1
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Al Mahmasani L, Harding JJ, Abou-Alfa G. Immunotherapy: A Sharp Curve Turn at the Corner of Targeted Therapy in the Treatment of Biliary Tract Cancers. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2024; 38:643-657. [PMID: 38423933 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2024.01.005] [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] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers continue to increase in incidence and have a high mortality rate. Most of the patients present with advanced-stage disease. The discovery of targetable genomic alterations addressing IDH, FGFR, HER2, BRAFV600 E, and others has led to the identification and validation of novel therapies in biliary cancer. Recent advances demonstrating an improved outcome with the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors to chemotherapy have established a new first-line care standard. In case of contraindications to the use of checkpoint inhibitors and the absence of targetable alterations, chemotherapy remains to be the standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layal Al Mahmasani
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, USA
| | - James J Harding
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, USA; Weill Medical College at Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ghassan Abou-Alfa
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, USA; Weill Medical College at Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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2
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Omran MM, Fouda MS, Mekkawy SA, Tabll AA, Abdelaziz AG, Omran AM, Emran TM. Molecular Biomarkers and Signaling Pathways of Cancer Stem Cells in Colorectal Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241254061. [PMID: 38794896 PMCID: PMC11128179 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241254061] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently found cancer in the world, and it is frequently discovered when it is already far along in its development. About 20% of cases of CRC are metastatic and incurable. There is more and more evidence that colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs), which are in charge of tumor growth, recurrence, and resistance to treatment, are what make CRC so different. Because we know more about stem cell biology, we quickly learned about the molecular processes and possible cross-talk between signaling pathways that affect the balance of cells in the gut and cancer. Wnt, Notch, TGF-β, and Hedgehog are examples of signaling pathway members whose genes may change to produce CCSCs. These genes control self-renewal and pluripotency in SCs and then decide the function and phenotype of CCSCs. However, in terms of their ability to create tumors and susceptibility to chemotherapeutic drugs, CSCs differ from normal stem cells and the bulk of tumor cells. This may be the reason for the higher rate of cancer recurrence in patients who underwent both surgery and chemotherapy treatment. Scientists have found that a group of uncontrolled miRNAs related to CCSCs affect stemness properties. These miRNAs control CCSC functions like changing the expression of cell cycle genes, metastasis, and drug resistance mechanisms. CCSC-related miRNAs mostly control signal pathways that are known to be important for CCSC biology. The biomarkers (CD markers and miRNA) for CCSCs and their diagnostic roles are the main topics of this review study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M. Omran
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manar S. Fouda
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara A. Mekkawy
- Molecular Biotechnology Program, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf A. Tabll
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt
- Egypt Center for Research and Regenerative Medicine (ECRRM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed G. Abdelaziz
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Azza M. Omran
- Clinical Pharma Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - Tarek M. Emran
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta, Egypt
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3
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Liang T, Song Y, Gu L, Wang Y, Ma W. Insight into the Progress in CAR-T Cell Therapy and Combination with Other Therapies for Glioblastoma. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:4121-4141. [PMID: 37720174 PMCID: PMC10503554 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s418837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain cancer in adults. It is always resistant to existing treatments, including surgical resection, postoperative radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, which leads to a dismal prognosis and a high relapse rate. Therefore, novel curative therapies are urgently needed for GBM. Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has significantly improved life expectancy for hematological malignancies patients, and thus it increases the interest in applying CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. In the recently published research, it is indicated that there are numerous obstacles to achieve clinical benefits for solid tumors, especially for GBM, because of GBM anatomical characteristics (the blood-brain barrier and suppressive tumor microenvironment) and the tumor heterogeneity. CAR-T cells are difficult to penetrate blood-brain barrier, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which induces CAR-T cell exhaustion, impairs CAR-T cell therapy response. Moreover, under the pressure of CAR-T cell therapy, the tumor heterogeneity and tumor plasticity drive tumor evolution and therapy resistance, such as antigen escape. Nonetheless, scientists strive for strategies to overcome these hurdles, including novel CAR-T cell designs and regional delivery. For instance, the structure of multi-antigen-targeted CAR-T cells can enrich CAR-T accumulation in tumor TME and eliminate abundant tumor cells to avoid tumor antigen heterogeneity. Additionally, paired with an immune modifier and one or more stimulating domains, different generation of innovations in the structure and manufacturing of CAR-T cells have improved efficacy and persistence. While single CAR-T cell therapy receives limited clinical survival benefit. Compared with single CAR-T cell therapy, the combination therapies have supplemented the treatment paradigm. Combinatorial treatment methods consolidate the CAR-T cells efficacy by regulating the tumor microenvironment, optimizing the CAR structure, targeting the CAR-T cells to the tumor cells, reversing the tumor-immune escape mechanisms, and represent a promising avenue against GBM, based on multiple impressive research. Moreover, exciting results are also reported to be realized through combining effective therapies with CAR-T cells in preclinical and clinical trials samples, have aroused inspiration to explore the antitumor function of combination therapies. In summary, this study aims to summarize the limitation of CAR-T cell therapies and introduces novel strategies to enhance CAR-T cell function as well as prospect the potential of the therapeutic combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yixuan Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingui Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenbin Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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4
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Izadpanah A, Mohammadkhani N, Masoudnia M, Ghasemzad M, Saeedian A, Mehdizadeh H, Poorebrahim M, Ebrahimi M. Update on immune-based therapy strategies targeting cancer stem cells. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18960-18980. [PMID: 37698048 PMCID: PMC10557910 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6520] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating data reveals that tumors possess a specialized subset of cancer cells named cancer stem cells (CSCs), responsible for metastasis and recurrence of malignancies, with various properties such as self-renewal, heterogenicity, and capacity for drug resistance. Some signaling pathways or processes like Notch, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), Hedgehog (Hh), and Wnt, as well as CSCs' surface markers such as CD44, CD123, CD133, and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) have pivotal roles in acquiring CSCs properties. Therefore, targeting CSC-related signaling pathways and surface markers might effectively eradicate tumors and pave the way for cancer survival. Since current treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy cannot eradicate all of the CSCs and tumor relapse may happen following temporary recovery, improving novel and more efficient therapeutic options to combine with current treatments is required. Immunotherapy strategies are the new therapeutic modalities with promising results in targeting CSCs. Here, we review the targeting of CSCs by immunotherapy strategies such as dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, chimeric antigen receptors (CAR)-engineered immune cells, natural killer-cell (NK-cell) therapy, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), checkpoint inhibitors, and the use of oncolytic viruses (OVs) in pre-clinical and clinical studies. This review will mainly focus on blood malignancies but also describe solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Izadpanah
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
| | - Niloufar Mohammadkhani
- Department of Clinical BiochemistrySchool of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mina Masoudnia
- Department of ImmunologySchool of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mahsa Ghasemzad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology‐Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in BiologyUniversity of Science and CultureTehranIran
| | - Arefeh Saeedian
- Radiation Oncology Research CenterCancer Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
- Department of Radiation OncologyCancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Hamid Mehdizadeh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
| | - Mansour Poorebrahim
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Research Institute, University of CalgaryAlbertaCalgaryCanada
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
- Department of regenerative medicineCell Science research Center, Royan Institute for stem cell biology and technology, ACECRTehranIran
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5
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Pospieszna J, Dams-Kozlowska H, Udomsak W, Murias M, Kucinska M. Unmasking the Deceptive Nature of Cancer Stem Cells: The Role of CD133 in Revealing Their Secrets. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10910. [PMID: 37446085 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, and its complexity poses a significant challenge to effective treatment. Cancer stem cells and their markers have become key players in tumor growth and progression. CD133, a marker in various cancer types, is an active research area as a potential therapeutic target. This article explores the role of CD133 in cancer treatment, beginning with an overview of cancer statistics and an explanation of cancer stem cells and their markers. The rise of CD133 is discussed, including its structure, functions, and occurrence in different cancer types. Furthermore, the article covers CD133 as a therapeutic target, focusing on gene therapy, immunotherapy, and approaches to affect CD133 expression. Nanoparticles such as gold nanoparticles and nanoliposomes are also discussed in the context of CD133-targeted therapy. In conclusion, CD133 is a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. As research in this area progresses, it is hoped that CD133-targeted therapies will offer new and effective treatment options for cancer patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Pospieszna
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd Street, 10 Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego Street, 60-631 Poznan, Poland
| | - Hanna Dams-Kozlowska
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 15 Garbary Street, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Diagnostics and Cancer Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 15 Garbary Street, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Wachirawit Udomsak
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd Street, 10 Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego Street, 60-631 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marek Murias
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd Street, 10 Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego Street, 60-631 Poznan, Poland
- Center for Advanced Technology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 10 Street, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Kucinska
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd Street, 10 Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego Street, 60-631 Poznan, Poland
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Lo JH, Agarwal R, Goff LW, Heumann TR. Immunotherapy in Biliary Tract Cancers: Current Standard-of-Care and Emerging Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3312. [PMID: 37444422 PMCID: PMC10340362 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133312] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTCs), comprising intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinoma as well as gallbladder adenocarcinoma, continue to be challenging to manage. Conventional chemotherapy regimens for advanced disease are limited in both options and benefits, and more effective perioperative regimens are also needed. Over the last decade, immunotherapy has had a profound impact on the management of many solid tumor types, particularly in using immune checkpoint inhibition to enable a tumor-directed T cell response. Immunotherapy administered on its own has had limited utility in BTCs, in part due to a hostile immune microenvironment and the relative infrequency of biomarker-based tumor-agnostic indications for immunotherapy. However, immunotherapy in conjunction with chemotherapy, molecularly targeted therapies, and/or anti-angiogenic therapies has gained traction, supported by evidence that these agents can impart favorable immunomodulatory effects on the tumor microenvironment. The TOPAZ-1 trial led to the first BTC-specific immunotherapy approval, establishing the combination of durvalumab with gemcitabine and cisplatin as the preferred first-line treatment for advanced or metastatic disease. Recently, the KEYNOTE-966 trial showed positive results for the combination of pembrolizumab with gemcitabine and cisplatin in the same setting, adding further evidence for the addition of immune checkpoint inhibition to the standard chemotherapy backbone. Meanwhile, advances in the molecular profiling of BTCs has contributed to the recent proliferation of molecularly targeted therapeutics for the subset of BTCs harboring alterations in IDH1, FGFR2, MAP kinase signaling, HER2, and beyond, and there has been great interest in investigating combinations of these agents with immunotherapy. Emerging immunotherapy strategies beyond immune checkpoint inhibition are also being studied in BTCs, and these include immunostimulatory receptor agonists, Wnt signaling modulators, adoptive cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. A large number of trials are underway to explore promising new combinations and immune-targeted strategies, offering opportunities to expand the role of immunotherapy in BTC management in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Thatcher R. Heumann
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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7
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Zhao LM, Shi AD, Yang Y, Liu ZL, Hu XQ, Shu LZ, Tang YC, Zhang ZL. Advances in molecular and cell therapy for immunotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1140103. [PMID: 37064120 PMCID: PMC10090456 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1140103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly malignant tumor of the hepatobiliary system that has failed to respond to many traditional therapies to a certain extent, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In recent years, the new therapeutic schemes based on immunology have fundamentally changed the systemic treatment of various malignant tumors to a certain extent. In view of the immunogenicity of CCA, during the occurrence and development of CCA, some immunosuppressive substances are released from cells and immunosuppressive microenvironment is formed to promote the escape immune response of its own cells, thus enhancing the malignancy of the tumor and reducing the sensitivity of the tumor to drugs. Some immunotherapy regimens for cholangiocarcinoma have produced good clinical effects. Immunotherapy has more precise characteristics and less adverse reactions compared with traditional treatment approaches. However, due to the unique immune characteristics of CCA, some patients with CCA may not benefit in the long term or not benefit at all after current immunotherapy. At present, the immunotherapy of CCA that have been clinically studied mainly include molecular therapy and cell therapy. In this article, we generalized and summarized the current status of immunotherapy strategies including molecular therapy and cell therapy in CCA in clinical studies, and we outlined our understanding of how to enhance the clinical application of these immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-ming Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - An-da Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxian Central Hospital, Heze, China
| | - Zeng-li Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Li-Zhuang Shu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yong-chang Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-chang Tang, ; Zong-li Zhang,
| | - Zong-li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yong-chang Tang, ; Zong-li Zhang,
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Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary liver cancer. Its incidence is low in the Western world but is rising globally. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy have been the only treatment options for decades. Progress in our molecular understanding of the disease and the identification of druggable targets, such as IDH1 mutations and FGFR2 fusions, has provided new treatment options. Immunotherapy has emerged as a potent strategy for many different types of cancer and has shown efficacy in combination with chemotherapy for cholangiocarcinoma. In this Review, we discuss findings related to key immunological aspects of cholangiocarcinoma, including the heterogeneous landscape of immune cells within the tumour microenvironment, the immunomodulatory effect of the microbiota and IDH1 mutations, and the association of immune-related signatures and patient outcomes. We introduce findings from preclinical immunotherapy studies, discuss future immune-mediated treatment options, and provide a summary of results from clinical trials testing immune-based approaches in patients with cholangiocarcinoma. This Review provides a thorough survey of our knowledge on immune signatures and immunotherapy in cholangiocarcinoma.
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Du J, Lv X, Zhang Z, Huang Z, Zhang E. Revisiting targeted therapy and immunotherapy for advanced cholangiocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1142690. [PMID: 36936931 PMCID: PMC10014562 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1142690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare and aggressive type of malignant tumor. In the past few years, there has been an increase in the incidence of CCA. Surgery is the only effective treatment but is only suitable for a small percentage of patients. Comprehensive treatment is the normal therapy for terminal CCA patients, depending basically on gemcitabine and cisplatin combination chemotherapy. In the past decade, the emergence of next-generation sequencing technology can be used for the identification of important molecular features of CCA, and several studies have demonstrated that different CCA subtypes have unique genetic aberrations. Targeting fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (EGFR2) are emerging targeted therapies. In addition, researches have indicated that immunotherapy has a key function in CCA. There is ongoing research on programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors (PD-1), chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) and tumor-infiltrating leukocyte (TILs). Researches have shown that targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and conventional chemotherapy in CCA had certain mechanistic links, and the combination of those can greatly improve the prognosis of advanced CCA patients. This study aimed to review the research progress of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Erlei Zhang
- *Correspondence: Erlei Zhang, ; Zhiyong Huang,
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10
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Immunotherapy in Biliary Tract Cancers: Where Are We? Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:1821-1828. [PMID: 36192517 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01328-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are a heterogenous group of cancers arising from the biliary tract. The hallmark of these cancers is the advanced stage of presentation and a paucity of durable treatment options. Despite the advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy in solid tumors, systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy has remained the mainstay for cholangiocarcinomas. RECENT FINDINGS With advances in the understanding of the tumor microenvironment, genetic features, and inflammatory milieu, have led to the identification of tumor-infiltrating immune cells as indicators of prognosis and response to treatment in BTC. Through an improved comprehension of immunology, immuno-oncology is becoming another pillar of treatment along with traditional radiation, surgery, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. This article reviews the evidence for immunotherapy use in cholangiocarcinoma, which still being in infancy, and offers promising new novel options for the management of biliary tract cancers.
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11
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Feng Q, Sun B, Xue T, Li R, Lin C, Gao Y, Sun L, Zhuo Y, Wang D. Advances in CAR T-cell therapy in bile duct, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1025608. [PMID: 36341440 PMCID: PMC9628995 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1025608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Bile duct, pancreatic, and gastric cancers are deadly digestive system tumors with high malignancy and poor patient prognosis. The efficiencies of conventional surgical treatment, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are limited. In contrast, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy represents a landmark therapeutic approach to antitumor immunity with great efficacy in treating several hematological malignancies. CAR T-cell therapy involves genetically engineering the expression of specific antibodies based on the patient's T-cell surface and amplifying these antibodies to identify and target tumor-associated antigens. CAR T-cell therapy can effectively inhibit disease progression and improve the survival of patients with bile duct, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The effectiveness of CAR T cells in tumor therapy can be validated using xenograft models, providing a scientific testing platform. In this study, we have reviewed the progress in CAR T-cell production and its development, focusing on the current status and optimization strategies for engineered CAR T cells in the bile duct, pancreatic, and gastric cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, China - Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China,Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Baozhen Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, China - Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianyi Xue
- Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China,School of Acupuncture-Moxi bustion and Tuina, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Rong Li
- Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chao Lin
- School of grain science and technology, Jilin Business and Technology College, Changchun, China
| | - Yongjian Gao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Liqun Sun
- Department of Pathogenobiology, Jilin University Mycology Research Center, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yue Zhuo
- School of Acupuncture-Moxi bustion and Tuina, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Yue Zhou, ; Dongxu Wang,
| | - Dongxu Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Yue Zhou, ; Dongxu Wang,
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Elvevi A, Laffusa A, Scaravaglio M, Rossi RE, Longarini R, Stagno AM, Cristoferi L, Ciaccio A, Cortinovis DL, Invernizzi P, Massironi S. Clinical treatment of cholangiocarcinoma: an updated comprehensive review. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100737. [PMID: 35809836 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a heterogeneous group of neoplasms of the bile ducts and represents the second most common hepatic cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma; it is sub-classified as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA), the latter comprising both perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA or Klatskin tumor), and distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA). The global incidence of CCA has increased worldwide in recent decades. Chronic inflammation of biliary epithelium and bile stasis represent the main risk factors shared by all CCA sub-types. When feasible, liver resection is the treatment of choice for CCA, followed by systemic chemotherapy with capecitabine. Liver transplants represent a treatment option in patients with very early iCCA, in referral centers only. CCA diagnosis is often performed at an advanced stage when CCA is unresectable. In this setting, systemic chemotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin represents the first treatment option, but the prognosis remains poor. In order to ameliorate patients' survival, new drugs have been studied in the last few years. Target therapies are directed against different molecules, which are altered in CCA cells. These therapies have been studied as second-line therapy, alone or in combination with chemotherapy. In the same setting, the immune checkpoints inhibitors targeting programmed death 1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), have been proposed, as well as cancer vaccines and adoptive cell therapy (ACT). These experimental treatments showed promising results and have been proposed as second- or third-line treatment, alone or in combination with chemotherapy or target therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Elvevi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Laffusa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Miki Scaravaglio
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Roberta Elisa Rossi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Longarini
- Division of Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Stagno
- Division of Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Antonio Ciaccio
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Diego Luigi Cortinovis
- Division of Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Sara Massironi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.
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13
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Huang B, Miao L, Liu J, Zhang J, Li Y. A promising antitumor method: Targeting CSC with immune cells modified with CAR. Front Immunol 2022; 13:937327. [PMID: 36032145 PMCID: PMC9403009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.937327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors pose a great threat to human health; as a subgroup of tumor cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to the genesis, development, metastasis, and recurrence of tumors because of their enhanced proliferation and multidirectional differentiation. Thus, a critical step in tumor treatment is to inhibit CSCs. Researchers have proposed many methods to inhibit or reduce CSCs, including monoclonal antibodies targeting specific surface molecules of CSCs, signal pathway inhibitors, and energy metabolic enzyme inhibitors and inducing differentiation therapy. Additionally, immunotherapy with immune cells engineered with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) showed favorable results. However, there are few comprehensive reviews in this area. In this review, we summarize the recent CSC targets used for CSC inhibition and the different immune effector cells (T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages) which are engineered with CAR used for CSC therapy. Finally, we list the main challenges and options in targeting CSC with CAR-based immunotherapy. The design targeting two tumor antigens (one CSC antigen and one mature common tumor antigen) should be more reasonable and practical; meanwhile, we highlight the potential of CAR-NK in tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binjie Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lele Miao
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yumin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yumin Li,
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14
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Scott AJ, Sharman R, Shroff RT. Precision Medicine in Biliary Tract Cancer. J Clin Oncol 2022; 40:2716-2734. [PMID: 35839428 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.02576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine has become a dominant theme in the treatment of biliary tract cancers (BTCs). Although prognosis remains poor, technologies for improved molecular characterization along with the US Food and Drug Administration approval of several targeted therapies have changed the therapeutic landscape of advanced BTC. The hallmark of BTC oncogenesis is chronic inflammation of the liver and biliary tract regardless of the anatomical subtype. Subtypes of BTC correspond to distinct molecular characteristics, making BTC a molecularly heterogenous collection of tumors. Collectively, up to 40% of BTCs harbor a potentially targetable molecular abnormality, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend molecular profiling for all patients with advanced BTC. Use of circulating tumor DNA, immunohistochemistry, and next-generation sequencing continues to expand the utility for biomarker-driven management and molecular monitoring of BTC. Improving outcomes using biomarker-agnostic treatment for nontargetable tumors also remains a priority, and combinational treatment strategies such as immune checkpoint inhibition plus chemotherapy hold promise for this subgroup of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Scott
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ
| | - Reya Sharman
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ
| | - Rachna T Shroff
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ
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15
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Chen R, Zheng D, Li Q, Xu S, Ye C, Jiang Q, Yan F, Jia Y, Zhang X, Ruan J. Immunotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma: Therapeutic strategies and predictive biomarkers. Cancer Lett 2022; 546:215853. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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16
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Woods E, Le D, Jakka BK, Manne A. Changing Landscape of Systemic Therapy in Biliary Tract Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2137. [PMID: 35565266 PMCID: PMC9105885 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are often diagnosed at advanced stages and have a grave outcome due to limited systemic options. Gemcitabine and cisplatin combination (GC) has been the first-line standard for more than a decade. Second-line chemotherapy (CT) options are limited. Targeted therapy or TT (fibroblast growth factor 2 inhibitors or FGFR2, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 or IDH-1, and neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase or NTRK gene fusions inhibitors) have had reasonable success, but <5% of total BTC patients are eligible for them. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) such as pembrolizumab is restricted to microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) patients in the first line. The success of the TOPAZ-1 trial (GC plus durvalumab) is promising, with numerous trials underway that might soon bring targeted therapy (pemigatinib and infrigatinib) and ICI combinations (with CT or TT in microsatellite stable cancers) in the first line. Newer targets and newer agents for established targets are being investigated, and this may change the BTC management landscape in the coming years from traditional CT to individualized therapy (TT) or ICI-centered combinations. The latter group may occupy major space in BTC management due to the paucity of targetable mutations and a greater toxicity profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Woods
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 432120, USA;
| | - Dat Le
- Department of Pharmacy, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Institute at The Ohio State University, 460 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Bharath Kumar Jakka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baptist Medical Center South, Montgomery, AL 36116, USA;
| | - Ashish Manne
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology at the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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17
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Antitumor activity of T cells secreting αCD133-αCD3 bispecific T-cell engager against cholangiocarcinoma. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265773. [PMID: 35312724 PMCID: PMC8936442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a lethal cancer of bile duct epithelial cells with a high mortality rate and limited therapeutic options. An effective treatment is, therefore, urgently needed to improve treatment outcomes for these patients. To develop a new therapeutic option, we engineered T cells secreting αCD133-αCD3 bispecific T-cell engager and evaluated their antitumor effects against CD133-expressing CCA cells. The cDNA encoding αCD133-αCD3 bispecific T-cell engager (αCD133-αCD3-ENG) was cloned into pCDH lentiviral construct and its expression was tested in Lenti-X 293T cells. T cells from healthy donors were then transduced with engineered lentiviruses to create T cells secreting αCD133-αCD3 engager to evaluate their antitumor activities. The average transduction efficiency into T cells was approximately 60.03±21.65%. In the co-culture system containing T cells secreting αCD133-αCD3 engager (as effector cells) and mWasabi-luciferase-expressing CCA cells (KKU-100 and KKU-213A; as target cells), the effector T cells exhibited significantly higher cytolytic activities against the target CCA cells (49.0±9.76% and 64.10±13.18%, respectively) than those observed against the untransduced T cells (10.97±10.65%; p = 0.0103 and 9.80±11.05%; p = 0.0054) at an effector-to-target ratio of 5:1. In addition, the secreted αCD133-αCD3 engager significantly redirected both transduced T cells and bystander T cells to kill the target CCA cells (up to 73.20±1.68%; p<0.05). Moreover, the transduced and bystander T cells could kill the target CCA spheroids at a rate approximately 5-fold higher than that of the no treatment control condition (p = 0.0011). Our findings demonstrate proof-of-principle that T cells secreting αCD133-αCD3 engager can be an alternative approach to treating CD133-positive CCA, and they pave the way for future in vivo study and clinical trials.
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18
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Nanamori H, Sawada Y. Epigenetic Modification of PD-1/PD-L1-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy against Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031119. [PMID: 35163049 PMCID: PMC8835029 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the representative skin cancers with unfavorable clinical behavior. Immunotherapy is currently used for the treatment, and it dramatically improves clinical outcomes in patients with advanced malignant melanoma. On the other hand, not all these patients can obtain therapeutic efficacy. To overcome this limitation of current immunotherapy, epigenetic modification is a highlighted issue for clinicians. Epigenetic modification is involved in various physiological and pathological conditions in the skin. Recent studies identified that skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma, has advantages in tumor development, indicating that epigenetic manipulation for regulation of gene expression in the tumor can be expected to result in additional therapeutic efficacy during immunotherapy. In this review, we focus on the detailed molecular mechanism of epigenetic modification in immunotherapy, especially anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody treatment for malignant melanoma.
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Wutti-in Y, Sujjitjoon J, Sawasdee N, Panya A, Kongkla K, Yuti P, Yongpitakwattana P, Thepmalee C, Junking M, Chieochansin T, Poungvarin N, Yamabhai M, Yenchitsomanus PT. Development of a Novel Anti-CD19 CAR Containing a Fully Human scFv and Three Costimulatory Domains. Front Oncol 2022; 11:802876. [PMID: 35117999 PMCID: PMC8804167 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.802876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Second-generation anti-CD19-chimeric antigen receptor T cells (anti-CD19-CAR2 T cells) are effective for treating B-cell malignancies; however, anti-CD19-CAR2 T cells can induce human anti-mouse immune responses because anti-CD19 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) in the CAR molecules is derived from a murine FMC63 (mFMC63) monoclonal antibody. Consequently, the persistence of mFMC63-CAR2 T cells and their therapeutic efficiency in patients are decreased, which results in tumor relapse. In an attempt to remedy this shortcoming, we generated a new anti-CD19-CAR T cells containing fully human anti-CD19 scFv (Hu1E7-CAR4 T cells) to pre-clinically evaluate and compare with mFMC63-CAR4 T cells. The human anti-CD19 scFv (Hu1E7) was isolated from a human scFv phage display library and fused to the hinge region of CD8α, the transmembrane domain of CD28, three intracellular costimulatory domains (CD28, 4-1BB, and CD27), and a CD3ζ signaling domain (28BB27ζ). Compared to mFMC63-CAR2 T cells (BBζ) and mFMC63-CAR3 (BB27ζ), the mFMC63-CAR4 T cells (28BB27ζ) exerted superior anti-tumor activity against Raji (CD19+) target cell. The Hu1E7-CAR4 and mFMC63-CAR4 T cells demonstrated comparable cytotoxicity and proliferation. Interestingly, compared to mFMC63-CAR4 T cells, the Hu1E7-CAR4 T cells secreted lower levels of cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α), which may be due to the lower binding affinity of Hu1E7-CAR4 T cells. These findings demonstrated the successfulness in creation of a new CAR T cells containing a novel fully human-derived scFv specific to CD19+ cancer cells. In vivo studies are needed to further compare the anti-tumor efficacy and safety of Hu1E7-CAR4 T cells and mFMC63-CAR4 T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupanun Wutti-in
- Graduate Program in Immunology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jatuporn Sujjitjoon
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Pa-thai Yenchitsomanus, ; ; Jatuporn Sujjitjoon, ;
| | - Nunghathai Sawasdee
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Aussara Panya
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Katesara Kongkla
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornpimon Yuti
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Petlada Yongpitakwattana
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chutamas Thepmalee
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Mutita Junking
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thaweesak Chieochansin
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naravat Poungvarin
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Montarop Yamabhai
- Molecular Biotechnology Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Pa-thai Yenchitsomanus
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy (SiCORE-CIT), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Pa-thai Yenchitsomanus, ; ; Jatuporn Sujjitjoon, ;
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20
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The State of Immunotherapy in Hepatobiliary Cancers. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082096. [PMID: 34440865 PMCID: PMC8393650 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatobiliary cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), and gallbladder carcinoma (GBC), are lethal cancers with limited therapeutic options. Curative-intent treatment typically involves surgery, yet recurrence is common and many patients present with advanced disease not amenable to an operation. Immunotherapy represents a promising approach to improve outcomes, but the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of the liver characteristic of hepatobiliary cancers has hampered the development and implementation of this therapeutic approach. Current immunotherapies under investigation include immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), the adoptive transfer of immune cells, bispecific antibodies, vaccines, and oncolytic viruses. Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are two ICIs that have demonstrated utility in HCC, and newer immune checkpoint targets are being tested in clinical trials. In advanced CCA and GBC, PD-1 ICIs have resulted in antitumor responses, but only in a minority of select patients. Other ICIs are being investigated for patients with CCA and GBC. Adoptive transfer may hold promise, with reports of complete durable regression in metastatic CCA, yet this therapeutic approach may not be generalizable. Alternative approaches have been developed and promising results have been observed, but clinical trials are needed to validate their utility. While the treatment of hepatobiliary cancers involves unique challenges that these cancers present, the progress seen with ICIs and adoptive transfer has solidified immunotherapy as an important approach in these challenging patients with few other effective treatment options.
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21
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Charalampakis N, Papageorgiou G, Tsakatikas S, Fioretzaki R, Kole C, Kykalos S, Tolia M, Schizas D. Immunotherapy for cholangiocarcinoma: a 2021 update. Immunotherapy 2021; 13:1113-1134. [PMID: 34190581 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2021-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare malignancy with generally dismal prognosis. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the management of cancer patients during the last decade, offering durable responses with an acceptable safety profile, but there are still no significant advances regarding CCA. Novel immunotherapeutic methods, such as cancer vaccines, oncolytic viruses, adoptive cell therapy and combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors with other agents are currently under investigation and may improve prognosis. Efforts to find robust biomarkers for response are also ongoing. In this review, we discuss the rationale for the use of immunotherapy in CCA and available clinical data. Ongoing trials will also be presented, as well as key findings from each study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Charalampakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, Metaxa Cancer Hospital of Piraeus, Piraeus, 185 37, Greece
| | - Georgios Papageorgiou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Metaxa Cancer Hospital of Piraeus, Piraeus, 185 37, Greece
| | - Sergios Tsakatikas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Metaxa Cancer Hospital of Piraeus, Piraeus, 185 37, Greece
| | - Rodanthi Fioretzaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, Metaxa Cancer Hospital of Piraeus, Piraeus, 185 37, Greece
| | - Christo Kole
- First Department of Surgery, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, 115 27, Greece
| | - Stylianos Kykalos
- Second Propedeutic Department of Surgery, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, 115 27, Greece
| | - Maria Tolia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Crete, Voutes, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Schizas
- First Department of Surgery, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, 115 27, Greece
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22
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Glover M, Avraamides S, Maher J. How Can We Engineer CAR T Cells to Overcome Resistance? Biologics 2021; 15:175-198. [PMID: 34040345 PMCID: PMC8141613 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s252568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has achieved unrivalled success in the treatment of B cell and plasma cell malignancies, with five CAR T cell products now approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, CAR T cell therapies for solid tumours have not been nearly as successful, owing to several additional challenges. Here, we discuss mechanisms of tumour resistance in CAR T cell therapy and the emerging strategies that are under development to engineer CAR T cells to overcome resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Glover
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Stephanie Avraamides
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - John Maher
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK.,King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, UK.,Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, SE5 9RS, UK.,Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 2UD, UK
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23
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Anti-mucin 1 chimeric antigen receptor T cells for adoptive T cell therapy of cholangiocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6276. [PMID: 33737613 PMCID: PMC7973425 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85747-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Current treatments for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are largely unsuccessful due to late diagnosis at advanced stage, leading to high mortality rate. Consequently, improved therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a newly potential therapy that can recognize specific surface antigen without major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restriction. Mucin 1 (MUC1) is an attractive candidate antigen as it is highly expressed and associated with poor prognosis and survival in CCA. We, therefore, set forth to create the fourth-generation CAR (CAR4) construct containing anti-MUC1-single-chain variable fragment (scFv) and three co-stimulatory domains (CD28, CD137, and CD27) linked to CD3ζ and evaluate anti-MUC1-CAR4 T cells in CCA models. Compared to untransduced T cells, anti-MUC1-CAR4 T cells produced increased levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ and granzyme B when exposed to MUC1-expressing KKU-100 and KKU-213A CCA cells (all p < 0.05). Anti-MUC1-CAR4 T cells demonstrated specific killing activity against KKU-100 (45.88 ± 7.45%, p < 0.05) and KKU-213A cells (66.03 ± 3.14%, p < 0.001) at an effector to target ratio of 5:1, but demonstrated negligible cytolytic activity against immortal cholangiocytes. Furthermore, the anti-MUC1-CAR4 T cells could effectively disrupt KKU-213A spheroids. These activities of anti-MUC1-CAR4 T cells supports the development of this approach as an adoptive T cell therapeutic strategy for CCA.
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