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Corallo S, Lasagna A, Filippi B, Alaimo D, Tortorella A, Serra F, Vanoli A, Pedrazzoli P. Unlocking the Potential: Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) in Gastric Cancer and Future Treatment Prospects, a Literature Review. Pathogens 2024; 13:728. [PMID: 39338919 PMCID: PMC11435077 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13090728] [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: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a complex disease with various etiologies. While Helicobacter pylori infection is still one of the leading risk factors for GC, increasing evidence suggests a link between GC and other infective agents such as Epstein Bar Virus (EBV). EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is now recognized as a distinct subgroup of GC, and the complex interactions between the virus and gastric mucosa may influence its development. A recent integrative analysis of the genome and proteome of GC tissues by The Cancer Genome Atlas project has identified EBVaGC as a specific subtype characterized by PIK3CA and ARID1A mutations, extensive DNA hyper-methylation, and activation of immune signaling pathways. These molecular characteristics are markers of the unique molecular profile of this subset of GC and are potential targets for therapy. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on EBVaGC. It will focus on the epidemiology, clinic-pathological features, and genetic characteristics of EBVaGC. Additionally, it will discuss recent data indicating the potential use of EBV infection as a predictive biomarker of response to chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors. The review also delves into potential therapeutic approaches for EBVaGC, including targeted therapies and adoptive immunotherapy, highlighting the promising potential of EBV as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Corallo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Angioletta Lasagna
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Filippi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Domiziana Alaimo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Tortorella
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Serra
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vanoli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Pedrazzoli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Kostelecka K, Bryliński Ł, Komar O, Michalczyk J, Miłosz A, Biłogras J, Woliński F, Forma A, Baj J. An Overview of the Spices Used for the Prevention and Potential Treatment of Gastric Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1611. [PMID: 38672692 PMCID: PMC11049028 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081611] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) ranks third in terms of cancer-related deaths and is the fifth most commonly diagnosed type of cancer. Its risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, Epstein-Barr virus infection, the consumption of broiled and charbroiled animal meats, salt-preserved and smoke-enhanced foods, alcohol drinking, tobacco smoking, exposure to ionizing radiation, and positive family history. The limited effectiveness of conventional therapies and the widespread risk factors of GC encourage the search for new methods of treatment and prevention. In the quest for cheap and commonly available medications, numerous studies focus on herbal medicine, traditional brews, and spices. In this review, we outline the potential use of spices, including turmeric, ginger, garlic, black cumin, chili pepper, saffron, black pepper, rosemary, galangal, coriander, wasabi, cinnamon, oregano, cardamom, fenugreek, caraway, clove, dill, thyme, Piper sarmentosum, basil, as well as the compounds they contain, in the prevention and treatment of GC. We present the potential molecular mechanisms responsible for the effectivity of a given seasoning substance and their impact on GC cells. We discuss their potential effects on proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. For most of the spices discussed, we also outline the unavailability and side effects of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kostelecka
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Łukasz Bryliński
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Olga Komar
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Justyna Michalczyk
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Agata Miłosz
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Jan Biłogras
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
| | - Filip Woliński
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Alicja Forma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.K.); (Ł.B.); (O.K.); (J.M.); (A.M.); (J.B.); (J.B.)
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Yee EJ, Gilbert D, Kaplan J, van Dyk L, Kim SS, Berg L, Clambey E, Wani S, McCarter MD, Stewart CL. Immune Landscape of Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Gastric Cancer: Analysis From a Western Academic Institution. J Surg Res 2024; 296:742-750. [PMID: 38368775 PMCID: PMC10947842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2024.01.043] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) may be a meaningful biomarker for potential benefit from immunotherapy. Further investigation is needed to characterize the immune landscape of EBVaGC. We assessed our institutional frequency of surgically treated EBVaGC and analyzed the immunologic biomarker profile and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) phenotypes of a series of EBVaGC compared to non-EBVaGC cases. METHODS Available tissue samples from all patients with biopsy-confirmed gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent resection with curative intent from 2012 to 2020 at our institution were collected. In situ hybridization was used to assess EBV status; multiplex immunohistochemistry was performed to assess mismatch repair status, Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, and phenotypic characterization of TILs. RESULTS Sixty-eight samples were included in this study. EBVaGC was present in 3/68 (4%) patients. Among all patients, 27/68 (40%) had positive PD-L1 expression; two of three (67%) EBVaGC patients exhibited positive PD-L1 expression. Compared to non-EBVaGC, EBV-positive tumors showed 5-fold to 10-fold higher density of TILs in both tumor and stroma and substantially elevated CD8+ T cell to Tregulatory cell ratio. The memory subtypes of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were upregulated in EBVaGC tumors and stromal tissue compared to non-EBVaGC. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of surgically resected EBVaGC at our center was 4%. EBVaGC tumors harbor elevated levels of TILs, including memory subtypes, within both tumor and tumor-related stroma. Robust TIL presence and upregulated PD-L1 positivity in EBVaGC may portend promising responses to immunotherapy agents. Further investigation into routine EBV testing and TIL phenotype of patients with gastric cancer to predict response to immunotherapy may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott J Yee
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado.
| | | | - Jeffrey Kaplan
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Linda van Dyk
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sunnie S Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Leslie Berg
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Eric Clambey
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sachin Wani
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Martin D McCarter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Camille L Stewart
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
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Salnikov MY, MacNeil KM, Mymryk JS. The viral etiology of EBV-associated gastric cancers contributes to their unique pathology, clinical outcomes, treatment responses and immune landscape. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1358511. [PMID: 38596668 PMCID: PMC11002251 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1358511] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a pathogen known to cause a number of malignancies, often taking years for them to develop after primary infection. EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is one such malignancy, and is an immunologically, molecularly and pathologically distinct entity from EBV-negative gastric cancer (EBVnGC). In comparison with EBVnGCs, EBVaGCs overexpress a number of immune regulatory genes to help form an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), have improved prognosis, and overall have an "immune-hot" phenotype. This review provides an overview of the histopathology, clinical features and clinical outcomes of EBVaGCs. We also summarize the differences between the TMEs of EBVaGCs and EBVnGCs, which includes significant differences in cell composition and immune infiltration. A list of available EBVaGC and EBVnGC gene expression datasets and computational tools are also provided within this review. Finally, an overview is provided of the various chemo- and immuno-therapeutics available in treating gastric cancers (GCs), with a focus on EBVaGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Y. Salnikov
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Katelyn M. MacNeil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Joe S. Mymryk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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Rugge M, Genta RM, Malfertheiner P, Dinis-Ribeiro M, El-Serag H, Graham DY, Kuipers EJ, Leung WK, Park JY, Rokkas T, Schulz C, El-Omar EM. RE.GA.IN.: the Real-world Gastritis Initiative-updating the updates. Gut 2024; 73:407-441. [PMID: 38383142 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-331164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
At the end of the last century, a far-sighted 'working party' held in Sydney, Australia addressed the clinicopathological issues related to gastric inflammatory diseases. A few years later, an international conference held in Houston, Texas, USA critically updated the seminal Sydney classification. In line with these initiatives, Kyoto Global Consensus Report, flanked by the Maastricht-Florence conferences, added new clinical evidence to the gastritis clinicopathological puzzle.The most relevant topics related to the gastric inflammatory diseases have been addressed by the Real-world Gastritis Initiative (RE.GA.IN.), from disease definitions to the clinical diagnosis and prognosis. This paper reports the conclusions of the RE.GA.IN. consensus process, which culminated in Venice in November 2022 after more than 8 months of intense global scientific deliberations. A forum of gastritis scholars from five continents participated in the multidisciplinary RE.GA.IN. consensus. After lively debates on the most controversial aspects of the gastritis spectrum, the RE.GA.IN. Faculty amalgamated complementary knowledge to distil patient-centred, evidence-based statements to assist health professionals in their real-world clinical practice. The sections of this report focus on: the epidemiology of gastritis; Helicobacter pylori as dominant aetiology of environmental gastritis and as the most important determinant of the gastric oncogenetic field; the evolving knowledge on gastric autoimmunity; the clinicopathological relevance of gastric microbiota; the new diagnostic horizons of endoscopy; and the clinical priority of histologically reporting gastritis in terms of staging. The ultimate goal of RE.GA.IN. was and remains the promotion of further improvement in the clinical management of patients with gastritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Rugge
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
- Azienda Zero, Veneto Tumour Registry, Padua, Italy
| | - Robert M Genta
- Gastrointestinal Pathology, Inform Diagnostics Research Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Peter Malfertheiner
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Ludwig Maximilian Universität Klinikum München, Munich, Germany
- Klinik für Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie und Infektiologie, Otto-von-Guericke Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Mario Dinis-Ribeiro
- Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center & RISE@CI-IPO, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Gastroenterology Department, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Hashem El-Serag
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Houston VA Health Services Research & Development Center of Excellence, Michael E DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David Y Graham
- Department of Medicine, Michael E DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ernst J Kuipers
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jin Young Park
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Theodore Rokkas
- Gastroenterology, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Emad M El-Omar
- Microbiome Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Han Z, Wang N, Qiao Q, He X, Wang N. Association of PD-L1 Expression with Clinicopathologic Characters in Gastric Cancer: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:3198-3216. [PMID: 37921182 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673263784230922060257] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The expression level of programmed death ligand-1(PD-L1) in patients with gastric cancer is the key to determining the use of immune drugs. The relationship between PD-L1 expression level and clinical characteristics is worth exploring. METHODS By setting the search terms correlated to PD-L1 and gastric cancer, a nearly comprehensive search was carried out in four major databases, and the deadline for searching was September 1, 2022. The retrieved documents were further screened by strict inclusion and exclusion criteria after removing the duplication. Next, the quality of the included studies was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) scale. Finally, the STATA15.1 software was used to process data and draw plots, and the odds ratios (ORs) were adopted to assess the pooled effect size. RESULTS A total of 85 works of literature were included in this study through screening strictly, and detailed data were extracted after evaluating the quality of the literature. The process of analysis was conducted in the whole population, Asia-Africa population, European and American population, and Asian population with CPS≥1, amd all found that the expression of PD-L1 in gastric cancer was correlated with age, tumor size, EBV infection, Her-2 expression and microsatellite status. However, the subgroup of the region also found some differences in Asian and Western regions, which was interesting and worth studying further. The included research of this study did not have significant publish bias. CONCLUSION After careful analysis, this study found that age (>60 years), tumor size (>5cm), EBV infection (+), Her-2 expression (+), microsatellite status (MSI), and mismatch repair status (dMMR) were risk factors for positive expression of PD-L1 in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Han
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Qing Qiao
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xianli He
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
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Sausen DG, Poirier MC, Spiers LM, Smith EN. Mechanisms of T cell evasion by Epstein-Barr virus and implications for tumor survival. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1289313. [PMID: 38179040 PMCID: PMC10764432 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1289313] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a prevalent oncogenic virus estimated to infect greater than 90% of the world's population. Following initial infection, it establishes latency in host B cells. EBV has developed a multitude of techniques to avoid detection by the host immune system and establish lifelong infection. T cells, as important contributors to cell-mediated immunity, make an attractive target for these immunoevasive strategies. Indeed, EBV has evolved numerous mechanisms to modulate T cell responses. For example, it can augment expression of programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1), which inhibits T cell function, and downregulates the interferon response, which has a strong impact on T cell regulation. It also modulates interleukin secretion and can influence major histocompatibility complex (MHC) expression and presentation. In addition to facilitating persistent EBV infection, these immunoregulatory mechanisms have significant implications for evasion of the immune response by tumor cells. This review dissects the mechanisms through which EBV avoids detection by host T cells and discusses how these mechanisms play into tumor survival. It concludes with an overview of cancer treatments targeting T cells in the setting of EBV-associated malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. G. Sausen
- School of Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
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Costache S, de Havilland R, Diaz McLynn S, Sajin M, Baltan A, Wedden S, D’Arrigo C. Implementing an On-Slide Molecular Classification of Gastric Cancer: A Tissue Microarray Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:55. [PMID: 38201483 PMCID: PMC10778243 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010055] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and the fourth cause of cancer death worldwide. Personalised treatment improves GC outcomes. A molecular classification is needed to choose the appropriate therapy. A classification that uses on-slide biomarkers and formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue is preferable to comprehensive genomic analysis. In 2016, Setia and colleagues proposed an on-slide classification; however, this is not in widespread use. We propose a modification of this classification that has six subgroups: GC associated with Epstein-Barr virus (GC EBV+), GC with mismatch-repair deficiency (GC dMMR), GC with epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (GC EMT), GC with chromosomal instability (GC CIN), CG that is genomically stable (GC GS) and GC not otherwise specified (GC NOS). This classification also has a provision for biomarkers for current or emerging targeted therapies (Her2, PD-L1 and Claudin18.2). Here, we assess the implementation and feasibility of this inclusive working classification. Materials and Methods: We constructed a tissue microarray library from a cohort of 79 resection cases from FFPE tissue archives. We used a restricted panel of on-slide markers (EBER, MMR, E-cadherin, beta-catenin and p53), defined their interpretation algorithms and assigned each case to a specific molecular subtype. Results: GC EBV(+) cases were 6%, GC dMMR cases were 20%, GC EMT cases were 14%, GC CIN cases were 23%, GC GS cases were 29%, and GC NOS cases were 8%. Conclusions: This working classification uses markers that are widely available in histopathology and are easy to interpret. A diagnostic subgroup is obtained for 92% of the cases. The proportion of cases in each subgroup is in keeping with other published series. Widescale implementation appears feasible. A study using endoscopic biopsies is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Costache
- Pathology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.S.); (A.B.)
- Poundbury Cancer Institute, Dorchester DT1 3BJ, UK; (R.d.H.); (S.D.M.); (C.D.)
| | | | - Sofia Diaz McLynn
- Poundbury Cancer Institute, Dorchester DT1 3BJ, UK; (R.d.H.); (S.D.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Maria Sajin
- Pathology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.S.); (A.B.)
- Pathology Department, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adelina Baltan
- Pathology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.S.); (A.B.)
- Poundbury Cancer Institute, Dorchester DT1 3BJ, UK; (R.d.H.); (S.D.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Sarah Wedden
- Cancer Diagnostic Quality Assurance Services (CADQAS), Dorchester DT1 3BJ, UK;
| | - Corrado D’Arrigo
- Poundbury Cancer Institute, Dorchester DT1 3BJ, UK; (R.d.H.); (S.D.M.); (C.D.)
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Huang X, Fang J, Huang L, Chen H, Chen H, Chai T, Ye Z, Chen H, Xu Q, Du Y, Yu P. SOX combined with sintilimab versus SOX alone in the perioperative management of locally advanced gastric cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis. Gastric Cancer 2023; 26:1040-1050. [PMID: 37768447 PMCID: PMC10640399 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-023-01431-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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of SOX combined with a programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitor compared with SOX alone in the perioperative management of locally advanced gastric cancer and to explore biomarkers that may predict response to anti-PD-1 therapy. METHODS Data of patients with clinical stage T3-4aN0-3M0 (IIb-III) gastric cancer were reviewed to create a primary database. Patients treated with perioperative SOX combined with sintilimab were included in Group A, while those treated with SOX alone were included in Group B. After one-to-one propensity score matching, pathological response and short-term survival outcomes were compared between the two groups. In addition, potential efficacy-related biomarkers were analyzed. RESULTS Between January 2018 and December 2022, a total of 150 patients were included in the analysis, with 75 patients in each group. The rates of pathological complete response (21.3% vs. 4.0%; P = 0.001) and major pathological response (45.3% vs. 22.7%; P = 0.003) in Group A were statistically higher than those in Group B. There was no significant difference in 1-year overall survival (92.8% vs. 92.0%; P = 0.392) and disease-free survival (88.9% vs. 88.0%; P = 0.357) between the two groups. Subgroup analysis of Group A showed that the pathological complete response (40.6% vs. 8.6%; P = 0.002) and major pathological response (65.6% vs. 28.6%; P = 0.002) rates were significantly higher in programmed death ligand-1-positive patients with a combined positive score of ≥ 5. A pathological complete response was achieved in 42.9% patients (3/7) with mismatch repair deficiency. For the two patients confirmed as Epstein-Barr virus-positive, one patient achieved a pathological complete response and the other achieved a major pathological response. CONCLUSIONS The adoption of SOX combined with a PD-1 inhibitor may improve the pathological response rate of patients with locally advanced gastric cancer, especially those with programmed death ligand-1 combined positive score ≥ 5, Epstein-Barr virus-positivity and mismatch repair deficiency. However, further prospective studies are still warranted to confirm the long-term survival benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingmao Huang
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingquan Fang
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling Huang
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Han Chen
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tengjiao Chai
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zeyao Ye
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hanguang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, No. 2 People's Hospital of Yuhang District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yian Du
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pengfei Yu
- Department of Gastric Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Baccili Cury Megid T, Farooq AR, Wang X, Elimova E. Gastric Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms, Novel Targets, and Immunotherapies: From Bench to Clinical Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5075. [PMID: 37894443 PMCID: PMC10605200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205075] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a global health concern, ranking fifth in cancer diagnoses and fourth in cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite recent advancements in diagnosis, most cases are detected at advanced stages, resulting in poor outcomes. However, recent breakthroughs in genome analysis have identified biomarkers that hold positive clinical significance for GC treatment. These biomarkers and classifications offer the potential for more precise diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for GC patients. In this review, we explore the classification and molecular pathways in this disease, highlighting potential biomarkers that have emerged in recent studies including targeted therapies and immunotherapies. These advancements provide a promising direction for improving the management of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elena Elimova
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada; (T.B.C.M.); (A.R.F.); (X.W.)
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11
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Shin WS, Xie F, Chen B, Yu J, Lo KW, Tse GMK, To KF, Kang W. Exploring the Microbiome in Gastric Cancer: Assessing Potential Implications and Contextualizing Microorganisms beyond H. pylori and Epstein-Barr Virus. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4993. [PMID: 37894360 PMCID: PMC10605912 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204993] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
While previous research has primarily focused on the impact of H. pylori and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), emerging evidence suggests that other microbial influences, including viral and fungal infections, may also contribute to gastric cancer (GC) development. The intricate interactions between these microbes and the host's immune response provide a more comprehensive understanding of gastric cancer pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. The review highlights the roles of established players such as H. pylori and EBV and the potential impacts of gut bacteria, mainly Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and fungi such as Candida albicans. Advanced sequencing technologies offer unprecedented insights into the complexities of the gastric microbiome, from microbial diversity to potential diagnostic applications. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential for advanced GC diagnosis and therapies through a better understanding of the gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Sum Shin
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
| | - Fuda Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
- CUHK—Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Bonan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
- CUHK—Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Jun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Kwok Wai Lo
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
| | - Gary M. K. Tse
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
| | - Ka Fai To
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Wei Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.S.S.); (F.X.); (B.C.); (K.W.L.); (G.M.K.T.); (K.F.T.)
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
- CUHK—Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518000, China
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12
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Akade E, Bahadoram M, Parsanahad M. SNHG8 and its role in Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer: Is NF-κB involved? CANCER PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPY 2023; 1:224-226. [PMID: 38327835 PMCID: PMC10846325 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpt.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Esma'il Akade
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, 1579461357, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bahadoram
- Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathy Research Center, Research Institute of Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, 1579461357, Iran
| | - Mehdi Parsanahad
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, 1579461357, Iran
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13
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An G, He XC, Bai J, Wang J. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are effective in the treatment of Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33377. [PMID: 37000076 PMCID: PMC10063274 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignancies globally, and its occurrence and development are associated with genetic, dietary, biological, and immune factors. Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC), as a special subtype of GC, has become a research hotspot in recent years. In patients with advanced GC, Epstein-Barr virus infection is closely related to lymph node metastasis, depth of tumor invasion, and poor prognosis. There is great clinical need for a new treatment modality for EBVaGC. Advances in molecular biology and cancer genetics have led to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); patients treated with ICIs experience clinical benefit and few adverse effects. PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSES We report a 31-year-old male with advanced EBVaGC and multiple sites of lymph node metastasis who was intolerant to multiple lines of chemotherapy. INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOME After immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment, both primary and metastatic tumors shrank significantly without noticeable adverse reactions. After 21 months of progression-free status, the patient underwent R0 resection. LESSONS This case report provides evidence for the use of ICIs in treating EBVaGC. It also shows that detection of Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small nuclear RNA may be a prognostic factor in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaili An
- Department of Internal Medicine Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Cheng He
- Department of Internal Medicine Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jun Bai
- Department of Internal Medicine Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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14
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Yoon J, Kim TY, Oh DY. Recent Progress in Immunotherapy for Gastric Cancer. J Gastric Cancer 2023; 23:207-223. [PMID: 36751000 PMCID: PMC9911614 DOI: 10.5230/jgc.2023.23.e10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Under the standard of care, patients with advanced GC (AGC) have a median survival time of approximately 12-15 months. With the emergence of immunotherapy as a key therapeutic strategy in medical oncology, relevant changes are expected in the systemic treatment of GC. In the phase III ATTRACTION-2 trial, nivolumab, a monoclonal anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) antibody, as a third- or later-line treatment improved overall survival (OS) compared with placebo in patients with AGC. Furthermore, nivolumab in combination with 5-fluorouracil and platinum as a first-line treatment improved OS in patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-negative AGC in the global phase III CheckMate-649 study. Another anti-PD-1 antibody, pembrolizumab, in combination with trastuzumab and cytotoxic chemotherapy as a first-line treatment, significantly improved the overall response rate in patients with HER2-positive AGC. Therefore, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are essential components of the current treatment of GC. Subsequent treatments after ICI combination therapy, such as ICI rechallenge or combination therapy with agents having other modes of action, are being actively investigated to date. On the basis of the success of immunotherapy in the treatment of AGC, various clinical trials are underway to apply this therapeutic strategy in the perioperative and postoperative settings for patients with early GC. This review describes recent progress in immunotherapy and potential immunotherapy biomarkers for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeesun Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Yong Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Do-Youn Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Integrated Major in Innovative Medical Science, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea.
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15
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Zhang S, Qiu C, Yu H, Xu Y, Xu X. Prognostic value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in gastric cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1070019. [PMID: 37143942 PMCID: PMC10153754 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1070019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a cost-effective and easily identifiable inflammatory biomarker that has been shown to be closely associated with tumor prognosis and predict survival in patients with multiple malignancies. However, the predictive value of NLR in patients with gastric cancer (GC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has not been fully explored. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to explore the potential of NLR as a predictor of survival in this population. Methods We systematically searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases from inception to the present for observational researches on NLR and its relationship with progression or survival in GC patients receiving ICIs. To assess the prognostic significance of NLR on overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS), we used fixed or random-effect models to derive and combine hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We also examined the relationship between NLR and treatment efficacy by calculating relative risks (RRs) with 95% CIs for objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) in patients with GC receiving ICIs. Results Nine studies of 806 patients were eligible. OS and PFS data were obtained from 9 and 5 studies, respectively. In nine studies, NLR was associated with poor survival, the pooled HR was 1.98 (95% CI 1.67- 2.35, p < 0.001), indicating a significant association between high NLR and worse OS. We conducted subgroup analyses based on study characteristics to confirm the robustness of our findings. A relationship between NLR and PFS were reported in five studies with a HR of 1.49 (95% CI 0.99- 2.23, p = 0.056), which was not significantly associated. Pooling four studies that examined the correlation between NLR and ORR/DCR in GC patients, we observed a significant correlation between NLR and ORR (RR = 0.51, p = 0.003), but no significant correlation between NLR and DCR (RR = 0.48, p = 0.111). Conclusion In summary, this meta-analysis indicates that increased NLR is significantly linked to worse OS in patients with GC receiving ICIs. In addition, lowering NLR can improve ORR. Thus, NLR can serve as a predictor for prognosis and treatment response in GC patients treated with ICIs. Nevertheless, further high-quality prospective studies are required to verify our findings in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siheng Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Public Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chao Qiu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hanzhi Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jining First People's Hospital, Jining, China
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16
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Sarantis P, Trifylli EM, Koustas E, Papavassiliou KA, Karamouzis MV, Papavassiliou AG. Immune Microenvironment and Immunotherapeutic Management in Virus-Associated Digestive System Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13612. [PMID: 36362398 PMCID: PMC9655697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer is a multifactorial phenomenon, while it constitutes a major global health problem. Viruses are an important factor that is involved in tumorigenesis and is associated with 12.1% of all cancer cases. Major examples of oncogenic viruses which are closely associated with the digestive system are HBV, HCV, EBV, HPV, JCV, and CMV. EBV, HPV, JCV, and CMV directly cause oncogenesis by expressing oncogenic proteins that are encoded in their genome. In contrast, HBV and HCV are correlated indirectly with carcinogenesis by causing chronic inflammation in the infected organs. In addition, the tumor microenvironment contains various immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, as well as several growth factors, cytokines, and other tumor-secreted molecules that play a key role in tumor growth, progression, and migration, while they are closely interrelated with the virus. The presence of T-regulatory and B-regulatory cells in the tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the anti-tumor immune reaction. The tumor immune microenvironments differ in each type of cancer and depend on viral infection. The alterations in the immune microenvironment caused by viruses are also reflected in the effectiveness of immunotherapy. The present review aims at shedding light on the association between viruses and digestive system malignancies, the characteristics of the tumor immune microenvironment that develop, and the possible treatments that can be administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Sarantis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni-Myrto Trifylli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Share Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Koustas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Share Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Michalis V. Karamouzis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Parmar K, Subramanyam S, Attwood K, Appiah D, Fountzilas C, Mukherjee S. Anti PD-1/Anti PDL-1 Inhibitors in Advanced Gastroesophageal Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Phase 2/3 Randomized Controlled Trials. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1953. [PMID: 36145703 PMCID: PMC9501109 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the treatment for gastroesophageal cancers (GEC). It is important to investigate the factors that influence the response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 ICIs. Objective: To assess the benefits of PD-1/PD-L1 ICIs in advanced GEC and perform subgroup analysis to identify patient populations who would benefit from ICI. Data sources: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched from database inception to September 2021 for all relevant articles. We also reviewed abstracts and presentations from all major conference proceedings including relevant meetings of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) during the last four years (2018 to 2021) and reviewed citation lists. Study selection, data extraction, and synthesis: Full articles and presentations were further assessed if the information suggested that the study was a phase 2/3 randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor either alone, or in combination with standard therapy vs. standard therapy in advanced GEC. The full text of the resulting studies/presentations and extracted data were reviewed independently according to PRISMA guidelines. Main outcomes and measures: The main outcomes were OS, PFS, and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs). Results: A total of 168 studies were assessed for eligibility, and 17 RCTs with 12,312 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was an OS benefit in the overall population with ICIs (HR 0.78; 95% CI 0.73−0.83 p < 0.001). Immunotherapy showed better OS benefit in males (HR 0.77 95% CI 0.72−0.83; p < 0.001) than females (HR 0.89; 95% CI 0.80−0.99 p < 0.03), esophageal primary tumors (HR 0.70 95% CI 0.64−0.76 p < 0.001) vs. gastric cancer (HR 0.84 95% CI 0.74−0.94 p 0.002) or GEJ cancer (HR 0.84 95% CI 0.72−0.98 p 0.024) and in squamous cell carcinoma (HR 0.71 95% CI 0.66−0.77 p < 0.001) vs. adenocarcinoma (HR 0.85 95% CI 0.78−0.93 p < 0.001). PD-L1 positive patients seemed to benefit more (HR 0.74 95% CI 0.67−0.82 p < 0.001) compared to PD-L1 negative patients (HR 0.86 95% CI 0.74−1.00 p < 0.043), and Asians showed OS benefit (HR 0.76 95% CI 0.67−0.87 p < 0.001) compared to their White counterparts (HR 0.92 95% CI 0.74−1.14; p 0.424). Conclusions and relevance: ICIs improve survival in advanced GEC without significantly increasing the side effects. However, certain subgroups of patients such as males, Asians, and those with esophageal primary, PD-L1 positive tumors and squamous cell carcinoma benefit more from such treatments. Further translational research is needed to understand the mechanistic links and develop new biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanak Parmar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Sai Subramanyam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Harlan, KY 40831, USA
| | - Kristopher Attwood
- Department of Epidemiology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Duke Appiah
- Department of Public Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Christos Fountzilas
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Sarbajit Mukherjee
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
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