1
|
Jang J, He Z, Huang L, Hwang JY, Kim MY, Cho JY. Upregulation of NK cell activity, cytokine expression, and NF-κB pathway by ginsenoside concentrates from Panax ginseng berries in healthy mice and macrophage cell lines. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 335:118681. [PMID: 39121929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Panax ginseng (P. ginseng) C.A. Meyer. Has been studied for decades for its various biological activities, especially in terms of immune-regulatory properties. Traditionally, it has been known that root, leaves, and fruits of P. ginseng were eaten for improving body's Qi and homeostasis. Also, these were used to protect body from various types of infectious diseases. However, molecular mechanisms of immunomodulatory activities of ginseng berries have not been systemically studied as often as other parts of the plant. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this research is to discover the regulatory effects of P. ginseng berries, more importantly, their ginsenosides, on innate immune responses and to elucidate the molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ginseng berry concentrate (GBC) was orally injected into BALB/c mice for 30 days, and spleens were extracted for evaluation of immune-regulatory effects. Murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells were used for detailed molecular mechanism studies. Splenic natural killer (NK) cells were isolated using the magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) system, and the cytotoxic activity of isolated NK cells was measured using a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay. The splenic immune cell population was determined by flow-cytometry. NF-κB promoter activity was assessed by in vitro luciferase assay. Expression of inflammatory proteins and cytokines of the spleen and RAW264.7 cells were evaluated using western blotting and real-time PCR, respectively. RESULTS The GBC enhanced cytotoxic activity of NK cells and the immune-regulation-related splenic cell population. Moreover, GBC promoted NF-κB promoter activity and stimulated the NF-κB signaling cascade. In spleen and RAW264.7 cells, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was increased upon GBC application, while expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines decreased. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that P. ginseng berry can stimulate innate immune responses and help maintain a balanced immune condition, mostly due to the action of its key ginsenoside Re, along with other protopanaxadiol- and protopanaxatriol-type ginsenosides. Such finding will provide a new insight into the field of well-being diet research as well as non-chemical immune modulator, by providing nature-derived and plant-based bioactive materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Jang
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ziliang He
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Biocosmetics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji Yeon Hwang
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul, 06978, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Youl Cho
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; Department of Biocosmetics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xie Z, Protzer U. Activating adaptive immunity by bispecific, T-cell engager antibodies bridging infected and immune-effector cells is a promising novel therapy for chronic hepatitis B. Antiviral Res 2024; 229:105972. [PMID: 39084340 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105972] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) are engineered immunoglobulins that combine two different antigen-binding sites in one molecule. BsAbs can be divided into two molecular formats: IgG-like and non-IgG-like antibodies. Structural elements of each format have implications for engaging the immune system. T cell engager antibodies (TCEs) are bsAbs designed to engage T cells with target cells. TCEs can be applied not only in cancer but also in infectious disease therapy to activate T-cell responses. In this review, we focus on current literature on the design and use of bsAbs as an innovative strategy to enhance adaptive antiviral immune responses. We summarized the novel T cell-related immunotherapies with a focus on TCEs, that are developed for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) had a death toll of 1.1 million humans in 2022, mainly due to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma developing in the more than 250 million humans chronically infected. A curative treatment approach for chronic hepatitis B is lacking. Combining antiviral therapy with immune therapies activating T-cell responses is regarded as the most promising therapeutic approach to curing HBV and preventing the sequelae of chronic infection. Attracting functionally intact T cells that are not HBV-specific and, therefore, have not yet been exposed to regulatory mechanisms and activating those at the target site in the liver is a very interesting therapeutic approach that could be achieved by TCEs. Thus, TCEs redirecting T cells toward HBV-positive cells represent a promising strategy for treating chronic hepatitis B and HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Xie
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich / Helmholtz Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich / Helmholtz Munich, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Sites, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Leau R, Duplouye P, Huchet V, Nerrière-Daguin V, Martinet B, Néel M, Morin M, Danger R, Braudeau C, Josien R, Blancho G, Haspot F. Correct stimulation of CD28H arms NK cells against tumor cells. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2350901. [PMID: 39101623 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Tumor evasion has recently been associated with a novel member of the B7 family, HERV-H LTR-associating 2 (HHLA2), which is mostly overexpressed in PDL-1neg tumors. HHLA2 can either induce a costimulation signal when bound to CD28H or inhibit it by binding to KIR3DL3 on T- and NK cells. Given the broad distribution of CD28H expression on NK cells and its role, we compared two monoclonal antibodies targeting this novel NK-cell engager in this study. We show that targeting CD28H at a specific epitope not only strongly activates Ca2+ flux but also results in NK-cell activation. CD28H-activated NK cells further display increased cytotoxic activity against hematopoietic cell lines and bypass HHLA2 and HLA-E inhibitory signals. Additionally, scRNA-seq analysis of clear cell renal cancer cells revealed that HHLA2+ clear cell renal cancer cell tumors were infiltrated with CD28H+ NK cells, which could be targeted by finely chosen anti-CD28H Abs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raphaëlle Leau
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre Duplouye
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Virginie Huchet
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Véronique Nerrière-Daguin
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Bernard Martinet
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Mélanie Néel
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Martin Morin
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Richard Danger
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Cécile Braudeau
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire d'Immunologie, CIMNA, Nantes, France
| | - Régis Josien
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire d'Immunologie, CIMNA, Nantes, France
| | - Gilles Blancho
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Fabienne Haspot
- Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang Y, Wang Z, Lu Y, Sanchez DJ, Li J, Wang L, Meng X, Chen J, Kien TT, Zhong M, Gao W, Ding X. Region-Specific CD16 + Neutrophils Promote Colorectal Cancer Progression by Inhibiting Natural Killer Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2403414. [PMID: 38790136 PMCID: PMC11304263 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The colon is the largest compartment of the immune system, with innate immune cells exposed to antigens in the environment. However, the mechanisms by which the innate immune system is instigated are poorly defined in colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, a population of CD16+ neutrophils that specifically accumulate in CRC tumor tissues by imaging mass cytometry (IMC), immune fluorescence, and flow cytometry, which demonstrated pro-tumor activity by disturbing natural killer (NK) cells are identified. It is found that these CD16+ neutrophils possess abnormal cholesterol accumulation due to activation of the CD16/TAK1/NF-κB axis, which upregulates scavenger receptors for cholesterol intake including CD36 and LRP1. Consequently, these region-specific CD16+ neutrophils not only competitively inhibit cholesterol intake of NK cells, which interrupts NK lipid raft formation and blocks their antitumor signaling but also release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to induce the death of NK cells. Furthermore, CD16-knockout reverses the pro-tumor activity of neutrophils and restored NK cell cytotoxicity. Collectively, the findings suggest that CRC region-specific CD16+ neutrophils can be a diagnostic marker and potential therapeutic target for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerRenji HospitalSchool of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
- Med‐X Research Institute & School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Zien Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerRenji HospitalSchool of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
- Med‐X Research Institute & School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Yu Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerRenji HospitalSchool of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - David J. Sanchez
- Pharmaceutical Sciences DepartmentCollege of PharmacyWestern University of Health Sciences309 East 2nd StreetHPC 225PomonaCA90025USA
| | - Jiaojiao Li
- School of Biomedical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering and ITUniversity of Technology SydneySydneyNSW2007Australia
| | - Linghao Wang
- Med‐X Research Institute & School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Xiaoxue Meng
- Med‐X Research Institute & School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200127China
| | - Tran Trung Kien
- Oncology departmentUniversity Medical Shing Mark Hospital1054 Highway 51, Long Binh Tan Ward, Bien Hoa CityDong Nai76000Vietnam
| | - Ming Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryRenji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200127China
| | - Wei‐Qiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for CancerRenji HospitalSchool of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
- Med‐X Research Institute & School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Xianting Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesInstitute for Personalized MedicineSchool of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhu M, Wu Y, Zhu T, Chen J, Chen Z, Ding H, Tan S, He J, Zeng Q, Huang X. Multifunctional Bispecific Nanovesicles Targeting SLAMF7 Trigger Potent Antitumor Immunity. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:1007-1021. [PMID: 38819238 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-1102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy is hindered by the ineffective infiltration and functioning of cytotoxic T cells and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family member 7 (SLAMF7) is a pivotal co-stimulatory receptor thought to simultaneously trigger NK-cell, T-cell, and macrophage antitumor cytotoxicity. However, the potential of this collaborative immune stimulation in antitumor immunity for solid tumors is underexplored due to the exclusive expression of SLAMF7 by hematopoietic cells. Here, we report the development and characterization of multifunctional bispecific nanovesicles (NVs) targeting SLAMF7 and glypican-3-a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-specific tumor antigen. We found that by effectively "decorating" the surfaces of solid tumors with SLAMF7, these NVs directly induced potent and specific antitumor immunity and remodeled the immunosuppressive TME, sensitizing the tumors to programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) blockade. Our findings highlight the potential of SLAMF7-targeted multifunctional bispecific NVs as an anticancer strategy with implications for designing next-generation targeted cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manman Zhu
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yongjian Wu
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Tianchuan Zhu
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Zhenxing Chen
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Kingcell Regenerative Medicine (Guangdong) Co., Zhuhai, China
| | - Hanxi Ding
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
- Cancer Center, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Siyi Tan
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jianzhong He
- Department of Pathology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Qi Zeng
- Cancer Center, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Center for Infection and Immunity and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Schoenfeld K, Harwardt J, Kolmar H. Better safe than sorry: dual targeting antibodies for cancer immunotherapy. Biol Chem 2024; 405:443-459. [PMID: 38297991 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0329] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-based therapies are revolutionizing cancer treatment and experience a steady increase from preclinical and clinical pipelines to market share. While the clinical success of monoclonal antibodies is frequently limited by low response rates, treatment resistance and various other factors, multispecific antibodies open up new prospects by addressing tumor complexity as well as immune response actuation potently improving safety and efficacy. Novel antibody approaches involve simultaneous binding of two antigens on one cell implying increased specificity and reduced tumor escape for dual tumor-associated antigen targeting and enhanced and durable cytotoxic effects for dual immune cell-related antigen targeting. This article reviews antibody and cell-based therapeutics for oncology with intrinsic dual targeting of either tumor cells or immune cells. As revealed in various preclinical studies and clinical trials, dual targeting molecules are promising candidates constituting the next generation of antibody drugs for fighting cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Schoenfeld
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Julia Harwardt
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
He A, Li Q, Dang M, Lu W, Li X, Dai Z, Ding M, Zhang Y, Dong H, Teng Z, Mou Y. Extracellular Vesicle-Inspired Minimalist Flexible Nanocapsules Assembled with Whole Active Ingredients for Highly Efficient Enhancement of DC-Mediated Tumor Immunotherapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401199. [PMID: 39054675 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401199] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The development of nanovaccines capable of eliciting tumor-specific immune responses holds significant promise for tumor immunotherapy. However, many nanovaccine designs rely heavily on incorporating multiple adjuvants and carriers, increasing the biological hazards associated with these additional components. Here, this work introduces novel flexible nanocapsules (OVAnano) designed to mimic extracellular vesicles, primarily using the ovalbumin antigen and minimal polyethylenimine adjuvant components. These results show that the biomimetic flexible structure of OVAnano facilitates enhanced antigen uptake by dendritic cells (DCs), leading to efficient antigen and adjuvant release into the cytosol via endosomal escape, and ultimately, successful antigen cross-presentation by DCs. Furthermore, OVAnano modulates the intracellular nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, promoting DC maturation. The highly purified antigens in OVAnano demonstrate remarkable antigen-specific immunogenicity, triggering strong antitumor immune responses mediated by DCs. Therapeutic tumor vaccination studies have also shown that OVAnano administration effectively suppresses tumor growth in mice by inducing immune responses from CD8+ and CD4+ T cells targeting specific antigens, reducing immunosuppression by regulatory T cells, and boosting the populations of effector memory T cells. These findings underscore that the simple yet potent strategy of employing minimal flexible nanocapsules markedly enhances DC-mediated antitumor immunotherapy, offering promising avenues for future clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ao He
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Meng Dang
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials, Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Centre for Advanced Materials, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, 9 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials, Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Centre for Advanced Materials, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, 9 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Xiaoye Li
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Zhuo Dai
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Meng Ding
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Heng Dong
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| | - Zhaogang Teng
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials, Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Centre for Advanced Materials, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, 9 Wenyuan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yongbin Mou
- Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Institute of Stomatology, Nanjing University, 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210008, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Coënon L, Rigal E, Courot H, Multrier C, Zemiti S, Lambour J, Pugnière M, de Toledo M, Bossis G, Cartron G, Robert B, Martineau P, Fauvel B, Presumey J, Villalba M. Generation of non-genetically modified, CAR-like, NK cells. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009070. [PMID: 39029925 PMCID: PMC11261687 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cell therapy is considered an attractive and safe strategy for anticancer therapy. Nevertheless, when autologous or allogenic NK cells are used alone, the clinical benefit has been disappointing. This is partially due to the lack of target specificity. Recently, CD19-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK cells have proven to be safe and potent in patients with B-cell tumors. However, the generation of CAR-NK cells is a complicated manufacturing process. We aim at developing a targeted NK cell therapy without the need for cellular genetic modifications. We took advantage of the natural expression of the IgG Fc receptor CD16a (FcγRIIIa) to induce strong antigen-specific effector functions through antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). We have generated the new technology "Pin", which enables the arming of modified monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) onto the CD16a of ex vivo expanded NK (eNK) cells. Methods Ex vivo eNK were prepared from umbilical cord blood cells and expanded using interleukin (IL)-2/IL-15 and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed B-lymphoblastoid feeder cells. mAbs were engineered with four substitutions called Pin mutations to increase their affinity to CD16a. eNK were incubated with anti-CD20 or anti-CD19 Pin-mAbs to generate "armed" eNK and were used to assess effector functions in vitro on cancer cell lines, lymphoma patient cells and in vivo. RESULTS CD16a/Pin-mAb interaction is stable for several days and Pin-mAb eNK inherit the mAb specificity and exclusively induce ADCC against targets expressing the cognate antigen. Hence, Pin-mAbs confer long-term selectivity to eNK, which allows specific elimination of the target cells in several in vivo mouse models. Finally, we showed that it is possible to arm eNK with at least two Pin-mAbs simultaneously, to increase efficacy against heterogenous cancer cell populations. CONCLUSIONS The Pin technology provides an off-the-shelf NK cell therapy platform to generate CAR-like NK cells, without genetic modifications, that easily target multiple tumor antigens.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Humans
- Animals
- Mice
- Receptors, IgG/metabolism
- Receptors, IgG/immunology
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Antigens, CD19/immunology
- Antibody-Dependent Cell Cytotoxicity
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loïs Coënon
- IRMB, INSERM U1183, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Caroline Multrier
- IRMB, INSERM U1183, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sara Zemiti
- IRMB, INSERM U1183, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jennifer Lambour
- IRMB, INSERM U1183, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Martine Pugnière
- IRCM, INSERM U1194, University of Montpellier, ICM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Guillaume Cartron
- Department of Clinical Hematology, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Bruno Robert
- IRCM, INSERM U1194, University of Montpellier, ICM, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre Martineau
- IRCM, INSERM U1194, University of Montpellier, ICM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Martin Villalba
- IRMB, INSERM U1183, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xin Z, Qin L, Tang Y, Guo S, Li F, Fang Y, Li G, Yao Y, Zheng B, Zhang B, Wu D, Xiao J, Ni C, Wei Q, Zhang T. Immune mediated support of metastasis: Implication for bone invasion. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2024. [PMID: 39003618 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Bone is a common organ affected by metastasis in various advanced cancers, including lung, breast, prostate, colorectal, and melanoma. Once a patient is diagnosed with bone metastasis, the patient's quality of life and overall survival are significantly reduced owing to a wide range of morbidities and the increasing difficulty of treatment. Many studies have shown that bone metastasis is closely related to bone microenvironment, especially bone immune microenvironment. However, the effects of various immune cells in the bone microenvironment on bone metastasis remain unclear. Here, we described the changes in various immune cells during bone metastasis and discussed their related mechanisms. Osteoblasts, adipocytes, and other non-immune cells closely related to bone metastasis were also included. This review also summarized the existing treatment methods and potential therapeutic targets, and provided insights for future studies of cancer bone metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zengfeng Xin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Luying Qin
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yang Tang
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Siyu Guo
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Gege Li
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yihan Yao
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Binbin Zheng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ningbo Hangzhou Bay Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Bicheng Zhang
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Dang Wu
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Jie Xiao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital (Jiande Branch), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Chao Ni
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Qichun Wei
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zang J, Mei Y, Zhu S, Yin S, Feng N, Ci T, Lyu Y. Natural Killer-Based Therapy: A Prospective Thought for Cancer Treatment Related to Diversified Drug Delivery Pathways. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:939. [PMID: 39065636 PMCID: PMC11279587 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070939] [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: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been a research hotspot due to its low side effects, long-lasting efficacy, and wide anti-tumor spectrum. Recently, NK cell-based immunotherapy has gained broad attention for its unique immunological character of tumor identification and eradication and low risk of graft-versus-host disease and cytokine storm. With the cooperation of a drug delivery system (DDS), NK cells activate tumoricidal activity by adjusting the balance of the activating and inhibitory signals on their surface after drug-loaded DDS administration. Moreover, NK cells or NK-derived exosomes can also be applied as drug carriers for distinct modification to promote NK activation and exert anti-tumor effects. In this review, we first introduce the source and classification of NK cells and describe the common activating and inhibitory receptors on their surface. Then, we summarize the strategies for activating NK cells in vivo through various DDSs. Finally, the application prospects of NK cells in tumor immunotherapy are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yijun Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Shiguo Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Shaoping Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine External Medication Development and Application, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China;
| | - Nianping Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Tianyuan Ci
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yaqi Lyu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Goebeler ME, Stuhler G, Bargou R. Bispecific and multispecific antibodies in oncology: opportunities and challenges. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:539-560. [PMID: 38822215 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Research into bispecific antibodies, which are designed to simultaneously bind two antigens or epitopes, has advanced enormously over the past two decades. Owing to advances in protein engineering technologies and considerable preclinical research efforts, bispecific antibodies are constantly being developed and optimized to improve their efficacy and to mitigate toxicity. To date, >200 of these agents, the majority of which are bispecific immune cell engagers, are in either preclinical or clinical evaluation. In this Review, we discuss the role of bispecific antibodies in patients with cancer, including history and development, as well as innovative targeting strategies, clinical applications, and adverse events. We also discuss novel alternative bispecific antibody constructs, such as those targeting two antigens expressed by tumour cells or cells located in the tumour microenvironment. Finally, we consider future research directions in this rapidly evolving field, including innovative antibody engineering strategies, which might enable more effective delivery, overcome resistance, and thus optimize clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Elisabeth Goebeler
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, NCT WERA, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Gernot Stuhler
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, NCT WERA, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Bargou
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, NCT WERA, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rolin C, Zimmer J, Seguin-Devaux C. Bridging the gap with multispecific immune cell engagers in cancer and infectious diseases. Cell Mol Immunol 2024; 21:643-661. [PMID: 38789528 PMCID: PMC11214628 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01176-4] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
By binding to multiple antigens simultaneously, multispecific antibodies are expected to substantially improve both the activity and long-term efficacy of antibody-based immunotherapy. Immune cell engagers, a subclass of antibody-based constructs, consist of engineered structures designed to bridge immune effector cells to their target, thereby redirecting the immune response toward the tumor cells or infected cells. The increasing number of recent clinical trials evaluating immune cell engagers reflects the important role of these molecules in new therapeutic approaches for cancer and infections. In this review, we discuss how different immune cell types (T and natural killer lymphocytes, as well as myeloid cells) can be bound by immune cell engagers in immunotherapy for cancer and infectious diseases. Furthermore, we explore the preclinical and clinical advancements of these constructs, and we discuss the challenges in translating the current knowledge from cancer to the virology field. Finally, we speculate on the promising future directions that immune cell engagers may take in cancer treatment and antiviral therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Rolin
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 29 Rue Henri Koch, L-4354, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
- University of Luxembourg, 2 Place de l'Université, L-4365, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Jacques Zimmer
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 29 Rue Henri Koch, L-4354, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Carole Seguin-Devaux
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 29 Rue Henri Koch, L-4354, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wu J. Emerging Innate Immune Cells in Cancer Immunotherapy: Promises and Challenges. BioDrugs 2024; 38:499-509. [PMID: 38700835 PMCID: PMC11246812 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00657-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based therapy has made an unprecedented impact on survival benefit for a subset of cancer patients; however, only a subset of cancer patients is benefiting from ICI therapy if all cancer types are considered. With the advanced understanding of interactions of immune effector cell types and tumors, cell-based therapies are emerging as alternatives to patients who could not benefit from ICI therapy. Pioneering work of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) therapy for hematological malignancies has brought encouragement to a broad range of development for cellular-based cancer immunotherapy, both innate immune cell-based therapies and T-cell-based therapies. Innate immune cells are important cell types due to their rapid response, versatile function, superior safety profiles being demonstrated in early clinical development, and being able to utilize multiple allogeneic cell sources. Efforts on engineering innate immune cells and exploring their therapeutic potential are rapidly emerging. Some of the therapies, such as CD19 CAR natural killer (CAR-NK) cell-based therapy, have demonstrated comparable early efficacy with CD19 CAR-T cells. These studies underscore the significance of developing innate immune cells for cancer therapy. In this review, we focus on the current development of emerging NK cells, γδ T cells, and macrophages. We also present our views on potential challenges and perspectives to overcome these challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Wu
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior St, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fenis A, Demaria O, Gauthier L, Vivier E, Narni-Mancinelli E. New immune cell engagers for cancer immunotherapy. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:471-486. [PMID: 38273127 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00982-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
There have been major advances in the immunotherapy of cancer in recent years, including the development of T cell engagers - antibodies engineered to redirect T cells to recognize and kill cancer cells - for the treatment of haematological malignancies. However, the field still faces several challenges to develop agents that are consistently effective in a majority of patients and cancer types, such as optimizing drug dose, overcoming treatment resistance and improving efficacy in solid tumours. A new generation of T cell-targeted molecules was developed to tackle these issues that are potentially more effective and safer. In addition, agents designed to engage the antitumour activities of other immune cells, including natural killer cells and myeloid cells, are showing promise and have the potential to treat a broader range of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Fenis
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Demaria
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Gauthier
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
| | - Eric Vivier
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille Immunopôle, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Aix Marseille Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sugiyama FHC, Dietz LL, Søgaard OS. Utilizing immunotherapy towards achieving a functional cure for HIV-1. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2024; 19:187-193. [PMID: 38686856 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have positively impacted the life expectancy and possibility of living a normal life for people with HIV-1. However, lifelong daily medication is necessary to prevent disease progression. To this end, immunotherapeutic strategies are being tested with the aim of developing a functional cure in which the immune system effectively controls HIV-1 in the absence of ART. RECENT FINDINGS The most promising advances in achieving sustained HIV-1 remission or cure include broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) that are administered alone or in combination with other agents. Newer and more innovative approaches redirecting T cells or natural killer cells to kill HIV-1 infected cells have also shown promising results. Finally, multiple ongoing trials focus on combining bNAbs with other immune-directed therapies to enhance both innate and adaptive immunity. SUMMARY While immunotherapies as an alternative to conventional ART have generally proven to be well tolerated, these therapeutic approaches have largely been unsuccessful in inducing ART-free control of HIV-1. However, promising results from recent trials involving bNAbs that have reported durable HIV-1 control among a subset of participants, provide reason for cautious optimism that we with further optimization of these treatment strategies may be able to achieve functional cure for HIV-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrícia Heloisa Cavicchioli Sugiyama
- Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Bromatological Analysis, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lisa Loksø Dietz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Schmeltz Søgaard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kuznetsova AV, Glukhova XA, Popova OP, Beletsky IP, Ivanov AA. Contemporary Approaches to Immunotherapy of Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2270. [PMID: 38927974 PMCID: PMC11201544 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the arrival of the immunotherapy industry has introduced the possibility of providing transformative, durable, and potentially curative outcomes for various forms of malignancies. However, further research has shown that there are a number of issues that significantly reduce the effectiveness of immunotherapy, especially in solid tumors. First of all, these problems are related to the protective mechanisms of the tumor and its microenvironment. Currently, major efforts are focused on overcoming protective mechanisms by using different adoptive cell therapy variants and modifications of genetically engineered constructs. In addition, a complex workforce is required to develop and implement these treatments. To overcome these significant challenges, innovative strategies and approaches are necessary to engineer more powerful variations of immunotherapy with improved antitumor activity and decreased toxicity. In this review, we discuss recent innovations in immunotherapy aimed at improving clinical efficacy in solid tumors, as well as strategies to overcome the limitations of various immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alla V. Kuznetsova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Xenia A. Glukhova
- Onni Biotechnologies Ltd., Aalto University Campus, Metallimiehenkuja 10, 02150 Espoo, Finland; (X.A.G.); (I.P.B.)
| | - Olga P. Popova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
| | - Igor P. Beletsky
- Onni Biotechnologies Ltd., Aalto University Campus, Metallimiehenkuja 10, 02150 Espoo, Finland; (X.A.G.); (I.P.B.)
| | - Alexey A. Ivanov
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Russian University of Medicine (Formerly A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry), Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Bld 4, Dolgorukovskaya Str, 1127006 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.K.); (O.P.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
D’Alò F, Bellesi S, Maiolo E, Alma E, Bellisario F, Malafronte R, Viscovo M, Campana F, Hohaus S. Novel Targets and Advanced Therapies in Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphomas. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2243. [PMID: 38927948 PMCID: PMC11201587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the introduction of rituximab in the late 1990s, significant progress has been made in advancing targeted therapies for B cell lymphomas, improving patients' chance of being cured and clinicians' therapeutic armamentarium. A better understanding of disease biology and pathogenic pathways, coupled with refinements in immunophenotypic and molecular diagnostics, have been instrumental in these achievements. While traditional chemotherapy remains fundamental in most cases, concerns surrounding chemorefractoriness and cumulative toxicities, particularly the depletion of the hemopoietic reserve, underscore the imperative for personalized treatment approaches. Integrating targeted agents, notably monoclonal antibodies, alongside chemotherapy has yielded heightened response rates and prolonged survival. A notable paradigm shift is underway with innovative-targeted therapies replacing cytotoxic drugs, challenging conventional salvage strategies like stem cell transplantation. This review examines the landscape of emerging targets for lymphoma cells and explores innovative therapies for diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). From Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T cells to more potent monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and small molecules targeting intracellular pathways, each modality offers promising avenues for therapeutic advancement. This review aims to furnish insights into their potential implications for the future of DLBCL treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D’Alò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Silvia Bellesi
- UOC Servizio e DH di Ematologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Elena Maiolo
- UOC Servizio e DH di Ematologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Eleonora Alma
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Flaminia Bellisario
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rosalia Malafronte
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marcello Viscovo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Fabrizia Campana
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Stefan Hohaus
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.B.); (R.M.); (M.V.); (F.C.); (S.H.)
- UOSD Malattie Linfoproliferative Extramidollari, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Huang M, Liu Y, Yan Q, Peng M, Ge J, Mo Y, Wang Y, Wang F, Zeng Z, Li Y, Fan C, Xiong W. NK cells as powerful therapeutic tool in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:733-757. [PMID: 38170381 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00909-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells have gained considerable attention and hold great potential for their application in tumor immunotherapy. This is mainly due to their MHC-unrestricted and pan-specific recognition capabilities, as well as their ability to rapidly respond to and eliminate target cells. To artificially generate therapeutic NK cells, various materials can be utilized, such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and NK cell lines. Exploiting the therapeutic potential of NK cells to treat tumors through in vivo and in vitro therapeutic modalities has yielded positive therapeutic results. CONCLUSION This review provides a comprehensive description of NK cell therapeutic approaches for tumors and discusses the current problems associated with these therapeutic approaches and the prospects of NK cell therapy for tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mao Huang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yixuan Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qijia Yan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao Peng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Junshang Ge
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yongzhen Mo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yumin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fuyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Alkek Building, RM N720, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chunmei Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhan T, Li X, Liu J, Ye C. CRISPR-based gene expression platform for precise regulation of bladder cancer. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:66. [PMID: 38724931 PMCID: PMC11080256 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00569-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of compact CRISPR systems has facilitated delivery but has concurrently reduced gene editing efficiency, thereby limiting the further utilization of CRISPR systems. Enhancing the efficiency of CRISPR systems poses a challenging task and holds significant implications for the advancement of biotechnology. In our work, we report a synthetic dual-antibody system that can stably exist in the intracellular environment, specifically inhibiting the functions of NF-κB and β-catenin. This not only elevates the transgenic expression of the CRISPR system by suppressing the innate immune response within cells to enhance the gene editing efficiency but also demonstrates a notable tumor inhibitory effect. Based on the specific output expression regulation of CRISPR-CasΦ, we constructed a CRISPR-based gene expression platform, which includes sensor modules for detecting intracellular β-catenin and NF-κB, as well as an SDA module to enhance overall efficiency. In vitro experiments revealed that the CRISPR-based gene expression platform exhibited superior CDK5 expression inhibition efficiency and specific cytotoxicity towards tumor cells. In vitro experiments, we found that CRISPR-based gene expression platforms can selectively kill bladder cancer cells through T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Our design holds significant assistant potential of transgene therapy and may offer the capability to treat other diseases requiring transgene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianying Zhan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Urology, Carson International Cancer Centre, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiumin Liu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
- Guang Dong Medical Academic Exchange Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chujin Ye
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
- Guang Dong Medical Academic Exchange Center, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mitra A, Kumar A, Amdare NP, Pathak R. Current Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune Arsenal to Overcome Immune Evasion. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:307. [PMID: 38785789 PMCID: PMC11118874 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immune evasion represents a leading hallmark of cancer, posing a significant obstacle to the development of successful anticancer therapies. However, the landscape of cancer treatment has significantly evolved, transitioning into the era of immunotherapy from conventional methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Immunotherapy has emerged as a pivotal component in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to combat cancer and offering improved prognostic outcomes for numerous patients. The remarkable success of immunotherapy has spurred significant efforts to enhance the clinical efficacy of existing agents and strategies. Several immunotherapeutic approaches have received approval for targeted cancer treatments, while others are currently in preclinical and clinical trials. This review explores recent progress in unraveling the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of diverse immunotherapy strategies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and antibody-based treatments. It encompasses both established treatments and those currently under investigation, providing a comprehensive overview of efforts to combat cancer through immunological approaches. Additionally, the article emphasizes the current developments, limitations, and challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, by integrating analyses of cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and exploring combination strategies and personalized approaches, it offers valuable insights crucial for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Mitra
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin P. Amdare
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Oyer JL, Croom-Perez TJ, Hasan MF, Rivera-Huertas JA, Gitto SB, Mucha JM, Zhu X, Altomare DA, Igarashi RY, Copik AJ. PM21-particle stimulation augmented with cytokines enhances NK cell expansion and confers memory-like characteristics with enhanced survival. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383281. [PMID: 38711506 PMCID: PMC11070970 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383281] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
NK cell therapeutics have gained significant attention as a potential cancer treatment. Towards therapeutic use, NK cells need to be activated and expanded to attain high potency and large quantities for an effective dosage. This is typically done by ex vivo stimulation with cytokines to enhance functionality or expansion for 10-14 days to increase both their activity and quantity. Attaining a robust methodology to produce large doses of potent NK cells for an off-the-shelf product is highly desirable. Notably, past reports have shown that stimulating NK cells with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 endows them with memory-like properties, better anti-tumor activity, and persistence. While this approach produces NK cells with clinically favorable characteristics supported by encouraging early results for the treatment of hematological malignancies, its limited scalability, variability in initial doses, and the necessity for patient-specific production hinder its broader application. In this study, stimulation of NK cells with PM21-particles derived from K562-41BBL-mbIL21 cells was combined with memory-like induction using cytokines IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 to produce NK cells with enhanced anti-tumor function. The use of cytokines combined with PM21-particles (cytokine and particle, CAP) significantly enhanced NK cell expansion, achieving a remarkable 8,200-fold in 14 days. Mechanistically, this significant improvement over expansion with PM21-particles alone was due to the upregulation of receptors for key stimulating ligands (4-1BBL and IL-2), resulting in a synergy that drives substantial NK cell growth, showcasing the potential for more effective therapeutic applications. The therapeutic potential of CAP-NK cells was demonstrated by the enhanced metabolic fitness, persistence, and anti-tumor function both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, CAP-NK cells were amenable to current technologies used in developing therapeutic NK cell products, including CRISPR/Cas9-based techniques to generate a triple-gene knockout or a gene knock-in. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the addition of cytokines enhanced the already effective method of ex vivo generation of therapeutic NK cells with PM21-particles, yielding a superior NK cell product for manufacturing efficiency and potential therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alicja J. Copik
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kim N, Yi E, Lee E, Park HJ, Kim HS. Interleukin-2 is required for NKp30-dependent NK cell cytotoxicity by preferentially regulating NKp30 expression. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1388018. [PMID: 38698855 PMCID: PMC11063289 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1388018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are key effectors in cancer immunosurveillance, eliminating a broad spectrum of cancer cells without major histocompatibility complex (MHC) specificity and graft-versus-host diseases (GvHD) risk. The use of allogeneic NK cell therapies from healthy donors has demonstrated favorable clinical efficacies in treating diverse cancers, particularly hematologic malignancies, but it requires cytokines such as IL-2 to primarily support NK cell persistence and expansion. However, the role of IL-2 in the regulation of activating receptors and the function of NK cells expanded for clinical trials is poorly understood and needs clarification for the full engagement of NK cells in cancer immunotherapy. Here, we demonstrated that IL-2 deprivation significantly impaired the cytotoxicity of primary expanded NK cells by preferentially downregulating NKp30 but not NKp46 despite their common adaptor requirement for expression and function. Using NK92 and IL-2-producing NK92MI cells, we observed that NKp30-mediated cytotoxicity against myeloid leukemia cells such as K562 and THP-1 cells expressing B7-H6, a ligand for NKp30, was severely impaired by IL-2 deprivation. Furthermore, IL-2 deficiency-mediated NK cell dysfunction was overcome by the ectopic overexpression of an immunostimulatory NKp30 isoform such as NKp30a or NKp30b. In particular, NKp30a overexpression in NK92 cells improved the clearance of THP-1 cells in vivo without IL-2 supplementation. Collectively, our results highlight the distinct role of IL-2 in the regulation of NKp30 compared to that of NKp46 and suggest NKp30 upregulation, as shown here by ectopic overexpression, as a viable modality to harness NK cells in cancer immunotherapy, possibly in combination with IL-2 immunocytokines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Yi
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Park
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Sik Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Klein C, Brinkmann U, Reichert JM, Kontermann RE. The present and future of bispecific antibodies for cancer therapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:301-319. [PMID: 38448606 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00896-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) enable novel mechanisms of action and/or therapeutic applications that cannot be achieved using conventional IgG-based antibodies. Consequently, development of these molecules has garnered substantial interest in the past decade and, as of the end of 2023, 14 bsAbs have been approved: 11 for the treatment of cancer and 3 for non-oncology indications. bsAbs are available in different formats, address different targets and mediate anticancer function via different molecular mechanisms. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in the field of bsAbs for cancer therapy. We focus on bsAbs that are approved or in clinical development, including bsAb-mediated dual modulators of signalling pathways, tumour-targeted receptor agonists, bsAb-drug conjugates, bispecific T cell, natural killer cell and innate immune cell engagers, and bispecific checkpoint inhibitors and co-stimulators. Finally, we provide an outlook into next-generation bsAbs in earlier stages of development, including trispecifics, bsAb prodrugs, bsAbs that induce degradation of tumour targets and bsAbs acting as cytokine mimetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Klein
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | | | - Roland E Kontermann
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Li S, Dai W, Kam NW, Zhang J, Lee VHF, Ren X, Kwong DLW. The Role of Natural Killer Cells in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of EBV-Associated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1312. [PMID: 38610990 PMCID: PMC11011204 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071312] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is closely associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which contributes to tumor development and influences the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in NPC. Natural killer (NK) cells, as part of the innate immune system, play a crucial role in responding to viral infections and malignant cell transformations. Notably, NK cells possess a unique ability to target tumor cells independent of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) expression. This means that MHC I-deficient tumor cells, which can escape from effective T cell attack, are susceptible to NK-cell-mediated killing. The activation of NK cells is determined by the signals generated through inhibitory and activating receptors expressed on their surface. Understanding the role of NK cells in the complex TIME of EBV+ NPC is of utmost importance. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of NK cells in NPC, focusing on their subpopulations, interactions, and cytotoxicity within the TIME. Moreover, we discuss the potential translational therapeutic applications of NK cells in NPC. This review aims to enhance our knowledge of the role of NK cells in NPC and provide valuable insights for future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuzhan Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; (S.L.); (J.Z.)
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Wei Dai
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Centre of Cancer Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.D.); (N.-W.K.); (V.H.F.L.)
| | - Ngar-Woon Kam
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Centre of Cancer Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.D.); (N.-W.K.); (V.H.F.L.)
- Laboratory for Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; (S.L.); (J.Z.)
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Victor H. F. Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Centre of Cancer Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.D.); (N.-W.K.); (V.H.F.L.)
- Clinical Oncology Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; (S.L.); (J.Z.)
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Dora Lai-Wan Kwong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Centre of Cancer Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China; (W.D.); (N.-W.K.); (V.H.F.L.)
- Clinical Oncology Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Stenger TD, Miller JS. Therapeutic approaches to enhance natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1356666. [PMID: 38545115 PMCID: PMC10966407 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1356666] [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: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhancing the cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells has emerged as a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, due to their pivotal role in immune surveillance and tumor clearance. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of therapeutic approaches designed to augment NK cell cytotoxicity. We analyze a wide range of strategies, including cytokine-based treatment, monoclonal antibodies, and NK cell engagers, and discuss criteria that must be considered when selecting an NK cell product to combine with these strategies. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and limitations associated with each therapeutic strategy, as well as the potential for combination therapies to maximize NK cell cytotoxicity while minimizing adverse effects. By exploring the wealth of research on this topic, this literature review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians seeking to develop and implement novel therapeutic strategies that harness the full potential of NK cells in the fight against cancer. Enhancing NK cell cytotoxicity holds great promise in the evolving landscape of immunotherapy, and this review serves as a roadmap for understanding the current state of the field and the future directions in NK cell-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terran D. Stenger
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ulitzka M, Harwardt J, Lipinski B, Tran H, Hock B, Kolmar H. Potent Apoptosis Induction by a Novel Trispecific B7-H3xCD16xTIGIT 2+1 Common Light Chain Natural Killer Cell Engager. Molecules 2024; 29:1140. [PMID: 38474651 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051140] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Valued for their ability to rapidly kill multiple tumor cells in succession as well as their favorable safety profile, NK cells are of increasing interest in the field of immunotherapy. As their cytotoxic activity is controlled by a complex network of activating and inhibiting receptors, they offer a wide range of possible antigens to modulate their function by antibodies. In this work, we utilized our established common light chain (cLC)-based yeast surface display (YSD) screening procedure to isolate novel B7-H3 and TIGIT binding monoclonal antibodies. The chicken-derived antibodies showed single- to low-double-digit nanomolar affinities and were combined with a previously published CD16-binding Fab in a 2+1 format to generate a potent NK engaging molecule. In a straightforward, easily adjustable apoptosis assay, the construct B7-H3xCD16xTIGIT showed potent apoptosis induction in cancer cells. These results showcase the potential of the TIGIT NK checkpoint in combination with activating receptors to achieve increased cytotoxic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ulitzka
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Julia Harwardt
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Britta Lipinski
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Hue Tran
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Björn Hock
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Peter-Grünberg-Str. 4, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- Centre of Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64283 Darmstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Cui H, Zhang L, Shi Y. Biomaterials-mediated ligation of immune cell surface receptors for immunoengineering. IMMUNO-ONCOLOGY TECHNOLOGY 2024; 21:100695. [PMID: 38405432 PMCID: PMC10891334 DOI: 10.1016/j.iotech.2023.100695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
A wide variety of cell surface receptors found on immune cells are essential to the body's immunological defense mechanisms. Cell surface receptors enable immune cells to sense extracellular stimuli and identify pathogens, transmitting activating or inhibitory signals that regulate the immune cell state and coordinate immunological responses. These receptors can dynamically aggregate or disperse due to the fluidity of the cell membrane, particularly during interactions between cells or between cells and pathogens. At the contact surface, cell surface receptors form microclusters, facilitating the recruitment and amplification of downstream signals. The strength of the immune signal is influenced by both the quantity and the specific types of participating receptors. Generally, receptor cross-linking, meaning multivalent ligation of receptors on one cell, leads to greater interface connectivity and more robust signaling. However, intercellular interactions are often spatially restricted by other cellular structures. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend these receptors' features for developing effective immunoengineering approaches. Biomaterials can stimulate and simulate interactions between immune cells and their targets. Biomaterials can activate immune cells to act against pathogenic organisms or cancer cells, thereby offering a valuable immunoengineering toolset for vaccination and immunotherapy. In this review, we systematically summarize biomaterial-based immunoengineering strategies that consider the biology of diverse immune cell surface receptors and the structural attributes of pathogens. By combining this knowledge, we aim to advance the development of rational and effective approaches for immune modulation and therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H. Cui
- Department of Polymer Therapeutics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - L. Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Y. Shi
- Department of Polymer Therapeutics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Shang J, Hu S, Wang X. Targeting natural killer cells: from basic biology to clinical application in hematologic malignancies. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:21. [PMID: 38396050 PMCID: PMC10885621 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00481-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: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell belongs to innate lymphoid cell family that contributes to host immunosurveillance and defense without pre-immunization. Emerging studies have sought to understand the underlying mechanism behind NK cell dysfunction in tumor environments, and provide numerous novel therapeutic targets for tumor treatment. Strategies to enhance functional activities of NK cell have exhibited promising efficacy and favorable tolerance in clinical treatment of tumor patients, such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), chimeric antigen receptor NK (CAR-NK) cell, and bi/trispecific killer cell engager (BiKE/TriKE). Immunotherapy targeting NK cell provides remarkable advantages compared to T cell therapy, including a decreased rate of graft versus-host disease (GvHD) and neurotoxicity. Nevertheless, advanced details on how to support the maintenance and function of NK cell to obtain better response rate and longer duration still remain to be elucidated. This review systematically summarizes the profound role of NK cells in tumor development, highlights up-to-date advances and current challenges of therapy targeting NK cell in the clinical treatment of hematologic malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Shang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Shunfeng Hu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 251006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Vivier E, Rebuffet L, Narni-Mancinelli E, Cornen S, Igarashi RY, Fantin VR. Natural killer cell therapies. Nature 2024; 626:727-736. [PMID: 38383621 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06945-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system. A key feature of NK cells is their ability to recognize a wide range of cells in distress, particularly tumour cells and cells infected with viruses. They combine both direct effector functions against their cellular targets and participate in the generation, shaping and maintenance of a multicellular immune response. As our understanding has deepened, several therapeutic strategies focused on NK cells have been conceived and are currently in various stages of development, from preclinical investigations to clinical trials. Here we explore in detail the complexity of NK cell biology in humans and highlight the role of these cells in cancer immunity. We also analyse the harnessing of NK cell immunity through immune checkpoint inhibitors, NK cell engagers, and infusions of preactivated or genetically modified, autologous or allogeneic NK cell products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Vivier
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France.
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France.
- APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille, France.
- Paris-Saclay Cancer Cluster, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Lucas Rebuffet
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Stéphanie Cornen
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chen H, Wong HF, Qiu J, Li B, Yuan D, Kong H, Bao Y, Zhang Y, Xu Z, Tse YS, Xia J. Site-Selective Tyrosine Reaction for Antibody-Cell Conjugation and Targeted Immunotherapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305012. [PMID: 38044303 PMCID: PMC10837340 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Targeted immunotherapies capitalize on the exceptional binding capabilities of antibodies to stimulate a host response that effectuates long-lived tumor destruction. One example is the conjugation of immunoglobulins (IgGs) to immune effector cells, which equips the cells with the ability to recognize and accurately kill malignant cells through a process called antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). In this study, a chemoenzymatic reaction is developed that specifically functionalizes a single tyrosine (Tyr, Y) residue, Y296, in the Fc domain of therapeutic IgGs. A one-pot reaction that combines the tyrosinase-catalyzed oxidation of tyrosine to o-quinone with a subsequent [3+2] photoaddition with vinyl ether is employed. This reaction installs fluorescent molecules or bioorthogonal groups at Y296 of IgGs or the C-terminal Y-tag of an engineered nanobody. The Tyr-specific reaction is utilized in constructing monofunctionalized antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and antibody/nanobody-conjugated effector cells, such as natural killer cells or macrophages. These results demonstrate the potential of site-selective antibody reactions for enhancing targeted cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongfei Chen
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Hong‐Chai Fabio Wong
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Jiaming Qiu
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Biquan Li
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Dingdong Yuan
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Hao Kong
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Yishu Bao
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Zhiyi Xu
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Ying‐Lung Steve Tse
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| | - Jiang Xia
- Department of ChemistryThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong SARChina
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lee RB, Maddineni S, Landry M, Diaz C, Tashfeen A, Yamada-Hunter SA, Mackall CL, Beinat C, Sunwoo JB, Cochran JR. An engineered NKp46 antibody for construction of multi-specific NK cell engagers. Protein Eng Des Sel 2024; 37:gzae013. [PMID: 39163262 PMCID: PMC11359164 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzae013] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in cancer immunotherapy have highlighted the potential of harnessing natural killer (NK) cells in the treatment of neoplastic malignancies. Of these, bispecific antibodies, and NK cell engager (NKCE) protein therapeutics in particular, have been of interest. Here, we used phage display and yeast surface display to engineer RLN131, a unique cross-reactive antibody that binds to human, mouse, and cynomolgus NKp46, an activating receptor found on NK cells. RLN131 induced proliferation and activation of primary NK cells, and was used to create bispecific NKCE constructs of varying configurations and valency. All NKCEs were able to promote greater NK cell cytotoxicity against tumor cells than an unmodified anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, and activity was observed irrespective of whether the constructs contained a functional Fc domain. Competition binding and fine epitope mapping studies were used to demonstrate that RLN131 binds to a conserved epitope on NKp46, underlying its species cross-reactivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, 443 Via Ortega, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, 443 Via Ortega, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Sainiteesh Maddineni
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Madeleine Landry
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University, 1701 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, United States
| | - Celeste Diaz
- Cancer Biology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Aanya Tashfeen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, 350 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Sean A Yamada-Hunter
- Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Crystal L Mackall
- Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Corinne Beinat
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University, 1701 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, United States
| | - John B Sunwoo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| | - Jennifer R Cochran
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, 443 Via Ortega, Stanford, CA, 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang H, Yang L, Wang T, Li Z. NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:63-86. [PMID: 37601277 PMCID: PMC10432724 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.001] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells display a unique inherent ability to identify and eliminate virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They are particularly powerful for elimination of hematological cancers, and have attracted considerable interests for therapy of solid tumors. However, the treatment of solid tumors with NK cells are less effective, which can be attributed to the very complicated immunosuppressive microenvironment that may lead to the inactivation, insufficient expansion, short life, and the poor tumor infiltration of NK cells. Fortunately, the development of advanced nanotechnology has provided potential solutions to these issues, and could improve the immunotherapy efficacy of NK cells. In this review, we summarize the activation and inhibition mechanisms of NK cells in solid tumors, and the recent advances in NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy boosted by diverse nanomaterials. We also propose the challenges and opportunities for the clinical application of NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Boje AS, Pekar L, Koep K, Lipinski B, Rabinovich B, Evers A, Gehlert CL, Krohn S, Xiao Y, Krah S, Zaynagetdinov R, Toleikis L, Poetzsch S, Peipp M, Zielonka S, Klausz K. Impact of antibody architecture and paratope valency on effector functions of bispecific NKp30 x EGFR natural killer cell engagers. MAbs 2024; 16:2315640. [PMID: 38372053 PMCID: PMC10877975 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2024.2315640] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells emerged as a promising effector population that can be harnessed for anti-tumor therapy. In this work, we constructed NK cell engagers (NKCEs) based on NKp30-targeting single domain antibodies (sdAbs) that redirect the cytotoxic potential of NK cells toward epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-expressing tumor cells. We investigated the impact of crucial parameters such as sdAb location, binding valencies, the targeted epitope on NKp30, and the overall antibody architecture on the redirection capacity. Our study exploited two NKp30-specific sdAbs, one of which binds a similar epitope on NKp30 as its natural ligand B7-H6, while the other sdAb addresses a non-competing epitope. For EGFR-positive tumor targeting, humanized antigen-binding domains of therapeutic antibody cetuximab were used. We demonstrate that NKCEs bivalently targeting EGFR and bivalently engaging NKp30 are superior to monovalent NKCEs in promoting NK cell-mediated tumor cell lysis and that the architecture of the NKCE can substantially influence killing capacities depending on the NKp30-targeting sdAb utilized. While having a pronounced impact on NK cell killing efficacy, the capabilities of triggering antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis or complement-dependent cytotoxicity were not significantly affected comparing the bivalent IgG-like NKCEs with cetuximab. However, the fusion of sdAbs can have a slight impact on the NK cell release of immunomodulatory cytokines, as well as on the pharmacokinetic profile of the NKCE due to unfavorable spatial orientation within the molecule architecture. Ultimately, our findings reveal novel insights for the engineering of potent NKCEs triggering the NKp30 axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ammelie Svea Boje
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lukas Pekar
- Antibody Discovery & Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Katharina Koep
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Britta Lipinski
- Antibody Discovery & Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Brian Rabinovich
- Department of Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, EMD Serono Research & Development Institute Inc, 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Andreas Evers
- Antibody Discovery & Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Carina Lynn Gehlert
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Steffen Krohn
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Yanping Xiao
- Department of Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, EMD Serono Research & Development Institute Inc, 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Simon Krah
- Antibody Discovery & Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Rinat Zaynagetdinov
- Department of Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, EMD Serono Research & Development Institute Inc, 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Lars Toleikis
- Early Protein Supply & Characterization, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sven Poetzsch
- Strategic Innovation, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Matthias Peipp
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stefan Zielonka
- Antibody Discovery & Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Katja Klausz
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pan W, Tao T, Qiu Y, Zhu X, Zhou X. Natural killer cells at the forefront of cancer immunotherapy with immune potency, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104231. [PMID: 38070841 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104231] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are vital components of the human immune system, acting as innate lymphocytes and playing a crucial role in immune surveillance. Their unique ability to independently eliminate target cells without antigen contact or antibodies has sparked interest in immunological research. This review examines recent NK cell developments and applications, encompassing immune functions, interactions with target cells, genetic engineering techniques, pharmaceutical interventions, and implications in cancers. Insights into NK cell regulation emerge, with a focus on promising genetic engineering like CAR-engineered NK cells, enhancing specificity against tumors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors also enhance NK cells' potential in cancer therapy. Nanotechnology's emergence as a tool for targeted drug delivery to improve NK cell therapies is explored. In conclusion, NK cells are pivotal in immunity, holding exciting potential in cancer immunotherapy. Ongoing research promises novel therapeutic strategies, advancing immunotherapy and medical interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiyi Pan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China; School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Yishu Qiu
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, New York University, New York, USA
| | - Xiao Zhu
- Computational Systems Biology Lab (CSBL), The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
| | - Xiaorong Zhou
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Choi S, Valente D, Virone‐Oddos A, Mauriac C. Developing a mechanistic translational PK/PD model for a trifunctional NK cell engager to predict the first-in-human dose for acute myeloid leukemia. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13689. [PMID: 37990450 PMCID: PMC10772472 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cell engagers (NKCEs), a treatment that stimulates innate immunity, have lately gained attention owing to their favorable safety profile, and their efficacy. Natural killer (NK) cell activation is driven by immune synapse formation between drugs, NK cells, and tumor cells. However, no clear translational modeling approach has been reported for first-in-human (FIH) dose estimation of humanized NKCEs. We developed the first translational mechanistic synapse-driven pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model for a trifunctional NKp46/CD16a-CD123 (CD123-NKCE) by integrating (i) in vitro target cell cytotoxicity in MOLM-13 tumor cell lines at varying effector-to-tumor cell ratios and incubation intervals; (ii) nonhuman primate PK and profiles of CD123+ cells and NKP46+ NK cells; and (iii) healthy human or patients with acute myeloid leukemia system-specific parameters. To depict direct tumor cell killing by the innate immunity, no transit compartment was included in PK/PD model structures. Model predictions suggested an intrapatient dose escalation of 10/30/100 μg/kg twice weekly to be selected as the starting dose in the FIH trial. However, sensitivity analyses revealed that CD123+ cell growth rate constant and maximal tumor killing rate constant were the key uncertainties to the recommended active dose. This novel translational model structure can be used as the basis to predict clinical PK/PD data for CD123-NKCE, and the translational strategy may serve as a foundation for future advancements of NKCEs.
Collapse
|
36
|
Greenlee JD, Zhang Z, Subramanian T, Liu K, King MR. TRAIL-conjugated liposomes that bind natural killer cells to induce colorectal cancer cell apoptosis. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024; 112:110-120. [PMID: 37772330 PMCID: PMC10794038 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell functionality is a strong indicator of favorable prognosis in cancer patients, making NK cells an appealing therapeutic target to prevent lymph node dissemination. We engineered liposomes that are conjugated with anti-CD335 antibodies for NK cell targeting, and the apoptotic ligand TRAIL to kill cancer cells. Liposomes were made using a thin film hydration method followed by extrusion to approximately 100 nm in diameter and conjugation of proteins via thiol-maleimide click chemistry. TRAIL/anti-CD335 liposomes successfully bound to isolated NK cells. Once piggybacked to the surface of NK cells, these "Super Natural Killer Cells" were able to more effectively kill oxaliplatin-resistant SW620 cells and metastatic COLO205 colorectal cancer cells via TRAIL-mediated apoptosis compared to NK cells alone. Importantly, Super NK cells were more effective under physiological levels of fluid shear stress found in the lymphatics. Liposome biodistribution after intravenous administration confirmed the sustained presence of liposomes within the spleen and tumor draining mesenteric lymph nodes for at least 4 days. These results demonstrate the enhanced apoptotic effects of NK cells armored with liposomal TRAIL against clinically relevant colorectal cancer cells, providing the groundwork for in vivo treatment studies in mouse models of colorectal cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kevin Liu
- Vanderbilt University Department of Biomedical Engineering
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Keri D, Walker M, Singh I, Nishikawa K, Garces F. Next generation of multispecific antibody engineering. Antib Ther 2024; 7:37-52. [PMID: 38235376 PMCID: PMC10791046 DOI: 10.1093/abt/tbad027] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Multispecific antibodies recognize two or more epitopes located on the same or distinct targets. This added capability through protein design allows these man-made molecules to address unmet medical needs that are no longer possible with single targeting such as with monoclonal antibodies or cytokines alone. However, the approach to the development of these multispecific molecules has been met with numerous road bumps, which suggests that a new workflow for multispecific molecules is required. The investigation of the molecular basis that mediates the successful assembly of the building blocks into non-native quaternary structures will lead to the writing of a playbook for multispecifics. This is a must do if we are to design workflows that we can control and in turn predict success. Here, we reflect on the current state-of-the-art of therapeutic biologics and look at the building blocks, in terms of proteins, and tools that can be used to build the foundations of such a next-generation workflow.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Keri
- Department of Protein Therapeutics, Research, Gilead Research, 324 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Matt Walker
- Department of Protein Therapeutics, Research, Gilead Research, 324 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Isha Singh
- Department of Protein Therapeutics, Research, Gilead Research, 324 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Kyle Nishikawa
- Department of Protein Therapeutics, Research, Gilead Research, 324 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Fernando Garces
- Department of Protein Therapeutics, Research, Gilead Research, 324 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Liao B, Tumanut C, Li L, Corper A, Challa D, Chang A, Begum H, Farokhi E, Woods C, Fan X. Identification of novel anti-CD16a antibody clones for the development of effective natural killer cell engagers. MAbs 2024; 16:2381261. [PMID: 39048914 PMCID: PMC11271076 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2024.2381261] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are key players in human innate immunity. Cell engager antibody formats that recruit and activate NK cells more effectively have emerged as a promising immunotherapy approach to target cancer cells through more effective antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Monoclonal antibody drugs with ADCC activity have shown clinical benefit and improved outcomes for patients with certain types of cancer. CD16a, a Fc gamma III receptor, is the major component that is responsible for the ADCC activity of NK cells. Screening AvantGen's yeast displayed human antibody libraries led to the isolation of 2 antibody clones, #1A2 and #2-2A2, that selectively recognize both isoforms (F and V) of CD16a on primary NK cells with high affinity, yet minimally (#1A2) or do not (#2-2A2) cross-react with both allelotypes of CD16b (NA1 and NA2) expressed by neutrophils. Epitope mapping studies revealed that they bind to an epitope dependent on residue Y158 of CD16a, since mutation of Y158 to the corresponding CD16b residue H158 completely abolishes binding to CD16a. When formatted as bispecific antibodies targeting CD16a and a tumor-associated antigen (TAA, e.g. CD19), they exhibit specific binding to NK cells and induce potent NK cell activation upon encountering tumor cells, resulting in effective tumor cell killing. Notably, these bispecific antibody engagers stimulate NK cell cytokine release during co-culture with target cells, resulting in target cell cytotoxicity. These anti-CD16a antibody clones are promising candidates for combination with any TAA of interest, offering the potential for novel NK cell engager-based cancer therapeutics that are minimally affected by the high concentrations of human IgG in the circulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lin Li
- AvantGen, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Quixabeira DCA, Pakola S, Jirovec E, Havunen R, Basnet S, Santos JM, Kudling TV, Clubb JHA, Haybout L, Arias V, Grönberg-Vähä-Koskela S, Cervera-Carrascon V, Kerkelä E, Pasanen A, Anttila M, Tapper J, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Boosting cytotoxicity of adoptive allogeneic NK cell therapy with an oncolytic adenovirus encoding a human vIL-2 cytokine for the treatment of human ovarian cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1679-1690. [PMID: 37949944 PMCID: PMC10721546 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00674-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite good results in the treatment of hematological malignancies, Natural killer (NK) cells have shown limited effectiveness in solid tumors, such as ovarian cancer (OvCa). Here, we assessed the potential of an oncolytic adenovirus expressing a variant interleukin-2 (vIL-2) cytokine, Ad5/3-E2F-d24-vIL2 (vIL-2 virus), also known as TILT-452, to enhance NK cell therapy efficacy in human OvCa ex vivo. Human OvCa surgical specimens were processed into single-cell suspensions and NK cells were expanded from healthy blood donors. OvCa sample digests were co-cultured ex vivo with NK cells and vIL-2 virus and cancer cell killing potential assessed in real time through cell impedance measurement. Proposed therapeutic combination was evaluated in vivo with an OvCa patient-derived xenograft (PDX) in mice. Addition of vIL-2 virus significantly enhanced NK cell therapy killing potential in treated OvCa co-cultures. Similarly, vIL-2 virus in combination with NK cell therapy promoted the best in vivo OvCa tumor control. Mechanistically, vIL-2 virus induced higher percentages of granzyme B in NK cells, and CD8+ T cells, while T regulatory cell proportions remained comparable to NK cell monotherapy in vivo. Ad5/3-E2F-d24-vIL2 virus treatment represents a promising strategy to boost adoptive NK cell therapeutic effect in human OvCa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D C A Quixabeira
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Pakola
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - E Jirovec
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R Havunen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Basnet
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J M Santos
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T V Kudling
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J H A Clubb
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland
| | - L Haybout
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - V Arias
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Grönberg-Vähä-Koskela
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - V Cervera-Carrascon
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland
| | - E Kerkelä
- Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Pasanen
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Anttila
- Pathology, Finnish Food Authority, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Tapper
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Kanerva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.
- Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Guo X, Wu Y, Xue Y, Xie N, Shen G. Revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy: unleashing the potential of bispecific antibodies for targeted treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1291836. [PMID: 38106416 PMCID: PMC10722299 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1291836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent progressions in immunotherapy have transformed cancer treatment, providing a promising strategy that activates the immune system of the patient to find and eliminate cancerous cells. Bispecific antibodies, which engage two separate antigens or one antigen with two distinct epitopes, are of tremendous concern in immunotherapy. The bi-targeting idea enabled by bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) is especially attractive from a medical standpoint since most diseases are complex, involving several receptors, ligands, and signaling pathways. Several research look into the processes in which BsAbs identify different cancer targets such angiogenesis, reproduction, metastasis, and immune regulation. By rerouting cells or altering other pathways, the bispecific proteins perform effector activities in addition to those of natural antibodies. This opens up a wide range of clinical applications and helps patients with resistant tumors respond better to medication. Yet, further study is necessary to identify the best conditions where to use these medications for treating tumor, their appropriate combination partners, and methods to reduce toxicity. In this review, we provide insights into the BsAb format classification based on their composition and symmetry, as well as the delivery mode, focus on the action mechanism of the molecule, and discuss the challenges and future perspectives in BsAb development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Guo
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Xue
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Xie
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Guobo Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Nersesian S, Carter EB, Lee SN, Westhaver LP, Boudreau JE. Killer instincts: natural killer cells as multifactorial cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1269614. [PMID: 38090565 PMCID: PMC10715270 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1269614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells integrate heterogeneous signals for activation and inhibition using germline-encoded receptors. These receptors are stochastically co-expressed, and their concurrent engagement and signaling can adjust the sensitivity of individual cells to putative targets. Against cancers, which mutate and evolve under therapeutic and immunologic pressure, the diversity for recognition provided by NK cells may be key to comprehensive cancer control. NK cells are already being trialled as adoptive cell therapy and targets for immunotherapeutic agents. However, strategies to leverage their naturally occurring diversity and agility have not yet been developed. In this review, we discuss the receptors and signaling pathways through which signals for activation or inhibition are generated in NK cells, focusing on their roles in cancer and potential as targets for immunotherapies. Finally, we consider the impacts of receptor co-expression and the potential to engage multiple pathways of NK cell reactivity to maximize the scope and strength of antitumor activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nersesian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Emily B. Carter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Stacey N. Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Jeanette E. Boudreau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Portillo AL, Monteiro JK, Rojas EA, Ritchie TM, Gillgrass A, Ashkar AA. Charting a killer course to the solid tumor: strategies to recruit and activate NK cells in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1286750. [PMID: 38022679 PMCID: PMC10663242 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1286750] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to expand and activate natural Killer (NK) cells ex vivo has dramatically changed the landscape in the development of novel adoptive cell therapies for treating cancer over the last decade. NK cells have become a key player for cancer immunotherapy due to their innate ability to kill malignant cells while not harming healthy cells, allowing their potential use as an "off-the-shelf" product. Furthermore, recent advancements in NK cell genetic engineering methods have enabled the efficient generation of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-expressing NK cells that can exert both CAR-dependent and antigen-independent killing. Clinically, CAR-NK cells have shown promising efficacy and safety for treating CD19-expressing hematologic malignancies. While the number of pre-clinical studies using CAR-NK cells continues to expand, it is evident that solid tumors pose a unique challenge to NK cell-based adoptive cell therapies. Major barriers for efficacy include low NK cell trafficking and infiltration into solid tumor sites, low persistence, and immunosuppression by the harsh solid tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review we discuss the barriers posed by the solid tumor that prevent immune cell trafficking and NK cell effector functions. We then discuss promising strategies to enhance NK cell infiltration into solid tumor sites and activation within the TME. This includes NK cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms such as NK cell engineering to resist TME-mediated inhibition and use of tumor-targeted agents such as oncolytic viruses expressing chemoattracting and activating payloads. We then discuss opportunities and challenges for using combination therapies to extend NK cell therapies for the treatment of solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana L. Portillo
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jonathan K. Monteiro
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Eduardo A. Rojas
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Tyrah M. Ritchie
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Amy Gillgrass
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Ali A. Ashkar
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Hoces D, Miguens Blanco J, Hernández-López RA. A synthetic biology approach to engineering circuits in immune cells. Immunol Rev 2023; 320:120-137. [PMID: 37464881 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13244] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
A synthetic circuit in a biological system involves the designed assembly of genetic elements, biomolecules, or cells to create a defined function. These circuits are central in synthetic biology, enabling the reprogramming of cellular behavior and the engineering of cells with customized responses. In cancer therapeutics, engineering T cells with circuits have the potential to overcome the challenges of current approaches, for example, by allowing specific recognition and killing of cancer cells. Recent advances also facilitate engineering integrated circuits for the controlled release of therapeutic molecules at specified locations, for example, in a solid tumor. In this review, we discuss recent strategies and applications of synthetic receptor circuits aimed at enhancing immune cell functions for cancer immunotherapy. We begin by introducing the concept of circuits in networks at the molecular and cellular scales and provide an analysis of the development and implementation of several synthetic circuits in T cells that have the goal to overcome current challenges in cancer immunotherapy. These include specific targeting of cancer cells, increased T-cell proliferation, and persistence in the tumor microenvironment. By harnessing the power of synthetic biology, and the characteristics of certain circuit architectures, it is now possible to engineer a new generation of immune cells that recognize cancer cells, while minimizing off-target toxicities. We specifically discuss T-cell circuits for antigen density sensing. These circuits allow targeting of solid tumors that share antigens with normal tissues. Additionally, we explore designs for synthetic circuits that could control T-cell differentiation or T-cell fate as well as the concept of synthetic multicellular circuits that leverage cellular communication and division of labor to achieve improved therapeutic efficacy. As our understanding of cell biology expands and novel tools for genome, protein, and cell engineering are developed, we anticipate further innovative approaches to emerge in the design and engineering of circuits in immune cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hoces
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jesús Miguens Blanco
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Rogelio A Hernández-López
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford, California, USA
- Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Momayyezi P, Bilev E, Ljunggren HG, Hammer Q. Viral escape from NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance: A lesson for cancer immunotherapy? Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2350465. [PMID: 37526136 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that participate in immune responses against virus-infected cells and tumors. As a countermeasure, viruses and tumors employ strategies to evade NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance. In this review, we examine immune evasion strategies employed by viruses, focusing on examples from human CMV and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. We explore selected viral evasion mechanisms categorized into three classes: (1) providing ligands for the inhibitory receptor NKG2A, (2) downregulating ligands for the activating receptor NKG2D, and (3) inducing the immunosuppressive cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. For each class, we draw parallels between immune evasion by viruses and tumors, reviewing potential opportunities for overcoming evasion in cancer therapy. We suggest that in-depth investigations of host-pathogen interactions between viruses and NK cells will not only deepen our understanding of viral immune evasion but also shed light on how NK cells counter such evasion attempts. Thus, due to the parallels of immune evasion by viruses and tumors, we propose that insights gained from antiviral NK-cell responses may serve as valuable lessons that can be leveraged for designing future cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pouria Momayyezi
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eleni Bilev
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Quirin Hammer
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Blanc F, Bertho N, Piton G, Leplat JJ, Egidy G, Bourneuf E, Vincent-Naulleau S, Prévost-Blondel A. Deciphering the immune reaction leading to spontaneous melanoma regression: initial role of MHCII + CD163 - macrophages. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3507-3521. [PMID: 37526660 PMCID: PMC10576715 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03503-6] [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: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The human cutaneous metastatic melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer. Partial, or less frequently complete spontaneous regressions could be observed, mainly mediated by T cells. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms are not fully unraveled. We investigated the first events of the immune response related to cancer regression in Melanoma-bearing Libechov Minipigs (MeLiM), a unique swine model of cutaneous melanoma that regresses spontaneously. Using a multiparameter flow cytometry strategy and integrating new clinical and histological criteria of the regression, we show that T cells and B cells are present only in the late stages, arguing against their role in the initial destruction of malignant cells. NK cells infiltrate the tumors before T cells and therefore might be involved in the induction of the regression process. Myeloid cells represent the main immune population within the tumor microenvironment regardless of the regression stage. Among those, MHCII+ CD163- macrophages that differ phenotypically and functionally compared to other tumor-associated macrophages, increase in number together with the first signs of regression suggesting their crucial contribution to initiating the regression process. Our study supports the importance of macrophage reprogramming in humans to improve current immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fany Blanc
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, 75014, Paris, France.
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
| | - Nicolas Bertho
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, VIM, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- INRAE, Oniris, BIOEPAR, 44300, Nantes, France
| | - Guillaume Piton
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Leplat
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Giorgia Egidy
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourneuf
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Laboratoire de Cancérologie Expérimentale, CEA/DRF/IBFJ/IRCM, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Silvia Vincent-Naulleau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Plateforme animalerie, CEA/DRF/IBFJ/IRCM, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Bureau des Etudes Biomédicales chez l'Animal, CEA/DRF/BEBA, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Armelle Prévost-Blondel
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, 75014, Paris, France.
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
- CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Lutz S, Klausz K, Albici AM, Ebinger L, Sellmer L, Teipel H, Frenzel A, Langner A, Winterberg D, Krohn S, Hust M, Schirrmann T, Dübel S, Scherließ R, Humpe A, Gramatzki M, Kellner C, Peipp M. Novel NKG2D-directed bispecific antibodies enhance antibody-mediated killing of malignant B cells by NK cells and T cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227572. [PMID: 37965326 PMCID: PMC10641740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The activating receptor natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) represents an attractive target for immunotherapy as it exerts a crucial role in cancer immunosurveillance by regulating the activity of cytotoxic lymphocytes. In this study, a panel of novel NKG2D-specific single-chain fragments variable (scFv) were isolated from naïve human antibody gene libraries and fused to the fragment antigen binding (Fab) of rituximab to obtain [CD20×NKG2D] bibodies with the aim to recruit cytotoxic lymphocytes to lymphoma cells. All bispecific antibodies bound both antigens simultaneously. Two bibody constructs, [CD20×NKG2D#3] and [CD20×NKG2D#32], efficiently activated natural killer (NK) cells in co-cultures with CD20+ lymphoma cells. Both bibodies triggered NK cell-mediated lysis of lymphoma cells and especially enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) by CD38 or CD19 specific monoclonal antibodies suggesting a synergistic effect between NKG2D and FcγRIIIA signaling pathways in NK cell activation. The [CD20×NKG2D] bibodies were not effective in redirecting CD8+ T cells as single agents, but enhanced cytotoxicity when combined with a bispecific [CD19×CD3] T cell engager, indicating that NKG2D signaling also supports CD3-mediated T cell activation. In conclusion, engagement of NKG2D with bispecific antibodies is attractive to directly activate cytotoxic lymphocytes or to support their activation by monoclonal antibodies or bispecific T cell engagers. As a perspective, co-targeting of two tumor antigens may allow fine-tuning of antibody cancer therapies. Our proposed combinatorial approach is potentially applicable for many existing immunotherapies but further testing in different preclinical models is necessary to explore the full potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Lutz
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Katja Klausz
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anca-Maria Albici
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Ebinger
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Sellmer
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hannah Teipel
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Anna Langner
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Dorothee Winterberg
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Steffen Krohn
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael Hust
- YUMAB GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Abteilung Biotechnologie, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Dübel
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Biochemie, Biotechnologie und Bioinformatik, Abteilung Biotechnologie, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Regina Scherließ
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas Humpe
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Gramatzki
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Kellner
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Peipp
- Division of Antibody-Based Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine II, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yanakieva D, Vollmer L, Evers A, Siegmund V, Arras P, Pekar L, Doerner A, Valldorf B, Kolmar H, Zielonka S, Krah S. Cattle-derived knob paratopes grafted onto peripheral loops of the IgG1 Fc region enable the generation of a novel symmetric bispecific antibody format. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1238313. [PMID: 37942319 PMCID: PMC10628450 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1238313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work we present a novel symmetric bispecific antibody format based on engraftments of cattle-derived knob paratopes onto peripheral loops of the IgG1 Fc region. For this, knob architectures obtained from bovine ultralong CDR-H3 antibodies were inserted into the AB loop or EF loop of the CH3 domain, enabling the introduction of an artificial binding specificity into an IgG molecule. We demonstrate that inserted knob domains largely retain their binding affinities, resulting into bispecific antibody derivatives versatile for effector cell redirection. Essentially, generated bispecifics demonstrated adequate biophysical properties and were not compromised in their Fc mediated functionalities such as FcRn or FcγRIIIa binding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desislava Yanakieva
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Lena Vollmer
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Andreas Evers
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Vanessa Siegmund
- Early Protein Supply and Characterization, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Paul Arras
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Lukas Pekar
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Achim Doerner
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Zielonka
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Simon Krah
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ma S, Caligiuri MA, Yu J. Harnessing Natural Killer Cells for Lung Cancer Therapy. Cancer Res 2023; 83:3327-3339. [PMID: 37531223 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Although natural killer (NK) cells are garnering interest as a potential anticancer therapy because they selectively recognize and eliminate cancer cells, their use in treating solid tumors, including lung cancer, has been limited due to impediments to their efficacy, such as their limited ability to reach tumor tissues, the reduced antitumor activity of tumor-infiltrating NK cells, and the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the cross-talk between the lung cancer TME and NK cells. We highlight the various mechanisms used by the TME to modulate NK-cell phenotypes and limit infiltration, explore the role of the TME in limiting the antitumor activity of NK cells, and discuss the current challenges and obstacles that hinder the success of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Potential opportunities and promising strategies to address these challenges have been implemented or are being developed to optimize NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Through critical evaluation of existing literature and emerging trends, this review provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for treating lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael A Caligiuri
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Ma S, Li X, Mai Y, Guo J, Zuo W, Yang J. Immunotherapeutic treatment of lung cancer and bone metastasis with a mPLA/mRNA tumor vaccine. Acta Biomater 2023; 169:489-499. [PMID: 37536492 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Malignant expansion and rapid metastasis are the main limiting factors to successful treatment of lung cancer. Messenger RNA (mRNA) tumor vaccines are a promising immunotherapeutic treatment for lung cancer as well as other metastatic cancers. Herein, we developed a mPLA/mRNA tumor vaccine (mLPR) to escort mRNA into the cytoplasm and improve immune response with the help of TLR4 agonist mPLA. After nasal administration, the mLPR vaccine stimulated the maturation of dendritic cells, reprogramed M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages, as well cross-activated innate and adaptive immune responses. The mLPR vaccine inhibited the development of lung cancer and reduced bone metastasis by means of immune cell activation, IFN-γ/IL-12 cytokine secretion, and natural killer cell-mediated antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity. The mPLA/mRNA tumor vaccine will provide ideas and application prospects for the use of mRNA tumor vaccine in the treatment of lung cancer. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Lung cancer and bone metastasis seriously affect patient survival, and traditional treatment methods are inefficient and have many side effects. We have constructed an mRNA vaccine that simultaneously activates the innate immune and adaptive responses of the body, in order to achieve better immunotherapeutic effects. To sum up, we confirmed through vaccine design and in vitro and in vivo immunological studies that the mLPR vaccine stimulated the maturation of dendritic cells, reprogrammed M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages, as well cross activated in vivo and adaptive immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China
| | - Xiaolong Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China
| | - Yaping Mai
- Science and Technology Center, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China
| | - Jueshuo Guo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China
| | - Wenbao Zuo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China.
| | - Jianhong Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, No.1160 Shengli South Street, Yinchuan, 750004, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Lachota M, Zielniok K, Palacios D, Kanaya M, Penna L, Hoel HJ, Wiiger MT, Kveberg L, Hautz W, Zagożdżon R, Malmberg KJ. Mapping the chemotactic landscape in NK cells reveals subset-specific synergistic migratory responses to dual chemokine receptor ligation. EBioMedicine 2023; 96:104811. [PMID: 37741009 PMCID: PMC10520535 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells have a unique capability of spontaneous cytotoxicity against malignant cells and hold promise for off-the-shelf cell therapy against cancer. One of the key challenges in the field is to improve NK cell homing to solid tumors. METHODS To gain a deeper understanding of the cellular mechanisms regulating trafficking of NK cells into the tumor, we used high-dimensional flow cytometry, mass cytometry, and single-cell RNA-sequencing combined with functional assays, creating a comprehensive map of human NK cell migration phenotypes. FINDINGS We found that the chemokine receptor repertoire of peripheral blood NK cells changes in a coordinated manner becoming progressively more diversified during NK cell differentiation and correlating tightly with the migratory response of the distinct NK cell subsets. Simultaneous ligation of CXCR1/2 and CX3CR1, synergistically potentiated the migratory response of NK cells. Analysis of 9471 solid cancers from publicly available TCGA/TARGET repositories revealed dominant chemokine patterns that varied across tumor types but with no tumor group expressing ligands for more than one chemokine receptor present on mature NK cells. INTERPRETATION The finding that chemokine stimulation can elicit a synergistic migratory response in NK cells combined with the identified lack of naturally occurring pairs of chemokines-chemokine receptors in human cancers may explain the systematic exclusion of NK cells from the tumor microenvironment and provides a basis for engineering next-generation NK cell therapies against malignancies. FUNDING The Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the National Science Centre, Poland, The Norwegian Cancer Society, the Norwegian Research Council, the South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority, The Swedish Cancer Society, the Swedish Children's Cancer Foundation, The Swedish Research Council, The Center of Excellence: Precision Immunotherapy Alliance, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation and National Cancer Institute.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mieszko Lachota
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Zielniok
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Palacios
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Minoru Kanaya
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Leena Penna
- Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, Research and Development, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Julie Hoel
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Merete Thune Wiiger
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Lise Kveberg
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Wojciech Hautz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Radosław Zagożdżon
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karl-Johan Malmberg
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway; Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|