1
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Maulana TI, Teufel C, Cipriano M, Roosz J, Lazarevski L, van den Hil FE, Scheller L, Orlova V, Koch A, Hudecek M, Alb M, Loskill P. Breast cancer-on-chip for patient-specific efficacy and safety testing of CAR-T cells. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:989-1002.e9. [PMID: 38754430 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Physiologically relevant human models that recapitulate the challenges of solid tumors and the tumor microenvironment (TME) are highly desired in the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell field. We developed a breast cancer-on-chip model with an integrated endothelial barrier that enables the transmigration of perfused immune cells, their infiltration into the tumor, and concomitant monitoring of cytokine release during perfused culture over a period of up to 8 days. Here, we exemplified its use for investigating CAR-T cell efficacy and the ability to control the immune reaction with a pharmacological on/off switch. Additionally, we integrated primary breast cancer organoids to study patient-specific CAR-T cell efficacy. The modular architecture of our tumor-on-chip paves the way for studying the role of other cell types in the TME and thus provides the potential for broad application in bench-to-bedside translation as well as acceleration of the preclinical development of CAR-T cell products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengku Ibrahim Maulana
- Department of Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Teufel
- Department of Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Madalena Cipriano
- Department of Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; 3R Center Tübingen for In Vitro Models and Alternatives to Animal Testing, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia Roosz
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Lisa Lazarevski
- Department of Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Francijna E van den Hil
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Lukas Scheller
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Lehrstuhl für Zelluläre Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, 97078 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Valeria Orlova
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - André Koch
- Department of Women's Health Tübingen, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Hudecek
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Lehrstuhl für Zelluläre Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, 97078 Würzburg, Germany; Fraunhofer-Institut für Zelltherapie und Immunologie IZI, Außenstelle Würzburg Zelluläre Immuntherapie, 97082 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Alb
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Lehrstuhl für Zelluläre Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, 97078 Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Peter Loskill
- Department of Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University-Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany; 3R Center Tübingen for In Vitro Models and Alternatives to Animal Testing, 72074 Tübingen, Germany.
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2
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Totoń-Żurańska J, Mikolajczyk TP, Saju B, Guzik TJ. Vascular remodelling in cardiovascular diseases: hypertension, oxidation, and inflammation. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:817-850. [PMID: 38920058 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220797] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Optimal vascular structure and function are essential for maintaining the physiological functions of the cardiovascular system. Vascular remodelling involves changes in vessel structure, including its size, shape, cellular and molecular composition. These changes result from multiple risk factors and may be compensatory adaptations to sustain blood vessel function. They occur in diverse cardiovascular pathologies, from hypertension to heart failure and atherosclerosis. Dynamic changes in the endothelium, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, pericytes or other vascular wall cells underlie remodelling. In addition, immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes, may infiltrate vessels and initiate inflammatory signalling. They contribute to a dynamic interplay between cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, inflammation, and extracellular matrix reorganisation, all critical mechanisms of vascular remodelling. Molecular pathways underlying these processes include growth factors (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor), inflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukin-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α), reactive oxygen species, and signalling pathways, such as Rho/ROCK, MAPK, and TGF-β/Smad, related to nitric oxide and superoxide biology. MicroRNAs and long noncoding RNAs are crucial epigenetic regulators of gene expression in vascular remodelling. We evaluate these pathways for potential therapeutic targeting from a clinical translational perspective. In summary, vascular remodelling, a coordinated modification of vascular structure and function, is crucial in cardiovascular disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Totoń-Żurańska
- Center for Medical Genomics OMICRON, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz P Mikolajczyk
- Center for Medical Genomics OMICRON, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Blessy Saju
- BHF Centre for Research Excellence, Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Tomasz J Guzik
- Center for Medical Genomics OMICRON, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
- BHF Centre for Research Excellence, Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
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3
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Eichhorn JS, Petrik J. Thetumor microenvironment'sinpancreatic cancer:Effects onimmunotherapy successandnovel strategiestoovercomethehostile environment. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 259:155370. [PMID: 38815507 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a significant global health issue that poses a considerable burden on both patients and healthcare systems. Many different types of cancers exist that often require unique treatment approaches and therapies. A hallmark of tumor progression is the creation of an immunosuppressive environment, which poses complex challenges for current treatments. Amongst the most explored characteristics is a hypoxic environment, high interstitial pressure, and immunosuppressive cells and cytokines. Traditional cancer treatments involve radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures. The advent of immunotherapies was regarded as a promising approach with hopes of greatly increasing patients' survival and outcome. Although some success is seen with various immunotherapies, the vast majority of monotherapies are unsuccessful. This review examines how various aspects of the tumor microenvironment (TME) present challenges that impede the success of immunotherapies. Subsequently, we review strategies to manipulate the TME to facilitate the success of immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sören Eichhorn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Jim Petrik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada.
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4
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Thangaraj JL, Coffey M, Lopez E, Kaufman DS. Disruption of TGF-β signaling pathway is required to mediate effective killing of hepatocellular carcinoma by human iPSC-derived NK cells. Cell Stem Cell 2024:S1934-5909(24)00217-0. [PMID: 38986609 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is highly expressed in the liver tumor microenvironment and is known to inhibit immune cell activity. Here, we used human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to produce natural killer (NK) cells engineered to mediate improved anti-HCC activity. Specifically, we produced iPSC-NK cells with either knockout TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-KO) or expression of a dominant negative (DN) form of the TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2-DN) combined with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target either GPC3 or AFP. The TGFBR2-KO and TGFBR2-DN iPSC-NK cells are resistant to TGF-β inhibition and improved anti-HCC activity. However, expression of anti-HCC CARs on iPSC-NK cells did not lead to effective anti-HCC activity unless there was also inhibition of TGF-β activity. Our findings demonstrate that TGF-β signaling blockade is required for effective NK cell function against HCC and potentially other malignancies that express high levels of TGF-β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Lakshmi Thangaraj
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michael Coffey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Edith Lopez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dan S Kaufman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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5
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Srivastava S, Singh S, Singh A. Augmenting the landscape of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38912754 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2024.2372330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The inception of recombinant DNA technology and live cell genomic alteration have paved the path for the excellence of cell and gene therapies and often provided the first curative treatment for many indications. The approval of the first Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy was one of the breakthrough innovations that became the headline in 2017. Currently, the therapy is primarily restricted to a few nations, and the market is growing at a CAGR (current annual growth rate) of 11.6% (2022-2032), as opposed to the established bio-therapeutic market at a CAGR of 15.9% (2023-2030). The limited technology democratization is attributed to its autologous nature, lack of awareness, therapy inclusion criteria, high infrastructure cost, trained personnel, complex manufacturing processes, regulatory challenges, recurrence of the disease, and long-term follow-ups. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the vision and strategies focusing on the CAR T-cell therapy democratization with mitigation plans. Further, it also covers the strategies to leverage the mRNA-based CAR T platform for building an ecosystem to ensure availability, accessibility, and affordability to the community. EXPERT OPINION mRNA-guided CAR T cell therapy is a rapidly growing area wherein a collaborative approach among the stakeholders is needed for its success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanjay Singh
- mRNA Department, Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Pune, India
| | - Ajay Singh
- mRNA Department, Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Pune, India
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6
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Golo M, Newman PLH, Kempe D, Biro M. Mechanoimmunology in the solid tumor microenvironment. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1489-1502. [PMID: 38856041 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that adjoins the cancer cells within solid tumors and comprises distinct components such as extracellular matrix, stromal and immune cells, blood vessels, and an abundance of signaling molecules. In recent years, the mechanical properties of the TME have emerged as critical determinants of tumor progression and therapeutic response. Aberrant mechanical cues, including altered tissue architecture and stiffness, contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. Moreover, burgeoning immunotherapies hold great promise for harnessing the immune system to target and eliminate solid malignancies; however, their success is hindered by the hostile mechanical landscape of the TME, which can impede immune cell infiltration, function, and persistence. Consequently, understanding TME mechanoimmunology - the interplay between mechanical forces and immune cell behavior - is essential for developing effective solid cancer therapies. Here, we review the role of TME mechanics in tumor immunology, focusing on recent therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating the mechanical properties of the TME to potentiate T cell immunotherapies, and innovative assays tailored to evaluate their clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Golo
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Peter L H Newman
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Daryan Kempe
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Maté Biro
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Mikolič V, Pantović-Žalig J, Malenšek Š, Sever M, Lainšček D, Jerala R. Toll-like receptor 4 signaling activation domains promote CAR T cell function against solid tumors. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200815. [PMID: 38840781 PMCID: PMC11152746 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has emerged as a powerful therapeutic approach against a range of hematologic malignancies. While the incorporation of CD28 or 4-1BB costimulatory signaling domains into CARs revolutionized immune responses, there is an exciting prospect of further enhancing CAR functionality. Here, we investigated the design of CD19 CARs enriched with distinct Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), or Toll/IL-1 domain-containing adaptor-inducing interferon (IFN)-β (TRIF) costimulatory domains. Screening of various designs identified several candidates with no tonic activity but with increased CD19 target cell-dependent interleukin (IL)-2 production. Human T cells transduced with the selected CAR construct exhibited augmented hIL-2 and hIFN-γ induction and cytotoxicity when cocultured with CD19-positive lymphoma and solid-tumor cell lines. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis demonstrated the upregulation of some genes involved in the innate immune response and T cell activation and proliferation. In experiments on a xenogeneic solid-tumor mice model, MyD88 and TLR4 CAR T cells exhibited prolonged remission. This study demonstrates that the integration of a truncated TLR4 signaling costimulatory domain could provide immunotherapeutic potential against both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Mikolič
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jelica Pantović-Žalig
- Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Malenšek
- Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Sever
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Duško Lainšček
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Centre for Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Roman Jerala
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Centre for Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Schlegel LS, Werbrouck C, Boettcher M, Schlegel P. Universal CAR 2.0 to overcome current limitations in CAR therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383894. [PMID: 38962014 PMCID: PMC11219820 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has effectively complemented the treatment of advanced relapsed and refractory hematological cancers. The remarkable achievements of CD19- and BCMA-CAR T therapies have raised high expectations within the fields of hematology and oncology. These groundbreaking successes are propelling a collective aspiration to extend the reach of CAR therapies beyond B-lineage malignancies. Advanced CAR technologies have created a momentum to surmount the limitations of conventional CAR concepts. Most importantly, innovations that enable combinatorial targeting to address target antigen heterogeneity, using versatile adapter CAR concepts in conjunction with recent transformative next-generation CAR design, offer the promise to overcome both the bottleneck associated with CAR manufacturing and patient-individualized treatment regimens. In this comprehensive review, we delineate the fundamental prerequisites, navigate through pivotal challenges, and elucidate strategic approaches, all aimed at paving the way for the future establishment of multitargeted immunotherapies using universal CAR technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Sophie Schlegel
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Coralie Werbrouck
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Boettcher
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patrick Schlegel
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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9
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Sani F, Shojaei S, Tabatabaei SA, Khorraminejad-Shirazi M, Latifi M, Sani M, Azarpira N. CAR-T cell-derived exosomes: a new perspective for cancer therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:174. [PMID: 38886844 PMCID: PMC11184895 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03783-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell adoptive immunotherapy is a promising cancer treatment that uses genetically engineered T cells to attack tumors. However, this therapy can have some adverse effects. CAR-T cell-derived exosomes are a potential alternative to CAR-T cells that may overcome some limitations. Exosomes are small vesicles released by cells and can carry a variety of molecules, including proteins, RNA, and DNA. They play an important role in intercellular communication and can be used to deliver therapeutic agents to cancer cells. The application of CAR-T cell-derived exosomes could make CAR-T cell therapy more clinically controllable and effective. Exosomes are cell-free, which means that they are less likely to cause adverse reactions than CAR-T cells. The combination of CAR-T cells and exosomes may be a more effective way to treat cancer than either therapy alone. Exosomes can deliver therapeutic agents to cancer cells where CAR-T cells cannot reach. The appropriate application of both cellular and exosomal platforms could make CAR-T cell therapy a more practicable treatment for cancer. This combination therapy could offer a safe and effective way to treat a variety of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Sani
- Shiraz Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shabnam Shojaei
- School of Medicine, Shiraz Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadhossein Khorraminejad-Shirazi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Student research committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Mona Latifi
- Department of Physiological Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Mahsa Sani
- Shiraz Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Shiraz Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Khalili Street, P.O. Box: 7193711351, Shiraz, Iran.
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10
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Alviano AM, Biondi M, Grassenis E, Biondi A, Serafini M, Tettamanti S. Fully equipped CARs to address tumor heterogeneity, enhance safety, and improve the functionality of cellular immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1407992. [PMID: 38887285 PMCID: PMC11180895 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1407992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Although adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells has achieved unprecedented response rates in patients with certain hematological malignancies, this therapeutic modality is still far from fulfilling its remarkable potential, especially in the context of solid cancers. Antigen escape variants, off-tumor destruction of healthy tissues expressing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), poor CAR-T cell persistence, and the occurrence of functional exhaustion represent some of the most prominent hurdles that limit CAR-T cell ability to induce long-lasting remissions with a tolerable adverse effect profile. In this review, we summarize the main approaches that have been developed to face such bottlenecks, including the adapter CAR (AdCAR) system, Boolean-logic gating, epitope editing, the modulation of cell-intrinsic signaling pathways, and the incorporation of safety switches to precisely control CAR-T cell activation. We also discuss the most pressing issues pertaining to the selection of co-stimulatory domains, with a focus on strategies aimed at promoting CAR-T cell persistence and optimal antitumor functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Maria Alviano
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Biondi
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Erica Grassenis
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Center and Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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11
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Kowalewski A, Borowczak J, Maniewski M, Gostomczyk K, Grzanka D, Szylberg Ł. Targeting apoptosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116805. [PMID: 38781868 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most prevalent subtype of renal cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all renal cell cancers. Due to its exceptional inter- and intratumor heterogeneity, it is highly resistant to conventional systemic therapies. Targeting the evasion of cell death, one of cancer's hallmarks, is currently emerging as an alternative strategy for ccRCC. In this article, we review the current state of apoptosis-inducing therapies against ccRCC, including antisense oligonucleotides, BH3 mimetics, histone deacetylase inhibitors, cyclin-kinase inhibitors, inhibitors of apoptosis protein antagonists, and monoclonal antibodies. Although preclinical studies have shown encouraging results, these compounds fail to improve patients' outcomes significantly. Current evidence suggests that inducing apoptosis in ccRCC may promote tumor progression through apoptosis-induced proliferation, anastasis, and apoptosis-induced nuclear expulsion. Therefore, re-evaluating this approach is expected to enable successful preclinical-to-clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kowalewski
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz 85-796, Poland; Center of Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz 85-796, Poland.
| | - Jędrzej Borowczak
- Clinical Department of Oncology, Oncology Centre Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz 85-796, Poland
| | - Mateusz Maniewski
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz 85-796, Poland; Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz 85-094, Poland
| | - Karol Gostomczyk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Oncology, Chair of Pathomorphology and Clinical Placentology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz 85-094, Poland
| | - Dariusz Grzanka
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz 85-094, Poland
| | - Łukasz Szylberg
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz 85-796, Poland; Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Oncology, Chair of Pathomorphology and Clinical Placentology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz 85-094, Poland
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12
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Tang M, Qu Y, He P, Yao E, Guo T, Yu D, Zhang N, Kiratitanaporn W, Sun Y, Liu L, Wang Y, Chen S. Heat-inducible CAR-T overcomes adverse mechanical tumor microenvironment in a 3D bioprinted glioblastoma model. Mater Today Bio 2024; 26:101077. [PMID: 38765247 PMCID: PMC11099333 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) presents a significant therapeutic challenge due to the limited efficacy of existing treatments. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy offers promise, but its potential in solid tumors like GBM is undermined by the physical barrier posed by the extracellular matrix (ECM). To address the inadequacies of traditional 2D cell culture, animal models, and Matrigel-based 3D culture in mimicking the mechanical characteristics of tumor tissues, we employed biomaterials and digital light processing-based 3D bioprinting to fabricate biomimetic tumor models with finely tunable ECM stiffness independent of ECM composition. Our results demonstrated that increased material stiffness markedly impeded CAR-T cell penetration and tumor cell cytotoxicity in GBM models. The 3D bioprinted models enabled us to examine the influence of ECM stiffness on CAR-T cell therapy effectiveness, providing a clinically pertinent evaluation tool for CAR-T cell development in stiff solid tumors. Furthermore, we developed an innovative heat-inducible CAR-T cell therapy, effectively overcoming the challenges posed by the stiff tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Tang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yunjia Qu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Peixiang He
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Emmie Yao
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Tianze Guo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Di Yu
- Department of Human Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nancy Zhang
- Department of Human Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Wisarut Kiratitanaporn
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yazhi Sun
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Longwei Liu
- Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Yingxiao Wang
- Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Shaochen Chen
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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13
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Li X, Zhao L, Li W, Gao P, Zhang N. HER2-targeting CAR-T cells show highly efficient anti-tumor activity against glioblastoma both in vitro and in vivo. Genes Immun 2024; 25:201-208. [PMID: 38702509 PMCID: PMC11178492 DOI: 10.1038/s41435-024-00275-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Current treatment options for GBM include surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy, which predominantly slow cancer growth and reduce symptoms, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of no more than 10%. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a new class of cellular immunotherapy that has made great progress in treating malignant tumors. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is overexpressed in GBM and may provide a potential therapeutic target for GBM treatment. In this study, we constructed third-generation CAR-T cells targeting the HER2 antigen in GBM. HER2-CAR-T cells showed effective anti-tumor activity both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, HER2-specific CAR-T cells exhibited strong cytotoxicity and cytokine-secreting abilities against GBM cells in vitro. Anti-HER2 CAR-T cells also exhibited increased cytotoxicity with increasing effector-to-target ratios. Anti-HER2 CAR-T cells delivered via peritumoral injection successfully stunted tumor progression in vivo. Moreover, peritumoral intravenous administration of anti-HER2 CAR-T cells resulted in therapeutic improvement against GBM cells compared with intravenous administration. In conclusion, our study shows that HER2 CAR-T cells represent an emerging immunotherapy for treating GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Li
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116023, China
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Lifen Zhao
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116023, China
| | - Wenzhe Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province, 515041, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116023, China.
| | - Nianzhu Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116023, China.
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14
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Bove C, Maher J, Glover M. The role of CD4 + CAR T cells in cancer immunotherapy. Transl Cancer Res 2024; 13:2580-2586. [PMID: 38881935 PMCID: PMC11170516 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-2044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - John Maher
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy's Hospital, London, UK
- Guy's Hospital, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Eastbourne, UK
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15
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Zhao K, Wu C, Li X, Niu M, Wu D, Cui X, Zhao H. From mechanism to therapy: the journey of CD24 in cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1401528. [PMID: 38881902 PMCID: PMC11176514 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1401528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
CD24 is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored protein that is expressed in a wide range of tissues and cell types. It is involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including cell adhesion, migration, differentiation, and apoptosis. Additionally, CD24 has been studied extensively in the context of cancer, where it has been found to play a role in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in CD24 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. This review summarizes the current knowledge of CD24, including its structure, function, and its role in cancer. Finally, we provide insights into potential clinical application of CD24 and discuss possible approaches for the development of targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Caifeng Wu
- Department of Hand and Foot, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiangjun Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Mengchao Niu
- Department of Operation Room, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaofeng Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hai Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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16
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Cappabianca D, Li J, Zheng Y, Tran C, Kasparek K, Mendez P, Thu R, Maures T, Capitini CM, Deans R, Saha K. Non-viral expression of chimeric antigen receptors with multiplex gene editing in primary T cells. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1379900. [PMID: 38882639 PMCID: PMC11177325 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1379900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Efficient engineering of T cells to express exogenous tumor-targeting receptors such as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) or T-cell receptors (TCRs) is a key requirement of effective adoptive cell therapy for cancer. Genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, can further alter the functional characteristics of therapeutic T cells through the knockout of genes of interest while knocking in synthetic receptors that can recognize cancer cells. Performing multiple rounds of gene transfer with precise genome editing, termed multiplexing, remains a key challenge, especially for non-viral delivery platforms. Here, we demonstrate the efficient production of primary human T cells incorporating the knockout of three clinically relevant genes (B2M, TRAC, and PD1) along with the non-viral transfection of a CAR targeting disialoganglioside GD2. Multiplexed knockout results in high on-target deletion for all three genes, with low off-target editing and chromosome alterations. Incorporating non-viral delivery to knock in a GD2-CAR resulted in a TRAC-B2M-PD1-deficient GD2 CAR T-cell product with a central memory cell phenotype and high cytotoxicity against GD2-expressing neuroblastoma target cells. Multiplexed gene-editing with non-viral delivery by CRISPR/Cas9 is feasible and safe, with a high potential for rapid and efficient manufacturing of highly potent allogeneic CAR T-cell products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Cappabianca
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jingling Li
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Yueting Zheng
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Cac Tran
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | | | - Pedro Mendez
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Ricky Thu
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Travis Maures
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Christian M Capitini
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Robert Deans
- Synthego Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Krishanu Saha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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17
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Nishimura CD, Corrigan D, Zheng XY, Galbo PM, Wang S, Liu Y, Wei Y, Suo L, Cui W, Mercado N, Zheng D, Zhang CC, Zang X. TOP CAR with TMIGD2 as a safe and effective costimulatory domain in CAR cells treating human solid tumors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk1857. [PMID: 38718110 PMCID: PMC11078193 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk1857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy shows impressive efficacy treating hematologic malignancies but requires further optimization in solid tumors. Here, we developed a TMIGD2 optimized potent/persistent (TOP) CAR that incorporated the costimulatory domain of TMIGD2, a T and NK cell costimulator, and monoclonal antibodies targeting the IgV domain of B7-H3, an immune checkpoint expressed on solid tumors and tumor vasculature. Comparing second- and third-generation B7-H3 CARs containing TMIGD2, CD28, and/or 4-1BB costimulatory domains revealed superior antitumor responses in B7-H3.TMIGD2 and B7-H3.CD28.4-1BB CAR-T cells in vitro. Comparing these two constructs using in vivo orthotopic human cancer models demonstrated that B7-H3.TMIGD2 CAR-T cells had equivalent or superior antitumor activity, survival, expansion, and persistence. Mechanistically, B7-H3.TMIGD2 CAR-T cells maintained mitochondrial metabolism; produced less cytokines; and established fewer exhausted cells, more central memory cells, and a larger CD8/CD4 T cell ratio. These studies demonstrate that the TOP CAR with TMIGD2 costimulation offered distinct benefits from CD28.41BB costimulation and is effective against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D. Nishimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Institute for Immunotherapy of Cancer, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Devin Corrigan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Institute for Immunotherapy of Cancer, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Xiang Yu Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Phillip M. Galbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Yao Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Linna Suo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Nadia Mercado
- Department of Biostatistics, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Cheng Cheng Zhang
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Institute for Immunotherapy of Cancer, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Urology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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18
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Satapathy BP, Sheoran P, Yadav R, Chettri D, Sonowal D, Dash CP, Dhaka P, Uttam V, Yadav R, Jain M, Jain A. The synergistic immunotherapeutic impact of engineered CAR-T cells with PD-1 blockade in lymphomas and solid tumors: a systematic review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1389971. [PMID: 38799440 PMCID: PMC11116574 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1389971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor-T Cell (CAR-T) and immune checkpoint inhibitors like programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) blockers are showing promising results for numerous cancer patients. However, significant advancements are required before CAR-T therapies become readily available as off-the-shelf treatments, particularly for solid tumors and lymphomas. In this review, we have systematically analyzed the combination therapy involving engineered CAR-T cells and anti PD-1 agents. This approach aims at overcoming the limitations of current treatments and offers potential advantages such as enhanced tumor inhibition, alleviated T-cell exhaustion, heightened T-cell activation, and minimized toxicity. The integration of CAR-T therapy, which targets tumor-associated antigens, with PD-1 blockade augments T-cell function and mitigates immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment. To assess the impact of combination therapy on various tumors and lymphomas, we categorized them based on six major tumor-associated antigens: mesothelin, disialoganglioside GD-2, CD-19, CD-22, CD-133, and CD-30, which are present in different tumor types. We evaluated the efficacy, complete and partial responses, and progression-free survival in both pre-clinical and clinical models. Additionally, we discussed potential implications, including the feasibility of combination immunotherapies, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research to optimize treatment strategies and improve outcomes for cancer patients. Overall, we believe combining CAR-T therapy with PD-1 blockade holds promise for the next generation of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibhu Prasad Satapathy
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Pooja Sheoran
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Rohit Yadav
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dewan Chettri
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Dhruba Sonowal
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Chinmayee Priyadarsini Dash
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prachi Dhaka
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Uttam
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Ritu Yadav
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Manju Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Aklank Jain
- Department of Zoology, Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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19
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Zhu B, Yin H, Zhang D, Zhang M, Chao X, Scimeca L, Wu MR. Synthetic biology approaches for improving the specificity and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Cell Mol Immunol 2024; 21:436-447. [PMID: 38605087 PMCID: PMC11061174 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01153-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has shown robust efficacy in treating a broad spectrum of hematological and solid cancers. Despite the transformative impact of immunotherapy on cancer treatment, several outstanding challenges remain. These challenges include on-target off-tumor toxicity, systemic toxicity, and the complexity of achieving potent and sustainable therapeutic efficacy. Synthetic biology has emerged as a promising approach to overcome these obstacles, offering innovative tools for engineering living cells with customized functions. This review provides an overview of the current landscape and future prospects of cancer immunotherapy, particularly emphasizing the role of synthetic biology in augmenting its specificity, controllability, and efficacy. We delineate and discuss two principal synthetic biology strategies: those targeting tumor surface antigens with engineered immune cells and those detecting intratumoral disease signatures with engineered gene circuits. This review concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the enduring challenges in cancer immunotherapy and the potential breakthroughs that synthetic biology may contribute to the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Hang Yin
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Di Zhang
- Drug Safety Research & Evaluation, Takeda Pharmaceuticals International Company, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Meiling Zhang
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiaojuan Chao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Luca Scimeca
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ming-Ru Wu
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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20
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Sheykhhasan M, Ahmadieh-Yazdi A, Vicidomini R, Poondla N, Tanzadehpanah H, Dirbaziyan A, Mahaki H, Manoochehri H, Kalhor N, Dama P. CAR T therapies in multiple myeloma: unleashing the future. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:667-686. [PMID: 38438559 PMCID: PMC11101341 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00750-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the field of cancer treatment has witnessed remarkable breakthroughs that have revolutionized the landscape of care for cancer patients. While traditional pillars such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy have long been available, a cutting-edge therapeutic approach called CAR T-cell therapy has emerged as a game-changer in treating multiple myeloma (MM). This novel treatment method complements options like autologous stem cell transplants and immunomodulatory medications, such as proteasome inhibitors, by utilizing protein complexes or anti-CD38 antibodies with potent complement-dependent cytotoxic effects. Despite the challenges and obstacles associated with these treatments, the recent approval of the second FDA multiple myeloma CAR T-cell therapy has sparked immense promise in the field. Thus far, the results indicate its potential as a highly effective therapeutic solution. Moreover, ongoing preclinical and clinical trials are exploring the capabilities of CAR T-cells in targeting specific antigens on myeloma cells, offering hope for patients with relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM). These advancements have shown the potential for CAR T cell-based medicines or combination therapies to elicit greater treatment responses and minimize side effects. In this context, it is crucial to delve into the history and functions of CAR T-cells while acknowledging their limitations. We can strategize and develop innovative approaches to overcome these barriers by understanding their challenges. This article aims to provide insights into the application of CAR T-cells in treating MM, shedding light on their potential, limitations, and strategies employed to enhance their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Sheykhhasan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Ahmadieh-Yazdi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi, University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Rosario Vicidomini
- Section on Cellular Communication, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Hamid Tanzadehpanah
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ashkan Dirbaziyan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanie Mahaki
- Vascular & Endovascular Surgery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamed Manoochehri
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Naser Kalhor
- Department of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Qom, Iran
| | - Paola Dama
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK.
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21
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Mai Z, Lin Y, Lin P, Zhao X, Cui L. Modulating extracellular matrix stiffness: a strategic approach to boost cancer immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:307. [PMID: 38693104 PMCID: PMC11063215 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06697-4] [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: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The interplay between extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and the tumor microenvironment is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in cancer progression and the efficacy of immunotherapy. This review comprehensively discusses the key factors regulating ECM remodeling, including the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts and the accumulation and crosslinking of ECM proteins. Furthermore, it provides a detailed exploration of how ECM stiffness influences the behaviors of both tumor and immune cells. Significantly, the impact of ECM stiffness on the response to various immunotherapy strategies, such as immune checkpoint blockade, adoptive cell therapy, oncolytic virus therapy, and therapeutic cancer vaccines, is thoroughly examined. The review also addresses the challenges in translating research findings into clinical practice, highlighting the need for more precise biomaterials that accurately mimic the ECM and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. The insights offered aim to guide future research, with the potential to enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhao Mai
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunfan Lin
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Pei Lin
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China.
| | - Li Cui
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, Guangdong, China.
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22
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Buruiană A, Gheban BA, Gheban-Roșca IA, Georgiu C, Crișan D, Crișan M. The Tumor Stroma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Complex Environment That Fuels Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1727. [PMID: 38730679 PMCID: PMC11083853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex assembly of cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, plays a crucial role in driving tumor progression, shaping treatment responses, and influencing metastasis. This narrative review focuses on the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) tumor stroma, highlighting its key constituents and their dynamic contributions. We examine how significant changes within the cSCC ECM-specifically, alterations in fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, laminins, proteoglycans, and collagens-promote cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. The cellular composition of the cSCC TME is also explored, detailing the intricate interplay of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and various immune cell populations. These diverse players modulate tumor development, angiogenesis, and immune responses. Finally, we emphasize the TME's potential as a therapeutic target. Emerging strategies discussed in this review include harnessing the immune system (adoptive cell transfer, checkpoint blockade), hindering tumor angiogenesis, disrupting CAF activity, and manipulating ECM components. These approaches underscore the vital role that deciphering TME interactions plays in advancing cSCC therapy. Further research illuminating these complex relationships will uncover new avenues for developing more effective treatments for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buruiană
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Bogdan-Alexandru Gheban
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana-Andreea Gheban-Roșca
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400129 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Carmen Georgiu
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Doința Crișan
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Maria Crișan
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
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Zhang T, Tai Z, Miao F, Zhang X, Li J, Zhu Q, Wei H, Chen Z. Adoptive cell therapy for solid tumors beyond CAR-T: Current challenges and emerging therapeutic advances. J Control Release 2024; 368:372-396. [PMID: 38408567 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive cellular immunotherapy using immune cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) is a highly specific anti-tumor immunotherapy that has shown promise in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, there has been a slow progress toward the treatment of solid tumors owing to the complex tumor microenvironment that affects the localization and killing ability of the CAR cells. Solid tumors with a strong immunosuppressive microenvironment and complex vascular system are unaffected by CAR cell infiltration and attack. To improve their efficacy toward solid tumors, CAR cells have been modified and upgraded by "decorating" and "pruning". This review focuses on the structure and function of CARs, the immune cells that can be engineered by CARs and the transformation strategies to overcome solid tumors, with a view to broadening ideas for the better application of CAR cell therapy for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingrui Zhang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; Medical Guarantee Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China; School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Zongguang Tai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China; Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Fengze Miao
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Jiadong Li
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Hua Wei
- Medical Guarantee Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China; School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China.
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24
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Choi Y, Lee D, Kim NY, Seo I, Park NJY, Chong GO. Role of Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Cervical Cancer: Integrating Classical Perspectives with Recent Technological Advances. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:443. [PMID: 38672714 PMCID: PMC11051155 DOI: 10.3390/life14040443] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a pivotal role in the tumor microenvironment, influencing cancer progression and contributing to poor prognosis. However, in cervical cancer (CC), their significance and involvement are relatively less studied than in other gynecological cancers such as ovarian and endometrial cancer. This review aims to provide an overview of TAMs, covering their origins and phenotypes and their impact on CC progression, along with major TAM-targeted therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, we advocate for the integration of cutting-edge research methodologies, such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial RNA sequencing, to enable in-depth and comprehensive investigations into TAMs in CC, which would be beneficial in leading to more personalized and effective immunotherapy strategies for patients with CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeseul Choi
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea; (Y.C.); (D.L.); (N.Y.K.)
| | - Donghyeon Lee
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea; (Y.C.); (D.L.); (N.Y.K.)
| | - Na Young Kim
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea; (Y.C.); (D.L.); (N.Y.K.)
| | - Incheol Seo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea;
- Clinical Omics Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41405, Republic of Korea;
| | - Nora Jee-Young Park
- Clinical Omics Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41405, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Pathology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41404, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun Oh Chong
- Clinical Omics Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41405, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41404, Republic of Korea
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25
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Nagy L, Mezősi-Csaplár M, Rebenku I, Vereb G, Szöőr Á. Universal CAR T cells targeted to HER2 with a biotin-trastuzumab soluble linker penetrate spheroids and large tumor xenografts that are inherently resistant to trastuzumab mediated ADCC. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1365172. [PMID: 38562932 PMCID: PMC10982377 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1365172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
CAR T cell therapies face challenges in combating solid tumors due to their single-target approach, which becomes ineffective if the targeted antigen is absent or lost. Universal CAR T cells (UniCAR Ts) provide a promising solution by utilizing molecular tags (linkers), such as biotin conjugated to monoclonal antibodies, enabling them to target a variety of tumor antigens. Recently, we showed that conventional CAR T cells could penetrate the extracellular matrix (ECM) of ADCC-resistant tumors, which forms a barrier to therapeutic antibodies. This finding led us to investigate whether UniCAR T cells, targeted by soluble antibody-derived linkers, could similarly tackle ADCC-resistant tumors where ECM restricts antibody penetration. We engineered UniCAR T cells by incorporating a biotin-binding monomeric streptavidin 2 (mSA2) domain for targeting HER2 via biotinylated trastuzumab (BT). The activation and cytotoxicity of UniCAR T cells in the presence or absence of BT were evaluated in conventional immunoassays. A 3D spheroid coculture was set up to test the capability of UniCAR Ts to access ECM-masked HER2+ cells. For in vivo analysis, we utilized a HER2+ xenograft model in which intravenously administered UniCAR T cells were supplemented with intraperitoneal BT treatments. In vitro, BT-guided UniCAR T cells showed effective activation and distinct anti-tumor response. Upon target recognition, IFNγ secretion correlated with BT concentration. In the presence of BT, UniCAR T cells effectively penetrated HER2+ spheroids and induced cell death in their core regions. In vivo, upon intravenous administration of UniCAR Ts, circulating BT linkers immediately engaged the mSA2 domain and directed effector cells to the HER2+ tumors. However, these co-treated mice died early, possibly due to the lung infiltration of UniCAR T cells that could recognize both native biotin and HER2. Our results suggest that UniCAR T cells guided with soluble linkers present a viable alternative to conventional CAR T cells, especially for patients resistant to antibody therapy and those with solid tumors exhibiting high antigenic variability. Critical to their success, however, is the choice of an appropriate binding domain for the CAR and the corresponding soluble linker, ensuring both efficacy and safety in therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lőrinc Nagy
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Marianna Mezősi-Csaplár
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - István Rebenku
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - György Vereb
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- HUN-REN-UD Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Árpád Szöőr
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Knight E T, Oluwole O, Kitko C. The Implementation of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell Therapy in Pediatric Patients: Where Did We Come From, Where Are We Now, and Where are We Going? Clin Hematol Int 2024; 6:96-115. [PMID: 38817691 PMCID: PMC11108586 DOI: 10.46989/001c.94386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
CD19-directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Somewhat uniquely among oncologic clinical trials, early clinical development occurred simultaneously in both children and adults. In subsequent years however, the larger number of adult patients with relapsed/refractory (r/r) malignancies has led to accelerated development of multiple CAR T-cell products that target a variety of malignancies, resulting in six currently FDA-approved for adult patients. By comparison, only a single CAR-T cell therapy is approved by the FDA for pediatric patients: tisagenlecleucel, which is approved for patients ≤ 25 years with refractory B-cell precursor ALL, or B-cell ALL in second or later relapse. Tisagenlecleucel is also under evaluation in pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but is not yet been approved for this indication. All the other FDA-approved CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies available for adult patients (axicabtagene ciloleucel, brexucabtagene autoleucel, and lisocabtagene maraleucel) are currently under investigations among children, with preliminary results available in some cases. As the volume and complexity of data continue to grow, so too does the necessity of rapid assimilation and implementation of those data. This is particularly true when considering "atypical" situations, e.g. those arising when patients do not precisely conform to the profile of those included in pivotal clinical trials, or when alternative treatment options (e.g. hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or bispecific T-cell engagers (BITEs)) are also available. We have therefore developed a relevant summary of the currently available literature pertaining to the use of CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies in pediatric patients, and sought to provide guidance for clinicians seeking additional data about specific clinical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olalekan Oluwole
- Medicine Hematology and Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
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27
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Memari E, Khan D, Alkins R, Helfield B. Focused ultrasound-assisted delivery of immunomodulating agents in brain cancer. J Control Release 2024; 367:283-299. [PMID: 38266715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with intravascularly circulating microbubbles can transiently increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to enable targeted therapeutic delivery to the brain, the clinical testing of which is currently underway in both adult and pediatric patients. Aside from traditional cancer drugs, this technique is being extended to promote the delivery of immunomodulating therapeutics to the brain, including antibodies, immune cells, and cytokines. In this manner, FUS approaches are being explored as a tool to improve and amplify the effectiveness of immunotherapy for both primary and metastatic brain cancer, a particularly challenging solid tumor to treat. Here, we present an overview of the latest groundbreaking research in FUS-assisted delivery of immunomodulating agents to the brain in pre-clinical models of brain cancer, and place it within the context of the current immunotherapy approaches. We follow this up with a discussion on new developments and emerging strategies for this rapidly evolving approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Memari
- Department of Physics, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Dure Khan
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan Alkins
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Brandon Helfield
- Department of Physics, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada; Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada.
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28
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Knopik-Skrocka A, Sempowicz A, Piwocka O. Plasticity and resistance of cancer stem cells as a challenge for innovative anticancer therapies - do we know enough to overcome this? EXCLI JOURNAL 2024; 23:335-355. [PMID: 38655094 PMCID: PMC11036066 DOI: 10.17179/excli2024-6972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
According to the CSC hypothesis, cancer stem cells are pivotal in initiating, developing, and causing cancer recurrence. Since the identification of CSCs in leukemia, breast cancer, glioblastoma, and colorectal cancer in the 1990s, researchers have actively investigated the origin and biology of CSCs. However, the CSC hypothesis and the role of these cells in tumor development model is still in debate. These cells exhibit distinct surface markers, are capable of self-renewal, demonstrate unrestricted proliferation, and display metabolic adaptation. CSC phenotypic plasticity and the capacity to EMT is strictly connected to the stemness state. CSCs show high resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. The plasticity of CSCs is significantly influenced by tumor microenvironment factors, such as hypoxia. Targeting the genetic and epigenetic changes of cancer cells, together with interactions with the tumor microenvironment, presents promising avenues for therapeutic strategies. See also the Graphical abstract(Fig. 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Knopik-Skrocka
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University of Poznań, Poland
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Alicja Sempowicz
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University of Poznań, Poland
- Section of Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research, Natural Sciences Club, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Oliwia Piwocka
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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29
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Joy R, Phair K, O'Hara R, Brady D. Recent advances and current challenges in CAR-T cell therapy. Biotechnol Lett 2024; 46:115-126. [PMID: 38150098 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-023-03461-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Rapid advancements in the field of immunotherapy have significantly improved cancer treatments. Specifically, an individualized cell-based modality which involves the removal of some of the patient's own white blood cells, including T cells, has revolutionized research in this field. This study focuses on the recent advances and current challenges of Chimeric Antigen Receptor- T (CAR-T) cell therapy and its regulations in the United States (US) and European Union (EU). Understanding the regulatory regimes of CAR-T cell therapy is critical for researchers and manufacturers as they navigate the hurdles of bringing CAR-T cell therapy to the global market. Benefits of CAR-T cell therapy include high response rates and the potential of long-term remissions in some haematological malignancies. However, the drawbacks are still evident including high costs, adverse reactions, and limited efficacy to solid tumours. CAR-T cell therapy is rapidly advancing, with 1231 clinical trials launched globally according to www.clinicalTrial.gov . The future of CAR-T cell therapy holds enormous promise but improving its safety, effectiveness, and availability are still barriers to its successful implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Joy
- EnviroCORE, Department of Applied Science, South East Technological University, SETU Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, R93V960, Ireland
| | - K Phair
- EnviroCORE, Department of Applied Science, South East Technological University, SETU Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, R93V960, Ireland
| | - R O'Hara
- EnviroCORE, Department of Applied Science, South East Technological University, SETU Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, R93V960, Ireland
| | - D Brady
- EnviroCORE, Department of Applied Science, South East Technological University, SETU Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, R93V960, Ireland.
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30
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Foley CR, Swan SL, Swartz MA. Engineering Challenges and Opportunities in Autologous Cellular Cancer Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:188-198. [PMID: 38166251 PMCID: PMC11155266 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of a patient's own immune or tumor cells, manipulated ex vivo, enables Ag- or patient-specific immunotherapy. Despite some clinical successes, there remain significant barriers to efficacy, broad patient population applicability, and safety. Immunotherapies that target specific tumor Ags, such as chimeric Ag receptor T cells and some dendritic cell vaccines, can mount robust immune responses against immunodominant Ags, but evolving tumor heterogeneity and antigenic downregulation can drive resistance. In contrast, whole tumor cell vaccines and tumor lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccines target the patient's unique tumor antigenic repertoire without prior neoantigen selection; however, efficacy can be weak when lower-affinity clones dominate the T cell pool. Chimeric Ag receptor T cell and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapies additionally face challenges related to genetic modification, T cell exhaustion, and immunotoxicity. In this review, we highlight some engineering approaches and opportunities to these challenges among four classes of autologous cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen R. Foley
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sheridan L. Swan
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Melody A. Swartz
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Ben May Department of Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Babamohamadi M, Mohammadi N, Faryadi E, Haddadi M, Merati A, Ghobadinezhad F, Amirian R, Izadi Z, Hadjati J. Anti-CTLA-4 nanobody as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:17. [PMID: 38191571 PMCID: PMC10774412 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06391-x] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common diseases and causes of death worldwide. Since common treatment approaches do not yield acceptable results in many patients, developing innovative strategies for effective treatment is necessary. Immunotherapy is one of the promising approaches that has been highly regarded for preventing tumor recurrence and new metastases. Meanwhile, inhibiting immune checkpoints is one of the most attractive methods of cancer immunotherapy. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) is an essential immune molecule that plays a vital role in cell cycle modulation, regulation of T cell proliferation, and cytokine production. This molecule is classically expressed by stimulated T cells. Inhibition of overexpression of immune checkpoints such as CTLA-4 receptors has been confirmed as an effective strategy. In cancer immunotherapy, immune checkpoint-blocking drugs can be enhanced with nanobodies that target immune checkpoint molecules. Nanobodies are derived from the variable domain of heavy antibody chains. These small protein fragments have evolved entirely without a light chain and can be used as a powerful tool in imaging and treating diseases with their unique structure. They have a low molecular weight, which makes them smaller than conventional antibodies while still being able to bind to specific antigens. In addition to low molecular weight, specific binding to targets, resistance to temperature, pH, and enzymes, high ability to penetrate tumor tissues, and low toxicity make nanobodies an ideal approach to overcome the disadvantages of monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapy. In this article, while reviewing the cellular and molecular functions of CTLA-4, the structure and mechanisms of nanobodies' activity, and their delivery methods, we will explain the advantages and challenges of using nanobodies, emphasizing immunotherapy treatments based on anti-CTLA-4 nanobodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehregan Babamohamadi
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nastaran Mohammadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Faryadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Maryam Haddadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Merati
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Farbod Ghobadinezhad
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Roshanak Amirian
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zhila Izadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Czaplicka A, Lachota M, Pączek L, Zagożdżon R, Kaleta B. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of Current Evidence. Cells 2024; 13:101. [PMID: 38201305 PMCID: PMC10777940 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010101] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of malignant and non-malignant disorders. CARs are synthetic transmembrane receptors expressed on genetically modified immune effector cells, including T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, or macrophages, which are able to recognize specific surface antigens on target cells and eliminate them. CAR-modified immune cells mediate cytotoxic antitumor effects via numerous mechanisms, including the perforin and granzyme pathway, Fas and Fas Ligand (FasL) pathway, and cytokine secretion. High hopes are associated with the prospective use of the CAR-T strategy against solid cancers, especially the ones resistant to standard oncological therapies, such as pancreatic cancer (PC). Herein, we summarize the current pre-clinical and clinical studies evaluating potential tumor-associated antigens (TAA), CAR-T cell toxicities, and their efficacy in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Czaplicka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Mazovian “Bródnowski” Hospital, 03-242 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Mieszko Lachota
- Laboratory of Cellular and Genetic Therapies, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (M.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Leszek Pączek
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Radosław Zagożdżon
- Laboratory of Cellular and Genetic Therapies, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (M.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Beata Kaleta
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland;
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Khodke P, Kumbhar BV. Engineered CAR-T cells: An immunotherapeutic approach for cancer treatment and beyond. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 140:157-198. [PMID: 38762269 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.12.001] [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: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a type of adoptive immunotherapy that offers a promising avenue for enhancing cancer treatment since traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy have proven insufficient in completely eradicating tumors, despite the relatively positive outcomes. It has been observed that CAR-T cell therapy has shown promising results in treating the majority of hematological malignancies but also have a wide scope for other cancer types. CAR is an extra receptor on the T-cell that helps to increase and accelerate tumor destruction by efficiently activating the immune system. It is made up of three domains, the ectodomain, transmembrane, and the endodomain. The ectodomain is essential for antigen recognition and binding, whereas the co-stimulatory signal is transduced by the endodomain. To date, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for six CAR-T cell therapies. However, despite its remarkable success, CAR-T therapy is associated with numerous adverse events and has certain limitations. This chapter focuses on the structure and function of the CAR domain, various generations of CAR, and the process of CAR-T cell development, adverse effects, and challenges in CAR-T therapy. CAR-T cell therapy also has scopes in other disease conditions which include systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and myocardial fibrosis, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purva Khodke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Deemed-to-be University, Mumbai, India
| | - Bajarang Vasant Kumbhar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Deemed-to-be University, Mumbai, India.
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Zhang Y, Geng H, Zeng L, Li J, Yang Q, Jia S, Zong X, Cai W, Liu S, Lu Y, Yu L, Li C, Wu D. Tislelizumab augment the efficacy of CD19/22 dual-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T cell in advanced stage relapsed or refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hematol Oncol 2024; 42:e3227. [PMID: 37776326 DOI: 10.1002/hon.3227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Dual-targeted chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell is an important strategy to improve the efficacy of CD19 CAR-T cell against refractory or relapsed B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R B-NHL). However, durable responses are not achieved in most patients, in part owing CAR-T cell exhaustion caused by PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. We conducted a prospective, single-arm study of dual-targeted CD19/22 CAR-T cell combined with anti-PD-1 antibody, tislelizumab, in R/R B-NHL (NCT04539444). Tislelizumab was administrated on +1 day after patients received infusion of CD19/22 CAR-T cell. Responses, survival and safety were evaluated. From 1 August 2020 to 30 March 2023, 16 patients were enrolled. The median follow-up time is 16.0 (range: 5.0-32.0 months) months. Overall response was achieved in 14 of 16 (87.5%) patients, and the complete response (CR) was achieved in 11 of 16 (68.8%) patients. The 1-year progression-free survival and overall survival rates were 68.8% and 81.3%, respectively. Of the 14 patients responded, 9 patients maintained their response until the end of follow-up. Among the 15 out of 16 (93.8%) patients who had extranodal involvement, 14 (93.3%) patients achieved overall response rate with 11 (73.3%) patients achieving CR. Eight (50%) patients experienced cytokine release syndrome. No neurologic adverse events were reported. Gene Ontology-Biological Process enrichment analysis showed that immune response-related signaling pathways were enriched in CR patients. Our results suggest that CD19/22 CAR-T cell combined with tislelizumab elicit a safe and durable response in R/R B-NHL and may improve the prognosis of those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hongzhi Geng
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Liangyu Zeng
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qin Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sixun Jia
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiangping Zong
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Cai
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shuangzhu Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yutong Lu
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caixia Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Depei Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Chen L, Meng J, Zhou Y, Zhao F, Ma Y, Feng W, Chen X, jin J, Gao S, Liu J, Zhang M, Liu A, Hong Z, Tang J, Kuang D, Huang L, Zhang Y, Fei P. Efficient 3D imaging and pathological analysis of the human lymphoma tumor microenvironment using light-sheet immunofluorescence microscopy. Theranostics 2024; 14:406-419. [PMID: 38164148 PMCID: PMC10750216 DOI: 10.7150/thno.86221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The composition and spatial structure of the lymphoma tumor microenvironment (TME) provide key pathological insights for tumor survival and growth, invasion and metastasis, and resistance to immunotherapy. However, the 3D lymphoma TME has not been well studied owing to the limitations of current imaging techniques. In this work, we take full advantage of a series of new techniques to enable the first 3D TME study in intact lymphoma tissue. Methods: Diverse cell subtypes in lymphoma tissues were tagged using a multiplex immunofluorescence labeling technique. To optically clarify the entire tissue, immunolabeling-enabled three-dimensional imaging of solvent-cleared organs (iDISCO+), clear, unobstructed brain imaging cocktails and computational analysis (CUBIC) and stabilization to harsh conditions via intramolecular epoxide linkages to prevent degradation (SHIELD) were comprehensively compared with the ultimate dimensional imaging of solvent-cleared organs (uDISCO) approach selected for clearing lymphoma tissues. A Bessel-beam light-sheet fluorescence microscope (B-LSFM) was developed to three-dimensionally image the clarified tissues at high speed and high resolution. A customized MATLAB program was used to quantify the number and colocalization of the cell subtypes based on the acquired multichannel 3D images. By combining these cutting-edge methods, we successfully carried out high-efficiency 3D visualization and high-content cellular analyses of the lymphoma TME. Results: Several antibodies, including CD3, CD8, CD20, CD68, CD163, CD14, CD15, FOXP3 and Ki67, were screened for labeling the TME in lymphoma tumors. The 3D imaging results of the TME from three types of lymphoma, reactive lymphocytic hyperplasia (RLN), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL), were quantitatively analyzed, and their cell number, localization, and spatial correlation were comprehensively revealed. Conclusion: We present an advanced imaging-based method for efficient 3D visualization and high-content cellular analysis of the lymphoma TME, rendering it a valuable tool for tumor pathological diagnosis and other clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liting Chen
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiao Meng
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hematology Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yao Zhou
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fang Zhao
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifan Ma
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenyang Feng
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingyu Chen
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin jin
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shimeng Gao
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianchao Liu
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Hematology Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Aichun Liu
- Hematology Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhenya Hong
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Tang
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong Kuang
- Department of Pathology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yicheng Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Fei
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- School of Optical and Electronic Information - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Díaz de león JSA, Aguilar I, Barb AW. Macrophage N-glycan processing inhibits antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis. Glycobiology 2023; 33:1182-1192. [PMID: 37792857 PMCID: PMC10876040 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwad078] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Factors regulating macrophage effector function represent potential targets to optimize the efficacy of antibody-mediated therapies. Macrophages are myeloid cells capable of engulfing and destroying diseased or damaged target cells. Antibodies binding to the target cell surface can engage macrophage Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs) to elicit antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), a process that contributes to treatments mediated by anti-tumor antibodies. Conversely, macrophage ADCP of apoptotic T cells is also linked to tolerance in the tumor environment. Here we evaluated the role of asparagine(N)-linked glycans in the function of macrophages derived from primary human monocytes. Macrophages treated with kifunensine, an inhibitor of N-glycan processing, exhibited greater target binding and ADCP of antibody-coated target cells. Kifunensine treatment increased ADCP of both rituximab-coated Raji B cells and trastuzumab-coated SKBR3 cells. ADCP required FcγRs; inhibiting CD64 / FcγRI led to the greatest reduction, followed by CD32 / FcγRII and then CD16 / FcγRIII in most donors. Kifunensine treatment also increased the antibody-binding affinity of CD16. Differences in the abundance of phosphorylated immune receptors, including Siglec-9, CD32a, and LAIR-1 correlated with the increased ADCP. These results demonstrate that N-glycan processing regulates macrophage effector function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús S Aguilar Díaz de león
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, 120 E. Green St, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Isaac Aguilar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, 120 E. Green St, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Adam W Barb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, 120 E. Green St, Athens, GA 30602, United States
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, 315 Riverbend Rd, Athens, GA 30602, United States
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, 120 E. Green St, Athens, GA 30602, United States
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Valera PS, Plou J, García I, Astobiza I, Viera C, M. Aransay A, Martin JE, Sasselli IR, Carracedo A, Liz-Marzán LM. SERS analysis of cancer cell-secreted purines reveals a unique paracrine crosstalk in MTAP-deficient tumors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311674120. [PMID: 38109528 PMCID: PMC10756296 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311674120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic pseudoorgan that shapes the development and progression of cancers. It is a complex ecosystem shaped by interactions between tumor and stromal cells. Although the traditional focus has been on the paracrine communication mediated by protein messengers, recent attention has turned to the metabolic secretome in tumors. Metabolic enzymes, together with exchanged substrates and products, have emerged as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, traditional techniques for profiling secreted metabolites in complex cellular contexts are limited. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has emerged as a promising alternative due to its nontargeted nature and simplicity of operation. Although SERS has demonstrated its potential for detecting metabolites in biological settings, its application in deciphering metabolic interactions within multicellular systems like the TME remains underexplored. In this study, we introduce a SERS-based strategy to investigate the secreted purine metabolites of tumor cells lacking methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP), a common genetic event associated with poor prognosis in various cancers. Our SERS analysis reveals that MTAP-deficient cancer cells selectively produce methylthioadenosine (MTA), which is taken up and metabolized by fibroblasts. Fibroblasts exposed to MTA exhibit: i) molecular reprogramming compatible with cancer aggressiveness, ii) a significant production of purine derivatives that could be readily recycled by cancer cells, and iii) the capacity to secrete purine derivatives that induce macrophage polarization. Our study supports the potential of SERS for cancer metabolism research and reveals an unprecedented paracrine crosstalk that explains TME reprogramming in MTAP-deleted cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo S. Valera
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
- Departamento de Química Aplicada, Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Universitatea (UPV/EHU), Donostia-San Sebastián20018, Spain
| | - Javier Plou
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Center for Cooperative Research in Nanoscience (CIC nanoGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20018, Spain
| | - Isabel García
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
| | - Ianire Astobiza
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC),Madrid28029, Spain
| | - Cristina Viera
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
| | - Ana M. Aransay
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in hepatic diseases, Derio48160, Spain
| | - José E. Martin
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
| | - Ivan R. Sasselli
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Centro de Fisica de Materiales, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas-Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Universitatea (CSIC-UPV)/EHU), Donostiarra-San Sebastián20018, Spain
| | - Arkaitz Carracedo
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio48160, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC),Madrid28029, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao48009, Spain
- Translational Prostate Cancer Research Lab, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences-Basurto, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Derio48160, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Universitatea (UPV/EHU), Leioa48940, Spain
| | - Luis M. Liz-Marzán
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Donostia-San Sebastián20014, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao48009, Spain
- Cinbio, Universidade de Vigo, Vigo36310, Spain
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Loureiro LR, Hoffmann L, Neuber C, Rupp L, Arndt C, Kegler A, Kubeil M, Hagemeyer CE, Stephan H, Schmitz M, Feldmann A, Bachmann M. Immunotheranostic target modules for imaging and navigation of UniCAR T-cells to strike FAP-expressing cells and the tumor microenvironment. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:341. [PMID: 38102692 PMCID: PMC10722841 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02912-w] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells are a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy, particularly for treating hematologic malignancies. Yet, their effectiveness is limited when tackling solid tumors, where immune cell infiltration and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) are major hurdles. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is highly expressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and various tumor cells, playing an important role in tumor growth and immunosuppression. Aiming to modulate the TME with increased clinical safety and effectiveness, we developed novel small and size-extended immunotheranostic UniCAR target modules (TMs) targeting FAP. METHODS The specific binding and functionality of the αFAP-scFv TM and the size-extended αFAP-IgG4 TM were assessed using 2D and 3D in vitro models as well as in vivo. Their specific tumor accumulation and diagnostic potential were evaluated using PET studies after functionalization with a chelator and suitable radionuclide. RESULTS The αFAP-scFv and -IgG4 TMs effectively and specifically redirected UniCAR T-cells using 2D, 3D, and in vivo models. Moreover, a remarkably high and specific accumulation of radiolabeled FAP-targeting TMs at the tumor site of xenograft mouse models was observed. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that the novel αFAP TMs are promising immunotheranostic tools to foster cancer imaging and treatment, paving the way for a more convenient, individualized, and safer treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana R Loureiro
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
| | - Lydia Hoffmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Christin Neuber
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Luise Rupp
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Arndt
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexandra Kegler
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Manja Kubeil
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph E Hagemeyer
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Holger Stephan
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Marc Schmitz
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Feldmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Bachmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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Ruella M, Korell F, Porazzi P, Maus MV. Mechanisms of resistance to chimeric antigen receptor-T cells in haematological malignancies. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:976-995. [PMID: 37907724 PMCID: PMC10965011 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00807-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have recently emerged as a powerful therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients with chemotherapy-refractory or relapsed blood cancers, including acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, diffuse large B cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Nevertheless, resistance to CAR-T cell therapies occurs in most patients. In this Review, we summarize the resistance mechanisms to CAR-T cell immunotherapy by analysing CAR-T cell dysfunction, intrinsic tumour resistance and the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. We discuss current research strategies to overcome multiple resistance mechanisms, including optimization of the CAR design, improvement of in vivo T cell function and persistence, modulation of the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment and synergistic combination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ruella
- Division of Hematology and Oncology and Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Felix Korell
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrizia Porazzi
- Division of Hematology and Oncology and Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marcela V Maus
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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40
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Hadiloo K, Taremi S, Heidari M, Esmaeilzadeh A. The CAR macrophage cells, a novel generation of chimeric antigen-based approach against solid tumors. Biomark Res 2023; 11:103. [PMID: 38017494 PMCID: PMC10685521 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00537-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, adoptive cell therapy has many successes in cancer therapy, and this subject is brilliant in using chimeric antigen receptor T cells. The CAR T cell therapy, with its FDA-approved drugs, could treat several types of hematological malignancies and thus be very attractive for treating solid cancer. Unfortunately, the CAR T cell cannot be very functional in solid cancers due to its unique features. This treatment method has several harmful adverse effects that limit their applications, so novel treatments must use new cells like NK cells, NKT cells, and macrophage cells. Among these cells, the CAR macrophage cells, due to their brilliant innate features, are more attractive for solid tumor therapy and seem to be a better candidate for the prior treatment methods. The CAR macrophage cells have vital roles in the tumor microenvironment and, with their direct effect, can eliminate tumor cells efficiently. In addition, the CAR macrophage cells, due to being a part of the innate immune system, attended the tumor sites. With the high infiltration, their therapy modulations are more effective. This review investigates the last achievements in CAR-macrophage cells and the future of this immunotherapy treatment method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Hadiloo
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Department of Immunology, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Siavash Taremi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mahmood Heidari
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
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du Chatinier A, Velilla IQ, Meel MH, Hoving EW, Hulleman E, Metselaar DS. Microglia in pediatric brain tumors: The missing link to successful immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101246. [PMID: 37924816 PMCID: PMC10694606 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in children. Despite the development of immunotherapeutic strategies for adult brain tumors, progress in pediatric neuro-oncology has been hindered by the complex and poorly understood nature of the brain's immune system during early development, a phase that is critical for the onset of many pediatric brain tumors. A defining characteristic of these tumors is the abundance of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. In this review, we explore the concept of microglial diversity across brain regions and throughout development and discuss how their maturation stage may contribute to tumor growth in children. We also summarize the current knowledge on the roles of microglia in common pediatric brain tumor entities and provide examples of myeloid-based immunotherapeutic strategies. Our review underscores the importance of microglial plasticity in pediatric brain tumors and its significance for developing effective immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimée du Chatinier
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Irene Querol Velilla
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michaël Hananja Meel
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco Wieger Hoving
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Hulleman
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dennis Serge Metselaar
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Ramezani F, Panahi Meymandi AR, Akbari B, Tamtaji OR, Mirzaei H, Brown CE, Mirzaei HR. Outsmarting trogocytosis to boost CAR NK/T cell therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:183. [PMID: 37974170 PMCID: PMC10652537 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01894-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) NK and T cell therapy are promising immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of cancer. However, the efficacy of CAR NK/T cell therapy is often hindered by various factors, including the phenomenon of trogocytosis, which involves the bidirectional exchange of membrane fragments between cells. In this review, we explore the role of trogocytosis in CAR NK/T cell therapy and highlight potential strategies for its modulation to improve therapeutic efficacy. We provide an in-depth analysis of trogocytosis as it relates to the fate and function of NK and T cells, focusing on its effects on cell activation, cytotoxicity, and antigen presentation. We discuss how trogocytosis can mediate transient antigen loss on cancer cells, thereby negatively affecting the effector function of CAR NK/T cells. Additionally, we address the phenomenon of fratricide and trogocytosis-associated exhaustion, which can limit the persistence and effectiveness of CAR-expressing cells. Furthermore, we explore how trogocytosis can impact CAR NK/T cell functionality, including the acquisition of target molecules and the modulation of signaling pathways. To overcome the negative effects of trogocytosis on cellular immunotherapy, we propose innovative approaches to modulate trogocytosis and augment CAR NK/T cell therapy. These strategies encompass targeting trogocytosis-related molecules, engineering CAR NK/T cells to resist trogocytosis-induced exhaustion and leveraging trogocytosis to enhance the function of CAR-expressing cells. By overcoming the limitations imposed by trogocytosis, it may be possible to unleash the full potential of CAR NK/T therapy against cancer. The knowledge and strategies presented in this review will guide future research and development, leading to improved therapeutic outcomes in the field of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Ramezani
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Panahi Meymandi
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnia Akbari
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Reza Tamtaji
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Christine E Brown
- Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Hamid Reza Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Bailey SR, Berger TR, Graham C, Larson RC, Maus MV. Four challenges to CAR T cells breaking the glass ceiling. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250039. [PMID: 36585889 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250039] [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: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based therapies using chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR T) have had dramatic efficacy in the clinic and can even mediate curative responses in patients with hematologic malignancies. As living drugs, engineered cells can still be detected in some patients even years after the original infusion. The excitement around the cell therapy field continues to expand as recent reports have shown that CAR T cells can induce remission in patients with autoimmune disease. While these promising advances in the field garner hope for wide-spread utility of CAR T therapies across diseases, several roadblocks exist that currently limit the access and efficacy of this therapy in the clinic. Herein, we will discuss four major obstacles that the CAR T field faces, including toxicity, identifying tumor-specific antigens, improving function in solid tumors, and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. CAR T cells have potential for a multitude of diseases, but these glass ceilings will need to be broken in order to improve clinical responses and make this potentially life-saving therapy accessible to a larger patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie R Bailey
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Trisha R Berger
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charlotte Graham
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca C Larson
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marcela V Maus
- Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Fang L, Yuan S, Wang M, Zhang C, Wang X, Li H, Yang J, Li W, Sun N, Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Chai D, Li H, Zheng J, Wang G. Recombinant oncolytic adenovirus armed with CCL5, IL-12, and IFN-γ promotes CAR-T infiltration and proliferation in vivo to eradicate local and distal tumors. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:328. [PMID: 37660142 PMCID: PMC10475122 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01626-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells for solid tumors remains unsatisfactory due to the limited tumor infiltration and immunosuppressive microenvironment. To overcome these limitations, the genetically engineered recombinant oncolytic adenoviruses (OAVs) that conditionally replicate in tumor cells were developed to modify the tumor microenvironment (TME) to facilitate CAR-T-mediated tumor eradication. Here in the present study, a novel recombinant OAV carrying CCL5, IL12, and IFN-γ controlled by Ki67 promoter was constructed (named AdKi67-C3). The antitumor activity of AdKi67-C3 was tested in vitro and in vivo by using mono administration or combing with CAR-T cells targeting B7H3. It proved that CCL5 expressed by AdKi67-C3 indeed induced more CAR-T migration in vitro and CAR-T infiltration in tumor mass in vivo. Meanwhile, cytokines of IFN-γ and IL12 secreted by AdKi67-C3-infected tumor cells significantly promoted proliferation and persistence of CAR-T cells in vitro and in vivo. In tumor-bearing xenograft mouse models of kidney, prostate or pancreatic cancer, local pretreatment with AdKi67-C3 dramatically enhanced CAR-T cell efficacy and eliminated local and distant tumors. More importantly, mice achieving complete tumor regression resisted to re-challenge with the same tumor cells, suggesting establishment of long-term antitumor immune response. Therefore, OAVs armored with cytokines could be developed as a bioenhancer to defeat the immunosuppressive microenvironment and improve therapeutic efficacy of CAR-T in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Sen Yuan
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Cancer Center of Xuzhou No.1 People's Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xueyan Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Hailong Li
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
| | - Wanjing Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Nan Sun
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Dafei Chai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Huizhong Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China.
| | - Gang Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China.
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 99 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China.
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Giorgioni L, Ambrosone A, Cometa MF, Salvati AL, Magrelli A. CAR-T State of the Art and Future Challenges, A Regulatory Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11803. [PMID: 37511562 PMCID: PMC10380644 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This review is an outlook on CAR-T development up to the beginning of 2023, with a special focus on the European landscape and its regulatory field, highlighting the main features and limitations affecting this innovative therapy in cancer treatment. We analysed the current state of the art in the EU and set out a showcase of the field's potential advancements in the coming years. For this analysis, the data used came from the available scientific literature as well as from the European Medicines Agency and from clinical trial databases. The latter were investigated to query the studies on CAR-Ts that are active and/or relevant to the review process. As of this writing, CAR-Ts have started to move past the "ceiling" of third-line treatment with positive results in comparison trials with the Standard of Care (SoC). One such example is the trial Zuma-7 (NCT03391466), which resulted in approval of CAR-T products (Yescarta™) for second-line treatment, a crucial achievement for the field which can increase the use of this type of therapy. Despite exciting results in clinical trials, limitations are still many: they regard access, production, duration of response, resistance, safety, overall efficacy, and cost mitigation strategies. Nonetheless, CAR-T constructs are becoming more diverse, and the technology is starting to produce some remarkable results in treating diseases other than cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Giorgioni
- Faculty of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ambrosone
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Cometa
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Armando Magrelli
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
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46
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Khawar MB, Ge F, Afzal A, Sun H. From barriers to novel strategies: smarter CAR T therapy hits hard to tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1203230. [PMID: 37520522 PMCID: PMC10375020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1203230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy for solid tumors shows promise, but several hurdles remain. Strategies to overcome barriers such as CAR T therapy-related toxicities (CTT), immunosuppression, and immune checkpoints through research and technology are needed to put the last nail to the coffin and offer hope for previously incurable malignancies. Herein we review current literature and infer novel strategies for the mitigation of CTT while impeding immune suppression, stromal barriers, tumor heterogeneity, on-target/off-tumor toxicities, and better transfection strategies with an emphasis on clinical research and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
- Applied Molecular Biology and Biomedicine Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan
| | - Fei Ge
- Haian Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ali Afzal
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haibo Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-Coding RNA Research Yangzhou, Yangzhou, China
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Elcheva IA, Gowda CP, Bogush D, Gornostaeva S, Fakhardo A, Sheth N, Kokolus KM, Sharma A, Dovat S, Uzun Y, Schell TD, Spiegelman VS. IGF2BP family of RNA-binding proteins regulate innate and adaptive immune responses in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1224516. [PMID: 37503349 PMCID: PMC10369348 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1224516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding proteins (IGF2BP1, IGF2BP2, and IGF2BP3) are a family of RNA-binding proteins that play an essential role in the development and disease by regulating mRNA stability and translation of critical regulators of cell division and metabolism. Genetic and chemical inhibition of these proteins slows down cancer cell proliferation, decreases invasiveness, and prolongs life span in a variety of animal models. The role of RNA-binding proteins in the induction of tissues' immunogenicity is increasingly recognized, but, the impact of the IGF2BPs family of proteins on the induction of innate and adaptive immune responses in cancer is not fully understood. Here we report that downregulation of IGF2BP1, 2, and 3 expression facilitates the expression of interferon beta-stimulated genes. IGF2BP1 has a greater effect on interferon beta and gamma signaling compared to IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 paralogs. We demonstrate that knockdown or knockout of IGF2BP1, 2, and 3 significantly potentiates inhibition of cell growth induced by IFNβ and IFNγ. Mouse melanoma cells with Igf2bp knockouts demonstrate increased expression of MHC I (H-2) and induce intracellular Ifn-γ expression in syngeneic T-lymphocytes in vitro. Increased immunogenicity, associated with Igf2bp1 inhibition, "inflames" mouse melanoma tumors microenvironment in SM1/C57BL/6 and SW1/C3H mouse models measured by a two-fold increase of NK cells and tumor-associated myeloid cells. Finally, we demonstrate that the efficiency of anti-PD1 immunotherapy in the mouse melanoma model is significantly more efficient in tumors that lack Igf2bp1 expression. Our retrospective data analysis of immunotherapies in human melanoma patients indicates that high levels of IGF2BP1 and IGF2BP3 are associated with resistance to immunotherapies and poor prognosis. In summary, our study provides evidence of the role of IGF2BP proteins in regulating tumor immunogenicity and establishes those RBPs as immunotherapeutic targets in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina A. Elcheva
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Chethana P. Gowda
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Daniel Bogush
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Svetlana Gornostaeva
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Anna Fakhardo
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Neil Sheth
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Kathleen M. Kokolus
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Arati Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Sinisa Dovat
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Yasin Uzun
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Todd D. Schell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Vladimir S. Spiegelman
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
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Barboy O, Katzenelenbogen Y, Shalita R, Amit I. In Synergy: Optimizing CAR T Development and Personalizing Patient Care Using Single-Cell Technologies. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:1546-1555. [PMID: 37219074 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T therapies hold immense promise to revolutionize cancer treatment. Nevertheless, key challenges, primarily in solid tumor settings, continue to hinder the application of this technology. Understanding CAR T-cell mechanism of action, in vivo activity, and clinical implications is essential for harnessing its full therapeutic potential. Single-cell genomics and cell engineering tools are becoming increasingly effective for the comprehensive research of complex biological systems. The convergence of these two technologies can accelerate CAR T-cell development. Here, we examine the potential of applying single-cell multiomics for the development of next-generation CAR T-cell therapies. SIGNIFICANCE Although CAR T-cell therapies have demonstrated remarkable clinical results in treating cancer, their effectiveness in most patients and tumor types remains limited. Single-cell technologies, which are transforming our understanding of molecular biology, provide new opportunities to overcome the challenges of CAR T-cell therapies. Given the potential of CAR T-cell therapy to tip the balance in the fight against cancer, it is important to understand how single-cell multiomic approaches can be leveraged to develop the next generations of more effective and less toxic CAR T-cell products and to provide powerful decision-making tools for clinicians to optimize treatment and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Barboy
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Rotem Shalita
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ido Amit
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Rejeski K, Jain MD, Smith EL. Mechanisms of Resistance and Treatment of Relapse after CAR T-cell Therapy for Large B-cell Lymphoma and Multiple Myeloma. Transplant Cell Ther 2023; 29:418-428. [PMID: 37076102 PMCID: PMC10330792 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy (CAR-T) has altered the treatment landscape for relapsed/refractory B cell malignancies and multiple myeloma, only a minority of patients attain long-term disease remission. The underlying reasons for CAR-T resistance are multifaceted and can be broadly divided into host-related, tumor-intrinsic, microenvironmental and macroenvironmental, and CAR-T-related factors. Emerging host-related determinants of response to CAR-T relate to gut microbiome composition, intact hematopoietic function, body composition, and physical reserve. Emerging tumor-intrinsic resistance mechanisms include complex genomic alterations and mutations to immunomodulatory genes. Furthermore, the extent of systemic inflammation prior to CAR-T is a potent biomarker of response and reflects a proinflammatory tumor micromilieu characterized by infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cell populations. The tumor and its surrounding micromilieu also can shape the response of the host to CAR-T infusion and the subsequent expansion and persistence of CAR T cells, a prerequisite for efficient eradication of tumor cells. Here, focusing on both large B cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma, we review resistance mechanisms, explore therapeutic avenues to overcome resistance to CAR-T, and discuss the management of patients who relapse after CAR-T.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Rejeski
- Department of Medicine III – Hematology/Oncology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich Site, and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael D. Jain
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, USA
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Mulgaonkar A, Udayakumar D, Yang Y, Harris S, Öz OK, Ramakrishnan Geethakumari P, Sun X. Current and potential roles of immuno-PET/-SPECT in CAR T-cell therapy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1199146. [PMID: 37441689 PMCID: PMC10333708 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1199146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies have evolved as breakthrough treatment options for the management of hematological malignancies and are also being developed as therapeutics for solid tumors. However, despite the impressive patient responses from CD19-directed CAR T-cell therapies, ~ 40%-60% of these patients' cancers eventually relapse, with variable prognosis. Such relapses may occur due to a combination of molecular resistance mechanisms, including antigen loss or mutations, T-cell exhaustion, and progression of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. This class of therapeutics is also associated with certain unique toxicities, such as cytokine release syndrome, immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome, and other "on-target, off-tumor" toxicities, as well as anaphylactic effects. Furthermore, manufacturing limitations and challenges associated with solid tumor infiltration have delayed extensive applications. The molecular imaging modalities of immunological positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography (immuno-PET/-SPECT) offer a target-specific and highly sensitive, quantitative, non-invasive platform for longitudinal detection of dynamic variations in target antigen expression in the body. Leveraging these imaging strategies as guidance tools for use with CAR T-cell therapies may enable the timely identification of resistance mechanisms and/or toxic events when they occur, permitting effective therapeutic interventions. In addition, the utilization of these approaches in tracking the CAR T-cell pharmacokinetics during product development and optimization may help to assess their efficacy and accordingly to predict treatment outcomes. In this review, we focus on current challenges and potential opportunities in the application of immuno-PET/-SPECT imaging strategies to address the challenges encountered with CAR T-cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Mulgaonkar
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Durga Udayakumar
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yaxing Yang
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Shelby Harris
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Orhan K. Öz
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Praveen Ramakrishnan Geethakumari
- Section of Hematologic Malignancies/Transplant and Cell Therapy, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Xiankai Sun
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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