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Nikrad JA, Galvin RT, Sheehy MM, Novacek EL, Jacobsen KL, Corbière SM, Beckmann PJ, Jubenville TA, Yamamoto M, Largaespada DA. Conditionally replicative adenovirus as a therapy for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200783. [PMID: 38595983 PMCID: PMC10959710 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic adenoviruses (Ads) stand out as a promising strategy for the targeted infection and lysis of tumor cells, with well-established clinical utility across various malignancies. This study delves into the therapeutic potential of oncolytic Ads in the context of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). Specifically, we evaluate conditionally replicative adenoviruses (CRAds) driven by the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) promoter, as selective agents against MPNSTs, demonstrating their preferential targeting of MPNST cells compared with non-malignant Schwann cell control. COX2-driven CRAds, particularly those with modified fiber-knobs exhibit superior binding affinity toward MPNST cells and demonstrate efficient and preferential replication and lysis of MPNST cells, with minimal impact on non-malignant control cells. In vivo experiments involving intratumoral CRAd injections in immunocompromised mice with human MPNST xenografts significantly extend survival and reduce tumor growth rate compared with controls. Moreover, in immunocompetent mouse models with MPNST-like allografts, CRAd injections induce a robust infiltration of CD8+ T cells into the tumor microenvironment (TME), indicating the potential to promote a pro-inflammatory response. These findings underscore oncolytic Ads as promising, selective, and minimally toxic agents for MPNST therapy, warranting further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A. Nikrad
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Robert T. Galvin
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mackenzie M. Sheehy
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ethan L. Novacek
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kari L. Jacobsen
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 516 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Stanislas M.A.S. Corbière
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, 2950 Chemin de Polytechnique Marcelle-Coutu Pavilion, Montréal, QC H3T1J4, Canada
| | - Pauline J. Beckmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Tyler A. Jubenville
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Masato Yamamoto
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 516 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David A. Largaespada
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 484, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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2
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Somatilaka BN, Madana L, Sadek A, Chen Z, Chandrasekaran S, McKay RM, Le LQ. STING activation reprograms the microenvironment to sensitize NF1-related malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors for immunotherapy. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e176748. [PMID: 38502231 PMCID: PMC11093615 DOI: 10.1172/jci176748] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is caused by mutations in the NF1 gene that encodes neurofibromin, a RAS GTPase-activating protein. Inactivating NF1 mutations cause hyperactivation of RAS-mediated signaling, resulting in the development of multiple neoplasms, including malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). MPNSTs are an aggressive tumor and the main cause of mortality in patients with NF1. MPNSTs are difficult to resect and refractory to chemo- and radiotherapy, and no molecular therapies currently exist. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is an approach to treat inoperable, undruggable cancers like MPNST, but successful outcomes require an immune cell-rich tumor microenvironment. While MPNSTs are noninflamed "cold" tumors, here, we converted MPNSTs into T cell-inflamed "hot" tumors by activating stimulator of IFN genes (STING) signaling. Mouse genetic and human xenograft MPNST models treated with a STING agonist plus ICB exhibited growth delay via increased apoptotic cell death. This strategy offers a potential treatment regimen for MPNSTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sanjay Chandrasekaran
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology
| | | | - Lu Q. Le
- Department of Dermatology
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
- University of Texas Southwestern Comprehensive Neurofibromatosis Clinic
- Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, and
- O’Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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3
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White EE, Rhodes SD. The NF1+/- Immune Microenvironment: Dueling Roles in Neurofibroma Development and Malignant Transformation. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:994. [PMID: 38473354 PMCID: PMC10930863 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common genetic disorder resulting in the development of both benign and malignant tumors of the peripheral nervous system. NF1 is caused by germline pathogenic variants or deletions of the NF1 tumor suppressor gene, which encodes the protein neurofibromin that functions as negative regulator of p21 RAS. Loss of NF1 heterozygosity in Schwann cells (SCs), the cells of origin for these nerve sheath-derived tumors, leads to the formation of plexiform neurofibromas (PNF)-benign yet complex neoplasms involving multiple nerve fascicles and comprised of a myriad of infiltrating stromal and immune cells. PNF development and progression are shaped by dynamic interactions between SCs and immune cells, including mast cells, macrophages, and T cells. In this review, we explore the current state of the field and critical knowledge gaps regarding the role of NF1(Nf1) haploinsufficiency on immune cell function, as well as the putative impact of Schwann cell lineage states on immune cell recruitment and function within the tumor field. Furthermore, we review emerging evidence suggesting a dueling role of Nf1+/- immune cells along the neurofibroma to MPNST continuum, on one hand propitiating PNF initiation, while on the other, potentially impeding the malignant transformation of plexiform and atypical neurofibroma precursor lesions. Finally, we underscore the potential implications of these discoveries and advocate for further research directed at illuminating the contributions of various immune cells subsets in discrete stages of tumor initiation, progression, and malignant transformation to facilitate the discovery and translation of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to transform risk-adapted care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. White
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Steven D. Rhodes
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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4
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Paudel SN, Hutzen B, Cripe TP. The quest for effective immunotherapies against malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors: Is there hope? Mol Ther Oncolytics 2023; 30:227-237. [PMID: 37680255 PMCID: PMC10480481 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune-based therapies represent a new paradigm in the treatment of multiple cancers, where they have helped achieve durable and safe clinical responses in a growing subset of patients. While a wealth of information is available concerning the use of these agents in treating the more common malignancies, little has been reported about the use of immunotherapies against malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs), a rare form of soft tissue sarcoma that arises from the myelin sheaths that protect peripheral nerves. Surgical resection has been the mainstay of therapy in MPNSTs, but the recurrence rate is as high as 65%, and chemotherapy is generally ineffective. The immune contexture of MPNSTs, replete with macrophages and a varying degree of T cell infiltration, presents multiple opportunities to design meaningful therapeutic interventions. While preliminary results with macrophage-targeting strategies and oncolytic viruses are promising, identifying the subset of patients that respond to immune-based strategies will be a milestone. As part of our effort to help advance the use of immunotherapy for MPNSTs, here we describe recent insights regarding the immune contexture of MPNSTs, discuss emerging immune-based strategies, and provide a brief overview of potential biomarkers of response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhi N. Paudel
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Columbus, OH, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian Hutzen
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy P. Cripe
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Columbus, OH, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Ohio State University Wexner College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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5
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Wei CJ, Gu SC, Ren JY, Gu YH, Xu XW, Chou X, Lian X, Huang X, Li HZ, Gao YS, Gu B, Zan T, Wang ZC, Li QF. The impact of host immune cells on the development of neurofibromatosis type 1: The abnormal immune system provides an immune microenvironment for tumorigenesis. Neurooncol Adv 2020; 1:vdz037. [PMID: 32642666 PMCID: PMC7212924 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdz037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe immune system plays an essential role in the development of tumors, which has been demonstrated in multiple types of cancers. Consistent with this, immunotherapies with targets that disrupt these mechanisms and turn the immune system against developing cancers have been proven effective. In neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), an autosomal dominant genetic disorder, the understanding of the complex interactions of the immune system is incomplete despite the discovery of the pivotal role of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Individuals with NF1 show a loss of the NF1 gene in nonneoplastic cells, including immune cells, and the aberrant immune system exhibits intriguing interactions with NF1. This review aims to provide an update on recent studies showing the bilateral influences of NF1 mutations on immune cells and how the abnormal immune system promotes the development of NF1 and NF1-related tumors. We then discuss the immune receptors major histocompatibility complex class I and II and the PD-L1 mechanism that shield NF1 from immunosurveillance and enable the immune escape of tumor tissues. Clarification of the latest understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of the abnormal immune system on promoting the development of NF1 will indicate potential future directions for further studies and new immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Jiang Wei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shu-Chen Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie-Yi Ren
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Hui Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Wen Xu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Chou
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang Lian
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hai-Zhou Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ya-Shan Gao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Chao Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Corresponding Authors: Zhichao Wang, MD, MPH and Qing-Feng Li, MD, PhD, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, People’s Republic of China (; )
| | - Qing-Feng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Corresponding Authors: Zhichao Wang, MD, MPH and Qing-Feng Li, MD, PhD, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, People’s Republic of China (; )
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6
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Characterizing the immune microenvironment of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor by PD-L1 expression and presence of CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes. Oncotarget 2018; 7:64300-64308. [PMID: 27588404 PMCID: PMC5325443 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is an aggressive sarcoma with few treatment options. Tumor immune state has not been characterized in MPNST, and is important in determining response to immune checkpoint blockade. Our aim was to evaluate the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), and presence of CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in MPNST, and correlate these findings with clinical behavior and outcome. Results PD-L1 staining of at least 1% was seen in 0/20 nerves, 2/68 benign lesions and 9/53 MPNST. Two of 68 benign lesions and 7/53 (13%) MPNST had at least 5% PD-L1 staining. CD8 staining of at least 5% was seen in 1/20 (5%) nerves, 45/68 (66%) benign lesions and 30/53 (57%) MPNST. PD-L1 was statistically more prevalent in MPNST than both nerves and benign lesions (p=0.049 and p=0.008, respectively). Expression of PD-1 was absent in all tissue specimens. There was no correlation of PD-L1 or CD8 expression with disease state (primary versus metastatic) or patient survival. Methods A comprehensive PNST tissue microarray was created from 141 surgical specimens including primary, recurrent, and metastatic MPNST (n=53), neurofibromas (n=57), schwannoma (n=11), and normal nerve (n=20). Cores were stained in triplicate for PD-L1, PD-1, and CD8, and expression compared between tumor types. These data were then examined for survival correlates in 35 patients with primary MPNST. Conclusions MPNST is characterized by low PD-L1 and absent PD-1 expression with significant CD8+ TIL presence. MPNST immune microenvironment does not correlate with patient outcome.
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7
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Liu J, Gallo RM, Khan MA, Renukaradhya GJ, Brutkiewicz RR. Neurofibromin 1 Impairs Natural Killer T-Cell-Dependent Antitumor Immunity against a T-Cell Lymphoma. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1901. [PMID: 29354122 PMCID: PMC5760513 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromin 1 (NF1) is a tumor suppressor gene encoding a Ras GTPase that negatively regulates Ras signaling pathways. Mutations in NF1 are linked to neurofibromatosis type 1, juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia and Watson syndrome. In terms of antitumor immunity, CD1d-dependent natural killer T (NKT) cells play an important role in the innate antitumor immune response. Generally, Type-I NKT cells protect (and Type-II NKT cells impair) host antitumor immunity. We have previously shown that CD1d-mediated antigen presentation to NKT cells is regulated by cell signaling pathways. To study whether a haploinsufficiency in NF1 would affect CD1d-dependent activation of NKT cells, we analyzed the NKT-cell population as well as the functional expression of CD1d in Nf1+/− mice. Nf1+/− mice were found to have similar levels of NKT cells as wildtype (WT) littermates. Interestingly, however, reduced CD1d expression was observed in Nf1+/− mice compared with their WT littermates. When inoculated with a T-cell lymphoma in vivo, Nf1+/− mice survived longer than their WT littermates. Furthermore, blocking CD1d in vivo significantly enhanced antitumor activity in WT, but not in Nf1+/− mice. In contrast, a deficiency in Type-I NKT cells increased antitumor activity in Nf1+/− mice, but not in WT littermates. Therefore, these data suggest that normal NF1 expression impairs CD1d-mediated NKT-cell activation and antitumor activity against a T-cell lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Richard M Gallo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Masood A Khan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.,College of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gourapura J Renukaradhya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.,Food Animal Health Research Program (FAHRP), Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC), Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Randy R Brutkiewicz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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8
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Hayes DA, Kunde DA, Taylor RL, Pyecroft SB, Sohal SS, Snow ET. ERBB3: A potential serum biomarker for early detection and therapeutic target for devil facial tumour 1 (DFT1). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177919. [PMID: 28591206 PMCID: PMC5462353 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Devil Facial Tumour 1 (DFT1) is one of two transmissible neoplasms of Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) predominantly affecting their facial regions. DFT1's cellular origin is that of Schwann cell lineage where lesions are evident macroscopically late in the disease. Conversely, the pre-clinical timeframe from cellular transmission to appearance of DFT1 remains uncertain demonstrating the importance of an effective pre-clinical biomarker. We show that ERBB3, a marker expressed normally by the developing neural crest and Schwann cells, is immunohistohemically expressed by DFT1, therefore the potential of ERBB3 as a biomarker was explored. Under the hypothesis that serum ERBB3 levels may increase as DFT1 invades local and distant tissues our pilot study determined serum ERBB3 levels in normal Tasmanian devils and Tasmanian devils with DFT1. Compared to the baseline serum ERBB3 levels in unaffected Tasmanian devils, Tasmanian devils with DFT1 showed significant elevation of serum ERBB3 levels. Interestingly Tasmanian devils with cutaneous lymphoma (CL) also showed elevation of serum ERBB3 levels when compared to the baseline serum levels of Tasmanian devils without DFT1. Thus, elevated serum ERBB3 levels in otherwise healthy looking devils could predict possible DFT1 or CL in captive or wild devil populations and would have implications on the management, welfare and survival of Tasmanian devils. ERBB3 is also a therapeutic target and therefore the potential exists to consider modes of administration that may eradicate DFT1 from the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dane A. Hayes
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks Water and Environment, Animal Health Laboratory, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Dale A. Kunde
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Robyn L. Taylor
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks Water and Environment, Resource Management and Conservation, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Stephen B. Pyecroft
- School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia
| | - Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Elizabeth T. Snow
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
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9
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Haworth KB, Arnold MA, Pierson CR, Choi K, Yeager ND, Ratner N, Roberts RD, Finlay JL, Cripe TP. Immune profiling of NF1-associated tumors reveals histologic subtype distinctions and heterogeneity: implications for immunotherapy. Oncotarget 2017; 8:82037-82048. [PMID: 29137242 PMCID: PMC5669868 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful treatment of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated tumors poses a significant clinical challenge. While the primary underlying genetic defect driving RAS signaling is well described, recent evidence suggests immune dysfunction contributes to tumor pathogenesis and malignant transformation. As immunologic characterizations, prognostic and predictive of immunotherapeutic clinical response in other cancers, are not fully described for benign and malignant NF1-related tumors, we sought to define their immunologic profiles. We determined the expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A/-B/-C, β-2-microglobulin (B2M), and T cell inhibitory ligands PD-L1 and CTLA-4 by microarray gene analysis and flow cytometry. We examined HLA-A/-B/-C, B2M, and PD-L1 expression on thirty-six NF1-associated tumor samples by immunohistochemistry, and correlated these with tumoral CD4+, CD8+, FOXP3+, CD56+, and CD45RO+ lymphocytic infiltrates. We evaluated several tumors from a single patient, observing trends of increasing immunogenicity over time, even with disease progression. We observed similarly immunogenic profiles for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) and nodular and plexiform neurofibromas, contrasting with diffuse neurofibromas. These studies suggest that while immunotherapies may offer some benefit for MPNST and nodular and plexiform neurofibromas, tumor heterogeneity might pose a significant clinical challenge to this novel therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie B Haworth
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael A Arnold
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Christopher R Pierson
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Division of Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kwangmin Choi
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Nicholas D Yeager
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Ryan D Roberts
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jonathan L Finlay
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Timothy P Cripe
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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10
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Torres KCL, Lima G, Simões E Silva AC, Lubambo I, Rodrigues LO, Rodrigues L, Silveira KD, Vieira ÉLM, Romano-Silva MA, Miranda DM. Immune markers in the RASopathy neurofibromatosis type 1. J Neuroimmunol 2016; 295-296:122-9. [PMID: 27235357 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder with an early mortality determined mostly by malignancy. Little is known about the immunosurveillance factors in NF1 patients. In this study we evaluated inflammatory markers and their cellular sources in NF1 patients to try understanding the relation of immune factors and the tumorigenesis that characterizes the disease. Using flow cytometry and ELISA, we assayed cytokines, co-stimulatory molecules, the functional state of circulating blood cells and cytokine plasma levels in a case-control transversal study. The frequency of CD4+ T cells seems reduced. In addition, a shift towards an anti-inflammatory profile was observed in cells expressing cytokines, except for a small subpopulation of CD8+ T cells that displayed an increased frequency of cells expressing the pro-inflammatory cytokine Tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), while plasma soluble levels of Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were increased in NF1 patients. Knowledge of the regulation of NF1 and the role of TGF-beta signaling pathway in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor pathogenesis might shed light on molecular carcinogenesis mechanisms and lead to putative interventions both in prevention and treatment of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen C L Torres
- INCT de Medicina Molecular/Laboratório de Neurociência, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Giselle Lima
- INCT de Medicina Molecular/Laboratório de Neurociência, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana C Simões E Silva
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Isabela Lubambo
- INCT de Medicina Molecular/Laboratório de Neurociência, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiz O Rodrigues
- Centro de Referência em Neurofibromatoses do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiza Rodrigues
- Centro de Referência em Neurofibromatoses do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Kátia D Silveira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Érica L M Vieira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marco A Romano-Silva
- INCT de Medicina Molecular/Laboratório de Neurociência, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Débora M Miranda
- INCT de Medicina Molecular/Laboratório de Neurociência, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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Grueber CE, Peel E, Gooley R, Belov K. Genomic insights into a contagious cancer in Tasmanian devils. Trends Genet 2015; 31:528-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Woods GM, Howson LJ, Brown GK, Tovar C, Kreiss A, Corcoran LM, Lyons AB. Immunology of a Transmissible Cancer Spreading among Tasmanian Devils. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 195:23-9. [PMID: 26092814 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1500131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Devil facial tumor disease (DFTD) is a transmissible cancer that has killed most of the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrissii) population. Since the first case appeared in the mid-1990s, it has spread relentlessly across the Tasmanian devil's geographic range. As Tasmanian devils only exist in Tasmania, Australia, DFTD has the potential to cause extinction of this species. The origin of DFTD was a Schwann cell from a female devil. The disease is transmitted when devils bite each other around the facial areas, a behavior synonymous with this species. Every devil that is 'infected' with DFTD dies from the cancer. Once the DFTD cells have been transmitted, they appear to develop into a cancer without inducing an immune response. The DFTD cancer cells avoid allogeneic recognition because they do not express MHC class I molecules on the cell surface. A reduced genetic diversity and the production of immunosuppressive cytokines may also contribute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Woods
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; and
| | - Lauren J Howson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Gabriella K Brown
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Cesar Tovar
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Alexandre Kreiss
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Lynn M Corcoran
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - A Bruce Lyons
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; and
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Tzekova N, Heinen A, Küry P. Molecules involved in the crosstalk between immune- and peripheral nerve Schwann cells. J Clin Immunol 2014; 34 Suppl 1:S86-104. [PMID: 24740512 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-014-0015-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Schwann cells are the myelinating glial cells of the peripheral nervous system and establish myelin sheaths on large caliber axons in order to accelerate their electrical signal propagation. Apart from this well described function, these cells revealed to exhibit a high degree of differentiation plasticity as they were shown to re- and dedifferentiate upon injury and disease as well as to actively participate in regenerative- and inflammatory processes. This review focuses on the crosstalk between glial- and immune cells observed in many peripheral nerve pathologies and summarizes functional evidences of molecules, regulators and factors involved in this process. We summarize data on Schwann cell's role presenting antigens, on interactions with the complement system, on Schwann cell surface molecules/receptors and on secreted factors involved in immune cell interactions or para-/autocrine signaling events, thus strengthening the view for a broader (patho) physiological role of this cell lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevena Tzekova
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Moorenstrasse 5, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Bender HS, Marshall Graves JA, Deakin JE. Pathogenesis and molecular biology of a transmissible tumor in the Tasmanian devil. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2013; 2:165-87. [PMID: 25384139 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-022513-114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of a fatal transmissible cancer known as devil facial tumor disease (DFTD) is threatening the iconic Tasmanian devil with extinction in the wild within the next few decades. Since the first report of the disease in 1996, DFTD has spread to over 85% of the devils' distribution and dramatically reduced devil numbers. Research into DFTD has focused on gaining a deeper understanding of the disease on multiple levels, including an accurate assessment of the tissue origin of the tumor, elucidation of how the tumor evades immune detection, and determination of how the tumor is transmitted between individuals and how it is evolving as it spreads through the population. Knowledge gained from these studies has important implications for DFTD management and devil conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah S Bender
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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Skaribas I, Calvillo O, Delikanaki-Skaribas E. Occipital peripheral nerve stimulation in the management of chronic intractable occipital neuralgia in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2011; 5:174. [PMID: 21569290 PMCID: PMC3103445 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-5-174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2009] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Occipital peripheral nerve stimulation is an interventional pain management therapy that provides beneficial results in the treatment of refractory chronic occipital neuralgia. Herein we present a first-of-its-kind case study of a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 and bilateral occipital neuralgia treated with occipital peripheral nerve stimulation. Case presentation A 42-year-old Caucasian woman presented with bilateral occipital neuralgia refractory to various conventional treatments, and she was referred for possible treatment with occipital peripheral nerve stimulation. She was found to be a suitable candidate for the procedure, and she underwent implantation of two octapolar stimulating leads and a rechargeable, programmable, implantable generator. The intensity, severity, and frequency of her symptoms resolved by more than 80%, but an infection developed at the implantation site two months after the procedure that required explantation and reimplantation of new stimulating leads three months later. To date she continues to experience symptom resolution of more than 60%. Conclusion These results demonstrate the significance of peripheral nerve stimulation in the management of refractory occipital neuralgias in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 and the possible role of neurofibromata in the development of occipital neuralgia in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Skaribas
- Greater Houston Pain Consultants, Greater Houston Anesthesiology, 2411 Fountain View Drive #200, Houston, TX 77057-4832, USA.
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Abstract
✓Discovery that the Schwann cell is the primary cell type responsible for both the neurofibroma as well as the schwannoma has proven to represent a crucial milestone in understanding the pathogenesis of peripheral nerve tumor development. This information and related findings have served as a nidus for research aimed at more fully characterizing this family of conditions. Recent discoveries in the laboratory have clarified an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of benign peripheral nerve tumors. Similarly, the mechanisms whereby idiopathic and syndromic (NF1- andNF2-associated) nerve sheath tumors progress to malignancy are being elucidated. This detailed understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of peripheral nerve tumors provides the information necessary to create a new generation of therapies tailored specifically to the prevention, cessation, or reversal of pathological conditions at the fundamental level of dysfunction. The authors review the data that have helped to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of this category of conditions, explore the current progress toward exploitation of these findings, and discuss potential therapeutic avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Riley
- Department of Neurosciences and the Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA
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Abstract
When connective tissue undergoes malignant transformation, glioblastomas and sarcomas arise. However, the ancient biochemical mechanisms, which are now operational in sarcomas distorted by mutations and gene fusions in misaligned chromosomes, were originally acquired by those cells that emerged during the Cambrian explosion. Preserved throughout evolution up to the genus Homo, these mechanisms dictate the apoptosis- and senescence-resistant immortality of malignant cells. A 'retroviral paradox' distinguishes human sarcomas from those of the animal world. In contrast to the retrovirally induced sarcomatous transformation of animal (avian, murine, feline and simian) cells, human sarcomas have so far failed to yield a causative retroviral isolate. However, the proto-oncogenes/oncogenes transduced from their host cells by retroviruses of animals are the same that are active in human sarcomas. Since the encoded oncoproteins arise after birth, they are recognized frequently by the immune system of the host. Immune lymphocytes that kill autologous sarcoma cells in vitro commonly fail to do so in vivo. Sarcoma vaccines generate immune T- and natural killer cell reactions; even when vaccinated patients do not show a clinical response, their tumors become more sensitive to chemotherapy. The aim of this review is to lay a solid molecular biological foundation for the conclusion that targeting the sarcoma oncogenes will result in regression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Sinkovics
- Cancer Institute of St. Joseph's Hospital Affiliated with the HL Moffitt Cancer Center, The University of South Florida College of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Tampa, Florida, USA.
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