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Yuan J, Zhang J, Zhao B, Liu F, Liu T, Duan Y, Chen Y, Chen X, Zou Y, Zhang L, Guo Y, Yang W, Yang Y, Wei J, Zhu X, Zhang Y. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the immune microenvironment in pediatric acute leukemia. Cancer Lett 2024; 596:217018. [PMID: 38844062 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217018] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Relapse and treatment resistance pose significant challenges in the management of pediatric B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The efficacy of immunotherapy in leukemia remains limited due to factors such as the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and lack of suitable immunotherapeutic targets. Thus, an in-depth characterization of the TME in pediatric leukemia is warranted to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to characterize the TME of pediatric B-ALL and AML, focusing specifically on bone-marrow-derived T cells. Moreover, we investigated the transcriptome changes during the initiation, remission, and relapse stages of pediatric AML. Our findings revealed that specific functional expression programs correlated with fluctuations in various T cell subsets, which may be associated with AML progression and relapse. Furthermore, our analysis of cellular communication networks led to the identification of VISTA, CD244, and TIM3 as potential immunotherapeutic targets in pediatric AML. Finally, we detected elevated proportions of γδ T cells and associated functional genes in samples from pediatric patients diagnosed with B-ALL and AML, which could inform the development of novel therapeutic approaches, potentially focusing on γδ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiapei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China.
| | - Jingliao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Beibei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Tianfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Yongjuan Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Yumei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaojuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Yao Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Wenyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Yang
- The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China; Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China; Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China; Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China.
| | - Xiaofan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China.
| | - Yingchi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College., Tianjin, China.
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2
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Hou Q, Wang P, Kong X, Chen J, Yao C, Luo X, Li Y, Jin Z, Wu X. Higher TIGIT+ γδ T CM cells may predict poor prognosis in younger adult patients with non-acute promyelocytic AML. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1321126. [PMID: 38711501 PMCID: PMC11070478 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1321126] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction γδ T cells recognize and exert cytotoxicity against tumor cells. They are also considered potential immune cells for immunotherapy. Our previous study revealed that the altered expression of immune checkpoint T-cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) on γδ T cells may result in immunosuppression and is possibly associated with a poor overall survival in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, whether γδ T-cell memory subsets are predominantly involved and whether they have a relationship with clinical outcomes in patients with AML under the age of 65 remain unclear. Methods In this study, we developed a multicolor flow cytometry-based assay to monitor the frequency and distribution of γδ T-cell subsets, including central memory γδ T cells (TCM γδ), effector memory γδ T cells (TEM γδ), and TEM expressing CD45RA (TEMRA γδ), in peripheral blood from 30 young (≤65 years old) patients with newly diagnosed non-acute promyelocytic leukemia (also known as M3) AML (AMLy-DN), 14 young patients with AML in complete remission (AMLy-CR), and 30 healthy individuals (HIs). Results Compared with HIs, patients with AMLy-DN exhibited a significantly higher differentiation of γδ T cells, which was characterized by decreased TCM γδ cells and increased TEMRA γδ cells. A generally higher TIGIT expression was observed in γδ T cells and relative subsets in patients with AMLy-DN, which was partially recovered in patients with AMLy-CR. Furthermore, 17 paired bone marrow from patients with AMLy-DN contained higher percentages of γδ and TIGIT+ γδ T cells and a lower percentage of TCM γδ T cells. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed the association of high percentage of TIGIT+ TCM γδ T cells with an increased risk of poor induction chemotherapy response. Conclusions In this study, we investigated the distribution of γδ T cells and their memory subsets in patients with non-M3 AML and suggested TIGIT+ TCM γδ T cells as potential predictive markers of induction chemotherapy response.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Receptors, Immunologic/metabolism
- Male
- Female
- Adult
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/metabolism
- Young Adult
- Aged
- Memory T Cells/immunology
- Memory T Cells/metabolism
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/immunology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/diagnosis
- Immunologic Memory
- Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute/immunology
- Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute/diagnosis
- Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute/mortality
- Immunophenotyping
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Hou
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Penglin Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueting Kong
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Junjie Chen
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Yao
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaodan Luo
- Department of Hematology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangqiu Li
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis and Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenyi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis and Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuli Wu
- Institute of Hematology, Medical Laboratory Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis and Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
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Yuan M, Wang W, Hawes I, Han J, Yao Z, Bertaina A. Advancements in γδT cell engineering: paving the way for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360237. [PMID: 38576617 PMCID: PMC10991697 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360237] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Comprising only 1-10% of the circulating T cell population, γδT cells play a pivotal role in cancer immunotherapy due to their unique amalgamation of innate and adaptive immune features. These cells can secrete cytokines, including interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and can directly eliminate tumor cells through mechanisms like Fas/FasL and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Unlike conventional αβT cells, γδT cells can target a wide variety of cancer cells independently of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) presentation and function as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Their ability of recognizing antigens in a non-MHC restricted manner makes them an ideal candidate for allogeneic immunotherapy. Additionally, γδT cells exhibit specific tissue tropism, and rapid responsiveness upon reaching cellular targets, indicating a high level of cellular precision and adaptability. Despite these capabilities, the therapeutic potential of γδT cells has been hindered by some limitations, including their restricted abundance, unsatisfactory expansion, limited persistence, and complex biology and plasticity. To address these issues, gene-engineering strategies like the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T therapy, T cell receptor (TCR) gene transfer, and the combination with γδT cell engagers are being explored. This review will outline the progress in various engineering strategies, discuss their implications and challenges that lie ahead, and the future directions for engineered γδT cells in both monotherapy and combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wenjun Wang
- *Correspondence: Wenjun Wang, ; Alice Bertaina,
| | | | | | | | - Alice Bertaina
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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Jullien M, Guillaume T, Le Bourgeois A, Peterlin P, Garnier A, Eveillard M, Le Bris Y, Bouzy S, Tessoulin B, Gastinne T, Dubruille V, Touzeau C, Mahé B, Blin N, Lok A, Vantyghem S, Sortais C, Antier C, Moreau P, Scotet E, Béné MC, Chevallier P. Phase I study of zoledronic acid combined with escalated doses of interleukine-2 for early in vivo generation of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells after haploidentical stem cell transplant with posttransplant cyclophosphamide. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:350-359. [PMID: 38165016 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27191] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The presence of donor Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplant (h-HSCT) has been associated with improved disease-free survival. These cells kill tumor cells in a non-MHC restricted manner, do not induce graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and can be generated by stimulation with zoledronic acid (ZA) in combination with interleukin-2 (IL-2). This monocentric phase I, open-label, dose-escalating study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03862833) aimed at evaluating the safety and possibility to generate Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells early after h-HSCT. It applied a standard 3 + 3 protocol to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of increasing low-doses of IL-2 (5 days [d] per week, 4 weeks) in combination with a single dose of ZA, starting both the first Monday after d + 15 posttransplant. Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell monitoring was performed by multiparameter flow cytometry on blood samples and compared with a control cohort of h-HSCT recipients. Twenty-six patients were included between April 2019 and September 2022, 16 of whom being ultimately treated and seven being controls who received h-HSCT only. At the three dose levels tested, 1, 0, and 1 dose-limiting toxicities were observed. MTD was not reached. A significantly higher number of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells was observed during IL-2 treatment compared with controls. In conclusion, early in vivo generation of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells is feasible after h-HSCT by using a combination of ZA and repeated IL-2 infusions. This study paves the way to a future phase 2 study, with the hope to document lesser posttransplant relapse with this particular adaptive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Jullien
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Thierry Guillaume
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | | | - Pierre Peterlin
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Alice Garnier
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Marion Eveillard
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
- Hematology Biology, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Yannick Le Bris
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
- Hematology Biology, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Simon Bouzy
- Hematology Biology, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Benoît Tessoulin
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Thomas Gastinne
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | | | - Cyrille Touzeau
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Béatrice Mahé
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Nicolas Blin
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Anne Lok
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Vantyghem
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Clara Sortais
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Chloé Antier
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Moreau
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Emmanuel Scotet
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Marie C Béné
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
- Hematology Biology, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Patrice Chevallier
- Hematology Department, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université d'Angers, CRCI2NA, Nantes, France
- LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
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5
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Rao A, Agrawal A, Borthakur G, Battula VL, Maiti A. Gamma delta T cells in acute myeloid leukemia: biology and emerging therapeutic strategies. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007981. [PMID: 38417915 PMCID: PMC10900322 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007981] [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: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells play an important role in disease control in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and have become an emerging area of therapeutic interest. These cells represent a minor population of T lymphocytes with intrinsic abilities to recognize antigens in a major histocompatibility complex-independent manner and functionally straddle the innate and adaptive immunity interface. AML shows high expression of phosphoantigens and UL-16 binding proteins that activate the Vδ2 and Vδ1 subtypes of γδ T cells, respectively, leading to γδ T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Insights from murine models and clinical data in humans show improved overall survival, leukemia-free survival, reduced risk of relapse, enhanced graft-versus-leukemia effect, and decreased graft-versus-host disease in patients with AML who have higher reconstitution of γδ T cells following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Clinical trials leveraging γδ T cell biology have used unmodified and modified allogeneic cells as well as bispecific engagers and monoclonal antibodies. In this review, we discuss γδ T cells' biology, roles in cancer and AML, and mechanisms of immune escape and antileukemia effect; we also discuss recent clinical advances related to γδ T cells in the field of AML therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adishwar Rao
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Akriti Agrawal
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gautam Borthakur
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Venkata Lokesh Battula
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Abhishek Maiti
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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6
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Wang CQ, Lim PY, Tan AHM. Gamma/delta T cells as cellular vehicles for anti-tumor immunity. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1282758. [PMID: 38274800 PMCID: PMC10808317 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1282758] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cellular immunotherapy as a new paradigm to treat cancers is exemplified by the FDA approval of six chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapies targeting hematological malignancies in recent years. Conventional αβ T cells applied in these therapies have proven efficacy but are confined almost exclusively to autologous use. When infused into patients with mismatched human leukocyte antigen, αβ T cells recognize tissues of such patients as foreign and elicit devastating graft-versus-host disease. Therefore, one way to overcome this challenge is to use naturally allogeneic immune cell types, such as γδ T cells. γδ T cells occupy the interface between innate and adaptive immunity and possess the capacity to detect a wide variety of ligands on transformed host cells. In this article, we review the fundamental biology of γδ T cells, including their subtypes, expression of ligands, contrasting roles in and association with cancer prognosis or survival, as well as discuss the gaps in knowledge pertaining to this cell type which we currently endeavor to elucidate. In addition, we propose how to harness the unique properties of γδ T cells for cellular immunotherapy based on lessons gleaned from past clinical trials and provide an update on ongoing trials involving these cells. Lastly, we elaborate strategies that have been tested or can be explored to improve the anti-tumor activity and durability of γδ T cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsia Qiuxia Wang
- Immune Cell Manufacturing, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pei Yu Lim
- Immune Cell Manufacturing, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andy Hee-Meng Tan
- Immune Cell Manufacturing, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Food, Chemical and Biotechnology Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), Singapore, Singapore
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7
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Katsnelson EN, Spengler A, Domenico J, Couts KL, Loh L, Gapin L, McCarter MD, Tobin RP. Dysfunctional states of unconventional T-cell subsets in cancer. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 115:36-46. [PMID: 37837379 PMCID: PMC10843843 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad129] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Unconventional T cells represent a promising therapeutic agent to overcome the current limitations of immunotherapies due to their universal T-cell receptors, ability to respond directly to cytokine stimulation, and capacity to recruit and modulate conventional immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Like conventional T cells, unconventional T cells can enter a dysfunctional state, and the functional differences associated with this state may provide insight into the discrepancies observed in their role in antitumor immunity in various cancers. The exhaustive signature of unconventional T cells differs from conventional αβ T cells, and understanding the differences in the mechanisms underlying exhaustive differentiation in these cell types may aid in the discovery of new treatments to improve sustained antitumor responses. Ongoing clinical trials investigating therapies that leverage unconventional T-cell populations have shown success in treating hematologic malignancies and reducing the immunosuppressive tumor environment. However, several hurdles remain to extend these promising results into solid tumors. Here we discuss the current knowledge on unconventional T-cell function/dysfunction and consider how the incorporation of therapies that modulate unconventional T-cell exhaustion may aid in overcoming the current limitations of immunotherapy. Additionally, we discuss how components of the tumor microenvironment alter the functions of unconventional T cells and how these changes can affect tumor infiltration by lymphocytes and alter conventional T-cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N. Katsnelson
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Andrea Spengler
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Joanne Domenico
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Kasey L. Couts
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Liyen Loh
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Laurent Gapin
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Martin D. McCarter
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Richard P. Tobin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
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8
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Hu Y, Hu Q, Li Y, Lu L, Xiang Z, Yin Z, Kabelitz D, Wu Y. γδ T cells: origin and fate, subsets, diseases and immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:434. [PMID: 37989744 PMCID: PMC10663641 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01653-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricacy of diseases, shaped by intrinsic processes like immune system exhaustion and hyperactivation, highlights the potential of immune renormalization as a promising strategy in disease treatment. In recent years, our primary focus has centered on γδ T cell-based immunotherapy, particularly pioneering the use of allogeneic Vδ2+ γδ T cells for treating late-stage solid tumors and tuberculosis patients. However, we recognize untapped potential and optimization opportunities to fully harness γδ T cell effector functions in immunotherapy. This review aims to thoroughly examine γδ T cell immunology and its role in diseases. Initially, we elucidate functional differences between γδ T cells and their αβ T cell counterparts. We also provide an overview of major milestones in γδ T cell research since their discovery in 1984. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate biological processes governing their origin, development, fate decisions, and T cell receptor (TCR) rearrangement within the thymus. By examining the mechanisms underlying the anti-tumor functions of distinct γδ T cell subtypes based on γδTCR structure or cytokine release, we emphasize the importance of accurate subtyping in understanding γδ T cell function. We also explore the microenvironment-dependent functions of γδ T cell subsets, particularly in infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, hematological malignancies, and solid tumors. Finally, we propose future strategies for utilizing allogeneic γδ T cells in tumor immunotherapy. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to provide readers with a holistic understanding of the molecular fundamentals and translational research frontiers of γδ T cells, ultimately contributing to further advancements in harnessing the therapeutic potential of γδ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Qinglin Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Yongsheng Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Zheng Xiang
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China.
| | - Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Yangzhe Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China.
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Giannotta C, Autino F, Massaia M. Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell immunotherapy in blood cancers: ready for prime time? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167443. [PMID: 37143664 PMCID: PMC10153673 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has emerged as a promising target for therapeutic interventions in cancer. Cancer cells are highly dependent on the TME to growth and evade the immune system. Three major cell subpopulations are facing each other in the TME: cancer cells, immune suppressor cells, and immune effector cells. These interactions are influenced by the tumor stroma which is composed of extracellular matrix, bystander cells, cytokines, and soluble factors. The TME can be very different depending on the tissue where cancer arises as in solid tumors vs blood cancers. Several studies have shown correlations between the clinical outcome and specific patterns of TME immune cell infiltration. In the recent years, a growing body of evidence suggests that unconventional T cells like natural killer T (NKT) cells, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, and γδ T cells are key players in the protumor or antitumor TME commitment in solid tumors and blood cancers. In this review, we will focus on γδ T cells, especially Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, to discuss their peculiarities, pros, and cons as potential targets of therapeutic interventions in blood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannotta
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Autino
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Massimo Massaia
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Massaia,
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