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Shojo K, Tanaka N, Murakami T, Anno T, Teranishi Y, Takamatsu K, Mikami S, Imamura T, Matsumoto K, Oya M. Multiplexed Spatial Imaging at the Single-Cell Level Reveals Mutually Exclusive Expression of B7 Family Proteins. J Transl Med 2024; 104:102131. [PMID: 39244158 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2024.102131] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting novel inhibitory ligands beyond anti-PD-1 and PD-L1 and CTLA-4 therapies is essential for the next decade of the immunotherapy era. Agents for the B7 family molecules B7-H3, B7-H4, and B7-H5 are emerging in clinical trial phases; therefore, further accumulation of evidence from both clinical and basic aspects is vital. Here, we applied a 7-color multiplexed imaging technique to analyze the profile of B7 family B7-H3/B7-H4/B7-H5 expression, in addition to PD-L1, and the spatial characteristics of immune cell infiltrates in urothelial carcinoma (UC). The results revealed that B7-H3 and B7-H4 were mainly expressed on tumor cells and B7-H5 on immune cells in UC, and most of the B7-H3/B7-H4/B7-H5-positive cells were mutually exclusive with PD-L1-positive cells. Also, the expression of B7-H4 was elevated in patients with advanced pathologic stages, and high B7-H4 expression was a significant factor affecting overall mortality following surgery in UC. Furthermore, spatial analysis revealed that the distance from the B7-H4+ cells to the nearest CD8+ cells was markedly far compared with other B7 family-positive tumor cells. Interestingly, the distance from B7-H4+ cells to the nearest CD8+ cells was significantly farther in patients dying from cancer after surgery or immune checkpoint inhibitors compared with cancer survivors; thus, high B7-H4 expression in tumor cells may inhibit CD8 infiltration into the tumor space and that B7-H4-positive cells form a specific spatial niche. In summary, we performed a comprehensive evaluation of B7 family member expression and found that the spatial distribution of B7-H4 suggests the potentially useful role of combination blockade with both B7-H4 and the current anti-PD-1/PD-L1 axis in the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Shojo
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Tanaka
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Tetsushi Murakami
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadatsugu Anno
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Teranishi
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Shuji Mikami
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Hospital Organization Saitama Hospital
| | - Takeshi Imamura
- Department of Molecular Medicine for Pathogenesis, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | | | - Mototsugu Oya
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Castro-Pando S, Howell RM, Li L, Mascaro M, Faraoni EY, Le Roux O, Romanin D, Tahan V, Riquelme E, Zhang Y, Kolls JK, Allison JP, Lozano G, Moghaddam SJ, McAllister F. Pancreatic Epithelial IL17/IL17RA Signaling Drives B7-H4 Expression to Promote Tumorigenesis. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:1170-1183. [PMID: 38842383 PMCID: PMC11369627 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
IL17 is required for the initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer, particularly in the context of inflammation, as previously shown by genetic and pharmacological approaches. However, the cellular compartment and downstream molecular mediators of IL17-mediated pancreatic tumorigenesis have not been fully identified. This study examined the cellular compartment required by generating transgenic animals with IL17 receptor A (IL17RA), which was genetically deleted from either the pancreatic epithelial compartment or the hematopoietic compartment via generation of IL17RA-deficient (IL17-RA-/-) bone marrow chimeras, in the context of embryonically activated or inducible Kras. Deletion of IL17RA from the pancreatic epithelial compartment, but not from hematopoietic compartment, resulted in delayed initiation and progression of premalignant lesions and increased infiltration of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells to the tumor microenvironment. Absence of IL17RA in the pancreatic compartment affected transcriptional profiles of epithelial cells, modulating stemness, and immunological pathways. B7-H4, a known inhibitor of T-cell activation encoded by the gene Vtcn1, was the checkpoint molecule most upregulated via IL17 early during pancreatic tumorigenesis, and its genetic deletion delayed the development of pancreatic premalignant lesions and reduced immunosuppression. Thus, our data reveal that pancreatic epithelial IL17RA promotes pancreatic tumorigenesis by reprogramming the immune pancreatic landscape, which is partially orchestrated by regulation of B7-H4. Our findings provide the foundation of the mechanisms triggered by IL17 to mediate pancreatic tumorigenesis and reveal the avenues for early pancreatic cancer immune interception. See related Spotlight by Lee and Pasca di Magliano, p. 1130.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Castro-Pando
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Rian M. Howell
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Le Li
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Marilina Mascaro
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Erika Y. Faraoni
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Olivereen Le Roux
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - David Romanin
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Virginia Tahan
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Erick Riquelme
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jay K. Kolls
- Department of Medicine and Pediatrics, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana.
| | - James P. Allison
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Guillermina Lozano
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Seyed J. Moghaddam
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| | - Florencia McAllister
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
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3
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Lyu N, Dai Y, Wu J, Fan Y, Lyu Z, Gu J, Cheng J, Xu J. Multi-dataset identification of innovative feature genes and molecular mechanisms in keratoconus. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e70079. [PMID: 39300613 PMCID: PMC11412914 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.70079] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify feature genes and explore the molecular mechanisms of keratoconus (KC). We downloaded data files from NCBI GEO public database. The Limma package was used for differential expression analysis of gene profiles. Lasso regression was used to identify the feature genes. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to infer the proportion of immune-infiltrating cells and analyse the correlation between gene expression levels and immune cells. Related transcription factors and miRNAs of key genes were predicted using the Cistrome DB and Mircode databases. Analysis of expression differences in disease genes was based on the GeneCards database. The CMap was used to analyse targeted therapeutic drugs. IHC was performed to verify the expression levels of ATOH7 and MYRF in corneas. Exactly 593 upregulated and 473 downregulated genes were identified. Lasso regression analysis identified ATOH7, DBNDD1, RNF217-AS1, ARL11, MYRF and SNORA74B as feature genes for KC. All key genes were correlated with immune infiltration and the levels of activated memory CD4+ T cells and plasma cells were significantly increased. miRNA, IRF and STAT families were correlated to feature genes. The expression levels of key genes were significantly correlated to KC-related genes. Entinostat, ochratoxin-a, diphencyprone and GSK-3-inhibitor-II were predicted as potential KC medications. The expression of MYRF was significantly higher in the KC samples, contrary to the expression of ATOH7. KC is related to both immune infiltration and genetic factors. MYRF and ATOH7 were newly identified and verified feature genes of KC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Lyu
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yiqin Dai
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jiawen Wu
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yidan Fan
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyuan Lyu
- Graduate School of Transdisciplinary ArtsAkita UniversityAkitaJapan
| | - Jiayu Gu
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Cheng
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jianjiang Xu
- Eye Institute and Department of OphthalmologyEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and RestorationEye & ENT Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
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4
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Zeng L, Zhu Y, Cui X, Chi J, Uddin A, Zhou Z, Song X, Dai M, Cristofanilli M, Kalinsky K, Wan Y. Tuning Immune-Cold Tumor by Suppressing USP10/B7-H4 Proteolytic Axis Reinvigorates Therapeutic Efficacy of ADCs. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400757. [PMID: 39206932 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Tuning immune-cold tumor hot has largely attracted attention to improve cancer treatment, including immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Utilizing multiomic analyses and experimental validation, this work identifies a pivotal role for the USP10/B7-H4 proteolytic axis in mediating the interplay between tumor immune responses and ADC efficacy, particularly for sacituzumab govitecan (SG) in treating triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Mechanistically, the inhibition of autocrine motility factor receptor (AMFR)-mediated ubiquitylation of B7-H4 by the deubiquitinase USP10 leads to the stabilization of B7-H4, which suppresses tumor immune activity and reduces SG treatment effectiveness. Pharmacological inhibition of USP10 promotes the degradation of B7-H4, enhancing tumor immunogenicity and consequently improving the tumor-killing efficacy of SG. In preclinical TNBC models, suppression of USP10/B7-H4 proteolytic axis is effective in increasing SG killing efficacy and reducing tumor growth, especially for the tumors with the USP10high/B7-H7high signature. Collectively, these findings uncover a novel strategy for targeting the immunosuppressive molecule B7-H4 for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidan Zeng
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Yueming Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Xin Cui
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Junlong Chi
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- DGP graduate program, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Amad Uddin
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Zhuan Zhou
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Xinxin Song
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Mingji Dai
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Science, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | | | - Kevin Kalinsky
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Yong Wan
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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5
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Zhou L, Duan Y, Fu K, Zhang M, Li K, Yin R. The role of B7-H4 in ovarian cancer immunotherapy: current status, challenges, and perspectives. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1426050. [PMID: 39267740 PMCID: PMC11390377 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1426050] [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: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy stands as a critical and auspicious therapeutic approach in the fight against cancer nowadays. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, in particular, have garnered widespread employment and delivered groundbreaking therapeutic outcomes across various malignancies. However, the efficacy is unsatisfactory in the ovarian cancer. The pressing concerns of the substantial non-response rate require immediate attention. The pursuit of novel targets and the formulation of synergistic combination therapy approaches are imperative for addressing this challenge. B7-H4, a member of the B7 family of co-inhibitory molecules, exhibits high expression levels in ovarian cancer, correlating closely with tumor progression, drug resistance, and unfavorable prognosis. B7-H4 has the potential to serve as a valuable biomarker for evaluating the immune response of patients. Recent investigations and preclinical trials focusing on B7-H4 in the context of ovarian cancer immunotherapy highlight its emergence as a promising immunotherapeutic target. This review aims to discuss these findings and anticipate the future prospects of leveraging B7-H4 in ovarian cancer immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanqiong Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kaiyu Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengpei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kemin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rutie Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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6
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Yu J, Yan Y, Li S, Xu Y, Parolia A, Rizvi S, Wang W, Zhai Y, Xiao R, Li X, Liao P, Zhou J, Okla K, Lin H, Lin X, Grove S, Wei S, Vatan L, Hu J, Szumilo J, Kotarski J, Freeman ZT, Skala S, Wicha M, Cho KR, Chinnaiyan AM, Schon S, Wen F, Kryczek I, Wang S, Chen L, Zou W. Progestogen-driven B7-H4 contributes to onco-fetal immune tolerance. Cell 2024; 187:4713-4732.e19. [PMID: 38968937 PMCID: PMC11344674 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.06.012] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Immune tolerance mechanisms are shared in cancer and pregnancy. Through cross-analyzing single-cell RNA-sequencing data from multiple human cancer types and the maternal-fetal interface, we found B7-H4 (VTCN1) is an onco-fetal immune tolerance checkpoint. We showed that genetic deficiency of B7-H4 resulted in immune activation and fetal resorption in allogeneic pregnancy models. Analogously, B7-H4 contributed to MPA/DMBA-induced breast cancer progression, accompanied by CD8+ T cell exhaustion. Female hormone screening revealed that progesterone stimulated B7-H4 expression in placental and breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, progesterone receptor (PR) bound to a newly identified -58 kb enhancer, thereby mediating B7-H4 transcription via the PR-P300-BRD4 axis. PR antagonist or BRD4 degrader potentiated immunotherapy in a murine B7-H4+ breast cancer model. Thus, our work unravels a mechanistic and biological connection of a female sex hormone (progesterone) to onco-fetal immune tolerance via B7-H4 and suggests that the PR-P300-BRD4 axis is targetable for treating B7-H4+ cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yu
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yijian Yan
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shasha Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Abhijit Parolia
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Syed Rizvi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan School of Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Weichao Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yiwen Zhai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rongxin Xiao
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xiong Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Peng Liao
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jiajia Zhou
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Karolina Okla
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Heng Lin
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xun Lin
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sara Grove
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shuang Wei
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Linda Vatan
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jiantao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Justyna Szumilo
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jan Kotarski
- Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Zachary T Freeman
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Stephanie Skala
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Max Wicha
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kathleen R Cho
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Arul M Chinnaiyan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Samantha Schon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Fei Wen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan School of Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ilona Kryczek
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lieping Chen
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Weiping Zou
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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7
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Ma Y, Duan L, Reisch B, Kimmig R, Iannaccone A, Gellhaus A. Impact of the Immunomodulatory Factor Soluble B7-H4 in the Progress of Preeclampsia by Inhibiting Essential Functions of Extravillous Trophoblast Cells. Cells 2024; 13:1372. [PMID: 39195262 DOI: 10.3390/cells13161372] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
A key aspect of preeclampsia pathophysiology is the reduced invasiveness of trophoblasts and the impairment of spiral artery remodelling. Understanding the causes of altered trophoblast function is critical to understand the development of preeclampsia. B7-H4, a checkpoint molecule, controls a wide range of processes, including T-cell activation, cytokine release, and tumour progression. Our previous findings indicated that B7-H4 levels are elevated in both maternal blood and placental villous tissue during the early stages of preeclampsia. Here, we investigated the function of B7-H4 in trophoblast physiology. Recombinant B7-H4 protein was used to treat human SGHPL-5 extravillous trophoblast cells. Biological functions were investigated using MTT, wound healing, and transwell assays. Signalling pathways were analysed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. The functionality of B7-H4 was further confirmed by immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analysis in placental tissues from control and preeclamptic patients following therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) or standard of care treatment. This study showed that B7-H4 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities of SGHPL-5 extravillous cells while promoting apoptosis by downregulating the PI3K/Akt/STAT3 signalling pathway. These results were consistently confirmed in placental tissues from preterm controls compared to early-onset preeclamptic placental tissues from patients treated with standard of care or TPE treatment. B7-H4 may play a role in the development of preeclampsia by inhibiting essential functions of extravillous trophoblast cells during placental development. One possible mechanism by which TPE improves pregnancy outcomes in preeclampsia is through the elimination of B7-H4 amongst other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Ma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Liyan Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Beatrix Reisch
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Antonella Iannaccone
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
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8
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Lu Y, Sun Y, Zhang J, Kong M, Zhao Z, Sun B, Wang Y, Jiang Y, Chen S, Wang C, Tong Y, Wen L, Huang M, Wu F, Zhang L. The deubiquitinase USP2a promotes tumor immunosuppression by stabilizing immune checkpoint B7-H4 in lung adenocarcinoma harboring EGFR-activating mutants. Cancer Lett 2024; 596:217020. [PMID: 38849009 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217020] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
B7-H4 is an immune checkpoint crucial for inhibiting CD8+ T-cell activity. A clinical trial is underway to investigate B7-H4 as a potential immunotherapeutic agent. However, the regulatory mechanism of B7-H4 degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) remains poorly understood. In this study, we discovered that proteasome inhibitors effectively increased B7-H4 expression, while EGFR-activating mutants promoted B7-H4 expression through the UPP. We screened B7-H4 binding proteins by co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry and found that USP2a acted as a deubiquitinase of B7-H4 by removing K48- and K63-linked ubiquitin chains from B7-H4, leading to a reduction in B7-H4 degradation. EGFR mutants enhanced B7-H4 stability by upregulating USP2a expression. We further investigated the role of USP2a in tumor growth in vivo. Depletion of USP2a in L858R/LLC cells inhibited tumor cell proliferation, consequently suppressing tumor growth in immune-deficient nude mice by destabilizing downstream molecules such as Cyclin D1. In an immune-competent C57BL/6 mouse tumor model, USP2a abrogation facilitated infiltration of CD95+CD8+ effector T cells and hindered infiltration of Tim-3+CD8+ and LAG-3+CD8+ exhausted T cells by destabilizing B7-H4. Clinical lung adenocarcinoma samples showed a significant correlation between B7-H4 abundance and USP2a expression, indicating the contribution of the EGFR/USP2a/B7-H4 axis to tumor immunosuppression. In summary, this study elucidates the dual effects of USP2a in tumor growth by stabilizing Cyclin D1, promoting tumor cell proliferation, and stabilizing B7-H4, contributing to tumor immunosuppression. Therefore, USP2a represents a potential target for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwei Lu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Kong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Boshu Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Zhaxin Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaomu Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yin Tong
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liangzhu Wen
- He Cheng Biotechnology Suzhou Co.Ltd, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Moli Huang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fengying Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liang Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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9
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Yang XL, Zeng Z, Wang C, Wang GY, Zhang FQ. Prognostic model incorporating immune checkpoint genes to predict the immunotherapy efficacy for lung adenocarcinoma: a cohort study integrating machine learning algorithms. Immunol Res 2024; 72:851-863. [PMID: 38755433 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-024-09492-7] [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: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram based on immune checkpoint genes (ICGs) for predicting prognosis and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) efficacy in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. A total of 385 LUAD patients from the TCGA database and 269 LUAD patients in the combined dataset (GSE41272 + GSE50081) were divided into training and validation cohorts, respectively. Three different machine learning algorithms including random forest (RF), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression analysis, and support vector machine (SVM) were employed to select the predictive markers from 82 ICGs to construct the prognostic nomogram. The X-tile software was used to stratify patients into high- and low-risk subgroups based on the nomogram-derived risk scores. Differences in functional enrichment and immune infiltration between the two subgroups were assessed using gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and various algorithms. Additionally, three lung cancer cohorts receiving ICB therapy were utilized to evaluate the ability of the model to predict ICB efficacy in the real world. Five ICGs were identified as predictive markers across all three machine learning algorithms, leading to the construction of a nomogram with strong potential for prognosis prediction in both the training and validation cohorts (all AUC values close to 0.800). The patients were divided into high- (risk score ≥ 185.0) and low-risk subgroups (risk score < 185.0). Compared to the high-risk subgroup, the low-risk subgroup exhibited enrichment in immune activation pathways and increased infiltration of activated immune cells, such as CD8 + T cells and M1 macrophages (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the low-risk subgroup had a greater likelihood of benefiting from ICB therapy and longer progression-free survival (PFS) than did the high-risk subgroup (P < 0.05) in the two cohorts receiving ICB therapy. A nomogram based on ICGs was constructed and validated to aid in predicting prognosis and ICB treatment efficacy in LUAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Lin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Zeng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Yu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fu-Quan Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Dawidowicz M, Kot A, Mielcarska S, Psykała K, Kula A, Waniczek D, Świętochowska E. B7H4 Role in Solid Cancers: A Review of the Literature. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2519. [PMID: 39061159 PMCID: PMC11275172 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142519] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Anti-cancer immunotherapies entirely changed the therapeutic approach to oncological patients. However, despite the undeniable success of anti-PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 antibody treatments, their effectiveness is limited either by certain types of malignancies or by the arising problem of cancer resistance. B7H4 (aliases B7x, B7H4, B7S1, VTCN1) is a member of a B7 immune checkpoint family with a distinct expression pattern from classical immune checkpoint pathways. The growing amount of research results seem to support the thesis that B7H4 might be a very potent therapeutic target. B7H4 was demonstrated to promote tumour progression in immune "cold" tumours by promoting migration, proliferation of tumour cells, and cancer stem cell persistence. B7H4 suppresses T cell effector functions, including inflammatory cytokine production, cytolytic activity, proliferation of T cells, and promoting the polarisation of naïve CD4 T cells into induced Tregs. This review aimed to summarise the available information about B7H4, focusing in particular on clinical implications, immunological mechanisms, potential strategies for malignancy treatment, and ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Dawidowicz
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland
| | - Anna Kot
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Sylwia Mielcarska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Psykała
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kula
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland
| | - Dariusz Waniczek
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 41-808 Katowice, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Świętochowska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 19 Jordana, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
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11
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Liu J, Xu X, Zhong H, Yu M, Abuduaini N, Zhang S, Yang X, Feng B. Glycosylation and Its Role in Immune Checkpoint Proteins: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Implications. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1446. [PMID: 39062019 PMCID: PMC11274725 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071446] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint proteins have become recent research hotspots for their vital role in maintaining peripheral immune tolerance and suppressing immune response function in a wide range of tumors. Therefore, investigating the immunomodulatory functions of immune checkpoints and their therapeutic potential for clinical use is of paramount importance. The immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is an important component of cancer immunotherapy, as it targets inhibitory immune signaling transduction with antagonistic antibodies to restore the host immune response. Anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) monoclonal antibodies are two main types of widely used ICBs that drastically improve the survival and prognosis of many patients with cancer. Nevertheless, the response rate of most cancer types remains relatively low due to the drug resistance of ICBs, which calls for an in-depth exploration to improve their efficacy. Accumulating evidence suggests that immune checkpoint proteins are glycosylated in forms of N-glycosylation, core fucosylation, or sialylation, which affect multiple biological functions of proteins such as protein biosynthesis, stability, and interaction. In this review, we give a brief introduction to several immune checkpoints and summarize primary molecular mechanisms that modulate protein stability and immunosuppressive function. In addition, newly developed methods targeting glycosylation on immune checkpoints for detection used to stratify patients, as well as small-molecule agents disrupting receptor-ligand interactions to circumvent drug resistance of traditional ICBs, in order to increase the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy strategies of patients with cancer, are also included to provide new insights into scientific research and clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bo Feng
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200000, China; (J.L.); (X.X.); (H.Z.); (M.Y.); (N.A.); (S.Z.); (X.Y.)
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12
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Chen B, Liu J. Prospects and challenges of CAR-T in the treatment of ovarian cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112112. [PMID: 38640714 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112112] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer ranks as the seventh most prevalent cancer among women and is considered the most lethal gynecological malignancy on a global scale. The absence of reliable screening techniques, coupled with the insidious onset of nonspecific symptoms, often results in a delayed diagnosis, typically at an advanced stage characterized by peritoneal involvement. Management of advanced tumors typically involves a combination of chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery. However, the therapeutic arsenal for ovarian cancer patients remains limited, highlighting the unmet need for precise, targeted, and sustained-release pharmacological agents. Genetically engineered T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) represent a promising novel therapeutic modality that selectively targets specific antigens, demonstrating robust and enduring antitumor responses in numerous patients. CAR T cell therapy has exhibited notable efficacy in hematological malignancies and is currently under investigation for its potential in treating various solid tumors, including ovarian cancer. Currently, numerous researchers are engaged in the development of novel CAR-T cells designed to target ovarian cancer, with subsequent evaluation of these candidate cells in preclinical studies. Given the ability of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) expressing T cells to elicit potent and long-lasting anti-tumor effects, this therapeutic approach holds significant promise for the treatment of ovarian cancer. This review article examines the utilization of CAR-T cells in the context of ovarian cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biqing Chen
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
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13
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Yin N, Li X, Zhang X, Xue S, Cao Y, Niedermann G, Lu Y, Xue J. Development of pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer therapeutics: current mechanistic studies and clinical opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:126. [PMID: 38773064 PMCID: PMC11109181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01826-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy represented by anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 inhibitors has revolutionized cancer treatment, but challenges related to resistance and toxicity still remain. Due to the advancement of immuno-oncology, an increasing number of novel immunoregulatory targets and mechanisms are being revealed, with relevant therapies promising to improve clinical immunotherapy in the foreseeable future. Therefore, comprehending the larger picture is important. In this review, we analyze and summarize the current landscape of preclinical and translational mechanistic research, drug development, and clinical trials that brought about next-generation pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer agents and drug candidates beyond classical immune checkpoint inhibitors. Along with further clarification of cancer immunobiology and advances in antibody engineering, agents targeting additional inhibitory immune checkpoints, including LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT, CD47, and B7 family members are becoming an important part of cancer immunotherapy research and discovery, as are structurally and functionally optimized novel anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 agents and agonists of co-stimulatory molecules of T cells. Exemplified by bispecific T cell engagers, newly emerging bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies targeting immunoregulatory molecules can provide considerable clinical benefits. Next-generation agents also include immune epigenetic drugs and cytokine-based therapeutics. Cell therapies, cancer vaccines, and oncolytic viruses are not covered in this review. This comprehensive review might aid in further development and the fastest possible clinical adoption of effective immuno-oncology modalities for the benefit of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanhao Yin
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xintong Li
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xuanwei Zhang
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shaolong Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
- Institute of Disaster Medicine & Institute of Emergency Medicine, Sichuan University, No. 17, Gaopeng Avenue, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Gabriele Niedermann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site DKTK-Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Strasse 3, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - You Lu
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Jianxin Xue
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
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14
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Mitra A, Kumar A, Amdare NP, Pathak R. Current Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune Arsenal to Overcome Immune Evasion. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:307. [PMID: 38785789 PMCID: PMC11118874 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immune evasion represents a leading hallmark of cancer, posing a significant obstacle to the development of successful anticancer therapies. However, the landscape of cancer treatment has significantly evolved, transitioning into the era of immunotherapy from conventional methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Immunotherapy has emerged as a pivotal component in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to combat cancer and offering improved prognostic outcomes for numerous patients. The remarkable success of immunotherapy has spurred significant efforts to enhance the clinical efficacy of existing agents and strategies. Several immunotherapeutic approaches have received approval for targeted cancer treatments, while others are currently in preclinical and clinical trials. This review explores recent progress in unraveling the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of diverse immunotherapy strategies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and antibody-based treatments. It encompasses both established treatments and those currently under investigation, providing a comprehensive overview of efforts to combat cancer through immunological approaches. Additionally, the article emphasizes the current developments, limitations, and challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, by integrating analyses of cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and exploring combination strategies and personalized approaches, it offers valuable insights crucial for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Mitra
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin P. Amdare
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
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15
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Wescott EC, Sun X, Gonzalez-Ericsson P, Hanna A, Taylor BC, Sanchez V, Bronzini J, Opalenik SR, Sanders ME, Wulfkuhle J, Gallagher RI, Gomez H, Isaacs C, Bharti V, Wilson JT, Ballinger TJ, Santa-Maria CA, Shah PD, Dees EC, Lehmann BD, Abramson VG, Hirst GL, Brown Swigart L, van ˈt Veer LJ, Esserman LJ, Petricoin EF, Pietenpol JA, Balko JM. Epithelial Expressed B7-H4 Drives Differential Immunotherapy Response in Murine and Human Breast Cancer. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:1120-1134. [PMID: 38687247 PMCID: PMC11041871 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI, including anti-PD-1/PD-L1) and chemotherapy have been FDA approved for metastatic and early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but most patients do not benefit. B7-H4 is a B7 family ligand with proposed immunosuppressive functions being explored as a cancer immunotherapy target and may be associated with anti-PD-L1 resistance. However, little is known about its regulation and effect on immune cell function in breast cancers. We assessed murine and human breast cancer cells to identify regulation mechanisms of B7-H4 in vitro. We used an immunocompetent anti-PD-L1-sensitive orthotopic mammary cancer model and induced ectopic expression of B7-H4. We assessed therapy response and transcriptional changes at baseline and under treatment with anti-PD-L1. We observed B7-H4 was highly associated with epithelial cell status and transcription factors and found to be regulated by PI3K activity. EMT6 tumors with cell-surface B7-H4 expression were more resistant to immunotherapy. In addition, tumor-infiltrating immune cells had reduced immune activation signaling based on transcriptomic analysis. Paradoxically, in human breast cancer, B7-H4 expression was associated with survival benefit for patients with metastatic TNBC treated with carboplatin plus anti-PD-L1 and was associated with no change in response or survival for patients with early breast cancer receiving chemotherapy plus anti-PD-1. While B7-H4 induces tumor resistance to anti-PD-L1 in murine models, there are alternative mechanisms of signaling and function in human cancers. In addition, the strong correlation of B7-H4 to epithelial cell markers suggests a potential regulatory mechanism of B7-H4 independent of PD-L1. SIGNIFICANCE This translational study confirms the association of B7-H4 expression with a cold immune microenvironment in breast cancer and offers preclinical studies demonstrating a potential role for B7-H4 in suppressing response to checkpoint therapy. However, analysis of two clinical trials with checkpoint inhibitors in the early and metastatic settings argue against B7-H4 as being a mechanism of clinical resistance to checkpoints, with clear implications for its candidacy as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Wescott
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Xiaopeng Sun
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Paula Gonzalez-Ericsson
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Ann Hanna
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Brandie C. Taylor
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Violeta Sanchez
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Juliana Bronzini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Susan R. Opalenik
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Melinda E. Sanders
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Julia Wulfkuhle
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | - Rosa I. Gallagher
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | - Henry Gomez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas, Lima, Perú
| | - Claudine Isaacs
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Vijaya Bharti
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - John T. Wilson
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Tarah J. Ballinger
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Payal D. Shah
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth C. Dees
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Brian D. Lehmann
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Vandana G. Abramson
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Gillian L. Hirst
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Lamorna Brown Swigart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Laura J. van ˈt Veer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Laura J. Esserman
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Emanuel F. Petricoin
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia
| | - Jennifer A. Pietenpol
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Justin M. Balko
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Breast Cancer Research Program, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Cancer Biology Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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16
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Calmon MS, Lemos FFB, Silva Luz M, Rocha Pinheiro SL, de Oliveira Silva LG, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, Freire de Melo F. Immune pathway through endometriosis to ovarian cancer. World J Clin Oncol 2024; 15:496-522. [PMID: 38689629 PMCID: PMC11056862 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v15.i4.496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease, defined by the presence of functional endometrial tissue outside of the uterine cavity. This disease is one of the main gynecological diseases, affecting around 10%-15% women and girls of reproductive age, being a common gynecologic disorder. Although endometriosis is a benign disease, it shares several characteristics with invasive cancer. Studies support that it has been linked with an increased chance of developing endometrial ovarian cancer, representing an earlier stage of neoplastic processes. This is particularly true for women with clear cell carcinoma, low-grade serous carcinoma and endometrioid. However, the carcinogenic pathways between both pathologies remain poorly understood. Current studies suggest a connection between endometriosis and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOCs) via pathways associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and hyperestrogenism. This article aims to review current data on the molecular events linked to the development of EAOCs from endometriosis, specifically focusing on the complex relationship between the immune response to endometriosis and cancer, including the molecular mechanisms and their ramifications. Examining recent developments in immunotherapy and their potential to boost the effectiveness of future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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Dutsch-Wicherek MM, Bączkowska M, Knafel A, Sadowski P, Gałązka K, Lew-Starowicz M. An analysis of placental chorionic villous and decidual basalis tissue immunoreactivity in patients after cesarean section due to a placenta accreta spectrum disorder and elective cesarean section followed by the depressed mood. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024; 50:55-64. [PMID: 37909688 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15821] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
An analysis of placental chorionic villous and decidual basalis tissue immunoreactivity in patients after cesarean section due to a placenta accreta spectrum disorder and elective cesarean section followed by a depressed mood. RESEARCH BACKGROUND Over the past few years, interest in investigating immune dysfunction in patients with psychiatric disorders has increased. B7-H4 is a molecule with immunosuppressive properties that seems to play a key role in establishing maternal tolerance against fetal antigens. The aim of this study was to compare the B7-H4 immunoreactivity levels in patients after cesarean section. METHODS Placental and decidual tissue samples were obtained from 49 women who delivered at Bielański Hospital in Warsaw between 2009 and 2015. Fifteen of the patients developed postpartum depression and 14 had a diagnosis of placenta accreta spectrum. The control group consisted of 20 healthy patients on whom cesarean section was performed due to breech presentation at term. RESULTS The highest levels of B7-H4 immunoreactivity were found in the placental chorionic villous and decidual basalis tissue samples of the patients who later developed postpartum depression, while the lowest levels were found in the samples of those patients with a placenta accreta spectrum disorder. The difference between the B7-H4 immunoreactivity levels of these two groups was statistically significant. The B7-H4 expression levels were statistically significantly higher in the women in the postpartum depression group than in the control group. CONCLUSION Postpartum depression follows a disturbance of the suppressive milieu responsible for rebalancing the maternal immune system after the initial cytotoxic activation during labor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monika Bączkowska
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Knafel
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Sadowski
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gałązka
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Michał Lew-Starowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Wang B, Wang Z, Yang W, Han L, Huang Q, Yawalkar N, Zhang Z, Yao Y, Yan K. Unlocking the role of the B7-H4 polymorphism in psoriasis: Insights into methotrexate treatment outcomes: A prospective cohort study. Immunology 2024; 171:104-116. [PMID: 37814391 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13704] [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: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
B7-H4 is a recently discovered member of B7 family that negatively regulates T-cell immunity, specifically Th1 and Th17 cell responses. However, its role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis has yet to be determined. This study aims to investigate the effect of B7-H4 polymorphism on the efficacy of methotrexate (MTX) and its mechanism in psoriasis. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms of B7-H4 were genotyped in 310 psoriatic patients who received 12-week MTX. The protein expression of B7-H4 in platelets was characterized using immunofluorescence staining, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and flow cytometry techniques. We found that GG genotype carriers of B7-H4 rs1935780 had a lower Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 response rate and higher weight (p = 0.0245) and body mass index (p = 0.0185) than AA and AG genotype carriers. Multiple regression analysis showed that the PASI score at baseline (p = 0.01) and age at disease onset (p = 0.003) were positively correlated with PASI 75 response rate, while weight (p = 0.005) and the rs1935780 genotype (p = 0.003) were negatively associated with PASI 75 response rate. B7-H4 was expressed in the platelet plasma membrane and cytoplasm. Furthermore, the expression of B7-H4 protein in platelets was lower in good responders than in non-responders and was upregulated considerably after 12-week MTX or in vitro MTX stimulation in good responders. Collectively, these results demonstrate that psoriatic patients with GG genotype of B7-H4 rs1935780 had a poorer response to MTX. Low expression of B7-H4 protein in platelets correlated with better clinical outcomes of MTX in psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhicheng Wang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Han
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Huang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Nikhil Yawalkar
- Department of Dermatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Zhenghua Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kexiang Yan
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Dermatology, Shanghai, China
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Siqueira JM, Mitani Y, Hoff CO, Bonini F, Guimaraes de Sousa L, Marques-Piubelli ML, Purushothaman A, Mitani M, Dai H, Lin SY, Spiotto MT, Hanna EY, McGrail DJ, El-Naggar AK, Ferrarotto R. Analysis of B7-H4 Expression Across Salivary Gland Carcinomas Reveals Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma-Specific Prognostic Relevance. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100371. [PMID: 38015043 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100371] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
B7-H4 (VTCN1), a member of the B7 family, is overexpressed in several types of cancer. Here we investigated the pattern of expression of B7-H4 in salivary gland carcinomas (SGC) and assessed its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses were performed in a cohort of 340 patient tumors, composed of 124 adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC), 107 salivary duct carcinomas (SDC), 64 acinic cell carcinomas, 36 mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MEC), 9 secretory carcinomas (SC), as well as 20 normal salivary glands (controls). B7-H4 expression was scored and categorized into negative (<5% expression of any intensity), low (5%-70% expression of any intensity or >70% with weak intensity), or high (>70% moderate or strong diffuse intensity). The associations between B7-H4 expression and clinicopathologic characteristics, as well as overall survival, were assessed. Among all tumors, B7-H4 expression was more prevalent in ACC (94%) compared with those of SC (67%), MEC (44%), SDC (32%), and acinic cell carcinomas (0%). Normal salivary gland tissue did not express B7-H4. High expression of B7-H4 was found exclusively in ACC (27%), SDC (11%), and MEC (8%). In SDC, B7-H4 expression was associated with female gender (P = .002) and lack of androgen receptor expression (P = .012). In ACC, B7-H4 expression was significantly associated with solid histology (P < .0001) and minor salivary gland primary (P = .02). High B7-H4 expression was associated with a poorer prognosis in ACC, regardless of clinical stage and histologic subtype. B7-H4 expression was not prognostic in the non-ACC SGC evaluated. Our comparative study revealed distinct patterns of B7-H4 expression according to SGC histology, which has potential therapeutic implications. B7-H4 expression was particularly high in solid ACC and was an independent prognostic marker in this disease but not in the other SGC assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Mota Siqueira
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Stomatology, Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Yoshitsugu Mitani
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Camilla Oliveira Hoff
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Flavia Bonini
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Luana Guimaraes de Sousa
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mario L Marques-Piubelli
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anurag Purushothaman
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mutsumi Mitani
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Hui Dai
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Shiaw-Yih Lin
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Michael T Spiotto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ehab Y Hanna
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Daniel J McGrail
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Adel K El-Naggar
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Renata Ferrarotto
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
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20
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Qi Y, Huang X, Ji C, Wang C, Yao Y. The co-inhibitory immune checkpoint proteins B7-H1(PD-L1) and B7-H4 in high grade glioma: From bench to bedside. Transl Oncol 2024; 39:101793. [PMID: 37844479 PMCID: PMC10587763 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101793] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Co-inhibitory immune checkpoints play a crucial role in tumor progression, and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor has been a breakthrough for treating multiple refractory tumors in last decade. Nevertheless, results of several phase III clinical trials of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor are unsatisfactory in high grade gliomas recently. This article reviews the promising biomarkers which can predict the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade immunotherapy and current status of emerging strategies involving PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, especially the combination treatment and neoadjuvant PD-1 therapy in gliomas. In addition, B7-H4, one of the most promising immune checkpoints, is also briefly reviewed here for its clinical significance, regulatory mechanism and developing immunotherapeutic strategies in pre-clinical glioma models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Qi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China; Immunology Laboratory, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoming Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China; Immunology Laboratory, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunxia Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China; Immunology Laboratory, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yu Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, China; Immunology Laboratory, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Shanghai, China.
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21
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Najjary S, de Koning W, Kros JM, Mustafa DAM. Unlocking molecular mechanisms and identifying druggable targets in matched-paired brain metastasis of breast and lung cancers. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1305644. [PMID: 38149244 PMCID: PMC10750385 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1305644] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The incidence of brain metastases in cancer patients is increasing, with lung and breast cancer being the most common sources. Despite advancements in targeted therapies, the prognosis remains poor, highlighting the importance to investigate the underlying mechanisms in brain metastases. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in the molecular mechanisms involved in brain metastasis of breast and lung cancers. In addition, we aimed to identify cancer lineage-specific druggable targets in the brain metastasis. Methods To that aim, a cohort of 44 FFPE tissue samples, including 22 breast cancer and 22 lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and their matched-paired brain metastases were collected. Targeted gene expression profiles of primary tumors were compared to their matched-paired brain metastases samples using nCounter PanCancer IO 360™ Panel of NanoString technologies. Pathway analysis was performed using gene set analysis (GSA) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The validation was performed by using Immunohistochemistry (IHC) to confirm the expression of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Results Our results revealed the significant upregulation of cancer-related genes in primary tumors compared to their matched-paired brain metastases (adj. p ≤ 0.05). We found that upregulated differentially expressed genes in breast cancer brain metastasis (BM-BC) and brain metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma (BM-LUAD) were associated with the metabolic stress pathway, particularly related to the glycolysis. Additionally, we found that the upregulated genes in BM-BC and BM-LUAD played roles in immune response regulation, tumor growth, and proliferation. Importantly, we identified high expression of the immune checkpoint VTCN1 in BM-BC, and VISTA, IDO1, NT5E, and HDAC3 in BM-LUAD. Validation using immunohistochemistry further supported these findings. Conclusion In conclusion, the findings highlight the significance of using matched-paired samples to identify cancer lineage-specific therapies that may improve brain metastasis patients outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dana A. M. Mustafa
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, The Tumor Immuno-Pathology Laboratory, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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22
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Sabaie H, Tamimi P, Gharesouran J, Salkhordeh Z, Asadi MR, Sharifi-Bonab M, Shirvani-Farsani Z, Taheri M, Sayad A, Rezazadeh M. Expression analysis of inhibitory B7 family members in Alzheimer's disease. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:2563-2572. [PMID: 37665469 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01274-8] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a global health problem due to its complexity, which frequently makes the development of treatment methods extremely difficult. Therefore, new methodologies are necessary to investigate the pathophysiology of AD and to treat AD. The interaction of immune modulation and neurodegeneration has added new dimensions in current knowledge of AD etiology and offers an attractive opportunity for the discovery of novel biomarkers and therapies. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we compared the expression levels of inhibitory B7 family members (B7-1, B7-2, B7-H1, B7-DC, B7-H3, B7-H4, B7-H5, B7-H7, and ILDR2), as immune regulators, in the peripheral blood of late-onset AD (LOAD) patients (n = 50) and healthy individuals (n = 50). The levels of B7-2, B7-H4, ILDR2, and B7-DC expression were significantly higher in-patient blood samples than in control blood samples. Furthermore, we discovered a substantial positive correlation between all gene expression levels. In addition, the current study indicated that ILDR2, B7-H4, B7-2, and B7-DC might serve as diagnostic biomarkers to identify LOAD patients from healthy persons. The present work provides additional evidence for the significance of inhibitory B7 family members to the etiology of LOAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Sabaie
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parham Tamimi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jalal Gharesouran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zoha Salkhordeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Asadi
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mirmohsen Sharifi-Bonab
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Shirvani-Farsani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Arezou Sayad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Rezazadeh
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J. Alternative immune checkpoints in immunoregulatory profile of cancer stem cells. Heliyon 2023; 9:e23171. [PMID: 38144305 PMCID: PMC10746460 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23171] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-mediated bypass of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy with anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1), anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1, also called B7-H1 or CD274) or anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is a challenge of current years in the area of cancer immunotherapy. Alternative immune checkpoints (AICs) are molecules beyond the common PD-1, PD-L1 or CTLA-4, and are upregulated in patients who show low/no ICI responses. These are members of B7 family including B7-H2 (ICOS-L), B7-H3 (CD276), B7-H4 (B7x), V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), B7-H6, HHLA2 (B7-H5/B7-H7) and catabolic enzymes like indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), and others that are also contributed to the regulation of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). There is also strong evidence supporting the implication of AICs in regulation of cancer stemness and expanding the population of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs display immunoregulatory capacity and represent multiple immune checkpoints either on their surface or inside. Besides, they are active promoters of resistance to the common ICIs. The aim of this review is to investigate interrelations between AICs with stemness and differentiation profile of cancer. The key message of this paper is that targeted checkpoints can be selected based on their impact on CSCs along with their effect on immune cells. Studies published so far mainly focused on immune cells as a target for anti-checkpoints. Ex vivo engineering of extracellular vesicles (EVs) equipped with CSC-targeted anti-checkpoint antibodies is without a doubt a key therapeutic target that can be under consideration in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Jamal Majidpoor
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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24
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Sanuki F, Mikami Y, Nishimura H, Fujita Y, Monobe Y, Nomura T, Taira N, Moriya T. Immunohistological analysis of B7-H4, IDO1, and PD-L1 expression and tumor immune microenvironment based on triple-negative breast cancer subtypes. Breast Cancer 2023; 30:1041-1053. [PMID: 37642903 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-023-01498-7] [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: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND B7 homolog 4 (B7-H4) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1) are factors involved in the inhibition of antitumor activity and are new therapeutic targets for immune checkpoint therapy. Our study aimed to simultaneously investigate the interrelationship among B7-H4, IDO1 and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), including tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and TNBC subtypes. METHODS Immunostaining for PD-L1, B7-H4, and IDO1 was performed on whole-slide sections of 119 cases of TNBC. The TIME was evaluated based on stromal tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs; %), pattern classification of TILs, tumor-stroma ratio (TSR), and tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS). TNBC subtypes were also determined by immunohistochemistry analysis of cytokeratin 5/6 and androgen receptor (AR) expression. RESULTS B7-H4 expression was significantly higher in cases with a combined positive score cutoff of 5 for PD-L1 (clone 28-8; p = 0.021), inflamed TIL pattern (p = 0.007), and TLS ≥ 4 (p = 0.006). B7-H4 expression was higher in case of CK5/6 ≥ 10 (p = 0.035). The H-scores of AR and B7-H4 were inversely correlated (ρ = - 0.509, p < 0.001). B7-H4 and IDO1 expression levels were inversely correlated in cases with AR < 10 (ρ = - 0.354, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that considering the TIL pattern and TLS and identifying the expression of PD-L1 and the basal-like type are useful for estimating B7-H4 expression. In addition, luminal androgen receptor (LAR)-type is frequently deficient in B7-H4 expression. In non-LAR types, B7-H4 and IDO1 expression are exclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiaki Sanuki
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yuka Mikami
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Hirotake Nishimura
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fujita
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Monobe
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School General Medical Center, Okayama, Japan
| | - Tsunehisa Nomura
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Japan
| | - Naruto Taira
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Japan
| | - Takuya Moriya
- Department of Pathology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan.
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Gray E, Ulrich M, Epp A, Younan P, Sahetya D, Hensley K, Allred S, Huang LY, Hahn J, Gahnberg K, Treuting PM, Trueblood ES, Gosink JJ, Thurman R, Wo S, Spahr K, Haass EJ, Snead K, Miller D, Padilla M, Smith AJ, Frantz C, Schrum JP, Nazarenko N, Gardai SJ. SGN-B7H4V, an investigational vedotin ADC directed to the immune checkpoint ligand B7-H4, shows promising activity in preclinical models. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007572. [PMID: 37793853 PMCID: PMC10551938 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SGN-B7H4V is a novel investigational vedotin antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprising a B7-H4-directed human monoclonal antibody conjugated to the cytotoxic payload monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) via a protease-cleavable maleimidocaproyl valine citrulline (mc-vc) linker. This vedotin linker-payload system has been clinically validated in multiple Food and Drug Administration approved agents including brentuximab vedotin, enfortumab vedotin, and tisotumab vedotin. B7-H4 is an immune checkpoint ligand with elevated expression on a variety of solid tumors, including breast, ovarian, and endometrial tumors, and limited normal tissue expression. SGN-B7H4V is designed to induce direct cytotoxicity against target cells by binding to B7-H4 on the surface of target cells and releasing the cytotoxic payload MMAE upon internalization of the B7-H4/ADC complex. METHODS B7-H4 expression was characterized by immunohistochemistry across multiple solid tumor types. The ability of SGN-B7H4V to kill B7-H4-expressing tumor cells in vitro and in vivo in a variety of xenograft tumor models was also evaluated. Finally, the antitumor activity of SGN-B7H4V as monotherapy and in combination with an anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) agent was evaluated using an immunocompetent murine B7-H4-expressing Renca tumor model. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry confirmed B7-H4 expression across multiple solid tumors, with the highest prevalence in breast, endometrial, and ovarian tumors. In vitro, SGN-B7H4V killed B7-H4-expressing tumor cells by MMAE-mediated direct cytotoxicity and antibody-mediated effector functions including antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis. In vivo, SGN-B7H4V demonstrated strong antitumor activity in multiple xenograft models of breast and ovarian cancer, including xenograft tumors with heterogeneous B7-H4 expression, consistent with the ability of vedotin ADCs to elicit a bystander effect. In an immunocompetent murine B7-H4-expressing tumor model, SGN-B7H4V drove robust antitumor activity as a monotherapy that was enhanced when combined with an anti-PD-1 agent. CONCLUSION The immune checkpoint ligand B7-H4 is a promising molecular target expressed by multiple solid tumors. SGN-B7H4V demonstrates robust antitumor activity in preclinical models through multiple potential mechanisms. Altogether, these preclinical data support the evaluation of SGN-B7H4V as a monotherapy in the ongoing phase 1 study of SGN-B7H4V in advanced solid tumors (NCT05194072) and potential future clinical combinations with immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Serena Wo
- Seagen Inc, Bothell, Washington, USA
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Toader D, Fessler SP, Collins SD, Conlon PR, Bollu R, Catcott KC, Chin CN, Dirksen A, Du B, Duvall JR, Higgins S, Kozytska MV, Bellovoda K, Faircloth C, Lee D, Li F, Qin L, Routhier C, Shaw P, Stevenson CA, Wang J, Wongthida P, Ter-Ovanesyan E, Ditty E, Bradley SP, Xu L, Yin M, Yurkovetskiy AV, Mosher R, Damelin M, Lowinger TB. Discovery and Preclinical Characterization of XMT-1660, an Optimized B7-H4-Targeted Antibody-Drug Conjugate for the Treatment of Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:999-1012. [PMID: 37294948 PMCID: PMC10477829 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-22-0786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) achieve targeted drug delivery to a tumor and have demonstrated clinical success in many tumor types. The activity and safety profile of an ADC depends on its construction: antibody, payload, linker, and conjugation method, as well as the number of payload drugs per antibody [drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR)]. To allow for ADC optimization for a given target antigen, we developed Dolasynthen (DS), a novel ADC platform based on the payload auristatin hydroxypropylamide, that enables precise DAR-ranging and site-specific conjugation. We used the new platform to optimize an ADC that targets B7-H4 (VTCN1), an immune-suppressive protein that is overexpressed in breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. XMT-1660 is a site-specific DS DAR 6 ADC that induced complete tumor regressions in xenograft models of breast and ovarian cancer as well as in a syngeneic breast cancer model that is refractory to PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibition. In a panel of 28 breast cancer PDXs, XMT-1660 demonstrated activity that correlated with B7-H4 expression. XMT-1660 has recently entered clinical development in a phase I study (NCT05377996) in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorin Toader
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Shawn P. Fessler
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Scott D. Collins
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick R. Conlon
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Reddy Bollu
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kalli C. Catcott
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Chen-Ni Chin
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Anouk Dirksen
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Bingfan Du
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jeremy R. Duvall
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Stacy Higgins
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Mariya V. Kozytska
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kamela Bellovoda
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Chelsey Faircloth
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David Lee
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Fu Li
- Pheon Therapeutics, Cambridge MA 02139
| | - Liuliang Qin
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Caitlin Routhier
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Pamela Shaw
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Cheri A. Stevenson
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jason Wang
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Ditty
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Stephen P. Bradley
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ling Xu
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Mao Yin
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | - Rebecca Mosher
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Marc Damelin
- Mersana Therapeutics, Inc., 840 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Hashemi SF, Khorramdelazad H. The cryptic role of CXCL17/CXCR8 axis in the pathogenesis of cancers: a review of the latest evidence. J Cell Commun Signal 2023; 17:409-422. [PMID: 36352331 PMCID: PMC10409701 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-022-00699-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemokines are immune system mediators that mediate various activities and play a role in the pathogenesis of several cancers. Among these chemokines, C-X-C motif chemokine 17 (CXCL-17) is a relatively novel molecule produced along the airway epithelium in physiological and pathological conditions, and evidence shows that it plays a homeostatic role in most cases. CXCL17 has a protective role in some cancers and a pathological role in others, such as liver and lung cancer. This chemokine, along with its possible receptor termed G protein-coupled receptor 35 (GPR35) or CXCR8, are involved in recruiting myeloid cells, regulating angiogenesis, defending against pathogenic microorganisms, and numerous other mechanisms. Considering the few studies that have been performed on the dual role of CXCL17 in human malignancies, this review has investigated the possible pro-tumor and anti-tumor roles of this chemokine, as well as future treatment options in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
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28
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Seabury CM, Smith JL, Wilson ML, Bhattarai E, Santos JEP, Chebel RC, Galvão KN, Schuenemann GM, Bicalho RC, Gilbert RO, Rodriguez-Zas SL, Rosa G, Thatcher WW, Pinedo PJ. Genome-wide association and genomic prediction for a reproductive index summarizing fertility outcomes in U.S. Holsteins. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:jkad043. [PMID: 36848195 PMCID: PMC10468724 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Subfertility represents one major challenge to enhancing dairy production and efficiency. Herein, we use a reproductive index (RI) expressing the predicted probability of pregnancy following artificial insemination (AI) with Illumina 778K genotypes to perform single and multi-locus genome-wide association analyses (GWAA) on 2,448 geographically diverse U.S. Holstein cows and produce genomic heritability estimates. Moreover, we use genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) to investigate the potential utility of the RI by performing genomic predictions with cross validation. Notably, genomic heritability estimates for the U.S. Holstein RI were moderate (h2 = 0.1654 ± 0.0317-0.2550 ± 0.0348), while single and multi-locus GWAA revealed overlapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) on BTA6 and BTA29, including the known QTL for the daughter pregnancy rate (DPR) and cow conception rate (CCR). Multi-locus GWAA revealed seven additional QTL, including one on BTA7 (60 Mb) which is adjacent to a known heifer conception rate (HCR) QTL (59 Mb). Positional candidate genes for the detected QTL included male and female fertility loci (i.e. spermatogenesis and oogenesis), meiotic and mitotic regulators, and genes associated with immune response, milk yield, enhanced pregnancy rates, and the reproductive longevity pathway. Based on the proportion of the phenotypic variance explained (PVE), all detected QTL (n = 13; P ≤ 5e - 05) were estimated to have moderate (1.0% < PVE ≤ 2.0%) or small effects (PVE ≤ 1.0%) on the predicted probability of pregnancy. Genomic prediction using GBLUP with cross validation (k = 3) produced mean predictive abilities (0.1692-0.2301) and mean genomic prediction accuracies (0.4119-0.4557) that were similar to bovine health and production traits previously investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Seabury
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Johanna L Smith
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Miranda L Wilson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Eric Bhattarai
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Jose E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Ricardo C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Klibs N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Gustavo M Schuenemann
- Department of Veterinary Preventative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Rodrigo C Bicalho
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Rob O Gilbert
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ross University, St. Kitts, West Indies, KN
| | - Sandra L Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Guilherme Rosa
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - William W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Pablo J Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
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29
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de Sousa LG, McGrail DJ, Neto FL, Li K, Marques-Piubelli ML, Ferri-Borgogno S, Dai H, Mitani Y, Burr NS, Cooper ZA, Kinneer K, Cortez MA, Lin SY, Bell D, El-Naggar A, Burks J, Ferrarotto R. Spatial Immunoprofiling of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Reveals B7-H4 Is a Therapeutic Target for Aggressive Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:3162-3171. [PMID: 37256648 PMCID: PMC10526680 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a heterogeneous malignancy, and no effective systemic therapy exists for metastatic disease. We previously described two prognostic ACC molecular subtypes with distinct therapeutic vulnerabilities, ACC-I and ACC-II. In this study, we explored the ACC tumor microenvironment (TME) using RNA-sequencing and spatial biology to identify potential therapeutic targets. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Tumor samples from 62 ACC patients with available RNA-sequencing data that had been collected as part of previous studies were stained with a panel of 28 validated metal-tagged antibodies. Imaging mass cytometry (IMC) was performed using the Fluidigm Helios CyTOF instrument and analyzed with Visiopharm software. The B7-H4 antibody-drug conjugate AZD8205 was tested in ACC patient-derived xenografts (PDX). RESULTS RNA deconvolution revealed that most ACCs are immunologically "cold," with approximately 30% being "hot." ACC-I tumors with a poor prognosis harbored a higher density of immune cells; however, spatial analysis by IMC revealed that ACC-I immune cells were significantly restricted to the stroma, characterizing an immune-excluded TME. ACC-I tumors overexpressed the immune checkpoint B7-H4, and the degree of immune exclusion was directly correlated with B7-H4 expression levels, an independent predictor of poor survival. Two ACC-I/B7-H4-high PDXs obtained 90% complete responses to a single dose of AZD8205, but none were observed with isotype-conjugated payload or in an ACC-II/B7-H4 low PDX. CONCLUSIONS Spatial analysis revealed that ACC subtypes have distinct TMEs, with enrichment of ACC-I immune cells that are restricted to the stroma. B7-H4 is highly expressed in poor-prognosis ACC-I subtype and is a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana G de Sousa
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, United States
| | | | | | - Kaiyi Li
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, United States
| | | | - Sammy Ferri-Borgogno
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Hui Dai
- The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yoshitsugu Mitani
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Zachary A Cooper
- AstraZeneca (United States), Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
| | - Krista Kinneer
- AstraZeneca (United States), Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | | | - Shiaw-Yih Lin
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Diana Bell
- City of Hope Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Adel El-Naggar
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jared Burks
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Renata Ferrarotto
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, United States
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B7H4 Expression Is More Frequent in MSS Status Colorectal Cancer and Is Negatively Associated with Tumour Infiltrating Lymphocytes. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060861. [PMID: 36980202 PMCID: PMC10046962 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The immunotherapies based on ICIs in CRC are nowadays limited to microsatellite unstable tumours which are approximately 15% of all CRC cases. There are a few new immune checkpoints belonging to the B7 family, including B7H4. B7H4 expression is associated with so-called “cold tumours”, and its function is linked to the downregulation of various immune cell populations. Our study aimed to investigate whether B7H4 expression is dependent on microsatellite status in CRC and on elucidating the immunological context in which the expression of B7H4 occurs. We enrolled 167 patients in the study. We prepared the homogenates from tumour tissues and healthy adjacent tissue to assess the B7H4 levels and the Bio-Plex Pro Human 48-cytokine panel. We assessed the microsatellite status of the tumour, B7H4 expression, CD8+ T cell population, and the TILs and budding in H + E stained slides by the IHC method. We used an online available database for further exploring the biological characteristics of B7H4. The expression of B7H4 was more frequent in microsatellite stable tumours, and was negatively associated with TILs. B7H4 is positively correlated with antitumour immunosuppressive iTME, thus contributing to the immunosuppressive environment in CRC.
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31
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Zhu X, Fang Y, Chen Y, Chen Y, Hong W, Wei W, Tu J. Interaction of tumor-associated microglia/macrophages and cancer stem cells in glioma. Life Sci 2023; 320:121558. [PMID: 36889666 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121558] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Glioma is the most common tumor of the primary central nervous system, and its malignant phenotype has been shown to be closely related to glioma stem cells (GSCs). Although temozolomide has significantly improved the therapeutic outcome of glioma with a high penetration rate of the blood-brain barrier, resistance is often present in patients. Moreover, evidence has shown that the crosstalk between GSCs and tumor-associated microglia/macrophages (TAMs) affect the clinical occurrence, growth, and multi-tolerance of chemoradiotherapy in gliomas. Here, we highlight its vital roles in the maintenance of the stemness of GSCs and the ability of GSCs to recruit TAMs to the tumor microenvironment and promote their polarization into tumor-promoting macrophages, hence providing groundwork for future research into new treatment strategies of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangling Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yilong Fang
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yizhao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenming Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Jiajie Tu
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Truxova I, Cibula D, Spisek R, Fucikova J. Targeting tumor-associated macrophages for successful immunotherapy of ovarian carcinoma. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-005968. [PMID: 36822672 PMCID: PMC9950980 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is among the top five causes of cancer-related death in women, largely reflecting early, prediagnosis dissemination of malignant cells to the peritoneum. Despite improvements in medical therapies, particularly with the implementation of novel drugs targeting homologous recombination deficiency, the survival rates of patients with EOC remain low. Unlike other neoplasms, EOC remains relatively insensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitors, which is correlated with a tumor microenvironment (TME) characterized by poor infiltration by immune cells and active immunosuppression dominated by immune components with tumor-promoting properties, especially tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). In recent years, TAMs have attracted interest as potential therapeutic targets by seeking to reverse the immunosuppression in the TME and enhance the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy. Here, we review the key biological features of TAMs that affect tumor progression and their relevance as potential targets for treating EOC. We especially focus on the therapies that might modulate the recruitment, polarization, survival, and functional properties of TAMs in the TME of EOC that can be harnessed to develop superior combinatorial regimens with immunotherapy for the clinical care of patients with EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Cibula
- Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Spisek
- Sotio Biotech, Prague, Czech Republic,Department of Immunology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Fucikova
- Sotio Biotech, Prague, Czech Republic .,Department of Immunology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
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Yang J, Han F, Wu G, Dong Y, Su H, Xu J, Li J. Dysregulated B7H4/JAK2/STAT3 Pathway Involves in Hypertriglyceridemia Acute Pancreatitis and Is Attenuated by Baicalin. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:478-486. [PMID: 35781653 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07606-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) are prone to develop more severe acute pancreatitis (AP). However, the specific molecular mechanism still has not been elaborated clearly, and effective drugs for treating HTG-AP are not yet readily available. Baicalin is an ingredient isolated from a natural product that with potential to attenuate inflammation and pain in AP. AIMS The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of baicalin on HTG-AP and the possible mechanism involved. METHODS A mouse model of HTG-AP was successfully established by administering Poloxamer 407 and L-arginine intraperitoneally. We analyzed pathological changes, and performed TUNEL staining, DHE staining, and western blot to detect apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, and B7H4/JAK2/STAT3 signaling in the pancreas. RESULTS Treatment with baicalin decreased serum triglyceride, cholesterol, lipase, amylase levels, and attenuated pancreatic edema. After intervention with baicalin, apoptosis and inflammation in HTG-AP mice were alleviated, as indicated by the decrease of Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β. Baicalin also alleviated oxidative stress by decreasing NOX2, increasing SOD2 protein expression, and regulating Nrf2/Keap1 signaling in HTG-AP mice. Furthermore, baicalin decreased the upregulated B7H4/JAK2/STAT3 pathway in HTG-AP. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our data suggested that baicalin could attenuate HTG-AP, possibly through regulating B7H4/JAK2/STAT3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Fei Han
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Guanghai Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
| | - Ya Dong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Hang Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
| | - Jun Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China.
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Effect of B7-H4 downregulation induced by Toxoplasma gondii infection on dysfunction of decidual macrophages contributes to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:464. [PMID: 36514159 PMCID: PMC9746109 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05560-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy can lead to fetal defect(s) or congenital complications. The inhibitory molecule B7-H4 expressed on decidual macrophages (dMφ) plays an important role in maternal-fetal tolerance. However, the effect of B7-H4 on the function of dMφ during T. gondii infection remains unclear. METHODS Changes in B7-H4 expression on dMφ after T. gondii infection were explored both in vivo and in vitro. B7-H4-/- pregnant mice (pregnant mice with B7-H4 gene knockout) and purified primary human dMφ treated with B7-H4 neutralizing antibody were used to explore the role of B7-H4 signaling on regulating the membrane molecules, synthesis of arginine metabolic enzymes and cytokine production by dMφ with T. gondii infection. Also, adoptive transfer of dMφ from wild-type (WT) pregnant mice or B7-H4-/- pregnant mice to infected B7-H4-/- pregnant mice was used to examine the effect of B7-H4 on adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii infection. RESULTS The results illustrated that B7-H4-/- pregnant mice infected by T. gondii had poorer pregnancy outcomes than their wild-type counterparts. The expression of B7-H4 on dMφ significantly decreased after T. gondii infection, which resulted in the polarization of dMφ from the M2 toward the M1 phenotype by changing the expression of membrane molecules (CD80, CD86, CD163, CD206), synthesis of arginine metabolic enzymes (Arg-1, iNOS) and production of cytokines (IL-10, TNF-α) production. Also, we found that the B7-H4 downregulation after T. gondii infection increased iNOS and TNF-α expression mediated through the JAK2/STAT1 signaling pathway. In addition, adoptive transfer of dMφ from a WT pregnant mouse donor rather than from a B7-H4-/- pregnant mouse donor was able to improve adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii infection. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrated that the downregulation of B7-H4 induced by T. gondii infection led to the dysfunction of decidual macrophages and contributed to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Moreover, adoptive transfer of B7-H4+ dMφ could improve adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii infection.
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Xiao L, Guan X, Xiang M, Wang Q, Long Q, Yue C, Chen L, Liu J, Liao C. B7 family protein glycosylation: Promising novel targets in tumor treatment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1088560. [PMID: 36561746 PMCID: PMC9763287 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1088560] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, including the inhibition of immune checkpoints, improves the tumor immune microenvironment and is an effective tool for cancer therapy. More effective and alternative inhibitory targets are critical for successful immune checkpoint blockade therapy. The interaction of the immunomodulatory ligand B7 family with corresponding receptors induces or inhibits T cell responses by sending co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory signals respectively. Blocking the glycosylation of the B7 family members PD-L1, PD-L2, B7-H3, and B7-H4 inhibited the self-stability and receptor binding of these immune checkpoint proteins, leading to immunosuppression and rapid tumor progression. Therefore, regulation of glycosylation may be the "golden key" to relieve tumor immunosuppression. The exploration of a more precise glycosylation regulation mechanism and glycan structure of B7 family proteins is conducive to the discovery and clinical application of antibodies and small molecule inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Xiao
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Guan
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Mingli Xiang
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Qian Long
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Chaoyi Yue
- School of Medicine and Technology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Lulu Chen
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jianguo Liu
- Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,*Correspondence: Chengcheng Liao, ; Jianguo Liu,
| | - Chengcheng Liao
- Department of Orthodontics II, Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,Oral Disease Research Key Laboratory of Guizhou Tertiary Institution, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China,*Correspondence: Chengcheng Liao, ; Jianguo Liu,
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Chen X, Li J, Chen Y, Que Z, Du J, Zhang J. B7 Family Members in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Attractive Targets for Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315005. [PMID: 36499340 PMCID: PMC9740860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315005] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 5-10%. The immune checkpoint blockade represented by PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has been effective in a variety of solid tumors but has had little clinical response in pancreatic cancer patients. The unique suppressive immune microenvironment is the primary reason for this outcome, and it is essential to identify key targets to remodel the immune microenvironment. Some B7 family immune checkpoints, particularly PD-L1, PD-L2, B7-H3, B7-H4, VISTA and HHLA2, have been identified as playing a significant role in the control of tumor immune responses. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the recent research progress of some members of the B7 family in pancreatic cancer, which revealed that they can be involved in tumor progression through immune-dependent and non-immune-dependent pathways, highlighting the mechanisms of their involvement in tumor immune escape and assessing the prospects of their clinical application. Targeting B7 family immune checkpoints is expected to result in novel immunotherapeutic treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ziting Que
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiawei Du
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jianqiong Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-83272314
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Yang M, Tian S, Lin Z, Fu Z, Li C. Costimulatory and coinhibitory molecules of B7-CD28 family in cardiovascular atherosclerosis: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31667. [PMID: 36397436 PMCID: PMC9666218 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports the active involvement of vascular inflammation in atherosclerosis pathogenesis. Vascular inflammatory events within atherosclerotic plaques are predominated by innate antigen-presenting cells (APCs), including dendritic cells, macrophages, and adaptive immune cells such as T lymphocytes. The interaction between APCs and T cells is essential for the initiation and progression of vascular inflammation during atherosclerosis formation. B7-CD28 family members that provide either costimulatory or coinhibitory signals to T cells are important mediators of the cross-talk between APCs and T cells. The balance of different functional members of the B7-CD28 family shapes T cell responses during inflammation. Recent studies from both mouse and preclinical models have shown that targeting costimulatory molecules on APCs and T cells may be effective in treating vascular inflammatory diseases, especially atherosclerosis. In this review, we summarize recent advances in understanding how APC and T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis by focusing on B7-CD28 family members and provide insight into the immunotherapeutic potential of targeting B7-CD28 family members in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Electrophysiological Center of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Simeng Tian
- Basic Medicine College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhoujun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenkun Fu
- Basic Medicine College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Wu Lien-Teh Institute, Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Infection and Immunity, Harbin Medical University, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
- * Correspondence: Zhenkun Fu, Basic Medicine College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China (e-mail. ); Chenggang Li, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (e-mail. )
| | - Chenggang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- * Correspondence: Zhenkun Fu, Basic Medicine College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China (e-mail. ); Chenggang Li, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (e-mail. )
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Kuwatani M, Sakamoto N. Pathological and molecular diagnoses of early cancer with bile and pancreatic juice. Dig Endosc 2022; 34:1340-1355. [PMID: 35543333 DOI: 10.1111/den.14348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The dismal prognosis of pancreaticobiliary malignancies is mainly attributed to the extremely difficult detection of early-stage lesions, including intraepithelial neoplasia. To improve prognosis, several studies on the early detection of cancer have been conducted using bile and pancreatic juices for pathological or molecular analyses. One approach is liquid biopsy that includes information about the tumor, such as circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, microRNAs, and exosomes released by the tumor. Another approach is proteomics/metabolomics that reflects specific conditions in the tumor. These two approaches lead to artificial intelligence-based multiomics analyses that comprises genomics, proteomics/metabolomics, and transcriptomics. Based on the findings of molecular analysis, pathological analysis using immunohistochemical staining/fluorescence in situ hybridization has also been developed. Moreover, there have been reports of new methods/ingenuities for obtaining appropriate samples for the diagnosis of early-stage cancer. Here we review the knowledge on cutting-edge pathological and molecular analyses of bile and pancreatic juices, introduce some ingenuities in sampling and sample processing to promote effective clinical practice, and provide a basis for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Kuwatani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Naoya Sakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
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Gao Z, Ling X, Shi C, Wang Y, Lin A. Tumor immune checkpoints and their associated inhibitors. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2022; 23:823-843. [PMID: 36226537 PMCID: PMC9561405 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2200195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Immunological evasion is one of the defining characteristics of cancers, as the immune modification of an immune checkpoint (IC) confers immune evasion capabilities to tumor cells. Multiple ICs, such as programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4), can bind to their respective receptors and reduce tumor immunity in a variety of ways, including blocking immune cell activation signals. IC blockade (ICB) therapies targeting these checkpoint molecules have demonstrated significant clinical benefits. This is because antibody-based IC inhibitors and a variety of specific small molecule inhibitors can inhibit key oncogenic signaling pathways and induce durable tumor remission in patients with a variety of cancers. Deciphering the roles and regulatory mechanisms of these IC molecules will provide crucial theoretical guidance for clinical treatment. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the functional and regulatory mechanisms of these IC molecules at multiple levels, including epigenetic regulation, transcriptional regulation, and post-translational modifications. In addition, we provide a summary of the medications targeting various nodes in the regulatory pathway, and highlight the potential of newly identified IC molecules, focusing on their potential implications for cancer diagnostics and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerui Gao
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Chu Kochen Honors College of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xingyi Ling
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chengyu Shi
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Wang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Aifu Lin
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystem Homeostasis and Protection, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Breast Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
- International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China.
- ZJU-QILU Joint Research Institute, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Tamburini BAJ. Contributions of PD-L1 reverse signaling to dendritic cell trafficking. FEBS J 2022; 289:6256-6266. [PMID: 34146376 PMCID: PMC8684559 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) interactions are critical for dampening the immune response to both self and foreign antigens. The signaling of PD-L1 via its cytoplasmic domain, rather than through its interactions with PD-1 via the extracellular domain, has been termed PD-L1 reverse signaling. While this signaling is beneficial for cancer progression, little is understood about the consequences of PD-L1 reverse signaling in immune cells that express PD-L1 at steady state or in response to infection. Loss of PD-L1 during infection leads to unchecked T-cell proliferation and increased autoimmune T-cell responses. While the T-cell intrinsic role of PD-1 for inhibiting T-cell responses has been well explored, little to no effort has been directed at investigating the consequences of PD-L1 reverse signaling on the DCs interacting with PD-1+ T cells. We recently reported a defect in dendritic cell (DC) trafficking from the skin to the draining lymph node (LN) following immunization or infection in the absence of PD-L1. We demonstrated that a region within the cytoplasmic tail was responsible for the defect in DC trafficking. Here, we review the processes involved in DC trafficking and highlight what we know about PD-L1 expression, PD-L1 post-translational modifications, PD-L1 intracellular interactions, and PD-L1 extracellular interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Ann Jirón Tamburini
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora, CO, USA
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Duan L, Reisch B, Mach P, Kimmig R, Gellhaus A, Iannaccone A. The immunological role of b7-h4 in pregnant women with sars-cov2 infection. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13626. [PMID: 36121927 PMCID: PMC9538547 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13626] [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: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem T‐cells are key players in fighting the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The checkpoint molecule B7‐H4, a member of the B7 family, can inhibit T‐cell activation and proliferation by inhibiting NF‐kb expression. We aimed to elucidate the immunological role of soluble B7‐H4 (sB7‐H4) and B7‐H4 in pregnant women suffered from an acute Sars‐Cov2 infection. Methods Expression levels of sB7‐H4 and cytokines were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. B7‐H4 and cytokines mRNA expression was analyzed by qPCR, and B7‐H4 and NF‐κb (p65) protein levels were investigated by western blot and immunofluorescence staining in placenta chorionic villous and decidual basalis tissues of COVID‐19 affected women and healthy controls. Results Fibrinoid necrosis in the periphery of placental villi was increased in the COVID‐19‐affected patients. sB7‐H4 protein in maternal and cord blood serum and IL‐6/IL‐10 were increased while leukocytes were decreased during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Serum sB7‐H4 level was increased according to the severity of SARS‐Cov‐2 infection. Cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐18, IL‐1β, TNF‐α), B7‐H4 mRNA and protein in the decidual basalis tissues of COVID‐19‐infected pregnant women were significantly increased compared to healthy controls. IL‐18 and IL‐1β were significantly increased in the placenta chorionic villous samples of COVID‐19 affected patients, while NF‐κb (p65) expression was decreased. Conclusions The expression of the immunological marker sB7‐H4 correlated with the severity of COVID‐19 disease in pregnant women. sB7‐H4 and B7‐H4 can be used to monitor the progression of COVID‐19 infection during pregnancy, and for evaluating of the maternal immune status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Beatrix Reisch
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Pawel Mach
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Antonella Iannaccone
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Xiang X, Wu Y, Lv XQ, Xu RQ, Liu Y, Pan SH, He M, Lai GQ. Hepatitis B Virus Infection Promotes M2 Polarization of Macrophages by Upregulating the Expression of B7x In Vivo and In Vitro. Viral Immunol 2022; 35:597-608. [PMID: 36099202 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have reported that hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is mediated by macrophages and that the B7x (B7-H4, VTCN-1) protein plays an important role in immune regulation in HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC). However, the relationship among HBV, macrophages, and B7x has not been studied. In this study, HBV-infected mouse model and coculture of HBV cell lines and macrophages were used to observe the changes in macrophages and the role of B7x after HBV infection. The expression of HBV markers (HBeAg, HBsAg), negative regulator of immunity (B7x), T-helper 17 (Th17)/T-regulatory (Treg)-related cytokines, and macrophage markers, as well as changes in the apoptosis and cell cycle of macrophages were analyzed through reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blot, and flow cytometry. The expression of HBsAg, HBeAg, and B7x increased and the levels of macrophage surface marker and Treg cells secrete related cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β) were altered after HBV infection both in vivo and in vitro. Apoptosis of macrophages increased, and cell cycle arrest occurred in vitro. These effects, except those in the cell cycle, were reversed when B7x was knocked down. Thus, HBV infection can promote the expression of B7x, which in turn regulates the Th17/Treg balance and affects the expression of HBsAg and HBeAg. The mechanism used by B7x likely involves the promotion of macrophage polarization and apoptosis. These results suggest that B7x is a novel target for HBV immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Xiang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Lv
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ru-Qing Xu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Suo-Han Pan
- The First Clinical College of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Miao He
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-Qi Lai
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1): A potential target for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152274. [PMID: 36095871 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmunity eventuates when the immune system attacks self-molecules as a result of the breakdown in immune tolerance. Targeting autoimmune diseases via immunomodulation has become an essential strategy in today's era. A B7 superfamily member immune checkpoint, the V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1), also known as B7-H4, B7S1, and B7x, is involved in negatively regulating T-cell activation. VTCN1 transcript has been reported in various lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues, but its protein expression is restricted, indicating its translational regulation. Dysregulation of VTCN1 has resulted in the exacerbation of various autoimmune diseases. Moreover, increased soluble form of VTCN1 in the patient's sera positively correlates with the disease progression and severity. The current review summarizes all the reports till date, unfolding the role of VTCN1 in various autoimmune diseases and its therapeutic potential.
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Ren X, Li Y, Nishimura C, Zang X. Crosstalk between the B7/CD28 and EGFR pathways: Mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2022; 9:1181-1193. [PMID: 35873032 PMCID: PMC9293717 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic activating mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are one of the most common oncogenic drivers in cancers such as non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), metastatic colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, head and neck cancer, pancreatic cancer, and breast cancer. Molecular-targeted agents against EGFR signaling pathways have shown robust clinical efficacy, but patients inevitably experience acquired resistance. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have exhibited durable anti-tumor responses in a subset of patients across multiple cancer types, their efficacy is limited in cancers harboring activating gene alterations of EGFR. Increasing studies have demonstrated that upregulation of new B7/CD28 family members such as B7-H3, B7x and HHLA2, is associated with EGFR signaling and may contribute to resistance to EGFR-targeted therapies by creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we discuss the regulatory effect of EGFR signaling on the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and new B7/CD28 family member pathways. Understanding these interactions may inform combination therapeutic strategies and potentially overcome the current challenge of resistance to EGFR-targeted therapies. We also summarize clinical data of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies in EGFR-mutated cancers, as well as ongoing clinical trials of combination of EGFR-targeted therapies and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxin Ren
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Yixian Li
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Christopher Nishimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.,Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.,Department of Urology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
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Li B, Jiang C, Xu Y, Fan X, Yang L, Zou B, Fan B, Wang L. Genome-wide DNA methylation signature predict clinical benefit of bevacizumab in non-small cell lung cancer. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:828. [PMID: 35906610 PMCID: PMC9338664 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09918-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The efficacy of bevacizumab in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients is unsatisfactory, and the selection of suitable patients is still challenging. Given the epigenetic modifications can contribute to an aberrant regulation of angiogenesis and microenvironment, we investigated DNA methylation profiles to determine clinical benefit of bevacizumab in NSCLC patients. Methods Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling was performed in NSCLC patients treated with chemotherapy in combination with bevacizumab. Patients were divided into better prognosis group (A group) and inferior prognosis group (B group) based on their survival. The difference of methylation patterns and respective functional enrichment analysis were performed between two groups. Prognostic DNA methylation signature for bevacizumab was established with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analyses. TISIDB database was further used to infer immunological relationship for prognostic related DNA methylation. Results Twenty patients were included in this study, and significantly distinct methylation patterns were observed between patients with different prognosis. Related genes of different methylation regions were significantly enriched in the biological process of cell projection assembly, neutrophil mediated immunity, and pathway of VEGFA-VEGFR2 signaling pathway, neutrophil degranulation. A 10-gene DNA methylation signature for prognosis prediction was established with the C-index of 0.76. And host genes of signature were found to be related to the abundance of ActCD4, Th1, ActCD8, NKT and neutrophil cells. Conclusion The 10-gene DNA methylation signature could serve as a novel biomarker to predict the clinical benefit of bevacizumab therapy and improve this anti-tumor approach for NSCLC patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09918-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Butuo Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Jiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yiyue Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Xinyu Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Linlin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Bing Zou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Bingjie Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 440 Jiyan Road, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China.
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Hassanian H, Asadzadeh Z, Baghbanzadeh A, Derakhshani A, Dufour A, Rostami Khosroshahi N, Najafi S, Brunetti O, Silvestris N, Baradaran B. The expression pattern of Immune checkpoints after chemo/radiotherapy in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:938063. [PMID: 35967381 PMCID: PMC9367471 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.938063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As a disease with the highest disease-associated burden worldwide, cancer has been the main subject of a considerable proportion of medical research in recent years, intending to find more effective therapeutic approaches with fewer side effects. Combining conventional methods with newer biologically based treatments such as immunotherapy can be a promising approach to treating different tumors. The concept of "cancer immunoediting" that occurs in the field of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is the aspect of cancer therapy that has not been at the center of attention. One group of the role players of the so-called immunoediting process are the immune checkpoint molecules that exert either co-stimulatory or co-inhibitory effects in the anti-tumor immunity of the host. It involves alterations in a wide variety of immunologic pathways. Recent studies have proven that conventional cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of them, i.e., chemoradiotherapy, alter the "immune compartment" of the TME. The mentioned changes encompass a wide range of variations, including the changes in the density and immunologic type of the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and the alterations in the expression patterns of the different immune checkpoints. These rearrangements can have either anti-tumor immunity empowering or immune attenuating sequels. Thus, recognizing the consequences of various chemo(radio)therapeutic regimens in the TME seems to be of great significance in the evolution of therapeutic approaches. Therefore, the present review intends to summarize how chemo(radio)therapy affects the TME and specifically some of the most important, well-known immune checkpoints' expressions according to the recent studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Hassanian
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Asadzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Afshin Derakhshani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- McCaig Insitute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, and Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Antoine Dufour
- McCaig Insitute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, and Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Souzan Najafi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Oronzo Brunetti
- Medical Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Silvestris
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi” University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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The Regulatory Effects of MicroRNAs on Tumor Immunity. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2121993. [PMID: 35909469 PMCID: PMC9329000 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2121993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are endogenous noncoding small RNAs that posttranscriptionally regulate the expressions of their target genes. Accumulating research shows that miRNAs are crucial regulators of immune cell growth and antitumor immune response. Studies on miRNAs and tumors primarily focus on the tumor itself. At the same time, relatively few studies on the indirect regulatory effects of miRNAs in the development of tumors are achieved by affecting the immune system of tumor hosts and altering their immune responses. This review discusses the influence of miRNAs on the antitumor immune system.
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Vaishnav J, Jadeja SD, Singh M, Khan F, Yadav M, Begum R. Altered Levels of Negative Costimulatory Molecule V-Set Domain-Containing T-Cell Activation Inhibitor-1 (VTCN1) and Metalloprotease Nardilysin (NRD1) are Associated with Generalized Active Vitiligo. Immunol Invest 2022; 51:2035-2052. [PMID: 35815687 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2022.2097091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitiligo is characterized by depigmented macules on the skin caused due to autoimmune destruction of melanocytes. V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor-1 (VTCN1) is a negative costimulatory molecule that plays a vital role in suppressing autoimmunity and tuning immune response. Nardilysin (NRD1), a metalloproteinase, cleaves membrane-tethered VTCN1 resulting in the shedding of soluble-VTCN1 (sVTCN1). However, the role of VTCN1 and NRD1 in vitiligo pathogenesis is unexplored. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS This study was aimed to (i) Investigate the association of VTCN1 intronic polymorphisms (rs10923223 T/C and rs12046117 C/T) with vitiligo susceptibility in Gujarat population by using Polymerase Chain Reaction- Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) (ii) Estimate VTCN1 & NRD1 transcript levels from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and skin samples of vitiligo patients by real-time PCR, (iii) Estimate sVTCN1 and NRD1 protein levels from plasma by ELISA and (iv) Estimate VTCN1 protein levels in the skin samples of vitiligo patients by immunofluorescence. RESULTS The analysis revealed increased VTCN1 and NRD1 transcript levels in the skin (p = .039, p = .021 respectively), increased sVTCN1 and NRD1 levels (p = .026, p = .015 respectively) in the plasma, and decreased VTCN1 protein levels (p = .0002) in the skin of vitiligo patients as compared to healthy controls. The genetic analysis revealed no significant association of VTCN1 intronic polymorphisms rs10923223 T/C and rs12046117 C/T with vitiligo susceptibility in Gujarat population (p = .359, p = .937, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed altered VTCN1 and NRD1 expressions in the blood and skin of vitiligo patients, suggesting their potential role in the development and progression of Vitiligo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayvadan Vaishnav
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
| | - Shahnawaz D Jadeja
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
| | - Mala Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
| | - Farheen Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
| | - Madhu Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
| | - Rasheedunnisa Begum
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India
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Wang F, Chu W, Deng Z, Jing Q, Xie B. A Potential Role of B7-H4 Expression in Predicting the Recurrence of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:3421-3431. [PMID: 35711239 PMCID: PMC9192352 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s361868] [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: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (CRSwNP) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal cavity and sinuses with a high rate of postoperative recurrence. In this study, we aim to investigate the expression of B7-H4 in CRSwNP and its association with postoperative recurrence. Methods A total of 80 CRSwNP patients, including 40 primary CRSwNP (pCRSwNP) patients and 40 recurrent CRSwNP (rCRSwNP) patients, 27 chronic rhinosinusitis without polyps (CRSsNP) and 32 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled in this study, and the serum, nasal polyps and middle turbinate tissue samples were collected. Peripheral and tissue B7-H4 expressions were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence, and their clinical values in predicting postoperative recurrence of CRSwNP were evaluated. Results We identified significantly higher tissue B7-H4 mRNA levels in the CRSwNP group than in the HC group, and elevated B7-H4 levels were associated with tissue eosinophil count and percentage (r = 0.469, P < 0.001; r = 0.521, P < 0.001). B7-H4 mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher in the rCRSwNP group than the pCRSwP group. Multivariate analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that tissue B7-H4 levels were associated with postoperative recurrence in patients with CRSwNP (P < 0.05). In addition, serum B7-H4 levels were significantly increased in the CRSwNP group than the CRS and HC groups, especially in the rCRSwNP group (P < 0.05), and the ROC curve presented a predictive ability of serum B7-H4 in predicting postoperative recurrence. Conclusion Our results indicated that B7-H4 level was clearly enhanced in CRSwNP patients and associated with postoperative recurrence. Serum B7-H4 might serve as a simple and convenient biomarker for early predicting postoperative recurrence in CRwNP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Chu
- Department of Pathology, The People's Hospital of Shimen County, Changde, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenghao Deng
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiancheng Jing
- The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Xie
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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50
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Liu Z, Jin K, Zeng H, Shao F, Chang Y, Wang Y, Xu L, Wang Z, Cui X, Zhu Y, Xu J. B7-H4 correlates with clinical outcome and immunotherapeutic benefit in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Eur J Cancer 2022; 171:133-142. [PMID: 35717821 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM B7-H4, a sibling to PD-L1 in B7 family, has been reported to be a novel immune checkpoint that is prevalent among non-inflamed tumors. Herein, we attempt to explore the potential of B7-H4 in survival prediction and therapeutic guidance in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients. METHODS This study included 391 patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and 122 patients from Zhongshan (ZS) Hospital. The evaluation of response to PD-L1 inhibitors was based on 270 patients in IMvigor210 cohort. Kaplan-Meier survival and multivariate analyses were performed to assess clinical outcomes in three cohorts. The correlation of B7-H4 expression with immune contexture and genomic alterations was analyzed based on immunohistochemistry, Microenvironment Cell Populations-counter (MCP-counter) tool, and whole-exome sequencing. RESULTS MIBC patients with the high level of B7-H4 expression (B7-H4high) were found to possess an inferior overall and recurrence-free survival. Nonetheless, substantial clinical benefits of cisplatin-based chemotherapy and anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy were observed in these patients. After identifying a positive correlation between B7-H4 and tumor mutation burden (TMB), clinical benefits in B7-H4high TMBhigh subgroup were found to be the most upon PD-L1 blockade. Further studies revealed that B7-H4high subgroup was featured by non-inflamed immune contexture and cell cycle-related gene alterations. CONCLUSIONS Despite adverse clinical outcomes, B7-H4high patients possessed superior responsiveness to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. B7-H4 stratification could also synergize with TMB to pinpoint the patients who benefited most from immunotherapy. The clinical exploration of B7-H4 as a companion predictor could allow clinicians to direct proper therapeutic agents to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaopei Liu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaifeng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Zeng
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Shao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Chang
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiwei Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Xu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zewei Wang
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xingang Cui
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiejie Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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