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Amini L, Kaeda J, Weber O, Reinke P. Low-dose Interleukin-2 Therapy: Fine-tuning Treg in Solid Organ Transplantation? Transplantation 2024; 108:1492-1508. [PMID: 38294829 PMCID: PMC11188637 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg), a subset of CD4 + T cells, are potent regulators of immune reactions, which have been shown to be a promising therapeutic alternative to toxic immunosuppressive drugs. Data support the utility of Treg in managing immunopathologies, including solid organ transplant rejection, graft-versus-host disease, and autoimmune disorders. Notably, reports suggest that interleukin-2 (IL-2) is critical to survival of Treg, which constitutively express high levels of CD25, that is, the IL-2 receptor α-chain, and are exquisitely sensitive to IL-2, even at very low concentrations in contrast to effector T cells, which only upregulate IL-2 receptor α-chain on activation. This has led to the notion of using low doses of exogenous IL-2 therapeutically to modulate the immune system, specifically Treg numbers and function. Here, we summarize developments of clinical experience with low-dose IL-2 (LD-IL-2) as a therapeutic agent. So far, no clinical data are available to support the therapeutic use of LD-IL-2 therapy in the solid organ transplant setting. For the latter, fine-tuning by biotechnological approaches may be needed because of the narrow therapeutic window and off-target effects of LD-IL-2 therapy and so to realize the therapeutic potential of this molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Amini
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health – Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jaspal Kaeda
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Olaf Weber
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology (IMMEI), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Petra Reinke
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health – Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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2
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Ramírez-Valle F, Maranville JC, Roy S, Plenge RM. Sequential immunotherapy: towards cures for autoimmunity. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:501-524. [PMID: 38839912 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00959-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Despite major progress in the treatment of autoimmune diseases in the past two decades, most therapies do not cure disease and can be associated with increased risk of infection through broad suppression of the immune system. However, advances in understanding the causes of autoimmune disease and clinical data from novel therapeutic modalities such as chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies provide evidence that it may be possible to re-establish immune homeostasis and, potentially, prolong remission or even cure autoimmune diseases. Here, we propose a 'sequential immunotherapy' framework for immune system modulation to help achieve this ambitious goal. This framework encompasses three steps: controlling inflammation; resetting the immune system through elimination of pathogenic immune memory cells; and promoting and maintaining immune homeostasis via immune regulatory agents and tissue repair. We discuss existing drugs and those in development for each of the three steps. We also highlight the importance of causal human biology in identifying and prioritizing novel immunotherapeutic strategies as well as informing their application in specific patient subsets, enabling precision medicine approaches that have the potential to transform clinical care.
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3
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Zhang R, Zhao Y, Chen X, Zhuang Z, Li X, Shen E. Low-dose IL-2 therapy in autoimmune diseases: An update review. Int Rev Immunol 2024; 43:113-137. [PMID: 37882232 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2023.2274574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells are essential for maintaining self-immune tolerance. Reduced numbers or functions of Treg cells have been involved in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases and allograft rejection. Therefore, the approaches that increase the pool or suppressive function of Treg cells in vivo could be a general strategy to treat different autoimmune diseases and allograft rejection. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is essential for the development, survival, maintenance, and function of Treg cells, constitutively expressing the high-affinity receptor of IL-2 and sensitive response to IL-2 in vivo. And low-dose IL-2 therapy in vivo could restore the imbalance between autoimmune response and self-tolerance toward self-tolerance via promoting Treg cell expansion and inhibiting follicular helper T (Tfh) and IL-17-producing helper T (Th17) cell differentiation. Currently, low-dose IL-2 treatment is receiving extensive attention in autoimmune disease and transplantation treatment. In this review, we summarize the biology of IL-2/IL-2 receptor, the mechanisms of low-dose IL-2 therapy in autoimmune diseases, the application in the progress of different autoimmune diseases, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), Alopecia Areata (AA), Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) and Chronic graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD). We also discuss the future directions to optimize low-dose IL-2 treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhi Zhang
- Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuyang Zhao
- Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangming Chen
- Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoqing Zhuang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Erxia Shen
- Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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4
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Radi H, Ferdosi-Shahandashti E, Kardar GA, Hafezi N. An Updated Review of Interleukin-2 Therapy in Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2024; 44:143-157. [PMID: 38421721 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2023.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a cytokine that acts in dual and paradoxical ways in the immunotherapy of cancers and autoimmune diseases. Numerous clinical trial studies have shown that the use of different doses of this cytokine in various autoimmune diseases, transplantations, and cancers has resulted in therapeutic success. However, side effects of varying severity have been observed in patients. In recent years, to prevent these side effects, IL-2 has been engineered to bind more specifically to its receptors on the cell surface, decreasing IL-2 toxicities in patients. In this review article, we focus on some recent clinical trial studies and analyze them to determine the appropriate dose of IL-2 drug with the least toxicities. In addition, we discuss the engineering performed on IL-2, which shows that engineered IL-2 increases the specificity function of IL-2 and decreases its adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hale Radi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ferdosi-Shahandashti
- Biomedical and Microbial Advanced Technologies (BMAT) Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Gholam Ali Kardar
- National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Hafezi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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5
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Ptacin JL, Ma L, Caffaro CE, Acuff NV, Germar K, Severy P, Qu Y, Vela JL, Cai X, San Jose KM, Aerni HR, Chen DB, Esche E, Ismaili TK, Herman R, Pavlova Y, Pena MJ, Nguyen J, Koriazova LK, Shawver LK, Joseph IB, Mooney J, Peakman M, Milla ME. A CD25-biased interleukin-2 for autoimmune therapy engineered via a semi-synthetic organism. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2024; 4:58. [PMID: 38532017 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-024-00485-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural cytokines are poorly suited as therapeutics for systemic administration due to suboptimal pharmacological and pharmacokinetic (PK) properties. Recombinant human interleukin-2 (rhIL-2) has shown promise for treatment of autoimmune (AI) disorders yet exhibits short systemic half-life and opposing immune responses that negate an appropriate therapeutic index. METHODS A semi-synthetic microbial technology platform was used to engineer a site-specifically pegylated form of rhIL-2 with enhanced PK, specificity for induction of immune-suppressive regulatory CD4 + T cells (Tregs), and reduced stimulation of off-target effector T and NK cells. A library of rhIL-2 molecules was constructed with single site-specific, biorthogonal chemistry-compatible non-canonical amino acids installed near the interface where IL-2 engages its cognate receptor βγ (IL-2Rβγ) signaling complex. Biorthogonal site-specific pegylation and functional screening identified variants that retained engagement of the IL-2Rα chain with attenuated potency at the IL-2Rβγ complex. RESULTS Phenotypic screening in mouse identifies SAR444336 (SAR'336; formerly known as THOR-809), rhIL-2 pegylated at H16, as a potential development candidate that specifically expands peripheral CD4+ Tregs with upregulation of markers that correlate with their suppressive function including FoxP3, ICOS and Helios, yet minimally expands CD8 + T or NK cells. In non-human primate, administration of SAR'336 also induces dose-dependent expansion of Tregs and upregulated suppressive markers without significant expansion of CD8 + T or NK cells. SAR'336 administration reduces inflammation in a delayed-type hypersensitivity mouse model, potently suppressing CD4+ and CD8 + T cell proliferation. CONCLUSION SAR'336 is a specific Treg activator, supporting its further development for the treatment of AI diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerod L Ptacin
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Lina Ma
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Carolina E Caffaro
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Nicole V Acuff
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | | | - Peter Severy
- Sanofi, 350 Water St., Cambridge, MA, 02141, USA
| | - Yanyan Qu
- Sanofi, 350 Water St., Cambridge, MA, 02141, USA
| | | | - Xinming Cai
- Sanofi, 350 Water St., Cambridge, MA, 02141, USA
| | - Kristine M San Jose
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Hans R Aerni
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - David B Chen
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Ean Esche
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Taylor K Ismaili
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Rob Herman
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Yelena Pavlova
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Michael J Pena
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Jasmine Nguyen
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Lilia K Koriazova
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Laura K Shawver
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Ingrid B Joseph
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Jill Mooney
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Mark Peakman
- Sanofi, 350 Water St., Cambridge, MA, 02141, USA
| | - Marcos E Milla
- Synthorx, a Sanofi Company, 11099 N. Torrey Pines Rd. Suite 190, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
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6
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Shouse AN, LaPorte KM, Malek TR. Interleukin-2 signaling in the regulation of T cell biology in autoimmunity and cancer. Immunity 2024; 57:414-428. [PMID: 38479359 PMCID: PMC11126276 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.02.001] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a critical cytokine for T cell peripheral tolerance and immunity. Here, we review how IL-2 interaction with the high-affinity IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) supports the development and homeostasis of regulatory T cells and contributes to the differentiation of helper, cytotoxic, and memory T cells. A critical element for each T cell population is the expression of CD25 (Il2rα), which heightens the receptor affinity for IL-2. Signaling through the high-affinity IL-2R also reinvigorates CD8+ exhausted T (Tex) cells in response to checkpoint blockade. We consider the molecular underpinnings reflecting how IL-2R signaling impacts these various T cell subsets and the implications for enhancing IL-2-dependent immunotherapy of autoimmunity, other inflammatory disorders, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acacia N Shouse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kathryn M LaPorte
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Thomas R Malek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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7
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Tomasovic LM, Liu K, VanDyke D, Fabilane CS, Spangler JB. Molecular Engineering of Interleukin-2 for Enhanced Therapeutic Activity in Autoimmune Diseases. BioDrugs 2024; 38:227-248. [PMID: 37999893 PMCID: PMC10947368 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00635-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The interleukin-2 (IL-2) cytokine plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses and maintaining immune homeostasis. Its immunosuppressive effects have been harnessed therapeutically via administration of low cytokine doses. Low-dose IL-2 has shown promise in the treatment of various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases; however, the clinical use of IL-2 is complicated by its toxicity, its pleiotropic effects on both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive cell subsets, and its short serum half-life, which collectively limit the therapeutic window. As a result, there remains a considerable need for IL-2-based autoimmune disease therapies that can selectively target regulatory T cells with minimal off-target binding to immune effector cells in order to prevent cytokine-mediated toxicities and optimize therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we discuss exciting advances in IL-2 engineering that are empowering the development of novel therapies to treat autoimmune conditions. We describe the structural mechanisms of IL-2 signaling, explore current applications of IL-2-based compounds as immunoregulatory interventions, and detail the progress and challenges associated with clinical adoption of IL-2 therapies. In particular, we focus on protein engineering approaches that have been employed to optimize the regulatory T-cell bias of IL-2, including structure-guided or computational design of cytokine mutants, conjugation to polyethylene glycol, and the development of IL-2 fusion proteins. We also consider future research directions for enhancing the translational potential of engineered IL-2-based therapies. Overall, this review highlights the immense potential to leverage the immunoregulatory properties of IL-2 for targeted treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke M Tomasovic
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathy Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Derek VanDyke
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charina S Fabilane
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Program in Molecular Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jamie B Spangler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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8
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Lansberry TR, Stabler CL. Immunoprotection of cellular transplants for autoimmune type 1 diabetes through local drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 206:115179. [PMID: 38286164 PMCID: PMC11140763 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune condition that results in the destruction of insulin-secreting β cells of the islets of Langerhans. Allogeneic islet transplantation could be a successful treatment for T1DM; however, it is limited by the need for effective, permanent immunosuppression to prevent graft rejection. Upon transplantation, islets are rejected through non-specific, alloantigen specific, and recurring autoimmune pathways. Immunosuppressive agents used for islet transplantation are generally successful in inhibiting alloantigen rejection, but they are suboptimal in hindering non-specific and autoimmune pathways. In this review, we summarize the challenges with cellular immunological rejection and therapeutics used for islet transplantation. We highlight agents that target these three immune rejection pathways and how to package them for controlled, local delivery via biomaterials. Exploring macro-, micro-, and nano-scale immunomodulatory biomaterial platforms, we summarize their advantages, challenges, and future directions. We hypothesize that understanding their key features will help identify effective platforms to prevent islet graft rejection. Outcomes can further be translated to other cellular therapies beyond T1DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Lansberry
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - C L Stabler
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Immunology and Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; University of Florida Diabetes Institute, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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9
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Efe O, Gassen RB, Morena L, Ganchiku Y, Al Jurdi A, Lape IT, Ventura-Aguiar P, LeGuern C, Madsen JC, Shriver Z, Babcock GJ, Borges TJ, Riella LV. A humanized IL-2 mutein expands Tregs and prolongs transplant survival in preclinical models. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e173107. [PMID: 38426492 PMCID: PMC10904054 DOI: 10.1172/jci173107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-term organ transplant survival remains suboptimal, and life-long immunosuppression predisposes transplant recipients to an increased risk of infection, malignancy, and kidney toxicity. Promoting the regulatory arm of the immune system by expanding Tregs may allow immunosuppression minimization and improve long-term graft outcomes. While low-dose IL-2 treatment can expand Tregs, it has a short half-life and off-target expansion of NK and effector T cells, limiting its clinical applicability. Here, we designed a humanized mutein IL-2 with high Treg selectivity and a prolonged half-life due to the fusion of an Fc domain, which we termed mIL-2. We showed selective and sustainable Treg expansion by mIL-2 in 2 murine models of skin transplantation. This expansion led to donor-specific tolerance through robust increases in polyclonal and antigen-specific Tregs, along with enhanced Treg-suppressive function. We also showed that Treg expansion by mIL-2 could overcome the failure of calcineurin inhibitors or costimulation blockade to prolong the survival of major-mismatched skin grafts. Validating its translational potential, mIL-2 induced a selective and sustainable in vivo Treg expansion in cynomolgus monkeys and showed selectivity for human Tregs in vitro and in a humanized mouse model. This work demonstrated that mIL-2 can enhance immune regulation and promote long-term allograft survival, potentially minimizing immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Efe
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | - Leela Morena
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery
| | | | - Ayman Al Jurdi
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | | | | | - Joren C. Madsen
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Leonardo V. Riella
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, and
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10
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Arshad SF, Rehana R, Saleem MA, Usman M, Arshad HJ, Rizwana R, Shakeela S, Rukh AS, Khan IA, Hayssam MA, Anwar M. Multi-epitopes vaccine design for surface glycoprotein against SARS-CoV-2 using immunoinformatic approach. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24186. [PMID: 38298616 PMCID: PMC10827691 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The recent COVID vaccinations have successfully reduced death and severity but did not stop the transmission of viruses by the emerging SARS-CoV-2 strain. There is a need for better and long-lasting dynamic vaccines for numerous prevailing strains and the evolving SARS-CoV-2 virus, necessitating the development of broad-spectrum strains being used to stop infection by reducing the spread rate and re-infection. The spike (S) glycoprotein is one of the proteins expressed commonly in the early phases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. It has been identified as the most immunogenic protein of SARS-CoV-2. Methods In this study, advanced bioinformatics techniques have been exploited to design the novel multi-epitope vaccine using conserved S protein portions from widespread strains of SARS-CoV-2 to predict B cell and T cell epitopes. These epitopes were selected based on toxicity, antigenicity score and immunogenicity. Epitope combinations were used to construct the maximum potent multi-epitope construct with potential immunogenic features. EAAAK, AAY, and GPGPG were used as linkers to construct epitopes. Results The developed vaccine has shown positive results. After the chimeric vaccine construct was cloned into the PET28a (+) vector for expression screening in Escherichia coli, the potential expression of the construct was identified. Conclusion The construct vaccine performed well in computer-based immune response simulation and covered a variety of allelic populations. These computational results are more helpful for further analysis of our contract vaccine, which can finally help control and prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarmad Frogh Arshad
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, 66000, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehana
- Institute of Plant Breeding & Biotechnology (IPBB), Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, 66000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Saleem
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Bahauddin Zakaria University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, 66000, Pakistan
| | - Hasan Junaid Arshad
- Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Rizwana Rizwana
- Department of Biochemistry, Bahauddin Zakaria University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan
| | | | - Asma Shah Rukh
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy Punjab University, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Imran Ahmad Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, 54590, Pakistan
| | - M. Ali Hayssam
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 1145, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Anwar
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, PR China
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11
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Tomala J, Cao SD, Spangler JB. Engineering Anticytokine Antibodies for Immune Modulation. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:225-234. [PMID: 38166248 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The delicate balance of immune homeostasis is regulated by the interactions between cytokines and their cognate cell surface signaling receptors. There is intensive interest in harnessing cytokines as drugs for diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. However, the multifarious and often contradictory activities of cytokines, coupled with their short serum half-lives, limit clinical performance and result in dangerous toxicities. There is thus growing emphasis on manipulating natural cytokines to enhance their selectivity, safety, and durability through various strategies. One strategy that has gained traction in recent years is the development of anticytokine Abs that not only extend the circulation half-life of cytokines but also specifically bias their immune activities through multilayered molecular mechanisms. Although Abs are notorious for their antagonistic activities, this review focuses on anticytokine Abs that selectively agonize the activity of the target protein. This approach has potential to help realize the clinical promise of cytokine-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Tomala
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Shanelle D Cao
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jamie B Spangler
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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12
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Wang X, Liu Z, Wang D, Zhang Y, Zhang H, Xue F, Wang X, Tang Z, Han X. Immunoswitch Nanomodulators Enable Active Targeting and Selective Proliferation of Regulatory T Cells for Multiple Sclerosis Therapy. ACS NANO 2024; 18:770-782. [PMID: 38113242 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) used in multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy modulates the balance between regulatory T (Treg) cells and effector T (Teff) cells. However, the off-target activation of Teff cells by IL-2 limits its clinical application. Therefore, a rapidly prepared immunoswitch nanomodulator termed aT-IL2C NPs was developed, which specifically recognized Treg cells with high TIGIT expression thanks to the presence of an anti-TIGIT and an IL-2/JES6-1 complex (IL2C) being delivered to Treg cells but not to Teff cells with low TIGIT expression. Then, IL2C released IL-2 due to the specific expression of the high-affinity IL-2 receptor on Treg cells, thus enabling the active targeting and selective proliferation of Treg cells. Moreover, the anti-TIGIT of aT-IL2C NPs selectively inhibited the proliferation of Teff cells while leaving the proliferation of Treg cells unaffected. In addition, since the IL-2 receptor on Teff cells had medium-affinity, the IL2C hardly released IL-2 to Teff cells, thus enabling the inhibition of Teff cell proliferation. The treatment of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice with aT-IL2C NPs ameliorated the severity of the EAE and restored white matter integrity. Collectively, this work described a potential promising agent for effective MS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Wang
- No. 1 Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Road, Changchun 130033, China
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Zhilin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Di Wang
- No. 1 Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Road, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Yingyu Zhang
- No. 1 Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Road, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Honglei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmentally Friendly Chemistry and Applications of Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Polymeric Materials & Application Technology of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, China
| | - Fuxin Xue
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
- Key Laboratory of UV-Emitting Materials and Technology (Northeast Normal University), Ministry of Education, Changchun, Jilin 130024, China
| | - Xianhong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Zhaohui Tang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Road, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xuemei Han
- No. 1 Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Road, Changchun 130033, China
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13
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Kawakami R, Sakaguchi S. Regulatory T Cells for Control of Autoimmunity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1444:67-82. [PMID: 38467973 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-9781-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells, which specifically express the master transcription factor FoxP3, are indispensable for the maintenance of immunological self-tolerance and homeostasis. Their functional or numerical anomalies can be causative of autoimmune and other inflammatory diseases. Recent advances in the research of the cellular and molecular basis of how Treg cells develop, exert suppression, and maintain their function have enabled devising various ways for controlling physiological and pathological immune responses by targeting Treg cells. It is now envisaged that Treg cells as a "living drug" are able to achieve antigen-specific immune suppression of various immune responses and reestablish immunological self-tolerance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Kawakami
- Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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14
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Georgiev P, Benamar M, Han S, Haigis MC, Sharpe AH, Chatila TA. Regulatory T cells in dominant immunologic tolerance. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 153:28-41. [PMID: 37778472 PMCID: PMC10842646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells expressing the transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 mediate peripheral immune tolerance both to self-antigens and to the commensal flora. Their defective function due to inborn errors of immunity or acquired insults is associated with a broad range of autoimmune and immune dysregulatory diseases. Although their function in suppressing autoimmunity and enforcing commensalism is established, a broader role for regulatory T cells in tissue repair and metabolic regulation has emerged, enabled by unique programs of tissue adaptability and specialization. In this review, we focus on the myriad roles played by regulatory T cells in immunologic tolerance and host homeostasis and the potential to harness these cells in novel therapeutic approaches to human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Georgiev
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Mehdi Benamar
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - SeongJun Han
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Marcia C Haigis
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Arlene H Sharpe
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Talal A Chatila
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Mass; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
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15
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Huang H. Immunotherapeutic approaches for systemic lupus erythematosus: early overview and future potential. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2023; 3:452-464. [PMID: 38282801 PMCID: PMC10808868 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease. Current SLE therapies include immunosuppressants, antimalarial drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids, but these treatments can cause substantial toxicities to organs and may not be effective for all patients. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the treatment of SLE using immunotherapy, including Benlysta and Saphnelo. These advances in immunotherapy hold promise for SLE patients, providing new therapeutic options that may offer better clinical benefit and effectiveness. Simultaneously, several new biological therapies focusing on cytokines, peptides, targeted antibodies, and cell-based approaches are under clinical evaluation and have shown immense potential for the treatment of SLE. However, the complexity of SLE immunopathogenesis and disease heterogeneity present significant challenges in the development of effective immunological therapies. This review aims to discuss past experiences and understanding of diverse immunological targeting therapies for SLE and highlight future perspectives for the development of novel immunological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongpeng Huang
- Experimental Pharmacology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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16
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Kishimoto TK, Fournier M, Michaud A, Rizzo G, Roy C, Capela T, Nukolova N, Li N, Doyle L, Fu FN, VanDyke D, Traber PG, Spangler JB, Leung SS, Ilyinskii PO. Rapamycin nanoparticles increase the therapeutic window of engineered interleukin-2 and drive expansion of antigen-specific regulatory T cells for protection against autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2023; 140:103125. [PMID: 37844543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapies targeting the high affinity IL-2 receptor expressed on regulatory T cells (Tregs) have shown promising therapeutic benefit in autoimmune diseases through nonselective expansion of pre-existing Treg populations, but are potentially limited by the inability to induce antigen-specific Tregs, as well as by dose-limiting activation of effector immune cells in settings of inflammation. We recently developed biodegradable nanoparticles encapsulating rapamycin, called ImmTOR, which induce selective immune tolerance to co-administered antigens but do not increase total Treg numbers. Here we demonstrate that the combination of ImmTOR and an engineered Treg-selective IL-2 variant (termed IL-2 mutein) increases the number and durability of total Tregs, as well as inducing a profound synergistic increase in antigen-specific Tregs when combined with a target antigen. We demonstrate that the combination of ImmTOR and an IL-2 mutein leads to durable inhibition of antibody responses to co-administered AAV gene therapy capsid, even at sub-optimal doses of ImmTOR, and provides protection in autoimmune models of type 1 diabetes and primary biliary cholangitis. Importantly, ImmTOR also increases the therapeutic window of engineered IL-2 molecules by mitigating effector immune cell expansion and preventing exacerbation of disease in a model of graft-versus-host-disease. At the same time, IL-2 mutein shows potential for dose-sparing of ImmTOR. Overall, these results establish that the combination of ImmTOR and an IL-2 mutein show synergistic benefit on both safety and efficacy to provide durable antigen-specific immune tolerance to mitigate drug immunogenicity and to treat autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gina Rizzo
- Selecta Biosciences, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ning Li
- Selecta Biosciences, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA
| | - Liam Doyle
- Selecta Biosciences, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA
| | - Fen-Ni Fu
- Selecta Biosciences, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA
| | - Derek VanDyke
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | | | - Jamie B Spangler
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Bloomberg∼Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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17
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Lykhopiy V, Malviya V, Humblet-Baron S, Schlenner SM. "IL-2 immunotherapy for targeting regulatory T cells in autoimmunity". Genes Immun 2023; 24:248-262. [PMID: 37741949 PMCID: PMC10575774 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-023-00221-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [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: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) are indispensable for immune homoeostasis and for the prevention of autoimmune diseases. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) signalling is critical in all aspects of Treg biology. Consequences of defective IL-2 signalling are insufficient numbers or dysfunction of Treg and hence autoimmune disorders in human and mouse. The restoration and maintenance of immune homoeostasis remain central therapeutic aims in the field of autoimmunity. Historically, broadly immunosuppressive drugs with serious side-effects have been used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases or prevention of organ-transplant rejection. More recently, ex vivo expanded or in vivo stimulated Treg have been shown to induce effective tolerance in clinical trials supporting the clinical benefit of targeting natural immunosuppressive mechanisms. Given the central role of exogenous IL-2 in Treg homoeostasis, a new and promising focus in drug development are IL-2-based approaches for in vivo targeted expansion of Treg or for enhancement of their suppressive activity. In this review, we summarise the role of IL-2 in Treg biology and consequences of dysfunctional IL-2 signalling pathways. We then examine evidence of efficacy of IL-2-based biological drugs targeting Treg with specific focus on therapeutic candidates in clinical trials and discuss their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lykhopiy
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- argenx BV, Industriepark Zwijnaarde 7, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vanshika Malviya
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stephanie Humblet-Baron
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Susan M Schlenner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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18
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Leonard WJ, Lin JX. Strategies to therapeutically modulate cytokine action. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:827-854. [PMID: 37542128 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00746-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines are secreted or membrane-presented molecules that mediate broad cellular functions, including development, differentiation, growth and survival. Accordingly, the regulation of cytokine activity is extraordinarily important both physiologically and pathologically. Cytokine and/or cytokine receptor engineering is being widely investigated to safely and effectively modulate cytokine activity for therapeutic benefit. IL-2 in particular has been extensively engineered, to create IL-2 variants that differentially exhibit activities on regulatory T cells to potentially treat autoimmune disease versus effector T cells to augment antitumour effects. Additionally, engineering approaches are being applied to many other cytokines such as IL-10, interferons and IL-1 family cytokines, given their immunosuppressive and/or antiviral and anticancer effects. In modulating the actions of cytokines, the strategies used have been broad, including altering affinities of cytokines for their receptors, prolonging cytokine half-lives in vivo and fine-tuning cytokine actions. The field is rapidly expanding, with extensive efforts to create improved therapeutics for a range of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren J Leonard
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and the Immunology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Jian-Xin Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and the Immunology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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19
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Ma S, So M, Ghelani A, Srivas R, Sahoo A, Hall R, Liu W, Wu H, Yu S, Lu S, Song E, Cariaga T, Soto M, Zhou H, Li CM, Chaudhry A, Luo X, Sohn SJ. Attenuated IL-2 muteins leverage the TCR signal to enhance regulatory T cell homeostasis and response in vivo. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1257652. [PMID: 37809101 PMCID: PMC10556740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1257652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2), along with T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling, are required to control regulatory T cell (Treg) homeostasis and function in vivo. Due to the heightened sensitivity to IL-2, Tregs retain the ability to respond to low-dose or attenuated forms of IL-2, as currently being developed for clinical use to treat inflammatory diseases. While attenuated IL-2 increases Treg selectivity, the question remains as to whether a weakened IL-2 signal sufficiently enhances Treg suppressive function(s) toward disease modification. To understand this question, we characterized the in vivo activity and transcriptomic profiles of two different attenuated IL-2 muteins in comparison with wildtype (WT) IL-2. Our study showed that, in addition to favoring Tregs, the attenuated muteins induced disproportionately robust effects on Treg activation and conversion to effector Treg (eTreg) phenotype. Our data furthermore suggested that Tregs activated by attenuated IL-2 muteins showed reduced dependence on TCR signal, at least in part due to the enhanced ability of IL-2 muteins to amplify the TCR signal in vivo. These results point to a new paradigm wherein IL-2 influences Tregs' sensitivity to antigenic signal, and that the combination effect may be leveraged for therapeutic use of attenuated IL-2 muteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shining Ma
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Michelle So
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Aazam Ghelani
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Rohith Srivas
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Anupama Sahoo
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Robyn Hall
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Wenjun Liu
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Hao Wu
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sherman Yu
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Shiping Lu
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Elly Song
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Taryn Cariaga
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marcus Soto
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, United States
| | - Hong Zhou
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Chi-Ming Li
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Xin Luo
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sue J. Sohn
- Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
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20
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Bieber T. Disease modification in inflammatory skin disorders: opportunities and challenges. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:662-680. [PMID: 37443275 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00735-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Progress in understanding of the mechanisms underlying chronic inflammatory skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris, has led to new treatment options with the primary goal of alleviating symptoms. In addition, this knowledge has the potential to inform on new strategies aimed at inducing deep and therapy-free remission, that is, disease modification, potentially impacting on associated comorbidities. However, to reach this goal, key areas require further exploration, including the definitions of disease modification and disease activity index, further understanding of disease mechanisms and systemic spillover effects, potential windows of opportunity, biomarkers for patient stratification and successful intervention, as well as appropriate study design. This Perspective article assesses the opportunities and challenges in the discovery and development of disease-modifying therapies for chronic inflammatory skin disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bieber
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, Bonn, Germany.
- Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland.
- Davos Biosciences, Davos, Switzerland.
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21
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Peng Y, Tao Y, Zhang Y, Wang J, Yang J, Wang Y. CD25: A potential tumor therapeutic target. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:1290-1303. [PMID: 36082452 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
CD25 is the alpha-chain of the heterotrimer IL-2 receptor. CD25 is expressed on the surface of both immune and non-immune cells with different frequencies. For cancers, CD25 is expressed at high levels in many types of hematological malignancies, but at low levels in most solid tumors. CD25 is also highly expressed in activated circulating immune cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Infiltration of Tregs in the tumor microenvironment can lead to an imbalanced ratio of effector T cells (Teffs) and Tregs, which is associated with the progression of cancers. A rescued Teff/Treg cell ratio indicates an efficient anti-tumor response to immunotherapy. CD25 as a potential target for the depletion of Tregs is critical in developing new immunotherapeutic strategies. Few articles have summarized the relationships between CD25 and tumors, or the recent progress of drugs targeting CD25. In this paper, we will discuss the structures of IL-2 and IL-2R, the biological function of CD25 and its important role in tumor therapy. In addition, the latest research on drugs targeting CD25 has been summarized, providing guidance for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease- related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China-California Research Center for Predictive Intervention Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiran Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease- related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,West China-California Research Center for Predictive Intervention Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease- related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jinliang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease- related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease- related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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22
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McCallion O, Bilici M, Hester J, Issa F. Regulatory T-cell therapy approaches. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 211:96-107. [PMID: 35960852 PMCID: PMC10019137 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) have enormous therapeutic potential to treat a variety of immunopathologies characterized by aberrant immune activation. Adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded autologous Tregs continues to progress through mid- to late-phase clinical trials in several disease spaces and has generated promising preliminary safety and efficacy signals to date. However, the practicalities of this strategy outside of the clinical trial setting remain challenging. Here, we review the current landscape of regulatory T-cell therapy, considering emergent approaches and technologies presenting novel ways to engage Tregs, and reflect on the progress necessary to deliver their therapeutic potential to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver McCallion
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Merve Bilici
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Joanna Hester
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Fadi Issa
- Correspondence. Fadi Issa, Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
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23
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Holz E, Darwish M, Tesar DB, Shatz-Binder W. A Review of Protein- and Peptide-Based Chemical Conjugates: Past, Present, and Future. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020600. [PMID: 36839922 PMCID: PMC9959917 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the complexity of molecular entities being advanced for therapeutic purposes has continued to evolve. A main propellent fueling innovation is the perpetual mandate within the pharmaceutical industry to meet the needs of novel disease areas and/or delivery challenges. As new mechanisms of action are uncovered, and as our understanding of existing mechanisms grows, the properties that are required and/or leveraged to enable therapeutic development continue to expand. One rapidly evolving area of interest is that of chemically enhanced peptide and protein therapeutics. While a variety of conjugate molecules such as antibody-drug conjugates, peptide/protein-PEG conjugates, and protein conjugate vaccines are already well established, others, such as antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates and peptide/protein conjugates using non-PEG polymers, are newer to clinical development. This review will evaluate the current development landscape of protein-based chemical conjugates with special attention to considerations such as modulation of pharmacokinetics, safety/tolerability, and entry into difficult to access targets, as well as bioavailability. Furthermore, for the purpose of this review, the types of molecules discussed are divided into two categories: (1) therapeutics that are enhanced by protein or peptide bioconjugation, and (2) protein and peptide therapeutics that require chemical modifications. Overall, the breadth of novel peptide- or protein-based therapeutics moving through the pipeline each year supports a path forward for the pursuit of even more complex therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Holz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Martine Darwish
- Department of Protein Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Devin B. Tesar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Whitney Shatz-Binder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
- Department of Protein Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
- Correspondence:
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24
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Deckers J, Anbergen T, Hokke AM, de Dreu A, Schrijver DP, de Bruin K, Toner YC, Beldman TJ, Spangler JB, de Greef TFA, Grisoni F, van der Meel R, Joosten LAB, Merkx M, Netea MG, Mulder WJM. Engineering cytokine therapeutics. NATURE REVIEWS BIOENGINEERING 2023; 1:286-303. [PMID: 37064653 PMCID: PMC9933837 DOI: 10.1038/s44222-023-00030-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines have pivotal roles in immunity, making them attractive as therapeutics for a variety of immune-related disorders. However, the widespread clinical use of cytokines has been limited by their short blood half-lives and severe side effects caused by low specificity and unfavourable biodistribution. Innovations in bioengineering have aided in advancing our knowledge of cytokine biology and yielded new technologies for cytokine engineering. In this Review, we discuss how the development of bioanalytical methods, such as sequencing and high-resolution imaging combined with genetic techniques, have facilitated a better understanding of cytokine biology. We then present an overview of therapeutics arising from cytokine re-engineering, targeting and delivery, mRNA therapeutics and cell therapy. We also highlight the application of these strategies to adjust the immunological imbalance in different immune-mediated disorders, including cancer, infection and autoimmune diseases. Finally, we look ahead to the hurdles that must be overcome before cytokine therapeutics can live up to their full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen Deckers
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tom Anbergen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Ayla M. Hokke
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Anne de Dreu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - David P. Schrijver
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Koen de Bruin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Yohana C. Toner
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Thijs J. Beldman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jamie B. Spangler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Tom F. A. de Greef
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Centre for Living Technologies, Alliance Eindhoven University of Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University and University Medical Center Utrecht (EWUU), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Francesca Grisoni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Centre for Living Technologies, Alliance Eindhoven University of Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University and University Medical Center Utrecht (EWUU), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Present Address: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Leo A. B. Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Department of Medical Genetics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maarten Merkx
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Present Address: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Mihai G. Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Department for Genomics and Immunoregulation, Life and Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Willem J. M. Mulder
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Present Address: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
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25
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VanDyke D, Iglesias M, Tomala J, Young A, Smith J, Perry JA, Gebara E, Cross AR, Cheung LS, Dykema AG, Orcutt-Jahns BT, Henclová T, Golias J, Balolong J, Tomasovic LM, Funda D, Meyer AS, Pardoll DM, Hester J, Issa F, Hunter CA, Anderson MS, Bluestone JA, Raimondi G, Spangler JB. Engineered human cytokine/antibody fusion proteins expand regulatory T cells and confer autoimmune disease protection. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111478. [PMID: 36261022 PMCID: PMC9631798 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-dose human interleukin-2 (hIL-2) treatment is used clinically to treat autoimmune disorders due to the cytokine's preferential expansion of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs). However, off-target immune cell activation and short serum half-life limit the clinical potential of IL-2 treatment. Recent work showed that complexes comprising hIL-2 and the anti-hIL-2 antibody F5111 overcome these limitations by preferentially stimulating Tregs over immune effector cells. Although promising, therapeutic translation of this approach is complicated by the need to optimize dosing ratios and by the instability of the cytokine/antibody complex. We leverage structural insights to engineer a single-chain hIL-2/F5111 antibody fusion protein, termed F5111 immunocytokine (IC), which potently and selectively activates and expands Tregs. F5111 IC confers protection in mouse models of colitis and checkpoint inhibitor-induced diabetes mellitus. These results provide a roadmap for IC design and establish a Treg-biased immunotherapy that could be clinically translated for autoimmune disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek VanDyke
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Marcos Iglesias
- Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jakub Tomala
- Institute of Biotechnology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Arabella Young
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Sean N. Parker Autoimmune Research Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Jennifer Smith
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Joseph A Perry
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Edward Gebara
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amy R Cross
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Laurene S Cheung
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Arbor G Dykema
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Brian T Orcutt-Jahns
- Department of Bioengineering, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tereza Henclová
- Institute of Biotechnology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Golias
- Institute of Microbiology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague 142 20, Czech Republic
| | - Jared Balolong
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Luke M Tomasovic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - David Funda
- Institute of Microbiology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague 142 20, Czech Republic
| | - Aaron S Meyer
- Department of Bioengineering, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Drew M Pardoll
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Joanna Hester
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Fadi Issa
- Translational Research Immunology Group, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bluestone
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Sean N. Parker Autoimmune Research Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Sonoma Biotherapeutics, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Giorgio Raimondi
- Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jamie B Spangler
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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26
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Hernandez R, Põder J, LaPorte KM, Malek TR. Engineering IL-2 for immunotherapy of autoimmunity and cancer. Nat Rev Immunol 2022; 22:614-628. [PMID: 35217787 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00680-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical studies of the T cell growth factor activity of IL-2 resulted in this cytokine becoming the first immunotherapy to be approved nearly 30 years ago by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of cancer. Since then, we have learnt the important role of IL-2 in regulating tolerance through regulatory T cells (Treg cells) besides promoting immunity through its action on effector T cells and memory T cells. Another pivotal event in the history of IL-2 research was solving the crystal structure of IL-2 bound to its tripartite receptor, which spurred the development of cell type-selective engineered IL-2 products. These new IL-2 analogues target Treg cells to counteract the dysregulated immune system in the context of autoimmunity and inflammatory disorders or target effector T cells, memory T cells and natural killer cells to enhance their antitumour responses. IL-2 biologics have proven to be effective in preclinical studies and clinical assessment of some is now underway. These studies will soon reveal whether engineered IL-2 biologics are truly capable of harnessing the IL-2-IL-2 receptor pathway as effective monotherapies or combination therapies for autoimmunity and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosmely Hernandez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Janika Põder
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kathryn M LaPorte
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Thomas R Malek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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27
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Yuan Y, Kolios AGA, Liu Y, Zhang B, Li H, Tsokos GC, Zhang X. Therapeutic potential of interleukin-2 in autoimmune diseases. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:596-612. [PMID: 35624009 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by dysregulation and aberrant activation of cells in the immune system. Therefore, restoration of the immune balance represents a promising therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) can promote the expansion and differentiation of different immune cell subsets dose-dependently. At high doses, IL-2 can promote the differentiation and expansion of effector and memory T cells, whereas at low doses, IL-2 can promote the differentiation, survival, and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells, a CD4+ T cell subset that is essential for the maintenance of immune homeostasis and immune tolerance. Therefore, IL-2 exerts immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects in autoimmune diseases. The immunoregulatory role of low-dose IL-2 has sparked excitement for the therapeutic exploration of modulating the IL-2-Treg axis in the context of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the therapeutic potential of IL-2 or IL-2-derived molecules in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeshuang Yuan
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Antonios G A Kolios
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yudong Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China.
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28
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Fanton C, Furie R, Chindalore V, Levin R, Diab I, Dixit N, Haglund C, Gibbons J, Hanan N, Dickerson D, Zalevsky J, Kotzin BL. Selective expansion of regulatory T cells by NKTR-358 in healthy volunteers and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. J Transl Autoimmun 2022; 5:100152. [PMID: 35517914 PMCID: PMC9062472 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2022.100152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Robert Levin
- Clinical Research of West Florida, Clearwater, FL, USA
| | - Isam Diab
- Paramount Medical Research, Middleburg Heights, OH, USA
| | - Neha Dixit
- Nektar Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Brian L. Kotzin
- Nektar Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Corresponding author.
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