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Pesini C, Artal L, Paúl Bernal J, Sánchez Martinez D, Pardo J, Ramírez-Labrada A. In-depth analysis of the interplay between oncogenic mutations and NK cell-mediated cancer surveillance in solid tumors. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2379062. [PMID: 39036370 PMCID: PMC11259085 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2379062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in antitumoral and antiviral responses. Yet, cancer cells can alter themselves or the microenvironment through the secretion of cytokines or other factors, hindering NK cell activation and promoting a less cytotoxic phenotype. These resistance mechanisms, often referred to as the "hallmarks of cancer" are significantly influenced by the activation of oncogenes, impacting most, if not all, of the described hallmarks. Along with oncogenes, other types of genes, the tumor suppressor genes are frequently mutated or modified during cancer. Traditionally, these genes have been associated with uncontrollable tumor growth and apoptosis resistance. Recent evidence suggests oncogenic mutations extend beyond modulating cell death/proliferation programs, influencing cancer immunosurveillance. While T cells have been more studied, the results obtained highlight NK cells as emerging key protagonists for enhancing tumor cell elimination by modulating oncogenic activity. A few recent studies highlight the crucial role of oncogenic mutations in NK cell-mediated cancer recognition, impacting angiogenesis, stress ligands, and signaling balance within the tumor microenvironment. This review will critically examine recent discoveries correlating oncogenic mutations to NK cell-mediated cancer immunosurveillance, a relatively underexplored area, particularly in the era dominated by immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cells. Building on these insights, we will explore opportunities to improve NK cell-based immunotherapies, which are increasingly recognized as promising alternatives for treating low-antigenic tumors, offering significant advantages in terms of safety and manufacturing suitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Pesini
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Carlos III Health Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Radiology, Pediatry and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Artal
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Institute of Carbochemistry (ICB-CSIC), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jorge Paúl Bernal
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diego Sánchez Martinez
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón I + D Foundation (ARAID), Government of Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Julián Pardo
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Carlos III Health Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Radiology, Pediatry and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ariel Ramírez-Labrada
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Carlos III Health Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
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2
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Pathania AS. Immune Microenvironment in Childhood Cancers: Characteristics and Therapeutic Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2201. [PMID: 38927907 PMCID: PMC11201451 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122201] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment is pivotal in cancer initiation, advancement, and regulation. Its molecular and cellular composition is critical throughout the disease, as it can influence the balance between suppressive and cytotoxic immune responses within the tumor's vicinity. Studies on the tumor immune microenvironment have enriched our understanding of the intricate interplay between tumors and their immunological surroundings in various human cancers. These studies illuminate the role of significant components of the immune microenvironment, which have not been extensively explored in pediatric tumors before and may influence the responsiveness or resistance to therapeutic agents. Our deepening understanding of the pediatric tumor immune microenvironment is helping to overcome challenges related to the effectiveness of existing therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapies. Although in the early stages, targeted therapies that modulate the tumor immune microenvironment of pediatric solid tumors hold promise for improved outcomes. Focusing on various aspects of tumor immune biology in pediatric patients presents a therapeutic opportunity that could improve treatment outcomes. This review offers a comprehensive examination of recent literature concerning profiling the immune microenvironment in various pediatric tumors. It seeks to condense research findings on characterizing the immune microenvironment in pediatric tumors and its impact on tumor development, metastasis, and response to therapeutic modalities. It covers the immune microenvironment's role in tumor development, interactions with tumor cells, and its impact on the tumor's response to immunotherapy. The review also discusses challenges targeting the immune microenvironment for pediatric cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup Singh Pathania
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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3
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Trotter TN, Wilson A, McBane J, Dagotto CE, Yang XY, Wei JP, Lei G, Thrash H, Snyder JC, Lyerly HK, Hartman ZC. Overcoming Xenoantigen Immunity to Enable Cellular Tracking and Gene Regulation with Immune-competent "NoGlow" Mice. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:1050-1062. [PMID: 38592453 PMCID: PMC11003454 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-24-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The ability to temporally regulate gene expression and track labeled cells makes animal models powerful biomedical tools. However, sudden expression of xenobiotic genes [e.g., GFP, luciferase (Luc), or rtTA3] can trigger inadvertent immunity that suppresses foreign protein expression or results in complete rejection of transplanted cells. Germline exposure to foreign antigens somewhat addresses these challenges; however, native fluorescence and bioluminescence abrogates the utility of reporter proteins and highly spatiotemporally restricted expression can lead to suboptimal xenoantigen tolerance. To overcome these unwanted immune responses and enable reliable cell tracking/gene regulation, we developed a novel mouse model that selectively expresses antigen-intact but nonfunctional forms of GFP and Luc, as well as rtTA3, after CRE-mediated recombination. Using tissue-specific CREs, we observed model and sex-based differences in immune tolerance to the encoded xenoantigens, illustrating the obstacles of tolerizing animals to foreign genes and validating the utility of these "NoGlow" mice to dissect mechanisms of central and peripheral tolerance. Critically, tissue unrestricted NoGlow mice possess no detectable background fluorescence or luminescence and exhibit limited adaptive immunity against encoded transgenic xenoantigens after vaccination. Moreover, we demonstrate that NoGlow mice allow tracking and tetracycline-inducible gene regulation of triple-transgenic cells expressing GFP/Luc/rtTA3, in contrast to transgene-negative immune-competent mice that eliminate these cells or prohibit metastatic seeding. Notably, this model enables de novo metastasis from orthotopically implanted, triple-transgenic tumor cells, despite high xenoantigen expression. Altogether, the NoGlow model provides a critical resource for in vivo studies across disciplines, including oncology, developmental biology, infectious disease, autoimmunity, and transplantation. SIGNIFICANCE Multitolerant NoGlow mice enable tracking and gene manipulation of transplanted tumor cells without immune-mediated rejection, thus providing a platform to investigate novel mechanisms of adaptive immunity related to metastasis, immunotherapy, and tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Wilson
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jason McBane
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Xiao-Yi Yang
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jun-Ping Wei
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Gangjun Lei
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Hannah Thrash
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Joshua C. Snyder
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Herbert Kim Lyerly
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Zachary C. Hartman
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
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4
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Mortezaee K. Selective targeting or reprogramming of intra-tumoral Tregs. Med Oncol 2024; 41:71. [PMID: 38341821 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02300-0] [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: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical immunosuppressive cells that are frequently present in the tumor microenvironment of solid cancers and enable progression of tumors toward metastasis. The cells expand in response to tumor-associated antigens and are actively involved in bypassing immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors through integrating numerous environmental signals. A point here is that Tregs are clonally distinct in peripheral blood from tumor area. Currently, an effective and novel task in cancer immunotherapy is to selectively destabilize or deplete intra-tumoral Tregs in order to avoid systemic inflammatory events. Helios is a transcription factor expressed selectively by Tregs and promotes their stabilization, and Trps1 is a master regulator of intra-tumoral Tregs. Anti-CCR8 and the IL-2Rβγ agonist Bempegaldesleukin selectively target intra-tumoral Treg population, with the former approved to not elicit autoimmunity. Disarming Treg-related immunosuppression in tumors through diverting their reprogramming or promoting naïve T cell differentiation into cells with effector immune activating profile is another promising area of research in cancer immunotherapy. Blimp-1 inhibitors and glucocorticoid-induced TNFR-related protein agonists are example approaches that can be used for diverting Treg differentiation into Th1-like CD4+ T cells, thereby powering immunogenicity against cancer. Finally, selective target of intra-tumoral Tregs and their reprogramming into effector T cells is applicable using low-dose chemotherapy, and high-salt and high-tryptophan diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
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Zhang X, Zhang M, Sun H, Wang X, Wang X, Sheng W, Xu M. The role of transcription factors in the crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor cells. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00046-8. [PMID: 38309692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.01.033] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcription factors (TFs) fulfill a critical role in the formation and maintenance of different cell types during the developmental process as well as disease. It is believed that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activation status of tissue-resident fibroblasts or derived from form other cell types via transdifferentiation or dedifferentiation. Despite a subgroup of CAFs exhibit anti-cancer effects, most of them are reported to exert effects on tumor progression, further indicating their heterogeneous origin. AIM OF REVIEW This review aimed to summarize and review the roles of TFs in the reciprocal crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells, discuss the emerging mechanisms, and their roles in cell-fate decision, cellular reprogramming and advancing our understanding of the gene regulatory networks over the period of cancer initiation and progression. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This manuscript delves into the key contributory factors of TFs that are involved in activating CAFs and maintaining their unique states. Additionally, it explores how TFs play a pivotal and multifaceted role in the reciprocal crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells. This includes their involvement in processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, as well as metabolic reprogramming. TFs also have a role in constructing an immunosuppressive microenvironment, inducing resistance to radiation and chemotherapy, facilitating angiogenesis, and even 'educating' CAFs to support the malignancies of tumor cells. Furthermore, this manuscript delves into the current status of TF-targeted therapy and considers the future directions of TFs in conjunction with anti-CAFs therapies to address the challenges in clinical cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weiqi Sheng
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Midie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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6
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Guo Z, Zhao Y, Xu M, Zhao L, Wang X. Natural killer cell-based signature: Prognostic analysis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3671. [PMID: 38384136 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3671] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is a challenging cancer with significant clinical implications. Natural killer (NK) cells have emerged as important players in tumor immunosurveillance, yet their role and potential as prognostic biomarkers in HNSC remain unclear. METHODS Quantitative analysis using multiple algorithms identified FCRL1, KIR3DL2 and ZNF541 as molecules significantly associated with local NK cell infiltration and patient survival. A prognostic model based on these molecules demonstrated robust predictive performance. RESULTS Analysis of high- and low-risk patient groups revealed distinct differences in the tumor microenvironment, indicating an inhibitory immune microenvironment in high-risk patients. Notably, low-risk patients exhibited potential sensitivity to immunotherapy and showed favorable responses to specific drugs such as axitinib, methotrexate, rapamycin and vorinostat. NK cells, important effectors of the innate immune response, were found to play a crucial role in HNSC immunity. The present study provides valuable insights into the correlation between FCRL1, KIR3DL2, ZNF541 and NK cell infiltration, paving the way for future investigations into their roles in HNSC. Activation of NOTCH signaling, MYC targets, DNA repair, E2F targets, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, G2M checkpoint and mitotic spindle pathways in high-risk patients suggests their involvement in disease progression and poor prognosis. CONCLUSIONS The present study reveals the significance of NK cells in HNSC and their potential as prognostic biomarkers. The CFKZ score offers a promising approach for predicting patient outcomes and guiding personalized treatment decisions in HNSC. These findings contribute to our understanding of HNSC immunobiology and hold implications for precision medicine in HNSC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhao Guo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxia Zhao
- Department of Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Long Zhao
- Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolei Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Quail DF, Park M, Welm AL, Ekiz HA. Breast Cancer Immunity: It is TIME for the Next Chapter. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041324. [PMID: 37188526 PMCID: PMC10835621 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041324] [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: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Our ability to interrogate the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) at an ever-increasing granularity has uncovered critical determinants of disease progression. Not only do we now have a better understanding of the immune response in breast cancer, but it is becoming possible to leverage key mechanisms to effectively combat this disease. Almost every component of the immune system plays a role in enabling or inhibiting breast tumor growth. Building on early seminal work showing the involvement of T cells and macrophages in controlling breast cancer progression and metastasis, single-cell genomics and spatial proteomics approaches have recently expanded our view of the TIME. In this article, we provide a detailed description of the immune response against breast cancer and examine its heterogeneity in disease subtypes. We discuss preclinical models that enable dissecting the mechanisms responsible for tumor clearance or immune evasion and draw parallels and distinctions between human disease and murine counterparts. Last, as the cancer immunology field is moving toward the analysis of the TIME at the cellular and spatial levels, we highlight key studies that revealed previously unappreciated complexity in breast cancer using these technologies. Taken together, this article summarizes what is known in breast cancer immunology through the lens of translational research and identifies future directions to improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela F Quail
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Morag Park
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Departments of Biochemistry, Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Alana L Welm
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - H Atakan Ekiz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce, 35430 Urla, Izmir, Turkey
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Pan Y, Zou Q, Yin W, Huang Z, Zhao Y, Mo Z, Li L, Yang J. Development of lymph node metastasis-related prognostic markers in breast cancer. J Proteomics 2024; 291:105045. [PMID: 37939914 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.105045] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymph node metastasis (LNM) from Breast cancer (BC) is commonly seen in BC progression. Currently, the identification of genes linked with LNM in BC remains in mystery. METHODS Genes related to BC LNM were screened, and a risk model was constructed based on LASSO-Cox analysis. Combined with the Kaplan-Meier curve, the ability of riskscore to distinguish different baseline characteristics was evaluated, and model was verified by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The expression levels of prognostic marker genes were analyzed by qRT-PCR and western blot (WB). RESULTS A higher survival rate and longer survival time in low-risk BC patients. The 1, 3 and 5 year AUC values of the training set were 0.79, 0.74, and 0.73, respectively. Results for the validation set was similar to the training set. The differentially expressed genes between the high- and low-risk groups were significantly enriched in immune pathways. In addition, the low-risk group had higher levels of immune infiltration. qRT-PCR and WB results showed that in BC, CDH10, SMR3A, POU3F2, and FABP7 were down-regulated, and LHX1 was up-regulated. CONCLUSIONS We built a prognostic model of BC based on LNM-related genes, proffering evaluation for prognosis and precise cure of BC. SIGNIFICANCE At present, the genes related to lymph node metastasis in BC are still largely unknown and need to be further explored. Searching for potential lymph node metastasis-related genes of BC will provide meaningful biomarkers for BC treatment. Based on TCGA-BRCA data, we established an effective 11-gene prognostic risk model that could predict patient outcomes independently. Our model could classify BC patients and distinguish patients with poor prognosis effectively. Besides, the feature genes we identified might exert a predictive function in immunotherapy. The results of this study provide a new reference for the prognosis and treatment of BC patients with lymph node metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhua Pan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Quanqing Zou
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Wu Yin
- Department of Pathology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No.6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yingzhu Zhao
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Zongming Mo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Lihui Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Jianrong Yang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Taoyuan Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning 530021, China.
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Delclaux I, Ventre KS, Jones D, Lund AW. The tumor-draining lymph node as a reservoir for systemic immune surveillance. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:28-37. [PMID: 37863720 PMCID: PMC10843049 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.09.006] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Early in solid tumor development, antigens are presented in tumor-draining lymph nodes (tdLNs), a process that is necessary to set up immune surveillance. Recent evidence indicates that tdLNs fuel systemic tumor-specific T cell responses which may halt cancer progression and facilitate future responses to immunotherapy. These protective responses, however, are subject to progressive dysfunction exacerbated by lymph node (LN) metastasis. We discuss emerging preclinical and clinical literature indicating that the tdLN is a crucial reservoir for systemic immunity that can potentiate immune surveillance. We also discuss the impact of LN metastasis and argue that a better understanding of the relationship between LN metastasis and systemic immunity will be necessary to direct regional disease management in the era of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Delclaux
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katherine S Ventre
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dennis Jones
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Amanda W Lund
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
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10
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Balzasch BM, Cerwenka A. Microenvironmental signals shaping NK-cell reactivity in cancer. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250103. [PMID: 37194594 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250103] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the postulation of the "missing-self" concept, much progress has been made in defining requirements for NK-cell activation. Unlike T lymphocytes that process signals from receptors in a hierarchic manner dominated by the T-cell receptors, NK cells integrate receptor signals more "democratically." Signals originate not only the downstream of cell-surface receptors triggered by membrane-bound ligands or cytokines, but are also mediated by specialized microenvironmental sensors that perceive the cellular surrounding by detecting metabolites or the availability of oxygen. Thus, NK-cell effector functions are driven in an organ and disease-dependent manner. Here, we review the latest findings on how NK-cell reactivity in cancer is determined by the reception and integration of complex signals. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to guide novel combinatorial approaches for NK-cell-based anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca M Balzasch
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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11
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Ji H, Hu C, Yang X, Liu Y, Ji G, Ge S, Wang X, Wang M. Lymph node metastasis in cancer progression: molecular mechanisms, clinical significance and therapeutic interventions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:367. [PMID: 37752146 PMCID: PMC10522642 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01576-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymph nodes (LNs) are important hubs for metastatic cell arrest and growth, immune modulation, and secondary dissemination to distant sites through a series of mechanisms, and it has been proved that lymph node metastasis (LNM) is an essential prognostic indicator in many different types of cancer. Therefore, it is important for oncologists to understand the mechanisms of tumor cells to metastasize to LNs, as well as how LNM affects the prognosis and therapy of patients with cancer in order to provide patients with accurate disease assessment and effective treatment strategies. In recent years, with the updates in both basic and clinical studies on LNM and the application of advanced medical technologies, much progress has been made in the understanding of the mechanisms of LNM and the strategies for diagnosis and treatment of LNM. In this review, current knowledge of the anatomical and physiological characteristics of LNs, as well as the molecular mechanisms of LNM, are described. The clinical significance of LNM in different anatomical sites is summarized, including the roles of LNM playing in staging, prognostic prediction, and treatment selection for patients with various types of cancers. And the novel exploration and academic disputes of strategies for recognition, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions of metastatic LNs are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Ji
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chuang Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xuhui Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yuanhao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Guangyu Ji
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiansong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Mingsong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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12
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Viúdez-Pareja C, Kreft E, García-Caballero M. Immunomodulatory properties of the lymphatic endothelium in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1235812. [PMID: 37744339 PMCID: PMC10512957 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1235812] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an intricate complex and dynamic structure composed of various cell types, including tumor, stromal and immune cells. Within this complex network, lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) play a crucial role in regulating immune responses and influencing tumor progression and metastatic dissemination to lymph node and distant organs. Interestingly, LECs possess unique immunomodulatory properties that can either promote or inhibit anti-tumor immune responses. In fact, tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis can facilitate tumor cell dissemination and metastasis supporting immunoevasion, but also, different molecular mechanisms involved in LEC-mediated anti-tumor immunity have been already described. In this context, the crosstalk between cancer cells, LECs and immune cells and how this communication can shape the immune landscape in the TME is gaining increased interest in recent years. In this review, we present a comprehensive and updated report about the immunomodulatory properties of the lymphatic endothelium within the TME, with special focus on primary tumors and tumor-draining lymph nodes. Furthermore, we outline emerging research investigating the potential therapeutic strategies targeting the lymphatic endothelium to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. Understanding the intricate mechanisms involved in LEC-mediated immune modulation in the TME opens up new possibilities for the development of innovative approaches to fight cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Viúdez-Pareja
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ewa Kreft
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Melissa García-Caballero
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
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13
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Abstract
Lymph node metastasis in breast cancer depends in part on the acquisition of an IFN-dependent, MHC-II+ state that induces regulatory T cell expansion and local immune suppression (Lei et al. 2023. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20221847).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda W. Lund
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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14
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Peng JM, Su YL. Lymph node metastasis and tumor-educated immune tolerance: Potential therapeutic targets against distant metastasis. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115731. [PMID: 37541450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Lymph node metastasis has been shown to positively associated with the prognosis of many cancers. However, in clinical treatment, lymphadenectomy is not always successful, suggesting that immune cells in the tumor and sentinel lymph nodes still play a pivotal role in tumor immunosuppression. Recent studies had shown that tumors can tolerate immune cells through multiple strategies, including tumor-induced macrophage reprogramming, T cells inactivation, production of B cells pathogenic antibodies and activation of regulatory T cells to promote tumor colonization, growth, and metastasis in lymph nodes. We reviewed the bidirectional effect of immune cells on anti-tumor or promotion of cancer cell metastasis during lymph node metastasis, and the mechanisms by which malignant cancer cells modify immune cells to create a more favorable environment for the growth and survival of cancer cells. Research and treatment strategies focusing on the immune system in lymph nodes and potential immune targets in lymph node metastasis were also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jei-Ming Peng
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 123, Dapi Rd., Niaosong Dist., Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Li Su
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, No. 123, Dapi Rd., Niaosong Dist., Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan.
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15
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Suman S, Markovic SN. Melanoma-derived mediators can foster the premetastatic niche: crossroad to lymphatic metastasis. Trends Immunol 2023; 44:724-743. [PMID: 37573226 PMCID: PMC10528107 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
The natural history of advanced malignant melanoma demonstrates that, in most cases, widespread tumor dissemination is preceded by regional metastases involving tumor-draining lymph nodes [sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs)]. Under physiological conditions, LNs play a central role in immunosurveillance to non-self-antigens to which they are exposed via afferent lymph. The dysfunctional immunity in SLNs is mediated by tumor secretory factors that allow the survival of metastatic melanoma cells within the LN by creating a premetastatic niche (PMN). Recent studies outline the altered microenvironment of LNs shaped by melanoma mediators. Here, we discuss tumor secretory factors involved in subverting tumor immunity and remodeling LNs and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies to reinvigorate antitumoral immunity in SLNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shankar Suman
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Svetomir N Markovic
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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16
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Zhang X, Wu J, Hu C, Zheng X, Guo Z, Li L. CXCL11 negatively regulated by MED19 favours antitumour immune infiltration in breast cancer. Cytokine 2023; 162:156106. [PMID: 36512935 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Through microarray results, we found that the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 11 (CXCL11) was negatively regulated by mediator complex subunit 19 (MED19), a protumour factor. However, the biological role and potential mechanism of CXCL11 need to be explored in breast cancer (BRCA). METHODS The BRCA dataset was obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Our microarray data and the BRCA dataset of TCGA were analysed and visualized using the R software package. The mRNA and protein levels were measured by qRT-PCR and western blotting. RESULTS Inhibition of MED19 in MDA-MB-231 cells caused CXCL11 upregulation. The relative positive regulation of cytokine pathways was enriched after MED19 knockdown. High CXCL11 was determined to be positively correlated with immune response activation, increased antitumour immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint molecule expression, and enhanced sensitivity to immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Collectively, CXCL11 promoted antitumour immunity and was regulated by MED19 in BRCA. Clarifying the prognostic value and underlying mechanism of CXCL11 in BRCA could provide a theoretical basis to find new diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufen Zhang
- Oncology Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, China
| | - Junqiang Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Caixia Hu
- Oncology Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Zijian Guo
- Department of Oncological Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
| | - Lihua Li
- Oncology Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, China.
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17
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Katakai T. Yin and yang roles of B lymphocytes in solid tumors: Balance between antitumor immunity and immune tolerance/immunosuppression in tumor-draining lymph nodes. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1088129. [PMID: 36761946 PMCID: PMC9902938 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1088129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of B cells in antitumor immunity has been reported to be either promotive or suppressive, but the specific mechanism remains to be comprehensively understood. However, this complicated situation likely depends on the temporal and spatial relationship between the developing tumor and B cells that recognize tumor antigens. Unlike responses against microbial or pathogenic infections, tumor cells are derived from autologous cells that have mutated and become aberrant; thus, elimination by the adaptive immune system is essentially inefficient. If tumor cells can evade immune attack at an early stage, non-destructive responses, such as tolerance and immunosuppression, are established over time. In tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs), tumor antigen-reactive B cells potentially acquire immunoregulatory phenotypes and contribute to an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Therefore, triggering and enhancing antitumor responses by immunotherapies require selective control of these regulatory B cell subsets in TDLNs. In contrast, B cell infiltration and formation of tertiary lymphoid structures in tumors are positively correlated with therapeutic prognosis, suggesting that tumor antigen-specific activation of B cells and antibody production are advantageous for antitumor immunity in mid- to late-stage tumors. Given that the presence of B cells in tumor tissues may reflect the ongoing antitumor response in TDLNs, therapeutic induction and enhancement of these lymphocytes are expected to increase the overall effectiveness of immunotherapy. Therefore, B cells are promising targets, but the spatiotemporal balance of the subsets that exhibit opposite characteristics, that is, the protumor or antitumor state in TDLNs, should be understood, and strategies to separately control their functions should be developed to maximize the clinical outcome.
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18
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Blomberg OS, Spagnuolo L, Garner H, Voorwerk L, Isaeva OI, van Dyk E, Bakker N, Chalabi M, Klaver C, Duijst M, Kersten K, Brüggemann M, Pastoors D, Hau CS, Vrijland K, Raeven EAM, Kaldenbach D, Kos K, Afonina IS, Kaptein P, Hoes L, Theelen WSME, Baas P, Voest EE, Beyaert R, Thommen DS, Wessels LFA, de Visser KE, Kok M. IL-5-producing CD4 + T cells and eosinophils cooperate to enhance response to immune checkpoint blockade in breast cancer. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:106-123.e10. [PMID: 36525971 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has heralded a new era in cancer therapy. Research into the mechanisms underlying response to ICB has predominantly focused on T cells; however, effective immune responses require tightly regulated crosstalk between innate and adaptive immune cells. Here, we combine unbiased analysis of blood and tumors from metastatic breast cancer patients treated with ICB with mechanistic studies in mouse models of breast cancer. We observe an increase in systemic and intratumoral eosinophils in patients and mice responding to ICB treatment. Mechanistically, ICB increased IL-5 production by CD4+ T cells, stimulating elevated eosinophil production from the bone marrow, leading to systemic eosinophil expansion. Additional induction of IL-33 by ICB-cisplatin combination or recombinant IL-33 promotes intratumoral eosinophil infiltration and eosinophil-dependent CD8+ T cell activation to enhance ICB response. This work demonstrates the critical role of eosinophils in ICB response and provides proof-of-principle for eosinophil engagement to enhance ICB efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga S Blomberg
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Spagnuolo
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah Garner
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Leonie Voorwerk
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Olga I Isaeva
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ewald van Dyk
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Noor Bakker
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Myriam Chalabi
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chris Klaver
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maxime Duijst
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kelly Kersten
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke Brüggemann
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dorien Pastoors
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Cheei-Sing Hau
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kim Vrijland
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth A M Raeven
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Daphne Kaldenbach
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Kos
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Inna S Afonina
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paulien Kaptein
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Louisa Hoes
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Willemijn S M E Theelen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Baas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Emile E Voest
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniela S Thommen
- Division of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lodewyk F A Wessels
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karin E de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Marleen Kok
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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19
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Blomberg OS, Kos K, Spagnuolo L, Isaeva OI, Garner H, Wellenstein MD, Bakker N, Duits DE, Kersten K, Klarenbeek S, Hau CS, Kaldenbach D, Raeven EA, Vrijland K, Kok M, de Visser KE. Neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade triggers persistent and systemic T reg activation which blunts therapeutic efficacy against metastatic spread of breast tumors. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2201147. [PMID: 37089449 PMCID: PMC10114978 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2201147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical successes of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in advanced cancer patients have recently spurred the clinical implementation of ICB in the neoadjuvant and perioperative setting. However, how neoadjuvant ICB therapy affects the systemic immune landscape and metastatic spread remains to be established. Tumors promote both local and systemic expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are key orchestrators of tumor-induced immunosuppression, contributing to immune evasion, tumor progression and metastasis. Tregs express inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules and thus may be unintended targets for ICB therapy counteracting its efficacy. Using ICB-refractory models of spontaneous primary and metastatic breast cancer that recapitulate the poor ICB response of breast cancer patients, we observed that combined anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy inadvertently promotes proliferation and activation of Tregs in the tumor, tumor-draining lymph node and circulation. Also in breast cancer patients, Treg levels were elevated upon ICB. Depletion of Tregs during neoadjuvant ICB in tumor-bearing mice not only reshaped the intratumoral immune landscape into a state favorable for ICB response but also induced profound and persistent alterations in systemic immunity, characterized by elevated CD8+ T cells and NK cells and durable T cell activation that was maintained after treatment cessation. While depletion of Tregs in combination with neoadjuvant ICB did not inhibit primary tumor growth, it prolonged metastasis-related survival driven predominantly by CD8+ T cells. This study demonstrates that neoadjuvant ICB therapy of breast cancer can be empowered by simultaneous targeting of Tregs, extending metastasis-related survival, independent of a primary tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga S. Blomberg
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Kos
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Spagnuolo
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Olga I. Isaeva
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hannah Garner
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Max D. Wellenstein
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Noor Bakker
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Danique E.M. Duits
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly Kersten
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Klarenbeek
- Experimental Animal Pathology Facility, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cheei-Sing Hau
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne Kaldenbach
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth A.M. Raeven
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim Vrijland
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen Kok
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karin E. de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- CONTACT Karin E. de Visser Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam1066 CX, The Netherlands
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20
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Regulatory T Cells in Ovarian Carcinogenesis and Future Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225488. [PMID: 36428581 PMCID: PMC9688690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been shown to play a role in the development of solid tumors. A better understanding of the biology of Tregs, immune suppression by Tregs, and how cancer developed with the activity of Tregs has facilitated the development of strategies used to improve immune-based therapy. In ovarian cancer, Tregs have been shown to promote cancer development and resistance at different cancer stages. Understanding the various Treg-mediated immune escape mechanisms provides opportunities to establish specific, efficient, long-lasting anti-tumor immunity. Here, we review the evidence of Treg involvement in various stages of ovarian cancer. We further provide an overview of the current and prospective therapeutic approaches that arise from the modulation of Treg-related tumor immunity at those specific stages. Finally, we propose combination strategies of Treg-related therapies with other anti-tumor therapies to improve clinical efficacy and overcome tumor resistance in ovarian cancer.
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21
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Crump LS, Kines KT, Richer JK, Lyons TR. Breast cancers co-opt normal mechanisms of tolerance to promote immune evasion and metastasis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1475-C1495. [PMID: 36189970 PMCID: PMC9662806 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00189.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Normal developmental processes, such as those seen during embryonic development and postpartum mammary gland involution, can be reactivated by cancer cells to promote immune suppression, tumor growth, and metastatic spread. In mammalian embryos, paternal-derived antigens are at risk of being recognized as foreign by the maternal immune system. Suppression of the maternal immune response toward the fetus, which is mediated in part by the trophoblast, is critical to ensure embryonic survival and development. The postpartum mammary microenvironment also exhibits immunosuppressive mechanisms accompanying the massive cell death and tissue remodeling that occurs during mammary gland involution. These normal immunosuppressive mechanisms are paralleled during malignant transformation, where tumors can develop neoantigens that may be recognized as foreign by the immune system. To circumvent this, tumors can dedifferentiate and co-opt immune-suppressive mechanisms normally utilized during fetal tolerance and postpartum mammary involution. In this review, we discuss those similarities and how they can inform our understanding of cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey S Crump
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kelsey T Kines
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jennifer K Richer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Traci R Lyons
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado
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22
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Riet T, Chmielewski M. Regulatory CAR-T cells in autoimmune diseases: Progress and current challenges. Front Immunol 2022; 13:934343. [PMID: 36032080 PMCID: PMC9399761 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.934343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the field of oncology in recent years. This innovative shift in cancer treatment also provides the opportunity to improve therapies for many patients suffering from various autoimmune diseases. Recent studies have confirmed the therapeutic suppressive potential of regulatory T cells (Tregs) to modulate immune response in autoimmune diseases. However, the polyclonal character of regulatory T cells and their unknown TCR specificity impaired their therapeutic potency in clinical implementation. Genetical engineering of these immune modulating cells to express antigen-specific receptors and using them therapeutically is a logical step on the way to overcome present limitations of the Treg strategy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Encouraging preclinical studies successfully demonstrated immune modulating properties of CAR Tregs in various mouse models. Still, there are many concerns about targeted Treg therapies relating to CAR target selectivity, suppressive functions, phenotype stability and safety aspects. Here, we summarize recent developments in CAR design, Treg biology and future strategies and perspectives in CAR Treg immunotherapy aiming at clinical translation.
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23
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Ventre KS, Karakousi T, Lund AW. Lymph node metastasis fuels systemic disease. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:623-625. [PMID: 35717536 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The functional impact of lymph node (LN) metastasis on systemic tumor progression has been a controversial question for decades. In their recent paper published in Cell, Reticker-Flynn et al. demonstrate that sequential evasion of natural killer (NK) cell control and interferon (IFN)-dependent epigenetic adaptation enhances the probability of LN metastasis. Further, they show that, once formed, LN metastases expand systemic peripheral tolerance and promote distant organ metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Ventre
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Triantafyllia Karakousi
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amanda W Lund
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Kos K, Salvagno C, Wellenstein MD, Aslam MA, Meijer DA, Hau CS, Vrijland K, Kaldenbach D, Raeven EA, Schmittnaegel M, Ries CH, de Visser KE. Tumor-associated macrophages promote intratumoral conversion of conventional CD4 + T cells into regulatory T cells via PD-1 signalling. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2063225. [PMID: 35481289 PMCID: PMC9037432 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2063225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kos
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Camilla Salvagno
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Max D. Wellenstein
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Muhammad A. Aslam
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Denize A. Meijer
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cheei-Sing Hau
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim Vrijland
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne Kaldenbach
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth A.M. Raeven
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Schmittnaegel
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Carola H. Ries
- Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Karin E. de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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