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Wang C, Su NW, Hsu K, Kao CW, Chang MC, Chang YF, Lim KH, Chiang YH, Chang YC, Sung MT, Wu HH, Chen CG. The implication of serum HLA-G in angiogenesis of multiple myeloma. Mol Med 2024; 30:86. [PMID: 38877399 PMCID: PMC11177474 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the advances of therapies, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable hematological cancer that most patients experience relapse. Tumor angiogenesis is strongly correlated with cancer relapse. Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) has been known as a molecule to suppress angiogenesis. We aimed to investigate whether soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) was involved in the relapse of MM. METHODS We first investigated the dynamics of serum sHLA-G, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in 57 successfully treated MM patients undergoing remission and relapse. The interactions among these angiogenesis-related targets (sHLA-G, VEGF and IL-6) were examined in vitro. Their expression at different oxygen concentrations was investigated using a xenograft animal model by intra-bone marrow and skin grafts with myeloma cells. RESULTS We found that HLA-G protein degradation augmented angiogenesis. Soluble HLA-G directly inhibited vasculature formation in vitro. Mechanistically, HLA-G expression was regulated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in MM cells under hypoxia. We thus developed two mouse models of myeloma xenografts in intra-bone marrow (BM) and underneath the skin, and found a strong correlation between HLA-G and HIF-1α expressions in hypoxic BM, but not in oxygenated tissues. Yet when stimulated with IL-6, both HLA-G and HIF-1α could be targeted to ubiquitin-mediated degradation via PARKIN. CONCLUSION These results highlight the importance of sHLA-G in angiogenesis at different phases of multiple myeloma. The experimental evidence that sHLA-G as an angiogenesis suppressor in MM may be useful for future development of novel therapies to prevent relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei, 25160, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Wen Su
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Nursing, and Management, MacKay Junior College of Medicine, New Taipei, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Kate Hsu
- Nursing, and Management, MacKay Junior College of Medicine, New Taipei, 25245, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Wei Kao
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chih Chang
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fang Chang
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
| | - Ken-Hong Lim
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hao Chiang
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Chang
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ta Sung
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Hsia Wu
- Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110, Taiwan
| | - Caleb G Chen
- Department of Hematology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan.
- Nursing, and Management, MacKay Junior College of Medicine, New Taipei, 25245, Taiwan.
- Department of Hematology, GCRC Laboratory, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, 25160, Taiwan.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan.
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Yu JH, Yuan HB, Yan ZY, Zhang X, Xu HH. The complement regulatory protein CD46 serves as a novel biomarker for cervical cancer diagnosis and prognosis evaluation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1421778. [PMID: 38919630 PMCID: PMC11196419 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1421778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background CD46 has been revealed to be a key factor in malignant transformation and cancer treatment. However, the clinical significance of CD46 in cervical cancer remains unclear, and this study aimed to evaluate its role in cervical cancer diagnosis and prognosis evaluation. Methods A total of 180 patients with an initial diagnosis of cervical cancer were enrolled at Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, China. The plasma levels of soluble CD46 (sCD46) and the expression of membrane-bound CD46 (mCD46) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), respectively. Results CD46 was found to be significantly upregulated in cervical cancer tissues vs. normal tissues, while no CD46 staining was detected in paired adjacent noncancerous tissues. CD46 staining was more pronounced in cancer cells than in stromal cells in situ (in tissues). Moreover, the plasma levels of sCD46 were able to some extent discriminate between cancer patients and healthy women (AUC=0.6847, 95% CI:0.6152-0.7541). Analysis of Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed that patients with low CD46 expression had slightly longer overall survival (OS) than patients with high CD46 expression in the tumor microenvironment, but no significant difference. Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that CD46 (P=0.034) is an independent risk factor for OS in cervical cancer patients. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that cervical cancer patients exhibit aberrant expression of CD46, which is closely associated with a poor prognosis, suggesting that CD46 plays a key role in promoting cervical carcinogenesis and that CD46 could serve as a promising potential target for precision therapy for cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hui Yu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao-Bo Yuan
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zi-Yi Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
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Cokan A, da Silva NCH, Kavalar R, But I, Pakiž M, Andrade de Oliveira S, dos Santos Gomes FO, da Silva RS, Peixoto CA, Lucena-Silva N. Modulation of sHLA-G, PD-1, and PD-L1 Expression in Cervical Lesions Following Imiquimod Treatment and Its Association with Treatment Success. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1272. [PMID: 38610950 PMCID: PMC11010979 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is a precancerous condition linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, often necessitating surgical interventions carrying the risk of subsequent preterm births. This study explores the potential of imiquimod (IMQ), as a non-invasive alternative treatment. The focus is on understanding IMQ impact on immune checkpoint molecules, particularly PD-1, PD-L1, and sHLA-G, which play pivotal roles in shaping immune responses and cancer progression. (2) Methods: Forty-three patients diagnosed with a high-risk squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL, p16-positive) self-applied 5% IMQ encapsulated in sachets containing 250 g of cream into the vaginal cavity three times a week for 16 weeks. The impact of IMQ therapy on cervical lesion regression was assessed through immunohistochemistry (IHC), examining changes in sHLA-G, PD-L1, and PD-1 levels. The antiviral activity of IMQ was evaluated through HPV-E7 immunofluorescence. Ethical considerations were adhered to, and the research methods were based on a previously approved clinical trial (clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT04859361). (3) Results: IMQ treatment demonstrated efficacy, leading to lesion regression. sHLA-G levels in CIN before starting IMQ application were associated with unsuccessful treatment (p = 0.0036). IMQ did not significantly alter the expression of PD-1. We observed a decrease in PD-L1 levels in those who were successfully treated (p = 0.0509) and a reduction in HPV burden. (4) Conclusions: IMQ exhibits promise as a non-invasive treatment for CIN, emphasising its potential to modulate the immune microenvironment. Baseline sHLA-G levels emerge as potential predictors of treatment response. Understanding the nuanced dynamics of immune checkpoints sheds light on IMQ mechanism of action. Further exploration is warranted to decipher the intricate mechanisms underlying IMQ treatment in the context of cervical lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Cokan
- Department for Gynaecological and Breast Oncology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Neila Caroline Henrique da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, do Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (N.C.H.d.S.); (S.A.d.O.); (N.L.-S.)
| | - Rajko Kavalar
- Department for Pathology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Igor But
- Department for General Gynaecology and Gynaecological Urology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Maja Pakiž
- Department for Gynaecological and Breast Oncology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Sheilla Andrade de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, do Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (N.C.H.d.S.); (S.A.d.O.); (N.L.-S.)
| | - Fabiana Oliveira dos Santos Gomes
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, do Departamento de Entomologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (F.O.d.S.G.); (R.S.d.S.); (C.A.P.)
| | - Rodrigo Soares da Silva
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, do Departamento de Entomologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (F.O.d.S.G.); (R.S.d.S.); (C.A.P.)
| | - Christina Alves Peixoto
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, do Departamento de Entomologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (F.O.d.S.G.); (R.S.d.S.); (C.A.P.)
| | - Norma Lucena-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, do Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Campus da UFPE, Recife 50740-465, Brazil; (N.C.H.d.S.); (S.A.d.O.); (N.L.-S.)
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Wang S, Wang J, Xia Y, Zhang L, Jiang Y, Liu M, Gao Q, Zhang C. Harnessing the potential of HLA-G in cancer therapy: advances, challenges, and prospects. J Transl Med 2024; 22:130. [PMID: 38310272 PMCID: PMC10838004 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04938-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockades have been prized in circumventing and ablating the impediments posed by immunosuppressive receptors, reaching an exciting juncture to be an innovator in anticancer therapy beyond traditional therapeutics. Thus far, approved immune checkpoint blockades have principally targeted PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 with exciting success in a plethora of tumors and yet are still trapped in dilemmas of limited response rates and adverse effects. Hence, unveiling new immunotherapeutic targets has aroused immense scientific interest in the hope of expanding the clinical application of immune checkpoint blockades to scale new heights. Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G), a non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule, is enriched on various malignant cells and is involved in the hindrance of immune effector cells and the facilitation of immunosuppressive cells. HLA-G stands out as a crucial next-generation immune checkpoint showing great promise for the benefit of cancer patients. Here, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the expression pattern and immunological functions of HLA-G, as well as its interaction with well-characterized immune checkpoints. Since HLA-G can be shed from the cell surface or released by various cells as free soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) or as part of extracellular vesicles (EVs), namely HLA-G-bearing EVs (HLA-GEV), we discuss the potential of sHLA-G and HLA-GEV as predictive biomarkers. This review also addresses the advancement of HLA-G-based therapies in preclinical and clinical settings, with a focus on their clinical application in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of Chinese Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Le Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueqiang Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Man Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qinglei Gao
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of Chinese Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Cuntai Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Bartolome J, Molto C, Benitez-Fuentes JD, Fernandez-Hinojal G, Manzano A, Perez-Segura P, Mittal A, Tamimi F, Amir E, Ocana A. Prognostic value of human leukocyte antigen G expression in solid tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1165813. [PMID: 37275862 PMCID: PMC10232772 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1165813] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Identification of modulators of the immune response with inhibitory properties that could be susceptible for therapeutic intervention is a key goal in cancer research. An example is the human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), a nonclassical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule, involved in cancer progression. Methods In this article we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between HLA-G expression and outcome in solid tumors. This study was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. Results A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies comprised data from 4871 patients reporting overall survival (OS), and 961 patients, reporting disease free survival (DFS). HLA-G expression was associated with worse OS (HR 2.09, 95% CI = 1.67 to 2.63; P < .001), that was higher in gastric (HR = 3.40; 95% CI = 1.64 to 7.03), pancreatic (HR = 1.72; 95% CI = 0.79 to 3.74) and colorectal (HR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.16 to 2.07) cancer. No significant differences were observed between the most commonly utilized antibody (4H84) and other methods of detection. HLA-G expression was associated with DFS which approached but did not meet statistical significance. Discussion In summary, we describe the first meta-analysis associating HLA-G expression and worse survival in a variety of solid tumors. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022311973.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Bartolome
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos and Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clinico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Consolacion Molto
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Aranzazu Manzano
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos and Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clinico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Perez-Segura
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos and Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clinico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Abhenil Mittal
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Faris Tamimi
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eitan Amir
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alberto Ocana
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos and Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clinico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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da Silva NCH, Sonon P, Medeiros FS, da Silva MC, Dos Santos Gomes FO, Peixoto CA, Crispim JCO, Paiva LA, Rygaard MCV, Menezes MLB, Welkovic S, Donadi EA, Lucena-Silva N. Contribution of HLA-G and FOXP3 genes and proteins in the severity of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia during HPV infection. Hum Immunol 2023:S0198-8859(23)00069-1. [PMID: 37149423 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) persistence leads to the chronification of cervical inflammation, where HLA-G and Foxp3; immunomodulatory molecules, may contribute to the aggravation of the lesion and cancerization. Here, we evaluated the synergic effect of these two molecules in the worsening of the lesion in presence of HPV infection. Hundred and eighty (180) women cervical cells and biopsies were collected for (i) HLAG Sanger sequencing and gene expression, and (ii) HLA-G and Foxp3 molecule expressions by immunohistochemistry. 53 women were HPV+ against 127 women HPV-. HPV+ women were more at risk of having cytological changes (p ≤ 0.0123), histological changes (p < 0.0011), and cervical lesion (p = 0.0004). The HLA-G + 3142CC genotype predisposed women to infection (p = 0.0190), while HLA-G + 3142C and +3035 T alleles were associated with HLA-G5 transcript expression. Both sHLA-G (p = 0.030) and Foxp3 (p = 0.0002) proteins were higher in cervical lesion as well as in high-grade lesion. In addition, sHLA-G+ cells were positively correlated to Foxp3+ cells in presence of HPV infection and in cervical grade II/III injuries. In conclusion, HPV may use HLA-G and Foxp3 as a way of host immune escape contributing to the persistence of infection and inflammation, leading to the cervical lesion and the worsening of lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neila Caroline Henrique da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, Departamento de Imunologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Paulin Sonon
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, Departamento de Imunologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Silva Medeiros
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, Departamento de Imunologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, 50070-550 Recife, PE, Brazil.
| | - Mauro César da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, Departamento de Imunologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Oliveira Dos Santos Gomes
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, Departamento de Entomologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil.
| | - Christina Alves Peixoto
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, Departamento de Entomologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil.
| | - Janaína C O Crispim
- Mestrado Acadêmico em Ciências Aplicada à Saúde da Mulher-UFRN, 59075-000 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Carolina Valença Rygaard
- Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, 50070-550 Recife, PE, Brazil; Centro Integrado de Saúde Amaury de Medeiros, CISAM-UPE, 52030-010 Recife, PE, Brazil.
| | | | - Stefan Welkovic
- Centro Integrado de Saúde Amaury de Medeiros, CISAM-UPE, 52030-010 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Antônio Donadi
- Departamento de Imunologia, Universidade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, HC, Vila Monte Alegre, 14049-900 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Norma Lucena-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética, Departamento de Imunologia do Instituto Aggeu Magalhães-Fiocruz, Av. Moraes rego, s/n, Campus da UFPE, Cidade Universitária, 50740-465 Recife, PE, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, 50070-550 Recife, PE, Brazil.
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Gan J, Di XH, Yan ZY, Gao YF, Xu HH. HLA-G 3'UTR polymorphism diplotypes and soluble HLA-G plasma levels impact cervical cancer susceptibility and prognosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1076040. [PMID: 36618382 PMCID: PMC9810980 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1076040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is an immune checkpoint molecule with relevance in several cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G), its genetic polymorphisms and its haplotype structure in the susceptibility and prognosis of primary cervical cancer in a Chinese Han population. Methods We investigated sHLA-G plasma levels and 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) polymorphisms through ELISA and direct DNA sequencing, respectively, in cervical cancer patients (120 cases) and healthy control women (96 cases). The data were analyzed for associations using PowerMarker, Haploview, and GraphPad Prism. Results In this study, 8 polymorphic sites, 16 haplotypes and 23 diplotypes in the HLA-G 3'UTR were identified in our study population. We observed that each pair of 8 polymorphic sites exhibited linkage disequilibrium. The heterozygote CT genotype at position +3422 (rs17875408) was more common in cervical cancer patients than in healthy women (OR=5.285, P<0.05). Haplotypes UTR-1, UTR-3, and UTR-7 accounted for more than 85% of both groups, but no significant difference was found. The frequency of the UTR-1/UTR-3 diplotype in patients was significantly higher than that in controls (P<0.05). In addition, we further observed that HLA-G 3'UTR polymorphisms may influence the sHLA-G plasma level in patients' peripheral blood, especially 14 bp Ins/Del (rs371194629) and +3142 C/G (rs1063320). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the sHLA-G level had good diagnostic performance in differentiating patients with cervical cancer from healthy women (AUC>0.7). Among patients, mean sHLA-G levels increased with increasing FIGO stages but were not related to the overall survival time. Conclusions The results of the present study enhance our understanding of how HLA-G 3'UTR polymorphisms can influence the peripheral sHLA-G plasma level and play a key role in cervical carcinogenesis. This study further confirmed that sHLA-G may represent a novel plasma biomarker for the prognosis and potential therapeutic target of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing-Hong Di
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zi-Yi Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang-Fan Gao
- School of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumour of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
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Xu HH, Xie YY, Jun-Gan, Yang Z, Han QY. Dynamic changes of soluble HLA-G and cytokine plasma levels in cervical cancer patients: potential role in cancer progression and immunotherapy. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04331-4. [PMID: 36053326 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04331-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic inflammation has been proven to be an important factor in carcinogenesis. Cytokines are the central mediators in the inflammatory microenvironment, and their release may be influenced by soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G). The aim of this study was to monitor the dynamic process of these soluble factors in patients with cervical cancer at Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, trying to understand their relationship with diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. METHODS We quantified plasma levels of sHLA-G and 12 cytokines using ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively, in the peripheral blood of patients with cervical cancer divided into three groups: preoperation, postoperation and clinical relapse. Healthy women were used as the control group. Data were analysed by non-parametric tests, receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and Kaplan-Meier plotter (log-rank test). RESULTS In this study, our findings showed that preoperation plasma levels of sHLA-G and the cytokines IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ in cervical cancer patients had a good discriminatory effect between cervical cancer patients and healthy women. It should be noted that plasma levels of sHLA-G, IL-6, and IL-10 were significantly decreased within 30 days after radical hysterectomy (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between IL-6 and IL-10, IL-8 and IL-17 levels preoperatively. In contrast, sHLA-G levels were negatively correlated with IL-10 but not with other cytokines. An increased survival rate in patients with cervical cancer was associated with IL-5 < 1.70 pg/mL, IL-17 < 2.30 pg/mL, and IFN-α < 2.26 pg/mL preoperatively. In addition, our findings showed that the levels of cytokines IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p70, IL-17, and IFN-γ may be related to 5-year relapse rates and/or the metastasis of cervical cancer. CONCLUSION The current findings enhance our understanding of the dynamic process (preoperation, postoperation and clinical relapse) of sHLA-G and these cytokines in the plasma of patients with cervical cancer from diagnosis to prognosis. These biomarkers may play a potential therapeutic target role of such dynamic changes in the immunotherapy for cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques and Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - You-You Xie
- Radiotherapy Department, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Gan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiu-Yue Han
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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9
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Chaberek K, Mrowiec M, Kaczmarek M, Dutsch-Wicherek M. The Creation of the Suppressive Cancer Microenvironment in Patients with HPV-Positive Cervical Cancer. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081906. [PMID: 36010256 PMCID: PMC9406692 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of malignancy is closely connected with the process of cancer microenvironment remodeling. As a malignancy develops, it stimulates the creation of the suppressive microenvironment of the tumor through the presence of cells that express membrane proteins. These proteins are secreted into the cancer microenvironment, where they enable tumor growth. In patients with cancer of the cervix, the development of the disease is also linked to high-risk HPV (hr-HPV) infection. Such infections are common, and most clear spontaneously; however, a small percentage of these infections can persist and progress into precancerous cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive cervical carcinoma. Consequently, it is assumed that the presence of hr-HPV infection alone is not sufficient for the development of cancer. However, chronic HPV infection is associated with the induction of the remodeling of the microenvironment of the epithelium. Furthermore, the local microenvironment is recognized as a cofactor that participates in the persistence of the HPV infection and disease progression. This review presents the selected immune evasion mechanisms responsible for the persistence of HPV infection, beginning with the delay in the virus replication process prior to the maturation of keratinocytes, the shift to the suppressive microenvironment by a change in keratinocyte immunomodulating properties, the alteration of the Th1/Th2 polarization of the immune response in the microenvironment, and, finally, the role of HLA-G antigen expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Chaberek
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education (CMKP), 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Martyna Mrowiec
- Department of Endoscopic Otorhinolaryngology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education (CMKP), 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kaczmarek
- Department of Endoscopic Otorhinolaryngology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education (CMKP), 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Dutsch-Wicherek
- Department of Endoscopic Otorhinolaryngology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education (CMKP), 01-813 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
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10
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Xu HH, Wang HL, Xing TJ, Wang XQ. A Novel Prognostic Risk Model for Cervical Cancer Based on Immune Checkpoint HLA-G-Driven Differentially Expressed Genes. Front Immunol 2022; 13:851622. [PMID: 35924232 PMCID: PMC9341272 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.851622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is a potential checkpoint molecule that plays a key role in cervical carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to construct and validate a prognostic risk model to predict the overall survival (OS) of cervical cancer patients, providing a reference for individualized clinical treatment that may lead to better clinical outcomes. HLA-G-driven differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from two cervical carcinoma cell lines, namely, SiHa and HeLa, with stable overexpression of HLA-G by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). The biological functions of these HLA-G-driven DEGs were analysed by GO enrichment and KEGG pathway using the “clusterProfiler” package. The protein-protein interactions (PPIs) were assessed using the STRING database. The prognostic relevance of each DEG was evaluated by univariate Cox regression using the TCGA-CESC dataset. After the TCGA-CESC cohort was randomly divided into training set and testing set, and a prognostic risk model was constructed by LASSO and stepwise multivariate Cox regression analysis in training set and validated in testing set or in different types of cervical cancer set. The predictive ability of the prognostic risk model or nomogram was evaluated by a series of bioinformatics methods. A total of 1108 candidate HLA-G-driven DEGs, including 391 upregulated and 717 downregulated genes, were obtained and were enriched mostly in the ErbB pathway, steroid biosynthesis, and MAPK pathway. Then, an HLA-G-driven DEG signature consisting of the eight most important prognostic genes CD46, LGALS9, PGM1, SPRY4, CACNB3, PLIN2, MSMO1, and DAGLB was identified as a key predictor of cervical cancer. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that this signature is an independent risk factor for the overall survival of CESC patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the 5-year overall survival rate is 23.0% and 84.6% for the high-risk and low-risk patients, respectively (P<0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of this prognostic model with an area under the curve (AUC) was 0.896 for 5 years, which was better than that of other clinical traits. This prognostic risk model was also successfully validated in different subtypes of cervical cancer, including the keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, squamous cell neoplasms, non-squamous cell neoplasms set. Single-sample gene set enrichment (ssGSEA) algorithm and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) analysis confirmed that this signature influence tumour microenvironment and immune checkpoint blockade. A nomogram that integrated risk score, age, clinical stage, histological grade, and pathological type was then built to predict the overall survival of CESC patients and evaluated by calibration curves, AUC, concordance index (C-index) and decision curve analysis (DCA). To summarize, we developed and validated a novel prognostic risk model for cervical cancer based on HLA-G-driven DEGs, and the prognostic signature showed great ability in predicting the overall survival of patients with cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
- Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
- *Correspondence: Hui-Hui Xu, ; Xue-Quan Wang,
| | - Hui-Li Wang
- Department of Burn, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Tong-Jin Xing
- Department of Infectious Disease, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Xue-Quan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
- *Correspondence: Hui-Hui Xu, ; Xue-Quan Wang,
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11
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Jasinski-Bergner S, Eckstein M, Taubert H, Wach S, Fiebig C, Strick R, Hartmann A, Seliger B. The Human Leukocyte Antigen G as an Immune Escape Mechanism and Novel Therapeutic Target in Urological Tumors. Front Immunol 2022; 13:811200. [PMID: 35185904 PMCID: PMC8855320 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.811200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The non-classical human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is a potent regulatory protein involved in the induction of immunological tolerance. This is based on the binding of membrane-bound as well as soluble HLA-G to inhibitory receptors expressed on various immune effector cells, in particular NK cells and T cells, leading to their attenuated functions. Despite its restricted expression on immune-privileged tissues under physiological conditions, HLA-G expression has been frequently detected in solid and hematopoietic malignancies including urological cancers, such as renal cell and urothelial bladder carcinoma and has been associated with progression of urological cancers and poor outcome of patients: HLA-G expression protects tumor cells from anti-tumor immunity upon interaction with its inhibitory receptors by modulating both the phenotype and function of immune cells leading to immune evasion. This review will discuss the expression, regulation, functional and clinical relevance of HLA-G expression in urological tumors as well as its use as a putative biomarker and/or potential therapeutic target for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma as well as urothelial bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Jasinski-Bergner
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Markus Eckstein
- Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Helge Taubert
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven Wach
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Fiebig
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Reiner Strick
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.,Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.,Main Department of GMP Cell and Gene Therapy, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
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12
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Moossavi M, Shojaee M, Mousavi M, Alaei M, Khorasani M. Evaluating the HLA-G (rs1063320) genetic variant and risk of human papillomavirus infection: a meta-analysis of 953 cases and 877 controls. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2021; 42:1352-1357. [PMID: 34699282 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2021.1965103] [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: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) has immune-modulatory functions. Although the role of genetic variant HLA-G (rs1063320) in susceptibility to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been widely considered, it is still a matter of discussion. In order to shed light on the issue, we, therefore, conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the common impact of the HLA-G (rs1063320) variant on susceptibility to HPV infection. Subsequently, the distribution of genotypes, genotyping techniques and ethnicity groups was collected, and general analyses were performed. A total number of five studies with 953 cases and 877 controls were found to meet our criteria. The polymorphism of HLA-G (rs1063320) was evaluated. This is the first meta-analysis to explore the connection between the HLA-G 3' UTR + 3142C/G (rs1063320) genetic variant and the risk of HPV infection. Our results showed no association between the variant of HLA-G 3' UTR + 3142C/G (rs1063320) and susceptibility to HPV infection in studied target populations.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in both men and women all over the world. It is correlated with prominent load of diseases and malignancies, including anogenital warts and anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. In recent years, several studies manifested that different SNPs located on special genes seems to influence HPV infection risk.What the results of this study add? Our findings disclosed no relation between the variant of HLA-G 3' UTR + 3142C/G (rs1063320) and vulnerability to HPV infection in the target individuals.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The findings in current survey may offer a basis for further study on HLA-G variant in future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moossavi
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Maryam Shojaee
- Department of Biology, Payame Noor University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahsa Mousavi
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Maryam Alaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Milad Khorasani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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13
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Xu HH, Gan J, Xu DP, Li L, Yan WH. Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Role of the Immune Checkpoint HLA-G Molecule in Cancers. Front Immunol 2021; 12:614773. [PMID: 34276642 PMCID: PMC8281136 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.614773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is known as a novel immune checkpoint molecule in cancer; thus, HLA-G and its receptors might be targets for immune checkpoint blockade in cancer immunotherapy. The aim of this study was to systematically identify the roles of checkpoint HLA-G molecules across various types of cancer. ONCOMINE, GEPIA, CCLE, TRRUST, HAP, PrognoScan, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, LinkedOmics, STRING, GeneMANIA, DAVID, TIMER, and CIBERSORT were utilized. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed. In this study, we comprehensively analysed the heterogeneous expression of HLA-G molecules in various types of cancer and focused on genetic alterations, coexpression patterns, gene interaction networks, HLA-G interactors, and the relationships between HLA-G and pathological stage, prognosis, and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We first identified that the mRNA expression levels of HLA-G were significantly upregulated in both most tumor tissues and tumor cell lines on the basis of in-depth analysis of RNAseq data. The expression levels of HLA-G were positively associated with those of the other immune checkpoints PD-1 and CTLA-4. Abnormal expression of HLA-G was significantly correlated with the pathological stage of some but not all tumor types. There was a significant difference between the high and low HLA-G expression groups in terms of overall survival (OS) or disease-free survival (DFS). The results showed that HLA-G highly expressed have positive associations with tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the microenvironment in most types of tumors (P<0.05). Additionally, we identified the key transcription factor (TF) targets in the regulation of HLA-G expression, including HIVEP2, MYCN, CIITA, MYC, and IRF1. Multiple mutations (missense, truncating, etc.) and the methylation status of the HLA-G gene may explain the differential expression of HLA-G across different tumors. Functional enrichment analysis showed that HLA-G was primarily related to T cell activation, T cell regulation, and lymphocyte-mediated immunity. The data may provide novel insights for blockade of the HLA-G/ILT axis, which holds potential for the development of more effective antitumour treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China.,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
| | - Jun Gan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Dan-Ping Xu
- Reproductive Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Lu Li
- Pediatrics, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China.,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
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14
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Lin A, Yan WH. HLA-G/ILTs Targeted Solid Cancer Immunotherapy: Opportunities and Challenges. Front Immunol 2021; 12:698677. [PMID: 34276691 PMCID: PMC8278316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.698677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a promising immunotherapy for cancers. Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G), a neoantigen, its biological functions and clinical relevance have been extensively investigated in malignancies, and early clinical trials with “anti-HLA-G strategy” are being launched for advance solid cancer immunotherapy. The mechanism of HLA-G as a new ICI is that HLA-G can bind immune cell bearing inhibitory receptors, the immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT)-2 and ILT-4. HLA-G/ILT-2/-4 (HLA-G/ILTs) signaling can drive comprehensive immune suppression, promote tumor growth and disease progression. Though clinical benefits could be expected with application of HLA-G antibodies to blockade the HLA-G/ILTs signaling in solid cancer immunotherapy, major challenges with the diversity of HLA-G isoforms, HLA-G/ILTs binding specificity, intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity of HLA-G, lack of isoform-specific antibodies and validated assay protocols, which could dramatically affect the clinical efficacy. Clinical benefits of HLA-G-targeted solid cancer immunotherapy may be fluctuated or even premature unless major challenges are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China.,Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Key Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Techniques & Rapid Rehabilitation of Digestive System Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China.,Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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15
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Adolf IC, Almars A, Dharsee N, Mselle T, Akan G, Nguma IJ, Nateri AS, Atalar F. HLA-G and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associations with cancer in African populations: Implications in personal medicine. Genes Dis 2021; 9:1220-1233. [PMID: 35873024 PMCID: PMC9293715 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays an important role in protecting the body against malignancy. During cancer immunoediting, the immune system can recognize and keep checking the tumor cells by down-expression of some self-molecules or by increasing expression of some novel molecules. However, the microenvironment created in the course of cancer development hampers the immune ability to recognize and destroy the transforming cells. Human Leukocyte Antigen G (HLA-G) is emerging as immune checkpoint molecule produced more by cancer cells to weaken the immune response against them. HLA-G is a non-classical HLA class I molecule which is normally expressed in immune privileged tissues as a soluble or membrane-bound protein. HLA-G locus is highly polymorphic in the non-coding 3′ untranslated region (UTR) and in the 5′ upstream regulatory region (5′ URR). HLA-G expression is controlled by polymorphisms located in these regions, and several association studies between these polymorphic sites and disease predisposition, response to therapy, and/or HLA-G protein expression have been reported. Various polymorphisms are demonstrated to modulate its expression and this is increasingly finding more significance in cancer biology. This review focuses on the relevance of the HLA-G gene and its polymorphisms in cancer development. We highlight population genetics of HLA-G as evidence to espouse the need and importance of exploring potential utility of HLA-G in cancer diagnosis, prognosis and immunotherapy in the currently understudied African population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Chatita Adolf
- Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, P.O Box 608, Tanzania
| | - Amany Almars
- Cancer Genetics & Stem Cell Group, BioDiscovery Institute, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Nazima Dharsee
- Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Department of Oncology, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 3592, Tanzania
| | - Teddy Mselle
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, MUHAS Genetic Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania
| | - Gokce Akan
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, MUHAS Genetic Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania
| | - Irene Jeremiah Nguma
- Clinical Oncology Department, Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital (MZRH), Mbeya P.O Box 419, Tanzania
| | - Abdolrahman S. Nateri
- Cancer Genetics & Stem Cell Group, BioDiscovery Institute, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Corresponding author.
| | - Fatmahan Atalar
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, MUHAS Genetic Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania
- Child Health Institute, Department of Rare Diseases, Istanbul University, Istanbul 34093, Turkey
- Corresponding author. Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, MUHAS Genetic Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, P.O Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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16
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Jaakola A, Roger M, Faucher MC, Syrjänen K, Grénman S, Syrjänen S, Louvanto K. HLA-G polymorphism impacts the outcome of oral HPV infections in women. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:419. [PMID: 33947339 PMCID: PMC8097798 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKROUND Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G may have an important role in the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Our aim was to evaluate the role of HLA-G in the outcome of genital and oral HPV infections in women. METHODS Analyses included 306 women from the Finnish Family HPV-study and were followed-up for six years. Genital and oral samples were tested for 24 different HPV types with multiplex HPV genotyping. HLA-G alleles were determined through direct DNA-sequencing. Unconditional logistic regression was used to determine the associations between HLA-G genotypes and HPV infection outcomes. RESULTS Ten HLA-G alleles were identified. Most common HLA-G genotypes were the wild type G*01:01:01/01:01:01 (31.3%) followed by G*01:01:01/01:01:02 (26.8%). G*01:01:01/01:01:01 genotype was associated with increased risk of oral HPV infections by any HPV type or single-type with OR = 1.86 (95% CI 1.14-3.04, P = 0.01) and 2.22 (95% CI 1.14-3.71, P = 0.02), respectively. G*04:01+ allele and the G*01:01:01/01:04:01 genotype both protected from any and single oral HPV infections; OR = 0.46 (95% CI 0.23-0.89, P = 0.02) and 0.53 (95% CI 0.23-0.97, P = 0.03), respectively. G*01:01:02/01:04:01 genotype increased significantly the risk of infertility and its treatments, with respective OR = 5.06 (95% CI 1.22-21.02, P = 0.03) and OR = 9.07 (95% CI 1.22-39.50, P = 0.03). Both HLA-G alleles and genotypes showed several significant associations with the outcomes of oral HPV infections, but none of them had any impact on the outcomes of genital HPV infections in these women. CONCLUSIONS The host HLA-G genotypes appear to impact the outcomes of oral HPV infections in women but have little if any effect on genital HPV status or infection outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jaakola
- Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kymenlaakso Central Hospital, Kotkantie 41, 48210, Kotka, Finland.
| | - Michel Roger
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montreal, Canada
- Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie,de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Kari Syrjänen
- Department of Clinical Research, Biohit Oyj, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Seija Grénman
- Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Stina Syrjänen
- Department of Oral Pathology and Radiology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Karolina Louvanto
- Department of Oral Pathology and Radiology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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Marletta S, Girolami I, Munari E, Pantanowitz L, Bernasconi R, Torresani E, Brunelli M, Eccher A. HLA-G expression in melanomas. Int Rev Immunol 2021; 40:330-343. [PMID: 33426980 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2020.1869732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is a non-classical HLA class I molecule involved in inducing tolerance at the feto-maternal interface and in escape of immune response by tumor cells. The aim of the study is to review the published literature on the expression of HLA-G in malignant melanomas and its clinicopathological and prognostic correlates. METHODS A systematic search was carried out in electronic databases. Studies dealing with HLA-G expression in surgically-removed human samples were retrieved and analyzed. RESULTS Of 1737 retrieved articles, 16 were included. The main themes regarded HLA-G expression in malignant melanocytic lesions, assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), soluble or molecular techniques, and its relationship with clinicopathological features, such as tumor thickness and malignant behavior. Overall significant HLA-G expression was found in 460/843 tumors (55%), and specifically in 251/556 melanomas (45%) evaluated with IHC, in 208/250 cases (83%) examined with soluble methods and in 13/23 melanoma lesions (57%) tested with polymerase chain reaction. Despite the correlation with parameters indicating an aggressive behavior, no studies demonstrated any prognostic value of HLA-G expression. Furthermore, uveal melanomas were constantly negative for this biomarker. CONCLUSION Overall, published data indicate that while HLA-G is involved in the interactions between melanomas and the immune system, it is unlikely to be the only factor to play such a role, therefore making it difficult to designate it as a prognostically relevant molecule. Evidence further suggests that HLA-G is not implicated in the immunobiology of uveal melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Marletta
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Munari
- Pathology Unit, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology & Clinical Labs, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Riccardo Bernasconi
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Evelin Torresani
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Liu L, Wang L, Zhao L, He C, Wang G. The Role of HLA-G in Tumor Escape: Manipulating the Phenotype and Function of Immune Cells. Front Oncol 2020; 10:597468. [PMID: 33425752 PMCID: PMC7786297 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.597468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a non-classical major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) molecule, and under physiological conditions, its expression is strictly restricted to the maternal–fetal interface and immune-privileged organs where HLA-G is expected to contribute to establishment and maintenance of immune tolerance. However, the expression of HLA-G has been found in various types of tumors, and the level of its expression frequently correlates with high-grade histology and poor prognosis, raising the possibility that it may play a negative role in tumor immunity. ILT2 and ILT4, present on a broad of immune cells, have been identified as the main receptors engaging HLA-G, and their interactions have been found to allow the conversion of effectors like NK cells and T cells to anergic or unresponsive state, activated DCs to tolerogenic state, and to drive the differentiation of T cells toward suppressive phenotype. Therefore, tumors can employ HLA-G to modulate the phenotype and function of immune cells, allowing them to escape immune attack. In this review, we discuss the mechanism underlying HLA-G expression and function, its role played in each step of the tumor-immunity cycle, as well as the potential to target it for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Center for Digestive Diseases, People's Hospital of Baoan District, The 8th People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, People's Hospital of Baoan District, The 8th People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, People's Hospital of Baoan District, The 8th People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lihong Zhao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chen He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ganlu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Center for Digestive Diseases, People's Hospital of Baoan District, The 8th People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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Understanding HLA-G driven journey from HPV infection to cancer cervix: Adding missing pieces to the jigsaw puzzle. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 142:103205. [PMID: 33099242 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a vital risk-factor for cancer cervix. However, persistent HPV infection results in cervical cancer in only a minority. Probably, HPV subdues the host immune response for persistence, which includes augmentation of HLA-G and plausibly aids in progression to cervical cancer. HLA-G, which comprises of membrane and soluble form, downregulates the host's immune response and generate tolerance. The current study aimed to analyze both forms of HLA-G in fresh tissue and plasma of women with HPV-infected and uninfected cervix and cancer cervix using Western blot and ELISA. The study cohort included 30 women with cervical carcinoma and equal number with normal cervix and 6 with HPV infected cervix. We observed a significant upregulation of membranous HLA-G expression in HPV infected cervix and cervical carcinoma (P < 0.001). Interestingly, the pairwise comparison of HLA-G tissue protein expression of the normal cervix and cervical carcinoma, as well as the normal cervix with HPV infected cervix, was significant (P < 0.001). Levels of soluble HLA-G were significantly raised in carcinoma cervix. We observed a progressive increase in HLA-G protein expression in HPV infected cervix and cervical carcinoma. These findings compel us to hypothesize that the upregulation of HLA-G expression favors the persistence of HPV in a microenvironment of a submissive host response. This progressive upregulation further leads to cervical cancer. Thus elimination of HPV infection seems to be a desirable proposition to prevent cervical cancer. In the absence of antiviral therapy for HPV, exploration of HLA-G antibody-based therapeutic strategies appear promising.
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20
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Loustau M, Anna F, Dréan R, Lecomte M, Langlade-Demoyen P, Caumartin J. HLA-G Neo-Expression on Tumors. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1685. [PMID: 32922387 PMCID: PMC7456902 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
HLA-G is known to modulate the immune system activity in tissues where physiological immune-tolerance is necessary (i.e., maternal-fetal interface, thymus, and cornea). However, the frequent neo-expression of HLA-G in many cancer types has been previously and extensively described and is correlated with a bad prognosis. Despite being an MHC class I molecule, HLA-G is highly present in tumor context and shows unique characteristics of tissue restriction of a Tumor Associated Antigen (TAA), and potent immunosuppressive activity of an Immune CheckPoint (ICP). Consequently, HLA-G appears to be an excellent molecular target for immunotherapy. Although the relevance of HLA-G in cancer incidence and development has been proven in numerous tumors, its neo-expression pattern is still difficult to determine. Indeed, the estimation of HLA-G's actual expression in tumor tissue is limited, particularly concerning the presence and percentage of the new non-canonical isoforms, for which detection antibodies are scarce or inexistent. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about HLA-G neo-expression and implication in various tumor types, pointing out the need for the development of new tools to analyze in-depth the HLA-G neo-expression patterns, opening the way for the generation of new monoclonal antibodies and cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - François Anna
- Invectys, Paris, France
- Molecular Virology and Vaccinology Unit, Virology Department, Institut Pasteur & CNRS URA 3015, Paris, France
| | - Raphaelle Dréan
- Invectys, Paris, France
- Molecular Retrovirology Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, UMR 3569, Paris, France
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21
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Xu HH, Yan WH, Lin A. The Role of HLA-G in Human Papillomavirus Infections and Cervical Carcinogenesis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1349. [PMID: 32670296 PMCID: PMC7330167 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G, a non-classical HLA-class I molecule, has a low polymorphism frequency, restricted tissue distribution and immunoinhibitory property. HLA-G expression in tumor cells and cells chronically infected with virus may enable them to escape from host immune surveillance. It is well-known that the HLA-G molecule is a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target that is relevant in various types of cancers, but its role in cervical cancer has not been fully explored. In this review, we aim to summarize and discuss the immunologic role of the HLA-G molecule in the context of HPV infections and the process of cervical cancer carcinogenesis. A better understanding of the potential impact of HLA-G on the clinical course of persistent HPV infections, cervical epithelial cell transformation, tumor growth, recurrence and metastasis is needed to identify a novel diagnostic/prognostic biomarker for cervical cancer, which is critical for cervical cancer risk screening. In addition, it is also necessary to identify HLA-G-driven immune mechanisms involved in the interactions between host and virus to explore novel immunotherapy strategies that target HLA-G/immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT) immune checkpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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22
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Ben Yahia H, Boujelbene N, Babay W, Ben Safta I, Dhouioui S, Zemni I, Ali Ayadi M, Charfi L, Ouzari HI, Rebmann V, Rizzo R, Mrad K, Driss M, Zidi I. Expression analysis of immune-regulatory molecules HLA-G, HLA-E and IDO in endometrial cancer. Hum Immunol 2020; 81:305-313. [PMID: 32273131 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2020.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
HLA-G has been widely implicated in advanced cancers through different pathways of immunosuppression allowing tumor escape. Contrarily, HLA-E has a controversial role in the tumor escape from the immune system. IDO catabolic enzyme is known to be up-regulated in many tumors types allowing their immune escape. Based on these considerations, we investigated the expression of HLA-G, HLA-E and IDO molecules in endometrial cancer (EC) and their association with prognostic clinicopathologic parameters. Their expression were checked in tumoral and adjacent endometrial tissues. Both HLA-G and IDO immunostaining were significantly increased in EC tissues compared to normal residual endometrial glands (Mann Whitney U-test, p = 0.0001 and p = 0,020 respectively). However, HLA-E was highly expressed in tumoral tissues as well as in normal residual endometrial glands (respectively, 100% and 81.8%). Increased HLA-G expression levels were observed in high histological grade (grade 3), and in the non-endometrioid type 2 EC. Unexpectedly, patients with IDO Low expression had significantly impaired overall survival compared to patients with IDO High (log-rank p = 0.021). Conversely, HLA-E low expression was associated to an improved overall survival EC (log-rank p = 0.004). We concluded that, HLA-G and IDO are highly expressed in EC compared to adjacent normal endometrial tissues, that might be interesting for the EC outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Ben Yahia
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nadia Boujelbene
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Anatomopathology, Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Wafa Babay
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Inès Ben Safta
- Surgical Oncology Department, Salah Azaiz Institute of Cancer, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sabrine Dhouioui
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Inès Zemni
- Surgical Oncology Department, Salah Azaiz Institute of Cancer, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Ali Ayadi
- Surgical Oncology Department, Salah Azaiz Institute of Cancer, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lamia Charfi
- Department of Anatomopathology, Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hadda Imene Ouzari
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Vera Rebmann
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Karima Mrad
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Anatomopathology, Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Maha Driss
- Department of Anatomopathology, Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Inès Zidi
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.
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Szubert S, Dziobek K, Wicherek Ł. High post-treatment serum soluble receptor-binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells (sRCAS1) levels is associated with poor survival of patients with cervical cancer. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:499-506. [PMID: 31953916 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM Receptor-binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells (sRCAS1) is responsible for induction of selective immunosuppression. In addition, preclinical studies have shown that sRCAS1 levels may reflect cancer aggressiveness. The main aim of our study was to analyze pre- and post-treatment levels of sRCAS1 in the sera of patients treated for cervical cancer and to evaluate whether the levels change during treatment and their impact on patient prognosis. METHODS The study included 49 patients suffering from cervical cancer. The early stage cervical cancer patients (14) were treated surgically, while the advanced stage patients (35) underwent radiochemotherapy. Serum sRCAS1 levels were evaluated both before and after intervention with the use of the ELISA method. RESULTS We have found that median serum sRCAS1 levels of patients before intervention were not significantly different from the levels assessed after intervention. There were also no differences when pre- and post-treatment levels were compared within the group of early and of advanced stage patients. Serum sRCAS1 levels were not influenced by either the histopathological type of the tumor or the methods of treatment. High post-intervention sRCAS1 levels indicated shortened OS when compared to low sRCAS1 levels. Neither pre-intervention sRCAS1 levels nor the alteration in sRCAS1 levels during treatment were associated with patient prognosis. In multivariate analysis, post-treatment sRCAS1 levels and clinical stage of cervical cancer remained as independent predictors of survival. CONCLUSION High post-treatment serum sRCAS1 level in cervical cancer patients seems to be a negative prognostic factor for patient overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Szubert
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Konrad Dziobek
- Center of Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology Department, M. Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Institute, Krakow, Poland
| | - Łukasz Wicherek
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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24
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Adolf IC, Akan G, Mselle TF, Dharsee N, Namkinga LA, Atalar F. Implication of Soluble HLA-G and HLA-G +3142G/C Polymorphism in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Adjuvant Therapy in Tanzania. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2019; 20:3465-3472. [PMID: 31759373 PMCID: PMC7062990 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2019.20.11.3465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During cancer growth, immunosuppressive microenvironment is created that enables tumour cells to evade an eliminative immune response and hence manage to grow into malignancy. HLA-G, existing as either membrane-bound (mHLA-G) or soluble (sHLA-G) molecule is thought to be immunosuppressive and produced more by tumor cells. The +3142G/C polymorphism in HLA-G gene affects its expression, and G allele is considered to be a protective mutant allele associated with less expression of HLA-G. The implication of HLA-G in cancer development has been reported in different cancers and populations. But, its implication in most African populations has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the possible associations of soluble HLA-G and HLA-G +3142G/C SNP with breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS 75 breast cancer patients and 84 normal controls were recruited in this study. The genotyping of HLA-G +3142G/C polymorphism was determined by LightSNiP typing assay using quantitative Real-Time PCR and sHLA-G levels were determined by ELISA. RESULTS The sHLA-G levels were significantly lower in breast cancer patients than in controls (p<0.001). Also, they were significantly lower in mastectomized patients compared to non-mastectomized patients (p=0.018). The ROC analysis revealed a significant ability of sHLA-G to differentiate breast cancer patients versus normal controls (AUC=0.697, 95% CI= 0.619-0.767, p<0.001) and identify mastectomized patients (AUC=0.667, 95% CI= 0.549 to 0.772, p=0.041). The assessment of +3142G/C polymorphism revealed a relatively similar distribution of frequencies of genotypes and alleles between breast cancer patients and normal controls (p>0.05) and was neither associated with sHLA-G levels. CONCLUSION While the +3142G/C SNP was found not to be relevant to breast cancer, the changes of sHLA-G levels in response to medical interventions such as mastectomy may be translated into its potential prognostic utility for breast cancer. More studies are needed to provide clear evidence of sHLA-G as a diagnostic and prognostic marker of breast cancer in Tanzania. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Chatita Adolf
- Department of Biochemistry, MUHAS Genetics Laboratory, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences,
- University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences,
| | - Gokce Akan
- Department of Biochemistry, MUHAS Genetics Laboratory, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences,
| | - Teddy F Mselle
- Department of Biochemistry, MUHAS Genetics Laboratory, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences,
| | | | - Lucy A Namkinga
- University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences,
| | - Fatmahan Atalar
- Department of Biochemistry, MUHAS Genetics Laboratory, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences,
- 4Child Health Institute, Department of Medical Genetics, Istanbul University, Turkey.
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25
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Riera-Domingo C, Audigé A, Granja S, Cheng WC, Ho PC, Baltazar F, Stockmann C, Mazzone M. Immunity, Hypoxia, and Metabolism-the Ménage à Trois of Cancer: Implications for Immunotherapy. Physiol Rev 2019; 100:1-102. [PMID: 31414610 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00018.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It is generally accepted that metabolism is able to shape the immune response. Only recently we are gaining awareness that the metabolic crosstalk between different tumor compartments strongly contributes to the harsh tumor microenvironment (TME) and ultimately impairs immune cell fitness and effector functions. The major aims of this review are to provide an overview on the immune system in cancer; to position oxygen shortage and metabolic competition as the ground of a restrictive TME and as important players in the anti-tumor immune response; to define how immunotherapies affect hypoxia/oxygen delivery and the metabolic landscape of the tumor; and vice versa, how oxygen and metabolites within the TME impinge on the success of immunotherapies. By analyzing preclinical and clinical endeavors, we will discuss how a metabolic characterization of the TME can identify novel targets and signatures that could be exploited in combination with standard immunotherapies and can help to predict the benefit of new and traditional immunotherapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Riera-Domingo
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Annette Audigé
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Sara Granja
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Wan-Chen Cheng
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Ping-Chih Ho
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Christian Stockmann
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Ludwig Cancer Research Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
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Jiang Y, Li W, Lu J, Zhao X, Li L. HLA-G +3142 C>G polymorphism and cancer risk: Evidence from a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e16067. [PMID: 31232944 PMCID: PMC6636957 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000016067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) plays an important role in the development of human cancers. Several published studies have investigated the relationship between the HLA-G +3142 C>G (rs1063320) polymorphism and cancer susceptibility in different populations. However, the results have yet to reach a consensus in different types of cancers. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of the HLA-G +3142 C>G polymorphism on cancer risk. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases to acquire eligible studies up to February 20, 2019. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the correlation between the HLA-G +3142 C>G polymorphism and cancer risk in a fixed-effects or random-effects model. Publication bias assessments, sensitivity analysis and stratified analyses were performed. To reduce the risk of type I error and assess whether the present evidence of the results was adequate and conclusive, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was also performed. RESULTS Eight case-control studies comprising 1546 cases and 1595 controls were included in the present meta-analysis. The results revealed that the HLA-G +3142 C>G mutation significantly decreased the total cancer risk in recessive comparison model and allelic comparison model. Further stratified analyses showed that the HLA-G +3142 C>G mutation significantly decreases the risk of cancer in Asian populations. No similar relationship was found in other subgroups. No publication bias was identified in our present study. Omitting a single study at a time had no significant impact on the pooled OR of the sensitivity analysis assessing the association between the HLA-G +3142 C>G polymorphism and cancer risk, which demonstrates the stability of the current meta-analysis. TSA also identified our current findings. CONCLUSIONS The results of our meta-analysis show that the HLA-G +3142 C>G polymorphism plays a protect role in the occurrence of human cancers, particularly in Asian populations. More case-control studies with different types of cancer in various ethnicities are needed to verify the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital
| | - Wenbo Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Emergency, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital
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Jiang Y, Lu J, Wu YE, Zhao X, Li L. Genetic variation in the HLA-G 3'UTR 14-bp insertion/deletion and the associated cancer risk: evidence from 25 case-control studies. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20181991. [PMID: 30962267 PMCID: PMC6509057 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leucocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) plays an important role in the progression of human cancers. A growing number of published studies have investigated the correlation between the HLA-G 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) 14-bp insertion/deletion (Ins/Del) polymorphism and the associated cancer risk in different populations. However, results from previous studies are inconclusive and inconsistent for the different type of cancers. Therefore, we undertook a meta-analysis to assess the effects of the HLA-G 14-bp Ins/Del polymorphism on cancer risk. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases to obtain relevant studies up to 28 January 2019. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used. Twenty-five published case-control studies comprising 4981 cases and 6391 controls were included in the current meta-analysis. The results of the overall analysis revealed that the HLA-G 14-bp Ins/Ins genotype and Ins allele were associated with the total cancer risk in the homozygote comparison model (Ins/Ins vs. Del/Del: OR = 0.80, CI = 0.64-1.00; P=0.049) and the allelic comparison model (Ins vs. Del: OR = 0.89, CI = 0.81-0.99; P=0.035), with a protective role. Further subgroup analyses indicated that the HLA-G 14-bp Ins/Del polymorphism was associated with the risk of breast cancer and oesophageal cancer (EC), and significant risk of cancer was also observed in Mixed populations and population-based (PB). The results of our meta-analysis show that the HLA-G 14-bp Ins/Del polymorphism plays an important role in cancer risk, particularly in breast cancer and esophageal cancer in Mixed populations. Additional case-control studies with different types of cancer spanning different ethnicities are needed to extend the present findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
| | - Yue-E Wu
- Department of Electrocardiogram Diagnosis, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230060, Anhui, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Liang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Second People's Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230011, Anhui, China
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Würfel FM, Winterhalter C, Trenkwalder P, Wirtz RM, Würfel W. European Patent in Immunoncology: From Immunological Principles of Implantation to Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081830. [PMID: 31013867 PMCID: PMC6514949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The granted European patent EP 2 561 890 describes a procedure for an immunological treatment of cancer. It is based on the principles of the HLA-supported communication of implantation and pregnancy. These principles ensure that the embryo is not rejected by the mother. In pregnancy, the placenta, more specifically the trophoblast, creates an “interface” between the embryo/fetus and the maternal immune system. Trophoblasts do not express the “original” HLA identification of the embryo/fetus (HLA-A to -DQ), but instead show the non-classical HLA groups E, F, and G. During interaction with specific receptors of NK cells (e.g., killer-immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR)) and lymphocytes (lymphocyte-immunoglobulin-like receptors (LIL-R)), the non-classical HLA groups inhibit these immunocompetent cells outside pregnancy. However, tumors are known to be able to express these non-classical HLA groups and thus make use of an immuno-communication as in pregnancies. If this occurs, the prognosis usually worsens. This patent describes, in a first step, the profiling of the non-classical HLA groups in primary tumor tissue as well as metastases and recurrent tumors. The second step comprises tailored antibody therapies, which is the subject of this patent. In this review, we analyze the underlying mechanisms and describe the currently known differences between HLA-supported communication of implantation and that of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska M Würfel
- STRATIFYER Molecular Pathology GmbH, D-50935 Cologne, Werthmannstrasse 1c, 50935 Cologne, Germany.
| | | | | | - Ralph M Wirtz
- STRATIFYER Molecular Pathology GmbH, D-50935 Cologne, Werthmannstrasse 1c, 50935 Cologne, Germany.
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Yeung HY, Dendrou CA. Pregnancy Immunogenetics and Genomics: Implications for Pregnancy-Related Complications and Autoimmune Disease. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2019; 20:73-97. [PMID: 30848957 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-083118-014943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy presents a singular physiological scenario during which the maternal immune system must accommodate the semiallogeneic fetus. Fluctuations between pro- and anti-inflammatory states are required throughout gestation to facilitate uterine tissue remodeling, fetal growth and development, and finally birth. Tolerance for the fetus must be established and maintained without fundamentally compromising the maternal immune system function, so that both the mother and fetus are protected from foreign insults. Here, we review our current understanding of how genetic variation at both maternal and fetal loci affects implantation and placenta formation, thereby determining the likelihood of a successful pregnancy outcome or the development of pregnancy-related complications. We also consider the impact of pregnancy on both the maternal and fetal systemic immune systems and the related implications for modulating ongoing autoimmune diseases and triggering their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hing-Yuen Yeung
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom;
| | - Calliope A Dendrou
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom;
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Xu HH, Zhang X, Zheng HH, Han QY, Lin AF, Yan WH. Association of HLA-G 3' UTR polymorphism and expression with the progression of cervical lesions in human papillomavirus 18 infections. Infect Agent Cancer 2018; 13:42. [PMID: 30619504 PMCID: PMC6311041 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-018-0217-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is an immune checkpoint molecule, which expression in cervical cancer cells enables them to escape immunosurveillance. To date, limited information has been published on the association of HLA-G genetic background in malignant cells with levels of HLA-G expression and the clinical outcome of patients. Methods We investigated the influence of the HLA-G 14 bp In/Del (rs66554220) and + 3142C/G (rs1063320) polymorphisms in 130 cases of HPV16 infection, 130 cases of HPV18 infection and 185 age-matched, unrelated, HPV-negative, and cytologically normal Chinese Han women. Case-matched cervical biopsy tissues were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results Our findings show that the frequency of alleles, 14 bp In (38.5% vs 29.2%, OR = 1.52, P < 0.05) and + 3142G (72.7% vs 57.0%, OR = 2.01, P < 0.05), were significantly increased in the HPV18-infected group compared with the control group. The HLA-G polymorphisms (alleles 14 bp In and + 3142G) are also associated with the progression of HPV18-related cervical lesions. Moreover, HLA-G expression increased from CIN1 to CIN2/3 lesions and was highest in patients with adenocarcinoma; however, a significant association between these characteristics and the HLA-G polymorphisms was not observed. Conclusion Our results support that the HLA-G 14 bp In and + 3142G alleles are risk factors for HPV18 infections and influence the progression of HPV18-related cervical lesions. This suggests that HLA-G-driven immune mechanisms play an important role in cervical carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Xu
- 1Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China.,2Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- 3Human Tissue Bank, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hai-Hong Zheng
- 4Department of Pathology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiu-Yue Han
- 3Human Tissue Bank, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ai-Fen Lin
- 3Human Tissue Bank, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- 1Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China.,2Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, China
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Walentowicz-Sadlecka M, Dziobek K, Grabiec M, Sadlecki P, Walentowicz P, Mak P, Szymankiewicz M, Kwinta P, Dutsch-Wicherek M. The analysis of human leukocyte antigen-G level in patients with endometrial cancer by Western blot technique. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 81:e13070. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.13070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Walentowicz-Sadlecka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz; Nicolaus Copernicus University; Bydgoszcz Poland
| | - Konrad Dziobek
- Center of Oncology; M. Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Institute, Krakow Branch; Kraków Poland
| | - Marek Grabiec
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz; Nicolaus Copernicus University; Bydgoszcz Poland
| | - Pawel Sadlecki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz; Nicolaus Copernicus University; Bydgoszcz Poland
| | - Pawel Walentowicz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz; Nicolaus Copernicus University; Bydgoszcz Poland
| | - Paweł Mak
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology; Jagiellonian University; Krakow Poland
| | - Maria Szymankiewicz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz; Nicolaus Copernicus University; Bydgoszcz Poland
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Lin A, Yan WH. Heterogeneity of HLA-G Expression in Cancers: Facing the Challenges. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2164. [PMID: 30319626 PMCID: PMC6170620 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic heterogeneity has been observed in most malignancies, which represents a considerable challenge for tumor therapy. In recent decades, the biological function and clinical significance of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G have been intensively explored. It is now widely accepted that HLA-G is a critical marker of immunotolerance in cancer cell immune evasion and is strongly associated with disease progress and prognosis for cancer patients. Moreover, it has recently been emphasized that the signaling pathway linking HLA-G and immunoglobulin-like transcripts (ILTs) is considered an immune checkpoint. In addition, HLA-G itself can generate at least seven distinct isoforms, and intertumor and intratumor heterogeneity of HLA-G expression is common across different tumor types. Furthermore, HLA-G heterogeneity in cancers has been related to disease stage and outcomes, metastatic status and response to different therapies. This review focuses on the heterogeneity of HLA-G expression in malignant lesions, and clinical implications of this heterogeneity that might be relevant to personalized treatments are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifen Lin
- Biological Resource Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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Li Y, Patel SP, Roszik J, Qin Y. Hypoxia-Driven Immunosuppressive Metabolites in the Tumor Microenvironment: New Approaches for Combinational Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1591. [PMID: 30061885 PMCID: PMC6054965 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is not only a prominent contributor to the heterogeneity of solid tumors but also a crucial stressor in the microenvironment to drive adaptations for tumors to evade immunosurveillance. Herein, we discuss the potential role of hypoxia within the microenvironment contributing to immune resistance and immune suppression of tumor cells. We outline recent discoveries of hypoxia-driven adaptive mechanisms that diminish immune cell response via skewing the expression of important immune checkpoint molecules (e.g., cluster of differentiation 47, programmed death ligand 1, and human leukocyte antigen G), altered metabolism and metabolites, and pH regulation. Importantly, inhibition of hypoxic stress-relevant pathways can collectively enhance T-cell-mediated tumor cell killing. Furthermore, we discuss how manipulation of hypoxia stress may pose a promising new strategy for a combinational therapeutic intervention to enhance immunotherapy of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiliang Li
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Sapna Pradyuman Patel
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jason Roszik
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yong Qin
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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34
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Florea ID, Karaoulani C. Epigenetic Changes of the Immune System with Role in Tumor Development. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1856:203-218. [PMID: 30178253 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8751-1_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tumor development is closely related to chronic inflammation and to evasion of immune defense mechanisms by neoplastic cells. The mediators of the inflammatory process as well as proteins involved in immune response or immune response evasion can be subject to various epigenetic changes such as methylation, acetylation, or phosphorylation. Some of these, such as cytokine suppressors, are undergoing repression through epigenetic changes, and others such as cytokines or chemokines are undergoing activation through epigenetic changes, both modifications having as a result tumor progression. The activating changes can affect the receptor molecules involved in immune response and these promote inflammation and subsequently tumor development while the inactivating changes seem to be related to the tumor regression process. The proteins involved in antigen presentation, and, therefore in immune response escape, such as classical HLA proteins and related APM (antigen presentation machinery) with their epigenetic changes contribute to the tumor development process, either to tumor progression or regression, depending on the immune effector cells that are in play.
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35
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Zhang Y, Yu S, Han Y, Wang Y, Sun Y. Human leukocyte antigen-G expression and polymorphisms promote cancer development and guide cancer diagnosis/treatment. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:699-709. [PMID: 29399142 PMCID: PMC5772757 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a non-classical HLA molecule, predominantly expressed in cytotrophoblast cells to protect the fetus during pregnancy. Notably, a high frequency of HLA-G expression has been observed in a wide variety of cancer types in previous studies. Furthermore, HLA-G expression in cancer has been considered to be detrimental, since it can protect cancer cells from natural killer cell cytotoxic T lymphocyte-mediated destruction, promote tumor spreading and shorten the survival time of patients by facilitating tumor immune evasion. In addition, HLA-G polymorphisms have been investigated in numerous types of cancer and are considered as risk factors and predictive markers of cancer. This review focuses on HLA-G expression and its polymorphisms in cancer, analyzing the mechanisms of HLA-G in promoting cancer development, and evaluating the potential and value of its clinical application as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker, or even as a prospective therapeutic target in certain types of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China.,Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
| | - Shuwen Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
| | - Yali Han
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
| | - Yunshan Wang
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
| | - Yuping Sun
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
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Clinical Value of Human Leucocyte Antigen G (HLA-G) Expression in the Prognosis of Colorectal Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER MANAGEMENT 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/ijcm.9346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Ferreira LMR, Meissner TB, Tilburgs T, Strominger JL. HLA-G: At the Interface of Maternal-Fetal Tolerance. Trends Immunol 2017; 38:272-286. [PMID: 28279591 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, semiallogeneic fetal extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) invade the uterine mucosa without being rejected by the maternal immune system. Several mechanisms were initially proposed by Peter Medawar half a century ago to explain this apparent violation of the laws of transplantation. Then, three decades ago, an unusual human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecule was identified: HLA-G. Uniquely expressed in EVT, HLA-G has since become the center of the present understanding of fetus-induced immune tolerance. Despite slow progress in the field, the last few years have seen an explosion in our knowledge of HLA-G biology. Here, we critically review new insights into the mechanisms controlling the expression and function of HLA-G at the maternal-fetal interface, and discuss their relevance for fetal tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo M R Ferreira
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Torsten B Meissner
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Tamara Tilburgs
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Jack L Strominger
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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Martinez J, Santiago MR, Martelli-Palomino G, Souza DAD, Silva TGA, Silva GEB, Chahud F, Donadi EA, Fernandes APM. Expression of HLA-E molecules in the placental tissue of women infected with HIV-1 and uninfected women. Placenta 2017; 49:33-36. [PMID: 28012452 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.08.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Expression of HLA-E molecule in the placental extravillous trophoblast is associated with immune system cell inhibition, resulting in immune tolerance to fetus during pregnancy. HIV-1 can infect trophoblast cells and modify the expression of HLA-E, which may inhibit the cytotoxic activity of the immune system. AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate HLA-E expression in third trimester placental tissue of women infected with HIV-1 and uninfected women. METHODS We performed an immunohistochemistry assay to evaluate HLA-E staining in the placental tissue of 99 HIV-1 infected and 85 uninfected women. A pathologist analyzed and classified the HLA-E expression in the placental cells. RESULTS Irrespective of the HIV status, HLA-E staining was observed in the extravillous trophoblast cells, endothelial cells and Hofbauer cells, but not in the syncytiotrophoblast. HLA-E staining showed no significant difference between the placental tissue of women infected with HIV-1 and uninfected women (P = 0.76). Considering HIV-1 infected women, HLA-E staining was not influenced by HIV-1 viral load (P = 0.48), CD4+ T-cell count (P = 0.10) and antiretroviral therapy used during pregnancy (P = 0.54). DISCUSSION Despite the presence of HIV-1 infection, the expression of HLA-E molecules in the placental tissue was not modified when the infection was under antiretroviral therapy control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Martinez
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, General and Specialized Nursing Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, CEP 14040-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Rodrigues Santiago
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, General and Specialized Nursing Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, CEP 14040-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Martelli-Palomino
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil
| | - Diego Agra de Souza
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Pathology Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Társia Giabardo Alves Silva
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Rodovia Araraquara, Jaú Km 1, Campos Ville, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Gyl Eanes Barros Silva
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Pathology Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Chahud
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Pathology Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Antônio Donadi
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Medical Clinical Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Morais Fernandes
- University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, General and Specialized Nursing Department, Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 3900, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, CEP 14040-902, SP, Brazil.
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Cordeiro JC, da Silva JS, Roxo VS, da Graça Bicalho M. A pilot study on Hla-G locus control region haplotypes and cervical intraepithelial neoplasias. Hum Immunol 2016; 78:281-286. [PMID: 27998803 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) can induce cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN) grades 1, 2 and 3. Untreated, these lesions may progress to cervical cancer (CC) which is the third most common cancer in women worldwide. HLA-G plays an immunotolerant role in the immune response. The aim of this study was to characterize the configuration of SNPs located at the distal promoter of HLA-G in patients with CIN2 and CIN3 and control women. The study sample was composed of 207 women as follows: 73 diagnosed with CIN2 lesions, 56 with CIN3 and 78 healthy control women. Genotyping was performed by sequence base typing. Eleven haplotype configurations subdivided in two main haplogroups (H1dist and H2dist), were characterized and compared between patients and controls. The haplotypes H1.1Dist (GAGAACGC) and H2.1Dist (AGGTACAC) were more frequent in Euro-Descendants as well as in Brazilian Mixed. Nevertheless, the haplotype H2.1Dist standed out as a susceptibility haplotype in Brazilian Mixed patients while the H1.1Dist presented a protector effect in this same ethnic group. Whether such LCR haplotype configurations can impact on HLA-G gene expression levels in women who developed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is still unknown and it is of utmost importance that more investigation on this field be pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Cochesnki Cordeiro
- Laboratório de Imunogenética e Histocompatibilidade - LIGH, Departamento de Genética, Centro Politécnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná-UFPR, Av. Coronel Francisco H. dos Santos, Jardim das Américas, CEP: 81530990, Caixa Postal 19071, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Jose Samuel da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunogenética e Histocompatibilidade - LIGH, Departamento de Genética, Centro Politécnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná-UFPR, Av. Coronel Francisco H. dos Santos, Jardim das Américas, CEP: 81530990, Caixa Postal 19071, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Valeria Sperandio Roxo
- Laboratório de Imunogenética e Histocompatibilidade - LIGH, Departamento de Genética, Centro Politécnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná-UFPR, Av. Coronel Francisco H. dos Santos, Jardim das Américas, CEP: 81530990, Caixa Postal 19071, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Maria da Graça Bicalho
- Laboratório de Imunogenética e Histocompatibilidade - LIGH, Departamento de Genética, Centro Politécnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná-UFPR, Av. Coronel Francisco H. dos Santos, Jardim das Américas, CEP: 81530990, Caixa Postal 19071, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
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Lin A, Yan WH. Human Leukocyte Antigen-G (HLA-G) Expression in Cancers: Roles in Immune Evasion, Metastasis and Target for Therapy. Mol Med 2015; 21:782-791. [PMID: 26322846 PMCID: PMC4749493 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2015.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant induction of human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) expression has been observed in various malignancies and is strongly associated with tumor immune escape, metastasis and poor prognosis. To date, great achievements have been made in understanding the underlying mechanisms of HLA-G involved in tumor progression. HLA-G could lead to tumor evasion by inhibition of immune cell cytolysis, differentiation and proliferation and inhibition of cytokine production, induction of immune cell apoptosis, generation of regulatory cells and expansion of myeloid-derived suppressive cells and by impairment of chemotaxis. Moreover, HLA-G could arm tumor cells with a higher invasive and metastatic potential with the upregulation of tumor-promoting factor expression such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), indicating that ectopic HLA-G expression could render multiple effects during the progression of malignancies. In this review, we summarized the mechanisms of HLA-G involved in promoting tumor cell immune escaping, metastasis and disease progression. Special attention will be paid to its significance as an attractive therapeutic target in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifen Lin
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-Hua Yan
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
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Samuels S, Ferns DM, Meijer D, van Straalen JP, Buist MR, Zijlmans HJ, Kenter GG, Jordanova ES. High levels of soluble MICA are significantly related to increased disease-free and disease-specific survival in patients with cervical adenocarcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 85:476-83. [PMID: 25871737 DOI: 10.1111/tan.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Downregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related molecule A (MICA) and upregulation of human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) on the tumor cells are important immune escape mechanisms for different epithelial tumors. In addition, upregulation of the soluble forms of the latter molecules in serum leads to peripheral T-cell and natural killer (NK)-cell tolerance. As for cervical cancer, it remains unknown whether soluble MICA (sMICA) and soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) concentrations are related to tumor characteristics or patient survival rates. We measured sMICA and sHLA-G in pre-treatment sera of a large cohort of cervical cancer patients (n = 366) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We detected a median sMICA of 174.73 pg/ml and a median sHLA-G of 5.35 U/ml. We did not find an association between sHLA-G levels and clinicopathological characteristics. In adenocarcinoma, low sMICA concentration was positively related to recurrent disease, a higher International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage and vaginal involvement (Mann-Whitney U-test; P = 0.018, P = 0.042 and P = 0.013, respectively). In the latter patient group, high sMICA levels were associated with better disease-free survival (DFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) (P = 0.011 and P = 0.047). After adjusting for confounding factors, high sMICA proved to be an independent predictor for a better DFS and DSS [HR 0.16; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04-0.64; P = 0.009 and HR 0.12; 95% CI 0.03-0.50; P = 0.004]. sHLA-G did not influence survival in cervical cancer patients, regardless of histology. We conclude that cervical adenocarcinoma patients with high sMICA levels have an increased DFS and DSS. This data warrants a prospective trial to study the functional role of sMICA in cervical adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Samuels
- Department of Gynecology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek (in collaboratation within the Centre for Gynecologic Oncology Amsterdam (CGOA)), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Gimenes F, Teixeira JJV, de Abreu ALP, Souza RP, Pereira MW, da Silva VRS, Bôer CG, Maria-Engler SS, Bonini MG, Borelli SD, Consolaro MEL. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G and cervical cancer immunoediting: a candidate molecule for therapeutic intervention and prognostic biomarker? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2014; 1846:576-89. [PMID: 25453366 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2014.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While persistent infection with oncogenic types of human Papillomavirus (HPV) is required for cervical epithelial cell transformation and cervical carcinogenesis, HPV infection alone is not sufficient to induce tumorigenesis. Only a minor fraction of HPV infections produce high-grade lesions and cervical cancer, suggesting complex host-virus interactions. Based on its pronounced immunoinhibitory properties, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G has been proposed as a possible prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target relevant in a wide variety of cancers and viral infections, but to date remains underexplored in cervical cancer. Given the possible influence of HLA-G on the clinical course of HPV infection, cervical lesions and cancer progression, a better understanding of HLA-G involvement in cervical carcinogenesis might contribute to two aspects of fundamental importance: 1. Characterization of a novel diagnostic/prognostic biomarker to identify cervical cancer and to monitor disease stage, critical for patient screening; 2. Identification of HLA-G-driven immune mechanisms involved in lesion development and cancer progression, leading to the development of strategies for modulating HLA-G expression for treatment purposes. Thus, this systematic review explores the potential involvement of HLA-G protein expression and polymorphisms in cervical carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrícia Gimenes
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jorge Juarez Vieira Teixeira
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - André Luelsdorf Pimenta de Abreu
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Raquel Pantarotto Souza
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Monalisa Wolski Pereira
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Vânia Ramos Sela da Silva
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Cinthia Gandolfi Bôer
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Silvya Stuchi Maria-Engler
- Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508000 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Gialluisi Bonini
- College of Medicine, Departments of Medicine, Pharmacology and Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 60612 Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sueli Donizete Borelli
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Basic Health Sciences, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil
| | - Márcia Edilaine Lopes Consolaro
- Laboratory of Clinical Cytology, Department of Clinical Analysis and Biomedicine, State University of Maringá, 87020900 Paraná, Brazil.
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Ge YZ, Ge Q, Li MH, Shi GM, Xu X, Xu LW, Xu Z, Lu TZ, Wu R, Zhou LH, Wu JP, Liang K, Dou QL, Zhu JG, Li WC, Jia RP. Association between human leukocyte antigen-G 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism and cancer risk: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Hum Immunol 2014; 75:827-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Xu HH, Shi WW, Lin A, Yan WH. HLA-G 3' untranslated region polymorphisms influence the susceptibility for human papillomavirus infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 84:216-22. [PMID: 24758208 DOI: 10.1111/tan.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Revised: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G molecule acts as a potential factor for the regulation of immune responses and its expression in virus-infected cells may enable them to escape immunosurveillance. Besides its polymorphic promoter region, the 3' untranslated region (UTR) seems to play an important role in regulating HLA-G expression. In this study, we investigated the influence of HLA-G 14 bp (rs66554220) and +3142 (rs1063320) polymorphisms in 179 women with active human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and 143 age-matched, unrelated, HPV-negative, normal Chinese Han population. Our findings showed that frequency of the allele +3142 C [31.3% vs 44.4%, odds ratio (OR) = 0.57, Pc < 0.01] and the genotype +3142 CC (10.6% vs 21.7%, OR = 0.43, Pc = 0.012) was significantly decreased in HPV infected patients compared with normal controls. Furthermore, the haplotype -14 bp/C was associated with a reduced risk for HPV infection (OR = 0.57, Pc = 0.001). Our findings also showed that HLA-G homozygous +14 bp/+14 bp genotype was significantly associated with an increased risk for HPV18 infection (OR = 12.95, P < 0.01), whereas HLA-G heterozygous +14 bp/-14 bp genotype increased risk for HPV58 (OR = 5.55, P < 0.05). Furthermore, frequency of the haplotype +14 bp/G was significantly increased in HPV18 infected patients (60.0% vs 27.3%, OR = 4.00, Pc < 0.05). Taken together, our results supported a role of the HLA-G 3' UTR polymorphisms as a susceptible factor for the active HPV infection, and suggested a possible interference of the HLA-G molecule in the response to virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-H Xu
- Medical Research Center, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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Zhang WQ, Xu DP, Liu D, Li YY, Ruan YY, Lin A, Yan WH. HLA-G1 and HLA-G5 isoforms have an additive effect on NK cytolysis. Hum Immunol 2014; 75:182-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2013.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Revised: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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van Esch EMG, Tummers B, Baartmans V, Osse EM, Ter Haar N, Trietsch MD, Hellebrekers BWJ, Holleboom CAG, Nagel HTC, Tan LT, Fleuren GJ, van Poelgeest MIE, van der Burg SH, Jordanova ES. Alterations in classical and nonclassical HLA expression in recurrent and progressive HPV-induced usual vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and implications for immunotherapy. Int J Cancer 2014; 135:830-42. [PMID: 24415578 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy of usual vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN) is promising; however, many patients still fail to show clinical responses, which could be explained by an immune escape through alterations in human leukocyte antigen (HLA) expression. Therefore, we analyzed a cohort of patients with a primary (n = 43) and subsequent recurrent uVIN lesion (n = 20), vaccine-treated uVIN patients (n = 12), patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced vulvar carcinoma (n = 21) and healthy controls (n = 26) for the expression of classical HLA-class I/II and nonclassical HLA-E/-G and MHC class I chain-related molecule A (MICA). HLA-class I was downregulated in 70% of uVIN patients, including patients with a clinical response to immunotherapy. Downregulation of HLA-class I is probably reversible, as only 15% of the uVIN cases displayed loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and HLA-class I could be upregulated in uVIN keratinocyte cultures by interferon γ. HLA-class I downregulation is more frequently associated with LOH in vulvar carcinomas (25-55.5%). HLA-class II was found to be focally expressed in 65% of uVIN patients. Of the nonclassical molecules, MICA was downregulated in 80% of uVIN whereas HLA-E and -G were expressed in a minority of cases. Their expression was more prominent in vulvar carcinoma. No differences were found between the alterations observed in paired primary and recurrent uVIN. Importantly, downregulation of HLA-B/C in primary uVIN lesions was associated with the development of recurrences and progression to cancer. We conclude that downregulation of HLA is frequently observed in premalignant HPV-induced lesions, including clinical responders to immunotherapy, and is associated with worse clinical outcome. However, in the majority of cases downregulation may still be reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M G van Esch
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Rotola A, Di Luca D, Rizzo R. Implication of HLA-G 3′ untranslated region polymorphisms in human papillomavirus infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 83:113-8. [DOI: 10.1111/tan.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Revised: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. Bortolotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics; University of Ferrara; Ferrara Italy
| | - V. Gentili
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics; University of Ferrara; Ferrara Italy
| | - A. Rotola
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics; University of Ferrara; Ferrara Italy
| | - D. Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics; University of Ferrara; Ferrara Italy
| | - R. Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics; University of Ferrara; Ferrara Italy
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Yang YC, Chang TY, Chen TC, Lin WS, Chang SC, Lee YJ. Human leucocyte antigen-G polymorphisms are associated with cervical squamous cell carcinoma risk in Taiwanese women. Eur J Cancer 2014; 50:469-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2013.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Gillio-Tos A, Bicalho MDG, Fiano V, Grasso C, Tarallo V, De Marco L, Trevisan M, Xavier M, Slowik R, Carvalho NS, Maestri CA, Lacerda HM, Zugna D, Richiardi L, Merletti F. Case-control study of HLA-G promoter methylation status, HPV infection and cervical neoplasia in Curitiba, Brazil: a pilot analysis. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:618. [PMID: 23265140 PMCID: PMC3545901 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The causal association between persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer has been established, but the mechanisms that favor HPV persistence in cervical cells are still unknown. The diminished capability of the immune system to control and resolve HPV infection is one of several hypotheses. The tolerogenic protein HLA-G has shown aberrant expression in a variety of cancers, which has been suggested as a mechanism for tumor escape from immunosurveillance. In the present study we evaluate the role of epigenetic modification (promoter de-methylation) of the HLA-G gene on susceptibility to HPV infection and development of high-grade cervical lesions. Methods A case–control study was carried out in Curitiba, Brazil, between February and June 2010. A total of 789 women aged 15–47 years were recruited: 510 controls with normal cervical cytology, and 279 cases with histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2, N = 150) or grade 3 (CIN3, N = 129). All women were administered a questionnaire by interview, which collected information on demographic and lifestyle factors, and a cervical sample was collected. HPV DNA detection was performed by GP5+/GP6+ primer-mediated PCR. HPV-positive samples were genotyped by multiplex PCR. A pilot analysis of HLA-G promoter methylation was carried out in a subset of the study population (96 cases and 76 controls) by pyrosequencing. HLA-G methylation and HPV infection status of cases and controls were compared, and confounding factors were computed by t Student and non-parametric Wilcoxon tests. Comparison of HLA-G methylation between cases and controls was assessed by the Bonferroni correction. The association of HLA-G methylation with CIN2/3 was evaluated by logistic regression. Results HPV prevalence was 19.6% in controls and 94.3% in CIN2/3 cases. HPV16, 31, 33, 35 and 18 were the most prevalent types. Methylation analysis of seven CpGs in the HLA-G promoter did not reveal any spontaneous de-methylation events in CIN2/3 cases (mean proportion of methylation: 75.8%) with respect to controls (mean 73.7%; odds ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.96, 1.07). Conclusions This study did not support the hypothesis that spontaneous de-methylation events in the HLA-G promoter play a primary role in promoting escape from immunosurveillance in the development of precancerous cervical lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gillio-Tos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Cancer Epidemiology - C,E,R,M,S, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
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