Unit, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba, S/N, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan M Sepulveda-Sanchez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Gargini
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas I+12, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain.
- Pathology and Neurooncology Unit, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. de Córdoba, S/N, 28041, Madrid, Spain.
- Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, 28041, Madrid, Spain.
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Hosseinalizadeh H, Rahmati M, Ebrahimi A, O’Connor RS. Current Status and Challenges of Vaccination Therapy for Glioblastoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:435-446. [PMID: 36779991 PMCID: PMC10155120 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-22-0503] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), also known as grade IV astrocytoma, is the most common and deadly type of central nervous system malignancy in adults. Despite significant breakthroughs in current GBM treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the prognosis for late-stage glioblastoma remains bleak due to tumor recurrence following surgical resection. The poor prognosis highlights the evident and pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment. Vaccination has successfully treated patients with advanced colorectal and lung cancer. Therefore, the potential value of using tumor vaccines in treating glioblastoma is increasingly discussed as a monotherapy or in combination with other cellular immunotherapies. Cancer vaccination includes both passive administration of monoclonal antibodies and active vaccination procedures to activate, boost, or bias antitumor immunity against cancer cells. This article focuses on active immunotherapy with peptide, genetic (DNA, mRNA), and cell-based vaccines in treating GBM and reviews the various treatment approaches currently being tested. Although the ease of synthesis, relative safety, and ability to elicit tumor-specific immune responses have made these vaccines an invaluable tool for cancer treatment, more extensive cohort studies and better guidelines are needed to improve the efficacy of these vaccines in anti-GBM therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Hosseinalizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, 41376, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rahmati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, 41376, Rasht, Iran
| | - Ammar Ebrahimi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Rue Du Bugnon 7, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Roddy S O’Connor
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Guda MR, Tsung AJ, Asuthkar S, Velpula KK. Galectin-1 activates carbonic anhydrase IX and modulates glioma metabolism. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:574. [PMID: 35773253 PMCID: PMC9247167 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05024-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Galectins are a family of β-galactose-specific binding proteins residing within the cytosol or nucleus, with a highly conserved carbohydrate recognition domain across many species. Accumulating evidence shows that Galectin 1 (Gal-1) plays an essential role in cancer, and its expression correlates with tumor aggressiveness and progression. Our preliminary data showed Gal-1 promotes glioma stem cell (GSC) growth via increased Warburg effect. mRNA expression and clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The immunoblot analysis conducted using our cohort of human glioblastoma patient specimens (hGBM), confirmed Gal-1 upregulation in GBM. GC/MS analysis to evaluate the effects of Gal-1 depletion showed elevated levels of α-ketoglutaric acid, and citric acid with a concomitant reduction in lactic acid levels. Using Biolog microplate-1 mitochondrial functional assay, we confirmed that the depletion of Gal-1 increases the expression levels of the enzymes from the TCA cycle, suggesting a reversal of the Warburg phenotype. Manipulation of Gal-1 using RNA interference showed reduced ATP, lactate levels, cell viability, colony-forming abilities, and increased expression levels of genes implicated in the induction of apoptosis. Gal-1 exerts its metabolic role via regulating the expression of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA-IX), a surrogate marker for hypoxia. CA-IX functions downstream to Gal-1, and co-immunoprecipitation experiments along with proximity ligation assays confirm that Gal-1 physically associates with CA-IX to regulate its expression. Further, silencing of Gal-1 in mice models showed reduced tumor burden and increased survival compared to the mice implanted with GSC controls. Further investigation of Gal-1 in GSC progression and metabolic reprogramming is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheedhara R. Guda
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Andrew J. Tsung
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,Illinois Neurological Institute, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Swapna Asuthkar
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Kiran K. Velpula
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Pediatrics, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
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