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Jahagirdar V, Rama K, Habeeb MF, Sharma M, Rao PN, Reddy DN, Singal AG, Kulkarni AV. Systemic Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in India. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2024; 14:101440. [PMID: 38975606 PMCID: PMC11225346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2024.101440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in India. This review explores the epidemiological trends and the landscape of systemic therapy for HCC in the Indian context, acknowledging the recent shift in etiology from viral hepatitis to lifestyle-associated factors. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted, including data from the Global Cancer Observatory and the Indian Council of Medical Research, along with a critical analysis of various clinical trials. The article investigates systemic therapies in-depth, discussing their mechanisms, efficacy, and adaptation to Indian healthcare framework. Progression-free survival with a hazard ratio of ≤0.6 compared to sorafenib, overall survival of ∼16-19 months, and objective response rate of 20-30% are the defining thresholds for systemic therapy clinical trials. Systemic therapy for advanced HCC in India primarily involves the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, and cabozantinib, with sorafenib being the most commonly used drug for a long time. Monoclonal antibodies such as ramucirumab and bevacizumab and immune-checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab, are expanding treatment horizons. Lenvatinib has emerged as a cost-effective alternative, and the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab has demonstrated superior outcomes in terms of overall survival and progression-free survival. Despite these advances, late-stage diagnosis and limited healthcare accessibility pose significant challenges, often relegating patients to palliative care. Addressing HCC in India demands an integrative approach that not only encompasses advancements in systemic therapy but also targets early detection and comprehensive care models. Future strategies should focus on enhancing awareness, screening for high-risk populations, and overcoming infrastructural disparities. Ensuring the judicious use of systemic therapies within the constraints of the Indian healthcare economy is crucial. Ultimately, a nuanced understanding of systemic therapeutic options and their optimal utilization will be pivotal in elevating the standard of HCC care in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Jahagirdar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, USA
| | - Kaanthi Rama
- Gandhi Medical College & Hospital, Secunderabad, India
| | | | - Mithun Sharma
- Department of Hepatology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Padaki N. Rao
- Department of Hepatology, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
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Chan SL, Ryoo BY, Mo F, Chan LL, Cheon J, Li L, Wong KH, Yim N, Kim H, Yoo C. Multicentre phase II trial of cabozantinib in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. J Hepatol 2024; 81:258-264. [PMID: 38570034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.03.033] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Prospective data on treatment after immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are lacking. We conducted a phase II multicentre study on cabozantinib after ICI treatment in HCC. METHODS This is an investigator-initiated, single-arm, clinical trial involving academic centres in Hong Kong and Korea. Key eligibility criteria included diagnosis of HCC, refractoriness to prior ICI-based treatment, and Child-Pugh A liver function. A maximum of two prior lines of therapy were allowed. All patients were commenced on cabozantinib at 60 mg/day. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). RESULTS Forty-seven patients were recruited from Oct 2020 to May 2022; 27 and 20 patients had received one and two prior therapies, respectively. Median follow-up was 11.2 months. The median PFS was 4.1 months (95% CI 3.3-5.3). The median overall survival (OS) was 9.9 months (95% CI 7.3-14.4), and the 1-year OS rate was 45.3%. Partial response and stable disease occurred in 3 (6.4%) and 36 (76.6%) patients, respectively. When used as a second-line treatment (n = 27), cabozantinib was associated with a median PFS and OS of 4.3 (95% CI 3.3-6.7) and 14.3 (95% CI 8.9-NR) months, respectively. The corresponding median PFS and OS were 4.3 (95% CI 3.3-11.0) and 14.3 (95% CI 9.0-NR) months, respectively, for those receiving ICI-based regimens with proven benefits (n = 17). The most common grade 3-4 treatment-related adverse event was thrombocytopenia (6.4%). The median dose of cabozantinib was 40 mg/day. The number of prior therapies was an independent prognosticator (one vs. two; hazard ratio = 0.37; p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Cabozantinib demonstrated efficacy in patients who had received prior ICI regimens; survival data for second-line cabozantinib following first-line ICI regimens provide a reference for future clinical trial design. The number of prior lines of treatment may be considered a stratification factor in randomised studies. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Prospective data on systemic treatment following prior immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are lacking. This phase II clinical trial provides efficacy and safety data on cabozantinib in patients who had received prior ICI-based treatment. Exploratory analyses showed that the performance of cabozantinib differed significantly when used as a second- or third-line treatment. The above data could be used as a reference for clinical practice and the design of future clinical trials on subsequent treatment lines following ICIs. CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER NCT04588051.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Baek-Yeol Ryoo
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Frankie Mo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Landon L Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jaekyung Cheon
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Leung Li
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwan H Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nicole Yim
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, Hong Kong Cancer Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hyeyeong Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Changhoon Yoo
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Wang Y, Lau W, Li Y, Tian Y, Lei Y, Xia F, Wang J. Efficacy comparison of immune combination therapies in subgroups for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients: Systematic review and network meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306869. [PMID: 39038010 PMCID: PMC11262675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of precision in the immunotherapy strategy tailored for patients exhibiting diverse clinical characteristics. This study aims to employ a rigorous network meta-analysis (NMA) approach to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of immune-combination therapies among patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, taking into account their varying clinico-characteristics. METHODS Studies were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. The included first-line phase III studies were categorized into three types: immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenetic agents, immunotherapy combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and dual immunotherapy, with sorafenib serving as the control group. The primary endpoint used to assess efficacy was overall survival (OS), facilitating a comparative analysis among the three treatment modalities. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were conducted to evaluate the varying effectiveness for patients with diverse clinico-characteristics. Secondary outcome measures included progression-free survival, objective response rate, and toxicity assessment. RESULTS A total of 6 studies were included in the NMA, encompassing a cohort of 3840 patients. The results revealed that immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenetic agents exhibited a significantly enhanced therapeutic effect in terms of improving OS compared to sorafenib (HR = 0.61, 95% CrI, 0.42-0.90). Furthermore, based on various clinicopathological features, this combination therapy demonstrated superior OS responses in specific patient subgroups: BCLC C (HR = 0.63, 95% CrI, 0.42-0.93), ECOG 1 (HR = 0.57, 95% CrI, 0.36-0.91), with extrahepatic spread (EHS) (HR = 0.59, 95% CrI, 0.37-0.92), alpha fetoprotein (AFP)<400ng/ml (HR = 0.56, 95% CrI, 0.33-0.94) and viral hepatitis positivity (HR = 0.56, 95% CrI, 0.39-0.77) (especially HBV (HR = 0.58, 95% CrI, 0.40-0.85)). Importantly, the advantage of this combination therapy was even more pronounced in patients with viral hepatitis positivity. Also, the adverse events associated with immunotherapy combined with antiangiogenic drugs were moderate. CONCLUSIONS Immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenetic agents could represent the most effective first-line intervention for achieving improved OS, particularly in patients with viral hepatitis positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yani Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wanyee Lau
- Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Yafei Li
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yichen Tian
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongrong Lei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, the First Hospital Affiliated to AMU (Southwest Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Chen Y, Du C, Shen S, Zhang W, Shan Y, Lyu A, Wu J, Shang C, Luo X, Wei J, Xiao H, Qiu J, Hua Y, Wang S, Wang T, Dai S, Zhang S, Xie B, Wu Y, Hao C. Toripalimab Plus Bevacizumab as First-line Treatment for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective, Multicenter, Single-Arm, Phase II Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2937-2944. [PMID: 38687583 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-24-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This phase II, multicenter, prospective, single-arm study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of toripalimab plus bevacizumab for treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Treatment-naïve patients with advanced HCC received toripalimab 240 mg plus bevacizumab 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks. The primary endpoints included safety and tolerability and objective response rate (ORR) assessed by the investigator per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1. RESULTS Fifty-four patients were enrolled between April 17, 2020, and December 11, 2020. As assessed by the investigator according to RECIST v1.1, the ORR was 31.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 19.5-45.6] and the lower bound of the 95% CI was above the prespecified boundary of 10%. The independent review committee (IRC) assessed ORR according to the modified RECIST (mRECIST), which was 46.3% (95% CI, 32.6-60.4). The median progression-free survival was 8.5 (95% CI, 5.5-11.0) and 9.8 months (95% CI, 5.6 to not evaluable) as assessed by the investigator according to RECIST v1.1 and IRC according to mRECIST criteria, respectively. The median overall survival (OS) was not reached, and the 12- and 24-month OS rates were 77.3% and 63.5%, respectively. Grade 3 or higher treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 27 patients (50.0%). The most common TEAEs were proteinuria (59.3%), hypertension (38.9%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (33.3%), increased amylase (29.6%), decreased platelet count (27.8%), and increased bilirubin levels (27.8%). CONCLUSIONS Toripalimab plus bevacizumab showed a favorable efficacy and safety profile, supporting further studies on this combination regimen as a first-line treatment for advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengyou Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shunli Shen
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunfeng Shan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ang Lyu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education, Beijing), Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery/Sarcoma Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education, Beijing), Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery/Sarcoma Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Changzhen Shang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinxing Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianguo Qiu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunpeng Hua
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shutong Wang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengjie Dai
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shuhao Zhang
- Shanghai Junshi Biosciences Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Bingying Xie
- Shanghai Junshi Biosciences Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Yinghao Wu
- Shanghai Junshi Biosciences Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyi Hao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education, Beijing), Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery/Sarcoma Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
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Liu G, Zhu D, He Q, Zhou C, He L, Li Z, Jiang Z, Huang M, Chang B, Wu C. Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy Combined with Lenvatinib and PD-1 Inhibitors for Managing Arterioportal Shunt in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:1415-1428. [PMID: 39045397 PMCID: PMC11264130 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s456460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of combining hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with lenvatinib (LEN) and PD-1 inhibitors in treating arterioportal shunt (APS) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). Patients and Methods Conducted retrospectively, the study enrolled 54 HCC patients with APS and PVTT treated with HAIC, LEN, and PD-1 inhibitors at our center between January 2021 and October 2023. APS improvement, APS recanalization, tumor response, PVTT response rate, overall survival (OS), intrahepatic progression-free survival (InPFS), and adverse events were evaluated. Results APS improvement was observed in 42 patients (77.8%), with all improvement occurring within two treatment sessions. Complete APS occlusion was achieved in 40 patients (74.1%), and no recanalization occurred. The best objective response rate (ORR) and ORR after two HAIC sessions were 74.1% and 66.7%, respectively. The best PVTT response and PVTT response after two HAIC sessions were 98.1% and 94.4%, respectively. The median OS and InPFS were 10.0 months and 5.0 months, respectively. OS and InPFS were longer in patients with APS occlusion compared to those without (OS 12.1 vs 4.4 months, P<0.001, InPFS 6.2 vs 2.3 months, P=0.049). ALBI grade, extrahepatic spread, APS disappearance were potential prognostic factors for OS, while APS grade and extrahepatic spread being independently associated with InPFS. No treatment-related mortality occurred. Conclusion Combining HAIC with LEN and PD-1 inhibitors proves to be both effective and safe in managing APS in HCC with PVTT, potentially improving patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanxiong Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Duo Zhu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Quansheng He
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Churen Zhou
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li He
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengran Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zaibo Jiang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingsheng Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Boyang Chang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chun Wu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, People’s Republic of China
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Suddle A, Reeves H, Hubner R, Marshall A, Rowe I, Tiniakos D, Hubscher S, Callaway M, Sharma D, See TC, Hawkins M, Ford-Dunn S, Selemani S, Meyer T. British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma in adults. Gut 2024; 73:1235-1268. [PMID: 38627031 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-331695] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Deaths from the majority of cancers are falling globally, but the incidence and mortality from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing in the United Kingdom and in other Western countries. HCC is a highly fatal cancer, often diagnosed late, with an incidence to mortality ratio that approaches 1. Despite there being a number of treatment options, including those associated with good medium to long-term survival, 5-year survival from HCC in the UK remains below 20%. Sex, ethnicity and deprivation are important demographics for the incidence of, and/or survival from, HCC. These clinical practice guidelines will provide evidence-based advice for the assessment and management of patients with HCC. The clinical and scientific data underpinning the recommendations we make are summarised in detail. Much of the content will have broad relevance, but the treatment algorithms are based on therapies that are available in the UK and have regulatory approval for use in the National Health Service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abid Suddle
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Helen Reeves
- Newcastle University Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Richard Hubner
- Department of Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Ian Rowe
- University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Dina Tiniakos
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Stefan Hubscher
- Department of Pathology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark Callaway
- Division of Diagnostics and Therapies, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Teik Choon See
- Department of Radiology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Maria Hawkins
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sarah Selemani
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tim Meyer
- Department of Oncology, University College, London, UK
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Colloca GA, Venturino A. Effect of Subgroups on Study Outcomes in Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Upfront Systemic Treatment: A Meta-analysis. Am J Clin Oncol 2024:00000421-990000000-00217. [PMID: 38979979 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Immunotherapy improved the outcome of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, but not all studies are in agreement, nor is it clear whether certain subgroups have really benefited. This study aims to perform an updated meta-analysis of trials comparing upfront immunotherapy-based regimens versus tyrosin-kinase inhibitors, and some exploratory analyses. METHODS After a systematic review, randomized trials of immunotherapy-based regimens versus tyrosin-kinase inhibitors were selected. A meta-analysis assessed the relationship between treatment arm and overall survival. Based on the resulting heterogeneity, a further investigation of 11 variables by meta-regression and an exploration of subgroups were planned. RESULTS Eight studies were selected. From the meta-analysis, the overall survival improvement for the immunotherapy-based arms was consistent (HR: 0.77, CI: 0.68-0.88), although heterogeneity between studies was significant ( Q =16.37; P =0.0373; I2 =51.1%). After meta-regression, the effect of the experimental arm was more pronounced in the elderly and lost among patients with HCV-related liver disease. Subgroups suggested a favorable effect of immunotherapy in patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma, extrahepatic dissemination, and elevated alpha-fetoprotein. CONCLUSION The study results confirm the significant overall survival improvement after immunotherapy-based regimens but suggest different effects on the outcome depending on age, etiology of liver disease, and tumor burden.
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Wang M, Xu X, Wang K, Diao Y, Xu J, Gu L, Yao L, Li C, Lv G, Yang T. Conversion therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in the era of precision medicine: Current status, challenges and opportunities. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:2159-2169. [PMID: 38695305 PMCID: PMC11247552 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16194] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent malignancy of the digestive tract, is characterized by a high mortality rate and poor prognosis, primarily due to its initial diagnosis at an advanced stage that precludes any surgical intervention. Recent advancements in systemic therapies have significantly improved oncological outcomes for intermediate and advanced-stage HCC, and the combination of locoregional and systemic therapies further facilitates tumor downstaging and increases the likelihood of surgical resectability for initially unresectable cases following conversion therapies. This shift toward high conversion rates with novel, multimodal treatment approaches has become a principal pathway for prolonged survival in patients with advanced HCC. However, the field of conversion therapy for HCC is marked by controversies, including the selection of potential surgical candidates, formulation of conversion therapy regimens, determination of optimal surgical timing, and application of adjuvant therapy post-surgery. Addressing these challenges and refining clinical protocols and research in HCC conversion therapy is essential for setting the groundwork for future advancements in treatment strategies and clinical research. This narrative review comprehensively summarizes the current strategies and clinical experiences in conversion therapy for advanced-stage HCC, emphasizing the unresolved issues and the path forward in the context of precision medicine. This work not only provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of treatment modalities for conversion therapy but also paves the way for future studies and innovations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming‐Da Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Xue‐Jun Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryGeneral Hospital of Xinjiang Military Region of PLAUrumuqiXinjiangChina
| | - Ke‐Chun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Yong‐Kang Diao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Jia‐Hao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Li‐Hui Gu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Lan‐Qing Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Guo‐Yue Lv
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery CenterFirst Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunJilinChina
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery HospitalSecond Military Medical University (Navy Medical University)ShanghaiChina
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery CenterFirst Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunJilinChina
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Marin JJG, Macias RIR, Asensio M, Romero MR, Temprano AG, Pereira OR, Jimenez S, Mauriz JL, Di Giacomo S, Avila MA, Efferth T, Briz O. Strategies to enhance the response of liver cancer to pharmacological treatments. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C11-C33. [PMID: 38708523 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00176.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
In contrast to other types of cancers, there is no available efficient pharmacological treatment to improve the outcomes of patients suffering from major primary liver cancers, i.e., hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. This dismal situation is partly due to the existence in these tumors of many different and synergistic mechanisms of resistance, accounting for the lack of response of these patients, not only to classical chemotherapy but also to more modern pharmacological agents based on the inhibition of tyrosine kinase receptors (TKIs) and the stimulation of the immune response against the tumor using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This review summarizes the efforts to develop strategies to overcome this severe limitation, including searching for novel drugs derived from synthetic, semisynthetic, or natural products with vectorial properties against therapeutic targets to increase drug uptake or reduce drug export from cancer cells. Besides, immunotherapy is a promising line of research that is already starting to be implemented in clinical practice. Although less successful than in other cancers, the foreseen future for this strategy in treating liver cancers is considerable. Similarly, the pharmacological inhibition of epigenetic targets is highly promising. Many novel "epidrugs," able to act on "writer," "reader," and "eraser" epigenetic players, are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies. Finally, gene therapy is a broad field of research in the fight against liver cancer chemoresistance, based on the impressive advances recently achieved in gene manipulation. In sum, although the present is still dismal, there is reason for hope in the non-too-distant future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J G Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocio I R Macias
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro G Temprano
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Olívia R Pereira
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Laboratório Associado para a Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Silvia Jimenez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Farmacia Hospitalaria, Hospital de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jose L Mauriz
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Matias A Avila
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra (IdisNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM) Group, University of Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
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Guan R, Zhang N, Deng M, Lin Y, Huang G, Fu Y, Zheng Z, Wei W, Zhong C, Zhao H, Mei J, Guo R. Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma extrahepatic metastases can benefit from hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with lenvatinib plus programmed death-1 inhibitors. Int J Surg 2024; 110:4062-4073. [PMID: 38549220 PMCID: PMC11254277 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000001378] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lenvatinib plus programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors (LEN-P) have been recommended in China for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, they provide limited survival benefits to patients with extrahepatic metastases. We aimed to investigate whether combining hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with LEN-P could improve its efficacy. MATERIALS AND METHODS This multicenter cohort study included patients with HCC extrahepatic metastases who received HAIC combined with LEN-P (HAIC-LEN-P group, n =127) or LEN-P alone ( n =103) as the primary systemic treatment between January 2019 and December 2022. Baseline data were balanced using a one-to-one propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). RESULTS After PSM, the HAIC-LEN-P group significantly extended the median overall survival (mOS) and median progression-free survival (mPFS), compared with the LEN-P group (mOS: 27.0 months vs. 9.0 months, P <0.001; mPFS: 8.0 months vs. 3.0 months, P =0.001). After IPTW, the mOS [hazard ratio (HR)=0.384, P <0.001] and mPFS (HR=0.507, P <0.001) were significantly higher in the HAIC-LEN-P group than in the LEN-P group. The HAIC-LEN-P group's objective response rate was twice as high as that of the LEN-P group (PSM cohort: 67.3% vs. 29.1%, P <0.001; IPTW cohort: 66.1% vs. 27.8%, P <0.001). Moreover, the HAIC-LEN-P group exhibited no noticeable increase in the percentages of grade 3 and 4 adverse events compared with the LEN-P group ( P >0.05). CONCLUSION HAIC can improve the efficacy of LEN-P in patients with HCC extrahepatic metastases and may be an alternative treatment for advanced HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renguo Guan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Deng
- Department of General Surgery, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University
| | - Guanjie Huang
- Department of Oncology, Maoming People’s Hospital, Maoming, Guangdong
| | - Yizhen Fu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
| | - Zehao Zheng
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
| | - Chong Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Mei
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
| | - Rongping Guo
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer
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11
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Huang Z, Chen T, Li W, Qiu J, Liu S, Wu Z, Li B, Yuan Y, He W. PD-L1 inhibitor versus PD-1 inhibitor plus bevacizumab with transvascular intervention in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:138. [PMID: 38940944 PMCID: PMC11213731 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01415-y] [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: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Both atezolizumab (a PD-L1 inhibitor) plus bevacizumab (A+B) and sintilimab (a PD-1 inhibitor) plus bevacizumab (S+B) are recommended as the first-line regimen for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. Different efficacy between the two regimens combined with transvascular intervention for unresectable HCC (uHCC) remain unknown. We retrospectively analyzed uHCC patients treated in three centers by simultaneous combination of A+B or S+B with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and FOLFOX-based hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). Objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were compared. Totally 188 patients were included, with 92 and 96 administered A+B+TACE-HAIC (ABTH) and S+B+TACE-HAIC (SBTH), respectively. ORRs (62.0 vs. 70.8%, respectively; P = 0.257) and disease control rates (88.0 vs. 93.8%, P = 0.267) were similar between groups by the mRECIST criteria. ABTH showed no survival advantage over SBTH, with median PFS times of 11.7 months and 13.0 months, respectively (HR = 0.81, 95% CI, 0.52-1.26, P = 0.35) and similar OS times (HR = 1.19, 95% CI, 0.32-4.39, P = 0.8). No significant differences were observed in grade 3-4 TRAEs between groups. Either PD-L1 or PD-1 inhibitor plus bevacizumab combined with TACE-HAIC have similarly excellent therapeutic efficacy with manageable adverse events, representing promising treatment options for uHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenkun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tiejun Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenbin Li
- Department of Biliopancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiliang Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoru Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zongfeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Binkui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
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12
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Moriguchi M, Kataoka S, Itoh Y. Evolution of Systemic Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Changing Treatment Strategies and Concepts. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2387. [PMID: 39001448 PMCID: PMC11240810 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16132387] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has undergone substantial advancements. With the advent of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (ATZ/BEV) combination therapy, followed by durvalumab plus tremelimumab, the era of immunotherapy for HCC has commenced. The emergence of systemic treatment with high response rates has led to improvements in overall survival while enabling conversion to radical surgical resection in some patients with HCC. In patients with intermediate-stage HCC, new treatment strategies combining systemic treatment and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) are under development in clinical trials. Moreover, the addition of local therapies, such as TACE, to systemic treatment according to the treatment effect could achieve a certain percentage of complete response. In the IMbrave050 trial, the efficacy of ATZ/BEV combination therapy was validated in patients predicted to have a high risk of recurrence, especially in those who had undergone radical surgery or radiofrequency ablation for HCC. Therefore, systemic treatment for HCC is entering a new phase for all disease stages. The objective of this review is to organize the current position of systemic therapy for each HCC stage and discuss the development of new treatment methods and strategies, with a focus on regimens incorporating immune checkpoint inhibitors, along with future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michihisa Moriguchi
- Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-0841, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.I.)
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13
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Zarlashat Y, Mushtaq H, Pham L, Abbas W, Sato K. Advancements in Immunotherapeutic Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Potential of Combination Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6830. [PMID: 38999940 PMCID: PMC11241106 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136830] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most prevalent cancer and a significant global health burden, with increasing incidence rates and limited treatment options. Immunotherapy has become a promising approach due to its ability to affect the immune microenvironment and promote antitumor responses. The immune microenvironment performs an essential role in both the progression and the development of HCC, with different characteristics based on specific immune cells and etiological factors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, including programmed death-1/programmed death-ligand 1 inhibitors (pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and durvalumab) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 inhibitors (tremelimumab and ipilimumab), have the potential to treat advanced HCC and overcome adverse effects, such as liver failure and chemoresistance. Phase II and phase III clinical trials highlight the efficacy of pembrolizumab and nivolumab, respectively, in advanced HCC patients, as demonstrated by their positive effects on overall survival and progression-free survival. Tremelimumab has exhibited modest response rates, though it does possess antiviral activity. Thus, it is still being investigated in ongoing clinical trials. Combination therapies with multiple drugs have demonstrated potential benefits in terms of survival and tumor response rates, improving patient outcomes compared to monotherapy, especially for advanced-stage HCC. This review addresses the clinical trials of immunotherapies for early-, intermediate-, and advanced-stage HCC. Additionally, it highlights how combination therapy can significantly enhance overall survival, progression-free survival, and objective response rate in advanced-stage HCC, where treatment options are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusra Zarlashat
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Mushtaq
- Health Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-C (NIBGE), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad 45650, Pakistan
| | - Linh Pham
- Department of Science and Mathematics, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Killeen, TX 76549, USA
| | - Wasim Abbas
- Health Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-C (NIBGE), Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad 45650, Pakistan
| | - Keisaku Sato
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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14
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Yang M, Cui M, Sun Y, Liu S, Jiang W. Mechanisms, combination therapy, and biomarkers in cancer immunotherapy resistance. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:338. [PMID: 38898505 PMCID: PMC11186190 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01711-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Anti-programmed death 1/programmed death ligand 1 (anti-PD-1/PD-L1) antibodies exert significant antitumor effects by overcoming tumor cell immune evasion and reversing T-cell exhaustion. However, the emergence of drug resistance causes most patients to respond poorly to these immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Studies have shown that insufficient T-cell infiltration, lack of PD-1 expression, deficient interferon signaling, loss of tumor antigen presentation, and abnormal lipid metabolism are all considered to be closely associated with immunotherapy resistance. To address drug resistance in tumor immunotherapy, a lot of research has concentrated on developing combination therapy strategies. Currently, ICIs such as anti-PD-1 /PD-L1 antibody combined with chemotherapy and targeted therapy have been approved for clinical treatment. In this review, we analyze the mechanisms of resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy in terms of the tumor microenvironment, gut microbiota, epigenetic regulation, and co-inhibitory immune checkpoint receptors. We also discuss various promising combination therapeutic strategies to address resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 drugs, including combining these therapies with traditional Chinese medicine, non-coding RNAs, targeted therapy, other ICIs, and personalized cancer vaccines. Moreover, we focus on biomarkers that predict resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy as well as combination therapy efficacy. Finally, we suggest ways to further expand the application of immunotherapy through personalized combination strategies using biomarker systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manshi Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China
| | - Mengying Cui
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Orthopaedic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China
| | - Shui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China
| | - Weibo Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China.
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15
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Xu K, Xiang C, Yu Z, Li J, Liu C. Survival Benefit of Synchronous Lenvatinib Combined PD-1 Inhibitors for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Beyond Oligometastasis. Immunotargets Ther 2024; 13:305-317. [PMID: 38910584 PMCID: PMC11192195 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s458700] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Strategies therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) beyond oligometastasis are limited. The optimal sequence of systemic treatment for advanced HCC is not yet clear. Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of simultaneous lenvatinib combined PD-1 inhibitor on advanced HCC beyond oligometastasis. Patients and Methods A total of 232 patients were enrolled in our retrospective study. Patients divided into three groups. (a) Lenvatinib plus simultaneous PD-1 inhibitor (Simultaneous group, n=58); (b) patients received PD-1 inhibitor before the tumor progression with continued lenvatinib administration (Before PD group, n=77); (c) patients received PD-1 inhibitor after the tumor progression (After PD group, n=97). To analyze overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) among the three groups. Results The estimated 6-, 12-, 18- and 24-mon OS for Simultaneous group patients were 100%, 93.1%, 63.4%, 48.3%, whereas the OS rates were 100%, 78%, 36.3%, 23.6% in Before PD group, and 99%, 61.2%, 22.1%, 7.5% in After PD group. The OS rates were obviously improved with the use of simultaneous PD-1 inhibitor among the three groups (P <0.001). The estimated 3-, 6-, 9- and 12-month PFS rates for patients were 89.6%, 44.8%, 24.6%, 6% in After PD group, 90.9%, 59.7%, 27.3%, 12.4% in Before PD group and 98.3%, 81%, 51.7%, 39.7% in Simultaneous group, respectively. PFS rate was significantly different among the three groups (P <0.001). Conclusion Synchronous administration of lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors improved survival rate significantly. The synchronous combination could represent a promising strategy in HCC beyond oligometastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwu Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cailing Xiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhige Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changjun Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, People’s Republic of China
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16
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Shi Y, Taherifard E, Saeed A, Saeed A. MASLD-Related HCC: A Comprehensive Review of the Trends, Pathophysiology, Tumor Microenvironment, Surveillance, and Treatment Options. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5965-5983. [PMID: 38921027 PMCID: PMC11202630 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060356] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant burden on global healthcare systems due to its considerable incidence and mortality rates. Recent trends indicate an increase in the worldwide incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and a shift in the etiology of HCC, with MASLD replacing the hepatitis B virus as the primary contributor to new cases of HCC. MASLD-related HCC exhibits distinct characteristics compared to viral HCC, including unique immune cell profiles resulting in an overall more immunosuppressive or exhausted tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, MASLD-related HCC is frequently identified in older age groups and among individuals with cardiometabolic comorbidities. Additionally, a greater percentage of MASLD-related HCC cases occur in noncirrhotic patients compared to those with viral etiologies, hindering early detection. However, the current clinical practice guidelines lack specific recommendations for the screening of HCC in MASLD patients. The evolving landscape of HCC management offers a spectrum of therapeutic options, ranging from surgical interventions and locoregional therapies to systemic treatments, for patients across various stages of the disease. Despite ongoing debates, the current evidence does not support differences in optimal treatment modalities based on etiology. In this study, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature on the trends, characteristics, clinical implications, and treatment modalities for MASLD-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Shi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (Y.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Erfan Taherifard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (Y.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Ali Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA;
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (Y.S.); (E.T.)
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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17
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Biachi de Castria T, Kim RD. Real-World Effectiveness of First Line Lenvatinib Therapy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Insights. Pragmat Obs Res 2024; 15:79-87. [PMID: 38881691 PMCID: PMC11178097 DOI: 10.2147/por.s395974] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Lenvatinib received its initial approval in 2018 for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. It has since emerged as the preferred first line agent, supported by non-inferiority data from the REFLECT trial. Notably, lenvatinib exhibits a more favorable toxicity profile and a higher response rate compared to sorafenib. Despite the approval of immunotherapy in 2020, specifically the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab following the IMbrave150 trial, tyrosine kinase inhibitors remain an indispensable class of agents in the landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. This comprehensive review delves into various facets of lenvatinib utilization in hepatocellular carcinoma, shedding light on real-world data, addressing challenges, and providing insights into strategies to overcome these obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Biachi de Castria
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Richard D Kim
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Kobayashi K, Ogasawara S, Itobayashi E, Okubo T, Itokawa N, Nakamura K, Moriguchi M, Watanabe S, Ikeda M, Kuroda H, Kawaoka T, Hiraoka A, Yasui Y, Kuzuya T, Sato R, Kanzaki H, Koroki K, Inoue M, Nakamura M, Kiyono S, Kanogawa N, Kondo T, Nakamoto S, Ozawa Y, Tsuchiya K, Atsukawa M, Aikata H, Aramaki T, Oka S, Morimoto N, Kurosaki M, Itoh Y, Izumi N, Kato N. Ramucirumab for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in the current real world: a Japanese single-arm study post-REACH-2 (The R-evolution study). Invest New Drugs 2024:10.1007/s10637-024-01441-3. [PMID: 38842657 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-024-01441-3] [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: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to complement the results of the REACH-2 study by prospectively evaluating the safety and efficacy of ramucirumab in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a real-world setting. This was an open-label, nonrandomized, multicenter, prospective study conducted at 13 institutions in Japan (jRCTs031190236). The study included Child-Pugh Class A patients with advanced HCC who had received pretreatment with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) or lenvatinib. Ramucirumab was introduced as a second-line treatment after Atez/Bev or lenvatinib and as a third-line treatment after Atez/Bev and lenvatinib. Between May 2020 and July 2022, we enrolled 19 patients, including 17 who received ramucirumab. Additionally, seven patients received lenvatinib, another seven patients received Atez/Bev, and three patients received Atez/Bev followed by lenvatinib as prior treatment. The primary endpoint was a 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate, which was 14.3%. The median PFS and overall survival were 3.7 and 12.0 months, respectively. The most common grade ≥ 3 adverse events (AEs) were hypertension (23.5%), proteinuria (17.6%), and neutropenia (11.8%). The discontinuation rate due to AEs was 29.4%. Six patients progressed from Child-Pugh A to B after treatment with ramucirumab. Thirteen patients were eligible for post-ramucirumab treatment, including systemic therapy. Despite the limited number of patients, the efficacy of ramucirumab was comparable to that observed in the REACH-2 study when used after lenvatinib and Atez/Bev. However, the incidence of AEs was higher than that in the REACH-2 study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazufumi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sadahisa Ogasawara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Ei Itobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asahi General Hospital, Asahi, Japan
| | - Tomomi Okubo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Inzai, Japan
| | - Norio Itokawa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Inzai, Japan
| | | | - Michihisa Moriguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shunji Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Masafumi Ikeda
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Hidekatsu Kuroda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Kawaoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Atsushi Hiraoka
- Gastroenterology Center, Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yasui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Musashino, Japan
| | - Teiji Kuzuya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Rui Sato
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Nagaizumi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kanzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Keisuke Koroki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masanori Inoue
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masato Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kiyono
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoya Kanogawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kondo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshihito Ozawa
- Biostatistics Section, Clinical Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kaoru Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Musashino, Japan
| | - Masanori Atsukawa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Inzai, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hiroshima Prefectural Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Aramaki
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Nagaizumi, Japan
| | - Shiro Oka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoki Morimoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yoshito Itoh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Namiki Izumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Naoya Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Guo Y, Chow PKH. A windfall year for HCC: The most impactful clinical papers in 2023. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0406. [PMID: 38727694 PMCID: PMC11093559 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Guo
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgery, Singapore General Hospital and National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pierce K. H. Chow
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgery, Singapore General Hospital and National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Surgery Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
- Program in Clinical and Translational Liver Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
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20
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Cabibbo G, Celsa C, Rimassa L, Torres F, Rimola J, Kloeckner R, Bruix J, Cammà C, Reig M. Navigating the landscape of liver cancer management: Study designs in clinical trials and clinical practice. J Hepatol 2024; 80:957-966. [PMID: 38307346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.01.018] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide and its prognosis is highly heterogeneous, being related not only to tumour burden but also to the severity of underlying chronic liver disease. Moreover, advances in systemic therapies for HCC have increased the complexity of patient management. Randomised-controlled trials represent the gold standard for evidence generation across all areas of medicine and especially in the oncology field, as they allow for unbiased estimates of treatment effect without confounders. Observational studies have many problems that could reduce their internal and external validity. However, large prospective (well-conducted) observational real-world studies can detect rare adverse events or monitor the occurrence of long-term adverse events. How best to harness real world data, which refers to data generated from the routine care of patients, and real-world 'evidence', which is the evidence generated from real-world data, represents an open challenge. In this review article, we aim to provide an overview of the benefits and limitations of different study designs, particularly focusing on randomised-controlled trials and observational studies, to address important and not fully resolved questions in HCC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Ciro Celsa
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W120HS London, UK
| | - Lorenza Rimassa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (Milan), Italy; Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Ferran Torres
- Biostatistics Unit, Medical School, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Rimola
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Liver Oncology Unit, Radiology Department, CDI, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roman Kloeckner
- Institute of Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein-Campus Lubeck, 23583 Lubeck, Germany
| | - Jordi Bruix
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Reig
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Liver Oncology Unit, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain; Barcelona University, Barcelona, Spain.
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21
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Rossari F, Foti S, Camera S, Persano M, Casadei-Gardini A, Rimini M. Treatment options for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: the potential of biologics. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2024; 24:455-470. [PMID: 38913107 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2024.2363234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant global health burden, whose treatment has been recently revolutionized by the advent of biologic treatments. Despite that, innovative therapeutic regimens and approaches, especially immune-based, remain to be explored aiming at extending the therapeutic benefits to a wider population of patients. AREAS COVERED This review comprehensively discusses the evolving landscape of biological treatment modalities for advanced HCC, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, antiangiogenic monoclonal antibodies, tumor-targeting monoclonal antibodies either naked or drug-conjugated, therapeutic vaccines, oncolytic viruses, adoptive cell therapies, and cytokine-based therapies. Key clinical trials and preclinical studies are examined, highlighting the actual or potential impact of these interventions in reshaping treatment paradigms for HCC. EXPERT OPINION Tailored and rational combination strategies, leveraging the synergistic effects of different modalities, represent a promising approach to maximize treatment efficacy in advanced HCC, which should aim at conversion endpoints to increase the fraction of patients eligible for curative approaches. The identification of predictive biomarkers holds the key to optimizing patient selection and improving therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Rossari
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Foti
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Camera
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology, University and University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Casadei-Gardini
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Rimini
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
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22
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Hu L, Kong Y, Qiao Y, Wang A. Can adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors improve the long-term outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma with high-risk recurrent factors after liver resection? A meta-analysis and systematic review. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1374262. [PMID: 38854716 PMCID: PMC11162111 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1374262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Administering adjuvant therapy following liver resection is crucial for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exhibiting high-risk recurrence factors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are effective against unresectable HCC; however, their effectiveness and safety for this specific patient group remain uncertain. Methods We conducted an extensive literature search across four scholarly databases to identify relevant studies. Our primary endpoints were overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and adverse events (AEs). OS and RFS were quantified using hazard ratios (HRs), whereas the 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS and RFS rates were expressed as risk ratios (RRs). Additionally, the incidence of AEs was calculated. Results Our meta-analysis included 11 studies (N = 3,219 patients), comprising two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nine retrospective studies. Among these, eight studies reported HRs for OS, showing a statistically significant improvement in OS among patients receiving adjuvant ICIs (HR, 0.60; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-0.80; p < 0.0001). All included studies reported HRs for RFS, indicating a favorable impact of adjuvant ICIs (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.52-0.73; p < 0.0001). Moreover, aggregated data demonstrated improved 1- and 2-year OS and RFS rates with adjuvant ICIs. The incidence rate of AEs of any grade was 0.70 (95% CI, 0.49-0.91), with grade 3 or above AEs occurring at a rate of 0.12 (95% CI, 0.05-0.20). Conclusion Adjuvant ICI therapy can enhance both OS and RFS rates in patients with HCC exhibiting high-risk recurrence factors, with manageable AEs. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#recordDetails PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023488250.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingbo Hu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Enze Hospital, Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yenan Kong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingli Qiao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Aidong Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Enze Hospital, Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
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23
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Urquijo-Ponce JJ, Alventosa-Mateu C, Latorre-Sánchez M, Castelló-Miralles I, Diago M. Present and future of new systemic therapies for early and intermediate stages of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2512-2522. [PMID: 38817666 PMCID: PMC11135412 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i19.2512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a high mortality neoplasm which usually appears on a cirrhotic liver. The therapeutic arsenal and subsequent prognostic outlook are intrinsically linked to the HCC stage at diagnosis. Notwithstanding the current deployment of treatments with curative intent (liver resection/local ablation and liver transplantation) in early and intermediate stages, a high rate of HCC recurrence persists, underscoring a pivotal clinical challenge. Emergent systemic therapies (ST), particularly immunotherapy, have demonstrate promising outcomes in terms of increase overall survival, but they are currently bound to the advanced stage of HCC. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the literature, encompassing studies up to March 10, 2024, evaluating the impact of novel ST in the early and intermediate HCC stages, specially focusing on the findings of neoadjuvant and adjuvant regimens, aimed at increasing significantly overall survival and recurrence-free survival after a treatment with curative intent. We also investigate the potential role of ST in enhancing the downstaging rate for the intermediate-stage HCC initially deemed ineligible for treatment with curative intent. Finally, we critically discuss about the current relevance of the results of these studies and the encouraging future implications of ST in the treatment schedules of early and intermediate HCC stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Jose Urquijo-Ponce
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Digestive Diseases, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario of Valencia, Valencia 46014, Spain
| | - Carlos Alventosa-Mateu
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Digestive Diseases, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario of Valencia, Valencia 46014, Spain
| | - Mercedes Latorre-Sánchez
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Digestive Diseases, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario of Valencia, Valencia 46014, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Castelló-Miralles
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Digestive Diseases, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario of Valencia, Valencia 46014, Spain
| | - Moisés Diago
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Digestive Diseases, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario of Valencia, Valencia 46014, Spain
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24
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Kim SJ, Cummins KC, Tsung A. Immunotherapy as a Complement to Surgical Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1852. [PMID: 38791931 PMCID: PMC11120323 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor in adults, and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. While surgical and ablative therapies remain the standard of care in early localized disease, late presentation with advanced stages of disease, impaired hepatic function, or local recurrence following surgical resection preclude operative management as the sole treatment modality in a subgroup of patients. As such, systemic therapies, namely immunotherapy, have become an integral part of the HCC treatment algorithm over the past decade. While agents, such as atezolizumab/bevacizumab, have well-established roles as first-line systemic therapy in intermediate- and advanced-stage HCC, the role of immunotherapy in disease amenable to surgical management continues to evolve. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence and aggregate impact of immunotherapy in the context of HCC amenable to surgical management, including its application in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
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25
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Teufel A, Kudo M, Qian Y, Daza J, Rodriguez I, Reissfelder C, Ridruejo E, Ebert MP. Current Trends and Advancements in the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Dig Dis 2024; 42:349-360. [PMID: 38599204 DOI: 10.1159/000538815] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a significant global health burden with a high mortality rate. Over the past 40 years, significant progress has been achieved in the prevention and management of HCC. SUMMARY Hepatitis B vaccination programs, the development of direct acting antiviral drugs for Hepatitis C, and effective surveillance strategies provide a profound basis for the prevention of HCC. Advanced surgery and liver transplantation along with local ablation techniques potentially offer cure for the disease. Also, just recently, the introduction of immunotherapy opened a new chapter in systemic treatment. Finally, the introduction of the BCLC classification system for HCC, clearly defining patient groups and assigning reasonable treatment options, has standardized treatment and become the basis of almost all clinical trials for HCC. With this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of HCC management and also touch on current challenges. KEY MESSAGE A comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach is crucial for effective HCC management. Continued research and clinical trials are imperative to further enhance treatment options and will ultimately reduce the global burden of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Teufel
- Division of Hepatology, Division of Clinical Bioinformatics, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health (CPD), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuquan Qian
- National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jimmy Daza
- Division of Hepatology, Division of Clinical Bioinformatics, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health (CPD), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Isaac Rodriguez
- Division of Hepatology, Division of Clinical Bioinformatics, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health (CPD), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christoph Reissfelder
- Department of Surgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ezequiel Ridruejo
- Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine, Center for Medical Education and Clinical Research, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matthias P Ebert
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit, EMBL, Heidelberg, Germany
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Fujiwara N, Kimura G, Nakagawa H. Emerging Roles of Spatial Transcriptomics in Liver Research. Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:115-132. [PMID: 38574750 DOI: 10.1055/a-2299-7880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Spatial transcriptomics, leveraging sequencing- and imaging-based techniques, has emerged as a groundbreaking technology for mapping gene expression within the complex architectures of tissues. This approach provides an in-depth understanding of cellular and molecular dynamics across various states of healthy and diseased livers. Through the integration of sophisticated bioinformatics strategies, it enables detailed exploration of cellular heterogeneity, transitions in cell states, and intricate cell-cell interactions with remarkable precision. In liver research, spatial transcriptomics has been particularly revelatory, identifying distinct zonated functions of hepatocytes that are crucial for understanding the metabolic and detoxification processes of the liver. Moreover, this technology has unveiled new insights into the pathogenesis of liver diseases, such as the role of lipid-associated macrophages in steatosis and endothelial cell signals in liver regeneration and repair. In the domain of liver cancer, spatial transcriptomics has proven instrumental in delineating intratumor heterogeneity, identifying supportive microenvironmental niches and revealing the complex interplay between tumor cells and the immune system as well as susceptibility to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, spatial transcriptomics represents a significant advance in hepatology, promising to enhance our understanding and treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Genki Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Hayato Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
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Werner W, Kuzminskaya M, Lurje I, Tacke F, Hammerich L. Overcoming Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Liver Cancer with Combination Therapy: Stronger Together? Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:159-179. [PMID: 38806159 PMCID: PMC11245330 DOI: 10.1055/a-2334-8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, represented mainly by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is one of the most common and deadliest tumors worldwide. While surgical resection or liver transplantation are the best option in early disease stages, these tumors often present in advanced stages and systemic treatment is required to improve survival time. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has had a positive impact especially on the treatment of advanced cancers, thereby establishing immunotherapy as part of first-line treatment in HCC and CCA. Nevertheless, low response rates reflect on the usually cold or immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize mechanisms of resistance leading to tumor immune escape with a special focus on the composition of tumor microenvironment in both HCC and CCA, also reflecting on recent important developments in ICI combination therapy. Furthermore, we discuss how combination of ICIs with established primary liver cancer treatments (e.g. multikinase inhibitors and chemotherapy) as well as more complex combinations with state-of-the-art therapeutic concepts may reshape the tumor microenvironment, leading to higher response rates and long-lasting antitumor immunity for primary liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Werner
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzminskaya
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Shen KY, Zhu Y, Xie SZ, Qin LX. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: current status and prospectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:25. [PMID: 38679698 PMCID: PMC11057182 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01549-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have made great progress in the systemic treatment of HCC. The combination treatments based on ICIs have been the major trend in this area. Recently, dual immune checkpoint blockade with durvalumab plus tremelimumab has also emerged as an effective treatment for advanced HCC. However, the majority of HCC patients obtain limited benefits. Understanding the immunological rationale and exploring novel ways to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy has drawn much attention. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in this area, the ongoing clinical trials of immune-based combination therapies, as well as novel immunotherapy strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells, personalized neoantigen vaccines, oncolytic viruses, and bispecific antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Yu Shen
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sun-Zhe Xie
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lun-Xiu Qin
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Xu L, Chen J, Liu C, Song X, Zhang Y, Zhao H, Yan S, Jia W, Wu Z, Guo Y, Yang J, Gong W, Ma Y, Yang X, Gao Z, Zhang N, Zheng X, Li M, Su D, Chen M. Efficacy and safety of tislelizumab plus lenvatinib as first-line treatment in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a multicenter, single-arm, phase 2 trial. BMC Med 2024; 22:172. [PMID: 38650037 PMCID: PMC11036623 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03356-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lenvatinib is widely used in treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC), but the benefit of its combination with immunotherapy needs to be verified. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of tislelizumab plus lenvatinib in systemic treatment-naïve patients with uHCC. METHODS In this multicenter, single-arm, phase 2 study, systemic treatment-naïve patients with uHCC received tislelizumab 200 mg every three weeks plus lenvatinib (bodyweight ≥ 60 kg: 12 mg; < 60 kg: 8 mg; once daily). Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were evaluated in safety run-in phase to determine whether to enter the expansion phase. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) assessed by independent review committee (IRC) per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1 (RECIST v1.1). Based on Simon's two-stage design, > 6 responders were needed in stage 1 (n = 30) to continue the study, and ≥ 18 responders were needed by the end of stage 2 (n = 60) to demonstrate statistical superiority to a historical control of lenvatinib monotherapy. RESULTS Sixty-four patients were enrolled. No DLTs were reported. The study achieved statistical superiority (p = 0.0003) with 23 responders assessed by IRC per RECIST v1.1 in the first 60 patients of the efficacy evaluable analysis set (n = 62). After a median follow-up of 15.7 months, confirmed ORR and disease control rate were 38.7% (24/62, 95% confidence interval [CI], 26.6-51.9) and 90.3% (56/62, 95% CI, 80.1-96.4), respectively. Median progression-free survival was 8.2 months (95% CI, 6.8-not evaluable). Overall survival rate at 12 months was 88.6% (95% CI, 77.7-94.4). Grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 18 (28.1%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Tislelizumab plus lenvatinib demonstrated promising antitumor activity with favourable tolerability as first-line therapy for patients with uHCC. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04401800).
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinzhang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Division of Liver, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Minimal Invasive Surgery, Shangjin Nanfu Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoling Song
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqiao Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weidong Jia
- Surgery Department, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Zheng Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yabing Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayin Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Liver Transplant Center, Transplant Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Gong
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaobo Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nu Zhang
- Surgery Department, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengyu Li
- Medical Affairs, BeiGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Dan Su
- Global Statistics and Data Science, BeiGene (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Minshan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Zheng S, Chan SW, Liu F, Liu J, Chow PKH, Toh HC, Hong W. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Drug Therapeutic Status, Advances and Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1582. [PMID: 38672664 PMCID: PMC11048862 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081582] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer, accounting for ~90% of liver neoplasms. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths and the seventh most common cancer worldwide. Although there have been rapid developments in the treatment of HCC over the past decade, the incidence and mortality rates of HCC remain a challenge. With the widespread use of the hepatitis B vaccine and antiviral therapy, the etiology of HCC is shifting more toward metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Early-stage HCC can be treated with potentially curative strategies such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, and radiofrequency ablation, improving long-term survival. However, most HCC patients, when diagnosed, are already in the intermediate or advanced stages. Molecular targeted therapy, followed by immune checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy, has been a revolution in HCC systemic treatment. Systemic treatment of HCC especially for patients with compromised liver function is still a challenge due to a significant resistance to immune checkpoint blockade, tumor heterogeneity, lack of oncogenic addiction, and lack of effective predictive and therapeutic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunzhen Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Postdoctoral Scientific Research Workstation, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan 250098, China;
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Singapore; (S.W.C.); (W.H.)
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China;
| | - Siew Wee Chan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Singapore; (S.W.C.); (W.H.)
| | - Fei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Postdoctoral Scientific Research Workstation, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan 250098, China;
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China;
| | - Pierce Kah Hoe Chow
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre, Singapore 169610, Singapore;
- Academic Clinical Programme for Surgery, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Han Chong Toh
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 168583, Singapore;
| | - Wanjin Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Singapore; (S.W.C.); (W.H.)
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Peng W, Pan Y, Xie L, Yang Z, Ye Z, Chen J, Wang J, Hu D, Xu L, Zhou Z, Chen M, Fang A, Zhang Y. The emerging therapies are reshaping the first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2024; 17:17562848241237631. [PMID: 38645513 PMCID: PMC11032067 DOI: 10.1177/17562848241237631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Given the superior performance of various therapies over sorafenib in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the absence of direct comparisons, it is crucial to explore the efficacy of these treatments in phase III randomized clinical trials. Objectives The goal is to identify which patients are most likely to benefit significantly from these emerging therapies, contributing to more personalized and informed clinical decision-making. Design Systematic review and network meta-analysis. Data sources and methods PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and international conference databases have been searched from 1 January 2010 to 1 December 2023. Results After screening, 17 phase III trials encompassing 18 treatments were included. In the whole-population network meta-analysis, the newly first-line tremelimumab plus durvalumab (Tre + Du) was found to be comparable with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atezo + Beva) in providing the best overall survival (OS) benefit [hazard ratio (HR) 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.93-1.92]. Concerning OS benefits, sintilimab plus bevacizumab biosimilar (Sint + Beva), camrelizumab plus rivoceranib (Camre + Rivo), and lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab (Lenva + Pemb) appear to exhibit similar effects to Tre + Du and Atezo + Beva. In the context of progression-free survival, Atezo + Beva seemed to outperform Tre + Du (HR: 0.66 CI: 0.49-0.87), while the effects are comparable to Sint + Beva, Camre + Rivo, and Lenva + Pemb. Upon comparison between Asia-Pacific and non-Asia-Pacific cohorts, as well as between hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected and non-HBV-infected populations, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based treatments seemed to exhibit heightened efficacy in the Asia-Pacific group and among individuals with HBV infection. However, combined ICI-based therapies did not show more effectiveness than molecular-targeted drugs in patients without macrovascular invasion and/or extrahepatic spread. As for grades 3-5 adverse events, combined therapies showed comparable safety to sorafenib and lenvatinib. Conclusion Compared with sorafenib and lenvatinib, combination therapies based on ICIs significantly improved the prognosis of advanced HCC and demonstrated similar safety. At the same time, the optimal treatment approach should be tailored to individual patient characteristics, such as etiology, tumor staging, and serum alpha-fetoprotein levels. With lower incidence rates of treatment-related adverse events and non-inferior efficacy compared to sorafenib, ICI monotherapies should be prioritized as a first-line treatment approach for patients who are not suitable candidates for ICI-combined therapies. Trial registration PROSPERO, CRD42022288172.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yangxun Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Lan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zhoutian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zhiwei Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Jinbin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Juncheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Dandan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zhongguo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Minshan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Aiping Fang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yaojun Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
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Wang Q, Ji X, Sun J, Zhang A, Jia J, Zhang T, Li W, Duan X. Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Combined With Lenvatinib With or Without PD-1 Inhibitors as Initial Treatment for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024:S0360-3016(24)00452-8. [PMID: 38583495 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2024.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the clinical benefit and safety of the triple combination of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), lenvatinib, and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors with the dual combination of SBRT and lenvatinib in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). METHODS AND MATERIALS Patients with uHCC who received SBRT in combination with lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors or SBRT in combination with lenvatinib alone as first-line treatment from October 2018 to July 2022 were reviewed in this study. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary endpoints were intrahepatic PFS, extrahepatic PFS, and objective remission rate. In addition, safety profiles were assessed by analyzing treatment-related adverse events between the two groups to assess safety profiles. RESULTS In total, 214 patients with uHCC who received combination therapy were included in this retrospective study. Among them, 146 patients received triple combination therapy of SBRT, lenvatinib, and PD-1 inhibitors (SBRT-L-P group), and 68 patients received dual therapy of SBRT and lenvatinib (SBRT-L group). The median OS times of the 2 groups were 31.2 months and 17.4 months, respectively (P < .001). The median PFS time was significantly longer in the SBRT-L-P group than in the SBRT-L group (15.6 months vs 8.8 months, P < .001). Additionally, the median intrahepatic PFS (17.5 vs 9.9 months, P < .001) and extrahepatic PFS (20.9 vs 11.6 months, P < .001) were significantly longer in the SBRT-L-P group than in the SBRT-L group. The objective remission rate in the SBRT-L-P group was higher than in the SBRT-L group (63.0 vs 39.7%, P = .002). The incidence and severity of treatment-related adverse events in the SBRT-L-P group were comparable to those in the SBRT-L group. CONCLUSION The use of both lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors with SBRT in patients with uHCC was associated with improved overall survival compared with lenvatinib and SBRT alone with a manageable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoquan Ji
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Aimin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Jia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Teng Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wengang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Xuezhang Duan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Cai M, Huang W, Liang W, Guo Y, Liang L, Lin L, Xie L, Zhou J, Chen Y, Cao B, Wu J, Zhu K. Lenvatinib, sintilimab plus transarterial chemoembolization for advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma: A phase II study. Liver Int 2024; 44:920-930. [PMID: 38291865 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Our retrospective study has suggested encouraging outcomes of lenvatinib combined with PD-1 inhibitor and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) on advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This phase II trial was conducted to prospectively investigate the efficacy and safety of lenvatinib, sintilimab (a PD-1 inhibitor) plus TACE (Len-Sin-TACE) in patients with advanced stage HCC. METHODS This was a single-arm phase II trial. Patients with BCLC stage C HCC were recruited. They received lenvatinib (bodyweight ≥60 kg, 12 mg; bodyweight <60 kg, 8 mg) orally once daily, sintilimab (200 mg) intravenously once every 3 weeks, and on demand TACE. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) per mRECIST. RESULTS Thirty patients were enrolled. The primary endpoint was met with a median PFS of 8.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.1-9.8) months per mRECIST, which was the same as that per RECIST 1.1. The objective response rate was 60.0% per mRECIST and 30.0% per RECIST 1.1. The disease control rate was 86.7% per mRECIST/RECIST 1.1. The median duration of response was 7.4 (95% CI: 6.6-8.2) months per mRECIST (n = 18) and 4.3 (95% CI: 4.0-4.6) months per RECIST 1.1 (n = 9). The median overall survival was 18.4 (95% CI: 14.5-22.3) months. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 28 patients (93.3%) and grade 3 TRAEs were observed in 12 patients (40.0%). There were no grade 4/5 TRAEs. CONCLUSIONS Len-Sin-TACE showed promising antitumour activities with a manageable safety profile in patients with advanced stage HCC. The preliminary results need to be further evaluated with phase III randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Cai
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wensou Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Yongjian Guo
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Licong Liang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liteng Lin
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lulu Xie
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Chen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bihui Cao
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingqiang Wu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangshun Zhu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interventional Oncology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Saborowski A, Lleo A. The COSMIC-312 study: will it shape future combination therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma? Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:275-276. [PMID: 38364833 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(24)00007-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Saborowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
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Starzer AM, Wolff L, Popov P, Kiesewetter B, Preusser M, Berghoff AS. The more the merrier? Evidence and efficacy of immune checkpoint- and tyrosine kinase inhibitor combinations in advanced solid cancers. Cancer Treat Rev 2024; 125:102718. [PMID: 38521009 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2024.102718] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have gained therapeutical significance in cancer therapy over the last years. Due to the high efficacy of each substance group, additive or complementary effects are considered, and combinations are the subject of multiple prospective trials in different tumor entities. The majority of available data results from clinical phase I and II trials. Although regarded as well-tolerated therapies ICI-TKI combinations have higher toxicities compared to monotherapies of one of the substance classes and some combinations were shown to be excessively toxic leading to discontinuation of trials. So far, ICI-TKI combinations with nivolumab + cabozantinib, pembrolizumab + axitinib, avelumab + axitinib, pembrolizumab + lenvatinib have been approved in advanced renal cell (RCC), with pembrolizumab + lenvatinib in endometrial carcinoma and with camrelizumab + rivoceranib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Several ICI-TKI combinations are currently investigated in phase I to III trials in various other cancer entities. Further, the optimal sequence of ICI-TKI combinations is an important subject of investigation, as cross-resistances between the substance classes were observed. This review reports on clinical trials with ICI-TKI combinations in different cancer entities, their efficacy and toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika M Starzer
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ladislaia Wolff
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Petar Popov
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Kiesewetter
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Preusser
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna S Berghoff
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Personalized Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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36
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De Gaetano V, Pallozzi M, Cerrito L, Santopaolo F, Stella L, Gasbarrini A, Ponziani FR. Management of Portal Hypertension in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Systemic Treatment: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1388. [PMID: 38611066 PMCID: PMC11011056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of CSPH in patients undergoing systemic treatment for HCC has emerged as a critical concern due to the absence of reliable diagnostic criteria and uncertainties surrounding therapeutic approaches. This review aims to underscore the primary pathophysiological aspects linking HCC and PH, while also addressing the current and emerging clinical strategies for the management of portal hypertension. A review of studies from January 2003 to June 2023 was conducted using the PubMed database and employing MeSH terms, such as "hepatocellular carcinoma", "immune checkpoint inhibitors", "systemic therapy", "portal hypertension", "variceal bleeding" and "tyrosine kinase inhibitors". Despite promising results of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in animal models for PH and fibrosis, only Sorafenib has demonstrated similar effects in human studies, whereas Lenvatinib appears to promote PH development. The impact of Atezolizumab/Bevacizumab on PH remains uncertain, with an increasing risk of bleeding related to Bevacizumab in patients with prior variceal hemorrhage. Given the absence of specific guidelines, endoscopic surveillance during treatment is advisable, and primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding should adhere to the Baveno VII recommendations. Furthermore, in patients with advanced HCC, refinement of diagnostic criteria for CSPH and guidelines for its surveillance are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria De Gaetano
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Maria Pallozzi
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Liver Unit, Centro Malattie dell’Apparato Digerente (CEMAD), Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario GemelliIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.G.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (F.R.P.)
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Gupta T, Jarpula NS. Hepatocellular carcinoma immune microenvironment and check point inhibitors-current status. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:353-365. [PMID: 38577535 PMCID: PMC10989304 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i3.353] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver and has a high mortality rate. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system in addition to tumor staging also links the modality of treatment available to a particular stage. The recent description of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HCC has provided a new concept of immunogenicity within the HCC. Virus-related HCC has been shown to be more immunogenic with higher expression of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and decreased elements for immunosuppression such as regulatory T cells. This immunogenic milieu provides a better response to immunotherapy especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In addition, the recent data on combining locoregional therapies and other strategies may convert the less immunogenic state of the TME towards higher immunogenicity. Therefore, data are emerging on the use of combinations of locoregional therapy and ICIs in unresectable or advanced HCC and has shown better survival outcomes in this difficult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarana Gupta
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak 124001, Haryana, India.
| | - Nikhil Sai Jarpula
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak 124001, Haryana, India
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Wu J, Wu J, Li S, Luo M, Zeng Z, Li Y, Fu Y, Li H, Liu D, Ou X, Lin Z, Wei S, Yan M. Effect of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib plus anti-PD-1 antibodies in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A treatment with Chinese characteristics. Biosci Trends 2024; 18:42-48. [PMID: 38325823 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2023.01326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Therapies for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) are currently popular. Current first-line standard-of-care treatments for uHCC are systematic therapies. However, treatments that combine locoregional therapy with systemic therapy are widely accepted in China and have demonstrated high rates of tumor response and conversion to resection with manageable toxicity. A literature review was performed by searching published literature in PubMed and Web of Science up to December 2023 for relevant articles on the use of triple therapy (transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib and anti-PD-1 antibodies) in uHCC. This review concentrates on the efficacy and safety of triple therapy with Chinese characteristics in patients with uHCC and describes the outcome of conversion surgery, degree of pathological necrosis, and effect prediction. This article will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the role of triple therapy with Chinese characteristics in patients with uHCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Wu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Junyi Wu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shuqun Li
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China
| | - Mengchao Luo
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhenxin Zeng
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yinan Li
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yangkai Fu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Han Li
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Deyi Liu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiangye Ou
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhongtai Lin
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shaoming Wei
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of General Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Maolin Yan
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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Chowdhury A, Lorimer C. OncoFlash-Research Updates in a Flash! (Mar 2024). Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2024; 36:133-135. [PMID: 38365423 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2024.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - C Lorimer
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, West Sussex, United Kingdom
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40
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Zhong JH. Adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Dilemmas at the start of a new era. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:806-810. [PMID: 38516235 PMCID: PMC10950644 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i8.806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 50%-70% of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma experience recurrence within five years after curative hepatic resection or ablation. As a result, many patients receive adjuvant therapy after curative resection or ablation in order to prolong recurrence-free survival. The therapy recommended by national guidelines can differ, and guidelines do not specify when to initiate adjuvant therapy or how long to continue it. These and other unanswered questions around adjuvant therapies make it difficult to optimize them and determine which may be more appropriate for a given type of patient. These questions need to be addressed by clinicians and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hong Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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41
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Chen Y, Wang Y, Lei J, Chen B, Zhang X, Chang L, Hu Z, Wang Y, Lu Y. Taurohyocholic acid acts as a potential predictor of the efficacy of tyrosine kinase inhibitors combined with programmed cell death-1 inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1364924. [PMID: 38464731 PMCID: PMC10920247 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1364924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) combined with programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) have significantly improved survival in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC), but effective biomarkers to predict treatment efficacy are lacking. Peripheral blood bile acids (BAs) are associated with tumor response to therapy, but their roles in HCC remain unclear. Methods: This retrospective study included HCC patients who received first-line TKIs combined with PD-1 inhibitors treatment (combination therapy) in our clinical center from November 2020 to June 2022. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in plasma BA profiles before and after treatment in both the responding group (Res group) and the non-responding group (Non-Res group). We aimed to explore the potential role of BAs in predicting the response to combination therapy in HCC patients. Results: Fifty-six patients with HCC who underwent combination therapy were included in this study, with 28 designated as responders (Res group) and 28 as non-responders (Non-Res group). There were differences in plasma BA concentrations between the two groups before systemic therapy. Plasma taurohyocholic acid (THCA) levels in the Res group were significantly lower than those in the Non-Res group. Patients with low levels of THCA exhibited superior median progression-free survival (7.6 vs. 4.9 months, p = 0.027) and median overall survival (23.7 vs. 11.6 months, p = 0.006) compared to those of patients with high levels of THCA. Conclusion: Peripheral blood BA metabolism is significantly correlated with combination therapy response and survival in patients with HCC. Our findings emphasize the potential of plasma BAs as biomarkers for predicting combination therapy outcomes and offering novel therapeutic targets for modulating responses to systemic cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yutao Wang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Peking University 302 Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Lei
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Chen
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Renji Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinfeng Zhang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- The PLA 307 Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Liangzheng Chang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhangli Hu
- Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinying Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Senior Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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You Q, Li R, Yao J, Zhang YC, Sui X, Xiao CC, Zhang JB, Xiao JQ, Chen HT, Li H, Zhang J, Zheng J, Yang Y. Insights into lenvatinib resistance: mechanisms, potential biomarkers, and strategies to enhance sensitivity. Med Oncol 2024; 41:75. [PMID: 38381181 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02295-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Lenvatinib is a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor capable of promoting apoptosis, suppressing angiogenesis, inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, and modulating the immune response. In multiple cancer types, lenvatinib has presented manageable safety and is currently approved as an effective first-line therapy. However, with the gradual increase in lenvatinib application, the inevitable progression of resistance to lenvatinib is becoming more prevalent. A series of recent researches have reported the mechanisms underlying the development of lenvatinib resistance in tumor therapy, which are related to the regulation of cell death or proliferation, histological transformation, metabolism, transport processes, and epigenetics. In this review, we aim to outline recent discoveries achieved in terms of the mechanisms and potential predictive biomarkers of lenvatinib resistance as well as to summarize untapped approaches available for improving the therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib in patients with various types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang You
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Rong Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jia Yao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Ying-Cai Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xin Sui
- Surgical ICU of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Cui-Cui Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jie-Bin Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jia-Qi Xiao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Hai-Tian Chen
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Organ Transplantation Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Transplantation Medicine, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Biotherapy and Translational Medicine of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
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Chew V, Chuang CH, Hsu C. Translational research on drug development and biomarker discovery for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:22. [PMID: 38368324 PMCID: PMC10874078 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01011-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Translational research plays a key role in drug development and biomarker discovery for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, unique challenges exist in this field because of the limited availability of human tumor samples from surgery, the lack of homogenous oncogenic driver mutations, and the paucity of adequate experimental models. In this review, we provide insights into these challenges and review recent advancements, with a particular focus on the two main agents currently used as mainstream therapies for HCC: anti-angiogenic agents and immunotherapy. First, we examine the pre-clinical and clinical studies to highlight the challenges of determining the optimal therapeutic combinations with biologically effective dosage for HCC. Second, we discuss biomarker studies focusing on anti-PD1/anti-PD-L1-based combination therapy. Finally, we discuss the progress made in our collective understanding of tumor immunology and in multi-omics analysis technology, which enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying immunotherapy, characterize different patient subgroups, and facilitate the development of novel combination approaches to improve treatment efficacy. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive overview of efforts in translational research aiming at advancing our understanding of and improving the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Chew
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth-DukeNUS Academic Medical Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chien-Huai Chuang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiun Hsu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Becht R, Kiełbowski K, Wasilewicz MP. New Opportunities in the Systemic Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Today and Tomorrow. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1456. [PMID: 38338736 PMCID: PMC10855889 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031456] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer. Liver cirrhosis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease represent major risk factors of HCC. Multiple different treatment options are available, depending on the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) algorithm. Systemic treatment is reserved for certain patients in stages B and C, who will not benefit from regional treatment methods. In the last fifteen years, the arsenal of available therapeutics has largely expanded, which improved treatment outcomes. Nevertheless, not all patients respond to these agents and novel combinations and drugs are needed. In this review, we aim to summarize the pathway of trials investigating the safety and efficacy of targeted therapeutics and immunotherapies since the introduction of sorafenib. Furthermore, we discuss the current evidence regarding resistance mechanisms and potential novel targets in the treatment of advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Becht
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Chemotherapy and Cancer Immunotherapy, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (R.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Kajetan Kiełbowski
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Chemotherapy and Cancer Immunotherapy, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (R.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Michał P. Wasilewicz
- Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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Camera S, Rimini M, Rossari F, Tada T, Suda G, Shimose S, Kudo M, Yoo C, Cheon J, Finkelmeier F, Lim HY, Presa J, Masi G, Bergamo F, Salani F, Marseglia M, Amadeo E, Vitiello F, Kumada T, Sakamoto N, Iwamoto H, Aoki T, Chon HJ, Himmelsbach V, Iavarone M, Cabibbo G, Montes M, Foschi FG, Vivaldi C, Lonardi S, Sho T, Niizeki T, Nishida N, Steup C, Hirooka M, Kariyama K, Tani J, Atsukawa M, Takaguchi K, Itobayashi E, Fukunishi S, Tsuji K, Ishikawa T, Tajiri K, Ochi H, Yasuda S, Toyoda H, Ogawa C, Nishimura T, Hatanaka T, Kakizaki S, Shimada N, Kawata K, Hiraoka A, Tada F, Ohama H, Nouso K, Morishita A, Tsutsui A, Nagano T, Itokawa N, Okubo T, Imai M, Kosaka H, Naganuma A, Koizumi Y, Nakamura S, Kaibori M, Iijima H, Hiasa Y, Persano M, Foti S, Piscaglia F, Scartozzi M, Cascinu S, Casadei-Gardini A. Safety and Efficacy of Lenvatinib in Very Old Patients with Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Target Oncol 2024; 19:29-39. [PMID: 38252195 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-023-01029-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data concerning the use of lenvatinib in very old patients (≥ 80 years) are limited, although the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in this patient population is constantly increasing. OBJECTIVE This analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of lenvatinib in a large cohort of very old patients (≥ 80 years) with unresectable HCC. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study was conducted on a cohort of 1325 patients from 46 centers in four Western and Eastern countries (Italy, Germany, Japan, and the Republic of Korea) who were undergoing first-line treatment with lenvatinib between July 2010 and February 2022. Patients were stratified according to age as very old (≥ 80 years) and not very old (< 80 years). RESULTS The median overall survival (OS) was 15.7 months for patients < 80 years old and 18.4 months for patients ≥ 80 years old [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84-1.25, p = 0.8281]. Median progression free survival (PFS) was 6.3 months for patients < 80 years old and 6.5 months for patients ≥ 80 years old (HR = 1.07, 95% CI 0.91-1.25, p = 0.3954). No differences between the two study groups were found in terms of disease control rate (DCR; 80.8% versus 78.8%; p = 0.44) and response rate (RR; 38.2% versus 37.9%; p = 0.88). Patients < 80 years old experienced significantly more hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) grade ≥ 2 and decreased appetite grade ≥ 2. Conversely, patients ≥ 80 years old experienced significantly more fatigue grade ≥ 2. In the very old group, parameters associated with prognosis were AFP, albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC), and Child-Pugh score. BCLC stage was the only independent predictor of overall survival (OS; HR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.11-2.29, p = 0.01115). CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the same efficacy and safety of lenvatinib between very old and not very old patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Camera
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, San Martino Hospital, Oristano, Italy
| | - Margherita Rimini
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Federico Rossari
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Toshifumi Tada
- Department of Internal Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Himeji Hospital, Himeji, Japan
| | - Goki Suda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Shigeo Shimose
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Changhoon Yoo
- Department of Oncology, ASAN Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88, Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Jaekyung Cheon
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Fabian Finkelmeier
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ho Yeong Lim
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Gianluca Masi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Bergamo
- Oncology Unit 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesca Salani
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Research "Health Science", Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Marseglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabeth Amadeo
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Vitiello
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Takashi Kumada
- Department of Nursing, Gifu Kyoritsu University, Ogaki, Japan
| | - Naoya Sakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Hideki Iwamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Tomoko Aoki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hong Jae Chon
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Vera Himmelsbach
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Massimo Iavarone
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | - Caterina Vivaldi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Lonardi
- Oncology Unit 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Takuya Sho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Takashi Niizeki
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Christoph Steup
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Masashi Hirooka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kariyama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Okayama City Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Joji Tani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Masanori Atsukawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Takaguchi
- Department of Hepatology, Kagawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Takamatsu, Japan
| | - Ei Itobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asahi General Hospital, Asahi, Japan
| | - Shinya Fukunishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Tsuji
- Center of Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Toru Ishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kazuto Tajiri
- Department of Gastroenterology, Toyama University Hospital, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hironori Ochi
- Hepato-biliary Center, Japanese Red Cross Matsuyama Hospital, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yasuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Japan
| | - Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Japan
| | - Chikara Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Japanese Red Cross Takamatsu Hospital, Takamatsu, Japan
| | - Takashi Nishimura
- Department of Internal medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hyogo Medical University, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hatanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Satoru Kakizaki
- Department of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Noritomo Shimada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Otakanomori Hospital, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Kawata
- Department of Hepatology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Atsushi Hiraoka
- Gastroenterology Center, Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Fujimasa Tada
- Gastroenterology Center, Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Hideko Ohama
- Gastroenterology Center, Ehime Prefectural Central Hospital, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Nouso
- Department of Gastroenterology, Okayama City Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Asahiro Morishita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Akemi Tsutsui
- Department of Hepatology, Kagawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Takamatsu, Japan
| | - Takuya Nagano
- Department of Hepatology, Kagawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Takamatsu, Japan
| | - Norio Itokawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomi Okubo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michitaka Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hisashi Kosaka
- Department of Surgery, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Yohei Koizumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Nakamura
- Department of Internal Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Himeji Hospital, Himeji, Japan
| | - Masaki Kaibori
- Department of Surgery, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroko Iijima
- Department of Internal medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hyogo Medical University, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hiasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology, University and University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia Foti
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology, University and University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Cascinu
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Casadei-Gardini
- Department of Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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Coschi CH, Juergens RA. Overcoming Resistance Mechanisms to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Leveraging the Anti-Tumor Immune Response. Curr Oncol 2023; 31:1-23. [PMID: 38275827 PMCID: PMC10814017 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
As far back as 3000 years ago, the immune system was observed to play a role in mediating tumor regression. Since then, many strategies have been developed to leverage the anti-tumor immune response. However, while many patients respond to ICIs up front some do not, and many of those that do eventually experience tumor progression. Currently, there are several predictive biomarkers of the immune checkpoint inhibitor response; however, no one test appears to be universally predictive and their application varies by disease site. There are many ways in which cancer cells develop primary or acquired resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Efforts to reverse resistance include ways to combat T cell exhaustion, reprogram the tumor microenvironment, increase the availability of tumor neo-antigens, target alternative immune checkpoints, restore a normal/healthy patient gut microbiome, oncolytic viruses and tumor vaccines. The most studied and most promising methods include combining ICIs with therapies targeting alternative immune checkpoints and restoring a normal/healthy patient gut microbiome. This review will discuss T cell-mediated immunity, how this is leveraged by modern immunotherapy to treat cancer and mechanisms of immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance, while highlighting strategies to overcome primary and secondary resistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney H. Coschi
- Department of Oncology, McMaster University, 699 Concession Street, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada;
| | - Rosalyn A. Juergens
- Department of Oncology, McMaster University, 699 Concession Street, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada;
- Escarpment Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada
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Chan LL, Chan SL. Drug development for hepatocellular carcinoma. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:1292-1294. [PMID: 38039988 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00523-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Landon L Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Hong Kong Cancer Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Stephen L Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Clinical Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Hong Kong Cancer Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
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