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Li L, Li ZZ, Pan LX, Su JY, Huang S, Ma L, Zhong JH. Adjuvant Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Curative Treatment: Several Unanswered Questions. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 12:525-533. [PMID: 38779519 PMCID: PMC11106350 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2024.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have a poor prognosis. Hepatectomy and local ablation are the main curative treatments for HCC. Nevertheless, the recurrence rate after hepatectomy or ablation is up to 70%, which seriously affects patient prognosis. Several adjuvant therapies have been explored to reduce postoperative recurrence. However, although a variety of adjuvant therapies have been shown to reduce the recurrence rate and improve overall survival, a standard consensus of national HCC guidelines for adjuvant treatment is lacking. Therefore, there are significant differences in the recommendations for adjuvant therapy for HCC between the Eastern and Western guidelines. A variety of adjuvant treatment methods, such as antiviral therapy, transarterial chemoembolization or traditional Chinese medicine, are recommended by the Chinese HCC guidelines. However, Western guidelines make few recommendations other than antiviral therapy. Adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors are recommended only in the recently updated American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases guidelines. This review summarized the existing adjuvant therapy options after curative hepatectomy or ablation and discusses several important dilemmas of adjuvant treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Li
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Emergency Department, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Li
- Pathology Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Li-Xin Pan
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jia-Yong Su
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Shan Huang
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jian-Hong Zhong
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Chen W, Hu Z, Li G, Zhang L, Li T. The State of Systematic Therapies in Clinic for Hepatobiliary Cancers. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:629-649. [PMID: 38559555 PMCID: PMC10981875 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s454666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatobiliary cancer (HBC) includes hepatocellular carcinoma and biliary tract carcinoma (cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder carcinoma), and its morbidity and mortality are significantly correlated with disease stage. Surgery is the cornerstone of curative therapy for early stage of HBC. However, a large proportion of patients with HBC are diagnosed with advanced stage and can only receive systemic treatment. According to the results of clinical trials, the first-line and second-line treatment programs are constantly updated with the improvement of therapeutic effectiveness. In order to improve the therapeutic effect, reduce the occurrence of drug resistance, and reduce the adverse reactions of patients, the treatment of HBC has gradually developed from single-agent therapy to combination. The traditional therapeutic philosophy proposed that patients with advanced HBC are only amenable to systematic therapies. With some encouraging clinical trial results, the treatment concept has been revolutionized, and patients with advanced HBC who receive novel systemic combination therapies with multi-modality treatment (including surgery, transplant, TACE, HAIC, RT) have significantly improved survival time. This review summarizes the treatment options and the latest clinical advances of HBC in each stage and discusses future direction, in order to inform the development of more effective treatments for HBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixun Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengnan Hu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ganxun Li
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, People’s Republic of China
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Pei YX, Su CG, Liao Z, Li WW, Wang ZX, Liu JL. Comparative effectiveness of several adjuvant therapies after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients with microvascular invasion. World J Gastrointest Surg 2024; 16:554-570. [PMID: 38463369 PMCID: PMC10921205 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v16.i2.554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), radical hepatectomy is commonly used as a curative treatment. However, postoperative recurrence significantly diminishes the overall survival (OS) of HCC patients, especially with microvascular invasion (MVI) as an independent high-risk factor for recurrence. While some studies suggest that postoperative adjuvant therapy may decrease the risk of recurrence following liver resection in HCC patients, the specific role of adjuvant therapies in those with MVI remains unclear. AIM To conduct a network meta-analysis (NMA) to evaluate the efficacy of various adjuvant therapies and determine the optimal adjuvant regimen. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science until April 6, 2023. Studies comparing different adjuvant therapies or comparing adjuvant therapy with hepatectomy alone were included. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals were used to combine data on recurrence free survival and OS in both pairwise meta-analyses and NMA. RESULTS Fourteen eligible trials (2268 patients) reporting five different therapies were included. In terms of reducing the risk of recurrence, radiotherapy (RT) [HR = 0.34 (0.23, 0.5); surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) = 97.7%] was found to be the most effective adjuvant therapy, followed by hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy [HR = 0.52 (0.35, 0.76); SUCRA = 65.1%]. Regarding OS improvement, RT [HR: 0.35 (0.2, 0.61); SUCRA = 93.1%] demonstrated the highest effectiveness, followed by sorafenib [HR = 0.48 (0.32, 0.69); SUCRA = 70.9%]. CONCLUSION Adjuvant therapy following hepatectomy may reduce the risk of recurrence and provide a survival benefit for HCC patients with MVI. RT appears to be the most effective adjuvant regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Xuan Pei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Chen-Guang Su
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zheng Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Wei-Wei Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zi-Xiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jin-Long Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
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Ye Y, Wang Y, Xu H, Yi F. Network meta-analysis of adjuvant treatments for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after curative resection. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:320. [PMID: 37730533 PMCID: PMC10510134 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02955-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The prevention of recurrence for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after curative resection is still a great challenge in clinical practice. There are numerous studies that trying to search for favorable strategies to decrease the recurrence and prolong life span for these patients, whereas no consensus is reached till now. Herein, we aim to compare the efficacy between different reported treatments by network meta-analysis(NMA). METHODS We searched Pubmed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library for abstracts and full-text articles published from database inception through February 2023. All of the random controlled trials(RCTs) were evaluated and collected as eligible studies. The primary outcome was the prevention of recurrence between different procedures. The second outcomes were one-year survival, three-year survival and five-year survival. RESULTS Thirty-two RCTs including 5783 patients were selected, and 12 treatments were classified. Most of the studies were high quality with low bias. Thirty-one studies including 5629 patients were recruited for recurrence analysis. The network meta-analysis showed benefits from transarterial chemoembolization(TACE) + portal vein chemotherapy(PVC)[OR, 2.84 (1.15,6.99)] and internal radiotherapy(IRT) [OR, 2.63 (1.41,4.91)] compared to non-adjuvant(NA) treatment when considering prevention of recurrence. Seventeen studies including 2047 patients were collected for one-year survival analysis. The network meta-analysis showed benefit from TACE[OR, 0.33 (0.14,0.75)] when considering one-year survival. Twenty-one studies including 2463 patients were collected for three-year survival analysis. The network meta-analysis showed TACE [OR, 0.51 (0.30,0.86)], IRT[OR, 0.41 (0.20,0.83)] and dendritic cell(DC) [OR, 0.09 (0.01,0.98)] were better than NA when considering three-year survival. Sixteen studies including 1915 patients were collected for five-year survival analysis. The network meta-analysis didn't show any benefit from different treatments when considering five-year survival. Other strategies including external radiotherapy(ERT), branched-chain amino acids(BCAA), hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy(HAIC), cytokine-induced killer(CIK), adoptive immunotherapy(AIT), Huaier, interferon(IFN), oral chemotherapy(OCT) and sorafenib(SOR) didn't show significant benefit regardless of prevention of recurrence or short-, long- time survival. CONCLUSION This NMA found that TACE + PVC and IRT were considered as the procedures to decrease HCC recurrence rate. TACE, IRT and DC were preferred when considering the extending of life span for post-operative patients with HCC. Large scale of RCTs are needed to verify it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Ye
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China
- JiangXi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China
| | - Haoqian Xu
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China
- JiangXi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China
| | - Fengming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China.
- JiangXi Key Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Cancer Research, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. of China.
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Park CR, Bae HR, Lee GY, Son CG, Cho JH, Cho CK, Lee NH. Feasibility of combination of Gun-Chil-Jung and cytokine-induced killer cells-based immunotherapy for terminal hepatocellular carcinoma patient: a case report. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1203379. [PMID: 37719842 PMCID: PMC10502300 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1203379] [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: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Terminal-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is inoperable and currently has no form of adjuvant therapy. This study examined the anticancer herbal extract Gun-Chil-Jung (GCJ) combined with cytokine-induced killer (CIK)-cell-based immunotherapy as a palliative therapy for terminal HCC. We report the case of an HCC patient with extended overall survival and improved symptoms and tumor marker levels following combination therapy with GCJ and CIK cell-based immunotherapy. Baseline Characteristics: From March to July 2020, a 57-year-old man who had been diagnosed with HCC underwent combination treatment with GCJ and CIK cell-based immunotherapy. By August 2021, he was prescribed GCJ. After treatment, the patient's condition was evaluated with respect to overall survival, tumor markers, symptoms, abdominal computed tomography findings, chest x-ray results, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) grade. Results: The patient's overall survival, tumor marker levels, ECOG grade, and symptoms, including ascites, lower limb edema, jaundice, pleural effusion, and fatigue, were largely alleviated. Conclusion: We expect that this combination therapy may be an option for palliative therapy of terminal HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Ran Park
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Ri Bae
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- East-West Cancer Center, Cheonan Korean Medical Hospital, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Young Lee
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hyo Cho
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong-Kwan Cho
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hun Lee
- Department of Hepatology and Hematology, Graduated School of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- East-West Cancer Center, Cheonan Korean Medical Hospital, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Nevola R, Delle Femine A, Rosato V, Kondili LA, Alfano M, Mastrocinque D, Imbriani S, Perillo P, Beccia D, Villani A, Ruocco R, Criscuolo L, La Montagna M, Russo A, Marrone A, Sasso FC, Marfella R, Rinaldi L, Esposito N, Barberis G, Claar E. Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Systemic Therapies in Loco-Regional Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Are We at the Dawn of a New Era? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112950. [PMID: 37296912 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite maximizing techniques and patient selection, liver resection and ablation for HCC are still associated with high rates of recurrence. To date, HCC is the only cancer with no proven adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy used in association to potentially curative treatment. Perioperative combination treatments are urgently needed to reduce recurrence rates and improve overall survival. Immunotherapy has demonstrated encouraging results in the setting of adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments for non-hepatic malignancies. Conclusive data are not yet available in the context of liver neoplasms. However, growing evidence suggests that immunotherapy, and in particular immune checkpoint inhibitors, could represent the cornerstone of an epochal change in the treatment of HCC, improving recurrence rates and overall survival through combination treatments. Furthermore, the identification of predictive biomarkers of treatment response could drive the management of HCC into the era of a precision medicine. The purpose of this review is to analyze the state of the art in the setting of adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies for HCC in association with loco-regional treatments in patients not eligible for liver transplantation and to hypothesize future scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Nevola
- Liver Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Augusto Delle Femine
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Valerio Rosato
- Liver Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Maria Alfano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Simona Imbriani
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Beccia
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Villani
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Rachele Ruocco
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Livio Criscuolo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco La Montagna
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Russo
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Aldo Marrone
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Marfella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Ernesto Claar
- Liver Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy
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Piccinelli S, Romee R, Shapiro RM. The natural killer cell immunotherapy platform: an overview of the landscape of clinical trials in liquid and solid tumors. Semin Hematol 2023; 60:42-51. [PMID: 37080710 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The translation of natural killer (NK) cells to the treatment of malignant disease has made significant progress in the last few decades. With a variety of available sources and improvements in both in vitro and in vivo NK cell expansion, the NK cell immunotherapy platform has come into its own. The enormous effort continues to further optimize this platform, including ways to enhance NK cell persistence, trafficking to the tumor microenvironment, and cytotoxicity. As this effort bears fruit, it is translated into a plethora of clinical trials in patients with advanced malignancies. The adoptive transfer of NK cells, either as a standalone therapy or in combination with other immunotherapies, has been applied for the treatment of both liquid and solid tumors, with numerous early-phase trials showing promising results. This review aims to summarize the key advantages of NK cell immunotherapy, highlight several of the current approaches being taken for its optimization, and give an overview of the landscape of clinical trials translating this platform into clinic.
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:1-120. [PMID: 37384024 PMCID: PMC10202234 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2022.11.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korean Liver Cancer Association (KLCA) and National Cancer Center (NCC) Korea
- Corresponding author: KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee (KPGRC) (Committee Chair: Joong-Won Park) Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, Korea Tel. +82-31-920-1605, Fax: +82-31-920-1520, E-mail:
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Chen W, Hu S, Liu Z, Sun Y, Wu J, Shen S, Peng Z. Adjuvant anti-PD-1 antibody for hepatocellular carcinoma with high recurrence risks after hepatectomy. Hepatol Int 2023; 17:406-416. [PMID: 36645648 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10478-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The clinical role of postoperative adjuvant therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. The purpose of our study was to explore the clinical value of postoperative adjuvant anti-programed cell death 1 antibody (PA-PD-1) on the prognosis of HCC patients with high relapse risks after surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data of consecutive HCC patients with high recurrence risks treated with liver resection at our center during January 2019 and March 2021 were prospectively collected. Baseline differences were balanced between HCC patients with (PA-PD-1 group) or without PA-PD-1 (non-PD-1 group) after hepatectomy by propensity-score matching (PSM). Between these two groups, we compared overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Independent prognostic risk factors for OS and RFS were confirmed by Cox regression analysis, and subgroup analysis was also performed. RESULTS 47 pairs of patients with or without PD-1 treatment after hepatectomy were matched. After PSM, the 1-year and 2-year RFS was 58.4% and 44.1% in the PA-PD-1 group, and 34.0% and 21.3% in the non-PD-1 group (p = 0.008). The OS at 1 year and 2 years was 91.2% and 91.2% in the PA-PD-1 group, compared with 85.1% and 61.7% in the non-PD-1 group (p = 0.024). Multivariable analyses demonstrated that PA-PD-1 was an independent protective predictor associated with RFS and OS. Through subgroup analysis, we concluded that HCC patients with portal venous tumor thrombus (PVTT) or tumor size ≥ 5 cm significantly benefited from PA-PD-1 therapy in RFS and OS. CONCLUSIONS Adjuvant anti-PD-1 antibody can effectively improve the survival outcomes of HCC patients with high relapse risks after hepatectomy in this prospective observational study. This finding should be confirmed by results of the ongoing phase 3 randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato- Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pancreaticobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shuifang Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelong Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yukun Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wu
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato- Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shunli Shen
- Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhenwei Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, NO.58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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10
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Guo B, Chen Q, Liu Z, Chen X, Zhu P. Adjuvant therapy following curative treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma: current dilemmas and prospects. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1098958. [PMID: 37139151 PMCID: PMC10149944 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1098958] [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: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Curative surgical treatments, mainly liver resection, are still one of the optimal options for patients with early-, mid-, and even progression-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the recurrence rate within 5 years after surgery is as high as 70%, especially in patients with high risk factors for recurrence, most of whom experience early recurrence within 2 years. Effective adjuvant therapy may improve prognosis, previous studies found that adjuvant transarterial chemoembolization, antiviral, and traditional Chinese medicine et al. were helpful in preventing HCC recurrence. Nevertheless, due to controversial results or lack of high-level evidence, there is no standardized postoperative management protocol worldwide at present. Continued exploration of effective postoperative adjuvant treatments to improve surgical prognosis is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Guo
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Peng Zhu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Peng Zhu,
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Yang CK, Huang CH, Hu CH, Fang JH, Chen TC, Lin YC, Lin CY. Immunophenotype and antitumor activity of cytokine-induced killer cells from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280023. [PMID: 36598909 PMCID: PMC9812323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells are heterogeneous lymphocytes from human peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMCs) co-cultured with several cytokines. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional characteristics and anticancer ability of CIK cells from hepatocarcinoma (HCC) patients. METHODS CIK cells were activated ex-vivo and expanded from PBMCs from HCC patients. The immunophenotype and the ex-vivo killing ability of CIK cells were evaluated. Human CIK cells were intravenously injected into NOD/SCID mice to evaluate the in vivo anticancer ability. RESULTS More than 70% of CIK cells were CD3+CD8+, and 15%-30% were CD3+CD56+. These cells expressed an increased number of activated natural killer (NK) receptors, such as DNAM1 and NKG2D, and expressed low-immune checkpoint molecules, including PD-1, CTLA-4, and LAG-3. Among the chemokine receptors expressed by CIKs, CXCR3 and CD62L were elevated in CD8+ T cells, representing the trafficking ability to inflamed tumor sites. CIK cells possess the ex-vivo anticancer activity to different cell lines. To demonstrate in vivo antitumor ability, human CIK cells could significantly suppress the tumor of J7 bearing NOD/SCID mice. Furthermore, human immune cells could be detected in the peripheral blood and on the tumors after CIK injection. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that CIK cells from HCC patients possess cytotoxic properties, and express increased levels of effector NK receptors and chemokine molecules and lower levels of suppressive checkpoint receptors. CIK cells can suppress human HCC ex-vivo and in vivo. Future clinical trials of human CIK cell therapy for HCC are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Keng Yang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hao Huang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsun Hu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jian-He Fang
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tse-Ching Chen
- Department of Pathology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Chang Lin
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Chun-Yen Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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12
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Nevarez NM, Chang GY, Yopp AC. An Overview of Clinical Trials in the Treatment of Resectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2023; 32:101-117. [PMID: 36410911 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Partial hepatectomy, one of a few curative therapeutic modalities, is plagued by high recurrence rate of up to 70% at 5 years. Throughout the past 3 decades, many clinical trials have attempted to improve HCC recurrence rate following partial hepatectomy using adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment modalities such as antiviral therapy, brachytherapy, systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, transarterial chemoembolization and radioembolization, and radiotherapy. The goal of this review is to discuss the clinical trials pertaining to resectable HCC including surgical technique considerations, adjuvant, and neoadjuvant treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Nevarez
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| | - Gloria Y Chang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Adam C Yopp
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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13
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Korean J Radiol 2022; 23:1126-1240. [PMID: 36447411 PMCID: PMC9747269 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2022.0822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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14
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Ohira M, Kobayashi T, Tanaka Y, Imaoka Y, Sato K, Imaoka K, Nakano R, Doskali M, Piao J, Nakamura M, Yoshida T, Ichinohe T, Kawano R, Yoshimura K, Ueda K, Tamura N, Hirata T, Imamura M, Aikata H, Tanimine N, Kuroda S, Tahara H, Ide K, Ohdan H. Adoptive immunotherapy with natural killer cells from peripheral blood CD34 + stem cells to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after curative hepatectomy: a study protocol for an open-label, single-arm phase I study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064526. [PMID: 36410831 PMCID: PMC9680173 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major clinical problem as more than half of these cases recur after radical resection. Natural killer (NK) cells are at the forefront of the innate immune system and attack microcarcinomas and circulating tumour cells. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and toxicity of peripheral blood CD34+ stem cell-derived NK cell infusion after radical hepatectomy for HCC. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is an open-label, single-arm, single-centre phase I study. Patients who have undergone initial hepatectomy for HCC with three or more risk factors for recurrence (≥10 ng/mL of Alpha fetoprotein (AFP), ≥360 mAU/mL of PIVKA-II, multiple tumours and ≥3 peripheral blood circulating tumour cells) will be enrolled and be treated with three peripheral blood CD34+ stem cell-derived NK cell infusions every 3 months. The primary endpoint will be safety assessment including the type and severity of adverse events, frequency of occurrence and duration of occurrence. The secondary endpoints will include survival, effect of immune response and clinical laboratory test results. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval of the trial was obtained from the Certified Committee for Regenerative Medicine Hiroshima University in Japan. The trial results will be shared with the scientific community at international conferences and by publication in a peer-reviewed journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER jRCTb060200020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yuka Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yuki Imaoka
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Koki Sato
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Koki Imaoka
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Nakano
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Marlen Doskali
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Jinlian Piao
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mayuna Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tetsumi Yoshida
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Ichinohe
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Reo Kawano
- Clinical Research Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yoshimura
- Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Keiko Ueda
- Clinical Research Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Natsuko Tamura
- Clinical Research Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Taizo Hirata
- Clinical Research Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoki Tanimine
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shintaro Kuroda
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tahara
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kentaro Ide
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hideki Ohdan
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Clinical Research Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
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Cassese G, Han HS, Lee B, Lee HW, Cho JY, Panaro F, Troisi RI. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: A promising therapeutic option for advanced disease. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1862-1874. [PMID: 36340753 PMCID: PMC9627435 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i10.1862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and its incidence continues to increase. Despite improvements in both medical and surgical therapies, HCC remains associated with poor outcomes due to its high rates of recurrence and mortality. Approximately 50% of patients require systemic therapies that traditionally consist of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Recently, however, immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized HCC management, providing new therapeutic options. Despite these major advances, the different factors involved in poor clinical responses and molecular pathways leading to resistance following use of these therapies remain unclear. Alternative strategies, such as adoptive T cell transfer, vaccination, and virotherapy, are currently under evaluation. Combinations of immunotherapies with other systemic or local treatments are also being investigated and may be the most promising opportunities for HCC treatment. The aim of this review is to provide updated information on currently available immunotherapies for HCC as well as future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Cassese
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Division of Minimally Invasive and Robotic HPB Surgery, Federico II University, Naples 80131, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, South Korea
| | - Ho-Seong Han
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, South Korea
| | - Boram Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, South Korea
| | - Hae Won Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, South Korea
| | - Jai Young Cho
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, South Korea
| | - Fabrizio Panaro
- Department of Surgery, Division of HBP Surgery and Transplantation, Montpellier University Hospital - School of Medicine, Montpellier 34000, France
| | - Roberto Ivan Troisi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Division of Minimally Invasive and Robotic HPB Surgery, Federico II University, Naples 80131, Italy
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16
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2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:583-705. [PMID: 36263666 PMCID: PMC9597235 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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17
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Choi JH, Nam GH, Hong JM, Cho IR, Paik WH, Ryu JK, Kim YT, Lee SH. Cytokine-Induced Killer Cell Immunotherapy Combined With Gemcitabine Reduces Systemic Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer: An Analysis Using Preclinical Adjuvant Therapy-Mimicking Pancreatic Cancer Xenograft Model. Pancreas 2022; 51:1251-1257. [PMID: 37078953 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000002176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and safety of cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell therapy in pancreatic cancer. METHODS An orthotopic murine model of pancreatic cancer and adjuvant therapy-mimicking xenograft murine model that underwent splenectomy was created. Eighty mice were randomized into four groups: the control, gemcitabine alone, CIK alone, and CIK with gemcitabine groups. The tumor growth was monitored using bioluminescence imaging once weekly. RESULTS In the orthotopic murine model, the treatment groups showed a significantly longer survival than the control group (median: not reached vs 125.0 days; 95% confidence interval, 119.87-130.13; P = 0.04); however, the overall survival did not differ significantly among the treatment groups (P = 0.779). The metastatic recurrence rate and overall survival were also not significantly different among the groups in the adjuvant therapy-mimicking xenograft murine model (P = 0.497). However, the CIK and gemcitabine combination suppressed the metastatic recurrence effectively, with recurrence-free survival being significantly longer in the CIK with gemcitabine group than in the control group (median, 54 days; 95% confidence interval, 25.00-102.00; P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS The combination of CIK and gemcitabine suppressed systemic metastatic recurrence, with promising efficacy and good tolerability in an adjuvant setting of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ho Choi
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun He Nam
- GC CELL Corp., Yongin-si, Republic of Korea
| | | | - In Rae Cho
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Hyun Paik
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Kon Ryu
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Tae Kim
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hyub Lee
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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18
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Cai J, Zhao J, Liu D, Xie H, Qi H, Ma J, Sun Z, Zhao H. Efficacy and Safety of Central Memory T Cells Combined With Adjuvant Therapy to Prevent Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Microvascular Invasion: A Pilot Study. Front Oncol 2021; 11:781029. [PMID: 34926296 PMCID: PMC8679661 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.781029] [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: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Postoperative adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) following curative hepatectomy has been reported to improve the clinical outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with microvascular invasion (MVI), but more endeavors are required to achieve greater clinical benefit. Central memory T-cell (Tcm) self-transfusion has shown superior antitumor activity in several preclinical studies; however, clinical studies are rare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical benefit and safety of combination treatment with Tcm self-transfusion and TACE as adjuvant treatment in HCC patients with MVI after curative hepatectomy. Methods From October 2016 to September 2018, primary HCC patients with histologically confirmed MVI who underwent curative hepatectomy at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences were recruited for this study. The patients were divided into a Tcm group (combined Tcm self-transfusion with TACE treatment) or a control group (TACE treatment alone) according to their willingness. The recurrence-free survival (RFS), quality-of-life (QOL) score, and adverse events of each patient were recorded within 2 years. Results A total of 52 patients were enrolled, and 48 were eligible for the final data analysis. The median follow-up time was 20.5 months (95% CI: 17.05–22.55 months). The median RFS time was 9.5 months in the control group; the cutoff date was not reached in the Tcm group (when the follow-up duration was 12 months, p = 0.049, HR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.16–0.99). Compared with the control group, 1- and 2-year RFS rates were higher in the Tcm group (72.0% vs. 46.4% and 58.18% vs. 39.14%, respectively). Multivariate analysis did not indicate that Tcm treatment was an independent prognostic factor associated with HCC recurrence (p = 0.107, HR = 2.312; 95% CI: 0.835–6.400), which might be due to the small sample size of this study. Nevertheless, Tcm treatment effectively improved a reduced QOL due to HCC and liver function injury. Finally, the safety profile of Tcm treatment in this study was good, without any serious adverse events. Conclusions This pilot study showed that Tcm self-transfusion combined with TACE treatment might be a beneficial adjuvant therapy with good safety for primary HCC patients with MVI after curative hepatectomy. Trial registration number NCT03575806
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianjun Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Defang Liu
- Department of New Drug Registration, Hebei Immune Cell Application Engineering Research Center/Baoding Newish Technology Co., LTD/Newish Technology (Beijing) Co., LTD, Beijing, China
| | - Huangfan Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hailong Qi
- Department of New Drug Registration, Hebei Immune Cell Application Engineering Research Center/Baoding Newish Technology Co., LTD/Newish Technology (Beijing) Co., LTD, Beijing, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Junfan Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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19
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Khan AA, Liu ZK, Xu X. Recent advances in immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2021; 20:511-520. [PMID: 34344612 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is challenging as most patients are diagnosed at advanced stage with underlying chronic liver conditions. Conventional systemic chemotherapy has failed in HCC, and the clinical efficacy of FDA-approved molecular targeted agents such as sorafenib and lenvatinib remains unsatisfactory. DATA SOURCES Literature search was conducted in PubMed for relevant articles published before January 2021. The search aimed to identify recent developments in immune-based treatment approaches for HCC. Information of clinical trials was obtained from https://clinicaltrials.gov/. RESULTS Two immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), nivolumab and pembrolizumab were approved as monotherapies, which has revolutionized HCC treatment. Besides, combination ICIs have also got accelerated FDA approval recently. Immune-based therapies have challenged targeted drugs owing to their safety, tolerability, and survival benefits. In addition to the significant success in ICIs, other immunotherapeutic strategies such as cancer vaccine, chimeric antigen receptor T-cells, natural killer cells, cytokines, and combination therapy, have also shown promising outcomes in clinical trials. Various diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers have been identified which can help in clinical decision making when starting treatment with ICIs. CONCLUSIONS Immunotherapy has emerged as one of the mainstream treatment modalities for advanced HCC in recent years. However, challenges such as low response rate and acquired resistance in previously respondent patients still exist. Further research is needed to understand the unique resistance mechanism to immunotherapy and to discover more predictive biomarkers to guide clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abid Ali Khan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Zhi-Kun Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
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20
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Brown ZJ, Hewitt DB, Pawlik TM. Combination therapies plus transarterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma: a snapshot of clinical trial progress. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 31:379-391. [PMID: 34788184 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2008355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Unfortunately, some hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients do not qualify for curative-intent treatments such as surgical resection or transplantation. Hence, locoregional treatments such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) remain instrumental in the treatment of HCC. Systemic therapy has improved over the past decade with the introduction of combination atezolizumab and bevacizumab as the new standard of care for advanced disease. These new therapies are currently under investigation in combination with TACE. AREA COVERED Combination therapies with TACE including systemic therapies, locoregional therapies, and immunotherapies are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION There has been limited progress in the management of advanced and intermediate HCC. Recent advances in the management of advanced disease with systemic therapy could be beneficial in combination with TACE for the treatment of intermediate stage disease. Immune based therapies are potentially beneficial in combination with TACE because TACE may produce increased antigen release and immune recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Brown
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - D Brock Hewitt
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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21
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El-Kadiry AEH, Rafei M, Shammaa R. Cell Therapy: Types, Regulation, and Clinical Benefits. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:756029. [PMID: 34881261 PMCID: PMC8645794 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.756029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy practices date back to the 19th century and continue to expand on investigational and investment grounds. Cell therapy includes stem cell- and non-stem cell-based, unicellular and multicellular therapies, with different immunophenotypic profiles, isolation techniques, mechanisms of action, and regulatory levels. Following the steps of their predecessor cell therapies that have become established or commercialized, investigational and premarket approval-exempt cell therapies continue to provide patients with promising therapeutic benefits in different disease areas. In this review article, we delineate the vast types of cell therapy, including stem cell-based and non-stem cell-based cell therapies, and create the first-in-literature compilation of the different "multicellular" therapies used in clinical settings. Besides providing the nuts and bolts of FDA policies regulating their use, we discuss the benefits of cell therapies reported in 3 therapeutic areas-regenerative medicine, immune diseases, and cancer. Finally, we contemplate the recent attention shift toward combined therapy approaches, highlighting the factors that render multicellular therapies a more attractive option than their unicellular counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abed El-Hakim El-Kadiry
- Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Montreal Heart Institute, Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Moutih Rafei
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Riam Shammaa
- Canadian Centre for Regenerative Therapy, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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22
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Bo XW, Sun LP, Yu SY, Xu HX. Thermal ablation and immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Recent advances and future directions. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1397-1411. [PMID: 34721773 PMCID: PMC8529921 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i10.1397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of most common cancers that cause death in the world. Thermal ablation (TA) is an important alternative treatment method for HCC patients who are not appropriate for surgery or liver transplantation. Particularly for small and early HCCs, TA can be considered as the first-line curative treatment. However, local and distant recurrence rates are still high even though the TA equipment and technology develop rapidly. Immunotherapy is a novel systemic treatment method to enhance the anti-tumor immune response of HCC patients, which has the potential to reduce the tumor recurrence and metastasis. The combination of local TA and systemic immunotherapy for HCCs may be an ideal treatment for enhancing the efficacy of TA and controlling the recurrence. Herein we summarize the latest progress in TA, immunotherapy, and their combination for the treatment of patients with HCC and discuss the limitations and future research directions of the combined therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wan Bo
- Center of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tumor, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital; Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment; National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Li-Ping Sun
- Center of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tumor, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital; Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment; National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Song-Yuan Yu
- Center of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tumor, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital; Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment; National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hui-Xiong Xu
- Center of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tumor, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital; Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment; National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
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23
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Liu Y, Wang Y, Guo X, He Y, Zhou J, Lv Q, Huang X, Li X. Comparative Effectiveness of Adjuvant Treatment for Resected Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:709278. [PMID: 34540675 PMCID: PMC8445365 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.709278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is controversial whether adjuvant treatment could be recommended for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative hepatectomy. Thus, we performed a network meta-analysis (NMA) to assess adjuvant treatment’s benefit and determine the optimal adjuvant regimen. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing adjuvant therapy versus no active treatment after curative hepatectomy among patients with HCC. Pooled data on recurrence and overall survival (OS) were analyzed within pairwise meta-analysis and NMA. Results Twenty-three eligible trials (3,940 patients) reporting eight treatments were included. The direct meta-analysis showed that adjuvant therapy prevented the recurrence (OR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.55, 0.77; P = 0.177; I2 = 21.7%) and contributed to OS (HR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.54, 0.73; P = 0.087; I2 = 31.1%) in comparison to the observation. In the NMA, internal radiotherapy (IRT; OR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.77; SUCRA = 87.7%) followed by hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy (HAIC; OR = 0.6; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.97; SUCRA = 77.8%), and HAIC (HR = 0.44; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.87; SUCRA = 82.6%) followed by IRT (HR 0.54; 95% CI:0.36, 0.81; SUCRA = 69.7%) were ranked superior to other treatments in terms of preventing recurrence and providing survival benefit, respectively. Conclusions The addition of adjuvant therapy lowers the risk of recurrence and provide survival benefit after surgical resection for HCC. HAIC and IRT are likely to be the two most effective adjuvant regimens. Systematic Review Registration https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2020-11-0039/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuzhu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinkun Guo
- Deparment of Hepatic Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yifeng He
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianzhou Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowu Huang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Hormonal (Im)Balance and Reproductive System’s Disorders in Transplant Recipients—A Review. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10040271. [PMID: 33810620 PMCID: PMC8066254 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Nowadays, the average human life expectancy is increasing. This applies to both healthy and chronically ill people. It is possible due to improvements in technology, living conditions, and better, more accessible medical care. As the number of patients with end-stage organ failure increases and due to great progress in modern transplantology, every year the number of transplantations rises worldwide. Organ transplantation is not only an ultimate form of therapy but also, especially nowadays, a life-saving procedure. Patients who have undergone transplantation need to face the problem of long-term immunosuppressive therapy on a daily basis, which prolongs the proper function of the grafted organ and prevents the development of graft-versus-host disease. On the other hand, numerous side effects are associated with the usage of these medicaments, among these are disturbances in sex-related hormones, therefore influencing fertility. Abstract The rising need for treatment of end stage of organ failure results in an increased number of graft recipients yearly. The most commonly transplanted organs are kidney, heart, liver, bone marrow, lung and skin. The procedure of transplantation saves and prolongs the lives of chronically ill patients or at least improves the quality. However, following transplantation recipients must take immunosuppressive drugs on a daily basis. Usually, the immunosuppressive therapy comprises two or three drugs from different groups, as the mechanism of their action varies. Although the benefits of intake of immunosuppressants is undeniable, numerous side effects are associated with them. To different extents, they are neurotoxic, nephrotoxic and may influence the function of the reproductive system. Nowadays, when infertility is an urgent problem even among healthy pairs, transplant recipients face the problem of disturbance in the hypothalamic−pituitary axis. This review will provide an overview of the most common disturbances among the concentration of sex-related hormones in recipients of both sexes at different ages, including sexually immature children, adults of reproductive age as well as elderly women and men. We have also focused on the numerous side effects of immunosuppressive therapy regarding function and morphology of reproductive organs both in males and females. The current review also presents the regimen of immunosuppressive therapy and time since transplantation.
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25
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Zhang W, Zhang B, Chen XP. Adjuvant treatment strategy after curative resection for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Med 2021; 15:155-169. [PMID: 33754281 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0848-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic resection represents the first-line treatment for patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the 5-year recurrence rates of HCC after surgery have been reported to range from 50% to 70%. In this review, we evaluated the available evidence for the efficiency of adjuvant treatments to prevent HCC recurrence after curative liver resection. Antiviral therapy has potential advantages in terms of reducing the recurrence rate and improving the overall survival (OS) and/or disease-free survival of patients with hepatitis-related HCC. Postoperative adjuvant transarterial chemoembolization can significantly reduce the intrahepatic recurrence rate and improve OS, especially for patients with a high risk of recurrence. The efficacy of molecular targeted drugs as an adjuvant therapy deserves further study. Adjuvant adoptive immunotherapy can significantly improve the clinical prognosis in the early stage. Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies evaluating adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors are ongoing, and the results are highly expected. Adjuvant hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy might be beneficial in patients with vascular invasion. Huaier granule, a traditional Chinese medicine, has been proved to be effective in prolonging the recurrence-free survival and reducing extrahepatic recurrence. The efficiency of other adjuvant treatments needs to be further confirmed by large RCT studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Xiao-Ping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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26
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy with poor prognosis. More than 80% of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and most patients with HCC also have liver cirrhosis that complicates cancer management. No targeted treatment options currently exist outside genomics-based clinical trials. Multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) such as sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, and regorafenib have been used to treat advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (aHCC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors including nivolumab and pembrolizumab have shown survival benefit. More recently, atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab resulted in improved overall survival and progression-free survival, compared with sorafenib in patients with aHCC in the first-line setting. The combination of nivolumab with ipilimumab as an alternative in the treatment of patients treated with sorafenib has inspired various combination studies of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Currently, ongoing studies of systemic therapy consist of various immune-based combination therapies. Finally, there is no established adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy although a few early phase studies show promising results. In this chapter, we summarize current approaches of systemic treatment in patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarik Demir
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sunyoung S Lee
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ahmed O Kaseb
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.
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Schipilliti FM, Garajová I, Rovesti G, Balsano R, Piacentini F, Dominici M, Gelsomino F. The Growing Skyline of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment: A Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:43. [PMID: 33429973 PMCID: PMC7827379 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the main type of liver cancer. In the majority of cases, HCC is diagnosed at the advanced stage, leading to poor prognosis. In recent years, many efforts have been devoted to investigating potential new and more effective drugs and, indeed, the treatment armamentarium for advanced HCC has broadened tremendously, with targeted- and immune-therapies, and probably the combination of both, playing pivotal roles. Together with new established knowledge, many issues are emerging, with the role of neoadjuvant/adjuvant settings, the definition of the best transitioning time from loco-regional treatments to systemic therapy, the identification of potential predictive biomarkers, and radiomics being just some of the topics that will have to be further explored in the next future. Clearly, the current COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the management of HCC patients and some considerations about this topic will be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Matilde Schipilliti
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.R.); (F.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Ingrid Garajová
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Giulia Rovesti
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.R.); (F.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Rita Balsano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Federico Piacentini
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.R.); (F.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.R.); (F.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Fabio Gelsomino
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.R.); (F.P.); (M.D.)
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28
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Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A 2021 Update. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102859. [PMID: 33020428 PMCID: PMC7600093 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of one of the most frequent liver cancers and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Current treatment options such as surgery, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, liver transplantation, and radiofrequency ablation will benefit only a very small percentage of patients. Immunotherapy is a novel treatment approach representing an effective and promising option against several types of cancer. The aim of our study is to present the currently ongoing clinical trials and to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapy in HCC. In this paper, we demonstrate that combination of different immunotherapies or immunotherapy with other modalities results in better overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) compared to single immunotherapy agent. Another objective of this paper is to demonstrate and highlight the importance of tumor microenvironment as a predictive and prognostic marker and its clinical implications in immunotherapy response.
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29
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Zhang L, Ding J, Li HY, Wang ZH, Wu J. Immunotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, where are we? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188441. [PMID: 33007432 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A couple of molecular-targeting medications, such as Lenvatinib, are available for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in addition to Sorafenib in an advanced stage. Approval for the use of immune check-point inhibitors, such as Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab has shifted the paradigm of current HCC treatment, and the monotherapy or in combination with Lenvatinib or Sorafenib has significantly extended overall survival or progression-free survival in a large portion of patients. A combination of programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) inhibitor Atezolizumab with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, Bevacizumab, has recently achieved promising outcome in unresectable HCC patients. Other immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has achieved an evolutional success in hematologic malignancies, and has extended its use in deadly solid tumors, such as HCC. Although there exist various barriers, novel approaches are developed to move potential adoptive T cell therapy strategies, including cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), T cell receptor (TCR) T cells, CAR-T cells, to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Hui-Yan Li
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhong-Hua Wang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China.
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30
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Zhu XD, Li KS, Sun HC. Adjuvant therapies after curative treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma: Current status and prospects. Genes Dis 2020; 7:359-369. [PMID: 32884990 PMCID: PMC7452398 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor recurrence rate after surgery or ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is as high as 70%. However, there are no widely accepted adjuvant therapies; therefore, no treatment has been recommended by guidelines from the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease or the European Association for the Study of the Liver. All the registered trials failed to find any treatment to prolong recurrence-free survival, which is the primary outcome in most studies, including sorafenib. Some investigator-initiated studies revealed that anti-hepatitis B virus agents, interferon-α, transcatheter chemoembolization, chemokine-induced killer cells, and other treatments prolonged patient recurrence-free survival or overall survival after curative therapies. In this review, we summarize the current status of adjuvant treatments for HCC and explain the challenges associated with designing a clinical trial for adjuvant therapy. Promising new treatments being used as adjuvant therapy, especially anti-PD-1 antibodies, are also discussed.
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Key Words
- Adjuvant therapy
- Anti-PD-1 antibody
- CIK, chemokine-induced killer cells
- CR, complete response
- Clinical trial
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- ICI, immune checkpoint inhibitor
- Molecular targeted therapy
- ORR, objective response rate
- OS, overall survival
- PD-1, program death-1
- PD-L1, program death-1 ligand
- PR, partial response
- RCT, randomized clinical trial
- RECIST, Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors
- RFS, recurrence-free survival
- Recurrence-free survival
- TACE, transcatheter chemoembolization
- TKI, tyrosine kinase inhibitor
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Zhu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Kang-Shuai Li
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hui-Chuan Sun
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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31
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Taniguchi M, Mizuno S, Yoshikawa T, Fujinami N, Sugimoto M, Kobayashi S, Takahashi S, Konishi M, Gotohda N, Nakatsura T. Peptide vaccine as an adjuvant therapy for glypican-3-positive hepatocellular carcinoma induces peptide-specific CTLs and improves long prognosis. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:2747-2759. [PMID: 32449239 PMCID: PMC7419030 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no established postoperative adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and improvement of patient prognosis has been limited. We conducted long‐term monitoring of patients within a phase II trial that targeted a cancer antigen, glypican‐3 (GPC3), specifically expressed in HCC. We sought to determine if the GPC3 peptide vaccine was an effective adjuvant therapy by monitoring disease‐free survival and overall survival. We also tracked GPC3 immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, CTL induction, and postoperative plasma GPC3 for a patient group that was administered the vaccine (n = 35) and an unvaccinated patient group that underwent surgery only (n = 33). The 1‐y recurrence rate after surgery was reduced by approximately 15%, and the 5‐y and 8‐y survival rates were improved by approximately 10% and 30%, respectively, in the vaccinated group compared with the unvaccinated group. Patients who were positive for GPC3 IHC staining were more likely to have induced CTLs, and 60% survived beyond 5 y. Vaccine efficacy had a positive relationship with plasma concentration of GPC3; high concentrations increased the 5‐y survival rate to 75%. We thus expect GPC3 vaccination in patients with HCC, who are positive for GPC3 IHC staining and/or plasma GPC3 to induce CTL and have significantly improved long‐term prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatake Taniguchi
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwa, Japan.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan.,Department of Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shoichi Mizuno
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Yoshikawa
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Norihiro Fujinami
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Motokazu Sugimoto
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Shin Kobayashi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Takahashi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Masaru Konishi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Naoto Gotohda
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Nakatsura
- Division of Cancer Immunotherapy, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwa, Japan.,Department of Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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32
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Askari E, Seyfoori A, Amereh M, Gharaie SS, Ghazali HS, Ghazali ZS, Khunjush B, Akbari M. Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels for Local Post-Surgical Drug Delivery. Gels 2020; 6:E14. [PMID: 32397180 PMCID: PMC7345431 DOI: 10.3390/gels6020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, surgical operations, followed by systemic drug delivery, are the prevailing treatment modality for most diseases, including cancers and trauma-based injuries. Although effective to some extent, the side effects of surgery include inflammation, pain, a lower rate of tissue regeneration, disease recurrence, and the non-specific toxicity of chemotherapies, which remain significant clinical challenges. The localized delivery of therapeutics has recently emerged as an alternative to systemic therapy, which not only allows the delivery of higher doses of therapeutic agents to the surgical site, but also enables overcoming post-surgical complications, such as infections, inflammations, and pain. Due to the limitations of the current drug delivery systems, and an increasing clinical need for disease-specific drug release systems, hydrogels have attracted considerable interest, due to their unique properties, including a high capacity for drug loading, as well as a sustained release profile. Hydrogels can be used as local drug performance carriers as a means for diminishing the side effects of current systemic drug delivery methods and are suitable for the majority of surgery-based injuries. This work summarizes recent advances in hydrogel-based drug delivery systems (DDSs), including formulations such as implantable, injectable, and sprayable hydrogels, with a particular emphasis on stimuli-responsive materials. Moreover, clinical applications and future opportunities for this type of post-surgery treatment are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esfandyar Askari
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran P.O. Box 1517964311, Iran;
| | - Amir Seyfoori
- Laboratory for Innovations in Micro Engineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; (A.S.); (M.A.); (S.S.G.); (B.K.)
| | - Meitham Amereh
- Laboratory for Innovations in Micro Engineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; (A.S.); (M.A.); (S.S.G.); (B.K.)
| | - Sadaf Samimi Gharaie
- Laboratory for Innovations in Micro Engineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; (A.S.); (M.A.); (S.S.G.); (B.K.)
| | - Hanieh Sadat Ghazali
- Nanotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technologies, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran P.O. Box 16846-13114, Iran;
| | - Zahra Sadat Ghazali
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology (AUT), Tehran P.O. Box 158754413, Iran;
| | - Bardia Khunjush
- Laboratory for Innovations in Micro Engineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; (A.S.); (M.A.); (S.S.G.); (B.K.)
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovations in Micro Engineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; (A.S.); (M.A.); (S.S.G.); (B.K.)
- Center for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
- Center for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
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33
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Ou Q, Yu Y, Li A, Chen J, Yu T, Xu X, Xie X, Chen Y, Lin D, Zeng Q, Zhang Y, Tang X, Yao H, Luo B. Association of survival and genomic mutation signature with immunotherapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:230. [PMID: 32309377 PMCID: PMC7154492 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2020.01.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current guidelines lack recommendations for the use of immunotherapy and immune-related biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aim to provide reliable evidence of the association of survival with HCC immunotherapy and to demonstrate that genomic mutation signature could be an effective biomarker to predict immunotherapy efficacy of HCC patients. METHODS We conducted a meta-analysis of 17 randomized trials with 2055 patients and an individual patient-level analysis of 31 patients. Trial data were identified in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central library, and individual patient data were obtained from the cBioPortal database. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed with the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42018083991. RESULTS The meta-analysis showed that compared to conventional therapy, immunotherapy resulted in prolonged OS (HR =0.65, P<0.0001, high quality) and PFS (HR =0.81, P<0.0001, high quality); the benefits were observed for cellular immunotherapy, tumor vaccine, and cytokine immunotherapy. Findings were robust to subgroup and trial sequential analyses. In the individual patient-level analysis of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor, mutations in TERT, CTNNB1, BRD4, or MLL, and co-mutations in TP53 and TERT or BRD4 were associated with significantly worse survival. These oncogenes were used to develop a novel integrated mutation risk score, which exhibited better utility in predicting survival than the tumor mutation burden (TMB). Patients with low- versus high- mutation risk score had longer OS (HR =0.18, P=0.02) and PFS (HR =0.33, P=0.018). A nomogram comprising the mutation risk score and essential clinical factors further improved the predictive accuracy (AUC =0.840 for both 1- and 2-year OS). CONCLUSIONS Immunotherapy showed longer OS and PFS than conventional therapy among HCC patients, especially patients with a low mutation risk score. The nomogram based on genomic and clinical characteristics is effective in predicting survival of HCC patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyun Ou
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yunfang Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Anlin Li
- Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Tingting Yu
- Meizhou Academy of Medical Science, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated of Sun Yat-sen University, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xinxin Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yongjian Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Dagui Lin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Qiaohong Zeng
- Meizhou Academy of Medical Science, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated of Sun Yat-sen University, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xudong Tang
- Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Herui Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Baoming Luo
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Department of Oncology and Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, Breast Tumor Centre, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
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34
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Sahara K, Farooq SA, Tsilimigras DI, Merath K, Paredes AZ, Wu L, Mehta R, Hyer JM, Endo I, Pawlik TM. Immunotherapy utilization for hepatobiliary cancer in the United States: disparities among patients with different socioeconomic status. Hepatobiliary Surg Nutr 2020; 9:13-24. [PMID: 32140475 DOI: 10.21037/hbsn.2019.07.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Patients with advanced hepatobiliary cancer (HBC) have a dismal prognosis and limited treatment options. Immunotherapy has been considered as a promising treatment, especially for cancers not amenable to surgery. Methods Between 2004, and 2015, patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intra- and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer (GBC) were identified in the National Cancer Database. Results Among 249,913 patients with HBC, only 585 (0.2%) patients received immunotherapy. Among patients who received immunotherapy, most patients were diagnosed between 2012 and 2015, had private insurance, as well as an income ≥$46,000 and were treated at an academic facility. The use of immunotherapy among HBC patients varied by diagnosis (HCC, 67.7%; bile duct cancer, 14%). On multivariable analysis, a more recent period of diagnosis (OR 1.80, 95% CI: 1.44-2.25), median income >$46,000 (OR 1.43, 95% CI: 1.11-1.87), and higher tumor stage (stage III, OR 2.22, 95% CI: 1.65-3.01; stage IV, OR 3.24, 95% CI: 2.41-4.34) were associated with greater odds of receiving immunotherapy. Conclusions Overall utilization of immunotherapy in the US among patients with HBC was very low, yet has increased over time. Certain socioeconomic factors were associated with an increased likely of receiving immunotherapy, suggesting disparities in access of patients with lower socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Sahara
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.,Gastroenterological Surgery Division, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - S Ayesha Farooq
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Diamantis I Tsilimigras
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Katiuscha Merath
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anghela Z Paredes
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lu Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rittal Mehta
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - J Madison Hyer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Itaru Endo
- Gastroenterological Surgery Division, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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35
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Torabi-Rahvar M, Aghayan HR, Ahmadbeigi N. Antigen-independent killer cells prepared for adoptive immunotherapy: One source, divergent protocols, diverse nomenclature. J Immunol Methods 2019; 477:112690. [PMID: 31678265 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2019.112690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using tumor antigen-independent killer cells has been widely used in clinical trials of cancer treatment. Circumventing the need for identification of a particular tumor-associated antigen on tumor cells, the approach has opened possibilities for the extension of ACT immunotherapy to patients with a wide variety of cancer types. Namely, Natural Killer (NK), Lymphokine-activated Killer (LAK) cells and Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells are the most commonly used cell types in antigen-independent adoptive immunotherapy of cancer. They all originate from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and share several common features in their killing mechanisms. However, despite broad application in clinical settings, the boundaries between these cell types are not very clearly defined. The current study aims to review different aspects of these cell populations in terms of phenotypical characteristic and preparation media, to clarify how the boundaries are set.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hamid-Reza Aghayan
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Ahmadbeigi
- Cell-Based Therapies Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute,Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, North Kargar Ave, 14117 Tehran, Iran.
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36
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Lu SD, Li L, Liang XM, Chen W, Chen FL, Fan LL, Ahir BK, Zhang WG, Zhong JH. Updates and advancements in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma patients after hepatectomy. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 13:1077-1088. [PMID: 31648568 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1684898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The 5-year recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatic resection or local ablation is up to 70%. Adjuvant therapies to prevent HCC recurrence have been reported but are not currently recommended by EASL or AASLD guidelines. This review examined evidence from randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews on the safety and efficacy of adjuvant therapies and chemotherapies in HCC patients after resection or local ablation.Areas covered: PubMed was searched through 15 June 2019. Available evidence was assessed based on the GRADE system.Expert commentary: Transarterial chemoembolization is the best adjuvant therapy for HCC patients at high risk of recurrence, antiviral therapy with nucleoside analogs is effective for preventing recurrence of HBV-related HCC, and interferon-α is effective for preventing recurrence of HCV-related HCC. Further studies are needed to clarify the efficacy of adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors. Adjuvant sorafenib appears to offer negligible clinical benefit and high risk of adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Dong Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xin-Min Liang
- Grade 2016, Basic medical college of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Wu Chen
- Grade 2016, Basic medical college of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fu-Li Chen
- Grade 2016, Basic medical college of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lang-Lin Fan
- Grade 2016, Basic medical college of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Bhavesh K Ahir
- Section of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wan-Guang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian-Hong Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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37
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Wang J, Shen T, Wang Q, Zhang T, Li L, Wang Y, Fang Y. The long-term efficacy of cytokine-induced killer cellular therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Immunotherapy 2019; 11:1325-1335. [PMID: 31578914 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2019-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: The long-term efficacy of cytokine-induced killer cellular therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients after curative treatments remains controversial. Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted, and the outcomes were the recurrence rate and overall survival. Results: Eight randomized clinical trials with 1038 participants were included. Compared with the control group, cytokine-induced killer cellular therapy group could reduce 1-year, 3-year recurrence rates, as well as improve 1-5 years overall survival for hepatocellular carcinoma patients (p < 0.05). However, it failed to affect the 5-year recurrence rate and 6-year overall survival (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Cytokine-induced killer cellular adjuvant therapy exerted a favorable role in improving early and long-term efficacy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxue Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Pharmacy Administration & Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tiantian Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,School of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Pharmacy Administration & Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Pharmacy Administration & Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lujin Li
- The Center for Drug Clinical Research of Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Immunotech Applied Science Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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38
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Akateh C, Black SM, Conteh L, Miller ED, Noonan A, Elliott E, Pawlik TM, Tsung A, Cloyd JM. Neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:3704-3721. [PMID: 31391767 PMCID: PMC6676544 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i28.3704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy worldwide and a major cause of cancer-related mortality for which liver resection is an important curative-intent treatment option. However, many patients present with advanced disease and with underlying chronic liver disease and/or cirrhosis, limiting the proportion of patients who are surgical candidates. In addition, the development of recurrent or de novo cancers following surgical resection is common. These issues have led investigators to evaluate the benefit of neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment strategies aimed at improving resectability rates and decreasing recurrence rates. While high-level evidence to guide treatment decision making is lacking, recent advances in locoregional and systemic therapies, including antiviral treatment and immunotherapy, raise the prospect of novel approaches that may improve the outcomes of patients with HCC. In this review, we evaluate the evidence for various neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies and discuss opportunities for future clinical and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clifford Akateh
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Sylvester M Black
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Lanla Conteh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Eric D Miller
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Anne Noonan
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Eric Elliott
- Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Allan Tsung
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Jordan M Cloyd
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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39
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Cao J, Kong FH, Liu X, Wang XB. Immunotherapy with dendritic cells and cytokine-induced killer cells for hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:3649-3663. [PMID: 31367163 PMCID: PMC6658393 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i27.3649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been revealed as the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The introduction of cell-based immunotherapy, including dendritic cells (DCs) and cytokine-induced killer cells (CIKs), has brought HCC patients an effective benefit. However, the efficacy and necessity of cellular immunotherapy after different interventional therapy remains to be further explored. AIM To investigate the efficacy of cellular immunotherapy, involving DCs and CIKs, combined with different conventional treatments of HCC. METHODS We performed a literature search on PubMed and Web of Science up to February 15, 2019. Long-term efficacy (overall survival and recurrence) and short-term adverse effects were investigated to assess the effectiveness of immunotherapy with DCs and/or CIKs. Review Manager 5.3 was used to perform the analysis. RESULTS A total of 22 studies involving 3756 patients selected by eligibility inclusion criteria were forwarded for meta-analysis. Combined with the conventional clinical treatment, immunotherapy with DCs and/or CIKs was demonstrated to significantly improve overall survival at 6 mo [risk ratio (RR) = 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.13, P = 0.02], 1 year (RR = 1.12; 95%CI: 1.07-1.17, P < 0.00001), 3 years (RR = 1.23; 95%CI: 1.15-1.31, P < 0.00001) and 5 years (RR = 1.26; 95%CI: 1.15-1.37, P < 0.00001). Recurrence rate was significantly reduced by cellular immunotherapy at 6 mo (RR = 0.50; 95%CI: 0.36-0.69, P < 0.0001) and 1 year (RR = 0.82; 95%CI: 0.75-0.89, P < 0.00001). Adverse effect assessment addressed that immunotherapy with DCs and/or CIKs was accepted as a safe, feasible treatment. CONCLUSION Combination immunotherapy with DCs, CIKs and DC/CIK with various routine treatments for HCC was evidently suggested to improve patients' prognosis by increasing overall survival and reducing cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cao
- Department of Surgery, Technical University of Munich, Munich 80333, Germany
| | - Fan-Hua Kong
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Wang
- Department of Surgery, Technical University of Munich, Munich 80333, Germany
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40
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2018 Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Korean J Radiol 2019; 20:1042-1113. [PMID: 31270974 PMCID: PMC6609431 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2019.0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth most common cancer in men in Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle-aged and elderly patients. These practice guidelines will provide useful and constructive advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 44 experts in hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology in the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2014 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions.
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41
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Johnston MP, Khakoo SI. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Current and future. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:2977-2989. [PMID: 31293335 PMCID: PMC6603808 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i24.2977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises on the background of chronic liver disease. Despite the development of effective anti-viral therapeutics HCC is continuing to rise, in part driven by the epidemic of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Many patients present with advanced disease out with the criteria for transplant, resection or even locoregional therapy. Currently available therapeutics for HCC are effective in a small minority of individuals. However, there has been a major global interest in immunotherapies for cancer and although HCC has lagged behind other cancers, great opportunities now exist for treating HCC with newer and more sophisticated agents. Whilst checkpoint inhibitors are at the forefront of this revolution, other therapeutics such as inhibitory cytokine blockade, oncolytic viruses, adoptive cellular therapies and vaccines are emerging. Broadly these may be categorized as either boosting existing immune response or stimulating de novo immune response. Although some of these agents have shown promising results as monotherapy in early phase trials it may well be that their future role will be as combination therapy, either in combination with one another or in combination with treatment modalities such as locoregional therapy. Together these agents are likely to generate new and exciting opportunities for treating HCC, which are summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Johnston
- Department of Hepatology, Southampton General Hospital, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Salim I Khakoo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
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42
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Yoon JS, Song BG, Lee JH, Lee HY, Kim SW, Chang Y, Lee YB, Cho EJ, Yu SJ, Sinn DH, Kim YJ, Lee JH, Yoon JH. Adjuvant cytokine-induced killer cell immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: a propensity score-matched analysis of real-world data. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:523. [PMID: 31151419 PMCID: PMC6543598 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5740-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several randomized controlled trials have shown that adjuvant immunotherapy with autologous cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells prolongs recurrence-free survival (RFS) after curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We investigated the efficacy of adjuvant immunotherapy with activated CIK cells in real-world clinical practice. METHODS A total of 59 patients who had undergone curative surgical resection or radiofrequency ablation for stage I or II HCC, and subsequently received adjuvant CIK cell immunotherapy at two large-volume centers in Korea were retrospectively included. Propensity score matching with a 1:1 ratio was conducted to avoid possible bias, and 59 pairs of matched control subjects were also generated. The primary endpoint was RFS and the secondary endpoints were overall survival and safety. RESULTS The median follow-up duration was 28.0 months (interquartile range, 22.9-42.3 months). In a univariable analysis, the immunotherapy group showed significantly longer RFS than the control group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.42; 95% CI, 0.22-0.80; log-rank P = 0.006). The median RFS in the control group was 29.8 months, and the immunotherapy group did not reach a median RFS. A multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that immunotherapy was an independent predictor for HCC recurrence (adjusted HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.20-0.73; P = 0.004). The overall incidence of adverse events in the immunotherapy group was 16/59 (27.1%) and no patient experienced a grade 3 or 4 adverse event. CONCLUSIONS The adjuvant immunotherapy with autologous CIK cells after curative treatment safely prolonged the RFS of HCC patients in a real-world setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sik Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, South Korea
| | - Byeong Geun Song
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Hyo Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Eulji General Hospital, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Woong Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Digestive Disease Center, Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yun Bin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun Ju Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Su Jong Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Sinn
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joon Hyeok Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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43
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2018 Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Gut Liver 2019; 13:227-299. [PMID: 31060120 PMCID: PMC6529163 DOI: 10.5009/gnl19024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth most common cancer in men in Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle-aged and elderly patients. These practice guidelines will provide useful and constructive advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 44 experts in hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology and radiation oncology in the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2014 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions.
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44
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The Effects of Short-Term Immunosuppressive Therapy on Redox Parameters in the Livers of Pregnant Wistar Rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081370. [PMID: 30995791 PMCID: PMC6517924 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunosuppressive drugs are widely used to avoid graft rejection, but they are also known to be strongly hepatotoxic. The goal of the current study was to determine: (i) the immunoexpression of SOD1, CAT, GPX1; (ii) the concentration of MDA, GSH; (iii) the activity of SOD, CAT, GPX, in the native liver of a pregnant female rats undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. The study was based on archival material obtained from Department of Nephrology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine of the Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2 at the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland. The study was carried out on 32 female rats exposed to oral administration of immunosuppressants two weeks before and during pregnancy. The percentage of SOD1 immunopositive hepatocytes in rats treated with cyclosporine A, mycophenolate mofetil, everolimus, and glucocorticosteroid was significantly elevated above that of the control rats. The concentration of MDA in the liver of animals exposed to cyclosporine A, everolimus, and glucocorticosteroid was significantly higher than in other groups. Among the groups of dams treated with immunosuppressive drugs, the highest significant concentration of GSH was found in the livers of rats treated with cyclosporine A, mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticosteroid. Immunosuppressive therapy during pregnancy affects the oxidoreductive balance in the livers of rats, depending on the regimen used.
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Yu SJ, Ma C, Heinrich B, Brown ZJ, Sandhu M, Zhang Q, Fu Q, Agdashian D, Rosato U, Korangy F, Greten TF. Targeting the crosstalk between cytokine-induced killer cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2019; 70:449-457. [PMID: 30414862 PMCID: PMC6380944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.10.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell-based immunotherapy is effective as an adjuvant therapy in early stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) but lacks efficacy in advanced HCC. We aimed to investigate immune suppressor mechanisms in HCC, focusing on the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in response to CIK therapy. METHODS MDSCs were quantified by flow cytometry and quantitative real-time PCR. Cytokines were detected by cytokine array. A lactate dehydrogenase cytotoxicity assay was performed in the presence or absence of MDSCs to study CIK function against HCC cells in vitro. An FDA-approved PDE5 inhibitor, tadalafil, was used to target MDSCs in vitro and in vivo. Two different murine HCC cell lines were tested in subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor models in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice. The antitumor effects of human CIKs and MDSCs were also tested in vitro. RESULTS Adoptive cell transfer of CIKs into tumor-bearing mice induced inflammatory mediators (e.g., CX3CL1, IL-13) in the tumor microenvironment and an increase of tumor-infiltrating MDSCs, leading to impaired antitumor activity in 2 different HCC models. MDSCs efficiently suppressed the cytotoxic activity of CIKs in vitro. In contrast, treatment with a PDE5 inhibitor reversed the MDSC suppressor function via ARG1 and iNOS blockade and systemic treatment with a PDE5 inhibitor prevented MDSC accumulation in the tumor microenvironment upon CIK cell therapy and increased its antitumor efficacy. Similar results were observed when human CIKs were tested in vitro in the presence of CD14+HLA-DR-/low MDSCs. Treatment of MDSCs with a PDE5 inhibitor suppressed MDSC suppressor function and enhanced CIK activity against human HCC cell lines in vitro. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that targeting MDSCs is an efficient strategy to enhance the antitumor efficacy of CIKs for the treatment of patients with HCC. LAY SUMMARY Cytokine-induced killer cells are a mixture of immune cells given to eliminate cancer cells. However, not all patients respond to this treatment. Herein, we show in 2 different liver cancer models that myeloid-derived suppressor cells are increased in response to cytokine-induced killer cell therapy. Targeting these myeloid-derived suppressor cells may provide an additional therapeutic benefit alongside cytokine-induced killer cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jong Yu
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA,Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chi Ma
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zachary J. Brown
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Milan Sandhu
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Qianfei Zhang
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Qiong Fu
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - David Agdashian
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Umberto Rosato
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Firouzeh Korangy
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tim F. Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA,NCI CCR Liver Cancer Program
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Adoptive cell transfer therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Med 2019; 13:3-11. [DOI: 10.1007/s11684-019-0684-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Lee JH, Lee JH, Lim YS, Yeon JE, Song TJ, Yu SJ, Gwak GY, Kim KM, Kim YJ, Lee JW, Yoon JH. Sustained efficacy of adjuvant immunotherapy with cytokine-induced killer cells for hepatocellular carcinoma: an extended 5-year follow-up. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:23-32. [PMID: 30232520 PMCID: PMC6326973 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-018-2247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Our earlier multicenter randomized controlled trial showed that adjuvant immunotherapy with cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells resulted in longer recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) as well in patients who received curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we determined if the efficacy of CIK cell therapy continued after end of repeated CIK cell injections. We performed a follow-up study of our preceding trial. We included 226 patients: 114 patients in the immunotherapy group (injection of 6.4 × 109 CIK cells, 16 times during 60 weeks) and 112 patients in the control group (no treatment) after potentially curative treatment for HCC. In total, 162 patients (89 of the immunotherapy group and 73 of controls) underwent an extended follow-up for 60 months after randomization of the last patient. The primary endpoint was RFS, and secondary endpoints included OS. During follow-up time of median 68.5 months (interquartile range 45.0-82.2 months), the immunotherapy group continued to show a significantly lower risk of recurrence or death [hazard ratio (HR) 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48-0.94; P = 0.009 by one-sided log-rank test]. At 5 years, RFS rate was 44.8% in the immunotherapy group and 33.1% in the control group. The risk of all-cause death was also lower in the immunotherapy group compared to the control group (HR 0.33; 95% CI 0.15-0.76; P = 0.006). In patients who received curative treatment for HCC, the significant improvement in RFS and OS as a result of adjuvant CIK cell immunotherapy lasted over 5 years without boosting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Joon Hyeok Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Suk Lim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Eun Yeon
- The Liver Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Tae-Jin Song
- Department of Surgery, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Su Jong Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Geum-Youn Gwak
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kang Mo Kim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Jae Won Lee
- Department of Statistics, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea.
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Shirjang S, Alizadeh N, Mansoori B, Mahmoodpoor A, Kafil HS, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Yousefi M. Promising immunotherapy: Highlighting cytokine-induced killer cells. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:8863-8883. [PMID: 30556298 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
For many years, cancer therapy has appeared to be a challenging issue for researchers and physicians. By the introduction of novel methods in immunotherapy, the prospect of cancer therapy even more explained than before. Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell-based immunotherapy demonstrated to have potentiality in improving clinical outcomes and relieving major side effects of standard treatment options. In addition, given the distinctive features such as high safety, low toxicity effects on healthy cells, numerous clinical trials conducted on CIK cells. Due to the shortcomings that observed in CIK cell immunotherapy alone, arising a tendency to make modifications (combined modality therapy or combination therapy) including the addition of various types of cytokines, genetic engineering, combination with immune checkpoints, and so on. In this review, we have tried to bring forth the latest immunotherapy methods and their overview. We have discussed the combination therapies with CIK cells and the conducted clinical trials. This helps the future studies to use integrated therapies with CIK cells as a promising treatment of many types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solmaz Shirjang
- Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Alizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Mansoori
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ata Mahmoodpoor
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Immune and Gene therapy Lab, Cancer Center Karolinska (CCK), Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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de Jesus VHF, Felismino TC, de Barros e Silva MJ, de Souza e Silva V, Riechelmann RP. Current approaches to immunotherapy in noncolorectal gastrointestinal malignancies. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2018; 73:e510s. [PMID: 30365605 PMCID: PMC6173942 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2018/e510s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Noncolorectal gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are among the most frequently diagnosed cancers. Despite the undeniable progress in systemic treatments in recent decades, further improvements using cytotoxic chemotherapy seem unlikely. In this setting, recent discoveries regarding the mechanism underlying immune evasion have prompted the study of molecules capable of inducing strong antitumor responses. Thus, according to early data, immunotherapy is a very promising tool for the treatment of patients with GI malignancies. Noncolorectal GI cancers are a major public health problem worldwide. Traditional treatment options, such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, monoclonal antibodies and antiangiogenic agents, have been the backbone of treatment for various stages of GI cancers, but overall mortality remains a major problem. Thus, there is a substantial unmet need for new drugs and therapies to further improve the outcomes of treatment for noncolorectal GI malignancies. "Next-generation" immunotherapy is emerging as an effective and promising treatment option in several types of cancers. Therefore, encouraged by this recent success, many clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors and other strategies in treating noncolorectal GI malignancies are ongoing. This review will summarize the current clinical progress of modern immunotherapy in the field of noncolorectal GI tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rachel P Riechelmann
- Departamento de Oncologia Médica, A.C. Camargo Cancer Center, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Departamento de Radiologia e Oncologia, Instituto do Cancer do Estado de Sao Paulo (ICESP), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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Sullivan KM, Kenerson HL, Pillarisetty VG, Riehle KJ, Yeung RS. Precision oncology in liver cancer. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2018; 6:285. [PMID: 30105235 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2018.06.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
With the widespread adoption of molecular profiling in clinical oncology practice, many physicians are faced with making therapeutic decisions based upon isolated genomic alterations. For example, epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are effective in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) while anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies are ineffective in Ras-mutant colorectal cancers. The matching of mutations with drugs aimed at their respective gene products represents the current state of "precision" oncology. Despite the great expectations of this approach, only a fraction of cancers responds to 'targeted' interventions, and many early responders will ultimately develop resistance to these agents. The underwhelming success of mutation-driven therapies across all cancer types is not due to an inability to detect genetic changes in tumors; rather a deficit in functional insight into the genomic alterations that give rise to each cancer. The Achilles heel of precision oncology thus remains the lack of a robust functional understanding of an individual cancer genome that then allows prediction of the best therapy and resultant outcome for that patient. Current practice focuses on one 'actionable' mutation at a time, while solid cancers typically possess many mutations that involve different cellular sub-populations within a tumor. No method or platform currently exists to guide the interpretation of these complex data, nor to accurately predict response to treatment. This problem is particularly germane to primary liver cancers (PLC), for which only a handful of targeted therapies have been introduced. Here, we will review strategies aimed at overcoming some of these challenges in precision oncology, using liver cancer as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Sullivan
- Northwest Liver Research Program, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Heidi L Kenerson
- Northwest Liver Research Program, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Venu G Pillarisetty
- Northwest Liver Research Program, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kimberly J Riehle
- Northwest Liver Research Program, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Raymond S Yeung
- Northwest Liver Research Program, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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