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Sabag B, Puthenveetil A, Levy M, Joseph N, Doniger T, Yaron O, Karako-Lampert S, Lazar I, Awwad F, Ashkenazi S, Barda-Saad M. Dysfunctional natural killer cells can be reprogrammed to regain anti-tumor activity. EMBO J 2024; 43:2552-2581. [PMID: 38637625 PMCID: PMC11217363 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00094-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical to the innate immune system, as they recognize antigens without prior sensitization, and contribute to the control and clearance of viral infections and cancer. However, a significant proportion of NK cells in mice and humans do not express classical inhibitory receptors during their education process and are rendered naturally "anergic", i.e., exhibiting reduced effector functions. The molecular events leading to NK cell anergy as well as their relation to those underlying NK cell exhaustion that arises from overstimulation in chronic conditions, remain unknown. Here, we characterize the "anergic" phenotype and demonstrate functional, transcriptional, and phenotypic similarities to the "exhausted" state in tumor-infiltrating NK cells. Furthermore, we identify zinc finger transcription factor Egr2 and diacylglycerol kinase DGKα as common negative regulators controlling NK cell dysfunction. Finally, experiments in a 3D organotypic spheroid culture model and an in vivo tumor model suggest that a nanoparticle-based delivery platform can reprogram these dysfunctional natural killer cell populations in their native microenvironment. This approach may become clinically relevant for the development of novel anti-tumor immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batel Sabag
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Abhishek Puthenveetil
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Moria Levy
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Noah Joseph
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Tirtza Doniger
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Orly Yaron
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Sarit Karako-Lampert
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Itay Lazar
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Fatima Awwad
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Shahar Ashkenazi
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Mira Barda-Saad
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel.
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2
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Wang F, Liu S, Liu F, Xu T, Ma J, Liang J, Wang J, Liu D, Yang F, Li J, Xing N. TIGIT immune checkpoint blockade enhances immunity of human peripheral blood NK cells against castration-resistant prostate cancer. Cancer Lett 2023:216300. [PMID: 37414394 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients have a 14-month median survival, emphasizing the need for alternative treatments. Previously, we demonstrated that expanded high-dose natural killer (NK) cells derived from human peripheral blood exhibit therapeutic efficacy against CRPC. However, which immune checkpoint blockade promotes NK cell antitumor immunity against CRPC remains unknown. Here, we explored immune checkpoint molecule expression in NK and CRPC cells during their interactions, and identified that the T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif domain (TIGIT) monoclonal antibody (mAb), vibostolimab, significantly enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity against CRPC cells and cytokine production in vitro, demonstrated by upregulation of degranulation marker CD107a and Fas-ligand (Fas-L) and increased interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion. TIGIT blockade increased Fas-L expression and IFN-γ production via the NF-κB signaling pathway and restored degranulation via the mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) kinase/ERK pathway in activated NK cells. Vibostolimab significantly enhanced NK cell antitumor effects against CRPC in two xenograft mouse models. Vibostolimab also increased T cell chemotaxis induced by activated NK cells in vitro and in vivo. Overall, blocking TIGIT/CD155 signaling enhances the antitumor effect of expanded NK cells against CRPC; this finding supports the translational application of TIGIT mAb and NK cell combination strategies from bench to bedside for CRPC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangming Wang
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- BOE Regenerative Medicine Technology Co. Ltd., 100015, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Tianli Xu
- BOE Regenerative Medicine Technology Co. Ltd., 100015, Beijing, China
| | - Jianlin Ma
- BOE Regenerative Medicine Technology Co. Ltd., 100015, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- BOE Regenerative Medicine Technology Co. Ltd., 100015, Beijing, China
| | - Donghua Liu
- BOE Regenerative Medicine Technology Co. Ltd., 100015, Beijing, China
| | - Feiya Yang
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China
| | - Jianxing Li
- Department of Urology, Tsinghua University Affiliated Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University Clinical Institute, 102218, Beijing, China.
| | - Nianzeng Xing
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100021, Beijing, China.
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3
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Li X, Chen M, Wan Y, Zhong L, Han X, Chen X, Xiao F, Liu J, Zhang Y, Zhu D, Xiang J, Liu J, Huang H, Hou J. Single-cell transcriptome profiling reveals the key role of ZNF683 in natural killer cell exhaustion in multiple myeloma. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1065. [PMID: 36245253 PMCID: PMC9574488 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Decreased cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells has been shown in multiple myeloma (MM). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, by using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and in vitro experiments, we aim to uncover and validate molecularly distinctive insights into identifying regulators for NK cell exhaustion and provide potential targets for novel immune therapies in MM. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing was conducted in the bone marrow and peripheral blood samples from 10 newly diagnosed MM patients and three healthy volunteers. Based on the cluster-defining differentially expressed genes, we named and estimated functional states of each cluster via bioinformatics analyses. Functional significance of key findings obtained from sequencing analysis was examined in a series of in vitro experiments, including luciferase reporter assay, lentiviral expression vector construction, NK cell transfection, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, and cytotoxicity assay. RESULTS We classified NK cells into seven distinct clusters and confirmed that a subset of ZNF683+ NK cells were enriched in MM patients with 'exhausted' transcriptomic profile, featuring as decreased expression of activating receptors and cytolytic molecules, as well as increased expression of inhibitory receptors. Next, we found a significant downregulation of SH2D1B gene that encodes EAT-2, an adaptor protein of activating receptor SLAMF7, in ZNF683+ NK cells from MM patients versus healthy volunteers. We further proved that ZNF683 transfection in NK cells significantly downregulated SH2D1B expression via directly binding to the promoter of SH2D1B, leading to NK cell cytotoxic activity impairment and exhausted phenotypes acquisition. In contrast, ZNF683 knockout in NK cells from MM patients increased cytotoxic activity and reversed NK cell exhaustion. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our findings uncover an important mechanism of ZNF683+ NK cell exhaustion and suggest that transcriptional suppressor ZNF683 as a potential useful therapeutic target in immunotherapy of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Mengping Chen
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yike Wan
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Lu Zhong
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaofeng Han
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaotong Chen
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Di Zhu
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Xiang
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Junling Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell BiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Honghui Huang
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jian Hou
- Department of HematologyRen Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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Necroptosis-Related Prognostic Signature and Nomogram Model for Predicting the Overall Survival of Patients with Lung Cancer. Genet Res (Camb) 2022; 2022:4908608. [PMID: 36101745 PMCID: PMC9452994 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4908608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Necroptosis is a type of programmed cell death mode and it serves an important role in the tumorigenesis and tumor metastasis. The purpose of this study is to develop a prognostic model based on necroptosis-related genes and nomogram for predicting the overall survival of patients with lung cancer. Method Differentially expressed necroptosis-related genes (NRDs) between lung cancer and normal samples were identified. Univariate and LASSO regression analyses were performed to establish a risk score (RS) model, followed by validation within TCGA and GSE37745. The correlation between RS model and tumor microenvironment, mutation status, or drug susceptibility was analyzed. By combining clinical factors, nomogram was developed to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival probability of an individual. The biological function involved by different risk groups was conducted by GSEA. Results A RS model containing six NRDs (FLNC, PLK1, ID1, MYO1C, SERTAD1, and LEF1) was constructed, and patients were divieded into low-risk (LR) and high-risk (HR) groups. Patients in HR group were associated with shorter survival time than those in the LR group; this model had better prognostic performance. Nomogram based on necroptosis score, T stage, and stage had been confirmed to predict survival of patients. The number of resting NK cells and M0 macrophages was higher in HR group. In addition, higher tumor mutational burden and drug sensitivity were observed in the HR group. Patients in HR group were involved in p53 signaling pathway and cell cycle. Conclusion This study constructed a robust six-NRDs signature and established a prognostic nomogram for survival prediction of lung cancer.
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Ruppel KE, Fricke S, Köhl U, Schmiedel D. Taking Lessons from CAR-T Cells and Going Beyond: Tailoring Design and Signaling for CAR-NK Cells in Cancer Therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:822298. [PMID: 35371071 PMCID: PMC8971283 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.822298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapies utilize the capabilities of the immune system to efficiently target malignant cells. In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) equipped T cells showed promising results against B cell lymphomas. Autologous CAR-T cells require patient-specific manufacturing and thus extensive production facilities, resulting in high priced therapies. Along with potentially severe side effects, these are the major drawbacks of CAR-T cells therapies. Natural Killer (NK) cells pose an alternative for CAR equipped immune cells. Since NK cells can be safely transferred from healthy donors to cancer patients, they present a suitable platform for an allogeneic “off-the-shelf” immunotherapy. However, administration of activated NK cells in cancer therapy has until now shown poor anti-cancer responses, especially in solid tumors. Genetic modifications such as CARs promise to enhance recognition of tumor cells, thereby increasing anti-tumor effects and improving clinical efficacy. Although the cell biology of T and NK cells deviates in many aspects, the development of CAR-NK cells frequently follows within the footsteps of CAR-T cells, meaning that T cell technologies are simply adopted to NK cells. In this review, we underline the unique properties of NK cells and their potential in CAR therapies. First, we summarize the characteristics of NK cell biology with a focus on signaling, a fine-tuned interaction of activating and inhibitory receptors. We then discuss why tailored NK cell-specific CAR designs promise superior efficacy compared to designs developed for T cells. We summarize current findings and developments in the CAR-NK landscape: different CAR formats and modifications to optimize signaling, to target a broader pool of antigens or to increase in vivo persistence. Finally, we address challenges beyond NK cell engineering, including expansion and manufacturing, that need to be addressed to pave the way for CAR-NK therapies from the bench to the clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Eva Ruppel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Department for GMP Process Development & ATMP Design, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stephan Fricke
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Department for GMP Process Development & ATMP Design, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrike Köhl
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
- Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Cellular Therapeutics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dominik Schmiedel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Department for GMP Process Development & ATMP Design, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Dominik Schmiedel,
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6
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Lee Y, Park A, Park YJ, Jung H, Kim TD, Noh JY, Choi I, Lee S, Ran Yoon S. Ginsenoside 20(R)-Rg3 enhances natural killer cell activity by increasing activating receptor expression through the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 107:108618. [PMID: 35219164 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Ginseng is one of the most widely used herbal remedies for various diseases worldwide. Ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3), the main component of ginseng, possesses several pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory activities. However, the effect of G-Rg3 on natural killer (NK) cells in humans is not fully understood. Here, we investigated the effect of G-Rg3 on NK cell function and differentiation and elucidated the underlying mechanism. G-Rg3 increased NK cell cytotoxicity and simultaneously increased the expression of NK-activating receptors, NKp44, NKp46, and NKp30. Additionally, G-Rg3 increased the mRNA expression of NK cytolytic molecules, granzyme B and perforin. The expression of CD107a, a marker of NK cell degranulation, also increased in G-Rg3-treated NK cells. We therefore proceeded to identify which MAPK signaling pathway was involved in G-Rg3-mediated cytolytic activity. Treatment with G-Rg3 increased the phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), whereas ERK inhibition eliminated G-Rg3-induced NK cell cytotoxicity, suggesting the involvement of the ERK pathway. G-Rg3 did not affect the rate of differentiation of human cord-blood-derived NK cells; however, it increased the functional maturation of differentiated NK cells and promoted their cytotoxicity. The G-Rg3 isomer, 20(R)-Rg3, effectively activated NK cells via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway, whereas 20(S)-Rg3 had no effect on NK cell activity. Altogether, the results demonstrated that 20(R)-Rg3 promoted NK cell activity via activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway, suggesting that 20(R)-Rg3 may be used as an activator of NK cell cytotoxicity for the treatment of diverse types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhee Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Arum Park
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Jun Park
- Environmental Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Haiyoung Jung
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Tae-Don Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji-Yoon Noh
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Inpyo Choi
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seungjin Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Suk Ran Yoon
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Biber G, Sabag B, Raiff A, Ben‐Shmuel A, Puthenveetil A, Benichou JIC, Jubany T, Levy M, Killner S, Barda‐Saad M. Modulation of intrinsic inhibitory checkpoints using nano-carriers to unleash NK cell activity. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e14073. [PMID: 34725941 PMCID: PMC8749471 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202114073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells provide a powerful weapon mediating immune defense against viral infections, tumor growth, and metastatic spread. NK cells demonstrate great potential for cancer immunotherapy; they can rapidly and directly kill cancer cells in the absence of MHC-dependent antigen presentation and can initiate a robust immune response in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Nevertheless, current NK cell-based immunotherapies have several drawbacks, such as the requirement for ex vivo expansion of modified NK cells, and low transduction efficiency. Furthermore, to date, no clinical trial has demonstrated a significant benefit for NK-based therapies in patients with advanced solid tumors, mainly due to the suppressive TME. To overcome current obstacles in NK cell-based immunotherapies, we describe here a non-viral lipid nanoparticle-based delivery system that encapsulates small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to gene silence the key intrinsic inhibitory NK cell molecules, SHP-1, Cbl-b, and c-Cbl. The nanoparticles (NPs) target NK cells in vivo, silence inhibitory checkpoint signaling molecules, and unleash NK cell activity to eliminate tumors. Thus, the novel NP-based system developed here may serve as a powerful tool for future NK cell-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Biber
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Batel Sabag
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Anat Raiff
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Aviad Ben‐Shmuel
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Abhishek Puthenveetil
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Jennifer I C Benichou
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Tammir Jubany
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Moria Levy
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Shiran Killner
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
| | - Mira Barda‐Saad
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life SciencesBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat‐GanIsrael
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8
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Brauneck F, Seubert E, Wellbrock J, Schulze zur Wiesch J, Duan Y, Magnus T, Bokemeyer C, Koch-Nolte F, Menzel S, Fiedler W. Combined Blockade of TIGIT and CD39 or A2AR Enhances NK-92 Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity in AML. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312919. [PMID: 34884723 PMCID: PMC8657570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize different natural killer (NK) cell phenotypes on bone marrow and peripheral blood cells from acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and healthy donors (HDs). Our data show that CD56dimCD16− and CD56brightCD16− NK cells represent the predominant NK cell subpopulations in AML, while the CD56dimCD16+ NK cells are significantly reduced compared to HDs. Moreover, TIGIT+ and PVRIG+ cells cluster on the CD56dimCD16+ subset whereas CD39+ and CD38+ cells do so on CD56brightCD16− NK cells in AML. Furthermore, functional effects of (co-)blockade of TIGIT and CD39 or A2AR on NK cell functionality were analyzed. These experiments revealed that the single blockade of the TIGIT receptor results in an increased NK-92 cell-mediated killing of AML cells in vitro. Combined targeting of CD39 or A2AR significantly augments the anti-TIGIT-mediated lysis of AML cells. Our data indicate that distinct NK cell subsets in AML exhibit different immunosuppressive patterns (via the TIGIT/PVRIG receptors and the purinergic pathway). In summary, we conclude that TIGIT, CD39, and A2AR constitute relevant inhibitory checkpoints of NK cells in AML patients. A combinatorial blockade synergistically strengthens NK-92 cell-mediated cytotoxicity. As inhibitors of TIGIT, CD39, and A2AR are clinically available, studies on their combined use could be conducted in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Brauneck
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.B.); (E.S.); (J.W.); (C.B.)
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Elisa Seubert
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.B.); (E.S.); (J.W.); (C.B.)
| | - Jasmin Wellbrock
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.B.); (E.S.); (J.W.); (C.B.)
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Yinghui Duan
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (Y.D.); (T.M.)
| | - Tim Magnus
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (Y.D.); (T.M.)
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.B.); (E.S.); (J.W.); (C.B.)
| | - Friedrich Koch-Nolte
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Stephan Menzel
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center HaTriCS4, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Walter Fiedler
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.B.); (E.S.); (J.W.); (C.B.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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SARS-CoV-2 peptides bind to NKG2D and increase NK cell activity. Cell Immunol 2021; 371:104454. [PMID: 34773897 PMCID: PMC8577527 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Immune dysregulation is commonly
observed in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Severe
acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) induces severe lung
inflammation and innate immune cell dysregulation. However, the precise
interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and the innate immune system is currently
unknown. To understand the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and natural
killer (NK) cells, several SARS-CoV-2 S protein peptides capable of
binding to the NKG2D receptor were screened by in
silico analysis. Among them, two peptides, cov1 and cov2,
bound to NK cells and NKG2D receptors. These cov peptides increased NK
cytotoxicity toward lung cancer cells, stimulated interferon gamma
(IFN-γ) production by NK cells, and likely mediated these responses
through the phosphorylation of Vav1, a key downstream-signaling molecule
of NKG2D and NK activation genes. The direct interaction between
SARS-CoV-2 and NK cells is a novel finding, and modulation of this
interaction has potential clinical application as a therapeutic target
for COVID-19.
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10
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Rowaiye AB, Asala T, Oli AN, Uzochukwu IC, Akpa A, Esimone CO. The Activating Receptors of Natural Killer Cells and Their Inter-Switching Potentials. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 21:1733-1751. [PMID: 32914713 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121666200910160929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The global incidence of cancer is on the increase and researchers are prospecting for specific and non-selective therapies derived from the immune system. The killer activating receptors of NK cells are known to be involved in immunosurveillance against tumor and virally-infected cells. These receptors belong to two main categories, namely the immunoglobulin like and C-lectin like families. Though they have different signal pathways, all the killer activating receptors have similar effector functions which include direct cytotoxicity and the release of inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha. To transduce signals that exceed the activation threshold for cytotoxicity, most of these receptors require synergistic effort. This review profiles 21 receptors: 13 immunoglobulin-like, 5 lectin-like, and 3 others. It critically explores their structural uniqueness, role in disease, respective transduction signal pathways and their status as current and prospective targets for cancer immunotherapy. While the native ligands of most of these receptors are known, much work is required to prospect for specific antibodies, peptides and multi-target small molecules with high binding affinities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Titilayo Asala
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Angus Nnamdi Oli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Agulu, Anambra state, Nigeria
| | - Ikemefuna Chijioke Uzochukwu
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Agulu, Anambra state, Nigeria
| | - Alex Akpa
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Charles Okechukwu Esimone
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Agulu, Anambra state, Nigeria
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11
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Natural Killer Cells in Cancer and Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2021; 520:233-242. [PMID: 34302920 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The detection and killing of neoplastic cells require coordination of a variety of antitumor effector cells. Natural killer (NK) cells of the innate immune system are at the forefront of the body's defense systems and evidence suggests that the infiltration and cytotoxicity of NK cells in the cancer tissue influence treatment efficacy and survival. As powerful effectors in the anticancer immune response, NK cells rapidly recognize and kill transformed cells with little reactivity against healthy self-tissues, which highlights their potential role in cancer immunotherapy. Modern immunotherapeutic approaches include immune checkpoint inhibitors to revitalize dysfunctional T cells and adoptive cell transfer using CD8+ T cells with chimeric antigen receptors to enhance their functionality. However, treatment responses may be short-lived and risk of discontinuation due to adverse effects necessitates the development of safer immuno-oncologic therapies with improved outcomes. To this end, novel combinatorial interventions using T cells and NK cells and strategies for overcoming associated challenges are currently being investigated. This review summarizes the advances in the research on NK cells in cancer and cancer immunotherapy and discusses the possible implications for future cancer treatment.
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12
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Maas RJ, Hoogstad-van Evert JS, Van der Meer JM, Mekers V, Rezaeifard S, Korman AJ, de Jonge PK, Cany J, Woestenenk R, Schaap NP, Massuger LF, Jansen JH, Hobo W, Dolstra H. TIGIT blockade enhances functionality of peritoneal NK cells with altered expression of DNAM-1/TIGIT/CD96 checkpoint molecules in ovarian cancer. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1843247. [PMID: 33224630 PMCID: PMC7657585 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2020.1843247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced ovarian cancer (OC) patients have a poor 5-year survival of only 28%, emphasizing the medical need for improved therapies. Adjuvant immunotherapy could be an attractive approach since OC is an immunogenic disease and the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes has shown to positively correlate with patient survival. Among these infiltrating lymphocytes are natural killer (NK) cells, key players involved in tumor targeting, initiated by signaling via activating and inhibitory receptors. Here, we investigated the role of the DNAM-1/TIGIT/CD96 axis in the anti-tumor response of NK cells toward OC. Ascites-derived NK cells from advanced OC patients showed lower expression of activating receptor DNAM-1 compared to healthy donor peripheral blood NK cells, while inhibitory receptor TIGIT and CD96 expression was equal or higher, respectively. This shift to a more inhibitory phenotype could also be induced in vitro by co-culturing healthy donor NK cells with OC tumor spheroids, and in vivo on intraperitoneally infused NK cells in SKOV-3 OC bearing NOD/SCID-IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice. Interestingly, TIGIT blockade enhanced degranulation and interferon gamma (IFNγ) production of healthy donor CD56dim NK cells in response to OC tumor cells, especially when DNAM-1/CD155 interactions were in place. Importantly, TIGIT blockade boosted functional responsiveness of CD56dim NK cells of OC patients with a baseline reactivity against SKOV-3 cells. Overall, our data show for the first time that checkpoint molecules TIGIT/DNAM-1/CD96 play an important role in NK cell responsiveness against OC, and provides rationale for incorporating TIGIT interference in NK cell-based immunotherapy in OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Ja Maas
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke S Hoogstad-van Evert
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jolien Mr Van der Meer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Vera Mekers
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Somayeh Rezaeifard
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan J Korman
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Redwood City, CA, USA.,AK Vir Biotechnology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paul Kjd de Jonge
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeannette Cany
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rob Woestenenk
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolaas Pm Schaap
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center/Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Leon F Massuger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joop H Jansen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Willemijn Hobo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry Dolstra
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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13
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Cao Y, Wang X, Jin T, Tian Y, Dai C, Widarma C, Song R, Xu F. Immune checkpoint molecules in natural killer cells as potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:250. [PMID: 33122640 PMCID: PMC7596531 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of natural killer (NK) cells in immunotherapy to treat multiple types of cancer. NK cells are innate lymphoid cells that play essential roles in tumor surveillance and control that efficiently kill the tumor and do not require the major histocompatibility complex. The discovery of the NK's potential as a promising therapeutic target for cancer is a relief to oncologists as they face the challenge of increased chemo-resistant cancers. NK cells show great potential against solid and hematologic tumors and have progressively shown promise as a therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. The effector role of these cells is reliant on the balance of inhibitory and activating signals. Understanding the role of various immune checkpoint molecules in the exhaustion and impairment of NK cells when their inhibitory receptors are excessively expressed is particularly important in cancer immunotherapy studies and clinical implementation. Emerging immune checkpoint receptors and molecules have been found to mediate NK cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment; this has brought up the need to explore further additional NK cell-related immune checkpoints that may be exploited to enhance the immune response to refractory cancers. Accordingly, this review will focus on the recent findings concerning the roles of immune checkpoint molecules and receptors in the regulation of NK cell function, as well as their potential application in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, 110819, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianqiang Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Chaoliu Dai
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Crystal Widarma
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Rui Song
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA.
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China.
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14
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Smagina AS, Kulemzin SV, Yusubalieva GM, Kedrova AG, Sanzharov AE, Ivanov YV, Matvienko DA, Kalsin VA, Gorchakov AA, Baklaushev VP, Taranin AV. VAV1-overexpressing YT cells display improved cytotoxicity against malignant cells. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2020; 68:849-855. [PMID: 32767384 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on adoptive transfer of genetically engineered T- and NK-cells is an area of active ongoing research and has proven highly efficacious for patients with certain B-cell malignancies. Use of NK cells and NK cell lines as carriers of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) appears particularly promising, as this opens an opportunity for moving the therapy from autologous to the allogeneic (universal) format. This "off-the-shelf" approach is thought to significantly reduce the price of the treatment and make it available to many more patients in need. Yet, the efficacy of CAR-NK cells in vivo presently remains low, and boosting the activity of CAR NK cells via stronger tumor homing, resistance to tumor microenvironment, as well as greater cytotoxicity may translate into improved patient outcomes. Here, we established a derivative of a human NK cell line YT overexpressing a positive regulator of cytotoxicity, VAV1. Activity of YT-VAV1 cells obtained was assayed in vitro against several cancer cell lines and primary patient-derived cancer cells. YT-VAV1 cells outperform parental YT cells in terms of cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Smagina
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Sergey V Kulemzin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | | | - Anna G Kedrova
- Federal Research Clinical Center FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey E Sanzharov
- Federal Research Clinical Center FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Yurii V Ivanov
- Federal Research Clinical Center FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Darya A Matvienko
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir A Kalsin
- Federal Research Clinical Center FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey A Gorchakov
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | | | - Aleksandr V Taranin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
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15
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Yang S, Cao B, Zhou G, Zhu L, Wang L, Zhang L, Kwok HF, Zhang Z, Zhao Q. Targeting B7-H3 Immune Checkpoint With Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Engineered Natural Killer Cells Exhibits Potent Cytotoxicity Against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1089. [PMID: 32848731 PMCID: PMC7406658 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified natural killer (NK) cell therapy represents a kind of promising anti-cancer treatment because CAR renders NK cells activation and recognition specificity toward tumor cells. An immune checkpoint molecule, B7-H3, plays an inhibitory role in modulation of NK cells. To enhance NK cell functions, we generated NK-92MI cells carrying anti-B7-H3 CAR by lentiviral transduction. The expression of anti-B7-H3 CAR significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK-92MI cells against B7-H3-positive tumor cells. In accordance with enhanced cytotoxicity, the secretions of perforin/granzyme B and expression of CD107a were highly elevated in anti-B7-H3 CAR-NK-92MI cells. Moreover, compared to unmodified NK-92MI cells, anti-B7-H3 CAR-NK-92MI cells effectively limited tumor growth in mouse xenografts of non-small cell lung cancer and significantly prolonged the survival days of mice. This study provides the rationale and feasibility of B7-H3-specific CAR-NK cells for application in adoptive cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Bihui Cao
- Department of Radiology, Translational Medicine Center and Guangdong Provincial Education Department Key Laboratory of Nano-Immunoregulation Tumor Microenviroment, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangyu Zhou
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Lipeng Zhu
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Radiology, Translational Medicine Center and Guangdong Provincial Education Department Key Laboratory of Nano-Immunoregulation Tumor Microenviroment, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Translational Medicine Center and Guangdong Provincial Education Department Key Laboratory of Nano-Immunoregulation Tumor Microenviroment, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
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16
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Bi J, Tian Z. NK Cell Dysfunction and Checkpoint Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1999. [PMID: 31552017 PMCID: PMC6736636 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells play important roles in the innate immune responses against tumors. The effector function of NK cells relies on the integration of activating and inhibitory signals. Emerging checkpoint receptors and molecules are being revealed to mediate NK cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment. Inhibition of some NK cell surface checkpoint receptors has displayed the potential to reverse NK cell dysfunction in tumors, and to boost anti-tumor immunity, both in clinical trials (anti-KIR and anti-NKG2A), and in preclinical studies (e.g., anti-TIGIT, and anti-CD96). To fully exploit the potential of NK-based checkpoint immunotherapy, more understanding of the regional features of NK cells in the tumor microenvironment is required. This will provide valuable information regarding the dynamic nature of NK cell immune response against tumors, as well as novel checkpoints or pathways to be targeted. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of NK cell dysfunction in tumors, as well as emerging strategies of NK-based checkpoint immunotherapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Bi
- Shenzhen Laboratory of Antibody Engineering, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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17
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Nersesian S, Glazebrook H, Toulany J, Grantham SR, Boudreau JE. Naturally Killing the Silent Killer: NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy for Ovarian Cancer. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1782. [PMID: 31456796 PMCID: PMC6699519 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is diagnosed in ~22,000 women in the US each year and kills 14,000 of them. Often, patients are not diagnosed until the later stages of disease, when treatment options are limited, highlighting the urgent need for new and improved therapies for precise cancer control. An individual's immune function and interaction with tumor cells can be prognostic of the response to cancer treatment. Current emerging therapies for OC include immunotherapies, which use antibodies or drive T cell-mediated cancer recognition and elimination. In OC, these have been limited by adverse side effects and tumor characteristics including inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity, lack of targetable antigens, loss of tumor human leukocyte antigen expression, high levels of immunosuppressive factors, and insufficient immune cell trafficking. Natural killer (NK) cells may be ideal as primary or collateral effectors to these nascent immunotherapies. NK cells exhibit multiple functions that combat immune escape and tumor relapse: they kill targets and elicit inflammation through antigen-independent pathways and detect loss of HLA as a signal for activation. NK cells are efficient mediators of tumor immune surveillance and control, suppressed by the tumor microenvironment and rescued by immune checkpoint blockade. NK cells are regulated by a variety of activating and inhibitory receptors and already known to be central effectors across an array of existing therapies. In this article, we highlight interactions between NK cells and OC and their potential to change the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and participate in durable immune control of OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nersesian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Haley Glazebrook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jay Toulany
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Stephanie R Grantham
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jeanette E Boudreau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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18
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Abstract
Changes in the expression of proteins on cancer cell surface are a typical outcome of malignant transformation. Natural killers (NKs) utilize a set of activating and inhibitory receptors that enable them to recognize altered protein expression and then destroy 'stressed' cells such as cancer or virus-infected cells. Major histocompatibility complex class I polypeptide-related sequence A and B (MICA and MICB, respectively) are expressed by various human tumors and can be recognized by activating NK cell receptor NKG2D. However, cancer frequently escapes recognition by NK cells by proteolytic shedding of MICA and MICB proteins. A study carried out by Ferrari de Andrade and colleagues showed that monoclonal antibody targeting the site of proteolytic shedding of MICA and MICB reduced the progression of melanoma in immunocompromised and immune competent mice models by activation of NKG2D. This approach prevented the reduction of essential immunostimulatory ligands (MICA/MICB) and restored NK cell-driven anticancer immunity.
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19
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Nishimura Y, Wake H, Teshigawara K, Wang D, Sakaguchi M, Otsuka F, Nishibori M. Histidine-rich glycoprotein augments natural killer cell function by modulating PD-1 expression via CLEC-1B. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2019; 7:e00481. [PMID: 31143450 PMCID: PMC6531599 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Augmentation of natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity is one of the greatest challenges for cancer immunotherapy. Although histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), a 75-kDa glycoprotein with various immunomodulatory activities, reportedly elicits antitumor immunity, its effect on NK cell cytotoxicity is unclear. We assessed NK cell cytotoxicity against K562 cells. We also measured concentrations of cytokines and granzyme B in the cell supernatant. The proportion of CD56bright NK cells and NK cell surface PD-1 expression was assessed with flow cytometry. The neutralizing effects of anti-C-type lectin-like receptor (CLEC) 1B against HRG were also measured. NK cell morphological changes were analyzed via confocal microscopy. HRG significantly increased NK cell cytotoxicity against K562 cell lines. HRG also increased the release of granzyme B and the proportion of CD56bright NK cells. Further, HRG was able to decrease NK cell surface PD-1 expression. The effects of HRG on NK cells were reversed with anti-CLEC-1B antibodies. Additionally, we confirmed NK cell nuclear morphology and F-actin distribution, which are involved in the regulation of cytotoxic granule secretion. Because both PD-1 and CLEC-1B are associated with prognosis during malignancy, HRG incorporates these molecules to exert the antitumor immunity role. These facts indicate the potential of HRG to be a new target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshito Nishimura
- Department of PharmacologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
- Department of Cell BiologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Hidenori Wake
- Department of PharmacologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Kiyoshi Teshigawara
- Department of PharmacologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Dengli Wang
- Department of PharmacologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Masakiyo Sakaguchi
- Department of Cell BiologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General MedicineOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Masahiro Nishibori
- Department of PharmacologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
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20
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Sanchez-Correa B, Lopez-Sejas N, Duran E, Labella F, Alonso C, Solana R, Tarazona R. Modulation of NK cells with checkpoint inhibitors in the context of cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:861-870. [PMID: 30953117 PMCID: PMC11028212 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02336-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of some types of tumours has increased progressively in recent years and is expected to continue growing in the coming years due in part to the aging of the population. The design of new therapies based on natural killer (NK) cells opens new possibilities especially for the treatment of elderly patients who are particularly susceptible to the toxicity of conventional chemotherapy treatments. In recent years, the potential use of NK cells in cancer immunotherapy has been of great interest thanks to advances in the study of NK cell biology. The identification of key points (checkpoints) in the activation of NK cells that can be regulated by monoclonal antibodies has allowed the design of new therapeutic strategies based on NK cells. However, there are still limitations for its use and the first clinical trials blocking KIR inhibitory receptors have shown little efficacy by inhibiting the maturation of NK cells. Blockade of other inhibitory receptors such as TIGIT, TIM3, LAG3 and PD1 may represent novel strategies to increase NK function in cancer patients. Altogether, the identification of NK cell and tumour cell markers of resistance or susceptibility to the action of NK cells will contribute to identifying those patients that will most likely benefit from NK cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Esther Duran
- Histology and Pathology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | | | - Corona Alonso
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Rafael Solana
- Immunology Unit, Universidad de Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain.
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.
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21
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Hwang S, Han J, Baek JS, Tak E, Song GW, Lee SG, Jung DH, Park GC, Ahn CS, Kim N. Cytotoxicity of Human Hepatic Intrasinusoidal CD56 bright Natural Killer Cells against Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20071564. [PMID: 30925759 PMCID: PMC6480584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic intrasinusoidal (HI) natural killer (NK) cells from liver perfusate have unique features that are similar to those of liver-resident NK cells. Previously, we have reported that HI CD56bright NK cells effectively degranulate against SNU398 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Thus, the aim of this study was to further investigate the phenotype and function of HI NK cells. We found that HI CD56bright NK cells degranulated much less to Huh7 cells. HI CD56bright NK cells expressed NKG2D, NKp46, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), and FAS ligand (FASL) at higher levels than CD56dim cells. SNU398 cells expressed more NKG2D ligands and FAS and less PD-L1 than Huh7 cells. Blockade of NKG2D, TRAIL, and FASL significantly reduced the cytotoxicity of HI NK cells against SNU398 cells, but blockade of PD-L1 did not lead to any significant change. However, HI NK cells produced IFN-γ well in response to Huh7 cells. In conclusion, the cytotoxicity of HI CD56bright NK cells was attributed to the expression of NKG2D, TRAIL, and FASL. The results suggest the possible use of HI NK cells for cancer immunotherapy and prescreening of HCC cells to help identify the most effective NK cell therapy recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Hwang
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Jaeseok Han
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Ji-Seok Baek
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Eunyoung Tak
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Gi-Won Song
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Sung-Gyu Lee
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Dong-Hwan Jung
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Gil-Chun Park
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Chul-Soo Ahn
- Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
| | - Nayoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine & Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea.
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22
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Kim N, Lee HH, Lee HJ, Choi WS, Lee J, Kim HS. Natural killer cells as a promising therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. Arch Pharm Res 2019; 42:591-606. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-019-01143-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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23
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Kennis BA, Michel KA, Brugmann WB, Laureano A, Tao RH, Somanchi SS, Einstein SA, Bravo-Alegria JB, Maegawa S, Wahba A, Kiany S, Gordon N, Silla L, Schellingerhout D, Khatua S, Zaky W, Sandberg D, Cooper L, Lee DA, Bankson JA, Gopalakrishnan V. Monitoring of intracerebellarly-administered natural killer cells with fluorine-19 MRI. J Neurooncol 2019; 142:395-407. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-019-03091-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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24
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Nayyar G, Chu Y, Cairo MS. Overcoming Resistance to Natural Killer Cell Based Immunotherapies for Solid Tumors. Front Oncol 2019; 9:51. [PMID: 30805309 PMCID: PMC6378304 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, the prognosis of several solid tumor malignancies remains poor. Different factors associated with solid tumors including a varied genetic signature, complex molecular signaling pathways, defective cross talk between the tumor cells and immune cells, hypoxic and immunosuppressive effects of tumor microenvironment result in a treatment resistant and metastatic phenotype. Over the past several years, immunotherapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic option against multiple malignancies. The unique ability of natural killer (NK) cells to target cancer cells without antigen specificity makes them an ideal candidate for use against solid tumors. However, the outcomes of adoptive NK cell infusions into patients with solid tumors have been disappointing. Extensive studies have been done to investigate different strategies to improve the NK cell function, trafficking and tumor targeting. Use of cytokines and cytokine analogs has been well described and utilized to enhance the proliferation, stimulation and persistence of NK cells. Other techniques like blocking the human leukocyte antigen-killer cell receptors (KIR) interactions with anti-KIR monoclonal antibodies, preventing CD16 receptor shedding, increasing the expression of activating NK cell receptors like NKG2D, and use of immunocytokines and immune checkpoint inhibitors can enhance NK cell mediated cytotoxicity. Using genetically modified NK cells with chimeric antigen receptors and bispecific and trispecific NK cell engagers, NK cells can be effectively redirected to the tumor cells improving their cytotoxic potential. In this review, we have described these strategies and highlighted the need to further optimize these strategies to improve the clinical outcome of NK cell based immunotherapy against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Nayyar
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Yaya Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Mitchell S Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
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25
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Shapovalova M, Pyper SR, Moriarity BS, LeBeau AM. The Molecular Imaging of Natural Killer Cells. Mol Imaging 2019; 17:1536012118794816. [PMID: 30203710 PMCID: PMC6134484 DOI: 10.1177/1536012118794816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent success of autologous T cell-based therapies in hematological malignancies has spurred interest in applying similar immunotherapy strategies to the treatment of solid tumors. Identified nearly 4 decades ago, natural killer (NK) cells represent an arguably better cell type for immunotherapy development. Natural killer cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes that mediate the direct killing of transformed cells with reduced or absent major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and are the effector cells in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Unlike T cells, they do not require human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching allowing for the adoptive transfer of allogeneic NK cells in the clinic. The development of NK cell-based therapies for solid tumors is complicated by the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment that can potentially disarm NK cells rendering them inactive. The molecular imaging of NK cells in vivo will be crucial for the development of new therapies allowing for the immediate assessment of therapeutic response and off-target effects. A number of groups have investigated methods for detecting NK cells by optical, nuclear, and magnetic resonance imaging. In this review, we will provide an overview of the advances made in imaging NK cells in both preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Shapovalova
- 1 Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sean R Pyper
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Branden S Moriarity
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Aaron M LeBeau
- 1 Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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26
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Direct potentiation of NK cell cytotoxicity by 8-azaguanine with potential antineoplastic activity. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 67:152-159. [PMID: 30551032 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study identified 8-azaguanine (8-AG) as a novel immunomodulatory drug (IMiD) through a high-throughput screen of the Preswick Chemical Library in a model of human NK cell cytotoxicity against blood cancer cells. 8-AG, originally developed as an antineoplastic agent, significantly increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells and was superior in this activity to previously known IMiDs, such as fluoxetine and amphotericin B, identified from the same library. IFN-γ expression was also slightly increased by 8-AG. Mechanistically, 8-AG increased conjugate formation between NK and target cells and subsequent cytolytic granule polarization, but not calcium mobilization, regulation of activating receptors, or expression of perforin or granzyme B. Thus, the antineoplastic activity of 8-AG should be re-evaluated in light of this novel potentiating effect on NK cells.
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27
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Kwon HJ, Lee H, Choi GE, Kwon SJ, Song AY, Kim SJ, Choi WS, Hwang SH, Kim SC, Kim HS. Ginsenoside F1 Promotes Cytotoxic Activity of NK Cells via Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1-Dependent Mechanism. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2785. [PMID: 30546365 PMCID: PMC6279892 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginsenosides are the principal active components of ginseng and are considered attractive candidates for combination cancer therapy because they can kill tumors and have favorable safety profiles. However, the overall benefit of ginsenosides remains unclear, particularly in cancer immunosurveillance, considering the controversial results showing repression or promotion of immune responses. Here we identify a potentiating role of ginsenoside F1 (G-F1) in cancer surveillance by natural killer (NK) cells. Among 15 different ginsenosides, G-F1 most potently enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity in response to diverse activating receptors and cancer cells. G-F1 also improved cancer surveillance in mouse models of lymphoma clearance and metastatic melanoma that rely on NK cell activity. G-F1-treated NK cells exhibited elevated cytotoxic potential such as upregulation of cytotoxic mediators and of activation signals upon stimulation. NK cell potentiation by G-F1 was antagonized by insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 blockade and recapitulated by IGF-1 treatment, suggesting the involvement of IGF-1. Thus, our results suggest that G-F1 enhances NK cell function and may have chemotherapeutic potential in NK cell-based immunotherapy. We anticipate our results to be a starting point for further comprehensive studies of ginsenosides in the immune cells mediating cancer surveillance and the development of putative therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyung-Joon Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Heejae Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Go-Eun Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, South Korea
| | - Soon Jae Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ah Young Song
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - So Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Woo Seon Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang-Hyun Hwang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Chang Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hun Sik Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Microbiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
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28
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Kim N, Kim HS. Targeting Checkpoint Receptors and Molecules for Therapeutic Modulation of Natural Killer Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2041. [PMID: 30250471 PMCID: PMC6139314 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the most promising therapeutic modalities for cancer treatment is the blockade of immune checkpoint pathways, which are frequently co-opted by tumors as a major mechanism of immune escape. CTLA-4 and PD-1 are the representative examples, and their blockade by therapeutic antibodies leads to enhanced anti-tumor immunity with durable clinical responses, but only in a minority of patients. This has highlighted the need to identify and target additional immune checkpoints that can be exploited to further enhance immune responses to refractory cancers. These emerging targets include natural killer (NK) cell-directed checkpoint receptors (KIR and CD94/NKG2A) as well as the NK- and T cell-expressed checkpoints TIM-3, TIGIT, CD96, and LAG-3. Interestingly, the potentiation of anti-tumor immunity by checkpoint blockade relies not only on T cells but also on other components of the innate immune system, including NK cells. NK cells are innate lymphoid cells that efficiently kill tumor cells without MHC specificity, which is complementary to the MHC-restricted tumor lysis mediated by cytotoxic T cells. However, the role of these immune checkpoints in modulating the function of NK cells remains unclear and somewhat controversial. Unraveling the mechanisms by which these immune checkpoints function in NK cells and other immune cells will pave the way to developing new therapeutic strategies to optimize anti-tumor immunity while limiting cancer immune escape. Here, we focus on recent findings regarding the roles of immune checkpoints in regulating NK cell function and their potential application in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hun Sik Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Microbiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center (SCIRC), Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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29
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Deng X, Luo S, Luo X, Hu M, Ma F, Wang Y, Zhou L, Huang R. Fraction From Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides Reduces Immunotoxicity and Enhances Antitumor Activity of Doxorubicin in Mice. Integr Cancer Ther 2018; 17:860-866. [PMID: 29355051 PMCID: PMC6142073 DOI: 10.1177/1534735417753544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate whether fraction from
Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) could reduce
immunotoxicity and enhance antitumor activity of doxorubicin (Dox) in mice. A
water-soluble LBP fraction, designated LBP3, was isolated from edible Chinese
herbal Lycium barbarum and used in this study. To investigate
the effect of LBP3 on Dox-induced immunotoxicity, tumor-free mice were used and
treated with either normal saline, Dox, or Dox plus LBP3. To investigate the
effect of LBP3 on antitumor activity of Dox, H22 tumor-bearing mice were used
and treated with either normal saline, Dox, LBP3, or Dox plus LBP3. The results
showed that LBP3 did not protect against the body weight loss caused by Dox, but
it promoted the recovery of body weight starting at day 5 after Dox treatment in
tumor-free mice. LBP3 also improved peripheral blood lymphocyte counts, promoted
cell cycle recovery in bone marrow cells, and restored the cytotoxicity of
natural killer cells. Furthermore, in H22 tumor-bearing mice, LBP3 enhanced
antitumor activity of Dox and improved peripheral blood lymphocyte counts and
the cytotoxicity of splenocytes. In brief, our results demonstrated that LBP3
could reduce the immunotoxicity and enhance antitumor activity of Dox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangliang Deng
- 1 Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China.,2 Infinitus Chinese Herbal Immunity Research Centre, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Luo
- 1 Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Luo
- 1 Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Minghua Hu
- 2 Infinitus Chinese Herbal Immunity Research Centre, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Fangli Ma
- 2 Infinitus Chinese Herbal Immunity Research Centre, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- 2 Infinitus Chinese Herbal Immunity Research Centre, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Lian Zhou
- 1 Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Huang
- 1 Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China
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30
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Gangadaran P, Ahn BC. Molecular Imaging: A Useful Tool for the Development of Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1090. [PMID: 28955332 PMCID: PMC5600950 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular imaging is a relatively new discipline that allows visualization, characterization, and measurement of the biological processes in living subjects, including humans, at a cellular and molecular level. The interaction between cancer cells and natural killer (NK) cells is complex and incompletely understood. Despite our limited knowledge, progress in the search for immune cell therapies against cancer could be significantly improved by dynamic and non-invasive visualization and tracking of immune cells and by visualization of the response of cancer cells to therapies in preclinical and clinical studies. Molecular imaging is an essential tool for these studies, and a multimodal molecular imaging approach can be applied to monitor immune cells in vivo, for instance, to visualize therapeutic effects. In this review, we discuss the usefulness of NK cells in cancer therapies and the preclinical and clinical usefulness of molecular imaging in NK cell-based therapies. Furthermore, we discuss different molecular imaging modalities for use with NK cell-based therapies, and their preclinical and clinical applications in animal and human subjects. Molecular imaging has contributed to the development of NK cell-based therapies against cancers in animal models and to the refinement of current cell-based cancer immunotherapies. Developing sensitive and reproducible non-invasive molecular imaging technologies for in vivo NK cell monitoring and for real-time assessment of therapeutic effects will accelerate the development of NK cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Gangadaran
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine and Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Byeong-Cheol Ahn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine and Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
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31
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Engineering Natural Killer Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1769-1781. [PMID: 28668320 PMCID: PMC5542803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The past several years have seen tremendous advances in the engineering of immune effector cells as therapy for cancer. While chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have been used extensively to redirect the specificity of autologous T cells against hematological malignancies with striking clinical results, studies of CAR-modified natural killer (NK) cells have been largely preclinical. In this review, we focus on recent advances in NK cell engineering, particularly on preclinical evidence suggesting that NK cells may be as effective as T cells in recognizing and killing targets after genetic modification. We will discuss strategies to introduce CARs into both primary NK cells and NK cell lines in an effort to provide antigen specificity, the challenges of manufacturing engineered NK cells, and evidence supporting the effectiveness of this approach from preclinical and early-phase clinical studies using CAR-engineered NK cells. CAR-NK cells hold great promise as a novel cellular immunotherapy against refractory malignancies. Notably, NK cells can provide an "off-the-shelf" product, eliminating the need for a personalized and patient-specific product that plagues current CAR-T cell therapies. The ability to more potently direct NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity against refractory tumors through the expression of CAR is likely to contribute to the recent paradigm shift in cancer treatment.
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32
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Amphotericin B, an Anti-Fungal Medication, Directly Increases the Cytotoxicity of NK Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18061262. [PMID: 28608807 PMCID: PMC5486084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) present one example of immunomodulatory agents that improve cancer immunotherapy. Based on the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells against cancer cells, a high throughput screening method for the identification of novel immunomodulatory molecules with the potential to stimulate NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells was designed and tested using an approved drug library. Among the primary hit compounds, the anti-fungal drug amphotericin B (AMP-B) increased the cytotoxicity of NK cell line and human primary NK cells in a direct manner. The increase in NK cell activity was related to increased formation of NK-target cell conjugates and the subsequent granule polarization toward target cells. The results of the present study indicate that AMP-B could serve a dual function as an anti-fungal and immunomodulatory drug.
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