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Wang M, Guo H, Sun BB, Jie XL, Shi XY, Liu YQ, Shi XL, Ding LQ, Xue PH, Qiu F, Cao W, Wang GZ, Zhou GB. Centipeda minima and 6-O-angeloylplenolin enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 132:155825. [PMID: 38968790 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapeutic agents including cisplatin, gemcitabine, and pemetrexed, significantly enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by increasing PD-L1 expression and potentiating T cell cytotoxicity. However, the low response rate and adverse effects limit the application of chemotherapy/ICI combinations in patients. METHODS We screened for medicinal herbs that could perturb PD-L1 expression and enhance T cell cytotoxicity in the presence of anti-PD-L1 antibody, and investigated the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS We found that the aqueous extracts of Centipeda minima (CM) significantly enhanced the cancer cell-killing activity and granzyme B expression level of CD8+ T cells, in the presence of anti-PD-L1 antibody. Both CM and its active component 6-O-angeloylplenolin (6-OAP) upregulated PD-L1 expression by suppressing GSK-3β-β-TRCP-mediated ubiquitination and degradation. CM and 6-OAP significantly enhanced ICI-induced reduction of tumor burden and prolongation of overall survival of mice bearing NSCLC cells, accompanied by upregulation of PD-L1 and increase of CD8+ T cell infiltration. CM also exhibited anti-NSCLC activity in cells and in a patient-derived xenograft mouse model. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrated that the induced expression of PD-L1 and enhancement of CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity underlay the beneficial effects of 6-OAP-rich CM in NSCLCs, providing a clinically available and safe medicinal herb for combined use with ICIs to treat this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Institute of Cancer Research, Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Hua Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Bei-Bei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xiao-Liang Jie
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xue-Yan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yong-Qiang Liu
- Research Center of Chinese Herbal Resources Science and Engineering, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xu-Liu Shi
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Li-Qin Ding
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Peng-Hui Xue
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Feng Qiu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Wangjing Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Gui-Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
| | - Guang-Biao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.
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Chu CS, Chen HP, Lin PH, Cheng CC, Kuo HY, Fan PH, Peng WH, Wu LL. Interleukin-1 receptor 1 deficiency worsens hepatocellular carcinoma, while gemcitabine treatment alleviates the hepatocellular carcinoma-induced increase in intra-hepatic immune cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 39005010 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Primary liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), represents a substantial global health challenge. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors are effective in HCC treatment, several patients still experience disease progression. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) regulates immunity and inflammation. We investigate the role of IL-1 in HCC development and progression and determine the potential therapeutic impact of gemcitabine in treating HCC. METHODS Hydrodynamics-based transfection, employing the sleeping beauty transposase system, delivered surrogate tumor antigens, NRAS (NRAS proto-oncogene, GTPase), ShP53, and SB100 to C57BL/6 mice. A basic HCC mouse model was established. Pathogen-free animals were tested for serum and hepatotoxicity. The HCC prognosis was monitored using alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Liver histology immunohistochemistry and mouse splenocyte/intra-hepatic immune cell flow cytometry were conducted. IL-1β levels in human and mouse serum were assessed. RESULTS Interleukin-1β levels were elevated in patients with HCC compared with those in non-HCC controls. Hepatic IL-1β levels were higher in HCC mouse models than those in non-HCC mice, suggesting localized hepatic inflammation. IL-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) knockout (IL-1R1-/-) mice exhibited less severe HCC progression than that in wild-type mice, despite the high intra-hepatic IL-1β concentration. IL-1R1-/- mice exhibited increased hepatic levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells, which may exacerbate HCC. Gemcitabine significantly reduced the HCC tumor burden, improved liver conditions, and increased survival rates in HCC mouse models. Gemcitabine reduced the hepatic levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells, potentially alleviating immune suppression in the liver. CONCLUSIONS Targeting IL-1 or combining gemcitabine with immunotherapy is a promising approach for treating advanced-stage HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Sheng Chu
- Ph.D. Program of Interdisciplinary Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Ever Health Clinic, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ping Chen
- Health Innovation Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Microbiota Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Hung Lin
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chen Cheng
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ho-Yu Kuo
- Department and Institute of Physiology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Han Fan
- Department and Institute of Physiology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hao Peng
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ling Wu
- Health Innovation Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Microbiota Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department and Institute of Physiology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Larson AC, Knoche SM, Brumfield GL, Doty KR, Gephart BD, Moore-Saufley PR, Solheim JC. Gemcitabine Modulates HLA-I Regulation to Improve Tumor Antigen Presentation by Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3211. [PMID: 38542184 PMCID: PMC10970070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease, harboring a five-year overall survival rate of only 13%. Current treatment approaches thus require modulation, with attention shifting towards liberating the stalled efficacy of immunotherapies. Select chemotherapy drugs which possess inherent immune-modifying behaviors could revitalize immune activity against pancreatic tumors and potentiate immunotherapeutic success. In this study, we characterized the influence of gemcitabine, a chemotherapy drug approved for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, on tumor antigen presentation by human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I). Gemcitabine increased pancreatic cancer cells' HLA-I mRNA transcripts, total protein, surface expression, and surface stability. Temperature-dependent assay results indicated that the increased HLA-I stability may be due to reduced binding of low affinity peptides. Mass spectrometry analysis confirmed changes in the HLA-I-presented peptide pool post-treatment, and computational predictions suggested improved affinity and immunogenicity of peptides displayed solely by gemcitabine-treated cells. Most of the gemcitabine-exclusive peptides were derived from unique source proteins, with a notable overrepresentation of translation-related proteins. Gemcitabine also increased expression of select immunoproteasome subunits, providing a plausible mechanism for its modulation of the HLA-I-bound peptidome. Our work supports continued investigation of immunotherapies, including peptide-based vaccines, to be used with gemcitabine as new combination treatment modalities for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina C. Larson
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Shelby M. Knoche
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Gabrielle L. Brumfield
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Kenadie R. Doty
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Benjamin D. Gephart
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | | | - Joyce C. Solheim
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Zhang K, Wuri Q, Cai Z, Qu X, Zhang S, Wu H, Wu J, Wang C, Yu X, Kong W, Zhang H. The XCL1-Mediated DNA Vaccine Targeting Type 1 Conventional Dendritic Cells Combined with Gemcitabine and Anti-PD1 Antibody Induces Potent Antitumor Immunity in a Mouse Lung Cancer Model. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1880. [PMID: 38339158 PMCID: PMC10855623 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031880] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
With the advent of cancer immunotherapy, there is a growing interest in vaccine development as a means to activate the cellular immune system against cancer. Despite the promise of DNA vaccines in this regard, their effectiveness is hindered by poor immunogenicity, leading to modest therapeutic outcomes across various cancers. The role of Type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1), capable of cross-presenting vaccine antigens to activate CD8+T cells, emerges as crucial for the antitumor function of DNA vaccines. To address the limitations of DNA vaccines, a promising approach involves targeting antigens to cDC1 through the fusion of XCL1, a ligand specific to the receptor XCR1 on the surface of cDC1. Here, female C57BL/6 mice were selected for tumor inoculation and immunotherapy. Additionally, recognizing the complexity of cancer, this study explored the use of combination therapies, particularly the combination of cDC1-targeted DNA vaccine with the chemotherapy drug Gemcitabine (Gem) and the anti-PD1 antibody in a mouse lung cancer model. The study's findings indicate that fusion antigens with XCL1 effectively enhance both the immunogenicity and antitumor effects of DNA vaccines. Moreover, the combination of the cDC1-targeted DNA vaccine with Gemcitabine and anti-PD1 antibody in the mouse lung cancer model demonstrates an improved antitumor effect, leading to the prolonged survival of mice. In conclusion, this research provides important support for the clinical investigation of cDC1-targeting DNA vaccines in combination with other therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Qimuge Wuri
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Zongyu Cai
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Xueli Qu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Shiqi Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Hui Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Chu Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
| | - Xianghui Yu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, The Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Wei Kong
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, The Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Haihong Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (K.Z.); (Q.W.); (Z.C.); (X.Q.); (S.Z.); (H.W.); (J.W.); (C.W.); (X.Y.); (W.K.)
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Chen J, Cui M, He L, Mu Y, Hu N, Guan X. Engineered elastin-like polypeptide-based hydrogel delivering chemotherapeutics and PD-L1 antibodies for potentiated cancer immunotherapy. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:10355-10361. [PMID: 37817648 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb01974h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have effectively eradicated advanced tumors by inducing durable and systematic antitumor immune responses. However, when used as a standalone treatment, ICIs typically exhibit a low response rate in many cancers. In this study, we engineered an in situ-formed gel depot using elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) to efficiently deliver PD-L1 antibodies (aPD-L1) and gemcitabine (GEM) for enhanced immunotherapy in melanoma. Sustainably released chemotherapeutics from gel depots could kill melanoma cells and promote PD-L1 upregulation in tumor cells. Moreover, aPD-L1/GEM-encapsulated ELP hydrogel promoted a 3.0-fold increase of tumor-infiltrated CD8+ T cells and 60% Tregs depletion compared with PBS group, eliciting a robust antitumor immune response for immunotherapy in melanoma mouse models. This research highlights the promising potential of ELP-based hydrogels in delivering ICIs and chemotherapeutic agents for potentiated cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinguang Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China
| | - Meiying Cui
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Jining 272007, China
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Medical School, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China.
| | - Lianping He
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Medical School, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China.
| | - Yeteng Mu
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Medical School, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China.
| | - Nannan Hu
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Medical School, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China.
| | - Xingang Guan
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Medical School, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318001, P. R. China.
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Daunke T, Beckinger S, Rahn S, Krüger S, Heckl S, Schäfer H, Wesch D, Pilarsky C, Eckstein M, Hartmann A, Röcken C, Wandmacher AM, Sebens S. Expression and role of the immune checkpoint regulator PD-L1 in the tumor-stroma interplay of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1157397. [PMID: 37449210 PMCID: PMC10337136 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1157397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), e.g., targeting programmed cell death protein 1-ligand 1 (PD-L1) or its receptor PD-1, have markedly improved the therapy of many cancers but so far failed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Macrophages represent one of the most abundant immune cell populations within the tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC being able to either support or restrain tumor progression depending on their phenotype. To better understand treatment failure of PD-L1/PD-1 inhibitors in PDAC, this study examined PD-L1 expression in the context of a dynamic TME in PDAC with a particular focus on the impact of macrophages. Methods Formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded tissue samples of primary PDAC tissues and corresponding liver metastases were used for immunohistochemical analyses. Serial sections were stained with antibodies detecting Pan-Cytokeratin, CD68, CD163, CD8, and PD-L1.To investigate whether the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and macrophages contribute to immune escape of PDAC cells, a stroma enriched 3D spheroid coculture model was established in vitro, using different PDAC cell lines and macrophages subtypes as well as CD8+ T cells. Functional and flow cytometry analyses were conducted to characterize cell populations. Results Immunohistochemical analyses revealed that PD-L1 is mainly expressed by stroma cells, including macrophages and not PDAC cells in primary PDAC tissues and corresponding liver metastases. Notably, high local abundance of macrophages and strong PD-L1 staining were commonly found at invasion fronts of tumoral lesions between CD8+ T cells and tumor cells. In order to investigate whether PD-L1 expressing macrophages impact the response of PDAC cells to treatment with PD-L1/PD-1 inhibitors, we developed a spheroid model comprising two different PDAC cell lines and different ratios of in vitro differentiated primary M1- or M2-like polarized macrophages. In line with our in situ findings, high PD-L1 expression was observed in macrophages rather than PDAC cells, which was further increased by the presence of PDAC cells. The effector phenotype of co-cultured CD8+ T cells exemplified by expression of activation markers and release of effector molecules was rather enhanced by PDAC macrophage spheroids, particularly with M1-like macrophages compared to mono-culture spheroids. However, this was not associated with enhanced PDAC cell death. ICI treatment with either Durvalumab or Pembrolizumab alone or in combination with Gemcitabine hardly affected the effector phenotype of CD8+ T cells along with PDAC cell death. Thus, despite strong PD-L1 expression in macrophages, ICI treatment did not result in an enhanced activation and cytotoxic phenotype of CD8+ T cells. Conclusion Overall, our study revealed novel insights into the interplay of PDAC cells and macrophages in the presence of ICI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Daunke
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Silje Beckinger
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sascha Rahn
- Biochemical Institute, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sandra Krüger
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Steffen Heckl
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Heiner Schäfer
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Daniela Wesch
- Institute of Immunology, Kiel University and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Pilarsky
- Translational Research Center, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Eckstein
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Röcken
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anna Maxi Wandmacher
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Susanne Sebens
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
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Yamaki H, Kono M, Wakisaka R, Komatsuda H, Kumai T, Hayashi R, Sato R, Nagato T, Ohkuri T, Kosaka A, Ohara K, Kishibe K, Takahara M, Hayashi T, Kobayashi H, Katada A. Brachyury-targeted immunotherapy combined with gemcitabine against head and neck cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023:10.1007/s00262-023-03460-0. [PMID: 37173455 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03460-0] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Brachyury is a transcription factor belonging to the T-box gene family and is involved in the posterior formation of the mesoderm and differentiation of chordates. As the overexpression of Brachyury is a poor prognostic factor in a variety of cancers, the establishment of Brachyury-targeted therapy would be beneficial for the treatment of aggressive tumors. Because transcription factors are difficult to treat with a therapeutic antibody, peptide vaccines are a feasible approach for targeting Brachyury. In this study, we identified Brachyury-derived epitopes that elicit antigen-specific and tumor-reactive CD4+ T cells that directly kill tumors. T cells recognizing Brachyury epitopes were present in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Next, we focused on gemcitabine (GEM) as an immunoadjuvant to augment the efficacy of antitumor responses by T cells. Interestingly, GEM upregulated HLA class I and HLA-DR expression in tumor, followed by the upregulation of anti-tumor T cell responses. As tumoral PD-L1 expression was also augmented by GEM, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and GEM synergistically enhanced the tumor-reactivity of Brachyury-reactive T cells. The synergy between the PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and GEM was also confirmed in a mouse model of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. These results suggest that the combined treatment of Brachyury peptide with GEM and immune checkpoint blockade could be a promising immunotherapy against head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidekiyo Yamaki
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Michihisa Kono
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Risa Wakisaka
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroki Komatsuda
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Takumi Kumai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan.
- Department of Innovative Head and Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan.
| | - Ryusuke Hayashi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Sato
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Nagato
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ohkuri
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Akemi Kosaka
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Kenzo Ohara
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kan Kishibe
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Miki Takahara
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
- Department of Innovative Head and Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Hayashi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroya Kobayashi
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Akihiro Katada
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
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8
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Tang H, Zhang Z, Zhu M, Xie Y, Lv Z, Liu R, Shen Y, Pei J. Efficient Delivery of Gemcitabine by Estrogen Receptor-Targeted PEGylated Liposome and Its Anti-Lung Cancer Activity In Vivo and In Vitro. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030988. [PMID: 36986849 PMCID: PMC10059217 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the main causes of cancer-related deaths. At present, the main treatment method for lung cancer is chemotherapy. Gemcitabine (GEM) is widely applied in lung cancer treatment, but its lack of targeting ability and serious side effects limit its application. In recent years, nanocarriers have become the focus of research to solve the above problems. Here, we prepared estrone (ES)-modified GEM-loaded PEGylated liposomes (ES-SSL-GEM) for enhanced delivery by identifying the overexpressed estrogen receptor (ER) on lung cancer A549 cells. We studied the characterization, stability, release behavior, cytotoxicity, targeting ability, endocytosis mechanism, and antitumor ability to prove the therapeutic effect of ES-SSL-GEM. The results showed that ES-SSL-GEM presented a uniform particle size of 131.20 ± 0.62 nm, a good stability, and a slowly released behavior. Moreover, ES-SSL-GEM enhanced tumor-targeting ability, and the endocytosis mechanism studies confirmed that the ER-mediated endocytosis had the most crucial effect. Furthermore, ES-SSL-GEM had the best inhibitory effect on A549 cell proliferation and significantly suppressed the tumor growth in vivo. These results suggest that ES-SSL-GEM is a promising agent for treating lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Tang
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ming Zhu
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yizhuo Xie
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhe Lv
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yujia Shen
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jin Pei
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
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9
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Shi MY, Liu HG, Chen XH, Tian Y, Chen ZN, Wang K. The application basis of immuno-checkpoint inhibitors combined with chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1088886. [PMID: 36703971 PMCID: PMC9871553 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1088886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Immuno-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) bring a promising prospect for patients with cancers, which restrains the growth of tumor cells by enhancing anti-tumor activity. Nevertheless, not all patients benefit from the administration of ICIs monotherapy. The partial response or resistance to ICIs is mainly due to the complex and heterogenous tumor microenvironment (TME). The combined therapy is necessary for improving the efficacy of tumor treatment. Chemotherapy is reported not only to kill tumor cells directly, but also to stimulate effective anti-tumor immune responses. Several combined therapies of ICIs and chemotherapeutic agents have been approved for the first-line treatment of cancers, including PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. This review summarizes the potential mechanisms of the combined therapy of ICIs and chemotherapeutic agents in inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) and reprogramming TME, and elucidates the possible anti-tumor effects of combined therapy from the perspective of metabolic reprogramming and microbiome reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ke Wang
- *Correspondence: Ke Wang, ; Zhi-Nan Chen,
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10
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Wu N, Cao Y, Liu Y, Zhou Y, He H, Tang R, Wan L, Wang C, Xiong X, Zhong L, Li P. Low-intensity focused ultrasound targeted microbubble destruction reduces tumor blood supply and sensitizes anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1173381. [PMID: 37139047 PMCID: PMC10150078 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1173381] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) typified by anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies as a revolutionary treatment for solid malignancies has been limited to a subset of patients due to poor immunogenicity and inadequate T cell infiltration. Unfortunately, no effective strategies combined with ICB therapy are available to overcome low therapeutic efficiency and severe side effects. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) is an effective and safe technique holding the promise to decrease tumor blood perfusion and activate anti-tumor immune response based on the cavitation effect. Herein, we demonstrated a novel combinatorial therapeutic modality combining low-intensity focused ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (LIFU-TMD) with PD-L1 blockade. LIFU-TMD caused the rupture of abnormal blood vessels to deplete tumor blood perfusion and induced the tumor microenvironment (TME) transformation to sensitize anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy, which markedly inhibited 4T1 breast cancer's growth in mice. We discovered immunogenic cell death (ICD) in a portion of cells induced by the cavitation effect from LIFU-TMD, characterized by the increased expression of calreticulin (CRT) on the tumor cell surface. Additionally, flow cytometry revealed substantially higher levels of dendritic cells (DCs) and CD8+ T cells in draining lymph nodes and tumor tissue, as induced by pro-inflammatory molecules like IL-12 and TNF-α. These suggest that LIFU-TMD as a simple, effective, and safe treatment option provides a clinically translatable strategy for enhancing ICB therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianhong Wu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuting Cao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Ultrasound, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu City, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongye He
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Can Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xialin Xiong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linhong Zhong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Institute of Ultrasound Imaging and Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Pan Li,
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11
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Zhao Y, Wang Z, Shi X, Liu T, Yu W, Ren X, Zhao H. Effect of Chemotherapeutics on In Vitro Immune Checkpoint Expression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231202307. [PMID: 37728201 PMCID: PMC10515539 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231202307] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Immune checkpoint (ICP) expression in tumor cells could directly or indirectly affect the results of immunotherapy. ICP ligands on tumor cells usually bind their immune cell receptors to inhibit the activity, resulting in tumor immune escape. Thus, the purpose of this study was to ascertain the impact of various chemotherapeutic drugs on ICP expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with different pathological subtypes to provide a basis for the development of a superior regimen of chemotherapy combined with ICP blockade. Methods: Several first-line chemotherapy agents (cisplatin, carboplatin, paclitaxel, gemcitabine, vinorelbine, and pemetrexed) were selected to treat different NSCLC cell lines (squamous carcinoma H1703, adenocarcinoma A549, and large cell cancer H460) for 72 hours, and then the changes in ICP expression in the tumor cells were observed through flow cytometry. Results: Cisplatin, carboplatin, and paclitaxel upregulated the expressions of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and programmed cell death ligand 2 (PD-L2) in A549 and H460 cell lines. Meanwhile, vinorelbine and pemetrexed upregulated PD-L1 and PD-L2 in H1703, A549, and H460 cell lines. Paclitaxel, gemcitabine, vinorelbine, and pemetrexed significantly upregulated the expressions of both galectin-9 and high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in the A549 cell line. Cisplatin and paclitaxel significantly upregulated the expressions of major histocompatibility complex-II (MHC-II), galectin-3, α-synuclein, and fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1) in A549 and H460 cell lines. In addition, cisplatin and vinorelbine significantly upregulated the expressions of both CD155 and CD112 in the H460 cell line. Vinorelbine upregulated MHC-I in all three cell lines. Conclusion: Chemotherapy agents have different effects on the expression of ICP ligands in tumor cells with different pathological types, and this may affect the efficacy of combined immunotherapy. These results provide a theoretical basis for further selection and optimization of the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuhuan Shi
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
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12
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Knoche SM, Brumfield GL, Goetz BT, Sliker BH, Larson AC, Olson MT, Poelaert BJ, Bavari A, Yan Y, Black JD, Solheim JC. The histone deacetylase inhibitor M344 as a multifaceted therapy for pancreatic cancer. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273518. [PMID: 36126055 PMCID: PMC9488834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor vorinostat, used with gemcitabine and other therapies, has been effective in treatment of experimental models of pancreatic cancer. In this study, we demonstrated that M344, an HDAC inhibitor, is efficacious against pancreatic cancer in vitro and in vivo, alone or with gemcitabine. By 24 hours post-treatment, M344 augments the population of pancreatic cancer cells in G1, and at a later time point (48 hours) it increases apoptosis. M344 inhibits histone H3 deacetylation and slows pancreatic cancer cell proliferation better than vorinostat, and it does not decrease the viability of a non-malignant cell line more than vorinostat. M344 also elevates pancreatic cancer cell major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule expression, potentially increasing the susceptibility of pancreatic cancer cells to T cell lysis. Taken together, our findings support further investigation of M344 as a pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby M. Knoche
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Gabrielle L. Brumfield
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Benjamin T. Goetz
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Bailee H. Sliker
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Alaina C. Larson
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Madeline T. Olson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Brittany J. Poelaert
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Audrey Bavari
- University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, NE, United States of America
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Jennifer D. Black
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Joyce C. Solheim
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
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13
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Zhang J, Tang Z, Guo X, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Cai W. Synergistic effects of nab-PTX and anti-PD-1 antibody combination against lung cancer by regulating the Pi3K/AKT pathway through the Serpinc1 gene. Front Oncol 2022; 12:933646. [PMID: 35992834 PMCID: PMC9381811 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.933646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a type of cancer with higher morbidity and mortality. In spite of the impressive response rates of nab-paclitaxel (nab-PTX) or programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and its ligand inhibitors, the effective treatment remains limited. Currently, alternative strategies aim at drug combination of nab-PTX and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Even as the clinical impact of the combined agents continues to increase, basic research studies are still limited and the mechanisms underlying this synergy are not well studied. In this study, we evaluated the antitumor efficacy and the molecular mechanisms of action of nab-PTX in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody, using Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cell and subcutaneously transplanted tumor models. The combination of nab-PTX and anti-PD-1 antibody displayed stronger antitumor effects, manifested at tumor volume, proliferation and apoptosis through Ki67 and TUNEL staining. In-vivo experiments showed significant increases in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, PF, and Gzms-B, exerting antitumor effects with reductions in MDSCs and IL-10 after the treatments. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis indicated 20 overlapped differentially expressed genes, and Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade C Member 1 (Serpinc1) was downregulated during treatment in vivo, whose expression level was markedly related to metastasis and overall survival of lung cancer patients. Functional enrichment analysis of the target gene revealed primary GO terms related to tumor, which warrants further investigation. We also found that Serpinc1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibited cell apoptosis of LLC cells in vitro, possibly regulating the associated factors via the Pi3K/AKT pathway. In summary, our results reveal the synergistic antitumor responses of nab-PTX combined with anti-PD-1 antibody, in which Serpinc1 may play an important role, providing a target gene for combination treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijia Tang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunxia Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhong Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weimin Cai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Combination gemcitabine and PD-L1xCD3 bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) enhances T lymphocyte cytotoxicity against cholangiocarcinoma cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6154. [PMID: 35418130 PMCID: PMC9007942 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09964-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a lethal cancer with rapid progression and poor survival. Novel and more effective therapies than those currently available are, therefore, urgently needed. Our research group previously reported the combination of gemcitabine and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to be more effective than single-agent treatment for the elimination of CCA cells. However, gemcitabine treatment of CCA cells upregulates the expression of an immune checkpoint protein (programmed death-ligand 1 [PD-L1]) that consequently inhibits the cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes. To overcome this challenge and take advantage of PD-L1 upregulation upon gemcitabine treatment, we generated recombinant PD-L1xCD3 bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) to simultaneously block PD-1/PD-L1 signaling and recruit T lymphocytes to eliminate CCA cells. Two recombinant PD-L1xCD3 BiTEs (mBiTE and sBiTE contain anti-PD-L1 scFv region from atezolizumab and from a published sequence, respectively) were able to specifically bind to both CD3 on T lymphocytes, and to PD-L1 overexpressed after gemcitabine treatment on CCA (KKU213A, KKU055, and KKU100) cells. mBiTE and sBiTE significantly enhanced T lymphocyte cytotoxicity against CCA cells, especially after gemcitabine treatment, and their magnitudes of cytotoxicity were positively associated with the levels of PD-L1 expression. Our findings suggest combination gemcitabine and PD-L1xCD3 BiTE as a potential alternative therapy for CCA.
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15
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Naimi A, Mohammed RN, Raji A, Chupradit S, Yumashev AV, Suksatan W, Shalaby MN, Thangavelu L, Kamrava S, Shomali N, Sohrabi AD, Adili A, Noroozi-Aghideh A, Razeghian E. Tumor immunotherapies by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); the pros and cons. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:44. [PMID: 35392976 PMCID: PMC8991803 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The main breakthrough in tumor immunotherapy was the discovery of immune checkpoint (IC) proteins, which act as a potent suppressor of the immune system by a myriad of mechanisms. After that, scientists focused on the immune checkpoint molecules mainly. Thereby, much effort was spent to progress novel strategies for suppressing these inhibitory axes, resulting in the evolution of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Then, ICIs have become a promising approach and shaped a paradigm shift in tumor immunotherapies. CTLA-4 plays an influential role in attenuation of the induction of naïve and memory T cells by engagement with its responding ligands like B7-1 (CD80) and B7-2 (CD86). Besides, PD-1 is predominantly implicated in adjusting T cell function in peripheral tissues through its interaction with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and PD-L2. Given their suppressive effects on anti-tumor immunity, it has firmly been documented that ICIs based therapies can be practical and rational therapeutic approaches to treat cancer patients. Nonetheless, tumor inherent or acquired resistance to ICI and some treatment-related toxicities restrict their application in the clinic. The current review will deliver a comprehensive overview of the ICI application to treat human tumors alone or in combination with other modalities to support more desired outcomes and lower toxicities in cancer patients. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Naimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Rebar N. Mohammed
- Medical Laboratory Analysis Department, Cihan University Sulaimaniya, Sulaymaniyah, 46001 Kurdistan Region Iraq
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Suleimanyah, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Raji
- College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Department of Pathology, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Supat Chupradit
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
| | | | - Wanich Suksatan
- Faculty of Nursing, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, 10210 Thailand
| | - Mohammed Nader Shalaby
- Associate Professor of Biological Sciences and Sports Health Department, Faculty of Physical Education, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Lakshmi Thangavelu
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Siavash Kamrava
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Immunology Research Center (IRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Armin D. Sohrabi
- Immunology Research Center (IRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Adili
- Department of Oncology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Noroozi-Aghideh
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Razeghian
- Human Genetics Division, Medical Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
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16
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Chen J, Zhou Z, Zheng C, Liu Y, Hao R, Ji X, Xi Q, Shen J, Li Z. Chitosan oligosaccharide regulates AMPK and STAT1 pathways synergistically to mediate PD-L1 expression for cancer chemoimmunotherapy. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 277:118869. [PMID: 34893274 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
After regular chemotherapy, the expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in almost all kinds of cancers is significantly increased, leading to reduced efficacy of T cell mediated immune killing in tumors. To solve this, a lot of PD-L1 antibodies were produced and used, but their high cost and serious toxic side effects still limit its usage. Recently, small molecule compounds that could effectively regulate PD-L1 expression possess the edges to solve the problems of PD-L1 antibodies. Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), a biomaterial derived from the N-deacetylation product of chitin, has a broad spectrum of biological activities in treating tumors. However, the mechanism of its anti-cancer effect is still not well understood. Here, for the first time, we clearly identified that COS could inhibit the upregulated PD-L1 expression induced by interferon γ (IFN-γ) in various tumors via the AMPK activation and STAT1 inhibition. Besides, COS itself significantly restricted the growth of CT26 tumors by enhancing the T cell infiltration in tumors. Furthermore, we observed that combining COS with Gemcitabine (GEM), one of the typical chemotherapeutic drugs, leaded to a more remarkable tumor remission. Therefore, it was demonstrated that COS could be used as a useful way to improve the efficacy of existing chemotherapies by effective PD-L1 downregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiashe Chen
- Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Zaigang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Chunjuan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ruiqi Hao
- Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Xiaolin Ji
- Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Qiaoer Xi
- Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Jianliang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325000, China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
| | - Zhiming Li
- Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
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17
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Vafaei S, Zekiy AO, Khanamir RA, Zaman BA, Ghayourvahdat A, Azimizonuzi H, Zamani M. Combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); a new frontier. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:2. [PMID: 34980128 PMCID: PMC8725311 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02407-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy has become a promising therapeutic strategy with encouraging therapeutic outcomes due to their durable anti-tumor effects. Though, tumor inherent or acquired resistance to ICIs accompanied with treatment-related toxicities hamper their clinical utility. Overall, about 60-70% of patients (e.g., melanoma and lung cancer) who received ICIs show no objective response to intervention. The resistance to ICIs mainly caused by alterations in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which in turn, supports angiogenesis and also blocks immune cell antitumor activities, facilitating tumor cells' evasion from host immunosurveillance. Thereby, it has been supposed and also validated that combination therapy with ICIs and other therapeutic means, ranging from chemoradiotherapy to targeted therapies as well as cancer vaccines, can capably compromise tumor resistance to immune checkpoint blocked therapy. Herein, we have focused on the therapeutic benefits of ICIs as a groundbreaking approach in the context of tumor immunotherapy and also deliver an overview concerning the therapeutic influences of the addition of ICIs to other modalities to circumvent tumor resistance to ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Vafaei
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Angelina O. Zekiy
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ramadhan Ado Khanamir
- Internal Medicine and Surgery Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Burhan Abdullah Zaman
- Basic Sciences Department, College of Pharmacy, University of Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | | | | | - Majid Zamani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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Bironzo P, Passiglia F, Novello S. Winds From the ORIENT: New Data to Inform RATIONAL Choice? J Thorac Oncol 2021; 16:1434-1436. [PMID: 34425995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bironzo
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Department of Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Francesco Passiglia
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Department of Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Silvia Novello
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Department of Oncology, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy.
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Immunotherapy Combined with Metronomic Dosing: An Effective Approach for the Treatment of NSCLC. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081901. [PMID: 33920884 PMCID: PMC8071233 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081901] [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: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) claims almost 80% of the total lung cancer cases, with the late-stage disease having an estimated median survival time of up to five years. Patients with NSCLC benefit from traditional maximum tolerated dose (MTD) chemotherapy alone or combined with immunotherapy. However, efficacious such treatment options lead to side effects and poor patient quality of life. We show that metronomic (MTR) chemotherapy—based on the daily administration of chemotherapeutics in low, nontoxic doses—could potentially supplement MTD treatment options and indirectly prevent tumor growth leading to efficacy and less toxicity. Importantly when MTR chemotherapy is combined with an immunotherapy anti-PD1 agent, the anticipated efficacy is achieved with less toxicity, thus providing new options for the treatment of NSCLC. Abstract Pioneering studies on tumor and immune cell interactions have highlighted immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as revolutionizing interventions for the management of NSCLC, typically combined with traditional MTD chemotherapies, which usually lead to toxicities and resistance to treatment. Alternatively, MTR chemotherapy is based on the daily low dose administration of chemotherapeutics, preventing tumor growth indirectly by targeting the tumor microenvironment. The effects of MTR administration of an oral prodrug of gemcitabine (OralGem), alone or with anti-PD1, were evaluated. Relevant in vitro and in vivo models were developed to investigate the efficacy of MTR alone or with immunotherapy and the potential toxicities associated with each dosing scheme. MTR OralGem restricted tumor angiogenesis by regulating thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression. MTR OralGem enhanced antitumor immunity by increasing T effector responses and cytokine release, concomitant with dampening regulatory T cell populations. Promising pharmacokinetic properties afforded minimized blood and thymus toxicity and favorable bioavailability upon MTR administration compared to MTD. The combination of MTR OralGem with immunotherapy was shown to be highly efficacious and tolerable, illuminating it as a strong candidate therapeutic scheme for the treatment of NSCLC.
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