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Zhang W, Zeng M, Li Y, Yu L. Leveraging oncovirus-derived antigen against the viral malignancies in adoptive cell therapies. Biomark Res 2024; 12:71. [PMID: 39075601 PMCID: PMC11287861 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00617-6] [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: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapies (ACTs) have revolutionized cancer immunotherapy, prompting exploration into their application against oncoviruses. Oncoviruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) contribute significantly (12-25%) to human malignancies through direct or indirect oncogenic mechanisms. These viruses persistently or latently infect cells, disrupt cellular homeostasis and pathways, challenging current antiviral treatment paradigms. Moreover, viral infections pose additional risks in the setting of long-term cancer therapy and lead to morbidity and mortality. Virally encoded oncoproteins, which are tumor-restricted, immunologically foreign, and even uniformly expressed, represent promising targets for patient-tailored ACTs. This review elucidates the rationale for leveraging viral antigen-specific ACTs in combating viral-associated malignancies. On this basis, ongoing preclinical studies consolidate our understanding of harnessing ACTs against viral malignancies, underscoring their potential to eradicate viruses implicated in cancer progression. Furthermore, we scrutinize the current landscape of clinical trials focusing on virus-specific ACTs and discuss their implications for therapeutic advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, International Cancer Center, Hematology Institution of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical school, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Miao Zeng
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, International Cancer Center, Hematology Institution of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical school, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Yisheng Li
- Shenzhen Haoshi Biotechnology Co., Ltd, No. 155 Hongtian Road, Xinqiao Street, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518125, China
- Haoshi Cell Therapy Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, International Cancer Center, Hematology Institution of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China.
- Haoshi Cell Therapy Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
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2
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Yue B, Gao Y, Hu Y, Zhan M, Wu Y, Lu L. Harnessing CD8 + T cell dynamics in hepatitis B virus-associated liver diseases: Insights, therapies and future directions. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1731. [PMID: 38935536 PMCID: PMC11210506 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1731] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection playsa significant role in the etiology and progression of liver-relatedpathologies, encompassing chronic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventual hepatocellularcarcinoma (HCC). Notably, HBV infection stands as the primary etiologicalfactor driving the development of HCC. Given the significant contribution ofHBV infection to liver diseases, a comprehensive understanding of immunedynamics in the liver microenvironment, spanning chronic HBV infection,fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, is essential. In this review, we focused on thefunctional alterations of CD8+ T cells within the pathogenic livermicroenvironment from HBV infection to HCC. We thoroughly reviewed the roles ofhypoxia, acidic pH, metabolic reprogramming, amino acid deficiency, inhibitory checkpointmolecules, immunosuppressive cytokines, and the gut-liver communication in shapingthe dysfunction of CD8+ T cells in the liver microenvironment. Thesefactors significantly impact the clinical prognosis. Furthermore, we comprehensivelyreviewed CD8+ T cell-based therapy strategies for liver diseases,encompassing HBV infection, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC. Strategies includeimmune checkpoint blockades, metabolic T-cell targeting therapy, therapeuticT-cell vaccination, and adoptive transfer of genetically engineered CD8+ T cells, along with the combined usage of programmed cell death protein-1/programmeddeath ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) inhibitors with mitochondria-targeted antioxidants.Given that targeting CD8+ T cells at various stages of hepatitis Bvirus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV + HCC) shows promise, we reviewedthe ongoing need for research to elucidate the complex interplay between CD8+ T cells and the liver microenvironment in the progression of HBV infection toHCC. We also discussed personalized treatment regimens, combining therapeuticstrategies and harnessing gut microbiota modulation, which holds potential forenhanced clinical benefits. In conclusion, this review delves into the immunedynamics of CD8+ T cells, microenvironment changes, and therapeuticstrategies within the liver during chronic HBV infection, HCC progression, andrelated liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Yue
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Yuxia Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Yi Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology DepartmentSchool of MedicineFaculty of Medical ScienceJinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Yangzhe Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongChina
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Enriquez-Rodriguez L, Attia N, Gallego I, Mashal M, Maldonado I, Puras G, Pedraz JL. Expanding the horizon of transient CAR T therapeutics using virus-free technology. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 72:108350. [PMID: 38537878 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108350] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
The extraordinary success that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies have shown over the years on fighting hematological malignancies is evidenced by the six FDA-approved products present on the market. CAR T treatments have forever changed the way we understand cellular immunotherapies, as current research in the topic is expanding even outside the field of cancer with very promising results. Until now, virus-based strategies have been used for CAR T cell manufacturing. However, this methodology presents relevant limitations that need to be addressed prior to wide spreading this technology to other pathologies and in order to optimize current cancer treatments. Several approaches are being explored to overcome these challenges such as virus-free alternatives that additionally offer the possibility of developing transient CAR expression or in vivo T cell modification. In this review, we aim to spotlight a pivotal juncture in the history of medicine where a significant change in perspective is occurring. We review the current progress made on viral-based CAR T therapies as well as their limitations and we discuss the future outlook of virus-free CAR T strategies to overcome current challenges and achieve affordable immunotherapies for a wide variety of pathologies, including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Enriquez-Rodriguez
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Noha Attia
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Idoia Gallego
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Mohamed Mashal
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Iván Maldonado
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Gustavo Puras
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - José Luis Pedraz
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
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4
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Zhang F, Ju J, Diao H, Song J, Bian Y, Yang B. Innovative pharmacotherapy for hepatic metabolic and chronic inflammatory diseases in China. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38514420 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16342] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver disease constitutes a significant global health concern, particularly in China where it has distinctive characteristics. China grapples with a staggering 300 million cases, predominantly due to hepatitis B and metabolic non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Additionally, hepatocellular carcinoma has become a prevalent which is a lethal type of cancer. Despite the scarcity of innovative treatment options, Chinese hepatologists and researchers have achieved notable breakthroughs in the prevention, diagnosis, management and treatment of liver diseases. Traditional Chinese medicines have found widespread application in the treatment of various liver ailments owing to their commendable pharmacological efficacy and minimal side effects. Furthermore, there is a growing body of research in extracellular vesicles, cell therapy and gene therapy, offering new hope in the fight against liver diseases. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiological characteristics of liver diseases and the diverse array of treatments that Chinese scholars and scientists have pursued in critical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiaming Ju
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hongtao Diao
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinglun Song
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu Bian
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Baofeng Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases, the State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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5
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Yang L, He J, Liu J, Xie T, Tang Q. Application of chimeric antigen receptor therapy beyond oncology: A bibliometric and visualized analysis. Curr Res Transl Med 2024; 72:103442. [PMID: 38452444 DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2024.103442] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chimeric antigen receptor therapy beyond oncology has gained increasing attention. While a substantial number of publications have emerged in recent years, there has been a paucity of conducted bibliometric studies. Our objective is to systematically summarize and visually analyze the literature in the field of chimeric antigen receptors therapy beyond oncology and explore hotspots in this field. METHODS Web of Science Core Collection was selected as the data source, and the data was retrieved on December 23, 2022, according to the search strategy. CiteSpace 6.1.R6 and Vosviewer 1.6.18 were used to analyze publications and explore research hotspots and directions. RESULTS A total of 338 publications written by 1832 authors from 516 institutions in 42 countries/regions were selected for the analysis. The number of publications is steadily increasing annually. The United States emerged as the primary contributor, and University of Pennsylvania was the leading institution. Frontiers in Immunology boasted the highest number of published papers. Kitchen SG, Riley JL, and Scott DW were the most productive researchers in this field. The keyword cluster analysis identified HIV, autoimmune diseases, transplant related diseases and COVID-19 as the primary focus areas within the realm of chimeric antigen receptor therapy beyond oncology. CONCLUSION The advancement of chimeric antigen receptor therapy beyond oncology has witnessed rapid progress in recent years. We have explored the hotspots and research directions in this field. It is hoped that this study could provide references and directions for future clinical researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxin Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Medical Research Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jinshen He
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Medical Research Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Tianjian Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Medical Research Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qi Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Medical Research Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Morte-Romea E, Pesini C, Pellejero-Sagastizábal G, Letona-Giménez S, Martínez-Lostao L, Aranda SL, Toyas C, Redrado S, Dolader-Ballesteros E, Arias M, Galvez EM, Sanz-Pamplona R, Pardo J, Paño-Pardo JR, Ramírez-Labrada A. CAR Immunotherapy for the treatment of infectious diseases: a systematic review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1289303. [PMID: 38352878 PMCID: PMC10861799 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1289303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy treatments aim to modulate the host's immune response to either mitigate it in inflammatory/autoimmune disease or enhance it against infection or cancer. Among different immunotherapies reaching clinical application during the last years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) immunotherapy has emerged as an effective treatment for cancer where different CAR T cells have already been approved. Yet their use against infectious diseases is an area still relatively poorly explored, albeit with tremendous potential for research and clinical application. Infectious diseases represent a global health challenge, with the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance underscoring the need for alternative therapeutic approaches. This review aims to systematically evaluate the current applications of CAR immunotherapy in infectious diseases and discuss its potential for future applications. Notably, CAR cell therapies, initially developed for cancer treatment, are gaining recognition as potential remedies for infectious diseases. The review sheds light on significant progress in CAR T cell therapy directed at viral and opportunistic fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Morte-Romea
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cecilia Pesini
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Immunotherapy, Cytotoxicity, Inflammation and Cancer, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Galadriel Pellejero-Sagastizábal
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Santiago Letona-Giménez
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Luis Martínez-Lostao
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatry, Radiology and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Nanoscience Institute of Aragon (INA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Silvia Loscos Aranda
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carla Toyas
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Redrado
- Instituto de Carboquímica-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicadas (ICB-CSIC), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Elena Dolader-Ballesteros
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatry, Radiology and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maykel Arias
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Carboquímica-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicadas (ICB-CSIC), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva M. Galvez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Carboquímica-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicadas (ICB-CSIC), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rebeca Sanz-Pamplona
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Pardo
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatry, Radiology and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Ramón Paño-Pardo
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ariel Ramírez-Labrada
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Unidad de Nanotoxicología e Inmunotoxicología Experimental (UNATI), Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
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Festag J, Festag MM, Asen T, Wettengel JM, Mück-Häusl MA, Abdulhaqq S, Stahl-Hennig C, Sacha JB, Burwitz BJ, Protzer U, Wisskirchen K. Vector-Mediated Delivery of Human Major Histocompatibility Complex-I into Hepatocytes Enables Investigation of T Cell Receptor-Redirected Hepatitis B Virus-Specific T Cells in Mice, and in Macaque Cell Cultures. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:1204-1218. [PMID: 37747811 PMCID: PMC10825313 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.035] [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: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive T cell therapy using natural T cell receptor (TCR) redirection is a promising approach to fight solid cancers and viral infections in liver and other organs. However, clinical efficacy of such TCR+-T cells has been limited so far. One reason is that syngeneic preclinical models to evaluate safety and efficacy of TCR+-T cells are missing. We, therefore, developed an efficient viral vector strategy mediating expression of human major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I in hepatocytes, which allows evaluation of TCR-T cell therapies targeting diseased liver cells. We designed adeno-associated virus (AAV) and adenoviral vectors encoding either the human-mouse chimeric HLA-A*02-like molecule, or fully human HLA-A*02 and human β2 microglobulin (hβ2m). Upon transduction of murine hepatocytes, the HLA-A*02 construct proved superior in terms of expression levels, presentation of endogenously processed peptides and activation of murine TCR+-T cells grafted with HLA-A*02-restricted, hepatitis B virus (HBV)-specific TCRs. In vivo, these T cells elicited effector function, controlled HBV replication, and reduced HBV viral load and antigen expression in livers of those mice that had received AAV-HBV and AAV-HLA-A*02. We then demonstrated the broad utility of this approach by grafting macaque T cells with the HBV-specific TCRs and enabling them to recognize HBV-infected primary macaque hepatocytes expressing HLA-A*02 upon adenoviral transduction. In conclusion, AAV and adenovirus vectors are suitable for delivery of HLA-A*02 and hβ2m into mouse and macaque hepatocytes. When recognizing their cognate antigen in HLA-A*02-transduced mouse livers or on isolated macaque hepatocytes, HLA-A*02-restricted, HBV-specific TCR+-T cells become activated and exert antiviral effector functions. This approach is applicable to any MHC restriction and target disease, paving the way for safety and efficacy studies of human TCR-based therapies in physiologically relevant preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Festag
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Marvin M. Festag
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Theresa Asen
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jochen M. Wettengel
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Shaheed Abdulhaqq
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Jonah B. Sacha
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
- Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Benjamin J. Burwitz
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
- Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Ulrike Protzer
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, Munich, Germany
| | - Karin Wisskirchen
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Virology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, Munich, Germany
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8
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Wang L, Zeng X, Wang Z, Fang L, Liu J. Recent advances in understanding T cell activation and exhaustion during HBV infection. Virol Sin 2023; 38:851-859. [PMID: 37866815 PMCID: PMC10786656 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.10.007] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health concern globally, and T cell responses are widely believed to play a pivotal role in mediating HBV clearance. Accordingly, research on the characteristics of HBV-specific T cell responses, from activation to exhaustion, has advanced rapidly. Here, we summarize recent developments in characterizing T cell immunity in HBV infection by reviewing basic and clinical research published in the last five years. We provide a comprehensive summary of the mechanisms that induce effective anti-HBV T cell immunity, as well as the latest developments in understanding T cell dysfunction in chronic HBV infection. Furthermore, we briefly discuss current novel treatment strategies aimed at restoring anti-HBV T cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zeng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zida Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ling Fang
- Central Sterile Supply Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Joint International Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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9
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Guo G, He W, Zhou Z, Diao Y, Sui J, Li W. PreS1- targeting chimeric antigen receptor T cells diminish HBV infection in liver humanized FRG mice. Virology 2023; 586:23-34. [PMID: 37478771 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.06.015] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Current therapies control but rarely achieve a cure for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Restoration of the HBV-specific immunity by cell-based therapy represents a potential approach for a cure. In this study, we generated HBV specific CAR T cells based on an antibody 2H5-A14 targeting a preS1 region of the HBV large envelope protein. We show that the A14 CAR T cell is capable of killing hepatocytes infected by HBV with high specificity; adoptive transfer of A14 CAR T cells to HBV infected humanized FRG mice resulted in reductions of all serum and intrahepatic virological markers to levels below the detection limit. A14 CAR T cells treatment increased the levels of human IFN-γ, GM-CSF, and IL-8/CXCL-8 in the mice. These results show that A14 CAR T cells may be further developed for curative therapy against HBV infection by eliminating HBV-infected hepatocytes and inducing production of pro-inflammatory and antiviral cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilan Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui He
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongmin Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Diao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Sui
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Wenhui Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 102206, China.
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10
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Sun MY, Li W, Chen W. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell and regulatory T cell therapy in non-oncology diseases: A narrative review of studies from 2017 to 2023. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2251839. [PMID: 37814513 PMCID: PMC10566417 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2251839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the remarkable success of chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy in treating certain tumors has led to numerous studies exploring its potential application to treat non-oncology diseases. This review discusses the progress and evolution of CAR-T cell therapies for treating non-oncology diseases over the past 5 years. Additionally, we summarize the advantages and disadvantages of CAR-T cell therapy in treating non-oncological diseases and identify any difficulties that should be overcome. After conducting an in-depth analysis of the most recent studies on CAR-T technology, we discuss the key elements of CAR-T therapy, such as developing an effective CAR design for non-oncological diseases, controlling the rate and duration of response, and implementing safety measures to reduce toxicity. These studies provide new insights into different delivery strategies, the discovery of new target molecules, and improvements in the safety of CAR-T therapy for non-oncological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yao Sun
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences - Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wanyang Li
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences - Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences - Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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11
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Zheng Z, Li S, Liu M, Chen C, Zhang L, Zhou D. Fine-Tuning through Generations: Advances in Structure and Production of CAR-T Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3476. [PMID: 37444586 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a promising form of immunotherapy that has seen significant advancements in the past few decades. It involves genetically modifying T cells to target cancer cells expressing specific antigens, providing a novel approach to treating various types of cancer. However, the initial success of first-generation CAR-T cells was limited due to inadequate proliferation and undesirable outcomes. Nonetheless, significant progress has been made in CAR-T cell engineering, leading to the development of the latest fifth-generation CAR-T cells that can target multiple antigens and overcome individual limitations. Despite these advancements, some shortcomings prevent the widespread use of CAR-T therapy, including life-threatening toxicities, T-cell exhaustion, and inadequate infiltration for solid tumors. Researchers have made considerable efforts to address these issues by developing new strategies for improving CAR-T cell function and reducing toxicities. This review provides an overview of the path of CAR-T cell development and highlights some of the prominent advances in its structure and manufacturing process, which include the strategies to improve antigen recognition, enhance T-cell activation and persistence, and overcome immune escape. Finally, the review briefly covers other immune cells for cancer therapy and ends with the discussion on the broad prospects of CAR-T in the treatment of various diseases, not just hematological tumors, and the challenges that need to be addressed for the widespread clinical application of CAR-T cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibo Zheng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Siyuan Li
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Mohan Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Chuyan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Daobin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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12
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Emerging Therapies for Chronic Hepatitis B and the Potential for a Functional Cure. Drugs 2023; 83:367-388. [PMID: 36906663 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01843-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, an estimated 296 million people are living with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, with a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Current therapy with pegylated interferon (Peg-IFN) and indefinite or finite therapy with nucleoside/nucleotide analogues (Nucs) are effective in HBV suppression, hepatitis resolution, and prevention of disease progression. However, few achieve hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss (functional cure), and relapse often occurs after the end of therapy (EOT) because these agents have no direct effect on durable template: covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and integrated HBV DNA. Hepatitis B surface antigen loss rate increases slightly by adding or switching to Peg-IFN in Nuc-treated patients and this loss rate greatly increases up to 39% in 5 years with finite Nuc therapy with currently available Nuc(s). For this, great effort has been made to develop novel direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and immunomodulators. Among the DAAs, entry inhibitors and capsid assembly modulators have little effect on reducing HBsAg levels; small interfering RNA, antisense oligonucleotides, and nucleic acid polymers in combination with Peg-IFN and Nuc may reduce HBsAg levels significantly, even a rate of HBsAg loss sustained for > 24 weeks after EOT up to 40%. Novel immunomodulators, including T-cell receptor agonists, check-point inhibitors, therapeutic vaccines, and monoclonal antibodies may restore HBV-specific T-cell response but not sustained HBsAg loss. The safety issues and the durability of HBsAg loss warrant further investigation. Combining agents of different classes has the potential to enhance HBsAg loss. Compounds directly targeting cccDNA would be more effective but are still in the early stage of development. More effort is required to achieve this goal.
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13
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Velasco-de Andrés M, Muñoz-Sánchez G, Carrillo-Serradell L, Gutiérrez-Hernández MDM, Català C, Isamat M, Lozano F. Chimeric antigen receptor-based therapies beyond cancer. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250184. [PMID: 36649259 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) therapies have gained renewed interest in the field of immunotherapy following the advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology. This immunological breakthrough requires immune cell engineering with an artificial surface protein receptor for antigen-specific recognition coupled to an intracellular protein domain for cell activating functions. CAR-based ACT has successfully solved some hematological malignancies, and it is expected that other tumors may soon benefit from this approach. However, the potential of CAR technology is such that other immune-mediated disorders are beginning to profit from it. This review will focus on CAR-based ACT therapeutic areas other than oncology such as infection, allergy, autoimmunity, transplantation, and fibrotic repair. Herein, we discuss the results and limitations of preclinical and clinical studies in that regard.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guillermo Muñoz-Sánchez
- Servei d'Immunologia, Centre de Diagnòstic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Cristina Català
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marcos Isamat
- Sepsia Therapeutics S.L., L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Francisco Lozano
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Servei d'Immunologia, Centre de Diagnòstic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Yardeni D, Chang KM, Ghany MG. Current Best Practice in Hepatitis B Management and Understanding Long-term Prospects for Cure. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:42-60.e6. [PMID: 36243037 PMCID: PMC9772068 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. Despite an effective vaccine, the prevalence of chronic infection remains high. Current therapy is effective at achieving on-treatment, but not off-treatment, viral suppression. Loss of hepatitis B surface antigen, the best surrogate marker of off-treatment viral suppression, is associated with improved clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, this end point is rarely achieved with current therapy because of their lack of effect on covalently closed circular DNA, the template of viral transcription and genome replication. Major advancements in our understanding of HBV virology along with better understanding of immunopathogenesis have led to the development of a multitude of novel therapeutic approaches with the prospect of achieving functional cure (hepatitis B surface antigen loss) and perhaps complete cure (clearance of covalently closed circular DNA and integrated HBV DNA). This review will cover current best practice for managing chronic HBV infection and emerging novel therapies for HBV infection and their prospect for cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Yardeni
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kyong-Mi Chang
- Medical Research, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marc G Ghany
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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15
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Jin X, Bi J. Prospects for NK-based immunotherapy of chronic HBV infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1084109. [PMID: 36591230 PMCID: PMC9797727 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1084109] [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: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective and long-term treatment is required for controlling chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. Natural killer (NK) cells are antiviral innate lymphocytes and represent an essential arm of current immunotherapy. In chronic HBV (CHB), NK cells display altered changes in phenotypes and functions, but preserve antiviral activity, especially for cytolytic activity. On the other hand, NK cells might also cause liver injury in the disease. NK -based immunotherapy, including adoptive NK cell therapy and NK -based checkpoint inhibition, could potentially exploit the antiviral aspect of NK cells for controlling CHB infection while preventing liver tissue damage. Here, we review recent progress in NK cell biology under the context of CHB infection, and discuss potential NK -based immunotherapy strategies for the disease.
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16
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Zheng JR, Wang ZL, Feng B. Hepatitis B functional cure and immune response. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1075916. [PMID: 36466821 PMCID: PMC9714500 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1075916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic virus, which damage to hepatocytes is not direct, but through the immune system. HBV specific CD4+ T cells can induce HBV specific B cells and CD8+ T cells. HBV specific B cells produce antibodies to control HBV infection, while HBV specific CD8+ T cells destroy infected hepatocytes. One of the reasons for the chronicity of HBV infection is that it cannot effectively activate adoptive immunity and the function of virus specific immune cells is exhausted. Among them, virus antigens (including HBV surface antigen, e antigen, core antigen, etc.) can inhibit the function of immune cells and induce immune tolerance. Long term nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) treatment and inactive HBsAg carriers with low HBsAg level may "wake up" immune cells with abnormal function due to the decrease of viral antigen level in blood and liver, and the specific immune function of HBV will recover to a certain extent, thus becoming the "dominant population" for functional cure. In turn, the functional cure will further promote the recovery of HBV specific immune function, which is also the theoretical basis for complete cure of hepatitis B. In the future, the complete cure of chronic HBV infection must be the combination of three drugs: inhibiting virus replication, reducing surface antigen levels and specific immune regulation, among which specific immunotherapy is indispensable. Here we review the relationship, mechanism and clinical significance between the cure of hepatitis B and immune system.
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17
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Debelec-Butuner B, Quitt O, Schreiber S, Momburg F, Wisskirchen K, Protzer U. Activation of distinct antiviral T-cell immunity: A comparison of bi- and trispecific T-cell engager antibodies with a chimeric antigen receptor targeting HBV envelope proteins. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1029214. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1029214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of an effective prophylactic vaccine, 820,000 people die annually of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related liver disease according to WHO. Since current antiviral therapies do not provide a curative treatment for the 296 million HBV carriers around the globe, novel strategies to cure HBV are urgently needed. A promising approach is the redirection of T cells towards HBV-infected hepatocytes employing chimeric antigen receptors or T-cell engager antibodies. We recently described the effective redirection of T cells employing a second-generation chimeric antigen receptor directed against the envelope protein of hepatitis B virus on the surface of infected cells (S-CAR) as well as bispecific antibodies that engage CD3 or CD28 on T cells employing the identical HBV envelope protein (HBVenv) binder. In this study, we added a trispecific antibody comprising all three moieties to the tool-box. Cytotoxic and non-cytolytic antiviral activities of these bi- and trispecific T-cell engager antibodies were assessed in co-cultures of human PBMC with HBV-positive hepatoma cells, and compared to that of S-CAR-grafted T cells. Activation of T cells via the S-CAR or by either a combination of the CD3- and CD28-targeting bispecific antibodies or the trispecific antibody allowed for specific elimination of HBV-positive target cells. While S-CAR-grafted effector T cells displayed faster killing kinetics, combinatory treatment with the bispecific antibodies or single treatment with the trispecific antibody was associated with a more pronounced cytokine release. Clearance of viral antigens and elimination of the HBV persistence form, the covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA, through cytolytic as well as cytokine-mediated activity was observed in all three settings with the combination of bispecific antibodies showing the strongest non-cytolytic, cytokine-mediated antiviral effect. Taken together, we demonstrate that bi- and trispecific T-cell engager antibodies can serve as a potent, off-the-shelf alternative to S-CAR-grafted T cells to cure HBV.
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18
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Dogan M, Kozhaya L, Placek L, Karabacak F, Yigit M, Unutmaz D. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 infection through CAR-T-like bispecific T cell engagers incorporating ACE2. Clin Transl Immunology 2022; 11:e1421. [PMID: 36285327 PMCID: PMC9586837 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Despite advances in antibody treatments and vaccines, COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection remains a major health problem resulting in excessive morbidity and mortality and the emergence of new variants has reduced the effectiveness of current vaccines. Methods Here, as a proof-of-concept, we engineered primary CD8 T cells to express SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-specific CARs, using the extracellular region of ACE2 and demonstrated their highly specific and potent cytotoxicity towards Spike-expressing target cells. To improve on this concept as a potential therapeutic, we developed a bispecific T cell engager combining ACE2 with an anti-CD3 scFv (ACE2-Bite) to target infected cells and the virus. Results As in CAR-T cell approach, ACE2-Bite endowed cytotoxic cells to selectively kill Spike-expressing targets. Furthermore, ACE2-Bite neutralized the pseudoviruses of SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 wild-type, and variants including Delta and Omicron, as a decoy protein. Remarkably, ACE2-Bite molecule showed a higher binding and neutralization affinity to Delta and Omicron variants compared to SARS-CoV-2 wild-type Spike proteins. Conclusion In conclusion, these results suggest the potential of this approach as a variant-proof, therapeutic strategy for future SARS-CoV-2 variants, employing both humoral and cellular arms of the adaptive immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikail Dogan
- Jackson Laboratory for Genomic MedicineFarmingtonCTUSA
| | - Lina Kozhaya
- Jackson Laboratory for Genomic MedicineFarmingtonCTUSA
| | | | | | - Mesut Yigit
- Jackson Laboratory for Genomic MedicineFarmingtonCTUSA,Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University School of MedicineIstanbulTurkey
| | - Derya Unutmaz
- Jackson Laboratory for Genomic MedicineFarmingtonCTUSA,Department of ImmunologyUniversity of Connecticut School of MedicineFarmingtonCTUSA
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19
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Alternative CAR Therapies: Recent Approaches in Engineering Chimeric Antigen Receptor Immune Cells to Combat Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071493. [PMID: 35884798 PMCID: PMC9313317 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
For nearly three decades, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have captivated the interest of researchers seeking to find novel immunotherapies to treat cancer. CARs were first designed to work with T cells, and the first CAR T cell therapy was approved to treat B cell lymphoma in 2017. Recent advancements in CAR technology have led to the development of modified CARs, including multi-specific CARs and logic gated CARs. Other immune cell types, including natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, have also been engineered to express CARs to treat cancer. Additionally, CAR technology has been adapted in novel approaches to treating autoimmune disease and other conditions and diseases. In this article, we review these recent advancements in alternative CAR therapies and design, as well as their mechanisms of action, challenges in application, and potential future directions.
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20
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Chikileva I, Shubina I, Burtseva AM, Kirgizov K, Stepanyan N, Varfolomeeva S, Kiselevskiy M. Antiviral Cell Products against COVID-19: Learning Lessons from Previous Research in Anti-Infective Cell-Based Agents. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040868. [PMID: 35453618 PMCID: PMC9027720 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a real challenge for the protective immunity. Some people do not respond to vaccination by acquiring an appropriate immunological memory. The risk groups for this particular infection such as the elderly and people with compromised immunity (cancer patients, pregnant women, etc.) have the most serious problems in developing an adequate immune response. Therefore, dendritic cell (DC) vaccines that are loaded ex vivo with SARS-CoV-2 antigens in the optimal conditions are promising for immunization. Lymphocyte effector cells with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR lymphocytes) are currently used mainly as anti-tumor treatment. Before 2020, few studies on the antiviral CAR lymphocytes were reported, but since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 the number of such studies has increased. The basis for CARs against SARS-CoV-2 were several virus-specific neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. We propose a similar, but basically novel and more universal approach. The extracellular domain of the immunoglobulin G receptors will be used as the CAR receptor domain. The specificity of the CAR will be determined by the antibodies, which it has bound. Therefore, such CAR lymphocytes are highly universal and have functional activity against any infectious agents that have protective antibodies binding to a foreign surface antigen on the infected cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Chikileva
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Irina Shubina
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Anzhelika-Mariia Burtseva
- College of New Materials and Nanotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, 119049 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Kirill Kirgizov
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Nara Stepanyan
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Svetlana Varfolomeeva
- Research Institute of Children Oncology and Hematology, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (K.K.); (N.S.); (S.V.)
| | - Mikhail Kiselevskiy
- Research Institute of Experimental Therapy and Diagnostics of Tumor, NN Blokhin National Medical Center of Oncology, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (M.K.)
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21
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Yardeni D, Ghany MG. Review article: hepatitis B-current and emerging therapies. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:805-819. [PMID: 35224760 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects an estimated 290 million individuals worldwide and is responsible for approximately 900 000 deaths annually, mostly from complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although current treatment is effective at preventing complications of chronic hepatitis B, it is not curative, and often must be administered long term. There is a need for safe, effective, finite duration curative therapy. AIM Our aim was to provide a concise, up to date review of all currently available and emerging treatment options for chronic hepatitis B. METHODS We conducted a search of PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, major meeting abstracts and pharmaceutical websites for publications and communications on current and emerging therapies for HBV. RESULTS Currently approved treatment options for chronic hepatitis B include peginterferon alpha-2a and nucleos(t)ide analogues. Both options do not offer a 'complete cure' (clearance of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and integrated HBV DNA) and rarely achieve a 'functional cure' (hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss). An improved understanding of the viral lifecycle, immunopathogenesis and recent advances in drug delivery technologies have led to many novel therapeutic approaches that are currently being evaluated in clinical trials including targeting of viral entry, cccDNA, viral transcription, core protein, and release of HBsAg and HBV polymerase. Additionally, novel immunological approaches that include targeting the innate and adaptive immune system and therapeutic vaccination are being pursued. CONCLUSION The breadth and scope of novel therapies in development hold promise for regimen/s that will achieve functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Yardeni
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marc G Ghany
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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22
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Zhao HJ, Hu YF, Han QJ, Zhang J. Innate and adaptive immune escape mechanisms of hepatitis B virus. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:881-896. [PMID: 35317051 PMCID: PMC8908287 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i9.881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an international health problem with extremely high mortality and morbidity rates. Although current clinical chronic hepatitis B (CHB) treatment strategies can partly inhibit and eliminate HBV, viral breakthrough may result due to non-adherence to treatment, the emergence of viral resistance, and a long treatment cycle. Persistent CHB infection arises as a consequence of complex interactions between the virus and the host innate and adaptive immune systems. Therefore, understanding the immune escape mechanisms involved in persistent HBV infection is important for designing novel CHB treatment strategies to clear HBV and achieve long-lasting immune control. This review details the immunological and biological characteristics and escape mechanisms of HBV and the novel immune-based therapies that are currently used for treating HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Jun Zhao
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yi-Fei Hu
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qiu-Ju Han
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
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Aghajanian H, Rurik JG, Epstein JA. CAR-based therapies: opportunities for immuno-medicine beyond cancer. Nat Metab 2022; 4:163-169. [PMID: 35228742 PMCID: PMC9947862 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00537-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
One of the most exciting new therapies for cancer involves the use of autologous T cells that are engineered to recognize and destroy cancerous cells. Patients with previously untreatable B cell leukaemias and lymphomas have been cured, and efforts are underway to extend this success to other tumours. Here, we discuss recent studies and emerging research aimed to extend this approach beyond oncology in areas such as cardiometabolic disorders, autoimmunity, fibrosis and senescence. We also summarize new technologies that may help to reduce the cost and increase access to related forms of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haig Aghajanian
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Penn Cardiovascular Institute, and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Joel G. Rurik
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Penn Cardiovascular Institute, and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jonathan A. Epstein
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Penn Cardiovascular Institute, and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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24
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Mohammadi M, Akhoundi M, Malih S, Mohammadi A, Sheykhhasan M. Therapeutic roles of CAR T cells in infectious diseases: Clinical lessons learnt from cancer. Rev Med Virol 2022; 32:e2325. [PMID: 35037732 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has made improvements due to the advances in chimaeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell development, offering a promising treatment option for patients who have failed to respond to traditional treatments. In light of the successful use of adoptive CAR T cell therapy for cancer, researchers have been inspired to develop CARs for the treatment of other diseases beyond cancers such as viral infectious diseases. Nonetheless, various obstacles limit the efficacy of CAR T cell therapies and prevent their widespread usage. Severe toxicities, poor in vivo persistence, antigen escape, and heterogeneity, as well as off-target effect, are key challenges that must all be addressed to broaden the application of CAR T cells to a wider spectrum of diseases. The key advances in CAR T cell treatment for cancer and viral infections are reviewed in this article. We will also discuss revolutionary CAR T cell products developed to improve and enhance the therapeutic advantages of these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Mohammadi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Akhoundi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Malih
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mohsen Sheykhhasan
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.,Department of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, The Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom, Iran
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25
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Hasanpourghadi M, Novikov M, Newman D, Xiang Z, Zhou XY, Magowan C, Ertl HCJ. Hepatitis B virus polymerase-specific T cell epitopes shift in a mouse model of chronic infection. Virol J 2021; 18:242. [PMID: 34876153 PMCID: PMC8650432 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01712-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (CHB) is a significant public health problem that could benefit from treatment with immunomodulators. Here we describe a set of therapeutic HBV vaccines that target the internal viral proteins. METHODS Vaccines are delivered by chimpanzee adenovirus vectors (AdC) of serotype 6 (AdC6) and 7 (AdC7) used in prime only or prime-boost regimens. The HBV antigens are fused into an early T cell checkpoint inhibitor, herpes simplex virus (HSV) glycoprotein D (gD), which enhances and broadens vaccine-induced cluster of differentiation (CD8)+ T cell responses. RESULTS Our results show that the vaccines are immunogenic in mice. They induce potent CD8+ T cell responses that recognize multiple epitopes. CD8+ T cell responses increase after a boost, although the breadth remains similar. In mice, which carry high sustained loads of HBV particles due to a hepatic infection with an adeno-associated virus (AAV)8 vector expressing the 1.3HBV genome, CD8+ T cell responses to the vaccines are attenuated with a marked shift in the CD8+ T cells' epitope recognition profile. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that in different stains of mice including those that carry a human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen HBV vaccines adjuvanted with a checkpoint inhibitor induce potent and broad HBV-specific CD8+ T cell responses and lower but still detectable CD4+ T cell responses. CD8+ T cell responses are reduced and their epitope specificity changes in mice that are chronically exposed to HBV antigens. Implications for the design of therapeutic HBV vaccines are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mikhail Novikov
- Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Dakota Newman
- Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - ZhiQuan Xiang
- Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Xiang Yang Zhou
- Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Colin Magowan
- Virion Therapeutics LLC, 7 Creek Bend Ct, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
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26
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Szöőr Á, Szöllősi J, Vereb G. From antibodies to living drugs: Quo vadis cancer immunotherapy? Biol Futur 2021; 72:85-99. [PMID: 34554498 DOI: 10.1007/s42977-021-00072-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In the last few decades, monoclonal antibodies targeting various receptors and ligands have shown significant advance in cancer therapy. However, still a great percentage of patients experiences tumor relapse despite persistent antigen expression. Immune cell therapy with adoptively transferred modified T cells that express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) is an engaging option to improve disease outcome. Designer T cells have been applied with remarkable success in the treatment for acute B cell leukemias, yielding unprecedented antitumor activity and significantly improved overall survival. Relying on the success of CAR T cells in leukemias, solid tumors are now emerging potential targets; however, their complexity represents a significant challenge. In preclinical models, CAR T cells recognized and efficiently killed the wide spectrum of tumor xenografts; however, in human clinical trials, limited antitumor efficacy and serious side effects, including cytokine release syndrome, have emerged as potential limitations. The next decade will be an exciting time to further optimize this novel cellular therapeutics to improve effector functions and, at the same time, keep adverse events in check. Moreover, we need to establish whether gene-modified T cells which are yet exclusively used for cancer patients could also be successful in the treatment for other diseases. Here, we provide a concise overview about the transition from monoclonal antibodies to the generation of chimeric antigen receptor T cells. We summarize lessons learned from preclinical models, including our own HER2-positive tumor models, as well as from clinical trials worldwide. We also discuss the challenges we are facing today and outline future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Árpád Szöőr
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - János Szöllősi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
- MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - György Vereb
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary.
- MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., 4032, Debrecen, Hungary.
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Zam W, Assaad A. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CARs) in cancer treatment. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 15:532-546. [PMID: 34382510 DOI: 10.2174/1874467214666210811150255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation were the main cancer treatment approaches for several years but due to their limited effectiveness, there was a constant search for new therapeutic approaches. Cancer immunotherapy that utilizes and enhances the normal capacity of the patient's immune system was used to fight against cancer. Genetically engineered T-cells that express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) showed remarkable anti-tumor activity against hematologic malignancies and is now being investigated in a variety of solid tumors. The use of this therapy in the last few years has been successful, achieving a great success in improving the quality of life and prolonging the survival time of patients with a reduction in remission rates. However, many challenges still need to be resolved in order for this technology to gain widespread adoption. <P> Objective: This review summarizes various experimental approaches towards the use of CAR T-cells in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. <P> Conclusion: Finally, we address the challenges posed by CAR T-cells and discuss strategies for improving the performance of these T cells in fighting cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wissam Zam
- Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Wadi International University, Homs. Syrian Arab Republic
| | - Amany Assaad
- 2. Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy,Tartous University, Tartous. Syrian Arab Republic
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28
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B infection is rarely curative, thus research in HBV cure strategies is a priority. Drug development and testing has been hampered by the lack of robust cell culture systems and small animal models. This review summarizes existing models for HBV cure research and focuses on recent developments since 2017 until today. RECENT FINDINGS The field has progressed in the development of cell culture and animal models to study HBV. Although early cell culture systems relied on transfection of HBV genomes in hepatoma cell lines, novel models expressing the entry receptor for HBV are susceptible to infection. Improved culture conditions for primary human hepatocytes, the primary target of HBV, have enabled the screening and validation of novel antivirals. Mouse models grafted with partially humanized livers are suitable for testing viral entry inhibitors or direct acting antivirals, and can be reconstituted with human immune cells to analyze immunotherapies. Other immunocompetent models include mice transduced with HBV genomes or woodchucks infected with their native hepatitis virus. SUMMARY Model systems for HBV research have helped lay the groundwork for the development and optimization of antiviral and immune-based therapeutic approaches that are now moving to clinical trials.
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Khoshdel-Rad N, Zahmatkesh E, Bikmulina P, Peshkova M, Kosheleva N, Bezrukov EA, Sukhanov RB, Solovieva A, Shpichka A, Timashev P, Vosough M. Modeling Hepatotropic Viral Infections: Cells vs. Animals. Cells 2021; 10:1726. [PMID: 34359899 PMCID: PMC8305759 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of an appropriate platform for a better understanding of the molecular basis of hepatitis viruses and the absence of reliable models to identify novel therapeutic agents for a targeted treatment are the two major obstacles for launching efficient clinical protocols in different types of viral hepatitis. Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, and the development of model systems for efficient viral replication is necessary for basic and applied studies. Viral hepatitis is a major health issue and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite the extensive efforts that have been made on fundamental and translational research, traditional models are not effective in representing this viral infection in a laboratory. In this review, we discuss in vitro cell-based models and in vivo animal models, with their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, the most important findings that have been retrieved from each model are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Khoshdel-Rad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran; (N.K.-R.); (E.Z.)
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran
| | - Ensieh Zahmatkesh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran; (N.K.-R.); (E.Z.)
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran
| | - Polina Bikmulina
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (P.B.); (M.P.); (A.S.)
- World-Class Research Center “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Maria Peshkova
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (P.B.); (M.P.); (A.S.)
- World-Class Research Center “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Nastasia Kosheleva
- World-Class Research Center “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- FSBSI ‘Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeny A. Bezrukov
- Department of Urology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Roman B. Sukhanov
- Department of Urology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Anna Solovieva
- Department of Polymers and Composites, N.N. Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Anastasia Shpichka
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (P.B.); (M.P.); (A.S.)
- World-Class Research Center “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (P.B.); (M.P.); (A.S.)
- World-Class Research Center “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Department of Polymers and Composites, N.N. Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran; (N.K.-R.); (E.Z.)
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 1665659911, Iran
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Damiris K, Abbad H, Pyrsopoulos N. Cellular based treatment modalities for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Clin Oncol 2021; 12:290-308. [PMID: 34131562 PMCID: PMC8173328 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i5.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignancy of the liver and is unfortunately associated with an overall poor prognosis and high mortality. Early and intermediate stages of HCC allow for treatment with surgical resection, ablation and even liver transplantation, however disease progression warrants conventional systemic therapy. For years treatment options were limited to molecular-targeting medications, of which sorafenib remains the standard of care. The recent development and success of immune checkpoint inhibitors has proven to be a breakthrough in the treatment of HCC, but there is an urgent need for the development of further novel therapeutic treatments that prolong overall survival and minimize recurrence. Current investigation is focused on adoptive cell therapy including chimeric antigen receptor-T cells (CAR-T cells), T cell receptor (TCR) engineered T cells, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and tumor infiltrating lymphocyte cells, which have shown remarkable success in the treatment of hematological and solid tumor malignancies. In this review we briefly introduce readers to the currently approved systemic treatment options and present clinical and experimental evidence of HCC immunotherapeutic treatments that will hopefully one day allow for revolutionary change in the treatment modalities used for unresectable HCC. We also provide an up-to-date compilation of ongoing clinical trials investigating CAR-T cells, TCR engineered T cells, cancer vaccines and oncolytic viruses, while discussing strategies that can help overcome commonly faced challenges when utilizing cellular based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Damiris
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Hamza Abbad
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
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31
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Maepa MB, Bloom K, Ely A, Arbuthnot P. Hepatitis B virus: promising drug targets and therapeutic implications. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:451-466. [PMID: 33843412 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1915990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Current therapy for infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) rarely clears the virus, and viremia commonly resurges following treatment withdrawal. To prevent serious complications of the infection, research has been aimed at identifying new viral and host targets that can be exploited to inactivate HBV replication.Areas covered: This paper reviews the use of these new molecular targets to advance anti-HBV therapy. Emphasis is on appraising data from pre-clinical and early clinical studies described in journal articles published during the past 10 years and available from PubMed.Expert opinion: The wide range of viral and host factors that can be targeted to disable HBV is impressive and improved insight into HBV molecular biology continues to provide the basis for new drug design. In addition to candidate therapies that have direct or indirect actions on HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), compounds that inhibit HBsAg secretion, viral entry, destabilize viral RNA and effect enhanced immune responses to HBV show promise. Preclinical and clinical evaluation of drug candidates, as well as investigating use of treatment combinations, are encouraging. The field is poised at an interesting stage and indications are that reliably achieving functional cure from HBV infection is a tangible goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohube Betty Maepa
- School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kristie Bloom
- School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abdullah Ely
- School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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32
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Li X, Liu X, Wang W. IL-35: A Novel Immunomodulator in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Liver Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:614847. [PMID: 33777929 PMCID: PMC7990793 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.614847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a risk factor for liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however, little is known about the mechanisms involved in the progression of HBV-related diseases. It has been well acknowledged that host immune response was closely related to the clinical outcomes of patients with HBV infection. As the factors closely related to the immunomodulatory process, cytokines are crucial in the cell-cell communication and the host responses to HBV infection. Recently, a newly discovered cytokine, designated as interleukin-35 (IL-35), has been proved to be essential for the progression of chronic HBV infection, the development of cirrhosis, the transformation of cirrhosis to HCC, and the metastasis of HCC. Specifically, it showed various biological activities such as inhibiting the HBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) proliferation and cytotoxicity, deactivating the immature effector T-cells (Teffs), as well as delaying the proliferation of dendritic cells. It regulated the immune responses by acting as a “brake” on the activation of Teffs, which subsequently played important roles in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases and malignancies. In this review, we focused on the most recent data on the relationship between IL-35 and chronic HBV infection, LC and HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefen Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weilin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Vyas AK, Lslam M, Garg G, Singh AK, Trehanpati N. Humoral Immune Responses and Hepatitis B Infection. Dig Dis 2021; 39:516-525. [PMID: 33429386 DOI: 10.1159/000514274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronicity or seroclearance of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigens is determined by the host immune responses. Current approaches to treat HBV patients are based on inhibition of replication using different antivirals (nucleoside or nucleotide analogs) as monotherapy, or along with immune modulators as combination therapy is being used worldwide for reducing the viral load. Understanding the role of immune cellular therapies with currently available treatments for persistent viral-mediated responses in HBV patients is unexplored. However, the generation of antibodies against a surface (HBs) and envelop (HBe) antigen of hepatitis B remains an issue for future studies and needs to be explored. SUMMARY Humoral immunity, specifically T follicular helper (TFh) cells, may serve as a target for therapy for HBsAg seroconversion. In this review, we have been engrossed in the importance and role of the humoral immune responses in CHBV infection and vertical transmission. Key Message: TFh cells have been suggested as the potential target of immunotherapy which lead to seroconversion of HBe and HBs antigens of HBV. HBsAg seroconversion and eradication of covalently closed circular DNA are the main challenges for existing and forthcoming therapies in HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Kumar Vyas
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Mojahidul Lslam
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver & Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Garima Garg
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Anirudh K Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Nirupma Trehanpati
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver & Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Zmievskaya E, Valiullina A, Ganeeva I, Petukhov A, Rizvanov A, Bulatov E. Application of CAR-T Cell Therapy beyond Oncology: Autoimmune Diseases and Viral Infections. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9010059. [PMID: 33435454 PMCID: PMC7827151 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) has long been at the forefront of the battle with cancer that began last century with the therapeutic application of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) against melanoma. The development of novel ACT approaches led researchers and clinicians to highly efficient technologies based on genetically engineered T lymphocytes, with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells as the most prominent example. CARs consist of an extracellular domain that represents the single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of a monoclonal antibody (mAb) responsible for target recognition and the intracellular domain, which was built from up to several signaling motifs that mediated T cell activation. The number of potential targets amenable for CAR-T cell therapy is expanding rapidly, which means that the tremendous success of this approach in oncology could be further translated to treating other diseases. In this review, we outlined modern trends and recent developments in CAR-T cell therapy from an unusual point of view by focusing on diseases beyond cancer, such as autoimmune disorders and viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Zmievskaya
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (E.Z.); (A.V.); (I.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Aygul Valiullina
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (E.Z.); (A.V.); (I.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Irina Ganeeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (E.Z.); (A.V.); (I.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Alexey Petukhov
- Almazov National Medical Research Center, Institute of Hematology, 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Albert Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (E.Z.); (A.V.); (I.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Emil Bulatov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (E.Z.); (A.V.); (I.G.); (A.R.)
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
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35
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Barili V, Boni C, Rossi M, Vecchi A, Zecca A, Penna A, Missale G, Ferrari C, Fisicaro P. Metabolic regulation of the HBV-specific T cell function. Antiviral Res 2020; 185:104989. [PMID: 33248194 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2020.104989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Chronically HBV infected subjects are more than 260 million worldwide; cirrhosis and liver cancer represent possible outcomes which affect around 700,000 patients per year. Both innate and adaptive immune responses are necessary for viral control and both have been shown to be defective in chronic patients. Metabolic remodeling is an essential process in T cell biology, particularly for T cell activation, differentiation and survival. Cellular metabolism relies on the conversion of nutrients into energy to support intracellular processes, and to generate fundamental intermediate components for cell proliferation and growth. Adaptive immune responses are the central mechanisms for the resolution of primary human infections leading to the activation of pathogen-specific B and T cell functions. In chronic HBV infection the anti-viral immune response fails to contain the virus and leads to persistent hepatic tissue damage which may finally result in liver cirrhosis and cancer. This T cell failure is associated with metabolic alterations suggesting that control of nutrient uptake and intracellular utilization as well as correct regulation of intracellular metabolic pathways are strategic for T cell differentiation during persistent chronic infections. This review will discuss some of the main features of the T cell metabolic processes which are relevant to the generation of an efficient antiviral response, with specific focus on their clinical relevance in chronic HBV infection in the perspective of possible strategies to correct deregulated metabolic pathways underlying T cell dysfunction of chronic HBV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Barili
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carolina Boni
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marzia Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchi
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zecca
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Amalia Penna
- Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Gabriele Missale
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferrari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Paola Fisicaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Viral Immunopathology, Unit of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
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Mazzi MT, Hajdu KL, Ribeiro PR, Bonamino MH. CAR-T cells leave the comfort zone: current and future applications beyond cancer. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2020; 1:ltaa006. [PMID: 36284896 PMCID: PMC9585679 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy represents a breakthrough in the immunotherapy field and has achieved great success following its approval in 2017 for the treatment of B cell malignancies. While CAR-T cells are mostly applied as anti-tumor therapy in the present, their initial concept was aimed at a more general purpose of targeting membrane antigens, thus translating in many potential applications. Since then, several studies have assessed the use of CAR-T cells toward non-malignant pathologies such as autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases and, more recently, cardiac fibrosis, and cellular senescence. In this review, we present the main findings and implications of CAR-based therapies for non-malignant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Torres Mazzi
- Immunology and Tumor Biology Program - Research Coordination, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Karina Lôbo Hajdu
- Immunology and Tumor Biology Program - Research Coordination, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Priscila Rafaela Ribeiro
- Immunology and Tumor Biology Program - Research Coordination, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Martín Hernán Bonamino
- Immunology and Tumor Biology Program - Research Coordination, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Vice - Presidency of Research and Biological Collections (VPPCB), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kruse RL, Legras X, Barzi M. Cre/LoxP-HBV plasmids generating recombinant covalently closed circular DNA genome upon transfection. Virus Res 2020; 292:198224. [PMID: 33166564 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2020.198224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
New therapies against hepatitis B virus (HBV) require the elimination of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), the episomal HBV genome. HBV plasmids containing an overlength 1.3-mer genome and bacterial backbone (pHBV1.3) are used in many different models, but do not replicate the unique features of cccDNA. Since the stable cccDNA pool is a barrier to HBV eradication in patients, we developed a recombinant circular HBV genome (rcccDNA) to mimic the cccDNA using Cre/LoxP technology. We validated four LoxP insertion sites into the HBV genome using hydrodynamic tail vein injection into murine liver, demonstrating high levels of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV DNA expression with rcccDNA formation. HBsAg expression from rcccDNA was >30,000 ng/mL over 78 days, while HBsAg-expression from pHBV1.3 plasmid DNA declined from 2753 ng/mL to 131 ng/mL over that time in immunodeficient mice (P < 0.001), reflective of plasmid DNA silencing. We then cloned Cre-recombinase in cis on the LoxP-HBV plasmids, achieving plasmid stability in bacteria with intron insertion into Cre and demonstrating rcccDNA formation after transfection in vitro and in vivo. These cis-Cre/LoxP-HBV plasmids were then used to create HBx-mutant and GFP reporter plasmids to further probe cccDNA biology and antiviral strategies against cccDNA. Overall, we believe these auto-generating rcccDNA plasmids will be of great value to model cccDNA for testing new therapies against HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Kruse
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Xavier Legras
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Mercedes Barzi
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Fergusson JR, Wallace Z, Connolly MM, Woon AP, Suckling RJ, Hine DW, Barber C, Bunjobpol W, Choi B, Crespillo S, Dembek M, Dieckmann N, Donoso J, Godinho LF, Grant T, Howe D, McCully ML, Perot C, Sarkar A, Seifert FU, Singh PK, Stegmann KA, Turner B, Verma A, Walker A, Leonard S, Maini MK, Wiederhold K, Dorrell L, Simmons R, Knox A. Immune-Mobilizing Monoclonal T Cell Receptors Mediate Specific and Rapid Elimination of Hepatitis B-Infected Cells. Hepatology 2020; 72:1528-1540. [PMID: 32770836 PMCID: PMC7702151 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Therapies for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are urgently needed because of viral integration, persistence of viral antigen expression, inadequate HBV-specific immune responses, and treatment regimens that require lifelong adherence to suppress the virus. Immune mobilizing monoclonal T Cell receptors against virus (ImmTAV) molecules represent a therapeutic strategy combining an affinity-enhanced T Cell receptor with an anti-CD3 T Cell-activating moiety. This bispecific fusion protein redirects T cells to specifically lyse infected cells expressing the target virus-derived peptides presented by human leukocyte antigen (HLA). APPROACH AND RESULTS ImmTAV molecules specific for HLA-A*02:01-restricted epitopes from HBV envelope, polymerase, and core antigens were engineered. The ability of ImmTAV-Env to activate and redirect polyclonal T cells toward cells containing integrated HBV and cells infected with HBV was assessed using cytokine secretion assays and imaging-based killing assays. Elimination of infected cells was further quantified using a modified fluorescent hybridization of viral RNA assay. Here, we demonstrate that picomolar concentrations of ImmTAV-Env can redirect T cells from healthy and HBV-infected donors toward hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells containing integrated HBV DNA resulting in cytokine release, which could be suppressed by the addition of a corticosteroid in vitro. Importantly, ImmTAV-Env redirection of T cells induced cytolysis of antigen-positive HCC cells and cells infected with HBV in vitro, causing a reduction of hepatitis B e antigen and specific loss of cells expressing viral RNA. CONCLUSIONS The ImmTAV platform has the potential to enable the elimination of infected cells by redirecting endogenous non-HBV-specific T cells, bypassing exhausted HBV-specific T cells. This represents a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B, with our lead candidate now entering trials.
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MESH Headings
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/genetics
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- CD3 Complex/antagonists & inhibitors
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Epitopes/immunology
- HLA-A2 Antigen/immunology
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigens/immunology
- Hepatitis B virus/immunology
- Hepatitis B virus/isolation & purification
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/drug therapy
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/virology
- Hepatocytes
- Humans
- Immunoconjugates/genetics
- Immunoconjugates/immunology
- Immunoconjugates/pharmacology
- Immunoconjugates/therapeutic use
- Lymphocyte Activation/drug effects
- Primary Cell Culture
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/therapeutic use
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/genetics
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/immunology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/pharmacology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/therapeutic use
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dawn Howe
- Immunocore LtdAbingdonUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kerstin A. Stegmann
- Division of Infection and ImmunityInstitute of Immunity and TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and ImmunityInstitute of Immunity and TransplantationUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Lucy Dorrell
- Immunocore LtdAbingdonUnited Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
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Alexopoulou A, Vasilieva L, Karayiannis P. New Approaches to the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9103187. [PMID: 33019573 PMCID: PMC7601587 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The currently recommended treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection achieves only viral suppression whilst on therapy, but rarely hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss. The ultimate therapeutic endpoint is the combination of HBsAg loss, inhibition of new hepatocyte infection, elimination of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) pool, and restoration of immune function in order to achieve virus control. This review concentrates on new antiviral drugs that target different stages of the HBV life cycle (direct acting antivirals) and others that enhance both innate and adaptive immunity against HBV (immunotherapy). Drugs that block HBV hepatocyte entry, compounds that silence or deplete the cccDNA pool, others that affect core assembly, agents that degrade RNase-H, interfering RNA molecules, and nucleic acid polymers are likely interventions in the viral life cycle. In the immunotherapy category, molecules that activate the innate immune response such as Toll-like-receptors, Retinoic acid Inducible Gene-1 (RIG-1) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists or checkpoint inhibitors, and modulation of the adaptive immunity by therapeutic vaccines, vector-based vaccines, or adoptive transfer of genetically-engineered T cells aim towards the restoration of T cell function. Future therapeutic trends would likely be a combination of one or more of the aforementioned drugs that target the viral life cycle and at least one immunomodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Alexopoulou
- Department of Medicine, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2132-088-178; Fax: +30-2107-706-871
| | - Larisa Vasilieva
- Department of Medicine, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Peter Karayiannis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, University of Nicosia, Engomi, CY-1700 Nicosia, Cyprus;
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Zhang L, Ding J, Li HY, Wang ZH, Wu J. Immunotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, where are we? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188441. [PMID: 33007432 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A couple of molecular-targeting medications, such as Lenvatinib, are available for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in addition to Sorafenib in an advanced stage. Approval for the use of immune check-point inhibitors, such as Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab has shifted the paradigm of current HCC treatment, and the monotherapy or in combination with Lenvatinib or Sorafenib has significantly extended overall survival or progression-free survival in a large portion of patients. A combination of programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) inhibitor Atezolizumab with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, Bevacizumab, has recently achieved promising outcome in unresectable HCC patients. Other immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has achieved an evolutional success in hematologic malignancies, and has extended its use in deadly solid tumors, such as HCC. Although there exist various barriers, novel approaches are developed to move potential adoptive T cell therapy strategies, including cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), T cell receptor (TCR) T cells, CAR-T cells, to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jia Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Hui-Yan Li
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhong-Hua Wang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200032, China.
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41
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Rybicka M, Bielawski KP. Recent Advances in Understanding, Diagnosing, and Treating Hepatitis B Virus Infection. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E1416. [PMID: 32942584 PMCID: PMC7565763 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8091416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects 292 million people worldwide and is associated with a broad range of clinical manifestations including cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite the availability of an effective vaccine HBV still causes nearly 900,000 deaths every year. Current treatment options keep HBV under control, but they do not offer a cure as they cannot completely clear HBV from infected hepatocytes. The recent development of reliable cell culture systems allowed for a better understanding of the host and viral mechanisms affecting HBV replication and persistence. Recent advances into the understanding of HBV biology, new potential diagnostic markers of hepatitis B infection, as well as novel antivirals targeting different steps in the HBV replication cycle are summarized in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda Rybicka
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland;
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection is a major global health burden. Currently, a curative therapy does not exist; thus, there is an urgent need for new therapeutical options. Viral elimination in the natural course of infection results from a robust and multispecific T and B cell response that, however, is dysfunctional in chronically infected patients. Therefore, immunomodulatory therapies that strengthen the immune responses are an obvious approach trying to control HBV infection. In this review, we summarize the rationale and current options of immunological cure of chronic HBV infection.
Recent Findings
Recently, among others, drugs that stimulate the innate immune system or overcome CD8+ T cell exhaustion by checkpoint blockade, and transfer of HBV-specific engineered CD8+ T cells emerged as promising approaches.
Summary
HBV-specific immunity is responsible for viral control, but also for immunopathogenesis. Thus, the development of immunomodulatory therapies is a difficult process on a thin line between viral control and excessive immunopathology. Some promising agents are under investigation. Nevertheless, further research is indispensable in order to optimally orchestrate immunostimulation.
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43
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Zhang PF, Xie D, Li Q. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy beyond cancer: current practice and future prospects. Immunotherapy 2020; 12:1021-1034. [PMID: 32727249 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2020-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy with chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells has achieved remarkable efficacy in the treatment of hematological malignancies, which has inspired researchers to expand the application of CAR-T-cell therapy to other medical conditions. Here, we review the current understanding and development of CAR-T-cell therapy for infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and allotransplantation. The limitations and challenges of CAR-T-cell therapy in the treatment of these diseases and potential solutions to overcome these shortcomings are also discussed. With the development of novel designs of CARs and preclinical/clinical investigations, CAR-T-cell therapy is expected to be a potential cure option in a wide array of disease settings in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China, 610041
| | - Dan Xie
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China, 610041.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects & Related Diseases of Women & Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China, 610041
| | - Qiu Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China, 610041
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44
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Tham CYL, Kah J, Tan AT, Volz T, Chia A, Giersch K, Ladiges Y, Loglio A, Borghi M, Sureau C, Lampertico P, Lütgehetmann M, Dandri M, Bertoletti A. Hepatitis Delta Virus Acts as an Immunogenic Adjuvant in Hepatitis B Virus-Infected Hepatocytes. CELL REPORTS MEDICINE 2020; 1:100060. [PMID: 33205065 PMCID: PMC7659593 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2020.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) requires hepatitis B virus (HBV) to complete its infection cycle and causes severe hepatitis, with limited therapeutic options. To determine the prospect of T cell therapy in HBV/HDV co-infection, we study the impact of HDV on viral antigen processing and presentation. Using in vitro models of HBV/HDV co-infection, we demonstrate that HDV boosts HBV epitope presentation, both in HBV/HDV co-infected and neighboring mono-HBV-infected cells through the upregulation of the antigen processing pathway mediated by IFN-β/λ. Liver biopsies of HBV/HDV patients confirm this upregulation. We then validate in vitro and in a HBV/HDV preclinical mouse model that HDV infection increases the anti-HBV efficacy of T cells with engineered T cell receptors. Thus, by unveiling the effect of HDV on HBV antigen presentation, we provide a framework to better understand HBV/HDV immune pathology, and advocate the utilization of engineered HBV-specific T cells as a potential treatment for HBV/HDV co-infection. HDV infection affects viral antigen processing and presentation HDV boosts HBV epitope presentation on HBV/HDV and mono-HBV-infected hepatocytes Anti-HBV efficacy of T cells engineered with T cell receptors is enhanced by HDV
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Y L Tham
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency of Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Janine Kah
- Medical Department, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anthony T Tan
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tassilo Volz
- Medical Department, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Adeline Chia
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Katja Giersch
- Medical Department, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ladiges
- Medical Department, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alessandro Loglio
- Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico - Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - CRC "A.M. and A. Migliavacca" Center for Liver Disease, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Borghi
- Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico - Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - CRC "A.M. and A. Migliavacca" Center for Liver Disease, Milan, Italy
| | - Camille Sureau
- Institut National de la Transfusion Sanguine, INSERM U1134, CNRS, Paris
| | - Pietro Lampertico
- Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico - Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - CRC "A.M. and A. Migliavacca" Center for Liver Disease, Milan, Italy.,University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Microbiology, Virology, and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- Medical Department, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Partner Site, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonio Bertoletti
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency of Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
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Bertoletti A, Tan AT. HBV as a target for CAR or TCR-T cell therapy. Curr Opin Immunol 2020; 66:35-41. [PMID: 32361634 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Engineering HBV-specific T cells utilizing a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) or a classical T cell receptor (TCR) provides a well characterized, sizeable and functionally intact population of HBV-specific T cells with identical in vitro functionality to the T cells isolated in patients who resolved acute HBV infection. In this review we present evidences of the virological and immunological features of chronic HBV infection, alone or in combination with Hepatitis Delta that might make it amenable for CAR/TCR-T cells therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Bertoletti
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Singapore Immunology Network (SigN), Agency of Science Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore.
| | - Anthony Tanoto Tan
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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46
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Meng Z, Chen Y, Lu M. Advances in Targeting the Innate and Adaptive Immune Systems to Cure Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3127. [PMID: 32117201 PMCID: PMC7018702 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
“Functional cure” is being pursued as the ultimate endpoint of antiviral treatment in chronic hepatitis B (CHB), which is characterized by loss of HBsAg whether or not anti-HBs antibodies are present. “Functional cure” can be achieved in <10% of CHB patients with currently available therapeutic agents. The dysfunction of specific immune responses to hepatitis B virus (HBV) is considered the major cause of persistent HBV infection. Thus, modulating the host immune system to strengthen specific cellular immune reactions might help eliminate HBV. Strategies are needed to restore/enhance innate immunity and induce HBV-specific adaptive immune responses in a coordinated way. Immune and resident cells express pattern recognition receptors like TLRs and RIG I/MDA5, which play important roles in the induction of innate immunity through sensing of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and bridging to adaptive immunity for pathogen-specific immune control. TLR/RIG I agonists activate innate immune responses and suppress HBV replication in vitro and in vivo, and are being investigated in clinical trials. On the other hand, HBV-specific immune responses could be induced by therapeutic vaccines, including protein (HBsAg/preS and HBcAg), DNA, and viral vector-based vaccines. More than 50 clinical trials have been performed to assess therapeutic vaccines in CHB treatment, some of which display potential effects. Most recently, using genetic editing technology to generate CAR-T or TCR-T, HBV-specific T cells have been produced to efficiently clear HBV. This review summarizes the progress in basic and clinical research investigating immunomodulatory strategies for curing chronic HBV infection, and critically discusses the rather disappointing results of current clinical trials and future strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongji Meng
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Mengji Lu
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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Richardson NH, Luttrell JB, Bryant JS, Chamberlain D, Khawaja S, Neeli I, Radic M. Tuning the performance of CAR T cell immunotherapies. BMC Biotechnol 2019; 19:84. [PMID: 31783836 PMCID: PMC6884819 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-019-0576-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simultaneous advances in gene editing, T cell engineering and biotechnology currently provide an opportunity for rapid progress in medicine. The approval of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission have generated substantial momentum for these first-in-class therapies to be used in patients with B cell malignancies. MAIN BODY Considerable efforts focus on improved outcomes and reduced side effects of the newly approved therapies. Using innovative strategies, researchers aim to extend CAR T cell use to tackle difficulties inherent in solid tumors. Efforts are underway to broaden the applications of CAR T cells, and the strategy has been successful in chronic viral infections and preclinical models of autoimmunity. Research is in progress to generate "off-the-shelf" CAR T cells, an advance, which would greatly increase patient availability and reduce treatment cost. CONCLUSIONS In this thematic review, we highlight advances that may help develop genetically engineered cells into a new category of medical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah H Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Jordan B Luttrell
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Jonathan S Bryant
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Damian Chamberlain
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Saleem Khawaja
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Indira Neeli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Marko Radic
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 858 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
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Seif M, Einsele H, Löffler J. CAR T Cells Beyond Cancer: Hope for Immunomodulatory Therapy of Infectious Diseases. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2711. [PMID: 31824500 PMCID: PMC6881243 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases are still a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the progress in drug development, the occurrence of microbial resistance is still a significant concern. Alternative therapeutic strategies are required for non-responding or relapsing patients. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has revolutionized cancer immunotherapy, providing a potential therapeutic option for patients who are unresponsive to standard treatments. Recently two CAR T cell therapies, Yescarta® (Kite Pharma/Gilead) and Kymriah® (Novartis) were approved by the FDA for the treatments of certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia, respectively. The success of adoptive CAR T cell therapy for cancer has inspired researchers to develop CARs for the treatment of infectious diseases. Here, we review the main achievements in CAR T cell therapy targeting viral infections, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Hepatitis C Virus, Hepatitis B Virus, Human Cytomegalovirus, and opportunistic fungal infections such as invasive aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jürgen Löffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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HBV Immune-Therapy: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112754. [PMID: 31195619 PMCID: PMC6600394 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection represents a worldwide public health concern with approximately 250 million people chronically infected and at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUC) are the most widely used therapies for HBV infection, but they often require long-lasting administration to avoid the risk of HBV reactivation at withdrawal. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel treatments to shorten the duration of NUC therapy by accelerating virus control, and to complement the effect of available anti-viral therapies. In chronic HBV infection, virus-specific T cells are functionally defective, and this exhaustion state is a key determinant of virus persistence. Reconstitution of an efficient anti-viral T cell response may thus represent a rational strategy to treat chronic HBV patients. In this perspective, the enhancement of adaptive immune responses by a checkpoint inhibitor blockade, specific T cell vaccines, lymphocyte metabolism targeting, and autologous T cell engineering, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and TCR-redirected T cells, constitutes a promising immune modulatory approach for a therapeutic restoration of protective immunity. The advances of the emerging immune-based therapies in the setting of the HBV research field will be outlined.
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Kostyusheva A, Kostyushev D, Brezgin S, Volchkova E, Chulanov V. Clinical Implications of Hepatitis B Virus RNA and Covalently Closed Circular DNA in Monitoring Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Today with a Gaze into the Future: The Field Is Unprepared for a Sterilizing Cure. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E483. [PMID: 30301171 PMCID: PMC6210151 DOI: 10.3390/genes9100483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has long remained a critical global health issue. Covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is a persistent form of the HBV genome that maintains HBV chronicity. Decades of extensive research resulted in the two therapeutic options currently available: nucleot(s)ide analogs and interferon (IFN) therapy. A plethora of reliable markers to monitor HBV patients has been established, including the recently discovered encapsidated pregenomic RNA in serum, which can be used to determine treatment end-points and to predict the susceptibility of patients to IFN. Additionally, HBV RNA splice variants and cccDNA and its epigenetic modifications are associated with the clinical course and risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver fibrosis. However, new antivirals, including CRISPR/Cas9, APOBEC-mediated degradation of cccDNA, and T-cell therapies aim at completely eliminating HBV, and it is clear that the diagnostic arsenal for defining the long-awaited sterilizing cure is missing. In this review, we discuss the currently available tools for detecting and measuring HBV RNAs and cccDNA, as well as the state-of-the-art in clinical implications of these markers, and debate needs and goals within the context of the sterilizing cure that is soon to come.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sergey Brezgin
- Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, Moscow, 111123, Russia.
- National Research Centre, Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 115478, Russia.
| | - Elena Volchkova
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 119146, Russia.
| | - Vladimir Chulanov
- Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, Moscow, 111123, Russia.
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 119146, Russia.
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