1
|
Jacob EM, Huang J, Chen M. Lipid nanoparticle-based mRNA vaccines: a new frontier in precision oncology. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2024; 7:pbae017. [PMID: 39171210 PMCID: PMC11336688 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The delivery of lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based mRNA therapeutics has captured the attention of the vaccine research community as an innovative and versatile tool for treating a variety of human malignancies. mRNA vaccines are now in the limelight as an alternative to conventional vaccines owing to their high precision, low-cost, rapid manufacture, and superior safety profile. Multiple mRNA vaccine platforms have been developed to target several types of cancer, and many have demonstrated encouraging results in animal models and human trials. The effectiveness of these new mRNA vaccines depends on the efficacy and stability of the antigen(s) of interest generated and the reliability of their delivery to antigen-presenting cells (APCs), especially dendritic cells (DCs). In this review, we provide a detailed overview of mRNA vaccines and their delivery strategies and consider future directions and challenges in advancing and expanding this promising vaccine platform to widespread therapeutic use against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eden M Jacob
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jiaoti Huang
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hu X, Enbar T, Tang L. Delivery approaches of immunomodulatory nucleic acids for cancer therapy. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2024; 89:103182. [PMID: 39178725 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2024.103182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have made remarkable public health contributions during the pandemic and initiated a new era for nucleic acid-based therapeutics. With the unique strength of nucleic acids, including not only mRNA but also DNA, microRNA, small interfering RNA (siRNA), and other nucleic acids, either in tuning off genes or introducing function, nucleic acid therapeutics have been regarded as potential candidates for the treatment of many different diseases, especially for the immunomodulation in cancer. However, the scope of the applications was limited by the challenges in delivery due to intrinsic properties of nucleic acids including low stability, immunogenicity, and toxicity. Bioengineering approaches toward efficient and targeted delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids have gained momentum in clinical applications in the past few decades. Recent advances in the biotechnological approaches for the delivery of mRNA, siRNA, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas for immunomodulatory are promising alternatives in designing future cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Hu
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tom Enbar
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Li Tang
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Materials Science & Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sunoqrot S, Abdel Gaber SA, Abujaber R, Al-Majawleh M, Talhouni S. Lipid- and Polymer-Based Nanocarrier Platforms for Cancer Vaccine Delivery. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:4998-5019. [PMID: 38236081 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00843] [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: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has gained popularity in recent years in the search for effective treatment modalities for various malignancies, particularly those that are resistant to conventional chemo- and radiation therapy. Cancer vaccines target the cancer-immunity cycle by boosting the patient's own immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells, thus serving as both preventative and curative therapeutic tools. Among the different types of cancer vaccines, those based on nanotechnology have shown great promise in advancing the field of cancer immunotherapy. Lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) have become the most advanced platforms for cancer vaccine delivery, but polymer-based NPs have also received considerable interest. This Review aims to provide an overview of the nanotechnology-enabled cancer vaccine landscape, focusing on recent advances in lipid- and polymer-based nanovaccines and their hybrid structures and discussing the challenges against the clinical translation of these important nanomedicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suhair Sunoqrot
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Sara A Abdel Gaber
- Nanomedicine Department, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Razan Abujaber
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - May Al-Majawleh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Shahd Talhouni
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Neill B, Romero AR, Fenton OS. Advances in Nonviral mRNA Delivery Materials and Their Application as Vaccines for Melanoma Therapy. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:4894-4913. [PMID: 37930174 PMCID: PMC11220486 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are promising platforms for cancer immunotherapy because of their potential to encode for a variety of tumor antigens, high tolerability, and capacity to induce strong antitumor immune responses. However, the clinical translation of mRNA cancer vaccines can be hindered by the inefficient delivery of mRNA in vivo. In this review, we provide an overview of mRNA cancer vaccines by discussing their utility in treating melanoma. Specifically, we begin our review by describing the barriers that can impede mRNA delivery to target cells. We then review native mRNA structure and discuss various modification methods shown to enhance mRNA stability and transfection. Next, we outline the advantages and challenges of three nonviral carrier platforms (lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and lipopolyplexes) frequently used for mRNA delivery. Last, we summarize preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated nonviral mRNA vaccines for the treatment of melanoma. In writing this review, we aim to highlight innovative nonviral strategies designed to address mRNA delivery challenges while emphasizing the exciting potential of mRNA vaccines as next-generation therapies for the treatment of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bevin Neill
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Adriana Retamales Romero
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Owen S. Fenton
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chang J, Shin K, Lewis JM, Suh HW, Lee J, Damsky W, Xu S, Bosenberg M, Saltzman WM, Girardi M. Enhanced intratumoral delivery of immunomodulator MPLA via hyperbranched polyglycerol-coated biodegradable nanoparticles. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)01983-3. [PMID: 39122142 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Immunomodulatory agents (IMA) have significant potential to enhance cancer treatment but have demonstrated limited efficacy beyond the preclinical setting due to poor pharmacokinetics and toxicity associated with systemic administration. On the other hand, when locally delivered, IMAs require repeated administration to optimize immune stimulation. To overcome these challenges, we encapsulated the toll-like receptor (TLR)4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) within hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG)-coated biodegradable nanoparticles (NP) engineered for gradual drug release from the nanoparticle core, resulting in a more persistent stimulation of anti-tumor immune responses while minimizing systemic side effects. In a model of malignant melanoma, we demonstrate that HPG-NP encapsulation significantly improves the antitumor efficacy of MPLA by enhancing its ability to remodel the tumor microenvironment (TME). Compared to free MPLA, HPG-NP-MPLA significantly increased the natural killer cell and cytotoxic T cell mediated antitumor immune response and tuned the tumor draining lymph nodes towards a T helper (Th)1 response. Furthermore, when combined with local delivery of a chemotherapeutic agent, HPG-NP-MPLA induces the conversion of an immunosuppressive TME to immunogenic TME and significantly improves survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Chang
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kwangsoo Shin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Julia M Lewis
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hee Won Suh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Joohyung Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - William Damsky
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Suzanne Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Marcus Bosenberg
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Center for Immuno-Oncology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - W Mark Saltzman
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael Girardi
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ma Y, Liao J, Cheng H, Yang Q, Yang H. Advanced gene therapy system for the treatment of solid tumour: A review. Mater Today Bio 2024; 27:101138. [PMID: 39027677 PMCID: PMC11255123 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
In contrast to conventional therapies that require repeated dosing, gene therapy can treat diseases by correcting defective genes after a single transfection and achieving cascade amplification, and has been widely studied in clinical settings. However, nucleic acid drugs are prone to catabolism and inactivation. A variety of nucleic acid drug vectors have been developed to protect the target gene against nuclease degradation and increase the transformation efficiency and safety of gene therapy. In addition, gene therapy is often combined with chemotherapy, phototherapy, magnetic therapy, ultrasound, and other therapeutic modalities to improve the therapeutic effect. This review systematically introduces ribonucleic acid (RNA) interference technology, antisense oligonucleotides, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing. It also introduces the commonly used nucleic acid drug vectors, including viral vectors (adenovirus, retrovirus, etc.), organic vectors (lipids, polymers, etc.), and inorganic vectors (MOFs, carbon nanotubes, mesoporous silica, etc.). Then, we describe the combined gene therapy modalities and the pathways of action and report the recent applications in solid tumors of the combined gene therapy. Finally, the challenges of gene therapy in solid tumor treatment are introduced, and the prospect of application in this field is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Nano-Geomaterials of Ministry of Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Laboratory of Advanced Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Juan Liao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Mineral Materials and Application, School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Hongxia Cheng
- Engineering Research Center of Nano-Geomaterials of Ministry of Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Laboratory of Advanced Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Centre for Immune-oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Huaming Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Nano-Geomaterials of Ministry of Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Laboratory of Advanced Mineral Materials, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Mineral Materials and Application, School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang H, Bi X, Yan P, Wang C. Neutrophil extracellular trap related risk score exhibits crucial prognostic value in skin cutaneous melanoma, associating with distinct immune characteristics. Skin Res Technol 2024; 30:e70008. [PMID: 39167030 PMCID: PMC11337913 DOI: 10.1111/srt.70008] [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: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are related to the prognosis of cancer patients. Nevertheless, the potential prognostic values of NETs in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) remains largely unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS The NET-related gene signature was constructed by LASSO Cox regression analysis using the TCGA-SKCM cohort. The overall survival (OS) and immune status in SKCM patients between the high- and low-NET score (high-score, low-score) groups were explored. The scRNA-seq dataset GSE115978 was used to understand the role of NET score in SKCM at single cell resolution. RESULTS A five NET genes-based signature (TLR2, CLEC6A, PDE4B, SLC22A4 and CYP4F3) was constructed as the NET-related prognostic model for SKCM. The OS of SKCM patients with low-score was better than that in patients with high-score. Additionally, NET score was negatively associated with infiltration of some immune cells (e.g. type I Macrophages, CD8-T cells, CD4-T cells). Moreover, patients with high-score had low stromal, immune and ESTIMATE scores. Furthermore, drug sensitivity analysis results showed that Lapatinib, Trametinib and Erlotinib may have better therapeutic advantages in patients with high-score. CONCLUSION We established a NET-related five gene signature in SKCM and found that the NET-related signature may exhibit a good predictive ability for SKCM prognosis. The NET score may not only predict the survival outcome and drug sensitivity in SKCM, but also reflect the immune conditions of SKCM patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Zhang
- Department of Hand and Foot SurgeryZibo Central HospitalZiboChina
| | - Xiaoqing Bi
- Dermatology&S.T.D. DepartmentZibo Central HospitalZiboChina
| | - Pengrong Yan
- Dermatology&S.T.D. DepartmentZibo Central HospitalZiboChina
| | - Congcong Wang
- Dermatology&S.T.D. DepartmentZibo Central HospitalZiboChina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cheng Z, Fobian SF, Gurrieri E, Amin M, D'Agostino VG, Falahati M, Zalba S, Debets R, Garrido MJ, Saeed M, Seynhaeve ALB, Balcioglu HE, Ten Hagen TLM. Lipid-based nanosystems: the next generation of cancer immune therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:53. [PMID: 39030582 PMCID: PMC11265205 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01574-1] [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: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become an important part of the oncotherapy arsenal. Its applicability in various cancer types is impressive, as well as its use of endogenous mechanisms to achieve desired ends. However, off-target or on-target-off-tumor toxicity, limited activity, lack of control in combination treatments and, especially for solid tumors, low local accumulation, have collectively limited clinical use thereof. These limitations are partially alleviated by delivery systems. Lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as revolutionary carriers due to favorable physicochemical characteristics, with specific applications and strengths particularly useful in immunotherapeutic agent delivery. The aim of this review is to highlight the challenges faced by immunotherapy and how lipid-based NPs have been, and may be further utilized to address such challenges. We discuss recent fundamental and clinical applications of NPs in a range of areas and provide a detailed discussion of the main obstacles in immune checkpoint inhibition therapies, adoptive cellular therapies, and cytokine therapies. We highlight how lipid-based nanosystems could address these through either delivery, direct modulation of the immune system, or targeting of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. We explore advanced and emerging liposomal and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) systems for nucleic acid delivery, intrinsic and extrinsic stimulus-responsive formulations, and biomimetic lipid-based nanosystems in immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the key challenges relating to the clinical use of lipid-based NP immunotherapies, suggesting future research directions for the near term to realize the potential of these innovative lipid-based nanosystems, as they become the crucial steppingstone towards the necessary enhancement of the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziyun Cheng
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Nanomedicine Innovation Center Erasmus (NICE), Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Seth-Frerich Fobian
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Nanomedicine Innovation Center Erasmus (NICE), Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Gurrieri
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Mohamadreza Amin
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Nanomedicine Innovation Center Erasmus (NICE), Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vito Giuseppe D'Agostino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Mojtaba Falahati
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sara Zalba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Reno Debets
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - María J Garrido
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mesha Saeed
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ann L B Seynhaeve
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hayri E Balcioglu
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Timo L M Ten Hagen
- Precision Medicine in Oncology (PrMiO), Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Nanomedicine Innovation Center Erasmus (NICE), Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zang J, Mei Y, Zhu S, Yin S, Feng N, Ci T, Lyu Y. Natural Killer-Based Therapy: A Prospective Thought for Cancer Treatment Related to Diversified Drug Delivery Pathways. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:939. [PMID: 39065636 PMCID: PMC11279587 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070939] [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: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been a research hotspot due to its low side effects, long-lasting efficacy, and wide anti-tumor spectrum. Recently, NK cell-based immunotherapy has gained broad attention for its unique immunological character of tumor identification and eradication and low risk of graft-versus-host disease and cytokine storm. With the cooperation of a drug delivery system (DDS), NK cells activate tumoricidal activity by adjusting the balance of the activating and inhibitory signals on their surface after drug-loaded DDS administration. Moreover, NK cells or NK-derived exosomes can also be applied as drug carriers for distinct modification to promote NK activation and exert anti-tumor effects. In this review, we first introduce the source and classification of NK cells and describe the common activating and inhibitory receptors on their surface. Then, we summarize the strategies for activating NK cells in vivo through various DDSs. Finally, the application prospects of NK cells in tumor immunotherapy are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yijun Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Shiguo Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Shaoping Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine External Medication Development and Application, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China;
| | - Nianping Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Tianyuan Ci
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| | - Yaqi Lyu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (J.Z.); (N.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Khatua R, Bhar B, Dey S, Jaiswal C, J V, Mandal BB. Advances in engineered nanosystems: immunomodulatory interactions for therapeutic applications. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:12820-12856. [PMID: 38888201 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00680a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Advances in nanotechnology have led to significant progress in the design and fabrication of nanoparticles (NPs) with improved therapeutic properties. NPs have been explored for modulating the immune system, serving as carriers for drug delivery or vaccine adjuvants, or acting as therapeutics themselves against a wide range of deadly diseases. The combination of NPs with immune system-targeting moieties has facilitated the development of improved targeted immune therapies. Targeted delivery of therapeutic agents using NPs specifically to the disease-affected cells, distinguishing them from other host cells, offers the major advantage of concentrating the therapeutic effect and reducing systemic side effects. Furthermore, the properties of NPs, including size, shape, surface charge, and surface modifications, influence their interactions with the targeted biological components. This review aims to provide insights into these diverse emerging and innovative approaches that are being developed and utilized for modulating the immune system using NPs. We reviewed various types of NPs composed of different materials and their specific application for modulating the immune system. Furthermore, we focused on the mechanistic effects of these therapeutic NPs on primary immune components, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and complement systems. Additionally, a recent overview of clinically approved immunomodulatory nanomedicines and potential future perspectives, offering new paradigms of this field, is also highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupam Khatua
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
| | - Bibrita Bhar
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
| | - Souradeep Dey
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India
| | - Chitra Jaiswal
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
| | - Victoria J
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen M, Zhou Y, Fu Y, Wang Q, Wu C, Pan X, Quan G. Biomaterials-assisted cancer vaccine delivery: preclinical landscape, challenges, and opportunities. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:1143-1154. [PMID: 39096307 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2388832] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer vaccines (protein and peptide, DNA, mRNA, and tumor cell) have achieved remarkable success in the treatment of cancer. In particular, advances in the design and manufacture of biomaterials have made it possible to control the presentation and delivery of vaccine components to immune cells. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes findings from major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on articles published between 2005 and 2024 that discuss biomaterials in cancer vaccine delivery. EXPERT OPINION The development of cancer vaccines is hindered by several bottlenecks, including low immunogenicity, instability of vaccine components, and challenges in evaluating their clinical efficacy. To transform preclinical successes into viable treatments, it is essential to pursue continued innovation, collaborative research, and address issues related to scalability, regulatory pathways, and clinical validation, ultimately improving outcomes against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minglong Chen
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanping Fu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Chuanbin Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Pan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Guilan Quan
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Xu S, Xu Y, Solek NC, Chen J, Gong F, Varley AJ, Golubovic A, Pan A, Dong S, Zheng G, Li B. Tumor-Tailored Ionizable Lipid Nanoparticles Facilitate IL-12 Circular RNA Delivery for Enhanced Lung Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400307. [PMID: 38657273 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The advancement of message RNA (mRNA) -based immunotherapies for cancer is highly dependent on the effective delivery of RNA (Ribonucleic) payloads using ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). However, the clinical application of these therapies is hindered by variable mRNA expression among different cancer types and the risk of systemic toxicity. The transient expression profile of mRNA further complicates this issue, necessitating frequent dosing and thus increasing the potential for adverse effects. Addressing these challenges, a high-throughput combinatorial method is utilized to synthesize and screen LNPs that efficiently deliver circular RNA (circRNA) to lung tumors. The lead LNP, H1L1A1B3, demonstrates a fourfold increase in circRNA transfection efficiency in lung cancer cells over ALC-0315, the industry-standard LNPs, while providing potent immune activation. A single intratumoral injection of H1L1A1B3 LNPs, loaded with circRNA encoding interleukin-12 (IL-12), induces a robust immune response in a Lewis lung carcinoma model, leading to marked tumor regression. Immunological profiling of treated tumors reveals substantial increments in CD45+ leukocytes and enhances infiltration of CD8+ T cells, underscoring the ability of H1L1A1B3 LNPs to modulate the tumor microenvironment favorably. These results highlight the potential of tailored LNP platforms to advance RNA drug delivery for cancer therapy, broadening the prospects for RNA immunotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Xu
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Yue Xu
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Nicholas C Solek
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Jingan Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Fanglin Gong
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Andrew James Varley
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Alex Golubovic
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Anni Pan
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Songtao Dong
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Gang Zheng
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Bowen Li
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kang DD, Hou X, Wang L, Xue Y, Li H, Zhong Y, Wang S, Deng B, McComb DW, Dong Y. Engineering LNPs with polysarcosine lipids for mRNA delivery. Bioact Mater 2024; 37:86-93. [PMID: 38523704 PMCID: PMC10957522 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the approval of the lipid nanoparticles (LNP)-mRNA vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, there has been an increased interest in the delivery of mRNA through LNPs. However, current LNP formulations contain PEG lipids, which can stimulate the generation of anti-PEG antibodies. The presence of these antibodies can potentially cause adverse reactions and reduce therapeutic efficacy after administration. Given the widespread deployment of the COVID-19 vaccines, the increased exposure to PEG may necessitate the evaluation of alternative LNP formulations without PEG components. In this study, we investigated a series of polysarcosine (pSar) lipids as alternatives to the PEG lipids to determine whether pSar lipids could still provide the functionality of the PEG lipids in the ALC-0315 and SM-102 LNP systems. We found that complete replacement of the PEG lipid with a pSar lipid can increase or maintain mRNA delivery efficiency and exhibit similar safety profiles in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana D. Kang
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Xucheng Hou
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Leiming Wang
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yonger Xue
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Haoyuan Li
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yichen Zhong
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Siyu Wang
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Binbin Deng
- Center for Electron Microscopy and Analysis, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43212, USA
| | - David W. McComb
- Center for Electron Microscopy and Analysis, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43212, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Murphy B, Miyamoto T, Manning BS, Mirji G, Ugolini A, Kannan T, Hamada K, Zhu YP, Claiborne DT, Huang L, Zhang R, Nefedova Y, Kossenkov A, Veglia F, Shinde R, Zhang N. Intraperitoneal activation of myeloid cells clears ascites and reveals IL27-dependent regression of metastatic ovarian cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.25.600597. [PMID: 38979222 PMCID: PMC11230450 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.25.600597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Patients with metastatic ovarian cancer (OvCa) have a 5-year survival rate of less than 30% due to persisting dissemination of chemoresistant cells in the peritoneal fluid and the immunosuppressive microenvironment in the peritoneal cavity. Here, we report that intraperitoneal administration of β-glucan and IFNγ (BI) induced robust tumor regression in clinically relevant models of metastatic OvCa. BI induced tumor regression by controlling fluid tumor burden and activating localized antitumor immunity. β-glucan alone cleared ascites and eliminated fluid tumor cells by inducing intraperitoneal clotting in the fluid and Dectin-1-Syk-dependent NETosis in the omentum. In omentum tumors, BI expanded a novel subset of immunostimulatory IL27+ macrophages and neutralizing IL27 impaired BI efficacy in vivo. Moreover, BI directly induced IL27 secretion in macrophages where single agent treatment did not. Finally, BI extended mouse survival in a chemoresistant model and significantly improved chemotherapy response in a chemo-sensitive model. In summary, we propose a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of metastatic OvCa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brennah Murphy
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Taito Miyamoto
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bryan S. Manning
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gauri Mirji
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alessio Ugolini
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Toshitha Kannan
- Gene Expression & Regulation Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kohei Hamada
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University, Japan
| | | | - Daniel T. Claiborne
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Rugang Zhang
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yulia Nefedova
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew Kossenkov
- Gene Expression & Regulation Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Filippo Veglia
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rahul Shinde
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nan Zhang
- Immunology, Microenvironment & Metastasis Program, Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ahmad I, Altameemi KKA, Hani MM, Ali AM, Shareef HK, Hassan ZF, Alubiady MHS, Al-Abdeen SHZ, Shakier HG, Redhee AH. Shifting cold to hot tumors by nanoparticle-loaded drugs and products. Clin Transl Oncol 2024:10.1007/s12094-024-03577-3. [PMID: 38922537 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03577-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Cold tumors lack antitumor immunity and are resistant to therapy, representing a major challenge in cancer medicine. Because of the immunosuppressive spirit of the tumor microenvironment (TME), this form of tumor has a low response to immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and also chemotherapy. Cold tumors have low infiltration of immune cells and a high expression of co-inhibitory molecules, such as immune checkpoints and immunosuppressive molecules. Therefore, targeting TME and remodeling immunity in cold tumors can improve the chance of tumor repression after therapy. However, tumor stroma prevents the infiltration of inflammatory cells and hinders the penetration of diverse molecules and drugs. Nanoparticles are an intriguing tool for the delivery of immune modulatory agents and shifting cold to hot tumors. In this review article, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the ability of nanoparticles loaded with different drugs and products to modulate TME and enhance immune cell infiltration. We also focus on newest progresses in the design and development of nanoparticle-based strategies for changing cold to hot tumors. These include the use of nanoparticles for targeted delivery of immunomodulatory agents, such as cytokines, small molecules, and checkpoint inhibitors, and for co-delivery of chemotherapy drugs and immunomodulatory agents. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of nanoparticles for enhancing the efficacy of cancer vaccines and cell therapy for overcoming resistance to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Mohaned Mohammed Hani
- Department of Medical Instrumentation Engineering Techniques, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al Muthanna, Iraq
| | - Afaq Mahdi Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Al-Turath University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Hasanain Khaleel Shareef
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Science, Al-Mustaqbal University, Hilla, Iraq
- Biology Department, College of Science for Women, University of Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
| | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed Huseen Redhee
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- Medical Laboratory Technique College, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ur Rehman A, Wang Z, Qin Q, Zhang X, Akhtar A, Liu H, Mao B, Khan N, Tang L, Li X. Enhancing antitumor immunity and achieving tumor eradication with IL11RA mRNA immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 134:112205. [PMID: 38718659 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Current methods for delivering genes to target tumors face significant challenges, including off-target effects and immune responses against delivery vectors. In this study, we developed a novel approach using messenger RNA (mRNA) to encode IL11RA for local immunotherapy, aiming to harness the immune system to combat tumors. Our research uncovered a compelling correlation between IL11RA expression and CD8 + T cell levels across multiple tumor types, with elevated IL11RA expression correlating with improved overall survival. Examination of the Pan-Cancer Atlas dataset showed a significant reduction in IL11RA expression in various cancer types compared to normal tissue, raising questions about its potential role in tumorigenesis. To achieve efficient in vivo expression of IL11RA, we synthesized two mRNA sequences mimicking the wild-type protein. These mRNA sequences were formulated and capped to ensure effective delivery, resulting in robust expression within tumor sites. Our investigation into IL11RA mRNA therapy demonstrated its effectiveness in controlling tumor growth when administered both intratumorally and intravenously in mouse models. Additionally, IL11RA mRNA treatment significantly stimulated the expansion of CD8 + T cells within tumors, draining lymph nodes, and the spleen. Transcriptome analysis revealed distinct transcriptional patterns associated with T cell functions. Using multiple deconvolution algorithms, we found substantial infiltration of CD8 + T cells following IL11RA mRNA treatment, highlighting its immunomodulatory effects within the tumor microenvironment. In conclusion, IL11RA mRNA therapy presents a promising strategy for tumor regression with potential immunomodulatory effects and clinical implications for improved survival outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Ur Rehman
- Clinical Molecular Medicine Testing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disease and Aging Research (Ministry of Education), Institute for Brain Science and Disease, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Zhihuai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou No.2 People's Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213000, China
| | - Qianshan Qin
- Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhang
- Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Aleena Akhtar
- Clinical Molecular Medicine Testing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hanyang Liu
- Charité‑University Medical Center, Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Virchow Campus, and Molecular Cancer Research Center, D‑13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Binli Mao
- Clinical Molecular Medicine Testing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Naveed Khan
- Graduate School of Green-Bio Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Korea
| | - Liming Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou No.2 People's Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213000, China
| | - Xiaosong Li
- Clinical Molecular Medicine Testing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disease and Aging Research (Ministry of Education), Institute for Brain Science and Disease, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Jiang Z, Fu Y, Shen H. Development of Intratumoral Drug Delivery Based Strategies for Antitumor Therapy. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2189-2202. [PMID: 38882051 PMCID: PMC11179649 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s467835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Research for tumor treatment with significant therapy effects and minimal side-effects has been widely carried over the past few decades. Different drug forms have received a lot of attention. However, systemic biodistribution induces efficacy and safety issues. Intratumoral delivery of agents might overcome these problems because of its abundant tumor accumulation and retention, thereby reducing side effects. Delivering hydrogels, nanoparticles, microneedles, and microspheres drug carriers directly to tumors can realize not only targeted tumor therapy but also low side-effects. Furthermore, intratumoral administration has been integrated with treatment strategies such as chemotherapy, enhancing radiotherapy, immunotherapy, phototherapy, magnetic fluid hyperthermia, and multimodal therapy. Some of these strategies are ongoing clinical trials or applied clinically. However, many barriers hinder it from being an ideal and widely used option, such as decreased drug penetration impeded by collagen fibers of a tumor, drug squeezed out by high density and high pressure, mature intratumoral injection technique. In this review, we systematically discuss intratumoral delivery of different drug carriers and current development of intratumoral therapy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuzhi Fu
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongxin Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Biggi AFB, Silvestre RN, Tirapelle MC, de Azevedo JTC, García HDM, Henrique Dos Santos M, de Lima SCG, de Souza LEB, Covas DT, Malmegrim KCR, Figueiredo ML, Picanço-Castro V. IL-27-engineered CAR.19-NK-92 cells exhibit enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Cytotherapy 2024:S1465-3249(24)00734-5. [PMID: 38970613 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering of natural killer (NK) cells has shown promising results in early-phase clinical studies. However, advancing CAR-NK cell therapeutic efficacy is imperative. In this study, we investigated the impact of a fourth-generation CD19-targeted CAR (CAR.19) coexpressing IL-27 on NK-92 cells. We observed a significant improvement in NK-92 cell proliferation and cytotoxicity activity against B-cell cancer cell lines, both in vitro and in a xenograft mouse B-cell lymphoma model. Our systematic transcriptome analysis of the activated NK-92 CAR variants further supports the potential of IL-27 in fourth-generation CARs to overcome limitations of NK cell-based targeted tumor therapies by providing essential growth and activation signals. Integrating IL-27 into CAR-NK cells emerges as a promising strategy to enhance their therapeutic potential and elicit robust responses against cancer cells. These findings contribute substantially to the mounting evidence supporting the potential of fourth-generation CAR engineering in advancing NK cell-based immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Felipe Bordini Biggi
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renata Nacasaki Silvestre
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariane Cariati Tirapelle
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Teixeira Cottas de Azevedo
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Hemotherapy and Cellular Therapy, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Matheus Henrique Dos Santos
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sarah Caroline Gomes de Lima
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kelen Cristina Ribeiro Malmegrim
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marxa L Figueiredo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Virginia Picanço-Castro
- Center for Cell-based Therapy CTC, Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Huayamares SG, Loughrey D, Kim H, Dahlman JE, Sorscher EJ. Nucleic acid-based drugs for patients with solid tumours. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:407-427. [PMID: 38589512 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00883-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of patients with advanced-stage solid tumours typically involves a multimodality approach (including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy), which is often ultimately ineffective. Nucleic acid-based drugs, either as monotherapies or in combination with standard-of-care therapies, are rapidly emerging as novel treatments capable of generating responses in otherwise refractory tumours. These therapies include those using viral vectors (also referred to as gene therapies), several of which have now been approved by regulatory agencies, and nanoparticles containing mRNAs and a range of other nucleotides. In this Review, we describe the development and clinical activity of viral and non-viral nucleic acid-based treatments, including their mechanisms of action, tolerability and available efficacy data from patients with solid tumours. We also describe the effects of the tumour microenvironment on drug delivery for both systemically administered and locally administered agents. Finally, we discuss important trends resulting from ongoing clinical trials and preclinical testing, and manufacturing and/or stability considerations that are expected to underpin the next generation of nucleic acid agents for patients with solid tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian G Huayamares
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David Loughrey
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James E Dahlman
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Eric J Sorscher
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wang K, Gao Y, Wu S, Zhang J, Zhu M, Chen X, Fu X, Duan X, Men K. Dual-mRNA Delivery Using Tumor Cell Lysate-Based Multifunctional Nanoparticles as an Efficient Colon Cancer Immunogene Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4779-4801. [PMID: 38828196 PMCID: PMC11141578 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s452548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based immunogene therapy holds significant promise as an emerging tumor therapy approach. However, the delivery efficiency of existing mRNA methods and their effectiveness in stimulating anti-tumor immune responses require further enhancement. Tumor cell lysates containing tumor-specific antigens and biomarkers can trigger a stronger immune response to tumors. In addition, strategies involving multiple gene therapies offer potential optimization paths for tumor gene treatments. Methods Based on the previously developed ideal mRNA delivery system called DOTAP-mPEG-PCL (DMP), which was formed through the self-assembly of 1.2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) and methoxypoly (ethylene glycol)-b-poly (ε-caprolactone) (mPEG-PCL), we introduced a fused cell-penetrating peptide (fCPP) into the framework and encapsulated tumor cell lysates to form a novel nanovector, termed CLSV system (CLS: CT26 tumor cell lysate, V: nanovector). This system served a dual purpose of facilitating the delivery of two mRNAs and enhancing tumor immunogene therapy through tumor cell lysates. Results The synthesized CLSV system had an average size of 241.17 nm and a potential of 39.53 mV. The CLSV system could not only encapsulate tumor cell lysates, but also deliver two mRNAs to tumor cells simultaneously, with a transfection efficiency of up to 60%. The CLSV system effectively activated the immune system such as dendritic cells to mature and activate, leading to an anti-tumor immune response. By loading Bim-encoded mRNA and IL-23A-encoded mRNA, CLSV/Bim and CLSV/IL-23A complexes were formed, respectively, to further induce apoptosis and anti-tumor immunity. The prepared CLSV/dual-mRNA complex showed significant anti-cancer effects in multiple CT26 mouse models. Conclusion Our results suggest that the prepared CLSV system is an ideal delivery system for dual-mRNA immunogene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Manfang Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiayu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xizi Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xingmei Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Men
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Saha P, Ajgaonkar S, Maniar D, Sahare S, Mehta D, Nair S. Current insights into transcriptional role(s) for the nutraceutical Withania somnifera in inflammation and aging. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1370951. [PMID: 38765810 PMCID: PMC11099240 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1370951] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The health-beneficial effects of nutraceuticals in various diseases have received enhanced attention in recent years. Aging is a continuous process wherein physiological activity of an individual declines over time and is characterized by various indefinite hallmarks which contribute toward aging-related comorbidities in an individual which include many neurodegenerative diseases, cardiac problems, diabetes, bone-degeneration, and cancer. Cellular senescence is a homeostatic biological process that has an important function in driving aging. Currently, a growing body of evidence substantiates the connection between epigenetic modifications and the aging process, along with aging-related diseases. These modifications are now being recognized as promising targets for emerging therapeutic interventions. Considering that almost all the biological processes are modulated by RNAs, numerous RNA-binding proteins have been found to be linked to aging and age-related complexities. Currently, studies have shed light on the ability of the nutraceutical Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) to influence RNA expression, stability, and processing, offering insights into its mechanisms of action. By targeting RNA-related pathways, Withania somnifera may exhibit promising effects in ameliorating age-associated molecular changes, which include modifications in gene expression and signaling networks. This review summarizes the potential role of Withania somnifera as a nutraceutical in modulating RNA-level changes associated with aging, encompassing both in vitro and in vivo studies. Taken together, the putative role(s) of Withania in modulation of key RNAs will provide insights into understanding the aging process and facilitate the development of various preventive and therapeutic strategies employing nutraceuticals for healthy aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Praful Saha
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | - Saiprasad Ajgaonkar
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | - Dishant Maniar
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | - Simran Sahare
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | - Dilip Mehta
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | - Sujit Nair
- PhytoVeda Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
- Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Taibi T, Cheon S, Perna F, Vu LP. mRNA-based therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00299-5. [PMID: 38702886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the rapidly evolving landscape of medical research, the emergence of RNA-based therapeutics is paradigm shifting. It is mainly driven by the molecular adaptability and capacity to provide precision in targeting. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic crisis underscored the effectiveness of the mRNA therapeutic development platform and brought it to the forefront of RNA-based interventions. These RNA-based therapeutic approaches can reshape gene expression, manipulate cellular functions, and correct the aberrant molecular processes underlying various diseases. The new technologies hold the potential to engineer and deliver tailored therapeutic agents to tackle genetic disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases in a highly personalized and precisely tuned manner. The review discusses the most recent advancements in the field of mRNA therapeutics for cancer treatment, with a focus on the features of the most utilized RNA-based therapeutic interventions, current pre-clinical and clinical developments, and the remaining challenges in delivery strategies, effectiveness, and safety considerations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thilelli Taibi
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sehyun Cheon
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fabiana Perna
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ly P Vu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhao Y, Ma W, Tian K, Wang Z, Fu X, Zuo Q, Qi Y, Zhang S. Sucrose ester embedded lipid carrier for DNA delivery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114269. [PMID: 38527635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114269] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Sucrose esters (SEs) have great potential in the field of nucleic acid delivery due to their unique physical and chemical properties and good biosafety. However, the mechanism of the effect of SEs structure on delivery efficiency has not been studied. The liposomes containing peptide lipids and SEs were constructed, and the effects of SEs on the interaction between the liposomes and DNA were studied. The addition of SEs affects the binding rate of liposomes to DNA, and the binding rate gradually decreases with the increase of SEs' carbon chain length. SEs also affect the binding site and affinity of liposomes to DNA, promoting the aggregation of lipids to form liposomes, where DNA wraps around or compresses inside the liposomes, allowing it to compress DNA without damaging the DNA structure. COL-6, which is composed of sucrose laurate, exhibits the optimal affinity for DNA, and SE promotes the formation of ordered membrane structure and enhances membrane stability, so that COL-6 exhibits a balance between rigidity and flexibility, and thus exhibits the highest delivery efficiency of DNA among these formulations. This work provides theoretical foundations for the application of SE in gene delivery and guides for the rational design of delivery systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Wanting Ma
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Kexin Tian
- College of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Xingxing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Qi Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
| | - Yanfei Qi
- Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia.
| | - Shubiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sun W, Xie S, Liu SF, Hu X, Xing D. Evolving Tumor Characteristics and Smart Nanodrugs for Tumor Immunotherapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3919-3942. [PMID: 38708176 PMCID: PMC11070166 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s453265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Typical physiological characteristics of tumors, such as weak acidity, low oxygen content, and upregulation of certain enzymes in the tumor microenvironment (TME), provide survival advantages when exposed to targeted attacks by drugs and responsive nanomedicines. Consequently, cancer treatment has significantly progressed in recent years. However, the evolution and adaptation of tumor characteristics still pose many challenges for current treatment methods. Therefore, efficient and precise cancer treatments require an understanding of the heterogeneity degree of various factors in cancer cells during tumor evolution to exploit the typical TME characteristics and manage the mutation process. The highly heterogeneous tumor and infiltrating stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular components collectively form a unique TME, which plays a crucial role in tumor malignancy, including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and immune escape. Therefore, the development of new treatment methods that can adapt to the evolutionary characteristics of tumors has become an intense focus in current cancer treatment research. This paper explores the latest understanding of cancer evolution, focusing on how tumors use new antigens to shape their "new faces"; how immune system cells, such as cytotoxic T cells, regulatory T cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells, help tumors become "invisible", that is, immune escape; whether the diverse cancer-associated fibroblasts provide support and coordination for tumors; and whether it is possible to attack tumors in reverse. This paper discusses the limitations of targeted therapy driven by tumor evolution factors and explores future strategies and the potential of intelligent nanomedicines, including the systematic coordination of tumor evolution factors and adaptive methods, to meet this therapeutic challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenshe Sun
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaowei Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi Feng Liu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaokun Hu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongming Xing
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Guo Z, Ye J, Cheng X, Wang T, Zhang Y, Yang K, Du S, Li P. Nanodrug Delivery Systems in Antitumor Immunotherapy. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0015. [PMID: 38840653 PMCID: PMC11045275 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer has become one of the most important factors threatening human health, and the global cancer burden has been increasing rapidly. Immunotherapy has become another clinical research hotspot after surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy because of its high efficiency and tumor metastasis prevention. However, problems such as lower immune response rate and immune-related adverse reaction in the clinical application of immunotherapy need to be urgently solved. With the development of nanodrug delivery systems, various nanocarrier materials have been used in the research of antitumor immunotherapy with encouraging therapeutic results. In this review, we mainly summarized the combination of nanodrug delivery systems and immunotherapy from the following 4 aspects: (a) nanodrug delivery systems combined with cytokine therapy to improve cytokines delivery in vivo; (b) nanodrug delivery systems provided a suitable platform for the combination of immune checkpoint blockade therapy with other tumor treatments; (c) nanodrug delivery systems helped deliver antigens and adjuvants for tumor vaccines to enhance immune effects; and (d) nanodrug delivery systems improved tumor treatment efficiency and reduced toxicity for adoptive cell therapy. Nanomaterials chosen by researchers to construct nanodrug delivery systems and their function were also introduced in detail. Finally, we discussed the current challenges and future prospects in combining nanodrug delivery systems with immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zishuo Guo
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Jinhong Ye
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xuehao Cheng
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Tieshan Wang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- YiDu Central Hospital of Weifang, Weifang, Shandong 262500, China
| | - Kaili Yang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | | | - Pengyue Li
- Address correspondence to: (P.L.); (S.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Eskandari A, Leow TC, Rahman MBA, Oslan SN. Advances in Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines, Their Obstacles, and Prospects Toward Tumor Immunotherapy. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01144-3. [PMID: 38625508 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, cancer immunotherapy has experienced a significant revolution due to the advancements in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and adoptive cell therapies (ACTs), along with their regulatory approvals. In recent times, there has been hope in the effectiveness of cancer vaccines for therapy as they have been able to stimulate de novo T-cell reactions against tumor antigens. These tumor antigens include both tumor-associated antigen (TAA) and tumor-specific antigen (TSA). Nevertheless, the constant quest to fully achieve these abilities persists. Therefore, this review offers a broad perspective on the existing status of cancer immunizations. Cancer vaccine design has been revolutionized due to the advancements made in antigen selection, the development of antigen delivery systems, and a deeper understanding of the strategic intricacies involved in effective antigen presentation. In addition, this review addresses the present condition of clinical tests and deliberates on their approaches, with a particular emphasis on the immunogenicity specific to tumors and the evaluation of effectiveness against tumors. Nevertheless, the ongoing clinical endeavors to create cancer vaccines have failed to produce remarkable clinical results as a result of substantial obstacles, such as the suppression of the tumor immune microenvironment, the identification of suitable candidates, the assessment of immune responses, and the acceleration of vaccine production. Hence, there are possibilities for the industry to overcome challenges and enhance patient results in the coming years. This can be achieved by recognizing the intricate nature of clinical issues and continuously working toward surpassing existing limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Eskandari
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology Research Centre, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Thean Chor Leow
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology Research Centre, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Siti Nurbaya Oslan
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology Research Centre, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wu Y, Yu S, de Lázaro I. Advances in lipid nanoparticle mRNA therapeutics beyond COVID-19 vaccines. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:6820-6836. [PMID: 38502114 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00019f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The remarkable success of two lipid nanoparticle-mRNA vaccines against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has placed the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of messenger RNA (mRNA) in the spotlight. It has also drawn attention to the indispensable role of lipid nanoparticles in enabling the effects of this nucleic acid. To date, lipid nanoparticles are the most clinically advanced non-viral platforms for mRNA delivery. This is thanks to their favorable safety profile and efficiency in protecting the nucleic acid from degradation and allowing its cellular uptake and cytoplasmic release upon endosomal escape. Moreover, the development of lipid nanoparticle-mRNA therapeutics was already a very active area of research even before the COVID-19 pandemic, which has likely only begun to bear its fruits. In this Review, we first discuss key aspects of the development of lipid nanoparticles as mRNA carriers. We then highlight promising preclinical and clinical studies involving lipid nanoparticle-mRNA formulations against infectious diseases and cancer, and to enable protein replacement or supplementation and genome editing. Finally, we elaborate on the challenges in advancing lipid nanoparticle-mRNA technology to widespread therapeutic use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeung Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
| | - Sinuo Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
| | - Irene de Lázaro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, USA
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Harvard University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lu Q, Kou D, Lou S, Ashrafizadeh M, Aref AR, Canadas I, Tian Y, Niu X, Wang Y, Torabian P, Wang L, Sethi G, Tergaonkar V, Tay F, Yuan Z, Han P. Nanoparticles in tumor microenvironment remodeling and cancer immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:16. [PMID: 38566199 PMCID: PMC10986145 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01535-8] [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: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy and vaccine development have significantly improved the fight against cancers. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in the clinical delivery of immunomodulatory compounds. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising macrophages, fibroblasts, and immune cells, plays a crucial role in immune response modulation. Nanoparticles, engineered to reshape the TME, have shown promising results in enhancing immunotherapy by facilitating targeted delivery and immune modulation. These nanoparticles can suppress fibroblast activation, promote M1 macrophage polarization, aid dendritic cell maturation, and encourage T cell infiltration. Biomimetic nanoparticles further enhance immunotherapy by increasing the internalization of immunomodulatory agents in immune cells such as dendritic cells. Moreover, exosomes, whether naturally secreted by cells in the body or bioengineered, have been explored to regulate the TME and immune-related cells to affect cancer immunotherapy. Stimuli-responsive nanocarriers, activated by pH, redox, and light conditions, exhibit the potential to accelerate immunotherapy. The co-application of nanoparticles with immune checkpoint inhibitors is an emerging strategy to boost anti-tumor immunity. With their ability to induce long-term immunity, nanoarchitectures are promising structures in vaccine development. This review underscores the critical role of nanoparticles in overcoming current challenges and driving the advancement of cancer immunotherapy and TME modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Dongquan Kou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Shenghan Lou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Xsphera Biosciences, Translational Medicine Group, 6 Tide Street, Boston, MA, 02210, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Israel Canadas
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yu Tian
- School of Public Health, Benedictine University, Lisle, USA
| | - Xiaojia Niu
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada
| | - Pedram Torabian
- Cumming School of Medicine, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 16 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 16 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, 138673, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Franklin Tay
- The Graduate School, Augusta University, 30912, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Zhennan Yuan
- Department of Oncology Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| | - Peng Han
- Department of Oncology Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology in Heilongjiang, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu J, Cabral H, Mi P. Nanocarriers address intracellular barriers for efficient drug delivery, overcoming drug resistance, subcellular targeting and controlled release. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115239. [PMID: 38437916 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115239] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The cellular barriers are major bottlenecks for bioactive compounds entering into cells to accomplish their biological functions, which limits their biomedical applications. Nanocarriers have demonstrated high potential and benefits for encapsulating bioactive compounds and efficiently delivering them into target cells by overcoming a cascade of intracellular barriers to achieve desirable therapeutic and diagnostic effects. In this review, we introduce the cellular barriers ahead of drug delivery and nanocarriers, as well as summarize recent advances and strategies of nanocarriers for increasing internalization with cells, promoting intracellular trafficking, overcoming drug resistance, targeting subcellular locations and controlled drug release. Lastly, the future perspectives of nanocarriers for intracellular drug delivery are discussed, which mainly focus on potential challenges and future directions. Our review presents an overview of intracellular drug delivery by nanocarriers, which may encourage the future development of nanocarriers for efficient and precision drug delivery into a wide range of cells and subcellular targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
| | - Peng Mi
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17 South Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sousa F. Emerging cytokine delivery with nanomedicine for brain cancer treatment. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:513-516. [PMID: 38652095 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2347320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Sousa
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Erana-Perez Z, Igartua M, Santos-Vizcaino E, Hernandez RM. Genetically engineered loaded extracellular vesicles for drug delivery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:350-365. [PMID: 38508958 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.02.006] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) for drug delivery is being widely explored by scientists from several research fields. To fully exploit their therapeutic potential, multiple methods for loading EVs have been developed. Although exogenous methods have been extensively utilized, in recent years the endogenous method has gained significant attention. This approach, based on parental cell genetic engineering, is suitable for loading large therapeutic biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. We review the most commonly used EV loading methods and emphasize the inherent advantages of the endogenous method over the others. We also examine the most recent advances and applications of this innovative approach to inform on the diverse therapeutic opportunities that lie ahead in the field of EV-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuriñe Erana-Perez
- NanoBioCel Group, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Manoli Igartua
- NanoBioCel Group, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Edorta Santos-Vizcaino
- NanoBioCel Group, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Rosa Maria Hernandez
- NanoBioCel Group, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bitounis D, Jacquinet E, Rogers MA, Amiji MM. Strategies to reduce the risks of mRNA drug and vaccine toxicity. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:281-300. [PMID: 38263456 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00859-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
mRNA formulated with lipid nanoparticles is a transformative technology that has enabled the rapid development and administration of billions of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine doses worldwide. However, avoiding unacceptable toxicity with mRNA drugs and vaccines presents challenges. Lipid nanoparticle structural components, production methods, route of administration and proteins produced from complexed mRNAs all present toxicity concerns. Here, we discuss these concerns, specifically how cell tropism and tissue distribution of mRNA and lipid nanoparticles can lead to toxicity, and their possible reactogenicity. We focus on adverse events from mRNA applications for protein replacement and gene editing therapies as well as vaccines, tracing common biochemical and cellular pathways. The potential and limitations of existing models and tools used to screen for on-target efficacy and de-risk off-target toxicity, including in vivo and next-generation in vitro models, are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Bitounis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Liu M, Hu S, Yan N, Popowski KD, Cheng K. Inhalable extracellular vesicle delivery of IL-12 mRNA to treat lung cancer and promote systemic immunity. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:565-575. [PMID: 38212521 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-023-01580-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Lung carcinoma is one of the most common cancers and has one of the lowest survival rates in the world. Cytokines such as interleukin-12 (IL-12) have demonstrated considerable potential as robust tumour suppressors. However, their applications are limited due to off-target toxicity. Here we report on a strategy involving the inhalation of IL-12 messenger RNA, encapsulated within extracellular vesicles. Inhalation and preferential uptake by cancer cells results in targeted delivery and fewer systemic side effects. The IL-12 messenger RNA generates interferon-γ production in both innate and adaptive immune-cell populations. This activation consequently incites an intense activation state in the tumour microenvironment and augments its immunogenicity. The increased immune response results in the expansion of tumour cytotoxic immune effector cells, the formation of immune memory, improved antigen presentation and tumour-specific T cell priming. The strategy is demonstrated against primary neoplastic lesions and provides profound protection against subsequent tumour rechallenge. This shows the potential for locally delivered cytokine-based immunotherapies to address orthotopic and metastatic lung tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengrui Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shiqi Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Na Yan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristen D Popowski
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill/Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ke Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill/Raleigh, NC, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Jiang Y, Zhang Y, Liu C, Liu J, Xue W, Wang Z, Li X. Tumor-activated IL-2 mRNA delivered by lipid nanoparticles for cancer immunotherapy. J Control Release 2024; 368:663-675. [PMID: 38492862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.016] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) exhibits the unique capacity to modulate immune functions, potentially exerting antitumor effects by stimulating immune responses, making it highly promising for immunotherapy. However, the clinical use of recombinant IL-2 protein faces significant limitations due to its short half-life and systemic toxicity. To overcome these challenges and fully exploit IL-2's potential in tumor immunotherapy, this study reports the development of a tumor-activated IL-2 mRNA, delivered via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Initially, ionizable lipid U-101 derived nanoparticles (U-101-LNP) were prepared using microfluidic technology. Subsequent in vitro and in vivo delivery tests demonstrated that U-101-LNP achieved more effective transfection than the approved ALC-0315-LNP. Following this, IL-2F mRNAs, encoding fusion proteins comprising IL-2, a linker, and CD25 (IL-2Rα), were designed and synthesized through in vitro transcription. A cleavable linker, consisting of the peptide sequence SGRSEN↓IRTA, was selected for cleavage by matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14). IL-2F mRNA was then encapsulated in U-101-LNP to create U-101-LNP/IL-2F mRNA complexes. After optimization, assessments of expression efficiency, masking, and release characteristics revealed that IL-2F with linker C4 demonstrated superior performance. Finally, the antitumor activity of IL-2F mRNA was evaluated. The results indicated that U-101-LNP/IL-2F mRNA achieved the strongest antitumor effect, with an inhibition rate of 70.3%. Immunohistochemistry observations revealed significant expressions of IL-2, IFN-γ, and CD8, suggesting an up-regulation of immunomodulation in tumor tissues. This effect could be ascribed to the expression of IL-2F, followed by the cleavage of the linker under the action of MMP-14 in tumor tissue, which sustainably releases IL-2. H&E staining of tissues treated with U-101-LNP/IL-2F mRNA showed no abnormalities. Further evaluations indicated that the U-101-LNP/IL-2F mRNA group maintained proper levels of inflammatory factors without obvious alterations in liver and renal functions. Taken together, the U-101-LNP/IL-2F mRNA formulation demonstrated effective antitumor activity and safety, which suggests potential applicability in clinical immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Yanhao Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Chao Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Jinyu Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Wenliang Xue
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Zihao Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Xinsong Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhu Z, Peng Q, Duan X, Li J. Interleukin-12: Structure, Function, and Its Impact in Colorectal Cancer. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2024; 44:158-169. [PMID: 38498032 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2023.0190] [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: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 12 (IL-12) is a heterodimer consisting of 2 subunits, p35 and p40, with unique associations and interacting functions with its family members. IL-12 is one of the most important cytokines regulating the immune system response and is integral to adaptive immunity. IL-12 has shown marked therapeutic potential in a variety of tumor types. This review therefore summarizes the characteristics of IL-12 and its application in tumor treatment, focusing on its antitumor effects in colorectal cancer (CRC) and potential radiosensitization mechanisms. We aim to provide a current reference for IL-12 and other potential CRC treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Peng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingmei Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People's Republic of. China
| | - Jie Li
- School of Medicine, Southwest Medical University of China, Luzhou, People's Republic of China
- Department of Radiotherapy, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhou F, Huang L, Li S, Yang W, Chen F, Cai Z, Liu X, Xu W, Lehto V, Lächelt U, Huang R, Shi Y, Lammers T, Tao W, Xu ZP, Wagner E, Xu Z, Yu H. From structural design to delivery: mRNA therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20210146. [PMID: 38855617 PMCID: PMC11022630 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20210146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
mRNA therapeutics have emerged as powerful tools for cancer immunotherapy in accordance with their superiority in expressing all sequence-known proteins in vivo. In particular, with a small dosage of delivered mRNA, antigen-presenting cells (APCs) can synthesize mutant neo-antigens and multi-antigens and present epitopes to T lymphocytes to elicit antitumor effects. In addition, expressing receptors like chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), T-cell receptor (TCR), CD134, and immune-modulating factors including cytokines, interferons, and antibodies in specific cells can enhance immunological response against tumors. With the maturation of in vitro transcription (IVT) technology, large-scale and pure mRNA encoding specific proteins can be synthesized quickly. However, the clinical translation of mRNA-based anticancer strategies is restricted by delivering mRNA into target organs or cells and the inadequate endosomal escape efficiency of mRNA. Recently, there have been some advances in mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy, which can be roughly classified as modifications of the mRNA structure and the development of delivery systems, especially the lipid nanoparticle platforms. In this review, the latest strategies for overcoming the limitations of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies and the recent advances in delivering mRNA into specific organs and cells are summarized. Challenges and opportunities for clinical applications of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lujia Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shiqin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Wenfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Fangmin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Zhixiong Cai
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Wujun Xu
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Vesa‐Pekka Lehto
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Rongqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug DeliveryMinistry of Education, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zhi Ping Xu
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering and Institute of Systems and Physical BiologyShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenChina
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for NanoscienceLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haijun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hsia T, Chen Y. RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy: From pre-clinical studies to clinical trials. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 197:114234. [PMID: 38401743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticle-based delivery systems such as RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles (RNA LNPs) have dramatically advanced in function and capacity over the last few decades. RNA LNPs boast of a diverse array of external and core configurations that enhance targeted delivery and prolong circulatory retention, advancing therapeutic outcomes. Particularly within the realm of cancer immunotherapies, RNA LNPs are increasingly gaining prominence. Pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo studies have laid a robust foundation for new and ongoing clinical trials that are actively enrolling patients for RNA LNP cancer immunotherapy. This review explores RNA LNPs, starting from their core composition to their external membrane formulation, set against a backdrop of recent clinical breakthroughs. We further elucidate the LNP delivery avenues, broach the prevailing challenges, and contemplate the future perspectives of RNA LNP-mediated immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffaney Hsia
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yunching Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan; Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Cao Z, Yang X, Yang W, Chen F, Jiang W, Zhan S, Jiang F, Li J, Ye C, Lang L, Zhang S, Feng Z, Lai X, Liu Y, Mao L, Cai H, Teng Y, Xie J. Modulation of Dendritic Cell Function via Nanoparticle-Induced Cytosolic Calcium Changes. ACS NANO 2024; 18:7618-7632. [PMID: 38422984 PMCID: PMC10938921 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Calcium nanoparticles have been investigated for applications, such as drug and gene delivery. Additionally, Ca2+ serves as a crucial second messenger in the activation of immune cells. However, few studies have systematically studied the effects of calcium nanoparticles on the calcium levels and functions within immune cells. In this study, we explore the potential of calcium nanoparticles as a vehicle to deliver calcium into the cytosol of dendritic cells (DCs) and influence their functions. We synthesized calcium hydroxide nanoparticles, coated them with a layer of silica to prevent rapid degradation, and further conjugated them with anti-CD205 antibodies to achieve targeted delivery to DCs. Our results indicate that these nanoparticles can efficiently enter DCs and release calcium ions in a controlled manner. This elevation in cytosolic calcium activates both the NFAT and NF-κB pathways, in turn promoting the expression of costimulatory molecules, antigen-presenting molecules, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In mouse tumor models, the calcium nanoparticles enhanced the antitumor immune response and augmented the efficacy of both radiotherapy and chemotherapy without introducing additional toxicity. Our study introduces a safe nanoparticle immunomodulator with potential widespread applications in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Cao
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Xueyuan Yang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Wei Yang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Fanghui Chen
- Department
of Hematology and Medical Oncology & Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Shuyue Zhan
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Fangchao Jiang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Jianwen Li
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Chenming Ye
- Department
of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Liwei Lang
- Department
of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia 30907, United States
| | - Sirui Zhang
- Institute
of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Zhizi Feng
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Xinning Lai
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Yang Liu
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Leidong Mao
- School
of
Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Houjian Cai
- Department
of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Yong Teng
- Department
of Hematology and Medical Oncology & Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Jin Xie
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Liu H, Du Y, Zhan D, Yu W, Li Y, Wang A, Yin J, Cao H, Fu Y. Oxaliplatin lipidated prodrug synergistically enhances the anti-colorectal cancer effect of IL12 mRNA. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01540-x. [PMID: 38457025 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01540-x] [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] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cancer in the world, with the second highest incidence rate after lung cancer. Oxaliplatin (OXA) is a broad-spectrum anti-tumor agent with significant therapeutic efficacy in colorectal cancer, and as a divalent platinum analog, it is not selective in its distribution in the body and has systemic toxicity with continued use. Interleukin-12 (IL12) is an immunostimulatory cytokine with cytokine monotherapy that has made advances in the fight against cancer, limiting the clinical use of cytokines due to severe toxicity. Here, we introduced a long alkyl chain and N-methyl-2,2-diaminodiethylamine to the ligand of OXA to obtain OXA-LIP, which effectively reduces its toxicity and improves the uptake of the drug by tumor cells. We successfully constructed IL12 mRNA and used LNPs to deliver IL12 mRNA, and in vivo pharmacodynamic studies demonstrated that OXA-LIP combined with IL12 mRNA had better tumor inhibition and higher biosafety. In addition, it was investigated by pharmacokinetic experiments that the OXA-LIP drug could accumulate in nude mice at the tumor site, which prolonged the half-life and enhanced the anti-tumor efficiency of OXA. It is hoped that these results will provide an important reference for the subsequent research and development of OXA-LIP with IL12 mRNA, as well as provide new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of colon cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs, Universities of Shandong, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Yating Du
- School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs, Universities of Shandong, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Desheng Zhan
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Wenjun Yu
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China
| | - Yan Li
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Aiping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs, Universities of Shandong, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Jianpeng Yin
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China.
| | - Haiqiang Cao
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
| | - Yuanlei Fu
- School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs, Universities of Shandong, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China.
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Yantai, 264000, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Paun RA, Jurchuk S, Tabrizian M. A landscape of recent advances in lipid nanoparticles and their translational potential for the treatment of solid tumors. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10601. [PMID: 38435821 PMCID: PMC10905562 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are biocompatible drug delivery systems that have found numerous applications in medicine. Their versatile nature enables the encapsulation and targeting of various types of medically relevant molecular cargo, including oligonucleotides, proteins, and small molecules for the treatment of diseases, such as cancer. Cancers that form solid tumors are particularly relevant for LNP-based therapeutics due to the enhanced permeation and retention effect that allows nanoparticles to accumulate within the tumor tissue. Additionally, LNPs can be formulated for both locoregional and systemic delivery depending on the tumor type and stage. To date, LNPs have been used extensively in the clinic to reduce systemic toxicity and improve outcomes in cancer patients by encapsulating chemotherapeutic drugs. Next-generation lipid nanoparticles are currently being developed to expand their use in gene therapy and immunotherapy, as well as to enable the co-encapsulation of multiple drugs in a single system. Other developments include the design of targeted LNPs to specific cells and tissues, and triggerable release systems to control cargo delivery at the tumor site. This review paper highlights recent developments in LNP drug delivery formulations and focuses on the treatment of solid tumors, while also discussing some of their current translational limitations and potential opportunities in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radu A. Paun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Sarah Jurchuk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Maryam Tabrizian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
- Faculty of Dentistry and Oral Health SciencesMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wu Y, Pu X, Wang X, Xu M. Reprogramming of lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment: a strategy for tumor immunotherapy. Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:35. [PMID: 38302980 PMCID: PMC10832245 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02024-0] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid metabolism in cancer cells has garnered increasing attention in recent decades. Cancer cells thrive in hypoxic conditions, nutrient deficiency, and oxidative stress and cannot be separated from alterations in lipid metabolism. Therefore, cancer cells exhibit increased lipid metabolism, lipid uptake, lipogenesis and storage to adapt to a progressively challenging environment, which contribute to their rapid growth. Lipids aid cancer cell activation. Cancer cells absorb lipids with the help of transporter and translocase proteins to obtain energy. Abnormal levels of a series of lipid synthases contribute to the over-accumulation of lipids in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Lipid reprogramming plays an essential role in the TME. Lipids are closely linked to several immune cells and their phenotypic transformation. The reprogramming of tumor lipid metabolism further promotes immunosuppression, which leads to immune escape. This event significantly affects the progression, treatment, recurrence, and metastasis of cancer. Therefore, the present review describes alterations in the lipid metabolism of immune cells in the TME and examines the connection between lipid metabolism and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jiangsu University Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, 438 Jiefang Road, Jingkou, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, P. R. China
- Digestive Disease Research Institute of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jiangsu University Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, 438 Jiefang Road, Jingkou, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, P. R. China
- Digestive Disease Research Institute of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jiangsu University Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, 438 Jiefang Road, Jingkou, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, P. R. China.
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jiangsu University Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, 438 Jiefang Road, Jingkou, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, P. R. China.
- Digestive Disease Research Institute of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lee SN, Hoskin V, Laumont CM, Snelling S, Lindo L, Bird L, Samarkina V, Thurston C, Fox G, Ivanco S, Mahoney M, Boudreau JE, Nersesian S. BioCanRx Summit for Cancer Immunotherapy 2022 Proceedings. Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 102:1-8. [PMID: 37870124 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2023-0207] [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: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
From 19 to 21 November 2022, BioCanRx held its first post-pandemic in-person Summit for Cancer Immunotherapy in Montreal, Canada. The meeting was well attended by patients, trainees, researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, who came together to discuss the current state and future of biotherapeutics for cancer in Canada and beyond. Three plenaries, three keynote speakers, a lively debate, and panel discussions, together with poster sessions and a social event, made the event memorable and productive. The current state of cellular therapies, cellular engineering, clinical trials, and the role of the cancer microbiome were discussed in plenary session, and the patient voice was welcomed and present throughout the meeting, in large part due to the Learning Institute, a BioCanRx initiative to include patient partners in research. In this meeting review, we highlight the platform presentations, keynote speakers, debate combatants, panellists, and the patient perspective on the annual meeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stacey N Lee
- BioCanRx HQP Summit4CI Working Group, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Victoria Hoskin
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Céline M Laumont
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Deeley Research Centre, BC Cancer, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shannon Snelling
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Lorenzo Lindo
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lou Bird
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Vera Samarkina
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Grace Fox
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Office for Patient Engagement in Research Activities (OPERA), Ottawa Methods Centre, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Ivanco
- BioCanRx HQP Summit4CI Working Group, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Megan Mahoney
- BioCanRx HQP Summit4CI Working Group, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- BioCanRx Learning Institute, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- BioCanRx Scientific Programming Committee, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jeanette E Boudreau
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- BioCanRx Scientific Programming Committee, BioCanRx, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Sarah Nersesian
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Fernandes S, Cassani M, Cavalieri F, Forte G, Caruso F. Emerging Strategies for Immunotherapy of Solid Tumors Using Lipid-Based Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305769. [PMID: 38054651 PMCID: PMC10885677 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The application of lipid-based nanoparticles for COVID-19 vaccines and transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis treatment have highlighted their potential for translation to cancer therapy. However, their use in delivering drugs to solid tumors is limited by ineffective targeting, heterogeneous organ distribution, systemic inflammatory responses, and insufficient drug accumulation at the tumor. Instead, the use of lipid-based nanoparticles to remotely activate immune system responses is an emerging effective strategy. Despite this approach showing potential for treating hematological cancers, its application to treat solid tumors is hampered by the selection of eligible targets, tumor heterogeneity, and ineffective penetration of activated T cells within the tumor. Notwithstanding, the use of lipid-based nanoparticles for immunotherapy is projected to revolutionize cancer therapy, with the ultimate goal of rendering cancer a chronic disease. However, the translational success is likely to depend on the use of predictive tumor models in preclinical studies, simulating the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (e.g., the fibrotic extracellular matrix that impairs therapeutic outcomes) and stimulating tumor progression. This review compiles recent advances in the field of antitumor lipid-based nanoparticles and highlights emerging therapeutic approaches (e.g., mechanotherapy) to modulate tumor stiffness and improve T cell infiltration, and the use of organoids to better guide therapeutic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Fernandes
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Marco Cassani
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Francesca Cavalieri
- School of ScienceRMIT UniversityMelbourneVictoria3000Australia
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ChimicheUniversita di Roma “Tor Vergata”Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1Rome00133Italy
| | - Giancarlo Forte
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & SciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE5 9NUUK
| | - Frank Caruso
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhang H, Yang L, Wang T, Li Z. NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:63-86. [PMID: 37601277 PMCID: PMC10432724 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells display a unique inherent ability to identify and eliminate virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They are particularly powerful for elimination of hematological cancers, and have attracted considerable interests for therapy of solid tumors. However, the treatment of solid tumors with NK cells are less effective, which can be attributed to the very complicated immunosuppressive microenvironment that may lead to the inactivation, insufficient expansion, short life, and the poor tumor infiltration of NK cells. Fortunately, the development of advanced nanotechnology has provided potential solutions to these issues, and could improve the immunotherapy efficacy of NK cells. In this review, we summarize the activation and inhibition mechanisms of NK cells in solid tumors, and the recent advances in NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy boosted by diverse nanomaterials. We also propose the challenges and opportunities for the clinical application of NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Sharma P, Otto M. Multifunctional nanocomposites modulating the tumor microenvironment for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:440-462. [PMID: 37701452 PMCID: PMC10494322 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has gained momentum for treating malignant tumors over the past decade. Checkpoint blockade and chimeric antigen receptor cell therapy (CAR-T) have shown considerable potency against liquid and solid cancers. However, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is highly immunosuppressive and hampers the effect of currently available cancer immunotherapies on overall treatment outcomes. Advancements in the design and engineering of nanomaterials have opened new avenues to modulate the TME. Progress in the current nanocomposite technology can overcome immunosuppression and trigger robust immunotherapeutic responses by integrating synergistic functions of different molecules. We will review recent advancements in nanomedical applications and discuss specifically designed nanocomposites modulating the TME for cancer immunotherapy. In addition, we provide information on the current landscape of clinical-stage nanocomposites for cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Sharma
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, ABC1 Building, 425 N 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - Mario Otto
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, ABC1 Building, 425 N 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD), Phoenix Children's, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Han J, Zhang B, Zheng S, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Mao K. The Progress and Prospects of Immune Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Cancer. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241231892. [PMID: 38433349 PMCID: PMC10913519 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241231892] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune cell therapy as a revolutionary treatment modality, significantly transformed cancer care. It is a specialized form of immunotherapy that utilizes living immune cells as therapeutic reagents for the treatment of cancer. Unlike traditional drugs, cell therapies are considered "living drugs," and these products are currently customized and require advanced manufacturing techniques. Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies have received tremendous attention in the industry regarding the treatment of hematologic malignancies, their effectiveness in treating solid tumors is often restricted, leading to the emergence of alternative immune cell therapies. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell therapy, dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, and DC/CIK cell therapy are designed to use the body's natural defense mechanisms to target and eliminate cancer cells, and usually have fewer side effects or risks. On the other hand, cell therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell, T cell receptor (TCR)-T, chimeric antigen receptor-natural killer (CAR-NK), or CAR-macrophages (CAR-M) typically utilize either autologous stem cells, allogeneic or xenogeneic cells, or genetically modified cells, which require higher levels of manipulation and are considered high risk. These high-risk cell therapies typically hold special characteristics in tumor targeting and signal transduction, triggering new anti-tumor immune responses. Recently, significant advances have been achieved in both basic and clinical researches on anti-tumor mechanisms, cell therapy product designs, and technological innovations. With swift technological integration and a high innovation landscape, key future development directions have emerged. To meet the demands of cell therapy technological advancements in treating cancer, we comprehensively and systematically investigate the technological innovation and clinical progress of immune cell therapies in this study. Based on the therapeutic mechanisms and methodological features of immune cell therapies, we analyzed the main technical advantages and clinical transformation risks associated with these therapies. We also analyzed and forecasted the application prospects, providing references for relevant enterprises with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding their R&D direction selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Han
- Shanghai Information Center for Life Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- Shanghai Information Center for Life Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Senyu Zheng
- Shanghai Information Center for Life Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Natural and Computing Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Shanghai Information Center for Life Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhang
- Shanghai World Trade Organization Affairs Consultation Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaiyun Mao
- Shanghai Information Center for Life Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wang R, Kumar P, Reda M, Wallstrum AG, Crumrine NA, Ngamcherdtrakul W, Yantasee W. Nanotechnology Applications in Breast Cancer Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2308639. [PMID: 38126905 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation cancer treatments are expected not only to target cancer cells but also to simultaneously train immune cells to combat cancer while modulating the immune-suppressive environment of tumors and hosts to ensure a robust and lasting response. Achieving this requires carriers that can codeliver multiple therapeutics to the right cancer and/or immune cells while ensuring patient safety. Nanotechnology holds great potential for addressing these challenges. This article highlights the recent advances in nanoimmunotherapeutic development, with a focus on breast cancer. While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have achieved remarkable success and lead to cures in some cancers, their response rate in breast cancer is low. The poor response rate in solid tumors is often associated with the low infiltration of anti-cancer T cells and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). To enhance anti-cancer T-cell responses, nanoparticles are employed to deliver ICIs, bispecific antibodies, cytokines, and agents that induce immunogenic cancer cell death (ICD). Additionally, nanoparticles are used to manipulate various components of the TME, such as immunosuppressive myeloid cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and fibroblasts to improve T-cell activities. Finally, this article discusses the outlook, challenges, and future directions of nanoimmunotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruijie Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Pramod Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Moataz Reda
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | | | - Noah A Crumrine
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | | | - Wassana Yantasee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, 3303 S Bond Ave, CH13B, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Fan T, Zhang M, Yang J, Zhu Z, Cao W, Dong C. Therapeutic cancer vaccines: advancements, challenges, and prospects. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:450. [PMID: 38086815 PMCID: PMC10716479 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01674-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
With the development and regulatory approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies, cancer immunotherapy has undergone a profound transformation over the past decades. Recently, therapeutic cancer vaccines have shown promise by eliciting de novo T cell responses targeting tumor antigens, including tumor-associated antigens and tumor-specific antigens. The objective was to amplify and diversify the intrinsic repertoire of tumor-specific T cells. However, the complete realization of these capabilities remains an ongoing pursuit. Therefore, we provide an overview of the current landscape of cancer vaccines in this review. The range of antigen selection, antigen delivery systems development the strategic nuances underlying effective antigen presentation have pioneered cancer vaccine design. Furthermore, this review addresses the current status of clinical trials and discusses their strategies, focusing on tumor-specific immunogenicity and anti-tumor efficacy assessment. However, current clinical attempts toward developing cancer vaccines have not yielded breakthrough clinical outcomes due to significant challenges, including tumor immune microenvironment suppression, optimal candidate identification, immune response evaluation, and vaccine manufacturing acceleration. Therefore, the field is poised to overcome hurdles and improve patient outcomes in the future by acknowledging these clinical complexities and persistently striving to surmount inherent constraints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Fan
- Department of Oncology, East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingna Zhang
- Postgraduate Training Base, Shanghai East Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jingxian Yang
- Department of Oncology, East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhounan Zhu
- Department of Oncology, East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanlu Cao
- Department of Oncology, East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Chunyan Dong
- Department of Oncology, East Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Han J, Park JH. Modulation of immune cells with mRNA nanoformulations for cancer immunotherapy. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 84:103014. [PMID: 37866058 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.103014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The global adaptation of mRNA vaccines to protect against the COVID-19 pandemic was a major interdisciplinary milestone, demonstrating the potential of combining mRNA applications with nanotechnology. This innovative strategy holds great promise as an improved therapeutic modality for cancer immunotherapy, as further development could facilitate targeted mRNA delivery to specific immune cells and enable manipulation of effector functions. Toward this, researchers have made substantial efforts to modulate various immune cell types, including lymphoid organ dendritic cells for cancer vaccines, peripheral blood lymphocytes for in situ T-cell therapy, and macrophages in the tumor microenvironment to restore antitumor functions. Here, we highlight recent advances in mRNA nanoformulations for cancer immunotherapy, emphasizing strategies for target cell engagement in different immunological sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junhee Han
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, and KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Ho Park
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, and KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Chen P, Paraiso WKD, Cabral H. Revitalizing Cytokine-Based Cancer Immunotherapy through Advanced Delivery Systems. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300275. [PMID: 37565723 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines can coordinate robust immune responses, holding great promise as therapeutics against infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. In cancer treatment, numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines have displayed promising efficacy in preclinical studies. However, their clinical application is hindered by poor pharmacokinetics, significant toxicity and unsatisfactory anticancer efficacy. Thus, while IFN-α and IL-2 are approved for specific cancer treatments, other cytokines still remain subject of intense investigation. To accelerate the application of cytokines as cancer immunotherapeutics, strategies need to be directed to improve their safety and anticancer performance. In this regard, delivery systems could be used to generate innovative therapies by targeting the cytokines or nucleic acids, such as DNA and mRNA, encoding the cytokines to tumor tissues. This review centers on these innovative delivery strategies for cytokines, summarizing key approaches, such as gene delivery and protein delivery, and critically examining their potential and challenges for clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengwen Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | | | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| |
Collapse
|