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Boncompagni G, Tatangelo V, Lopresti L, Ulivieri C, Capitani N, Tangredi C, Finetti F, Marotta G, Frezzato F, Visentin A, Ciofini S, Gozzetti A, Bocchia M, Calzada-Fraile D, Martin Cofreces NB, Trentin L, Patrussi L, Baldari CT. Leukemic cell-secreted interleukin-9 suppresses cytotoxic T cell-mediated killing in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:144. [PMID: 38360867 PMCID: PMC10869739 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06528-6] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), contributing to disease progression and chemoresistance. Leukemic cells shape the TME into a pro-survival and immunosuppressive niche through contact-dependent and contact-independent interactions with the cellular components of the TME. Immune synapse (IS) formation is defective in CLL. Here we asked whether soluble factors released by CLL cells contribute to their protection from cytotoxic T cell (CTL)-mediated killing by interfering with this process. We found that healthy CTLs cultured in media conditioned by leukemic cells from CLL patients or Eμ-TCL1 mice upregulate the exhaustion marker PD-1 and become unable to form functional ISs and kill target cells. These defects were more pronounced when media were conditioned by leukemic cells lacking p66Shc, a proapoptotic adapter whose deficiency has been implicated in disease aggressiveness both in CLL and in the Eμ-TCL1 mouse model. Multiplex ELISA assays showed that leukemic cells from Eμ-TCL1 mice secrete abnormally elevated amounts of CCL22, CCL24, IL-9 and IL-10, which are further upregulated in the absence of p66Shc. Among these, IL-9 and IL-10 were also overexpressed in leukemic cells from CLL patients, where they inversely correlated with residual p66Shc. Using neutralizing antibodies or the recombinant cytokines we show that IL-9, but not IL-10, mediates both the enhancement in PD-1 expression and the suppression of effector functions in healthy CTLs. Our results demonstrate that IL-9 secreted by leukemic cells negatively modulates the anti-tumor immune abilities of CTLs, highlighting a new suppressive mechanism and a novel potential therapeutical target in CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nagaja Capitani
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Marotta
- Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, University Hospital, Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Frezzato
- Department of Medicine, Hematology and Clinical Immunology Branch, Padua University School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Visentin
- Department of Medicine, Hematology and Clinical Immunology Branch, Padua University School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Sara Ciofini
- Department of Medical Science, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gozzetti
- Department of Medical Science, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Monica Bocchia
- Department of Medical Science, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Diego Calzada-Fraile
- Immunology Unit from Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and Instituto de investigación Sanitaria La Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Noa B Martin Cofreces
- Immunology Unit from Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and Instituto de investigación Sanitaria La Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Livio Trentin
- Department of Medicine, Hematology and Clinical Immunology Branch, Padua University School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Laura Patrussi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
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Andreescu M, Berbec N, Tanase AD. Assessment of Impact of Human Leukocyte Antigen-Type and Cytokine-Type Responses on Outcomes after Targeted Therapy Currently Used to Treat Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12072731. [PMID: 37048814 PMCID: PMC10094967 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12072731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor growth and metastasis are reliant on intricate interactions between the host immune system and various counter-regulatory immune escape mechanisms employed by the tumor. Tumors can resist immune surveillance by modifying the expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules, which results in the impaired presentation of tumor-associated antigens, subsequently evading detection and destruction by the immune system. The management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is based on symptom severity and includes various types of targeted therapies, including rituximab, obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, zanubrutinib, idelalisib, and venetoclax. These therapies rely on the recognition of specific peptides presented by HLAs on the surface of tumor cells by T cells, leading to an immune response. HLA class I molecules are found in most human cell types and interact with T-cell receptors (TCRs) to activate T cells, which play a vital role in inducing adaptive immune responses. However, tumor cells may evade T-cell attack by downregulating HLA expression, limiting the efficacy of HLA-dependent immunotherapy. The prognosis of CLL largely depends on the presence or absence of genetic abnormalities, such as del(17p), TP53 point mutations, and IGHV somatic hypermutation status. These oral targeted therapies alone or in combination with anti-CD20 antibodies have replaced chemoimmunotherapy as the primary treatment for CLL. In this review, we summarize the current clinical evidence on the impact of HLA- and cytokine-type responses on outcomes after targeted therapies currently used to treat CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Andreescu
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Berbec
- Department of Hematology, Coltea Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Daniela Tanase
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Bucharest, 040051 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Fundeni Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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Uchendu I, Zhilenkova A, Pirogova Y, Basova M, Bagmet L, Kohanovskaia I, Ngaha Y, Ikebunwa O, Sekacheva M. Cytokines as Potential Therapeutic Targets and their Role in the Diagnosis and Prediction of Cancers. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:2552-2567. [PMID: 37916493 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128268111231024054240] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The death rate from cancer is declining as a result of earlier identification and more advanced treatments. Nevertheless, a number of unfavourable adverse effects, including prolonged, long-lasting inflammation and reduced immune function, usually coexist with anti-cancer therapies and lead to a general decline in quality of life. Improvements in standardized comprehensive therapy and early identification of a variety of aggressive tumors remain the main objectives of cancer research. Tumor markers in those with cancer are tumor- associated proteins that are clinically significant. Even while several tumor markers are routinely used, they don't always provide reliable diagnostic information. Serum cytokines are promising markers of tumor stage, prognosis, and responsiveness to therapy. In fact, several cytokines are currently proposed as potential biomarkers in a variety of cancers. It has actually been proposed that the study of circulatory cytokines together with biomarkers that are particular to cancer can enhance and accelerate cancer diagnosis and prediction, particularly via blood samples that require minimal to the absence of invasion. The purpose of this review was to critically examine relevant primary research literature in order to elucidate the role and importance of a few identified serum cytokines as prospective therapeutic targets in oncological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikenna Uchendu
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Angelina Zhilenkova
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuliya Pirogova
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria Basova
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Leonid Bagmet
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Iana Kohanovskaia
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Yvan Ngaha
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Obinna Ikebunwa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Biotechnology, First Moscow State Medical University of The Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Marina Sekacheva
- Institute for Personalized Oncology, Center for Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare, First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
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Interleukin (IL)-9 Supports the Tumor-Promoting Environment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246301. [PMID: 34944921 PMCID: PMC8699356 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Interleukin 9 (IL-9), a soluble factor secreted by immune cells, has been found in several tumor niches where, depending on the specific tumor type, it either promotes or counteracts tumor development. Recently, IL-9 has been implicated in the development of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, although the underlying molecular mechanism remains unknown. Here, we summarize the current knowledge concerning the roles of IL-9 in disease, with a focus on its implication in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Abstract Interleukin (IL)-9 is a soluble factor secreted by immune cells into the microenvironment. Originally identified as a mediator of allergic responses, IL-9 has been detected in recent years in several tumor niches. In solid tumors, it mainly promotes anti-tumor immune responses, while in hematologic malignancies, it sustains the growth and survival of neoplastic cells. IL-9 has been recently implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its contribution to this complex neoplasia are still unclear. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of IL-9 in the tumor microenvironment, with a focus on its role in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
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Impact of Immune Parameters and Immune Dysfunctions on the Prognosis of Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153856. [PMID: 34359757 PMCID: PMC8345723 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), immune alterations—affecting both the innate and adaptive immunity—are very common. As a clinical consequence, patients with CLL frequently present with autoimmune phenomena, increased risk of infections and second malignancies. The aim of this review article is to present available data on CLL-associated alterations of immune parameters that correlate with known prognostic markers and with clinical outcome. Also, data on the impact of immune-related clinical manifestations on the prognosis of patients with CLL will be discussed. Abstract Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by a wide spectrum of immune alterations, affecting both the innate and adaptive immunity. These immune dysfunctions strongly impact the immune surveillance, facilitate tumor progression and eventually affect the disease course. Quantitative and functional alterations involving conventional T cells, γδ T cells, regulatory T cells, NK and NKT cells, and myeloid cells, together with hypogammaglobulinemia, aberrations in the complement pathways and altered cytokine signature have been reported in patients with CLL. Some of these immune parameters have been shown to associate with other CLL-related characteristics with a known prognostic relevance or to correlate with disease prognosis. Also, in CLL, the complex immune response dysfunctions eventually translate in clinical manifestations, including autoimmune phenomena, increased risk of infections and second malignancies. These clinical issues are overall the most common complications that affect the course and management of CLL, and they also may impact overall disease prognosis.
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Allegra A, Musolino C, Tonacci A, Pioggia G, Casciaro M, Gangemi S. Clinico-Biological Implications of Modified Levels of Cytokines in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Possible Therapeutic Role. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020524. [PMID: 32102441 PMCID: PMC7072434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) is the main cause of mortality among hematologic diseases in Western nations. B-CLL is correlated with an intense alteration of the immune system. The altered functions of innate immune elements and adaptive immune factors are interconnected in B-CLL and are decisive for its onset, evolution, and therapeutic response. Modifications in the cytokine balance could support the growth of the leukemic clone via a modulation of cellular proliferation and apoptosis, as some cytokines have been reported to be able to affect the life of B-CLL cells in vivo. In this review, we will examine the role played by cytokines in the cellular dynamics of B-CLL patients, interpret the contradictions sometimes present in the literature regarding their action, and evaluate the possibility of manipulating their production in order to intervene in the natural history of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Allegra
- Division of Haematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.M.)
| | - Caterina Musolino
- Division of Haematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (C.M.)
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | - Marco Casciaro
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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