1
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Liu J, Wu M, Yang Y, Wang Z, He S, Tian X, Wang H. γδ T cells and the PD-1/PD-L1 axis: a love-hate relationship in the tumor microenvironment. J Transl Med 2024; 22:553. [PMID: 38858763 PMCID: PMC11163710 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05327-z] [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: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Gamma delta (γδ) T cells demonstrate strong cytotoxicity against diverse cancer cell types in an MHC-independent manner, rendering them promising contenders for cancer therapy. Although amplification and adoptive transfer of γδ T cells are being evaluated in the clinic, their therapeutic efficacy remains unsatisfactory, primarily due to the influence of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, the utilization of targeted therapeutic antibodies against inhibitory immune checkpoint (ICP) molecules is a viable approach to counteract the immunosuppressive consequences of the TME. Notably, PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors are considered primary treatment options for diverse malignancies, with the objective of preserving the response of αβ T cells. However, γδ T cells also infiltrate various human cancers and are important participants in cancer immunity, thereby influencing patient prognosis. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend the reciprocal impact of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis on γδ T cells. This understanding can serve as a therapeutic foundation for improving γδ T cells adoptive transfer therapy and may offer a novel avenue for future combined immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shan He
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xun Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academician Expert Workstation, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430014, Hubei, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Werner W, Kuzminskaya M, Lurje I, Tacke F, Hammerich L. Overcoming Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Liver Cancer with Combination Therapy: Stronger Together? Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:159-179. [PMID: 38806159 PMCID: PMC11245330 DOI: 10.1055/a-2334-8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, represented mainly by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is one of the most common and deadliest tumors worldwide. While surgical resection or liver transplantation are the best option in early disease stages, these tumors often present in advanced stages and systemic treatment is required to improve survival time. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has had a positive impact especially on the treatment of advanced cancers, thereby establishing immunotherapy as part of first-line treatment in HCC and CCA. Nevertheless, low response rates reflect on the usually cold or immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize mechanisms of resistance leading to tumor immune escape with a special focus on the composition of tumor microenvironment in both HCC and CCA, also reflecting on recent important developments in ICI combination therapy. Furthermore, we discuss how combination of ICIs with established primary liver cancer treatments (e.g. multikinase inhibitors and chemotherapy) as well as more complex combinations with state-of-the-art therapeutic concepts may reshape the tumor microenvironment, leading to higher response rates and long-lasting antitumor immunity for primary liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Werner
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzminskaya
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Yin KL, Chu KJ, Li M, Duan YX, Yu YX, Kang MQ, Fu D, Liao R. Immune Regulatory Networks and Therapy of γδ T Cells in Liver Cancer: Recent Trends and Advancements. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 12:287-297. [PMID: 38426194 PMCID: PMC10899867 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2023.00355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The roles of γδ T cells in liver cancer, especially in the potential function of immunotherapy due to their direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells and secretion of important cytokines and chemokines, have aroused research interest. This review briefly describes the basic characteristics of γδ T cells, focusing on their diverse effects on liver cancer. In particular, different subtypes of γδ T cells have diverse or even opposite effects on liver cancer. We provide a detailed description of the immune regulatory network of γδ T cells in liver cancer from two aspects: immune components and nonimmune components. The interactions between various components in this immune regulatory network are dynamic and pluralistic, ultimately determining the biological effects of γδ T cells in liver cancer. We also integrate the current knowledge of γδ T-cell immunotherapy for liver cancer treatment, emphasizing the potential of these cells in liver cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Li Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kai-Jian Chu
- Biliary Surgical Department I, the Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Xin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-Xi Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mei-Qing Kang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Da Fu
- General Surgery, Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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4
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Fan B, Fan B, Sun N, Zou H, Gu X. A radiomics model to predict γδ T-cell abundance and overall survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23529. [PMID: 38441524 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301353rr] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
γδ T cells are becoming increasingly popular because of their attractive potential for antitumor immunotherapy. However, the role and assessment of γδ T cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are not well understood. We aimed to explore the prognostic value of γδ T cell and predict its abundance using a radiomics model. Computer tomography images with corresponding gene expression data and clinicopathological data were obtained from online databases. After outlining the volumes of interest manually, the radiomic features were screened using maximum melevance minimum redundancy and recursive feature elimination algorithms. A radiomics model was developed to predict γδ T-cell abundance using gradient boosting machine. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used for the survival analysis. In this study, we confirmed that γδ T-cell abundance was an independent predictor of favorable overall survival (OS) in patients with HNSCC. Moreover, a radiomics model was built to predict the γδ T-cell abundance level (the areas under the operating characteristic curves of 0.847 and 0.798 in the training and validation sets, respectively). The calibration and decision curves analysis demonstrated the fitness of the model. The high radiomic score was an independent protective factor for OS. Our results indicated that γδ T-cell abundance was a promising prognostic predictor in HNSCC, and the radiomics model could discriminate its abundance levels and predict OS. The noninvasive radiomics model provided a potentially powerful prediction tool to aid clinical judgment and antitumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binna Fan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of Nursing, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Binting Fan
- Department of Nursing, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Na Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Huawei Zou
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiao Gu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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5
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Wang H, Tsung A, Mishra L, Huang H. Regulatory T cell: a double-edged sword from metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis to hepatocellular carcinoma. EBioMedicine 2024; 101:105031. [PMID: 38401419 PMCID: PMC10904199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105031] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is becoming a leading cause of end-stage liver disease globally. Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) represents a progressive inflammatory manifestation of MASLD. MASH underlies a versatile and dynamic inflammatory microenvironment, accompanied by aberrant metabolism and ongoing liver regeneration, establishing itself as a significant risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The mechanisms underlying the escape and survival of malignant cells within the extensive inflammatory microenvironment of MASH remain elusive. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and preventing excessive immune responses in the liver. Paradoxically, Tregs have been implicated in inhibiting tumour-promoting inflammation and facilitating the evasion of cancer cells. Recent studies have unveiled distinct behaviours of Tregs at different stages of MASLD, suggesting a dual role in the pathogenesis. In this review, we explore the fate of Tregs from MASLD to HCC, offering recent insights into potential targets for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Lopa Mishra
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Hai Huang
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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6
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Papadakos SP, Arvanitakis K, Stergiou IE, Koutsompina ML, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. γδ T Cells: A Game Changer in the Future of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1381. [PMID: 38338658 PMCID: PMC10855397 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031381] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a global health challenge with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis for advanced-stage patients. Recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy have generated significant interest in exploring novel approaches to combat HCC. One such approach involves the unique and versatile subset of T cells known as γδ T cells. γδ T cells represent a distinct subset of T lymphocytes that differ from conventional αβ T cells in terms of antigen recognition and effector functions. They play a crucial role in immunosurveillance against various malignancies, including HCC. Recent studies have demonstrated that γδ T cells can directly recognize and target HCC cells, making them an attractive candidate for immunotherapy. In this article, we aimed to explore the role exerted by γδ T cells in the context of HCC. We investigate strategies designed to maximize the therapeutic effectiveness of these cells and examine the challenges and opportunities inherent in applying these research findings to clinical practice. The potential to bring about a revolutionary shift in HCC immunotherapy by capitalizing on the unique attributes of γδ T cells offers considerable promise for enhancing patient outcomes, warranting further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.)
| | - Maria-Loukia Koutsompina
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.)
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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7
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Hu Y, Hu Q, Li Y, Lu L, Xiang Z, Yin Z, Kabelitz D, Wu Y. γδ T cells: origin and fate, subsets, diseases and immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:434. [PMID: 37989744 PMCID: PMC10663641 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01653-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricacy of diseases, shaped by intrinsic processes like immune system exhaustion and hyperactivation, highlights the potential of immune renormalization as a promising strategy in disease treatment. In recent years, our primary focus has centered on γδ T cell-based immunotherapy, particularly pioneering the use of allogeneic Vδ2+ γδ T cells for treating late-stage solid tumors and tuberculosis patients. However, we recognize untapped potential and optimization opportunities to fully harness γδ T cell effector functions in immunotherapy. This review aims to thoroughly examine γδ T cell immunology and its role in diseases. Initially, we elucidate functional differences between γδ T cells and their αβ T cell counterparts. We also provide an overview of major milestones in γδ T cell research since their discovery in 1984. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate biological processes governing their origin, development, fate decisions, and T cell receptor (TCR) rearrangement within the thymus. By examining the mechanisms underlying the anti-tumor functions of distinct γδ T cell subtypes based on γδTCR structure or cytokine release, we emphasize the importance of accurate subtyping in understanding γδ T cell function. We also explore the microenvironment-dependent functions of γδ T cell subsets, particularly in infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, hematological malignancies, and solid tumors. Finally, we propose future strategies for utilizing allogeneic γδ T cells in tumor immunotherapy. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to provide readers with a holistic understanding of the molecular fundamentals and translational research frontiers of γδ T cells, ultimately contributing to further advancements in harnessing the therapeutic potential of γδ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Qinglin Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Yongsheng Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China
| | - Zheng Xiang
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China.
| | - Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Yangzhe Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, China.
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8
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Ou Q, Power R, Griffin MD. Revisiting regulatory T cells as modulators of innate immune response and inflammatory diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1287465. [PMID: 37928540 PMCID: PMC10623442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1287465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are known to be critical for the maintenance of immune homeostasis by suppressing the activation of auto- or allo-reactive effector T cells through a diverse repertoire of molecular mechanisms. Accordingly, therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing Treg numbers or potency in the setting of autoimmunity and allogeneic transplants have been energetically pursued and are beginning to yield some encouraging outcomes in early phase clinical trials. Less well recognized from a translational perspective, however, has been the mounting body of evidence that Treg directly modulate most aspects of innate immune response under a range of different acute and chronic disease conditions. Recognizing this aspect of Treg immune modulatory function provides a bridge for the application of Treg-based therapies to common medical conditions in which organ and tissue damage is mediated primarily by inflammation involving myeloid cells (mononuclear phagocytes, granulocytes) and innate lymphocytes (NK cells, NKT cells, γδ T cells and ILCs). In this review, we comprehensively summarize pre-clinical and human research that has revealed diverse modulatory effects of Treg and specific Treg subpopulations on the range of innate immune cell types. In each case, we emphasize the key mechanistic insights and the evidence that Treg interactions with innate immune effectors can have significant impacts on disease severity or treatment. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges that exist for the application of Treg-based therapeutic interventions to three globally impactful, inflammatory conditions: type 2 diabetes and its end-organ complications, ischemia reperfusion injury and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qifeng Ou
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Rachael Power
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Matthew D. Griffin
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at CÚRAM SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Nephrology Department, Galway University Hospitals, Saolta University Healthcare Group, Galway, Ireland
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9
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Gao X, Zuo S. Immune landscape and immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: focus on innate and adaptive immune cells. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:1881-1899. [PMID: 36773210 PMCID: PMC10543580 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is responsible for roughly 90% of all cases of primary liver cancer, and the cases are on the rise. The treatment of advanced HCC is a serious challenge. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has marked a watershed moment in the history of HCC systemic treatment. Atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab has been approved as a first-line treatment for advanced HCC since 2020; however, the combination therapy is only effective in a limited percentage of patients. Considering that the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) has a great impact on immunotherapies for HCC, an in-depth understanding of the immune landscape in tumors and the current immunotherapeutic approaches is extremely necessary. We elaborate on the features, functions, and cross talk of the innate and adaptive immune cells in HCC and highlight the benefits and drawbacks of various immunotherapies for advanced HCC, as well as future projections. HCC consists of a heterogeneous group of cancers with distinct etiologies and immune microenvironments. Almost all the components of innate and adaptive immune cells in HCC have altered, showing a decreasing trend in the number of tumor suppressor cells and an increasing trend in the pro-cancer cells, and there is also cross talk between various cell types. Various immunotherapies for HCC have also shown promising efficacy and application prospect. There are multilayered interwoven webs among various immune cell types in HCC, and emerging evidence demonstrates the promising prospect of immunotherapeutic approaches for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiang Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28, Guiyi Street, Guiyang, 550000, Guizhou, China
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Shi Zuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28, Guiyi Street, Guiyang, 550000, Guizhou, China.
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
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10
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Immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2023; 555:216038. [PMID: 36529238 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.216038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has markedly enhanced the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and HCC patients who respond to ICIs have shown prolonged survival. However, only a subset of HCC patients benefit from ICIs, and those who initially respond to ICIs may develop resistance. ICI resistance is likely related to various factors, including the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), the absence of antigen expression and impaired antigen presentation, tumor heterogeneity, and gut microbiota. Therefore, exploring the possible mechanisms of ICI resistance is crucial to improve the clinical benefit of ICIs further. Various combination therapies for HCC immunotherapy have prevented and reversed ICI resistance to a certain extent. In addition, many new combination therapies that can overcome resistance are being explored. This review seeks to characterize the complex TME in HCC, explore the possible mechanisms of immune resistance to ICIs in different resistance categories, and review the combination therapies currently being applied and those under investigation for immunotherapy.
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11
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Chen C, Wang Z, Ding Y, Qin Y. Tumor microenvironment-mediated immune evasion in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1133308. [PMID: 36845131 PMCID: PMC9950271 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1133308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and is the third leading cause of tumor-related mortality worldwide. In recent years, the emergency of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) has revolutionized the management of HCC. Especially, the combination of atezolizumab (anti-PD1) and bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) has been approved by the FDA as the first-line treatment for advanced HCC. Despite great breakthrough in systemic therapy, HCC continues to portend a poor prognosis owing to drug resistance and frequent recurrence. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC is a complex and structured mixture characterized by abnormal angiogenesis, chronic inflammation, and dysregulated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, collectively contributing to the immunosuppressive milieu that in turn prompts HCC proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The tumor microenvironment coexists and interacts with various immune cells to maintain the development of HCC. It is widely accepted that a dysfunctional tumor-immune ecosystem can lead to the failure of immune surveillance. The immunosuppressive TME is an external cause for immune evasion in HCC consisting of 1) immunosuppressive cells; 2) co-inhibitory signals; 3) soluble cytokines and signaling cascades; 4) metabolically hostile tumor microenvironment; 5) the gut microbiota that affects the immune microenvironment. Importantly, the effectiveness of immunotherapy largely depends on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Also, the gut microbiota and metabolism profoundly affect the immune microenvironment. Understanding how TME affects HCC development and progression will contribute to better preventing HCC-specific immune evasion and overcoming resistance to already developed therapies. In this review, we mainly introduce immune evasion of HCC underlying the role of immune microenvironment, describe the dynamic interaction of immune microenvironment with dysfunctional metabolism and the gut microbiome, and propose therapeutic strategies to manipulate the TME in favor of more effective immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yanru Qin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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12
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Zhu R, Yan Q, Wang Y, Wang K. Biological characteristics of γδT cells and application in tumor immunotherapy. Front Genet 2023; 13:1077419. [PMID: 36685942 PMCID: PMC9846053 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1077419] [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: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human γδT cells are a special immune cell type which exist in small quantities in the body, do not require processing and presentation for antigen recognition, and have non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted immune response. They play an important role in the body's anti-tumor, anti-infection, immune regulation, immune surveillance and maintenance of immune tolerance. This article reviews the generation and development of human γδT cells, genetic characteristics, classification, recognition and role of antigens, and research progress in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renhong Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, China,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tai’an Tumor Prevention and Treatment Hospital, Tai’an, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tai’an, China
| | - Yashu Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Tai’an City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai’an, China
| | - Keqiang Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, China,*Correspondence: Keqiang Wang,
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Amajala KC, Gudivada IP, Malla RR. Gamma Delta T Cells: Role in Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Crit Rev Oncog 2023; 28:41-50. [PMID: 38050980 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2023049893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The most typical type of liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) develops from hepatocyte loss. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), viral hepatitis C and cirrhosis are the leading causes of HCC. With the Hepatitis B vaccine and medicines, there are several treatments for HCC, including liver resection, ablation, transplantation, immunotherapy, gene therapy, radiation embolization, and targeted therapy. Currently, a wide range of studies are carried out on gene therapy to identify biomarkers and pathways, which help us identify the exact stage of the disorder and reduce its effects. γδT cells have recently received much interest as a potential cancer treatment method in adaptive immunotherapy. γδT cells can quickly form connections between receptor and ligand activation. They can clonally expand and are a significant source of cytokines and chemokines. The present review provides a comprehensive understanding on the function of γδT cells in immunotherapies and how they are used to treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Chaitanya Amajala
- Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM Deemed to be University, Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Indu Priya Gudivada
- Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM Deemed to be University, Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Rama Rao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India; Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
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14
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The Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Untying an Intricate Immunological Network. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246151. [PMID: 36551635 PMCID: PMC9776867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC, the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, is prototypically an inflammation-driven cancer developing after years of inflammatory insults. Consequently, the hepatic microenvironment is a site of complex immunological activities. Moreover, the tolerogenic nature of the liver can act as a barrier to anti-tumor immunity, fostering cancer progression and resistance to immunotherapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICB). In addition to being a site of primary carcinogenesis, many cancer types have high tropism for the liver, and patients diagnosed with liver metastasis have a dismal prognosis. Therefore, understanding the immunological networks characterizing the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC will deepen our understanding of liver immunity, and it will underpin the dominant mechanisms controlling both spontaneous and therapy-induced anti-tumor immune responses. Herein, we discuss the contributions of the cellular and molecular components of the liver immune contexture during HCC onset and progression by underscoring how the balance between antagonistic immune responses can recast the properties of the TME and the response to ICB.
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15
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Ren H, Li W, Liu X, Zhao N. γδ T cells: The potential role in liver disease and implications for cancer immunotherapy. J Leukoc Biol 2022; 112:1663-1668. [PMID: 36098208 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5mr0822-733rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The γδ T cell subset was discovered over 30 years ago, yet continues to be an exciting and challenging component of the adaptive immune response. While γδ T cells represent a very small fraction of all T cells in humans, γδ T cells have a vital effect on human immunity, serving as a bridge between the innate and adaptive immune systems. The characteristics of γδ T cells include recognition of non-MHC restrictive antigens, as well as the ability to secrete an abundance of cytokines, suggesting that γδ T cells have high antitumor activity. As such, they have gained ample attention with respect to tumor immunotherapy in the last decade. The γδ T cell subset comprises up to ∼15-20% of the T-lymphocyte population in the liver, although the liver is recognized as an immune organ with primary immune functions, the role of γδ T cells in liver disease has not been established. Herein, we present a comprehensive overview of molecular mechanisms underlying immune γδ T cell activity in liver disease, including immune liver injury, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, and review γδ T cell-based clinical immunotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - WanJing Li
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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16
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Liu J, Tao H, Yuan T, Li J, Li J, Liang H, Huang Z, Zhang E. Immunomodulatory effects of regorafenib: Enhancing the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:992611. [PMID: 36119072 PMCID: PMC9479218 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.992611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy has shown significant benefits in the treatment of a variety of malignancies. However, not all cancer patients can benefit from this strategy due to drug resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need for methods that can effectively improve the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Combining anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy with regorafenib has been demonstrated as an effective method to enhance its therapeutic effect in several clinical studies. In this review, we describe common mechanisms of resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy, including lack of tumor immunogenicity, T cell dysfunction, and abnormal expression of PD-L1. Then, we illustrate the role of regorafenib in modifying the tumor microenvironment (TME) from multiple aspects, which is different from other tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Regorafenib not only has immunomodulatory effects on various immune cells, but can also regulate PD-L1 and MHC-I on tumor cells and promote normalization of abnormal blood vessels. Therefore, studies on the synergetic mechanism of the combination therapy may usher in a new era for cancer treatment and help us identify the most appropriate individuals for more precise treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Liu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haisu Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Yuan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Li
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Li
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Erlei Zhang, ; Zhiyong Huang, ; Huifang Liang,
| | - Zhiyong Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Erlei Zhang, ; Zhiyong Huang, ; Huifang Liang,
| | - Erlei Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Erlei Zhang, ; Zhiyong Huang, ; Huifang Liang,
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Protein Regulator of Cytokinesis 1 (PRC1) Upregulation Promotes Immune Suppression in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:7073472. [PMID: 35983074 PMCID: PMC9381293 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7073472] [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: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is a malignant cancer with widespread prevalence. The suppressive immune environment causes largely refractory to current treatment. The protein regulator of cytokinesis 1 (PRC1) is an essential gene for cytokinesis and is involved in cancer pathogenesis. However, the functions of PRC1 have been barely clarified, especially in LIHC. Here, we investigated the expression, prognostic value, and functions of PRC1 in LIHC. Pan-cancer analysis revealed the overexpression of PRC1 in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Four LIHC datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database confirmed the PRC1 overexpression in LIHC. The mRNA and protein levels of PRC1 in LIHC cells were higher than in normal liver cells. The overexpression of PRC1 predicted progressed clinical stage and poor prognosis of LIHC. We further investigated the functions of PRC1 by performing the Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of its coexpressing genes. High PRC1 expression was associated with increased genome instability of LIHC. Moreover, PRC1 was positively correlated with the infiltration of suppressive immune cells like T regulatory cells (Tregs) and polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) and was negatively correlated with the effector immune cells' infiltration, including B cells and CD8+ T cells. In addition, PRC1 was positively correlated with the expression of tumor immune checkpoint molecules. Taken together, PRC1 overexpression contributes to the genome instability and the suppressive immune microenvironment of LIHC. Thus, PRC1 has the potential to be a prognostic marker and therapeutic target of LIHC.
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18
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Marsh-Wakefield F, Ferguson AL, Liu K, Santhakumar C, McCaughan G, Palendira U. Approaches to spatially resolving the tumour immune microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2022; 14:17588359221113270. [PMID: 35898965 PMCID: PMC9310213 DOI: 10.1177/17588359221113270] [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: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common and deadly cancer worldwide. Many factors contribute to mortality and place an individual at high risk of developing HCC, including viral infection, alcohol intake, metabolic-associated disease, autoimmunity and genetic liver disorders. Although there are many therapeutics available, much about this disease remains to be understood. This is most evident when investigating the tumour microenvironment (TME). Both innate and adaptive immune cells have been associated with carcinogenesis within the TME of HCC patients. The ability to interrogate the TME more thoroughly with spatial technologies continues to improve, both at the experimental and analytical stages. This review provides insight into technologies available to investigate the TME, and how such technologies are beneficial for improving our understanding of HCC carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Marsh-Wakefield
- Liver Injury & Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Missenden Road, Sydney, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Angela L Ferguson
- Liver Injury & Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ken Liu
- Liver Injury & Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Geoffrey McCaughan
- Liver Injury & Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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19
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Identification of the function of γδ1 T cells in the lung cancer microenvironments. CLINICAL & TRANSLATIONAL ONCOLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF SPANISH ONCOLOGY SOCIETIES AND OF THE NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF MEXICO 2022; 24:1365-1371. [PMID: 35091999 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02780-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether γδ1 T cells derived from lung cancer tissues have immunosuppressive function and to verify the mechanism of immunosuppressive effect. METHODS Fresh lung cancer tissue samples were collected, some of them were prepared tissue sections, the others were isolated and amplified into TILs cells, γδ1 T cells were isolated from TILs cells by immunomagnetic beads kits, and then cloned and amplified. The immunomodulatory effects of γδ1 T cells on naive and effector CD4+ T cells were detected by immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, CCK8, ELISA and transwell culture. RESULTS A high proportion of γδ1 T cells was found in lung cancer tissues. The cultural supernatants of γδ1 T cells could inhibit the proliferation of naive CD4+ T cells and decrease the secretion level of IL-2 by effector CD4+ T cells. Further studies showed that the expression levels of IL-8, MIP-1α, MIP-1β and RANTES were higher than that of IFN-γ, GM-CSF and TNF-α, TNF-β, however, their neutralizing antibodies could not block the immunosuppressive activity of the supernatant. CONCLUSION γδ1 T cells play an negative immunoregulation function in lung cancer microenvironments, and have obvious immunosuppressive effects on proliferation and cytokine release of naive CD4+ T cells and effector CD4+ T cells. Preliminary evidence from this study suggests that the mechanism of immunosuppressive effects is mediated by the soluble factors in γδ1 T cell culture supernatants, but its exact molecular mechanism needs to be further explored.
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20
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Chen Y, Hu H, Yuan X, Fan X, Zhang C. Advances in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:896752. [PMID: 35757756 PMCID: PMC9226303 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.896752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is usually diagnosed in an advanced stage and has become the second deadliest type of cancer worldwide. The systemic treatment of advanced HCC has been a challenge, and for decades was limited to treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) until the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) became available. Due to drug resistance and unsatisfactory therapeutic effects of monotherapy with TKIs or ICIs, multi-ICIs, or the combination of ICIs with antiangiogenic drugs has become a novel strategy to treat advanced HCC. Antiangiogenic drugs mostly include TKIs (sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, cabozantinib and so on) and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), such as bevacizumab. Common ICIs include anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), including nivolumab, pembrolizumab, durvalumab, and atezolizumab, and anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4), including tremelimumab and ipilimumab. Combination therapies involving antiangiogenic drugs and ICIs or two ICIs may have a synergistic action and have shown greater efficacy in advanced HCC. In this review, we present an overview of the current knowledge and recent clinical developments in ICI-based combination therapies for advanced HCC and we provide an outlook on future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chen
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haoyue Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Medicine School of University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianglei Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue Fan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Medicine School of University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengda Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Hospital of Mianyang (Sichuan Mental Health Center), Mianyang, China
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21
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Pei Y, Xiang Z, Wen K, Tu CR, Wang X, Zhang Y, Mu X, Liu Y, Tu W. CD137 Costimulation Enhances the Antitumor Activity of Vγ9Vδ2-T Cells in IL-10-Mediated Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:872122. [PMID: 35784354 PMCID: PMC9247142 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.872122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although γδ-T cell-based tumor immunotherapy using phosphoantigens to boost γδ-T cell immunity has shown success in some cancer patients, the clinical application is limited due to the rapid exhaustion of Vγ9Vδ2-T cells caused by repetitive stimulation from phosphoantigens and the profoundly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, using a cell culture medium containing human and viral interleukin-10 (hIL-10 and vIL-10) secreted from EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid B cell lines (EBV-LCL) to mimic the immunosuppressive TEM, we found that the antitumor activity of Vγ9Vδ2-T cells was highly suppressed by endogenous hIL-10 and vIL-10 within the TME. CD137 costimulation could provide an anti-exhaustion signal to mitigate the suppressive effects of IL-10 in TME by suppressing IL-10R1 expression on Vγ9Vδ2-T cells. CD137 costimulation also improved the compromised antitumor activity of Vγ9Vδ2-T cells in TME with high levels of IL-10 in Rag2-/- γc-/- mice. In humanized mice, CD137 costimulation boosted the therapeutic effects of aminobisphosphonate pamidronate against EBV-induced lymphoma. Our study offers a novel approach to overcoming the obstacle of the hIL-10 and vIL-10-mediated immunosuppressive microenvironment by costimulating CD137 and enhancing the efficacy of γδ-T cell-based tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Pei
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Xiang
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kun Wen
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chloe Ran Tu
- Computational and Systems Biology Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Xiwei Wang
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yanmei Zhang
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaofeng Mu
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yinping Liu
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wenwei Tu
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Wenwei Tu,
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22
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Gao Y, You M, Yang P. Revisit the signatures of γδ T cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e859. [PMID: 35538898 PMCID: PMC9092003 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Maojun You
- CAS Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyuan Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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23
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Hu Y, Chen D, Hong M, Liu J, Li Y, Hao J, Lu L, Yin Z, Wu Y. Apoptosis, Pyroptosis, and Ferroptosis Conspiringly Induce Immunosuppressive Hepatocellular Carcinoma Microenvironment and γδ T-Cell Imbalance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:845974. [PMID: 35444645 PMCID: PMC9013882 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.845974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is highly malignant and prone to metastasize due to the heterogeneous and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Programmed cell deaths (PCDs) including apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis routinely occur in the HCC TME and participate in tumorigenesis. However, how apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis are involved in constructions of the immunosuppressive TME and their underlying cross-talk remains to be further unveiled. In this work, we deciphered the immunosuppressive landscape of HCC TME, which demonstrated high expressions of inhibitory checkpoint molecules and infiltration of protumor immune cells but low infiltration of antitumor effector immune cells. Further investigations unequivocally revealed that marker genes of apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis are closely correlated with expressions and infiltrations of inhibitory checkpoint molecules and immune cells and that higher "-optosis" links to poorer patient prognosis. Notably, such three types of "-optosis" interact with each other at both the gene and protein levels, suggesting that they conspiringly induce the establishment of the immunosuppressive HCC TME. Interestingly, examinations of circulating γδ T cells in HCC patients revealed a noticeable dysfunction phenotype. The strikingly elevated ratio of the Vδ1+ versus the Vδ2+ subset suggested that the Vδ1+/Vδ2+ ratio would be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis in HCC patients. Altogether, this work thoroughly decrypted the underlying correlations between apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis and the formation of immunosuppressive HCC TME and, meanwhile, indicated that allogeneic Vδ2+ γδ T-cell transfer would be a promising adjuvant strategy for renormalizing circulating γδ T cell and thus achieving sound clinical efficacy against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China.,Microbiology and Immunology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Minjing Hong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yijia Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianlei Hao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangzhe Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumour Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
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24
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He W, Hu Y, Chen D, Li Y, Ye D, Zhao Q, Lin L, Shi X, Lu L, Yin Z, He X, Gao Y, Wu Y. Hepatocellular carcinoma-infiltrating γδ T cells are functionally defected and allogenic Vδ2 + γδ T cell can be a promising complement. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e800. [PMID: 35390227 PMCID: PMC8989380 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), γδ T cells participate in mediating the anti-tumour response and are linked with a positive prognosis. However, these cells can become pro-tumoural in the tumour microenvironment (TME). We aimed to decipher the immune landscape and functional states of HCC-infiltrating γδ T cells to provide fundamental evidence for the adoptive transfer of allogeneic Vδ2+ γδ T cells in HCC immunotherapy. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on γδ T cells derived from HCC tumours and healthy donor livers. Confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and a Luminex assay were applied to validate the scRNA-seq findings. The γδ T cells in the HCC TME entered G2/M cell cycle arrest, and expressed cytotoxic molecules such as interferon-gamma and granzyme B, but were functionally exhausted as indicated by upregulated gene and protein LAG3 expression. The γδ T cells in the HCC TME were dominated by the LAG3+ Vδ1+ population, whereas the Vδ2+ γδ T population was greatly depleted. Moreover, glutamine metabolism of γδ T cells was markedly upregulated in the glutamine-deficient TME. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that glutamine deficiency upregulated LAG3 expression. Finally, our results indicated that ex vivo-expanded Vδ2+ γδ T cells from healthy donor could complement the loss of T cell receptor clonality and effector functions of HCC-derived γδ T cells. This work deciphered the dysfunctional signatures of HCC-infiltrating γδ T cells in the HCC TME, providing scientific support for the use of allogeneic Vδ2+ γδ T cells in HCC cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing He
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Yi Hu
- Microbiology and Immunology DepartmentSchool of MedicineJinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Dan Chen
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University)Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Yijia Li
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University)Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Dongmei Ye
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Li Lin
- The Biomedical Translational Research InstituteJinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Xiaomin Shi
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University)Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University)Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongP.R. China
- The Biomedical Translational Research InstituteJinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Xiaoshun He
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Yifang Gao
- Organ Transplantation UnitFirst Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ Donation and Transplant ImmunologyThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongP.R. China
| | - Yangzhe Wu
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational MedicineZhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University)Jinan UniversityZhuhaiGuangdongP.R. China
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Zakeri N, Hall A, Swadling L, Pallett LJ, Schmidt NM, Diniz MO, Kucykowicz S, Amin OE, Gander A, Pinzani M, Davidson BR, Quaglia A, Maini MK. Characterisation and induction of tissue-resident gamma delta T-cells to target hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1372. [PMID: 35296658 PMCID: PMC8927126 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29012-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is now the standard of care for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), yet many patients fail to respond. A major unmet goal is the boosting of T-cells with both strong HCC reactivity and the protective advantages of tissue-resident memory T-cells (TRM). Here, we show that higher intratumoural frequencies of γδ T-cells, which have potential for HLA-unrestricted tumour reactivity, associate with enhanced HCC patient survival. We demonstrate that γδ T-cells exhibit bona fide tissue-residency in human liver and HCC, with γδTRM showing no egress from hepatic vasculature, persistence for >10 years and superior anti-tumour cytokine production. The Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell subset is selectively depleted in HCC but can efficiently target HCC cell lines sensitised to accumulate isopentenyl-pyrophosphate by the aminobisphosphonate Zoledronic acid. Aminobisphosphonate-based expansion of peripheral Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells recapitulates a TRM phenotype and boosts cytotoxic potential. Thus, our data suggest more universally effective HCC immunotherapy may be achieved by combining aminobisphosphonates to induce Vγ9Vδ2TRM capable of replenishing the depleted pool, with additional intratumoural delivery to sensitise HCC to Vγ9Vδ2TRM-based targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nekisa Zakeri
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Hall
- Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Leo Swadling
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laura J Pallett
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nathalie M Schmidt
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mariana O Diniz
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Kucykowicz
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Oliver E Amin
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Amir Gander
- Division of Surgery, University College London, London, UK
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Alberto Quaglia
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Mala K Maini
- Division of Infection & Immunity, Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, University College London, London, UK.
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26
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Zhang W, Qian Y, Jin X, Wang Y, Mu L, Jiang Z. SIRT7 is a Prognostic Biomarker in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma That is Correlated with Immune Cell Infiltration. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:3167-3182. [PMID: 35342301 PMCID: PMC8942347 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s353610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SIRT7 has been shown to be expressed in many cancer types, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (KIRC), but its functional role in this oncogenic context remains to be firmly defined. This study was designed to explore correlations between SIRT7 and KIRC characteristics using the TCGA database. Methods Relationships between SIRT7 expression and KIRC patient clinicopathological characteristics were assessed through Kruskal–Wallis tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and logistic regression analyses. Area under the ROC curve (AUC) values were used to assess the prognostic value of SIRT7 as a means of classifying clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients. The functional role of SIRT7 in this cancer type was assessed through GO/KEGG enrichment analyses and immune cell infiltration analyses. Results In KIRC patients, higher levels of SIRT7 expression were associated with Race, M stage, T stage (all P < 0.05). SIRT7 offered significant diagnostic value in ROC curve analyses (AUC = 0.912), and elevated SIRT7 levels were linked to worse patient overall survival (OS; P < 0.001). The expression of SIRT7 was independently related with KIRC patient OS (HR: 1.827; 95% CI: 1.346–2.481; P<0.001). In GO/KEGG analyses, SIRT7 was found to be associated with ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and nucleotide excision repair. Higher SIRT7 expression was related to the enhanced infiltration of certain immune cells. Conclusion Increased SIRT7 expression was associated with a worse KIRC patient prognosis, and immune infiltrates, suggesting it may offer value as a prognostic biomarker for this cancer type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Wei Zhang, Department of Pathogen Biology, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, 550000, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China, Email
| | - Yue Qian
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xue Jin
- Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yixian Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lili Mu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhixia Jiang
- Guizhou Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, People’s Republic of China
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Ma X, Zhuang H, Wang Q, Yang L, Xie Z, Zhang Z, Tan W, Tang C, Chen Y, Shang C. SLC39A1 Overexpression is Associated with Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Promotes Its Malignant Progression. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:83-98. [PMID: 35211427 PMCID: PMC8858589 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s349966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Solute carrier family 39 member 1 (SLC39A1) has been identified as a zinc ion transport protein that possesses oncogenic properties in various types of cancers. However, its potential function in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression profile and potential mechanisms of SLC39A1 in HCC. Methods SLC39A1 expression was analyzed using multiple databases. The clinical significance and associated biological pathways of SLC39A1 were investigated using bioinformatics analysis. Potential correlations between SLC39A1 expression and tumor immunity in HCC were also evaluated using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Sixty paired HCC samples were used to verify the expression pattern of SLC39A1. In vitro studies were performed to investigate the oncogenic effects of SLC39A1 in HCC. Western blot analysis was conducted to further investigate the possible involved signaling pathways. Results The overexpression of SLC39A1 in HCC was determined by bioinformatics analysis and was confirmed in tissues from our center. SLC39A1 overexpression was also significantly correlated with worse prognosis, advanced TNM stage, and histological grade. GSEA analysis demonstrated that SLC39A1 overexpression was involved in various tumor-related pathways, such as the cell cycle and Wnt signaling pathway. SLC39A1 knockdown repressed the proliferation, invasion, and migration abilities of HCC cells. Furthermore, SLC39A1 knockdown decreased the expression of the tumor progression-related proteins (eg, cyclin D1 and MMP2) and Wnt signaling pathway-related proteins (eg, Wnt3A and β-catenin). In addition, SLC39A1 overexpression may be associated with impaired tumor immunity in HCC, as evidenced by the increased infiltration of Th2 cells and reduced infiltration of cytotoxic cells. Conclusion These findings preliminarily suggested the crucial effect of SLC39A1 overexpression on HCC tumor progression and immunosuppression, suggesting its potential as a novel prognostic and therapeutic target in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowu Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongkai Zhuang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingbin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiqin Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ziyu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenliang Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenwei Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yajin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Yajin Chen; Changzhen Shang, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-2034070701, Email ;
| | - Changzhen Shang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People’s Republic of China
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Gamma delta (γδ) T cells in cancer immunotherapy; where it comes from, where it will go? Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 919:174803. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Cai Q, Zhu M, Duan J, Wang H, Chen J, Xiao Y, Wang Y, Wang J, Yu X, Yang H. Comprehensive Analysis of Immune-Related Prognosis of TK1 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 11:786873. [PMID: 35127491 PMCID: PMC8814100 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.786873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased expression of TK1 is associated with the progression of a variety of tumors. However, the relationship of TK1 expression with immune cell infiltration and its prognostic value in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still unknown. In this study the TCGA database was used to evaluate TK1 expression and its impact on survival in patients with HCC. Compared with normal tissue, TK1 in the liver tissue of patients with HCC was significantly up-regulated at both the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, TK1 expression was significantly related to pathological stage, tumor stage and lymph node metastasis, with high TK1 expression being an unfavorable prognostic factor for HCC. TK1 expression was also significantly associated with the infiltration of B cells, T cells, and dendritic cells in HCC. Single-cell sequencing analysis revealed that TK1 was associated with relatively large changes in T cells, especially gamma-delta T cells. A prognostic risk score based on TK1-related immune genes (CD40LG and TNFRSF4) was established using COX regression analysis. By integrating the immune-related risk score model with clinical features, a nomogram was constructed to predict the survival rate of HCC patients (1 year, 3-year and 5-year AUC of 0.782, 0.783 and 0.771, respectively). Knockdown of the target gene for TK1 was found to have significant anti-apoptosis and pro-proliferation effects on HepG2 cells. The level of TK1 in the serum and liver tissue of patients with HCC was significantly increased relative to healthy controls. These findings highlight the role of TK1 in the tumor immune response of HCC patients and in the proliferation and apoptosis of HepG2 cells. TK1 could therefore be a potential immunotherapy target for HCC patients, while the two immune genes related to TK1 (CD40LG And TNFRSF4) may be promising prognostic biomarkers in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- *Correspondence: Qun Cai,
| | - Mingyan Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jinnan Duan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shaoxing People’s Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingdan Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yixin Xiao
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yangqin Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jianfang Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xuewen Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Schönefeldt S, Wais T, Herling M, Mustjoki S, Bekiaris V, Moriggl R, Neubauer HA. The Diverse Roles of γδ T Cells in Cancer: From Rapid Immunity to Aggressive Lymphoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6212. [PMID: 34944832 PMCID: PMC8699114 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells are unique players in shaping immune responses, lying at the intersection between innate and adaptive immunity. Unlike conventional αβ T cells, γδ T cells largely populate non-lymphoid peripheral tissues, demonstrating tissue specificity, and they respond to ligands in an MHC-independent manner. γδ T cells display rapid activation and effector functions, with a capacity for cytotoxic anti-tumour responses and production of inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ or IL-17. Their rapid cytotoxic nature makes them attractive cells for use in anti-cancer immunotherapies. However, upon transformation, γδ T cells can give rise to highly aggressive lymphomas. These rare malignancies often display poor patient survival, and no curative therapies exist. In this review, we discuss the diverse roles of γδ T cells in immune surveillance and response, with a particular focus on cancer immunity. We summarise the intriguing dichotomy between pro- and anti-tumour functions of γδ T cells in solid and haematological cancers, highlighting the key subsets involved. Finally, we discuss potential drivers of γδ T-cell transformation, summarising the main γδ T-cell lymphoma/leukaemia entities, their clinical features, recent advances in mapping their molecular and genomic landscapes, current treatment strategies and potential future targeting options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susann Schönefeldt
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.S.); (T.W.); (R.M.)
| | - Tamara Wais
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.S.); (T.W.); (R.M.)
| | - Marco Herling
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy and Hemostaseology, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Satu Mustjoki
- Hematology Research Unit Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
- iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Immunology Research Program and Department of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vasileios Bekiaris
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.S.); (T.W.); (R.M.)
| | - Heidi A. Neubauer
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.S.); (T.W.); (R.M.)
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31
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Immune Responses Following Locoregional Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Possible Roles of Adjuvant Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091387. [PMID: 34575463 PMCID: PMC8471821 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Unlike other types of cancer, HCC can be treated with locoregional treatments (LRTs) such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). However, recurrences following LRTs are common, and strategies to improve long-term outcomes need to be developed. The exhaustion of anti-tumor immunity in HCC has been well established in many reports and the immunomodulatory effects of LRTs (enhancement of tumor antigen-specific T cell responses after RFA, reduction of effector regulatory T cells after TACE) have also been reported in several previous studies. However, a comprehensive review of previous studies and the possible roles of immunotherapy following LRTs in HCC are not known. In this review, we discuss the immunological evidence of current clinical trials using LRTs and combined immunotherapies, and the possible role of this strategy.
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32
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Miyashita M, Shimizu T, Ashihara E, Ukimura O. Strategies to Improve the Antitumor Effect of γδ T Cell Immunotherapy for Clinical Application. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8910. [PMID: 34445615 PMCID: PMC8396358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human γδ T cells show potent cytotoxicity against various types of cancer cells in a major histocompatibility complex unrestricted manner. Phosphoantigens and nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-bis) stimulate γδ T cells via interaction between the γδ T cell receptor (TCR) and butyrophilin subfamily 3 member A1 (BTN3A1) expressed on target cells. γδ T cell immunotherapy is classified as either in vivo or ex vivo according to the method of activation. Immunotherapy with activated γδ T cells is well tolerated; however, the clinical benefits are unsatisfactory. Therefore, the antitumor effects need to be increased. Administration of γδ T cells into local cavities might improve antitumor effects by increasing the effector-to-target cell ratio. Some anticancer and molecularly targeted agents increase the cytotoxicity of γδ T cells via mechanisms involving natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D)-mediated recognition of target cells. Both the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells exert immunosuppressive effects via mechanisms that include inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules. Therefore, co-immunotherapy with γδ T cells plus immune checkpoint inhibitors is a strategy that may improve cytotoxicity. The use of a bispecific antibody and chimeric antigen receptor might be effective to overcome current therapeutic limitations. Such strategies should be tested in a clinical research setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Miyashita
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
- Department of Urology, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital, Kyoto 602-8026, Japan
| | - Teruki Shimizu
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
| | - Eishi Ashihara
- Department of Clinical and Translational Physiology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan;
| | - Osamu Ukimura
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan; (T.S.); (O.U.)
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Zheng Y, Li Y, Feng J, Li J, Ji J, Wu L, Yu Q, Dai W, Wu J, Zhou Y, Guo C. Cellular based immunotherapy for primary liver cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:250. [PMID: 34372912 PMCID: PMC8351445 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is a common malignancy with high morbidity and mortality. Poor prognosis and easy recurrence on PLC patients calls for optimizations of the current conventional treatments and the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. For most malignancies, including PLC, immune cells play crucial roles in regulating tumor microenvironments and specifically recognizing tumor cells. Therefore, cellular based immunotherapy has its instinctive advantages in PLC therapy as a novel therapeutic strategy. From the active and passive immune perspectives, we introduced the cellular based immunotherapies for PLC in this review, covering both the lymphoid and myeloid cells. Then we briefly review the combined cellular immunotherapeutic approaches and the existing obstacles for PLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jiao Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jie Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Liwei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Weiqi Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China.
| | - Yingqun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent disease with a progression that is modulated by the immune system. Systemic therapy is used in the advanced stage and until 2017 consisted only of antiangiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors has shown strong anti-tumour activity in a subset of patients and the combination of the anti-PDL1 antibody atezolizumab and the VEGF-neutralizing antibody bevacizumab has or will soon become the standard of care as a first-line therapy for HCC, whereas the anti-PD1 agents nivolumab and pembrolizumab are used after TKIs in several regions. Other immune strategies such as adoptive T-cell transfer, vaccination or virotherapy have not yet demonstrated consistent clinical activity. Major unmet challenges in HCC checkpoint immunotherapy are the discovery and validation of predictive biomarkers, advancing treatment to earlier stages of the disease, applying the treatment to patients with liver dysfunction and the discovery of more effective combinatorial or sequential approaches. Combinations with other systemic or local treatments are perceived as the most promising opportunities in HCC and some are already under evaluation in large-scale clinical trials. This Review provides up-to-date information on the best use of currently available immunotherapies in HCC and the therapeutic strategies under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sangro
- Liver Unit and HPB Oncology Area, Clinica Universidad de Navarra-IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Pablo Sarobe
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervás-Stubbs
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra-IDISNA and CIBERONC, Pamplona, Spain
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35
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Freitas JT, Lopez J, Llorian C, Boroni M, Kos L. The immunosuppressive role of Edn3 overexpression in the melanoma microenvironment. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2021; 34:1084-1093. [PMID: 34288510 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13002] [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: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endothelins are cytokines expressed in the microenvironment of several tumors. To identify which stromal cells in the melanoma microenvironment respond to endothelin, we injected murine melanoma cell lines B16F10, YUMM1.7, and YUMMER1.7 in a transgenic mouse that overexpresses endothelin 3 (Edn3) under the control of the keratin 5 promoter in the skin (K5-Edn3). All cell lines developed larger tumors in K5-Edn3 mice than in control animals. In YUMM1.7 tumors, the Edn3 receptor, endothelin receptor B (Ednrb), was expressed in several stromal cell types including immune cells. This result was validated by the identification of Ednrb-positive stromal cells in human melanoma from previously published RNA-seq data. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) and dendritic cell numbers were significantly higher in K5-Edn3 tumors when compared to control tumors. Edn3 increased Treg proliferation in vitro and the expression of FOXP3. YUMM1.7-GFP tumors in K5-Edn3 mice were sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitor (anti-CTLA-4) as well as to Ednrb blockage (BQ-788). Our results indicate that Ednrb signaling has an important role in the melanoma microenvironment where it mediates immunosuppression resulting in escape from tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliano T Freitas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jesus Lopez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Claudia Llorian
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mariana Boroni
- Division of Experimental and Translational Research, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Lab, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lidia Kos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.,Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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36
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Zhao N, Dang H, Ma L, Martin SP, Forgues M, Ylaya K, Hewitt SM, Wang XW. Intratumoral γδ T-Cell Infiltrates, Chemokine (C-C Motif) Ligand 4/Chemokine (C-C Motif) Ligand 5 Protein Expression and Survival in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Hepatology 2021; 73:1045-1060. [PMID: 32502310 PMCID: PMC9175512 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy which is often associated with a complex tumor microenvironment attributable to etiology-induced cellular inflammation. γδ T cells are known to detect and react to chronic inflammation, which is linked to cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Our recent genomic study revealed an increased infiltration of several immune cell types, including γδ T cells, in tumor microenvironments of a Thai HCC subtype associated with a good prognosis. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we quantified the amount of γδ T cells using a γδ T-cell-specific gene signature in 247 Chinese HCC patients. We also validated the γδ T-cell signature in American HCC patients. Additionally, such an association was only found in tumor transcriptomic data, but not in adjacent nontumor transcriptomic data, suggesting a selective enrichment of γδ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the γδ T-cell signature was positively correlated with the expression of natural killer cell receptor genes, such as NKG2D and cytolytic T-cell genes granzymes and perforin, suggesting a stronger T-cell-mediated cytotoxic activity. Furthermore, we found that the γδ T-cell-specific gene expression is positively correlated with the expression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4 (CCL4)/chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) and C-C chemokine receptor type 1 (CCR1)/C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), the receptors for γδ T cells. We validated these results using immunohistochemical analysis of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor biopsies from 182 HCC patients. Moreover, we found evidence of CCL4/CCL5-mediated recruitment of γδ T cells both in vitro and in a murine orthotopic Hepa1-6 HCC model. CONCLUSIONS We propose that CCL4/CCL5 may interact with their receptor, CCR1/CCR5, which may facilitate the recruitment of γδ T cells from peripheral blood or peritumor regions to the tumor regions. Consequently, an increasing infiltration of γδ T cells in tumors may enhance antitumor immunity and improve patients' prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD.,Department of General SurgeryTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Hien Dang
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Lichun Ma
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Sean P Martin
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Marshonna Forgues
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Kris Ylaya
- Laboratory of PathologyCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Stephen M Hewitt
- Laboratory of PathologyCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Xin Wei Wang
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD.,Liver Cancer ProgramCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMD
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37
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Park JH, Lee HK. Function of γδ T cells in tumor immunology and their application to cancer therapy. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:318-327. [PMID: 33707742 PMCID: PMC8080836 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00576-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
T cells of the γδ lineage are unconventional T cells with functions not restricted to MHC-mediated antigen presentation. Because of their broad antigen specificity and NK-like cytotoxicity, γδ T-cell importance in tumor immunology has been emphasized. However, some γδ T-cell subsets, especially those expressing IL-17, are immunosuppressive or tumor-promoting cells. Their cytokine profile and cytotoxicity are seemingly determined by cross-talk with microenvironment components, not by the γδTCR chain. Furthermore, much about the TCR antigen of γδ T cells remains unknown compared with the extreme diversity of their TCR chain pairs. Thus, the investigation and application of γδ T cells have been relatively difficult. Nevertheless, γδ T cells remain attractive targets for antitumor therapy because of their independence from MHC molecules. Because tumor cells have the ability to evade the immune system through MHC shedding, heterogeneous antigens, and low antigen spreading, MHC-independent γδ T cells represent good alternative targets for immunotherapy. Therefore, many approaches to using γδ T cells for antitumor therapy have been attempted, including induction of endogenous γδ T cell activation, adoptive transfer of expanded cells ex vivo, and utilization of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells. Here, we discuss the function of γδ T cells in tumor immunology and their application to cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang Hyun Park
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Kyu Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
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38
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Hou W, Wu X. Diverse Functions of γδ T Cells in the Progression of Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 11:619872. [PMID: 33597951 PMCID: PMC7882476 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.619872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are primary risk factors for a wide spectrum of liver diseases that severely affect human health. The liver is an immunological organ that has an abundance of immune cells. Thus, various innate or adaptive immune cells are involved in the progression of HBV or HCV infection. Among those cells, a unique kind of immune cell, the γδ T cell, contributes to promoting or inhibiting the progression of liver diseases. To reveal the diverse roles of γδ T cells in HBV or HCV infection, the properties and functions of these cells in human and mouse models are analyzed. Here, we briefly describe the characteristics and functions of γδ T cells subsets in liver diseases. Then, we fully discuss the diverse roles of γδ T cells in the progression of HBV or HCV infection, including stages of acute infection, chronic infection, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, the functions and existing problems of γδ T cells in HBV or HCV infection are summarized. A better understanding of the function of γδ T cells during the progression of HBV and HCV infection will be helpful for the treatment of virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Hou
- Key Laboratory for Critical Care Medicine of the Ministry of Health, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoli Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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39
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Lopes N, Silva‐Santos B. Functional and metabolic dichotomy of murine γδ T cell subsets in cancer immunity. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:17-26. [PMID: 33188652 PMCID: PMC7839746 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201948402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
γδ T cells can display a plethora of immune functions, but recent studies have highlighted their importance, in multiple disease models, as sources of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-17A (IL-17), and IFN-γ. These are produced by distinct murine effector γδ T cell subsets that diverge during thymic γδ T cell development. Among the multiple roles these subsets play in peripheral tissues, a striking dichotomy has emerged at tumor sites: whereas IFN-γ+ γδ T cells inhibit tumor cell growth, IL-17+ γδ T cells promote tumor progression and metastasis formation. In this review, we discuss the main lines of evidence, mostly from preclinical studies in mouse models, for this functional dichotomy in cancer immunity. We further highlight very recent advances in our understanding how metabolic sources and pathways can impact on the balance between IFN-γ+ and IL-17+ γδ T cells in the tumor microenvironment, which opens a new exciting avenue to explore toward the application of γδ T cells in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëlla Lopes
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de MedicinaUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
| | - Bruno Silva‐Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de MedicinaUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
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40
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Sangro B, Sarobe P, Hervás-Stubbs S, Melero I. Advances in immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 18:525-543. [PMID: 33850328 PMCID: PMC8042636 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-021-00438-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 627] [Impact Index Per Article: 209.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent disease with a progression that is modulated by the immune system. Systemic therapy is used in the advanced stage and until 2017 consisted only of antiangiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors has shown strong anti-tumour activity in a subset of patients and the combination of the anti-PDL1 antibody atezolizumab and the VEGF-neutralizing antibody bevacizumab has or will soon become the standard of care as a first-line therapy for HCC, whereas the anti-PD1 agents nivolumab and pembrolizumab are used after TKIs in several regions. Other immune strategies such as adoptive T-cell transfer, vaccination or virotherapy have not yet demonstrated consistent clinical activity. Major unmet challenges in HCC checkpoint immunotherapy are the discovery and validation of predictive biomarkers, advancing treatment to earlier stages of the disease, applying the treatment to patients with liver dysfunction and the discovery of more effective combinatorial or sequential approaches. Combinations with other systemic or local treatments are perceived as the most promising opportunities in HCC and some are already under evaluation in large-scale clinical trials. This Review provides up-to-date information on the best use of currently available immunotherapies in HCC and the therapeutic strategies under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sangro
- grid.411730.00000 0001 2191 685XLiver Unit and HPB Oncology Area, Clinica Universidad de Navarra-IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Pablo Sarobe
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervás-Stubbs
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, CIMA de la Universidad de Navarra, IDISNA and CIBEREHD, Pamplona, Spain ,grid.411730.00000 0001 2191 685XDepartment of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra-IDISNA and CIBERONC, Pamplona, Spain
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41
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Ruf B, Heinrich B, Greten TF. Immunobiology and immunotherapy of HCC: spotlight on innate and innate-like immune cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:112-127. [PMID: 33235387 PMCID: PMC7852696 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-00572-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-based therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the systemic treatment of various cancer types. The therapeutic application of monoclonal antibodies targeting inhibitory pathways such as programmed cell death-1(PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and CTLA-4 to cells of the adaptive immune system has recently been shown to generate meaningful improvement in the clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, current immunotherapeutic approaches induce durable responses in only a subset of HCC patients. Since immunologic mechanisms such as chronic inflammation due to chronic viral hepatitis or alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease play a crucial role in the initiation, development, and progression of HCC, it is important to understand the underlying mechanisms shaping the unique tumor microenvironment of liver cancer. The liver is an immunologic organ with large populations of innate and innate-like immune cells and is exposed to bacterial, viral, and fungal antigens through the gut-liver axis. Here, we summarize and highlight the role of these cells in liver cancer and propose strategies to therapeutically target them. We also discuss current immunotherapeutic strategies in HCC and outline recent advances in our understanding of how the therapeutic potential of these agents might be enhanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ruf
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
- NCI CCR Liver Cancer Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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42
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Kolb HR, Borcherding N, Zhang W. Understanding and Targeting Human Cancer Regulatory T Cells to Improve Therapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1278:229-256. [PMID: 33523451 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-6407-9_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical in maintaining immune homeostasis under various pathophysiological conditions. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that Tregs play an important role in cancer progression and that they do so by suppressing cancer-directed immune responses. Tregs have been targeted for destruction by exploiting antibodies against and small-molecule inhibitors of several molecules that are highly expressed in Tregs-including immune checkpoint molecules, chemokine receptors, and metabolites. To date, these strategies have had only limited antitumor efficacy, yet they have also created significant risk of autoimmunity because most of them do not differentiate Tregs in tumors from those in normal tissues. Currently, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based cancer immunotherapies have revolutionized cancer treatment, but the resistance to ICI is common and the elevation of Tregs is one of the most important mechanisms. Therapeutic strategies that can selectively eliminate Tregs in the tumor (i.e. therapies that do not run the risk of causing autoimmunity by affecting normal tissue), are urgently needed for the development of cancer immunotherapies. This chapter discusses specific properties of human Tregs under the context of cancer and the various ways to target Treg for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ryan Kolb
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nicholas Borcherding
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Weizhou Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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43
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Tissue-Resident Lymphocytes: Implications in Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010232. [PMID: 33379384 PMCID: PMC7796120 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a hard-to-treat cancer. The recent introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) provided viable options to treat HCC, but the response rate is currently not sufficient. Thus, a better understanding of ICI-responding cells within tumors is needed to improve outcomes of ICI treatment in HCC. Recently, tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells were defined as a subset of the memory T cell population; this cell population is actively under investigation to elucidate its role in anti-tumor immunity. In addition, the role of other tissue-resident populations such as tissue resident regulatory T (Treg) cells, mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, γδ T cells, and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in anti-tumor immunity is also actively being investigated. However, there is no study that summarizes recent studies and discusses future perspectives in terms of tissue resident lymphocytes in HCC. In this review, we summarize key features of tissue-resident lymphocytes and their role in the anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, we review recent studies regarding the characteristics of tissue-resident lymphocytes in HCC and their role in ICI treatment and other immunotherapeutic strategies.
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44
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Liu ZL, Zhu LL, Liu JH, Pu ZY, Ruan ZP, Chen J. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 and its association with tumor immune regulatory gene expression in hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:25172-25188. [PMID: 33223512 PMCID: PMC7803564 DOI: 10.18632/aging.104119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs have long been the only first-line treatment for advanced or unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, the combination of bevacizumab (an anti-VEGF drug) and atezolizumab (an immune checkpoint blockade, ICB) has been proven to have superior efficacy over sorafenib. However, the complex association between VEGF signaling pathway and tumor immune microenvironment is still largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the RNA sequencing and clinical data of 365 HCC patients obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas to investigate the potential correlation between VEGF signaling pathway and tumor immune microenvironment, including immune cell infiltration, 66 immune markers, genomic instability, and immune-related pathways. Our study revealed that VEGF signaling pathway score was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration and the expression profile of 66 immune markers. Enrichment analysis indicated that genes differentially expressed between two VEGF score subtypes were enriched in many immune-related Gene Ontology terms. Most importantly, both VEGF signaling pathway and activated CD8+ T cells were positively correlated with prognosis. Our findings suggest the co-activation of VEGF signaling pathway and tumor immune microenvironment in HCC patients, indicating the underlining mechanism of combination therapy including anti-VEGF drugs and ICBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Long Liu
- Division of Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ling-Ling Zhu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jing-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Professor Cai’s Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhang-Ya Pu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zhi-Ping Ruan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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45
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Atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in liver cancer: Deciphering the role of gut microbiome. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 149:171-255. [PMID: 33579424 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Much recent research has delved into understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of HCC pathogenesis, which has revealed to be heterogenous and complex. Two major hallmarks of HCC include: (i) a hijacked immunometabolism and (ii) a reprogramming in metabolic processes. We posit that the gut microbiota is a third component in an entanglement triangle contributing to HCC progression. Besides metagenomic studies highlighting the diagnostic potential in the gut microbiota profile, recent research is pinpointing the gut microbiota as an instigator, not just a mere bystander, in HCC. In this chapter, we discuss mechanistic insights on atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in HCC, including the examination of tumor-associated macrophages and neutrophils, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (e.g., T-cell exhaustion, regulatory T-cells, natural killer T-cells), the Warburg effect, rewiring of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and glutamine addiction. We further discuss the potential involvement of the gut microbiota in these characteristics of hepatocarcinogenesis. An immediate highlight is that microbiota metabolites (e.g., short chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids) can impair anti-tumor responses, which aggravates HCC. Lastly, we describe the rising 'new era' of immunotherapies (e.g., immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T-cell transfer) and discuss for the potential incorporation of gut microbiota targeted therapeutics (e.g., probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation) to alleviate HCC. Altogether, this chapter invigorates for continuous research to decipher the role of gut microbiome in HCC from its influence on immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming.
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46
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Marvin DL, Heijboer R, ten Dijke P, Ritsma L. TGF-β signaling in liver metastasis. Clin Transl Med 2020; 10:e160. [PMID: 33252863 PMCID: PMC7701955 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of liver metastases drastically worsens the prognosis of cancer patients. The liver is the second most prevalent metastatic site in cancer patients, but systemic therapeutic opportunities that target liver metastases are still limited. To aid the discovery of novel treatment options for metastatic liver disease, we provide insight into the cellular and molecular steps required for liver colonization. For successful colonization in the liver, adaptation of tumor cells and surrounding stroma is essential. This includes the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, the creation of a fibrotic and immune suppressive environment, angiogenesis, and adaptation of tumor cells. We illustrate that transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a central cytokine in all these processes. At last, we devise that future research should focus on TGF-β inhibitory strategies, especially in combination with immunotherapy. This promising systemic treatment strategy has potential to eliminate distant metastases as the efficacy of immunotherapy will be enhanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieuwke L Marvin
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Rosan Heijboer
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Laila Ritsma
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
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47
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Innate lymphocytes: pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of liver diseases and cancer. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 18:57-72. [PMID: 33041339 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-00561-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a lymphoid organ with unique immunological properties, particularly, its predominant innate immune system. The balance between immune tolerance and immune activity is critical to liver physiological functions and is responsible for the sensitivity of this organ to numerous diseases, including hepatotropic virus infection, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune liver disease, and liver cancer, which are major health problems globally. In the past decade, with the discovery of liver-resident natural killer cells, the importance of innate lymphocytes with tissue residency has gradually become the focus of research. In this review, we address the current knowledge regarding hepatic innate lymphocytes with unique characteristics, including NK cells, ILC1/2/3s, NKT cells, γδ T cells, and MAIT cells, and their potential roles in liver homeostasis maintenance and the progression of liver diseases and cancer. A better understanding of the immunopathogenesis of hepatic innate lymphocytes will be helpful for proposing effective treatments for liver diseases and cancer.
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Kabelitz D, Serrano R, Kouakanou L, Peters C, Kalyan S. Cancer immunotherapy with γδ T cells: many paths ahead of us. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 17:925-939. [PMID: 32699351 PMCID: PMC7609273 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-0504-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells play uniquely important roles in stress surveillance and immunity for infections and carcinogenesis. Human γδ T cells recognize and kill transformed cells independently of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) restriction, which is an essential feature of conventional αβ T cells. Vγ9Vδ2 γδ T cells, which prevail in the peripheral blood of healthy adults, are activated by microbial or endogenous tumor-derived pyrophosphates by a mechanism dependent on butyrophilin molecules. γδ T cells expressing other T cell receptor variable genes, notably Vδ1, are more abundant in mucosal tissue. In addition to the T cell receptor, γδ T cells usually express activating natural killer (NK) receptors, such as NKp30, NKp44, or NKG2D which binds to stress-inducible surface molecules that are absent on healthy cells but are frequently expressed on malignant cells. Therefore, γδ T cells are endowed with at least two independent recognition systems to sense tumor cells and to initiate anticancer effector mechanisms, including cytokine production and cytotoxicity. In view of their HLA-independent potent antitumor activity, there has been increasing interest in translating the unique potential of γδ T cells into innovative cellular cancer immunotherapies. Here, we discuss recent developments to enhance the efficacy of γδ T cell-based immunotherapy. This includes strategies for in vivo activation and tumor-targeting of γδ T cells, the optimization of in vitro expansion protocols, and the development of gene-modified γδ T cells. It is equally important to consider potential synergisms with other therapeutic strategies, notably checkpoint inhibitors, chemotherapy, or the (local) activation of innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Ruben Serrano
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Léonce Kouakanou
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Peters
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Shirin Kalyan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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Yi Y, Ni XC, Liu G, Yin YR, Huang JL, Gan W, Zhou PY, Guan RY, Zhou C, Sun BY, Qiu SJ. Clinical significance of herpes virus entry mediator expression in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:19. [PMID: 32774492 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11880] [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] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) is overexpressed in several malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, to the best of our knowledge, the clinical significance of HVEM in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC remains unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the clinical significance of HVEM in HBV-related HCC. In the present study, HVEM expression was evaluated in HCC cell lines and HCC frozen samples. The prognostic value of HVEM was assessed in a cohort of 221 patients with HBV-related HCC, following radical resection. B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) expression in subsets of CD8+ T cells was determined via flow cytometry analysis. The results demonstrated high HVEM expression in HCC cell lines, and in HCC tissues compared with paired non-cancerous liver tissues. HVEM expression was demonstrated to be significantly associated with tumor encapsulation and vascular invasion. Furthermore, tumor HVEM status was significantly associated with infiltration of regulatory T cells, but not with CD8+ T cells. Notably, high HVEM expression in HCC was determined to be an independent predictor of an unfavorable outcome of patients with HCC following radical resection. Higher BTLA expression (the receptor of HVEM) was observed in both HCC-infiltrating CD8+ effector memory (CCR7- CD45RA-) and CD45RA+ effector memory (CCR7- CD45RA+) T cells in HCC tissues and blood compared with those in paired peritumor tissues or peripheral blood. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that HVEM may serve a critical role in HBV-related HCC, most likely by promoting tumor progression and tumor immune evasion, thus the HVEM/BLTA signaling pathway may be a potential target in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Chun Ni
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200000, P.R. China
| | - Gao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Rui Yin
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Jing-Long Huang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Wei Gan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Pei-Yun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Ruo-Yu Guan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Bao-Ye Sun
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Shuang-Jian Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
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Schilbach K, Krickeberg N, Kaißer C, Mingram S, Kind J, Siegers GM, Hashimoto H. Suppressive activity of Vδ2 + γδ T cells on αβ T cells is licensed by TCR signaling and correlates with signal strength. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2020; 69:593-610. [PMID: 31982940 PMCID: PMC7113223 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02469-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent progress in the understanding of γδ T cells' roles and functions, their interaction with αβ T cells still remains to be elucidated. In this study, we sought to clarify what precisely endows peripheral Vδ2+ T cells with immunosuppressive function on autologous αβ T cells. We found that negatively freshly isolated Vδ2+ T cells do not exhibit suppressive behavior, even after stimulation with IL-12/IL-18/IL-15 or the sheer contact with butyrophilin-3A1-expressing tumor cell lines (U251 or SK-Mel-28). On the other hand, Vδ2+ T cells positively isolated through TCR crosslinking or after prolonged stimulation with isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) mediate strong inhibitory effects on αβ T cell proliferation. Stimulation with IPP in the presence of IL-15 induces the most robust suppressive phenotype of Vδ2+ T cells. This indicates that Vδ2+ T cells' suppressive activity is dependent on a TCR signal and that the degree of suppression correlates with its strength. Vδ2+ T cell immunosuppression does not correlate with their Foxp3 expression but rather with their PD-L1 protein expression, evidenced by the massive reduction of suppressive activity when using a blocking antibody. In conclusion, pharmacologic stimulation of Vδ2+ T cells via the Vδ2 TCR for activation and expansion induces Vδ2+ T cells' potent killer activity while simultaneously licensing them to suppress αβ T cell responses. Taken together, the study is a further step to understand-in more detail-the suppressive activity of Vδ2+ γδ T cells.
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MESH Headings
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/immunology
- B7-H1 Antigen/genetics
- B7-H1 Antigen/immunology
- B7-H1 Antigen/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Gene Expression/drug effects
- Gene Expression/immunology
- Hemiterpenes/pharmacology
- Humans
- Immune Tolerance/drug effects
- Immune Tolerance/genetics
- Immune Tolerance/immunology
- Interleukin-15/pharmacology
- Lymphocyte Activation/drug effects
- Lymphocyte Activation/immunology
- Organophosphorus Compounds/pharmacology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/metabolism
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/immunology
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/immunology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/drug effects
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Schilbach
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Naomi Krickeberg
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Carlotta Kaißer
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simon Mingram
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Janika Kind
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Hisayoshi Hashimoto
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler Street 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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