1
|
Vidana Gamage HE, Shahoei SH, Wang Y, Jacquin E, Weisser E, Bautista RO, Henn MA, Schane CP, Nelczyk AT, Ma L, Das Gupta A, Bendre SV, Nguyen T, Tiwari S, Tjoanda E, Krawczynska N, He S, Albright ST, Farmer R, Smith AJ, Fink EC, Chen H, Sverdlov M, Gann PH, Boidot R, Vegran F, Fanning SW, Hergenrother PJ, Apetoh L, Nelson ER. NR0B2 re-educates myeloid immune cells to reduce regulatory T cell expansion and progression of breast and other solid tumors. Cancer Lett 2024; 597:217042. [PMID: 38908543 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217042] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Although survival from breast cancer has dramatically increased, many will develop recurrent, metastatic disease. Unfortunately, survival for this stage of disease remains very low. Activating the immune system has incredible promise since it has the potential to be curative. However, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) which works through T cells has been largely disappointing for metastatic breast cancer. One reason for this is a suppressive myeloid immune compartment that is unaffected by ICB. Cholesterol metabolism and proteins involved in cholesterol homeostasis play important regulatory roles in myeloid cells. Here, we demonstrate that NR0B2, a nuclear receptor involved in negative feedback of cholesterol metabolism, works in several myeloid cell types to impair subsequent expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs); Tregs being a subset known to be highly immune suppressive and associated with poor therapeutic response. Within myeloid cells, NR0B2 serves to decrease many aspects of the inflammasome, ultimately resulting in decreased IL1β; IL1β driving Treg expansion. Importantly, mice lacking NR0B2 exhibit accelerated tumor growth. Thus, NR0B2 represents an important node in myeloid cells dictating ensuing Treg expansion and tumor growth, thereby representing a novel therapeutic target to re-educate these cells, having impact across different solid tumor types. Indeed, a paper co-published in this issue demonstrates the therapeutic utility of targeting NR0B2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hashni Epa Vidana Gamage
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sayyed Hamed Shahoei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Erin Weisser
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rafael O Bautista
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Madeline A Henn
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Claire P Schane
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Adam T Nelczyk
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Liqian Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Anasuya Das Gupta
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Shruti V Bendre
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Tiffany Nguyen
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Srishti Tiwari
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Evelyn Tjoanda
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalia Krawczynska
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sisi He
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel T Albright
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rachel Farmer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Amanda J Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Emma C Fink
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Food Science & Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Maria Sverdlov
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Peter H Gann
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Romain Boidot
- Unit of Molecular Biology, Department of Biology and Pathology of Tumors, Georges-Francois Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France; ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302, Dijon, France
| | | | - Sean W Fanning
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | - Paul J Hergenrother
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Erik R Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vidana Gamage HE, Albright ST, Smith AJ, Farmer R, Shahoei SH, Wang Y, Fink EC, Jacquin E, Weisser E, Bautista RO, Henn MA, Schane CP, Nelczyk AT, Ma L, Das Gupta A, Bendre SV, Nguyen T, Tiwari S, Krawczynska N, He S, Tjoanda E, Chen H, Sverdlov M, Gann PH, Boidot R, Vegran F, Fanning SW, Apetoh L, Hergenrother PJ, Nelson ER. Development of NR0B2 as a therapeutic target for the re-education of tumor associated myeloid cells. Cancer Lett 2024; 597:217086. [PMID: 38944231 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has had limited utility in several solid tumors such as breast cancer, a major cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Therefore, there is considerable interest in alternate strategies to promote an anti-cancer immune response. A paper co-published in this issue describes how NR0B2, a protein involved in cholesterol homeostasis, functions within myeloid immune cells to modulate the inflammasome and reduce the expansion of immune-suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg). Here, we develop NR0B2 as a potential therapeutic target. NR0B2 in tumors is associated with improved survival for several cancer types including breast. Importantly, NR0B2 expression is also prognostic of ICB success. Within breast tumors, NR0B2 expression is inversely associated with FOXP3, a marker of Tregs. While a described agonist (DSHN) had some efficacy, it required high doses and long treatment times. Therefore, we designed and screened several derivatives. A methyl ester derivative (DSHN-OMe) emerged as superior in terms of (1) cellular uptake, (2) ability to regulate expected expression of genes, (3) suppression of Treg expansion using in vitro co-culture systems, and (4) efficacy against the growth of primary and metastatic tumors. This work identifies NR0B2 as a target to re-educate myeloid immune cells and a novel ligand with significant anti-tumor efficacy in preclinical models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hashni Epa Vidana Gamage
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel T Albright
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Amanda J Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rachel Farmer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sayyed Hamed Shahoei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Emma C Fink
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Erin Weisser
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rafael O Bautista
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Madeline A Henn
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Claire P Schane
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Adam T Nelczyk
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Liqian Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Anasuya Das Gupta
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Shruti V Bendre
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Tiffany Nguyen
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Srishti Tiwari
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalia Krawczynska
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sisi He
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Evelyn Tjoanda
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Food Science & Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Maria Sverdlov
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Peter H Gann
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Romain Boidot
- Unit of Molecular Biology, Department of Biology and Pathology of Tumors, Georges-Francois Leclerc Cancer Center, Dijon, France; ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302, Dijon, France
| | | | - Sean W Fanning
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Paul J Hergenrother
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Erik R Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu J, Qin J, Liang L, Zhang X, Gao J, Hao Y, Zhao P. Novel insights into the regulation of exosomal PD-L1 in cancer: From generation to clinical application. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 979:176831. [PMID: 39047964 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) interacts with programmed cell death 1 (PD-1), leading to T cell exhaustion and promoting tumor cell survival, ultimately mediating immunosuppression. While FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction have shown success in cancer treatment, some patients experience limited and short-lived therapeutic outcomes. Recent studies have identified PD-L1 expression not only on tumor cell surfaces but also on exosomes, with secretion pathways including both conventional and unconventional endocytosis routes, presenting a unique therapeutic opportunity. Emerging evidence suggests that exosomal PD-L1 contributes to systemic immunosuppression, potentially counteracting the effects of anti-PD-1 checkpoint therapies. However, the significance of exosomal PD-L1 in clinical cancer patients unresponsive to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy, as well as the factors regulating its generation, remain unclear. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying PD-L1 expression on exosomes and its regulation in cancer are yet to be fully elucidated. This review primarily focuses on the mechanisms modulating exosomal PD-L1 generation in cancer, while also outlining its involvement in immunosuppression, tumor proliferation, and response to cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, we explore the potential of exosomal PD-L1 as a cancer biomarker and therapeutic target, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of this emerging field and its implications for cancer treatment and diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China; Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Hartmannstraße 14, 91052, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Junxia Qin
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| | - Lili Liang
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| | - Xinzhong Zhang
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| | - Jie Gao
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| | - Youwei Hao
- Department of Cardiology, Taiyuan People's Hospital, Taiyuan, 030000, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- The Dermatology Department of Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Five Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pan S, Wan M, Jin H, Ning R, Zhang J, Han X. LCP1 correlates with immune infiltration: a prognostic marker for triple-negative breast cancer. BMC Immunol 2024; 25:42. [PMID: 38977952 PMCID: PMC11229261 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-024-00635-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is known for its aggressiveness and treatment challenges due to the absence of ER, PR, and HER2 receptors. Our work emphasizes the prognostic value of LCP1 (Lymphocyte cytosolic protein 1), which plays a crucial role in cell processes and immune cell activity, to predict outcomes and guide treatments in TNBC. METHODS We explored LCP1 as a potential biomarker in TNBC and investigated the mRNA and protein expression levels of LCP1. We investigated different databases, including GTEX, TCGA, GEO, cBioPortal and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. Immunohistochemistry on TNBC and benign tumor samples was performed to examine LCP1's relationship with patient clinical characteristics and macrophage markers. We also assessed survival rates, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity related to LCP1 using various bioinformatics tools. RESULTS The results indicated that LCP1 expression was higher in TNBC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. However, high expression of LCP1 was significantly associated with favorable survival outcomes in patients with TNBC. Enrichment analysis revealed that genes co-expressed with LCP1 were significantly enriched in various immune processes. LCP1 showed a positive correlation with the infiltration of resting dendritic cells, M1 macrophages, and memory CD4 T cells, and a negative correlation with M2 macrophages. Further analysis suggested a link between high levels of LCP1 and increased survival outcomes in cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. CONCLUSION LCP1 may serve as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for TNBC, which was closely associated with immune cell infiltration, particularly M1 and M2 macrophages. Our findings may provide valuable insights into immunotherapeutic strategies for TNBC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuaikang Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- School of Medical Oncology, Wan Nan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Mengting Wan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hongwei Jin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ran Ning
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Chaohu, 238000, Anhui, China
| | - Jinguo Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Xinghua Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang L, Liu H, Feng Y, Liu X, Wang Y, Liu Y, Li H, Zhang Y. Decoding the immune landscape: a comprehensive analysis of immune-associated biomarkers in cervical carcinoma and their implications for immunotherapy strategies. Front Genet 2024; 15:1340569. [PMID: 38933923 PMCID: PMC11199791 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1340569] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Cervical cancer, a prevalent gynecological malignant tumor, poses a significant threat to women's health and lives. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has emerged as a promising avenue for treating cervical cancer. For patients with persistent or recurrent metastatic cervical cancer, If the sequence of dead receptor ligand-1 (PD-L1) is positive, ICI show significant clinical efficacy. PD-L1 expression serves as a valuable biomarker for assessing ICI therapeutic efficacy. However, the complex tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), encompassing immune cell composition and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) status, also exerts a profound influence on tumor immunity and prognosis. Given the remarkable strides made by ICI treatments in improving the survival rates of cervical cancer patients, it becomes essential to identify a comprehensive biomarker that integrates various TIME aspects to enhance the effectiveness of ICI treatment. Therefore, the quest for biomarkers linked to multiple facets of TIME in cervical cancer is a vital pursuit. Methods In this study, we have developed an Immune-Associated Gene Prognostic Index (IRGPI) with remarkable prognostic value specifically for cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC). The Cancer Genome Atlas CESC dataset (n = 305) was meticulously analyzed to pinpoint key immune-related genes via weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential gene expression assays. Subsequently, we employed Cox regression analysis to construct the IRGPI. Furthermore, the composition of immune cells and TIL status were examined using CIBERSORT and TIDE. Tumor expression of Epigen, LCN10, and P73 were determined with immunohistochemistry. Results The resulting IRGPI, composed of EPGN, LCN10, and TP73 genes, displayed a strong negative correlation with patient survival. The discovery was validated with a patient cohort from our hospital. The IRGPI not only predicts the composition of immune cell subtypes such as Macrophages M1, NK cells, Mast cells, Plasma cells, Neutrophils, Dendritic cells, T cells CD8, and T cells CD4 within CESC, but also indicates TIL exclusion, dysfunction, and PD-1 and PD-L1 expression. Therefore, the IRGPI emerges as a promising biomarker not only for prognostic assessment but also for characterizing multiple immune features in CESC. Additionally, our results underscored the significant associations between the IRGPI and immune cell composition, TIL exclusion, and dysfunction, along with PD-1 and PD-L1 expression in the TIME. Conclusion Consequently, the IRGPI stands out as a biomarker intimately connected to both the survival and TIME status of CESC patients, offering potential insights into immunotherapy strategies for CESC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Wang
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Huatian Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueting Liu
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Hao Li
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yunyan Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hu X. The role of the BTLA-HVEM complex in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Breast Cancer 2024; 31:358-370. [PMID: 38483699 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-024-01557-7] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is widely recognized as a prevalent contributor to cancer mortality and ranks as the second most prevalent form of cancer among women across the globe. Hence, the development of innovative therapeutic strategies is imperative to effectively manage BC. The B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA)-Herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM) complex has garnered significant scientific interest as a crucial regulator in various immune contexts. The interaction between BTLA-HVEM ligand on the surface of T cells results in reduced cellular activation, cytokine synthesis, and proliferation. The BTLA-HVEM complex has been investigated in various cancers, yet its specific mechanisms in BC remain indeterminate. In this study, we aim to examine the function of BTLA-HVEM and provide a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence in relation to BC. The obstruction or augmentation of these pathways may potentially enhance the efficacy of BC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Hu
- College of Health Industry, Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun, 130000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li Z, Zhang Q, Li Z, Ren L, Pan D, Gong Q, Gu Z, Cai H, Luo K. Branched glycopolymer prodrug-derived nanoassembly combined with a STING agonist activates an immuno-supportive status to boost anti-PD-L1 antibody therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:2194-2209. [PMID: 38799622 PMCID: PMC11121173 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the great potential of anti-PD-L1 antibodies for immunotherapy, their low response rate due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment has hampered their application. To address this issue, we constructed a cell membrane-coated nanosystem (mB4S) to reverse an immunosuppressive microenvironment to an immuno-supportive one for strengthening the anti-tumor effect. In this system, Epirubicin (EPI) as an immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducer was coupled to a branched glycopolymer via hydrazone bonds and diABZI as a stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist was encapsulated into mB4S. After internalization of mB4S, EPI was acidic-responsively released to induce ICD, which was characterized by an increased level of calreticulin (CRT) exposure and enhanced ATP secretion. Meanwhile, diABZI effectively activated the STING pathway. Treatment with mB4S in combination with an anti-PD-L1 antibody elicited potent immune responses by increasing the ratio of matured dendritic cells (DCs) and CD8+ T cells, promoting cytokines secretion, up-regulating M1-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and down-regulating immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Therefore, this nanosystem for co-delivery of an ICD inducer and a STING agonist achieved promotion of DCs maturation and CD8+ T cells infiltration, creating an immuno-supportive microenvironment, thus potentiating the therapy effect of the anti-PD-L1 antibody in both 4T1 breast and CT26 colon tumor mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhilin Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Qianfeng Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhiqian Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Long Ren
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Dayi Pan
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hao Cai
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Clinical Research Center for Breast, Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen W, Kang Y, Sheng W, Huang Q, Cheng J, Pei S, Meng Y. A new 4-gene-based prognostic model accurately predicts breast cancer prognosis and immunotherapy response by integrating WGCNA and bioinformatics analysis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1331841. [PMID: 38370403 PMCID: PMC10869553 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1331841] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BRCA) is a common malignancy in women, and its resistance to immunotherapy is a major challenge. Abnormal expression of genes is important in the occurrence and development of BRCA and may also affect the prognosis of patients. Although many BRCA prognosis model scores have been developed, they are only applicable to a limited number of disease subtypes. Our goal is to develop a new prognostic score that is more accurate and applicable to a wider range of BRCA patients. Methods BRCA patient data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database was used to identify breast cancer-related genes (BRGs). Differential expression analysis of BRGs was performed using the 'limma' package in R. Prognostic BRGs were identified using co-expression and univariate Cox analysis. A predictive model of four BRGs was established using Cox regression and the LASSO algorithm. Model performance was evaluated using K-M survival and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The predictive ability of the signature in immune microenvironment and immunotherapy was investigated. In vitro experiments validated POLQ function. Results Our study identified a four-BRG prognostic signature that outperformed conventional clinicopathological characteristics in predicting survival outcomes in BRCA patients. The signature effectively stratified BRCA patients into high- and low-risk groups and showed potential in predicting the response to immunotherapy. Notably, significant differences were observed in immune cell abundance between the two groups. In vitro experiments demonstrated that POLQ knockdown significantly reduced the viability, proliferation, and invasion capacity of MDA-MB-231 or HCC1806 cells. Conclusion Our 4-BRG signature has the potential as an independent biomarker for predicting prognosis and treatment response in BRCA patients, complementing existing clinicopathological characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Chen
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yakun Kang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenyi Sheng
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qiyan Huang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiale Cheng
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shengbin Pei
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - You Meng
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kina Kilicaslan U, Aru B, Aydin Aksu S, Vardar Aker F, Yanikkaya Demirel G, Gurleyik MG. Relationship between immune checkpoint proteins and neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in breast cancer. Surg Oncol 2024; 52:102037. [PMID: 38290327 DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2024.102037] [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: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Following major developments in cancer immunotherapy, treatments targeting immune checkpoint proteins (ICP) gained interest in breast cancer, though studies mostly focus on patients with metastatic disease as well as patients nonresponsive to the conventional treatments. Herein, we aimed to investigate the levels of ICP in tumor stroma and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, and tumor tissue prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy administration to evaluate the relationship between ICP levels, clinicopathological parameters, and NAC response. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was conducted with 51 patients where PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, TIM-3, CD24 and CD44 levels were investigated in CD45+ cells while CD326, CD24, CD44 and PD-L1 protein expression levels were investigated in CD45- population. In addition, CD44 and CD24 levels were evaluated in the tumor stroma. TIL levels were investigated according to the TILS Working Group. Treatment responses after NAC were evaluated according to the MD Anderson RCB score. RESULTS Our results revealed positive correlation between CTLA-4 and CD44 expression in cases with high TIL levels as well as TIL levels and CTLA-4 expression in cases with partial response. Similarly, positive correlation was detected between TIM3 and PD-L1 levels in cases with good response. In addition, a negative correlation between TILs after NAC and PD-1/PD-L1 expression in lymphocytes in cases with partial complete response. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides preliminary data about the correlation between ICP and clinicopathological status and NAC response in breast cancer, in addition to underlining the requirement for further research to determine their potential as therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umut Kina Kilicaslan
- Department of General Surgery, Istanbul Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Basak Aru
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sibel Aydin Aksu
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Fugen Vardar Aker
- Department of Pathology, Istanbul Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Meryem Gunay Gurleyik
- Department of General Surgery, Istanbul Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lin L, Li H, Wang X, Wang Z, Su G, Zhou J, Sun S, Ma X, Chen Y, You C, Gu Y. Components of the tumor immune microenvironment based on m-IHC correlate with prognosis and subtype of triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Med 2023; 12:21639-21650. [PMID: 38059408 PMCID: PMC10757132 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6718] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The spatial distribution and interactions of cells in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) might be related to the different responses of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) to immunomodulators. The potential of multiplex IHC (m-IHC) in evaluating the TIME has been reported, but the efficacy is insufficient. We aimed to research whether m-IHC results could be used to reflect the TIME, and thus to predict prognosis and complement the TNBC subtyping system. METHODS The clinical, imaging, and prognosis data for 86 TNBC patients were retrospectively reviewed. CD3, CD4, CD8, Foxp3, PD-L1, and Pan-CK markers were stained by m-IHC. Particular cell spatial distributions and interactions in the TIME were evaluated with the HALO multispectral analysis platform. Then, we calculated the prognostic value of components of the TIME and their correlations with TNBC transcriptomic subtypes and MRI radiomic features reflecting TNBC subtypes. RESULTS The components of the TIME score were established by m-IHC and demonstrated positive prognostic value for TNBC (p = 0.0047, 0.039, <0.0001 for DMFS, RFS, and OS). The score was calculated from several indicators, including Treg% in the tumor core (TC) or stromal area (SA), PD-L1+ cell% in the SA, CD3 + cell% in the TC, and PD-L1+ /CD8+ cells in the invasive margin and SA. According to the TNBC subtyping system, a few TIME indicators were significantly different in different subtypes and significantly correlated with MRI radiomic features reflecting TNBC subtypes. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that the m-IHC-based quantitative score and indicators related to the spatial distribution and interactions of cells in the TIME can aid in the accurate diagnosis of TNBC in terms of prognosis and classification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luyi Lin
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haiming Li
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zezhou Wang
- Department of Cancer PreventionFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital Oncological Specialist AllianceShanghaiChina
| | - Guanhua Su
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
| | - Jiayin Zhou
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shiyun Sun
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaowen Ma
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yan Chen
- Division of Cancer and Stem CellSchool of Medicine at University of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Chao You
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yajia Gu
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Nirgude S, Desai S, Khanchandani V, Nagarajan V, Thumsi J, Choudhary B. Integration of exome-seq and mRNA-seq using DawnRank, identified genes involved in innate immunity as drivers of breast cancer in the Indian cohort. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16033. [PMID: 37810779 PMCID: PMC10552747 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16033] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic heterogeneity influences the prognosis and therapy of breast cancer. The cause of disease progression varies and can be addressed individually. To identify the mutations and their impact on disease progression at an individual level, we sequenced exome and transcriptome from matched normal-tumor samples. We utilised DawnRank to prioritise driver genes and identify specific mutations in Indian patients. Mutations in the C3 and HLA genes were identified as drivers of disease progression, indicating the involvement of the innate immune system. We performed immune profiling on 16 matched normal/tumor samples using CIBERSORTx. We identified CD8+ve T cells, M2 macrophages, and neutrophils to be enriched in luminal A and T cells CD4+naïve, natural killer (NK) cells activated, T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, dendritic cells activated, and neutrophils in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtypes. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed activation of T cell-mediated response in ER positive samples and Interleukin and Interferons in ER negative samples. WGCNA analysis also identified unique pathways for each individual, suggesting that rare mutations/expression signatures can be used to design personalised treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Snehal Nirgude
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Human Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Sagar Desai
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Vartika Khanchandani
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | | | - Bibha Choudhary
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ducarouge B, Redavid AR, Victoor C, Chira R, Fonseca A, Hervieu M, Bergé R, Lengrand J, Vieugué P, Neves D, Goddard I, Richaud M, Laval PA, Rama N, Goldschneider D, Paradisi A, Gourdin N, Chabaud S, Treilleux I, Gadot N, Ray-Coquard I, Depil S, Decaudin D, Némati F, Marangoni E, Mery-Lamarche E, Génestie C, Tabone-Eglinger S, Devouassoux-Shisheboran M, Moore KJ, Gibert B, Mehlen P, Bernet A. Netrin-1 blockade inhibits tumor associated Myeloid-derived suppressor cells, cancer stemness and alleviates resistance to chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:2201-2212. [PMID: 37633969 PMCID: PMC10589209 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01209-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance and cancer relapse represent significant therapeutic challenges after chemotherapy or immunotherapy, and a major limiting factor for long-term cancer survival. Netrin-1 was initially identified as a neuronal navigation cue but has more recently emerged as an interesting target for cancer therapy, which is currently clinically investigated. We show here that netrin-1 is an independent prognostic marker for clinical progression of breast and ovary cancers. Cancer stem cells (CSCs)/Tumor initiating cells (TICs) are hypothesized to be involved in clinical progression, tumor relapse and resistance. We found a significant correlation between netrin-1 expression and cancer stem cell (CSC) markers levels. We also show in different mice models of resistance to chemotherapies that netrin-1 interference using a therapeutic netrin-1 blocking antibody alleviates resistance to chemotherapy and triggers an efficient delay in tumor relapse and this effect is associated with CSCs loss. We also demonstrate that netrin-1 interference limits tumor resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitor and provide evidence linking this enhanced anti-tumor efficacy to a decreased recruitment of a subtype of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) called polymorphonuclear (PMN)-MDSCs. We have functionally demonstrated that these immune cells promote CSCs features and, consequently, resistance to anti-cancer treatments. Together, these data support the view of both a direct and indirect contribution of netrin-1 to cancer stemness and we propose that this may lead to therapeutic opportunities by combining conventional chemotherapies and immunotherapies with netrin-1 interfering drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ducarouge
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Anna-Rita Redavid
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Camille Victoor
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Ruxanda Chira
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | | | - Maëva Hervieu
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Roméo Bergé
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Justine Lengrand
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Pauline Vieugué
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - David Neves
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Isabelle Goddard
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Mathieu Richaud
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre-Alexandre Laval
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Rama
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | | | - Andrea Paradisi
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Gourdin
- Targeting of the Tumor and its Immune Environnement, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | | | | | - Nicolas Gadot
- Pathology Department, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | | | | | - Didier Decaudin
- Laboratory of Preclinical Investigations, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, Université Paris-Sciences-et-Lettres, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Fariba Némati
- Laboratory of Preclinical Investigations, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, Université Paris-Sciences-et-Lettres, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Elisabetta Marangoni
- Laboratory of Preclinical Investigations, Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, Université Paris-Sciences-et-Lettres, 75005, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Kathryn J Moore
- Department of Medicine, Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin Gibert
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France.
| | - Patrick Mehlen
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France.
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France.
| | - Agnes Bernet
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory- Equipe labellisée 'La Ligue', Labex DEVweCAN, Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, Centre de Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France.
- Netris Pharma, Centre Léon Bérard, 69008, Lyon, France.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang X, Shen L, Zhu Y, Zhai C, Zeng H, Liu X, Tao J. Crosstalk of RNA methylation writers defines tumor microenvironment and alisertib resistance in breast cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1166939. [PMID: 37818090 PMCID: PMC10561238 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1166939] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The five major RNA methylation modifications (m6A, m1A, m6Am, m5C, and m7G) exert biological roles in tumorigenicity and immune response, mediated mainly by "writer" enzymes. Here, the prognostic values of the "writer" enzymes and the TCP1 role in drug resistance in breast cancer (BC) were explored for further therapeutic strategies. Methods We comprehensively characterized clinical, molecular, and genetic features of subtypes by consensus clustering. RNA methylation modification "Writers" and related genes_risk (RMW_risk) model for BC was constructed via a machine learning approach. Moreover, we performed a systematical analysis for characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), alisertib sensitivity, and immunotherapy response. A series of experiments in vitro were carried out to assess the association of TCP1 with drug resistance. Results One "writer" (RBM15B) and two related genes (TCP1 and ANKRD36) were identified for prognostic model construction, validated by GSE1456, GSE7390, and GSE20685 cohorts and our follow-up data. Based on the patterns of the genes related to prognosis, patients were classified into RMW_risk-high and RMW_risk-low subtypes. Lower RMW_Score was associated with better overall survival and the infiltration of immune cells such as memory B cells. Further analysis revealed that RMW_Score presented potential values in predicting drug sensitivity and response for chemo- and immunotherapy. In addition, TCP1 was confirmed to promote BC alisertib-resistant cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Conclusion RMW_Score could function as a robust biomarker for predicting BC patient survival and therapeutic benefits. This research revealed a potential TCP1 role regarding alisertib resistance in BC, providing new sights into more effective therapeutic plans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Breast Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Shen
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanhui Zhu
- Breast Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changyuan Zhai
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hanling Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoan Liu
- Breast Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Tao
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen Y, Wu W, Jin C, Cui J, Diao Y, Wang R, Xu R, Yao Z, Li X. Integrating Single-Cell RNA-Seq and Bulk RNA-Seq Data to Explore the Key Role of Fatty Acid Metabolism in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13209. [PMID: 37686016 PMCID: PMC10487665 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713209] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immune escape is associated with the metabolic reprogramming of the various infiltrating cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), and combining metabolic targets with immunotherapy shows great promise for improving clinical outcomes. Among all metabolic processes, lipid metabolism, especially fatty acid metabolism (FAM), plays a major role in cancer cell survival, migration, and proliferation. However, the mechanisms and functions of FAM in the tumor immune microenvironment remain poorly understood. We screened 309 fatty acid metabolism-related genes (FMGs) for differential expression, identifying 121 differentially expressed genes. Univariate Cox regression models in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were then utilized to identify the 15 FMGs associated with overall survival. We systematically evaluated the correlation between FMGs' modification patterns and the TME, prognosis, and immunotherapy. The FMGsScore was constructed to quantify the FMG modification patterns using principal component analysis. Three clusters based on FMGs were demonstrated in breast cancer, with three patterns of distinct immune cell infiltration and biological behavior. An FMGsScore signature was constructed to reveal that patients with a low FMGsScore had higher immune checkpoint expression, higher immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) scores, increased immune microenvironment infiltration, better survival advantage, and were more sensitive to immunotherapy than those with a high FMGsScore. Finally, the expression and function of the signature key gene NDUFAB1 were examined by in vitro experiments. This study significantly demonstrates the substantial impact of FMGs on the immune microenvironment of breast cancer, and that FMGsScores can be used to guide the prediction of immunotherapy efficacy in breast cancer patients. In vitro experiments, knockdown of the NDUFAB1 gene resulted in reduced proliferation and migration of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gamage HEV, Shahoei SH, Albright ST, Wang Y, Smith AJ, Farmer R, Fink EC, Jacquin E, Weisser E, Bautista RO, Henn MA, Schane CP, Nelczyk AT, Ma L, Gupta AD, Bendre SV, Nguyen T, Tiwari S, Krawczynska N, He S, Tjoanda E, Chen H, Sverdlov M, Gann PH, Boidot R, Vegran F, Fanning SW, Apetoh L, Hergenrother PJ, Nelson ER. Re-education of myeloid immune cells to reduce regulatory T cell expansion and impede breast cancer progression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.14.553229. [PMID: 37645737 PMCID: PMC10462080 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.14.553229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized cancer therapy but has had limited utility in several solid tumors such as breast cancer, a major cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Therefore, there is considerable interest in alternate strategies to promote an anti-cancer immune response. We demonstrate that NR0B2, a protein involved in cholesterol homeostasis, functions within myeloid immune cells to modulate the NLRP3 inflammasome and reduce the expansion of immune-suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg). Loss of NR0B2 increased mammary tumor growth and metastasis. Small molecule agonists, including one developed here, reduced Treg expansion, reduced metastatic growth and improved the efficacy of ICB. This work identifies NR0B2 as a target to re-educate myeloid immune cells providing proof-of-principle that this cholesterol-homeostasis axis may have utility in enhancing ICB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hashni Epa Vidana Gamage
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sayyed Hamed Shahoei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel T. Albright
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Amanda J. Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rachel Farmer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Emma C. Fink
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Erin Weisser
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Rafael O. Bautista
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Madeline A. Henn
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Claire P. Schane
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Adam T. Nelczyk
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Liqian Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Anasuya Das Gupta
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Shruti V. Bendre
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Tiffany Nguyen
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Srishti Tiwari
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalia Krawczynska
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Sisi He
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Evelyn Tjoanda
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Food Science & Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Maria Sverdlov
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Peter H. Gann
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Romain Boidot
- Unit of Molecular Biology, Department of Biology and Pathology of Tumors, Georges-Francois Leclerc cancer Center, Dijon, France, and ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302, Dijon, France
| | | | - Sean W. Fanning
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Paul J. Hergenrother
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Erik R. Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology- Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yurt F, Özel D, Tunçel A, Gokbayrak O, Aktas S. Synthesis and Optimization of the Docetaxel-Loaded and Durvalumab-Targeted Human Serum Albumin Nanoparticles, In Vitro Characterization on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:26287-26300. [PMID: 37521641 PMCID: PMC10372957 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) tends to behave more aggressively compared to other breast cancer subtypes due to the lack of receptors and its limited targeting therapy. In recent years, nanotechnology advancement has led to the development of various nanoparticle platforms for the targeted treatment of cancers. Especially, HSA-NPs have specific advantages such as biocompatibility, adjustable size during production, and relatively easy synthesis. In this study, HSA-NPs were encapsulated with docetaxel (DTX) and functionalized with polyethylene glycol (PEG), also becoming a targeting nanoplatform modified with durvalumab (DVL), and the whole nanostructure was well characterized. Subsequently, drug release studies and various in vitro cell culture studies such as determining the cytotoxicity and apoptotic levels of the nanoplatforms and PD-L1 using ELISA test were conducted on MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7 cells. According to the results, HSA-DTX@PEG-DVL NPs showed better cytotoxicity compared to DTX in all the three cell lines. In addition, it was observed that the HSA-DTX@PEG-DVL NPs did not lead the cells to late apoptosis but were effective in the early apoptotic stage. Moreover, the ELISA data showed a significantly induced PD-L1 expression due to the presence of DVL in the nanostructure, which indicates that DVL antibodies successfully bind to the HSA-DTX@PEG-DVL nanostructure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Yurt
- Department
of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Science, Ege University, Bornova, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Derya Özel
- Department
of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Science, Ege University, Bornova, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ayça Tunçel
- Department
of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Science, Ege University, Bornova, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ozde Gokbayrak
- Department
of Basic Oncology, Institute of Oncology, DokuzEylül University, 35340 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Safiye Aktas
- Department
of Basic Oncology, Institute of Oncology, DokuzEylül University, 35340 Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Melo V, Nelemans LC, Vlaming M, Lourens HJ, Wiersma VR, Bilemjian V, Huls G, de Bruyn M, Bremer E. EGFR-selective activation of CD27 co-stimulatory signaling by a bispecific antibody enhances anti-tumor activity of T cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1191866. [PMID: 37545491 PMCID: PMC10399592 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1191866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A higher density of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in the tumor microenvironment, particularly cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, is associated with improved clinical outcome in various cancers. However, local inhibitory factors can suppress T cell activity and hinder anti-tumor immunity. Notably, TILs from various cancer types express the co-stimulatory Tumor Necrosis Factor receptor CD27, making it a potential target for co-stimulation and re-activation of tumor-infiltrated and tumor-reactive T cells. Anti-cancer therapeutics based on exploiting CD27-mediated T cell co-stimulation have proven safe, but clinical responses remain limited. This is likely because current monoclonal antibodies fail to effectively activate CD27 signaling, as this receptor requires higher-order receptor cross-linking. Here, we report on a bispecific antibody, CD27xEGFR, that targets both CD27 and the tumor antigen, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). By targeting EGFR, which is commonly expressed on carcinomas, CD27xEGFR induced cancer cell-localized crosslinking and activation of CD27. The design of CD27xEGFR includes an Fc-silent domain, which is designed to minimize potential toxicity by reducing Fc gamma receptor-mediated binding and activation of immune cells. CD27xEGFR bound to both of its targets simultaneously and triggered EGFR-restricted co-stimulation of T cells as measured by T cell proliferation, T cell activation markers, cytotoxicity and IFN-γ release. Further, CD27xEGFR augmented T cell cytotoxicity in a panel of artificial antigen-presenting carcinoma cell line models, leading to Effector-to-Target ratio-dependent elimination of cancer cells. Taken together, we present the in vitro characterization of a novel bispecific antibody that re-activates T cell immunity in EGFR-expressing cancers through targeted co-stimulation of CD27.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinicio Melo
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Levi Collin Nelemans
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Vlaming
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Harm Jan Lourens
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Valerie R. Wiersma
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Vrouyr Bilemjian
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Gerwin Huls
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Marco de Bruyn
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Edwin Bremer
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Huang PL, Kan HT, Hsu CH, Hsieh HT, Cheng WC, Huang RY, You JJ. A bispecific antibody AP203 targeting PD-L1 and CD137 exerts potent antitumor activity without toxicity. J Transl Med 2023; 21:346. [PMID: 37226226 PMCID: PMC10210478 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bispecific antibody has garnered considerable attention in the recent years due to its impressive preliminary efficacy in hematological malignancies. For solid tumors, however, the main hindrance is the suppressive tumor microenvironment, which effectively impedes the activation of infiltrating T cells. Herein, we designed a bispecific antibody AP203 with high binding affinity to PD-L1 and CD137 and assessed its safety and anti-tumor efficacy, as well as explored the mechanism of action. METHODS The optimal antibody binders against PD-L1 and CD137 were screened from the OmniMab phagemid library. The binding affinity of the constructed AP203 were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and biolayer interferometry (BLI). T-cell stimulatory capacity was assessed using the allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), antigen-specific recall response, and coculture with PD-L1-expressing cells. In vivo antitumor efficacy was evaluated using two models of tumor-xenografted humanized mice with profiling of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). The possible toxicity of AP203 was examined using in vitro cytokine release assay by human PBMCs. RESULTS AP203, which simultaneously targeted PD-L1 and costimulatory CD137, elicit superior agonistic effects over parental antibodies alone or in combination in terms of T cell activation, enhanced memory recall responses, and overcoming Treg-mediated immunosuppression (P < 0.05). The agonistic activity of AP203 was further demonstrated PD-L1-dependent by coculturing T cells with PD-L1-expressing cells. In vivo animal studies using immunodeficient or immunocompetent mice both showed a dose-related antitumor efficacy superior to parental antibodies in combination (P < 0.05). Correspondingly, AP203 significantly increased tumor infiltrating CD8 + T cells, while decreased CD4 + T cells, as well as Treg cells (P < 0.05), resulting in a dose-dependent increase in the CD8 + /CD4 + ratio. Moreover, either soluble or immobilized AP203 did not induce the production of inflammatory cytokines by human PBMCs. CONCLUSIONS AP203 exerts potent antitumor activity not only by blocking PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitory signaling, but also by activating CD137 costimulatory signaling in effector T cells that consequently counteracts Treg-mediated immunosuppression. Based on promising preclinical results, AP203 should be a suitable candidate for clinical treatment of solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Lin Huang
- AP Biosciences, Inc., 17F., No. 3, Yuanqu St., Nangang Dist., Taipei, 115603, Taiwan.
| | - Hung-Tsai Kan
- AP Biosciences, Inc., 17F., No. 3, Yuanqu St., Nangang Dist., Taipei, 115603, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsuan Hsu
- AP Biosciences, Inc., 17F., No. 3, Yuanqu St., Nangang Dist., Taipei, 115603, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ta Hsieh
- AP Biosciences, Inc., 17F., No. 3, Yuanqu St., Nangang Dist., Taipei, 115603, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Chien Cheng
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, Tri-Service General Hospital and National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ren-Yeong Huang
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, Tri-Service General Hospital and National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jhong-Jhe You
- AP Biosciences, Inc., 17F., No. 3, Yuanqu St., Nangang Dist., Taipei, 115603, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
MMR Deficiency Defines Distinct Molecular Subtype of Breast Cancer with Histone Proteomic Networks. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065327. [PMID: 36982402 PMCID: PMC10049366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mismatch repair (MMR) alterations are important prognostic and predictive biomarkers in a variety of cancer subtypes, including colorectal and endometrial. However, in breast cancer (BC), the distinction and clinical significance of MMR are largely unknown. This may be due in part to the fact that genetic alterations in MMR genes are rare and only seen to occur in around 3% of BCs. In the present study, we analyzed TCGA data using a multi-sample protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis tool, Proteinarium, and showed a distinct separation between specific MMR-deficient and -intact networks in a cohort of 994 BC patients. In the PPI networks specific to MMR deficiency, highly connected clusters of histone genes were identified. We also found the distribution of MMR-deficient BC to be more prevalent in HER2-enriched and triple-negative (TN) BC subtypes compared to luminal BCs. We recommend defining MMR-deficient BC by next-generation sequencing (NGS) when any somatic mutation is detected in one of the seven MMR genes.
Collapse
|
20
|
Liao P, Jiang M, Islam MS, Wang Y, Chen X. TNFR2 expression predicts the responses to immune checkpoint inhibitor treatments. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1097090. [PMID: 36865537 PMCID: PMC9971721 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1097090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) by targeting PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA-4 have markedly improved the outcome of cancer patients. However, most solid tumor patients can't benefit from such therapy. Identification of novel biomarkers to predict the responses of ICIs is crucial to enhance their therapeutic efficacy. TNFR2 is highly expressed by the maximally immunosuppressive subset of CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), especially those present in tumor microenvironment (TME). Since Tregs represent a major cellular mechanism in tumor immune evasion, TNFR2 may be a useful biomarker to predict the responses to ICIs therapy. This notion is supported by our analysis of the computational tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) framework from published single-cell RNA-seq data of pan-cancer databases. The results show that, as expected, TNFR2 is highly expressed by tumor-infiltrating Tregs. Interestingly, TNFR2 is also expressed by the exhausted CD8 T cells in breast cancer (BRCA), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), and melanoma (MELA). Importantly, high expression of TNFR2 is associated with poor responses to the treatment with ICIs in BRCA, HCC, LUSC, and MELA. In conclusion, the expression of TNFR2 in TME may be a reliable biomarker for the precision of ICIs treatment of cancer patients, and this idea merits further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Liao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Mengmeng Jiang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Md Sahidul Islam
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yiru Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China.,Department of Pharmceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China.,MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dey M, Kim MH, Dogan M, Nagamine M, Kozhaya L, Celik N, Unutmaz D, Ozbolat IT. Chemotherapeutics and CAR-T Cell-Based Immunotherapeutics Screening on a 3D Bioprinted Vascularized Breast Tumor Model. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2022; 32:2203966. [PMID: 38938621 PMCID: PMC11209929 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202203966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Despite substantial advancements in development of cancer treatments, lack of standardized and physiologically-relevant in vitro testing platforms limit the early screening of anticancer agents. A major barrier is the complex interplay between the tumor microenvironment and immune response. To tackle this, a dynamic-flow based 3D bioprinted multi-scale vascularized breast tumor model, responding to chemo and immunotherapeutics is developed. Heterotypic tumors are precisely bioprinted at pre-defined distances from a perfused vasculature, exhibit tumor angiogenesis and cancer cell invasion into the perfused vasculature. Bioprinted tumors treated with varying dosages of doxorubicin for 72 h portray a dose-dependent drug response behavior. More importantly, a cell based immune therapy approach is explored by perfusing HER2-targeting chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) modified CD8+ T cells for 24 or 72 h. Extensive CAR-T cell recruitment to the endothelium, substantial T cell activation and infiltration to the tumor site, resulted in up to ≈70% reduction in tumor volumes. The presented platform paves the way for a robust, precisely fabricated, and physiologically-relevant tumor model for future translation of anti-cancer therapies to personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhuri Dey
- Department of Chemistry, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Myoung Hwan Kim
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Biomedical Engineering Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Mikail Dogan
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Momoka Nagamine
- Department of Chemistry, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Lina Kozhaya
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Nazmiye Celik
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Derya Unutmaz
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA; University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Ibrahim T Ozbolat
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Biomedical Engineering Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Materials Research Institute, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Cancer Institute, Penn State University, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; Neurosurgery Department, Penn State University, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Cukurova University, Adana 01330, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
MYC promotes immune-suppression in triple-negative breast cancer via inhibition of interferon signaling. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6579. [PMID: 36323660 PMCID: PMC9630413 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34000-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The limited efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients is attributed to sparse or unresponsive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, but the mechanisms that lead to a therapy resistant tumor immune microenvironment are incompletely known. Here we show a strong correlation between MYC expression and loss of immune signatures in human TNBC. In mouse models of TNBC proficient or deficient of breast cancer type 1 susceptibility gene (BRCA1), MYC overexpression dramatically decreases lymphocyte infiltration in tumors, along with immune signature remodelling. MYC-mediated suppression of inflammatory signalling induced by BRCA1/2 inactivation is confirmed in human TNBC cell lines. Moreover, MYC overexpression prevents the recruitment and activation of lymphocytes in both human and mouse TNBC co-culture models. Chromatin-immunoprecipitation-sequencing reveals that MYC, together with its co-repressor MIZ1, directly binds promoters of multiple interferon-signalling genes, resulting in their downregulation. MYC overexpression thus counters tumor growth inhibition by a Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) agonist via suppressing induction of interferon signalling. Together, our data reveal that MYC suppresses innate immunity and facilitates tumor immune escape, explaining the poor immunogenicity of MYC-overexpressing TNBCs.
Collapse
|
23
|
Nelczyk AT, Ma L, Gupta AD, Gamage HEV, McHenry MT, Henn MA, Kadiri M, Wang Y, Krawczynska N, Bendre S, He S, Shahoei SH, Madak-Erdogan Z, Hsiao SH, Saleh T, Carpenter V, Gewirtz DA, Spinella MJ, Nelson ER. The nuclear receptor TLX (NR2E1) inhibits growth and progression of triple- negative breast cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166515. [PMID: 35932893 PMCID: PMC9983295 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Development of targeted therapies will be a critical step towards reducing the mortality associated with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). To achieve this, we searched for targets that met three criteria: (1) pharmacologically targetable, (2) expressed in TNBC, and (3) expression is prognostic in TNBC patients. Since nuclear receptors have a well-defined ligand-binding domain and are thus highly amenable to small-molecule intervention, we focused on this class of protein. Our analysis identified TLX (NR2E1) as a candidate. Specifically, elevated tumoral TLX expression was associated with prolonged recurrence-free survival and overall survival for breast cancer patients with either estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-negative or basal-like tumors. Using two TNBC cell lines, we found that stable overexpression of TLX impairs in vitro proliferation. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that TLX reduced the expression of genes implicated in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a cellular program known to drive metastatic progression. Indeed, TLX overexpression significantly decreased cell migration and invasion, and robustly decreased the metastatic capacity of TNBC cells in murine models. We identify SERPINB2 as a likely mediator of these effects. Taken together, our work indicates that TLX impedes the progression of TNBC. Several ligands have been shown to regulate the transcriptional activity of TLX, providing a framework for the future development of this receptor for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam T. Nelczyk
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Liqian Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Anasuya Das Gupta
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Hashni Epa Vidana Gamage
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Michael T. McHenry
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Madeline A. Henn
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Mohammed Kadiri
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Natalia Krawczynska
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Shruti Bendre
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Sisi He
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Sayyed Hamed Shahoei
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Zeynep Madak-Erdogan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Shih-Hsuan Hsiao
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Tareq Saleh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Valerie Carpenter
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
| | - David A. Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
| | - Michael J. Spinella
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, 61801, USA,Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Erik R. Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, 61801, USA,Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jiang N, Hu Y, Wang M, Zhao Z, Li M. The Notch Signaling Pathway Contributes to Angiogenesis and Tumor Immunity in Breast Cancer. BREAST CANCER: TARGETS AND THERAPY 2022; 14:291-309. [PMID: 36193236 PMCID: PMC9526507 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s376873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer in women is the first leading tumor in terms of incidence worldwide. Some subtypes of BC lack distinct molecular targets and exhibit therapeutic resistance; these patients have a poor prognosis. Thus, the search for new molecular targets is an ongoing challenge for BC therapy. The Notch signaling pathway is found in both vertebrates and invertebrates, and it is a highly conserved in the evolution of the species, controlling cellular fates such as death, proliferation, and differentiation. Numerous studies have shown that improper activation of Notch signaling may lead to excessive cell proliferation and cancer, with tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive effects in various carcinomas. Thus, inhibitors of Notch signaling are actively being investigated for the treatment of various tumors. The role of Notch signaling in BC has been widely studied in recent years. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that Notch signaling has a pro-oncogenic role in BC, and the tumor-promoting effect is largely a result of the diverse nature of tumor immunity. Immunological abnormality is also a factor involved in the pathogenesis of BC, suggesting that Notch signaling could be a target for BC immunotherapies. Furthermore, angiogenesis is essential for BC growth and metastasis, and the Notch signaling pathway has been implicated in angiogenesis, so studying the role of Notch signaling in BC angiogenesis will provide new prospects for the treatment of BC. We summarize the potential roles of the current Notch signaling pathway and its inhibitors in BC angiogenesis and the immune response in this review and describe the pharmacological targets of Notch signaling in BC, which may serve as a theoretical foundation for future research into exploring this pathway for novel BC therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Jiang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Hu
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meiling Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zuowei Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Zuowei Zhao, Department of Breast Surgery, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-0411-84671291, Fax +86-0411-84671230, Email
| | - Man Li
- Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China
- Man Li, Department of Oncology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-0411-84671291, Fax +86-0411-84671230, Email
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Shi D, Zhong W, Liu D, Sun X, Hao S, Yang Y, Ao L, Zhou J, Xia Y, Zhou Y, Yu H, Xia H. Computational identification of immune-related lncRNA signature for predicting the prognosis and immune landscape of human glioblastoma multiforme. Front Immunol 2022; 13:932938. [PMID: 36032137 PMCID: PMC9412749 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.932938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows immune-related long noncoding RNAs (ir-lncRNAs) perform critical roles in tumor progression and prognosis assessment. However, the identification of ir-lncRNAs and their clinical significance in human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remain largely unexplored. Here, a designed computational frame based on immune score was used to identify differentially expressed ir-lncRNAs (DEir-lncRNAs) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) GBM program. The immune-related lncRNA signature (IRLncSig) composed of prognosis-related DEir-lncRNAs selected by Cox regression analysis and its clinical predictive values were verified, which was further validated by another dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO). Subsequently, the association between IRLncSig and immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) biomarkers, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene expression, and biological function were also analyzed. After calculation, five prognosis-related ir-lncRNAs were included in the establishment of IRLncSig. The risk assessment based on IRLncSig indicated that the high-IRLncSig-score group was significantly associated with poor prognosis (p < 0.001), significant aggregation of macrophages (p < 0.05), higher ICI biomarker expression, and MGMT gene expression (p < 0.05). Signature-related lncRNAs may be involved in immune activities in the tumorigenesis and progression of GBM. In summary, the novel IRLncSig shows a promising clinical value in predicting the prognosis and immune landscape of GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongjie Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenjie Zhong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing General Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaochuan Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shilei Hao
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaying Yang
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Medicine and Tumor Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Ao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junjie Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Molecular Medicine and Tumor Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongzhi Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yudong Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haijian Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Haijian Xia,
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Khalifa AM, Nakamura T, Sato Y, Sato T, Hyodo M, Hayakawa Y, Harashima H. Interval- and cycle-dependent combined effect of STING agonist loaded lipid nanoparticles and a PD-1 antibody. Int J Pharm 2022; 624:122034. [PMID: 35863595 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) blockade combination to other drugs have attracted the interest of scientists for treating tumors resistant to PD-1 blockade. In this study, the impact of the interval, order of administration, and number of cycles of immunotherapeutic combination of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway agonist loaded lipid nanoparticle (STING-LNP) and PD-1 antibody for inducing the optimal combined antitumor activity against a melanoma lung metastasis is reported. One cycle had no effect, but two and three cycles resulted in a combinedantitumor effect. The interval between the administration was found to influence the induction of the combined effect. The second and third doses increased the gene expression of the NK cell activation marker, interferon γ (IFN-γ), PD-1 and a ligand of PD-1 (PD-L1), whereas the first dose failed. NK cells in the lung showed an increase in the expression of the activation markers and PD-1 after the second dose. The combined antitumor effect of this combination therapy against melanoma lung metastasis model could be dependent on the interval as well as the number of doses of STING-LNP.These findings suggest the importance of the protocol setting when combining a nano system loaded with an immune adjuvant and PD-1 antibody.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaa M Khalifa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakamura
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Yusuke Sato
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan
| | - Takanori Sato
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan
| | - Mamoru Hyodo
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Aichi Institute of Technology, 1247 Yachigusa, Yakusa-cho Toyota, Aichi 470-0392, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hayakawa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Aichi Institute of Technology, 1247 Yachigusa, Yakusa-cho Toyota, Aichi 470-0392, Japan
| | - Hideyoshi Harashima
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Implications for Immunotherapy of Breast Cancer by Understanding the Microenvironment of a Solid Tumor. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133178. [PMID: 35804950 PMCID: PMC9264853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is poorly immunogenic due to immunosuppressive mechanisms produced in part by the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is a peritumoral area containing significant quantities of (1) cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), (2) tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and (3) tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). This combination protects the tumor from effective immune responses. How these protective cell types are generated and how the changes in the developing tumor relate to these subsets is only partially understood. Immunotherapies targeting solid tumors have proven ineffective largely due to this protective TME barrier. Therefore, a better understanding of the interplay between the tumor, the tumor microenvironment and immune cells would both advance immunotherapeutic research and lead to more effective immunotherapies. This review will summarize the current understanding of the microenvironment of breast cancer giving implications for future immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
28
|
The Novel Immune Checkpoint GPR56 Is Expressed on Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and Selectively Upregulated upon TCR Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133164. [PMID: 35804934 PMCID: PMC9264967 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
High levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are associated with a survival benefit in various cancer types and the targeted (re)activation of TILs is an attractive therapeutic anti-cancer approach that yields curative responses. However, current T cell targeting strategies directed at known immune checkpoints have not increased objective response rates for all cancer types, including for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). For this reason, the identification of new immune checkpoints that regulate T cell immunity remains of great interest. One yet largely uninvestigated checkpoint of potential interest is the G protein-coupled receptor 56 (GPR56), which belongs to the adhesion GPCR family. GPR56 was originally reported to function in cerebral cortical development and in anti-depressant response, but also in cancer. Recently, GPR56 was identified as an inhibitory receptor expressed on human NK cells that by cis-interaction with the tetraspanin CD81 attenuated the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. This NK cell checkpoint could be blocked by an GPR56 antibody, leading to increased cytotoxicity. Interestingly, GPR56 expression has also been reported on cytokine producing memory CD8 T lymphocytes and may thus represent a T cell checkpoint as well. Here, GPR56 mRNA expression was characterized in the context of TILs, with GPR56 expression being detected predominantly in tumor infiltrating CD8 T cells with a cytotoxic and (pre-)exhausted phenotype. In accordance with this mRNA profile, TILs from ovarian cancer patients expressed GPR56 primarily within the effector memory and central memory T cell subsets. On T cells from healthy donors the expression was limited to effector memory and terminally differentiated T cells. Notably, GPR56 expression further increased on TILs upon T cell receptor (TCR)-mediated stimulation in co-cultures with cancer cells, whereas GPR56 expression on healthy primary human T cells did not. Further, the ectopic expression of GPR56 significantly reduced the migration of GPR56-positive T cells. Taken together, GPR56 is a potential immune-checkpoint in EOC found on (pre-)exhausted CD8 TILs that may regulate migratory behavior.
Collapse
|
29
|
Mukuku O, Mwang Sulu SM, Massamba BL, Sul Sulu AM, Batalansi DB, Mboloko JE, Wembonyama SO, Tshimpi Wola A. PD-L1 expression in Congolese women with triplenegative breast cancer. JOURNAL OF CANCER PREVENTION & CURRENT RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.15406/jcpcr.2022.13.00489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
30
|
Zhang J, Pan S, Jian C, Hao L, Dong J, Sun Q, Jin H, Han X. Immunostimulatory Properties of Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer: From Immunogenic Modulation Mechanisms to Clinical Practice. Front Immunol 2022; 12:819405. [PMID: 35069604 PMCID: PMC8766762 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.819405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among females. Chemotherapy drugs remain the cornerstone of treatment of BC and undergo significant shifts over the past 100 years. The advent of immunotherapy presents promising opportunities and constitutes a significant complementary to existing therapeutic strategies for BC. Chemotherapy as a cytotoxic treatment that targets proliferation malignant cells has recently been shown as an effective immune-stimulus in multiple ways. Chemotherapeutic drugs can cause the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) from dying tumor cells, which result in long-lasting antitumor immunity by the key process of immunogenic cell death (ICD). Furthermore, Off-target effects of chemotherapy on immune cell subsets mainly involve activation of immune effector cells including natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and cytotoxic T cells, and depletion of immunosuppressive cells including Treg cells, M2 macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Current mini-review summarized recent large clinical trials regarding the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in BC and addressed the molecular mechanisms of immunostimulatory properties of chemotherapy in BC. The purpose of our work was to explore the immune-stimulating effects of chemotherapy at the molecular level based on the evidence from clinical trials, which might be a rationale for combinations of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinguo Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Shuaikang Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chen Jian
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Li Hao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qingqing Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hongwei Jin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xinghua Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wan W, Ao X, Chen Q, Yu Y, Ao L, Xing W, Guo W, Wu X, Pu C, Hu X, Li Z, Yao M, Luo D, Xu X. METTL3/IGF2BP3 axis inhibits tumor immune surveillance by upregulating N 6-methyladenosine modification of PD-L1 mRNA in breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:60. [PMID: 35197058 PMCID: PMC8864846 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01447-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continual expression of PD-L1 in tumor cells is critical for tumor immune escape and host T cell exhaustion, however, knowledge on its clinical benefits through inhibition is limited in breast cancer. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a crucial role in multiple biological activities. Our study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of the m6A modification in PD-L1 expression and immune surveillance in breast cancer. METHODS MeRIP-seq and epitranscriptomic microarray identified that PD-L1 is the downstream target of METTL3. MeRIP-qPCR, absolute quantification of m6A modification assay, and RIP-qPCR were used to examine the molecular mechanism underlying METTL3/m6A/IGF2BP3 signaling axis in PD-L1 expression. B-NDG and BALB/c mice were used to construct xenograft tumor models to verify the phenotypes upon METTL3 and IGF2BP3 silencing. In addition, breast cancer tissue microarray was used to analyze the correlation between PD-L1 and METTL3 or IGF2BP3 expression. RESULTS We identified that PD-L1 was a downstream target of METTL3-mediated m6A modification in breast cancer cells. METTL3 knockdown significantly abolished m6A modification and reduced stabilization of PD-L1 mRNA. Additionally, METTL3-mediated PD-L1 mRNA activation was m6A-IGF2BP3-dependent. Moreover, inhibition of METTL3 or IGF2BP3 enhanced anti-tumor immunity through PD-L1-mediated T cell activation, exhaustion, and infiltration both in vitro and in vivo. PD-L1 expression was also positively correlated with METTL3 and IGF2BP3 expression in breast cancer tissues. CONCLUSION Our study suggested that METTL3 could post-transcriptionally upregulate PD-L1 expression in an m6A-IGF2BP3-dependent manner to further promote stabilization of PD-L1 mRNA, which may have important implications for new and efficient therapeutic strategies in the tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weijun Wan
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China.,Department of Breast, Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xiang Ao
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Quan Chen
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Luoquan Ao
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Wei Xing
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wu
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Chengxiu Pu
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xueting Hu
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Zhan Li
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Mengwei Yao
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Donglin Luo
- Department of Breast, Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China.
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No. 10, Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Singh R, Manna PP. Reactive oxygen species in cancer progression and its role in therapeutics. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2022.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The redox status in pathogenesis is critically regulated by careful balance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their elimination. Increased ROS level above the cellular tolerability threshold results in apoptotic or necrotic cell death. ROS belongs to a group of highly reactive compounds that have evolved to play key roles in cellular signaling pathways. It’s widely assumed that a reasonable amount of ROS is essential for a variety of biological processes. Elevated levels of ROS are known to cause various pathologic conditions like neurological disorders, cardiovascular conditions, inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer. ROS is well known to initiate and assist in progression of tumor by promoting proliferation and survival of cancer cells and thus facilitates pro-tumorigenic signaling in tumor microenvironment. As cancer cells become more resilient to the effects of ROS manipulating drugs, increased antioxidant capacity attenuates their susceptibility to cancer treatment. Excessive environmental stress, on the other hand, can cause cancer cells to die. This review summarizes various molecular mechanisms including the role of checkpoint inhibitors that can be harnessed to develop effective therapeutic strategies for targeting ROS
related signaling in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjeet Singh
- Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Partha Pratim Manna
- Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ma L, Cho W, Nelson ER. Our evolving understanding of how 27-hydroxycholesterol influences cancer. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 196:114621. [PMID: 34043965 PMCID: PMC8611110 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol has been implicated in the pathophysiology and progression of several cancers now, although the mechanisms by which it influences cancer biology are just emerging. Two likely contributing mechanisms are the ability for cholesterol to directly regulate signaling molecules within the membrane, and certain metabolites acting as signaling molecules. One such metabolite is the oxysterol 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), which is a primary metabolite of cholesterol synthesized by the enzyme Cytochrome P450 27A1 (CYP27A1). Physiologically, 27HC is involved in the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis and contributes to cholesterol efflux through liver X receptor (LXR) and inhibition of de novo cholesterol synthesis through the insulin-induced proteins (INSIGs). 27HC is also a selective modulator of the estrogen receptors. An increasing number of studies have identified its importance in cancer progression of various origins, especially in breast cancer. In this review, we discuss the physiological roles of 27HC targeting these two nuclear receptors and the subsequent contribution to cancer progression. We describe how 27HC promotes tumor growth directly through cancer-intrinsic factors, and indirectly through its immunomodulatory roles which lead to decreased immune surveillance and increased tumor invasion. This review underscores the importance of the cholesterol metabolic pathway in cancer progression and the potential therapeutic utility of targeting this metabolic pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liqian Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Wonhwa Cho
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Erik R. Nelson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL,Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL,University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Anticancer Discovery from Pets to People Theme, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL,To whom correspondence and reprint requests should be addressed: Erik R. Nelson. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. 407 S Goodwin Ave (MC-114), Urbana, IL, 61801. Phone: 217-244-5477. Fax: 217-333-1133.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Maqbool M, Bekele F, Fekadu G. Treatment Strategies Against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: An Updated Review. BREAST CANCER (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS) 2022; 14:15-24. [PMID: 35046722 PMCID: PMC8760999 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s348060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with an increased risk of early recurrence and distant metastasis, as well as the development of therapeutic resistance and poor prognosis. TNBC is characterized by a wide range of genetic, immunophenotypic, morphological, and clinical features. TNBC is coined to describe cancers that lack estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). As a result, hormonal or trastuzumab-based treatments are ineffective in TNBC patients. TNBCs are biologically aggressive, and despite some evidence that they respond to treatment better than other forms of breast cancer, the prognosis remains poor. This is attributed to a shorter disease-free interval in adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings, as well as a more aggressive metastatic course. TNBC has a lot of clinical ramifications. In terms of new treatment methods, TNBC has lagged behind other types of breast cancer. There are not many options for treating this form of breast cancer because it is progressive. Many effective treatments for most breast cancers block the growth-stimulating effects of ER, PR, and/or HER2, leaving TNBC with few choices. Finding new and effective treatment options for TNBC remains a critical clinical need. To develop more effective drugs, new experimental approaches must be tested in patients with TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mudasir Maqbool
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Firomsa Bekele
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Ginenus Fekadu
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.,Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhao Y, Liu X, Liu X, Yu J, Bai X, Wu X, Guo X, Liu Z, Liu X. Combination of phototherapy with immune checkpoint blockade: Theory and practice in cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:955920. [PMID: 36119019 PMCID: PMC9478587 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.955920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy has evolved as a revolutionized therapeutic modality to eradicate tumor cells by releasing the brake of the antitumor immune response. However, only a subset of patients could benefit from ICB treatment currently. Phototherapy usually includes photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT). PTT exerts a local therapeutic effect by using photothermal agents to generate heat upon laser irradiation. PDT utilizes irradiated photosensitizers with a laser to produce reactive oxygen species to kill the target cells. Both PTT and PDT can induce immunogenic cell death in tumors to activate antigen-presenting cells and promote T cell infiltration. Therefore, combining ICB treatment with PTT/PDT can enhance the antitumor immune response and prevent tumor metastases and recurrence. In this review, we summarized the mechanism of phototherapy in cancer immunotherapy and discussed the recent advances in the development of phototherapy combined with ICB therapy to treat malignant tumors. Moreover, we also outlined the significant progress of phototherapy combined with targeted therapy or chemotherapy to improve ICB in preclinical and clinical studies. Finally, we analyzed the current challenges of this novel combination treatment regimen. We believe that the next-generation technology breakthrough in cancer treatment may come from this combinational win-win strategy of photoimmunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Zhao
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Head, Neck and Mammary Gland Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Bai
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi Wu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyu Guo
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Breast, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Xu Y, He L, Fu Q, Hu J. Metabolic Reprogramming in the Tumor Microenvironment With Immunocytes and Immune Checkpoints. Front Oncol 2021; 11:759015. [PMID: 34858835 PMCID: PMC8632143 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.759015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), Ipilimumab, Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab and Atezolizumab, have been applied in anti-tumor therapy and demonstrated exciting performance compared to conventional treatments. However, the unsatisfactory response rates, high recurrence and adaptive resistance limit their benefits. Metabolic reprogramming appears to be one of the crucial barriers to immunotherapy. The deprivation of required nutrients and altered metabolites not only promote tumor progression but also confer dysfunction on immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Glycolysis plays a central role in metabolic reprogramming and immunoregulation in the TME, and many therapies targeting glycolysis have been developed, and their combinations with ICIs are in preclinical and clinical trials. Additional attention has been paid to the role of amino acids, lipids, nucleotides and mitochondrial biogenesis in metabolic reprogramming and clinical anti-tumor therapy. This review attempts to describe reprogramming metabolisms within tumor cells and immune cells, from the aspects of glycolysis, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis and their impact on immunity in the TME, as well as the significance of targeting metabolism in anti-tumor therapy, especially in combination with ICIs. In particular, we highlight the expression mechanism of programmed cell death (ligand) 1 [PD-(L)1] in tumor cells and immune cells under reprogramming metabolism, and discuss in detail the potential of targeting key metabolic pathways to break resistance and improve the efficacy of ICIs based on results from current preclinical and clinical trials. Besides, we draw out biomarkers of potential predictive value in ICIs treatment from a metabolic perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaolin Xu
- Department of Oncology, The People's Hospital of China Medical University/The People's Hospital of LiaoNing Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Lijie He
- Department of Oncology, The People's Hospital of China Medical University/The People's Hospital of LiaoNing Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The People's Hospital of China Medical University/The People's Hospital of LiaoNing Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Junzhe Hu
- The Second Clinic Medical College, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Capietto AH, Lee S, Clever D, Eul E, Ellis H, Ma CX, Faccio R. Effective Treatment of Established Bone Metastases Can Be Achieved by Combinatorial Osteoclast Blockade and Depletion of Granulocytic Subsets. Cancer Immunol Res 2021; 9:1400-1412. [PMID: 34551967 PMCID: PMC8642282 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Osteoclast (OC) blockade has been successful in reducing tumor growth in bone in preclinical settings, but antiresorptive drugs, such as zoledronic acid (ZA), fail to improve the overall survival rate of patients with bone metastasis despite ameliorating skeletal complications. To address this unmet clinical need, we interrogated what other cells modulated tumor growth in bone in addition to OCs. Because myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC)-heterogeneous populations expressing CD11b, Ly6C, and Ly6G markers-originate in the bone marrow and promote tumor progression, we hypothesized that their accumulation hinders ZA antitumor effects. By using a murine model of bone metastasis insensitive to OC blockade, we assessed the antitumor effect of MDSC depletion using anti-Gr1 in mice bearing skeletal lung [Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC)], melanoma (B16-F10), and mammary (4T1) tumors. Differently from soft tissue tumors, anti-Gr1 did not reduce bone metastases and led to the paradoxical accumulation of bone marrow-resident CD11b+Ly6CintLy6Gint cells that differentiated into OCs when cultured in vitro Anti-Gr1-mediated depletion of Ly6G+ granulocytic MDSCs combined with ZA-induced OC blockade reduced growth of established skeletal metastases compared with each agent alone. CD15+ granulocytic populations were increased in patients with breast cancer with progressive bone disease after antiresorptive treatment compared with those with stable bone disease. We provide evidence that antiresorptive therapies fail to reduce bone metastases in the presence of elevated granulocytic populations and that effective treatment of established skeletal metastases requires combinatorial depletion of granulocytes and OC blockade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aude-Hélène Capietto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Seunghyun Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David Clever
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Emily Eul
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Haley Ellis
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Cynthia X Ma
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Roberta Faccio
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Malkova AM, Sharoyko VV, Zhukova NV, Gubal AR, Orlova RV. Laboratory biomarkers of an effective antitumor immune response. Clinical significance. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 29:100489. [PMID: 34837797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The modern checkpoint inhibitors block the programmed death-1 receptor and its ligand, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 on tumor cells and lymphocytes, that induces cytotoxic reactions. Nowadays, there are no approved clinical and laboratory predictor markers of immune therapy efficacy, which would allow a more personalized approach to patient selection and treatment. The aim of this review is to analyze possible biomarkers of efficacy for treatment with checkpoint inhibitors according to the pathogenic mechanisms of drug action. The review revealed possible predictive biomarkers, that could be classified to 3 groups: biomarkers of high mutagenic potential of the tumor, biomarkers of high activity of adaptive immunity, biomarkers of low activity of the tumor microenvironment. The determination of the described markers before the start of therapy can be used to formulate a treatment regimen, in which the use of various immunomodulatory drugs, inhibitors of proinflammatory cytokines, angiogenic molecules, and probiotics can be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Malkova
- Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation.
| | - V V Sharoyko
- Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation.
| | - N V Zhukova
- Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation.
| | - A R Gubal
- Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation.
| | - R V Orlova
- Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russian Federation.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
An Immune-Related Gene Prognostic Index for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Integrates Multiple Aspects of Tumor-Immune Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215342. [PMID: 34771505 PMCID: PMC8582543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most refractory subtype of breast cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has made progress in TNBC treatment. PD-L1 expression is a useful biomarker of ICI therapy efficacy. However, tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) factors, such as immune cell compositions and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) status, also influence tumor immunity. Therefore, it is necessary to seek biomarkers that are associated with multiple aspects of TIME in TNBC. In this study, we developed an immune-related gene prognostic index (IRGPI) with a substantial prognostic value for TNBC. Moreover, the results from multiple cohorts reproducibly demonstrate that IRGPI is significantly associated with immune cell compositions, the exclusion and dysfunction of TILs, as well as PD-1 and PD-L1 expression in TIME. Therefore, IRGPI is a promising biomarker closely related to patient survival and TIME of TNBC and may have a potential effect on the immunotherapy strategy of TNBC. Abstract Tumor-immune cell compositions and immune checkpoints comprehensively affect TNBC outcomes. With the significantly improved survival rate of TNBC patients treated with ICI therapies, a biomarker integrating multiple aspects of TIME may have prognostic value for improving the efficacy of ICI therapy. Immune-related hub genes were identified with weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential gene expression assay using The Cancer Genome Atlas TNBC data set (n = 115). IRGPI was constructed with Cox regression analysis. Immune cell compositions and TIL status were analyzed with CIBERSORT and TIDE. The discovery was validated with the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium data set (n = 196) and a patient cohort from our hospital. Tumor expression or serum concentrations of CCL5, CCL25, or PD-L1 were determined with immunohistochemistry or ELISA. The constructed IRGPI was composed of CCL5 and CCL25 genes and was negatively associated with the patient’s survival. IRGPI also predicts the compositions of M0 and M2 macrophages, memory B cells, CD8+ T cells, activated memory CD4 T cells, and the exclusion and dysfunction of TILs, as well as PD-1 and PD-L1 expression of TNBC. IRGPI is a promising biomarker for predicting the prognosis and multiple immune characteristics of TNBC.
Collapse
|
40
|
Sancho-Araiz A, Zalba S, Garrido MJ, Berraondo P, Topp B, de Alwis D, Parra-Guillen ZP, Mangas-Sanjuan V, Trocóniz IF. Semi-Mechanistic Model for the Antitumor Response of a Combination Cocktail of Immuno-Modulators in Non-Inflamed (Cold) Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205049. [PMID: 34680196 PMCID: PMC8534053 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The clinical efficacy of immunotherapies when treating cold tumors is still low, and different treatment combinations are needed when dealing with this challenging scenario. In this work, a middle-out strategy was followed to develop a model describing the antitumor efficacy of different immune-modulator combinations, including an antigen, a toll-like receptor-3 agonist, and an immune checkpoint inhibitor in mice treated with non-inflamed tumor cells. Our results support that clinical response requires antigen-presenting cell activation and also relies on the amount of CD8 T cells and tumor resistance mechanisms present. This mathematical model is a very useful platform to evaluate different immuno-oncology combinations in both preclinical and clinical settings. Abstract Immune checkpoint inhibitors, administered as single agents, have demonstrated clinical efficacy. However, when treating cold tumors, different combination strategies are needed. This work aims to develop a semi-mechanistic model describing the antitumor efficacy of immunotherapy combinations in cold tumors. Tumor size of mice treated with TC-1/A9 non-inflamed tumors and the drug effects of an antigen, a toll-like receptor-3 agonist (PIC), and an immune checkpoint inhibitor (anti-programmed cell death 1 antibody) were modeled using Monolix and following a middle-out strategy. Tumor growth was best characterized by an exponential model with an estimated initial tumor size of 19.5 mm3 and a doubling time of 3.6 days. In the treatment groups, contrary to the lack of response observed in monotherapy, combinations including the antigen were able to induce an antitumor response. The final model successfully captured the 23% increase in the probability of cure from bi-therapy to triple-therapy. Moreover, our work supports that CD8+ T lymphocytes and resistance mechanisms are strongly related to the clinical outcome. The activation of antigen-presenting cells might be needed to achieve an antitumor response in reduced immunogenic tumors when combined with other immunotherapies. These models can be used as a platform to evaluate different immuno-oncology combinations in preclinical and clinical scenarios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aymara Sancho-Araiz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.S.-A.); (S.Z.); (M.J.G.); (Z.P.P.-G.)
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Sara Zalba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.S.-A.); (S.Z.); (M.J.G.); (Z.P.P.-G.)
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - María J. Garrido
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.S.-A.); (S.Z.); (M.J.G.); (Z.P.P.-G.)
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Brian Topp
- Quantitative Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA; (B.T.); (D.d.A.)
| | - Dinesh de Alwis
- Quantitative Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA; (B.T.); (D.d.A.)
| | - Zinnia P. Parra-Guillen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.S.-A.); (S.Z.); (M.J.G.); (Z.P.P.-G.)
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Víctor Mangas-Sanjuan
- Department of Pharmacy Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
- Interuniversity Institute of Recognition Research Molecular and Technological Development, Polytechnic University of Valencia-University of Valencia, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Iñaki F. Trocóniz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (A.S.-A.); (S.Z.); (M.J.G.); (Z.P.P.-G.)
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mehraj U, Ganai RA, Macha MA, Hamid A, Zargar MA, Bhat AA, Nasser MW, Haris M, Batra SK, Alshehri B, Al-Baradie RS, Mir MA, Wani NA. The tumor microenvironment as driver of stemness and therapeutic resistance in breast cancer: New challenges and therapeutic opportunities. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:1209-1229. [PMID: 34528143 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00634-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC), the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths, remains a significant threat to the health and wellness of women worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising cellular components, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, endothelial cells and adipocytes, and noncellular components such as extracellular matrix (ECM), has been recognized as a critical contributor to the development and progression of BC. The interplay between TME components and cancer cells promotes phenotypic heterogeneity, cell plasticity and cancer cell stemness that impart tumor dormancy, enhanced invasion and metastasis, and the development of therapeutic resistance. While most previous studies have focused on targeting cancer cells with a dismal prognosis, novel therapies targeting stromal components are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies, and are already showing improved efficacies. As such, they may offer better means to eliminate the disease effectively. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we focus on the evolving concept of the TME as a key player regulating tumor growth, metastasis, stemness, and the development of therapeutic resistance. Despite significant advances over the last decade, several clinical trials focusing on the TME have failed to demonstrate promising effectiveness in cancer patients. To expedite clinical efficacy of TME-directed therapies, a deeper understanding of the TME is of utmost importance. Secondly, the efficacy of TME-directed therapies when used alone or in combination with chemo- or radiotherapy, and the tumor stage needs to be studied. Likewise, identifying molecular signatures and biomarkers indicating the type of TME will help in determining precise TME-directed therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umar Mehraj
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Rais A Ganai
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Abid Hamid
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Mohammed A Zargar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.,Laboratory of Animal Research, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.,Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA.,Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Raid Saleem Al-Baradie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
| | - Nissar Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bai X, Ni J, Beretov J, Graham P, Li Y. Immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer: A molecular insight into the microenvironment, treatment, and resistance. JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL CANCER CENTER 2021; 1:75-87. [PMID: 39036372 PMCID: PMC11256541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jncc.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinicians have very limited options to treat triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) due to the lack of effective targeted drugs. Recently, the findings of the mechanism underlying tumor-intrinsic immune escape have fueled a wave of studies into immunotherapy in breast cancer (BC). Compared with other BC subtypes, TNBC shows a better response to immunotherapy due to the higher level of tumor mutation burden and lymphocyte infiltration. Thereinto, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) achieved the first success of immunotherapy for TNBC and are widely utilized with conventional treatments in the neoadjuvant/adjuvant and advanced stages. However, a large number of TNBC patients fail to demonstrate a good response to ICIs, and the acquired resistance to ICI-based therapies is clinically emerging, which is a major challenge for immunotherapy in TNBC. Here we review the latest advances in TNBC immune microenvironment, immunotherapy, and immunotherapeutic resistance and discuss the challenges and potential approaches to improve the clinical benefit of immunotherapy against TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xupeng Bai
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Jie Ni
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Julia Beretov
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Peter Graham
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
| | - Yong Li
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia
- School of Basic Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Son S, Shin JM, Shin S, Kim CH, Lee JA, Ko H, Lee ES, Jung JM, Kim J, Park JH. Repurposing macitentan with nanoparticle modulates tumor microenvironment to potentiate immune checkpoint blockade. Biomaterials 2021; 276:121058. [PMID: 34399119 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapy (ICT), which reinvigorates cytotoxic T cells, provides clinical benefits as an alternative to conventional cancer therapies. However, its clinical response rate is too low to treat an immune-excluded tumor, owing to the presence of abundant stromal elements impeding the penetration of immune cells. Here, we report that macitentan, a dual endothelin receptor antagonist approved by the FDA to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, can be repositioned to modulate the desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME). In the 4T1 orthotopic tumor model, the polymeric nanoparticles bearing macitentan (M-NPs) prevent fibrotic progression by regulating the function of cancer-associated fibroblasts, attenuate the biogenesis of cancer cell-derived exosomes, and modulate the T cell subsets and distribution in TME. These results demonstrate that the M-NPs effectively reorganize the immunosuppressive TME by targeting the endothelin-1 axis and consequently exhibit synergistic antitumor effects in combination with ICT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Son
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Min Shin
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; Department of Genetic Resources, National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea (MABIK), 75 Jangsan-ro 101-gil, Janghang-eup, Seocheon, 33662, Republic of Korea
| | - Sol Shin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Ho Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ah Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Ko
- Bionanotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sook Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Min Jung
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongyun Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyung Park
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wang J, Zhou M, Chen F, Liu X, Gao J, Wang W, Wang H, Yu H. Stimuli-Sheddable Nanomedicine Overcoming Pathophysiological Barriers for Potentiating Immunotherapy of Cancer. J Biomed Nanotechnol 2021; 17:1486-1509. [PMID: 34544528 DOI: 10.1166/jbn.2021.3134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy displays potent potential for clinical cancer management by activating the protective immune response; however, the microenvironment of the immunosuppressive tumor restricts the efficiency of immunotherapies. Along with the complex pathophysiological barrier of the solid tumors, successful immunotherapeutic delivery remains a formidable challenge for conventional nanomedicine. Stimuli-sheddable nano vectors may facilitate the delivery of cargoes to tumors with minimal premature cargo leakage in blood circulation while enhancing the tumor penetration of nanomedicines by deshielding the polyethylene glycol (PEG) corona upon endogenous activity such as acidity, enzymes and glutathione, or external stimuli, such as laser irradiation. Throughout this study, researchers overviewed the recent advances of nanomedicine-based cancer immunotherapy using the stimuli-responsive deshielding nano vectors, which allowed researchers to integrate multiple therapeutic regimens for inducing immunogenic cell death. This aided in blocking the immune checkpoints, repolarizing the macrophages, and regulating the kynurenine metabolism. Furthermore, researchers discussed the critical issues in the development of stimuli-sheddable nanoimmunodulators, primarily aimed at speeding up their clinical translation. Finally, researchers provided novel perspectives for improving cancer management with the stimuli-sheddable nanomedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Magnolia University, Huhhot, 010021, China
| | - Mengxue Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fangmin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Jin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Weiqi Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Magnolia University, Huhhot, 010021, China
| | - Haijun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Rimkus CM, Schoeps VA, Boaventura M, Godoy LF, Apostolos-Pereira SL, Calich AL, Callegaro D, Lucato LT, Rovira A, Sastre-Garriga J, Leite CDC. Drug-related demyelinating syndromes: understanding risk factors, pathophysiological mechanisms and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 55:103146. [PMID: 34332456 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Some drugs and medications can precipitate immune system deregulations, which might be confused with recurrent demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMO), exacerbations of an existing disease, neoplastic lesions or other conditions. In this narrative review we describe some of the most relevant drugs and medications associated with iatrogenic demyelination. The anthelminthic agent levamisole is a frequent cocaine adulterant and can precipitate an exacerbated immune response attacking the central nervous system (CNS). High-efficacy multiple sclerosis (MS) drugs might induce a selective CNS immunosuppression, making it susceptible for opportunistic infections that course with demyelination, such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Sometimes, the interruption of a high-efficacy drug to treat MS can induce a rapid CNS reentry of lymphocytes, exacerbating demyelinating processes and triggering rebound syndromes. Furthermore, selective cytokines inhibition, such as anti-TNFα agents, might induce an imbalance between cell death and proliferation inducing a paradoxical increase of CNS tumor necrosis factor (TNF), affecting the activity of lymphocytes, microglia and macrophages, triggering aberrant inflammation and demyelination. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a new class of antineoplastic drugs that enhance the immune response against tumor cells by an upregulation of T-cell activity. However, this hyperactivation of the immune system might be associated with induction of unwanted autoimmune responses. In this paper we review the risk factors, the possible pathological mechanisms and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of these drug-related demyelinating syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina M Rimkus
- Departamento de Radiologia e Oncologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Vinicius Andreoli Schoeps
- Departamento de Neurologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Mateus Boaventura
- Departamento de Neurologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Luis Filipe Godoy
- Departamento de Radiologia e Oncologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Samira Luisa Apostolos-Pereira
- Departamento de Neurologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Dagoberto Callegaro
- Departamento de Neurologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Leandro Tavares Lucato
- Departamento de Radiologia e Oncologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alex Rovira
- Section of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jaume Sastre-Garriga
- Department of Neurology/Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Claudia da Costa Leite
- Departamento de Radiologia e Oncologia, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Liu X, Li L, Si F, Huang L, Zhao Y, Zhang C, Hoft DF, Peng G. NK and NKT cells have distinct properties and functions in cancer. Oncogene 2021; 40:4521-4537. [PMID: 34120141 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01880-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells are two important cell subsets of the innate immune system. NK and NKT cells share many phenotypes and functions for anti-tumor immunity; however, the dynamic changes in phenotypes and functional interactions within the tumor microenvironment during tumor development and progression are unknown. Here we report that NK and NKT cells have distinct properties, metabolic profiles, and functions during tumor development. Using the mouse E0771 breast cancer and B16 melanoma models, we found that both NK and NKT cells are dynamically involved in the immune responses to cancer but have distinct distributions and phenotypic profiles in tumor sites and other peripheral organs during the course of tumor development and progression. In the early stages of tumor development, both NK and NKT cells exhibit effector properties. In the later cancer stages, NK and NKT cells have impaired cytotoxic capacities and dysfunctional states. NK cells become senescent cells, while NKT cells, other than invariant NKT (iNKT) cells, are exhausted in the advanced cancers. In contrast, iNKT cells develop increases in activation and effector function within the breast tumor microenvironment. In addition, senescent NK cells have heightened glucose and lipid metabolism, but exhausted NKT cells display unbalanced metabolism in tumor microenvironments of both breast cancer and melanoma tumor models. These studies provide a better understanding of the dynamic and distinct functional roles of NK and NKT cells in anti-tumor immunity, which may facilitate the development of novel immunotherapies targeting NK and NKT cells for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lingyun Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fusheng Si
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lan Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yangjing Zhao
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chenchen Zhang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Daniel F Hoft
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Guangyong Peng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy & Immunology and Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Arafah MA, Ouban A, Ameer OZ, Quek KJ. KI-67 LI Expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients and Its Significance. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2021; 15:11782234211016977. [PMID: 34158798 PMCID: PMC8186110 DOI: 10.1177/11782234211016977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subset of breast cancer which is known to carry a poor prognosis because of lack of targets for hormonal therapy. Research efforts have focused in recent years on discovering biomarkers of management in TNBCs. KI-67 Labelling Index (LI) is a nuclear protein which has proven to play diagnostic and prognostic roles in many cancers. Materials and methods: We analysed the expression of KI-67 LI by immunohistochemistry in TNBC cases from the University hospital. This expression was cross-checked against clinical-pathological criteria of TNBC patients and against Vimentin expression in TNBC patients with significant KI-67 expression. Results: KI-67 LI was significantly expressed in the majority of TNBC cases. This expression was significantly correlated with lymph node metastases, tumour invasion, high tumour nuclear grade, clinical stage, adverse survival outcome, and failure to achieve pathological complete response. TNBCs’ KI-67 LI expression was also correlated with Vimentin expression, the mesenchymal chief marker of the EMT phenomenon. Conclusion: Collectively, our study presents a strong argument for the use of KI-67 LI as a biomarker of aggressive, metastatic TNBC disease with poor outcome. This study, along with mounting evidence in the scientific literature, presents a case for the use of this nuclear protein in diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of patients with this difficult diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Arafah
- Department of Pathology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abderrahman Ouban
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Z Ameer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ko Jin Quek
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang L, Liu Z, Zhang W, Zhang A, Qu P. PD-1 Coexpression Gene Analysis and the Regulatory Network in Endometrial Cancer Based on Bioinformatics Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:9923434. [PMID: 34124265 PMCID: PMC8172290 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9923434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Gynecological malignancies are tumors of the female reproductive system, mainly cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer. Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological malignant tumor in developed countries. The aim of this study was to construct a network of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) coexpressed genes through bioinformatics analysis and screen the potential biomarkers of PD-1 in endometrial cancer. In addition, genes and pathways involved in PD-1 and modulating tumor immune status were identified. We select the EC transcriptomic dataset in TCGA to retrieve gene sets on the cBioPortal platform, and the PD-1 coexpressed genes were obtained on the platform. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of coexpressed genes was performed using the DAVID database. The target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.7.1 software, and the hub genes were then screened. A total of 976 coexpression genes were obtained. The enrichment analysis showed that PD-1 coexpressed genes were significantly enriched in overall components of the cell structure, the interaction of cytokines with cytokine receptors, chemokine signaling pathways, and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). Ten hub genes were obtained by node degree analysis. CD3E gene is involved in the prognosis and immune process of EC, and the expression level is related to PD-1 (Pearson correlation coefficient is 0.82, P < 0.01). Patients with low CD3E gene expression in EC have a poor prognosis. The coexpression hub genes of PD-1 are related to immunity, in which CD3E is a prognostic marker that is involved in the PD-1/PD-L1-induced tumor immune escape. This study provides a new area to study the mechanism of PD-1/PD-L1 in EC and the precise treatment with targeted drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Wang
- Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Artificial Cell, China
- Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center of Public Health Ministry, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Chifeng Municipal Hospital, Chifeng Clinical Medical School of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Chifeng, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin, China
| | - Aihua Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Artificial Cell, China
| | - Pengpeng Qu
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Therapeutic Silencing of BCL-2 Using NK Cell-Derived Exosomes as a Novel Therapeutic Approach in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102397. [PMID: 34063475 PMCID: PMC8156181 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Overexpression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL-2 is correlated with estrogen receptor (ER) expression in breast cancer and plays an important role for disease pathophysiology. Here, we conceptualized a novel treatment strategy by targeting ER+ breast cancer with NK cell-derived exosomes used as a carrier for BCL-2 targeted siRNAs. With this new approach, we successfully enhanced killing ability of NK cell derived exosomes by silencing of BCL-2 overexpression. Abstract Overexpression of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 is frequently observed in multiple malignancies, including about 85% of patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. Besides being studied as a prognostic marker, BCL-2 is investigated as a therapeutic target in ER+ breast cancer. Here, we introduce a new exosome-based strategy to target BCL-2 using genetically modified natural killer (NK) cells. The NK cell line NK92MI was lentivirally transduced to express and load BCL-2 siRNAs (siBCL-2) into exosomes (NKExos) and then evaluated for its potential to treat ER+ breast cancer. Transfected NK92MI cells produced substantial levels of BCL-2 siRNAs, without substantially affecting NK cell viability or effector function and led to loading of siBCL-2 in NKExos. Remarkably, targeting BCL-2 via siBCL-2 NKExos led to enhanced intrinsic apoptosis in breast cancer cells, without affecting non-malignant cells. Together, our prototypical results for BCL-2 in breast cancer provide proof of concept for a novel strategy to utilize NKExos as a natural delivery vector for siRNA targeting of oncogenes.
Collapse
|
50
|
Ahn R, Ursini-Siegel J. Clinical Potential of Kinase Inhibitors in Combination with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for the Treatment of Solid Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052608. [PMID: 33807608 PMCID: PMC7961781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic kinases contribute to immunosuppression and modulate the tumor microenvironment in solid tumors. Increasing evidence supports the fundamental role of oncogenic kinase signaling networks in coordinating immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. This has led to numerous studies examining the efficacy of kinase inhibitors in inducing anti-tumor immune responses by increasing tumor immunogenicity. Kinase inhibitors are the second most common FDA-approved group of drugs that are deployed for cancer treatment. With few exceptions, they inevitably lead to intrinsic and/or acquired resistance, particularly in patients with metastatic disease when used as a monotherapy. On the other hand, cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, have revolutionized cancer treatment for malignancies such as melanoma and lung cancer. However, key hurdles remain to successfully incorporate such therapies in the treatment of other solid cancers. Here, we review the recent literature on oncogenic kinases that regulate tumor immunogenicity, immune suppression, and anti-tumor immunity. Furthermore, we discuss current efforts in clinical trials that combine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors to treat breast cancer and other solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuhjin Ahn
- Department of Biological Engineering, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
| | - Josie Ursini-Siegel
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, 546 Pine Avenue West, Montréal, QC H2W 1S6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +514-340-8222 (ext. 26557); Fax: +514-340-7502
| |
Collapse
|