1
|
Zhang Z, Zhang W, Liu X, Yan Y, Fu W. T lymphocyte‑related immune response and immunotherapy in gastric cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 2024; 28:537. [PMID: 39319215 PMCID: PMC11421013 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14670] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains a global healthcare challenge because of its high incidence and poor prognosis. The efficacy of current chemotherapy regimens for advanced GC is limited. T cells, which have been implicated in the progression of GC, have a significant impact in the tumor microenvironment. With a more detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying the cancer immunoediting process, immunotherapy may become a promising treatment option for patients with GC. Several clinical trials are currently investigating different mechanisms targeting the tumor immune response. The present review summarized T cell-involved immune responses and various immunotherapy strategies for GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxiong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Yongjia Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Weihua Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Budczies J, Kazdal D, Menzel M, Beck S, Kluck K, Altbürger C, Schwab C, Allgäuer M, Ahadova A, Kloor M, Schirmacher P, Peters S, Krämer A, Christopoulos P, Stenzinger A. Tumour mutational burden: clinical utility, challenges and emerging improvements. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:725-742. [PMID: 39192001 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00932-9] [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: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Tumour mutational burden (TMB), defined as the total number of somatic non-synonymous mutations present within the cancer genome, varies across and within cancer types. A first wave of retrospective and prospective research identified TMB as a predictive biomarker of response to immune-checkpoint inhibitors and culminated in the disease-agnostic approval of pembrolizumab for patients with TMB-high tumours based on data from the Keynote-158 trial. Although the applicability of outcomes from this trial to all cancer types and the optimal thresholds for TMB are yet to be ascertained, research into TMB is advancing along three principal avenues: enhancement of TMB assessments through rigorous quality control measures within the laboratory process, including the mitigation of confounding factors such as limited panel scope and low tumour purity; refinement of the traditional TMB framework through the incorporation of innovative concepts such as clonal, persistent or HLA-corrected TMB, tumour neoantigen load and mutational signatures; and integration of TMB with established and emerging biomarkers such as PD-L1 expression, microsatellite instability, immune gene expression profiles and the tumour immune contexture. Given its pivotal functions in both the pathogenesis of cancer and the ability of the immune system to recognize tumours, a profound comprehension of the foundational principles and the continued evolution of TMB are of paramount relevance for the field of oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Budczies
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Translational Lung Research Center (TLRC) Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Daniel Kazdal
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Center (TLRC) Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Menzel
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Beck
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Kluck
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Altbürger
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Constantin Schwab
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Allgäuer
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aysel Ahadova
- Department of Applied Tumour Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumour Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumour Biology, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumour Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schirmacher
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Solange Peters
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alwin Krämer
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Hematology/Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petros Christopoulos
- Translational Lung Research Center (TLRC) Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik and National Center for Tumour Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Translational Lung Research Center (TLRC) Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Center for Personalized Medicine (ZPM), Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee JJ, Yeh JJ. Updates in Molecular Profiling of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Surg Clin North Am 2024; 104:939-950. [PMID: 39237169 PMCID: PMC11377860 DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2024.04.001] [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] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Outcomes from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain poor and better methods of prognostication and therapeutic approaches are needed. Recent advances in cancer genomics have led to the development of molecular subtypes of PDAC associated with clinical outcomes. Current evidence also suggests that the subtypes have differential response to first-line chemotherapy regimens. PDAC is also characterized by different stroma and immune environments. Further work is needed to confirm the utility of these subtypes to predicting response to different systemic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaewon James Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 170 Manning Dr, CB7213, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7213, USA
| | - Jen Jen Yeh
- Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 170 Manning Dr, CB7213, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7213, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 450 West Drive, CB7295, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tokita S, Fusagawa M, Matsumoto S, Mariya T, Umemoto M, Hirohashi Y, Hata F, Saito T, Kanaseki T, Torigoe T. Identification of immunogenic HLA class I and II neoantigens using surrogate immunopeptidomes. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado6491. [PMID: 39292790 PMCID: PMC11409964 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado6491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Neoantigens arising from somatic mutations are tumor specific and induce antitumor host T cell responses. However, their sequences are individual specific and need to be identified for each patient for therapeutic applications. Here, we present a proteogenomic approach for neoantigen identification, named Neoantigen Selection using a Surrogate Immunopeptidome (NESSIE). This approach uses an autologous wild-type immunopeptidome as a surrogate for the tumor immunopeptidome and allows human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-agnostic identification of both HLA class I (HLA-I) and HLA class II (HLA-II) neoantigens. We demonstrate the direct identification of highly immunogenic HLA-I and HLA-II neoantigens using NESSIE in patients with colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer. Fresh or frozen tumor samples are not required for analysis, making it applicable to many patients in clinical settings. We also demonstrate tumor prevention by vaccination with selected neoantigens in a preclinical mouse model. This approach may benefit personalized T cell-mediated immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serina Tokita
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
- Joint Research Center for Immunoproteogenomics, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Minami Fusagawa
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoru Matsumoto
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Surgery, IMS Sapporo Digestive Disease Center General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tasuku Mariya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mina Umemoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Fumitake Hata
- Department of Surgery, Sapporo Dohto Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kanaseki
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
- Joint Research Center for Immunoproteogenomics, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhao Y, Qin C, Lin C, Li Z, Zhao B, Li T, Zhang X, Wang W. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells reshape the immune microenvironment: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189183. [PMID: 39303859 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a digestive system malignancy characterized by challenging early detection, limited treatment alternatives, and generally poor prognosis. Although there have been significant advancements in immunotherapy for hematological malignancies and various solid tumors in recent decades, with impressive outcomes in recent preclinical and clinical trials, the effectiveness of these therapies in treating PDAC continues to be modest. The unique immunological microenvironment of PDAC, especially the abnormal distribution, complex composition, and variable activation states of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, greatly restricts the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Undoubtedly, integrating data from both preclinical models and human studies helps accelerate the identification of reliable molecules and pathways responsive to targeted biological therapies and immunotherapies, thereby continuously optimizing therapeutic combinations. In this review, we delve deeply into how PDAC cells regulate the immune microenvironment through complex signaling networks, affecting the quantity and functional status of immune cells to promote immune escape and tumor progression. Furthermore, we explore the multi-modal immunotherapeutic strategies currently under development, emphasizing the transformation of the immunosuppressive environment into an anti-tumor milieu by targeting specific molecular and cellular pathways, providing insights for the development of novel treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Chen Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100023, PR China; National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100023, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Karamitopoulou E, Wenning AS, Acharjee A, Aeschbacher P, Marinoni I, Zlobec I, Gloor B, Perren A. Spatial Heterogeneity of Immune Regulators Drives Dynamic Changes in Local Immune Responses, Affecting Disease Outcomes in Pancreatic Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:4215-4226. [PMID: 39007872 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-24-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered a low-immunogenic (LI) tumor with a "cold" tumor microenvironment and is mostly unresponsive to immune checkpoint blockade therapies. In this study, we decipher the impact of intratumoral heterogeneity of immune determinants on antitumor responses. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We performed spatial proteomic and transcriptomic analyses and multiplex immunofluorescence on multiple tumor regions, including tumor center (TC) and invasive front (IF), from 220 patients with PDAC, classified according to their transcriptomic immune signaling into high-immunogenic PDAC (HI-PDAC, n = 54) and LI PDAC (LI-PDAC, n = 166). Spatial compartments (tumor: pancytokeratin+/CD45- and leukocytes: pancytokeratin-/CD45+) were defined by fluorescence imaging. RESULTS HI-PDAC exhibited higher densities of cytotoxic T lymphocytes with upregulation of T-cell priming-associated immune determinants, including CD40, ITGAM, glucocorticoid-induced TNF-related receptor, CXCL10, granzyme B, IFNG, and HLA-DR, which were significantly more prominent at the IF than at the TC. In contrast, LI-PDAC exhibited immune-evasive tumor microenvironments with downregulation of immune determinants and a negative gradient from TC to IF. Patients with HI-PDAC had significantly better outcomes but showed more frequently exhausted immune phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate strategic differences in the regulation of immune determinants, leading to different levels of effectiveness of antitumor responses between HI and LI tumors and dynamic spatial changes, which affect the evolution of immune evasion and patient outcomes. This finding supports the coevolution of tumor and immune cells and may help define therapeutic vulnerabilities to improve antitumor immunity and harness the responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Karamitopoulou
- Institute of Tissue Medicine and Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anna S Wenning
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Insel University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Animesh Acharjee
- University of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Pauline Aeschbacher
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Insel University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ilaria Marinoni
- Institute of Tissue Medicine and Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Inti Zlobec
- Institute of Tissue Medicine and Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Beat Gloor
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Insel University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Aurel Perren
- Institute of Tissue Medicine and Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
He Y, Mohapatra G, Asokan S, Nobs SP, Elinav E. Microbiome modulation of antigen presentation in tolerance and inflammation. Curr Opin Immunol 2024; 91:102471. [PMID: 39277909 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2024.102471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
The microbiome regulates mammalian immune responses from early life to adulthood. Antigen presentation, orchestrating these responses, integrates commensal and pathogenic signals. However, the temporal and spatial specificity of microbiome impacts on antigen presentation and downstream tolerance versus inflammation remain incompletely understood. Herein, we review the influences of antigen presentation of microbiome-related epitopes on immunity; impacts of microbiome-based modulation of antigen presentation on innate and adaptive immune responses; and their ramifications on homeostasis and immune-related disease, ranging from auto-inflammation to tumorigenesis. We highlight mechanisms driving these influences, such as 'molecular mimicry', in which microbiome auto-antigen presentation aberrantly triggers an immune response driving autoimmunity or influences conferred by microbiome-derived metabolites on antigen-presenting cells in inflammatory bowel disease. We discuss unknowns, controversies, and challenges associated with the study of microbiome regulation of antigen presentation while demonstrating how increasing knowledge may contribute to the development of microbiome-based therapeutics modulating immune responses in a variety of clinical contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiming He
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gayatree Mohapatra
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sahana Asokan
- Microbiome & Cancer Division, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Samuel Philip Nobs
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Eran Elinav
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel; Microbiome & Cancer Division, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Basar E, Mead H, Shum B, Rauter I, Ay C, Skaletz-Rorowski A, Brockmeyer NH. Biological Barriers for Drug Delivery and Development of Innovative Therapeutic Approaches in HIV, Pancreatic Cancer, and Hemophilia A/B. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:1207. [PMID: 39339243 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16091207] [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: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological barriers remain a major obstacle for the development of innovative therapeutics. Depending on a disease's pathophysiology, the involved tissues, cell populations, and cellular components, drugs often have to overcome several biological barriers to reach their target cells and become effective in a specific cellular compartment. Human biological barriers are incredibly diverse and include multiple layers of protection and obstruction. Importantly, biological barriers are not only found at the organ/tissue level, but also include cellular structures such as the outer plasma membrane, the endolysosomal machinery, and the nuclear envelope. Nowadays, clinicians have access to a broad arsenal of therapeutics ranging from chemically synthesized small molecules, biologicals including recombinant proteins (such as monoclonal antibodies and hormones), nucleic-acid-based therapeutics, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), to modern viral-vector-mediated gene therapy. In the past decade, the therapeutic landscape has been changing rapidly, giving rise to a multitude of innovative therapy approaches. In 2018, the FDA approval of patisiran paved the way for small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to become a novel class of nucleic-acid-based therapeutics, which-upon effective drug delivery to their target cells-allow to elegantly regulate the post-transcriptional gene expression. The recent approvals of valoctocogene roxaparvovec and etranacogene dezaparvovec for the treatment of hemophilia A and B, respectively, mark the breakthrough of viral-vector-based gene therapy as a new tool to cure disease. A multitude of highly innovative medicines and drug delivery methods including mRNA-based cancer vaccines and exosome-targeted therapy is on the verge of entering the market and changing the treatment landscape for a broad range of conditions. In this review, we provide insights into three different disease entities, which are clinically, scientifically, and socioeconomically impactful and have given rise to many technological advancements: acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) as a predominant infectious disease, pancreatic carcinoma as one of the most lethal solid cancers, and hemophilia A/B as a hereditary genetic disorder. Our primary objective is to highlight the overarching principles of biological barriers that can be identified across different disease areas. Our second goal is to showcase which therapeutic approaches designed to cross disease-specific biological barriers have been promising in effectively treating disease. In this context, we will exemplify how the right selection of the drug category and delivery vehicle, mode of administration, and therapeutic target(s) can help overcome various biological barriers to prevent, treat, and cure disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emre Basar
- WIR-Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Bennett Shum
- GenePath LLC, Sydney, NSW 2067, Australia
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science, School of Medical Sciences, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Cihan Ay
- Division of Haematology and Haemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Adriane Skaletz-Rorowski
- WIR-Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Norbert H Brockmeyer
- WIR-Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health & Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Do CTP, Prochnau JY, Dominguez A, Wang P, Rao MK. The Road Ahead in Pancreatic Cancer: Emerging Trends and Therapeutic Prospects. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1979. [PMID: 39335494 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12091979] [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: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores the challenges and emerging trends in pancreatic cancer therapy. In particular, we focus on the tumor microenvironment and the potential of immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, characterized by its dense stromal architecture, presents unique challenges for effective treatment. Recent advancements have emphasized the role of the tumor microenvironment in therapeutic resistance and disease progression. We discuss novel strategies targeting the desmoplastic barrier and immunosuppressive cells to enhance immune cell infiltration and activation. Recent clinical trials, particularly those involving novel immunotherapeutic agents and tumor vaccines, are examined to understand their efficacy and limitations. Our analysis reveals that combining immunotherapy with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or drugs targeting epigenetic processes shows promise, improving overall survival rates and response to treatment. For instance, trials utilizing checkpoint inhibitors in combination with standard chemotherapies have extended disease-free survival by up to 6 months compared to chemotherapy alone. Importantly, vaccines targeting specific tumor neoantigens have shown the potential to increase patient survival. However, these approaches also face significant challenges, including overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and enhancing the delivery and efficacy of therapeutic agents. By providing an overview of both the promising results and the obstacles encountered, this review aims to highlight ongoing efforts to refine immunotherapy approaches for better patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris T P Do
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jack Y Prochnau
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Angel Dominguez
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Pei Wang
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Manjeet K Rao
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Minaei E, Ranson M, Aghmesheh M, Sluyter R, Vine KL. Enhancing pancreatic cancer immunotherapy: Leveraging localized delivery strategies through the use of implantable devices and scaffolds. J Control Release 2024; 373:145-160. [PMID: 38996923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.07.023] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains the predominant type of upper gastrointestinal tract cancer, associated with heightened morbidity and a survival rate below 12%. While immunotherapy has brought about transformative changes in the standards of care for most solid tumors, its application in PC is hindered by the ''cold tumor'' microenvironment, marked by the presence of immunosuppressive cells. Modest response rates in PC are attributed, in part to, the fibrotic stroma that obstructs the delivery of systemic immunotherapy. Furthermore, the occurrence of immune-related adverse events (iRAEs) often necessitates the use of sub-therapeutic doses or treatment discontinuation. In the pursuit of innovative approaches to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy for PC, implantable drug delivery devices and scaffolds emerge as promising strategies. These technologies offer the potential for sustained drug delivery directly to the tumor site, overcoming stromal barriers, immunosuppression, T cell exclusion, immunotherapy resistance, optimizing drug dosage, and mitigating systemic toxicity. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common and aggressive form of PC, accompanied by a critical analysis of the challenges the microenvironment presents to the development of successful combinational immunotherapy approaches. Despite efforts, these approaches have thus far fallen short in enhancing treatment outcomes for PDAC. The review will subsequently delve into the imperative need for refining delivery strategies, providing an examination of past and ongoing studies in the field of localized immunotherapy for PDAC. Addressing these issues will lay the groundwork for the development of effective new therapies, thereby enhancing treatment response, patient survival, and overall quality of life for individuals diagnosed with PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Minaei
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - M Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - M Aghmesheh
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Bright Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - R Sluyter
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - K L Vine
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cao C, Yue S, Lu A, Liang C. Host-Gut Microbiota Metabolic Interactions and Their Role in Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers. Pharmacol Res 2024; 207:107321. [PMID: 39038631 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107321] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The critical role of the gut microbiome in gastrointestinal cancers is becoming increasingly clear. Imbalances in the gut microbial community, referred to as dysbiosis, are linked to increased risks for various forms of gastrointestinal cancers. Pathogens like Fusobacterium and Helicobacter pylori relate to the onset of esophageal and gastric cancers, respectively, while microbes such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Clostridium species have been associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer. In colorectal cancer, bacteria such as Fusobacterium nucleatum are known to stimulate the growth of tumor cells and trigger cancer-promoting pathways. On the other hand, beneficial microbes like Bifidobacteria offer a protective effect, potentially inhibiting the development of gastrointestinal cancers. The potential for therapeutic interventions that manipulate the gut microbiome is substantial, including strategies to engineer anti-tumor metabolites and employ microbiota-based treatments. Despite the progress in understanding the influence of the microbiome on gastrointestinal cancers, significant challenges remain in identifying and understanding the precise contributions of specific microbial species and their metabolic products. This knowledge is essential for leveraging the role of the gut microbiome in the development of precise diagnostics and targeted therapies for gastrointestinal cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhao Cao
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Siran Yue
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou 510006, China; Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Chao Liang
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 999077, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zou S, Zhang L, Jiang C, Li F, Yang Y, Deng X, Zhang J, Chen H, Jiang L, Cheng X, Deng L, Lin L, Shen B, Wen C, Zhan Q. Driver mutation subtypes involve with differentiated immunophenotypes influencing pancreatic cancer outcomes. Cancer Lett 2024; 599:217134. [PMID: 39094824 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217134] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Despite many studies focusing on the prognostic biomarkers in pancreatic adenocarcinomas (PAADs), there is ill-informed about the relationships between their genomic features and immune characteristics. Herein, we deeply investigated the involvement of major driver mutation subtypes with immunophenotypes impacting PAAD outcomes. Based on public data analyses of RNA expression-based immune subtypes in PAAD, in contrast to KRAS G12D & TP53 co-mutant patients with poor outcomes, the best immune subtype C3 (inflammatory) characterized by high Th1/Th2 ratio was relatively enriched in KRASnon-G12DTP53wt patients with better survival, whereas the inferior subtype C2 (IFN-γ dominant) with low Th1/Th2 ratio was more common in the former than in the latter. Moreover, contrary to the highly immunosuppressive microenvironment (high Treg, high ratio of Treg to tumor-specific CD4+ T cell) in KRASG12DTP53mut patients, KRASG12VTP53wt individuals exhibited an inflamed context profiled by multiplex immunohistochemistry. It could be responsible for their outstanding survival advantage over others in postsurgical PAAD patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy as shown by our cohort. Together, KRASG12VTP53wt may be a promising biomarker for prognostic evaluation and screening certain candidates with PAAD to get desirable survival benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Zou
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, 88 Danshan Road, Xidong Chuangrong Building, Suite C 1310-1318, Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu, 214104, PR China
| | - Cen Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Fanlu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ying Yang
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, 88 Danshan Road, Xidong Chuangrong Building, Suite C 1310-1318, Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu, 214104, PR China
| | - Xiaxing Deng
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, 88 Danshan Road, Xidong Chuangrong Building, Suite C 1310-1318, Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu, 214104, PR China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Lingxi Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xueyan Cheng
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, 88 Danshan Road, Xidong Chuangrong Building, Suite C 1310-1318, Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu, 214104, PR China
| | - Lisha Deng
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, 88 Danshan Road, Xidong Chuangrong Building, Suite C 1310-1318, Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu, 214104, PR China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
| | - Baiyong Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Chenlei Wen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Qian Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Pancreatic Neoplasms, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Luo X, McAndrews KM, Arian KA, Morse SJ, Boeker V, Kumbhar SV, Hu Y, Mahadevan KK, Church KA, Chitta S, Ryujin NT, Hensel J, Dai J, Dowlatshahi DP, Sugimoto H, Kirtley ML, LeBleu VS, Shalapour S, Simmons JH, Kalluri R. Development of an engineered extracellular vesicles-based vaccine platform for combined delivery of mRNA and protein to induce functional immunity. J Control Release 2024; 374:550-562. [PMID: 39146981 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
mRNA incorporated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) became a new class of vaccine modality for induction of immunity against COVID-19 and ushered in a new era in vaccine development. Here, we report a novel, easy-to-execute, and cost effective engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs)-based combined mRNA and protein vaccine platform (EVX-M+P vaccine) and explore its utility in proof-of-concept immunity studies in the settings of cancer and infectious disease. As a first example, we engineered EVs, natural nanoparticle carriers shed by all cells, to contain ovalbumin mRNA and protein (EVOvaM+P vaccine) to serve as cancer vaccine against ovalbumin-expressing melanoma tumors. EVOvaM+P administration to mice with established melanoma tumors resulted in tumor regression associated with effective humoral and adaptive immune responses. As a second example, we generated engineered EVs that contain Spike (S) mRNA and protein to serve as a combined mRNA and protein vaccine (EVSpikeM+P vaccine) against SARS-CoV-2 infection. EVSpikeM+P vaccine administration in mice and baboons elicited robust production of neutralizing IgG antibodies against RBD (receptor binding domain) of S protein and S protein specific T cell responses. Our proof-of-concept study describes a new platform with an ability for rapid development of combination mRNA and protein vaccines employing EVs for deployment against cancer and other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Luo
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kathleen M McAndrews
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kent A Arian
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Sami J Morse
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Viktoria Boeker
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Shreyasee V Kumbhar
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Yingying Hu
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Krishnan K Mahadevan
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kaira A Church
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Sriram Chitta
- Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States of America
| | - Nicolas T Ryujin
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Janine Hensel
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Jianli Dai
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Dara P Dowlatshahi
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Hikaru Sugimoto
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Michelle L Kirtley
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Valerie S LeBleu
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America; Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Shabnam Shalapour
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Joe H Simmons
- Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States of America
| | - Raghu Kalluri
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States of America; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
van Eijck CWF, Ju J, van 't Land FR, Verheij M, Li Y, Stubbs A, Doukas M, Lila K, Heij LR, Wiltberger G, Alonso L, Malats N, Groot Koerkamp B, Vietsch EE, van Eijck CHJ. The tumor immune microenvironment in resected treatment-naive pancreatic cancer patients with long-term survival. Pancreatology 2024:S1424-3903(24)00711-7. [PMID: 39218754 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2024.08.014] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers worldwide. Presently, only a fraction of patients undergo successful surgical resection, the most effective treatment. Enhancing treatment strategies necessitates a deep comprehension of the factors underlying extended survival after surgical resection in patients. METHODS This study aims to identify the important factors of PDAC patients' long-term survival with metatranscriptomics and multiplex immunofluorescence (IF) staining analyses. Specifically, differences in tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) were investigated between treatment-naïve PDAC short-term survivors (STS, overall survival <6 months) and long-term survivors (LTS, overall survival >5 years). RESULTS As a result, we detected 589 over-expressed genes, including HOXB9, CDA, and HOXB8, and 507 under-expressed genes, including AMY2B, SCARA5, and SLC2A2 in LTS. Most of the Reactome overbiological pathways enriched in our data were over-expressed in LTS, such as RHO GTPase Effectors and Cell Cycle Checkpoints. Eleven microbiomes significantly differed between LTS and STS, including Sphingopyxis and Capnocytophaga. Importantly, we demonstrate that the TIME profile with an increased abundance of memory B cells and the reduction of M0 and pro-tumoral M2 macrophages are associated with a good prognosis in PDAC. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we delved into the TIME with metatranscriptomics and IF staining analyses to understand the prerequisite of prolonged survival in PDAC patients. In LTS, several biological pathways were overexpressed, and specific microbiomes were identified. Furthermore, apparent differences in driven immune factors were found that provide valuable insights into developing new treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Casper W F van Eijck
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Jie Ju
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Freek R van 't Land
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike Verheij
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yunlei Li
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andrew Stubbs
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Doukas
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karishma Lila
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lara R Heij
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Center University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Essen, Germany; Department of General, Gastrointestinal, Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Georg Wiltberger
- Department of General, Gastrointestinal, Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lola Alonso
- Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Núria Malats
- Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Bas Groot Koerkamp
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline E Vietsch
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Casper H J van Eijck
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Freeman P, Bellomo G, Ireland L, Abudula M, Luckett T, Oberst M, Stafferton R, Ghaneh P, Halloran C, Schmid MC, Mielgo A. Inhibition of insulin-like growth factors increases production of CXCL9/10 by macrophages and fibroblasts and facilitates CD8 + cytotoxic T cell recruitment to pancreatic tumours. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1382538. [PMID: 39165364 PMCID: PMC11334161 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1382538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal malignancy with an urgent unmet clinical need for new therapies. Using a combination of in vitro assays and in vivo preclinical models we demonstrate that therapeutic inhibition of the IGF signalling axis promotes the accumulation of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells within the tumour microenvironment of PDAC tumours. Mechanistically, we show that IGF blockade promotes macrophage and fibroblast production of the chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 to facilitate CD8+ T cell recruitment and trafficking towards the PDAC tumour. Exploring this pathway further, we show that IGF inhibition leads to increased STAT1 transcriptional activity, correlating with a downregulation of the AKT/STAT3 signalling axis, in turn promoting Cxcl9 and Cxcl10 gene transcription. Using patient derived tumour explants, we also demonstrate that our findings translate into the human setting. PDAC tumours are frequently described as "immunologically cold", therefore bolstering CD8+ T cell recruitment to PDAC tumours through IGF inhibition may serve to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors which rely on the presence of CD8+ T cells in tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Freeman
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Gaia Bellomo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Ireland
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Maidinaimu Abudula
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Teifion Luckett
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Oberst
- Department of Oncology Research, AstraZeneca, One Medimmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Ruth Stafferton
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Ghaneh
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Halloran
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Michael C. Schmid
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ainhoa Mielgo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang Z, Ma S, Li S, Chen Z, Song R, Wang Z. MSH6 germline mutations leading to Lynch syndrome-associated cholangiocarcinoma: a case report. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1414665. [PMID: 39161380 PMCID: PMC11330888 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1414665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome, a hereditary cancer susceptibility syndrome, arises from pathogenic mutations in mismatch repair genes. This syndrome is strongly linked to colorectal and endometrial cancers, as well as an elevated risk for other cancers such as gastric, ovarian, renal pelvis/ureter, and prostate. Notably, Lynch syndrome is rarely associated with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). In this case study, we present a unique instance of Lynch syndrome-related CCA resulting from a singular MSH6 mutation. Notably, our findings reveal discrepancies between immunohistochemistry (IHC) and microsatellite stability results compared to genetic testing outcomes. This discrepancy underscores the limitations of solely relying on IHC analysis and microsatellite stability testing for the detection of hereditary tumors, emphasizing the crucial role of genetic testing in such cases. This insight enhances our comprehension of the mechanisms involved in cancer development and underscores the significance of thorough analysis integrating immunohistochemistry and genetic testing for diagnosing Lynch syndrome-related cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zhanpeng Wang
- Department of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lu YQ, Qiao H, Tan XR, Liu N. Broadening oncological boundaries: the intratumoral microbiota. Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:807-822. [PMID: 38310023 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
The microbiota of solid tumors was identified >100 years ago; however, heterogeneous composition and diversity have been revealed only recently. Growing evidence has suggested that several functional mechanisms of the intratumoral microbiota affect tumorigenesis and progression, suggesting that the intratumoral microbiota is a promising biomarker for multiple cancers. The low biomass of the intratumoral microbiota poses a major challenge to related research, thus necessitating the use of a multiple-modality integrated framework to resolve this dilemma. Advanced techniques such as single-cell sequencing provide significant clues, and the gradual optimization of functional experiments and culture-based methods enables deeper investigation of the underlying mechanisms involved. In this review, we outline the current state of research on the intratumoral microbiota and describe the challenges and comprehensive strategies for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Qi Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P.R. China
| | - Han Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P.R. China
| | - Xi-Rong Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P.R. China
| | - Na Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ehrlich R, Glynn E, Singh M, Ghersi D. Computational Methods for Predicting Key Interactions in T Cell-Mediated Adaptive Immunity. Annu Rev Biomed Data Sci 2024; 7:295-316. [PMID: 38748864 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-biodatasci-102423-122741] [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: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
The adaptive immune system recognizes pathogen- and cancer-specific features and is endowed with memory, enabling it to respond quickly and efficiently to repeated encounters with the same antigens. T cells play a central role in the adaptive immune system by directly targeting intracellular pathogens and helping to activate B cells to secrete antibodies. Several fundamental protein interactions-including those between major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins and antigen-derived peptides as well as between T cell receptors and peptide-MHC complexes-underlie the ability of T cells to recognize antigens with great precision. Computational approaches to predict these interactions are increasingly being used for medically relevant applications, including vaccine design and prediction of patient response to cancer immunotherapies. We provide computational researchers with an accessible introduction to the adaptive immune system, review computational approaches to predict the key protein interactions underlying T cell-mediated adaptive immunity, and highlight remaining challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Ehrlich
- School of Interdisciplinary Informatics, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska, USA;
| | - Eric Glynn
- Lewis-Sigler Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mona Singh
- Department of Computer Science, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA;
- Lewis-Sigler Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Dario Ghersi
- School of Interdisciplinary Informatics, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schnell A. Stem-like T cells in cancer and autoimmunity. Immunol Rev 2024; 325:9-22. [PMID: 38804499 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13356] [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: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Stem-like T cells are characterized by their ability to self-renew, survive long-term, and give rise to a heterogeneous pool of effector and memory T cells. Recent advances in single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) and lineage tracing technologies revealed an important role for stem-like T cells in both autoimmunity and cancer. In cancer, stem-like T cells constitute an important arm of the anti-tumor immune response by giving rise to effector T cells that mediate tumor control. In contrast, in autoimmunity stem-like T cells perform an unfavorable role by forming a reservoir of long-lived autoreactive cells that replenish the pathogenic, effector T-cell pool and thereby driving disease pathology. This review provides background on the discovery of stem-like T cells and their function in cancer and autoimmunity. Moreover, the influence of the microbiota and metabolism on the stem-like T-cell pool is summarized. Lastly, the implications of our knowledge about stem-like T cells for clinical treatment strategies for cancer and autoimmunity will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Schnell
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang T, Zhang X, Chen J, Zhang X, Zhang Y. Harnessing microbial antigens as cancer antigens: a promising avenue for cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1411490. [PMID: 39139570 PMCID: PMC11319170 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1411490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by leveraging the immune system's innate capabilities to combat malignancies. Despite the promise of tumor antigens in stimulating anti-tumor immune responses, their clinical utility is hampered by limitations in eliciting robust and durable immune reactions, exacerbated by tumor heterogeneity and immune evasion mechanisms. Recent insights into the immunogenic properties of host homologous microbial antigens have sparked interest in their potential for augmenting anti-tumor immunity while minimizing off-target effects. This review explores the therapeutic potential of microbial antigen peptides in tumor immunotherapy, beginning with an overview of tumor antigens and their challenges in clinical translation. We further explore the intricate relationship between microorganisms and tumor development, elucidating the concept of molecular mimicry and its implications for immune recognition of tumor-associated antigens. Finally, we discuss methodologies for identifying and characterizing microbial antigen peptides, highlighting their immunogenicity and prospects for therapeutic application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xilong Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, First People’s Hospital of Xuzhou City, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jianquan Chen
- Central Laboratory, Translational Medicine Research Center, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiuwei Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, First People’s Hospital of Xuzhou City, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yunlei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Central Laboratory, Translational Medicine Research Center, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Schwarz S, Su Z, Krohn M, Löffler MW, Schlosser A, Linnebacher M. Peptide-stimulated T cells bypass immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance and eliminate autologous microsatellite instable colorectal cancer cells. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:163. [PMID: 39075115 PMCID: PMC11286882 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00645-3] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Two hypermutated colon cancer cases with patient-derived cell lines, peripheral and tumor-infiltrating T cells available were selected for detailed investigation of immunological response.T cells co-cultured with autologous tumor cells showed only low levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and failed at tumor recognition. Similarly, treatment of co-cultures with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) did not boost antitumor immune responses. Since proteinase inhibitor 9 (PI-9) was detected in tumor cells, a specific inhibitor (PI-9i) was used in addition to ICI in T cell cytotoxicity testing. However, only pre-stimulation with tumor-specific peptides (cryptic and neoantigenic) significantly increased recognition and elimination of tumor cells by T cells independently of ICI or PI-9i.We showed, that ICI resistant tumor cells can be targeted by tumor-primed T cells and also demonstrated the superiority of tumor-naïve peripheral blood T cells compared to highly exhausted tumor-infiltrating T cells. Future precision immunotherapeutic approaches should include multimodal strategies to successfully induce durable anti-tumor immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Schwarz
- Department of General Surgery, Molecular Oncology and Immunotherapy, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Zhaoran Su
- Department of General Surgery, Molecular Oncology and Immunotherapy, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Mathias Krohn
- Department of General Surgery, Molecular Oncology and Immunotherapy, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Markus W Löffler
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Partner Site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Transfusion Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlosser
- Rudolf-Virchow Center, Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Linnebacher
- Department of General Surgery, Molecular Oncology and Immunotherapy, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li X, Hou W, Xiao C, Yang H, Zhao C, Cao D. Panoramic tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6. [PMID: 39008192 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is notorious for its resistance to various treatment modalities. The genetic heterogeneity of PDAC, coupled with the presence of a desmoplastic stroma within the tumor microenvironment (TME), contributes to an unfavorable prognosis. The mechanisms and consequences of interactions among different cell types, along with spatial variations influencing cellular function, potentially play a role in the pathogenesis of PDAC. Understanding the diverse compositions of the TME and elucidating the functions of microscopic neighborhoods may contribute to understanding the immune microenvironment status in pancreatic cancer. As we delve into the spatial biology of the microscopic neighborhoods within the TME, aiding in deciphering the factors that orchestrate this intricate ecosystem. This overview delineates the fundamental constituents and the structural arrangement of the PDAC microenvironment, highlighting their impact on cancer cell biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Li
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanting Hou
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Heqi Yang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Cao
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Guasp P, Reiche C, Sethna Z, Balachandran VP. RNA vaccines for cancer: Principles to practice. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:1163-1184. [PMID: 38848720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.05.005] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Vaccines are the most impactful medicines to improve health. Though potent against pathogens, vaccines for cancer remain an unfulfilled promise. However, recent advances in RNA technology coupled with scientific and clinical breakthroughs have spurred rapid discovery and potent delivery of tumor antigens at speed and scale, transforming cancer vaccines into a tantalizing prospect. Yet, despite being at a pivotal juncture, with several randomized clinical trials maturing in upcoming years, several critical questions remain: which antigens, tumors, platforms, and hosts can trigger potent immunity with clinical impact? Here, we address these questions with a principled framework of cancer vaccination from antigen detection to delivery. With this framework, we outline features of emergent RNA technology that enable rapid, robust, real-time vaccination with somatic mutation-derived neoantigens-an emerging "ideal" antigen class-and highlight latent features that have sparked the belief that RNA could realize the enduring vision for vaccines against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Guasp
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charlotte Reiche
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zachary Sethna
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vinod P Balachandran
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Van Laethem JL, Borbath I, Prenen H, Geboes KP, Lambert A, Mitry E, Cassier PA, Blanc JF, Pilla L, Batlle JF, Garrote MR, Pazo-Cid RA, Gallego I, Smith KE, Ellmark P, Pico de Coaña Y, Ambarkhane SV, Macarulla T. Combining CD40 agonist mitazalimab with mFOLFIRINOX in previously untreated metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (OPTIMIZE-1): a single-arm, multicentre phase 1b/2 study. Lancet Oncol 2024; 25:853-864. [PMID: 38834087 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(24)00263-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current systemic therapies for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are associated with poor outcomes with a 5-year overall survival rate under 5%. We aimed to assess the safety and antitumour activity of mitazalimab, a human CD40 agonistic IgG1 antibody, with modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX; fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan), in chemotherapy-naive patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. METHODS OPTIMIZE-1 was a single-arm, multicentre, phase 1b/2 study which enrolled adults with histologically-confirmed metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and European Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 or 1 in 14 university hospitals in Belgium, France, and Spain. The primary endpoint of phase 1b was to determine the recommended phase 2 dose of intravenous mitazalimab (450 μg/kg or 900 μg/kg) when combined with intravenous mFOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2, irinotecan 150 mg/m2, fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2). In the first 21-day treatment cycle, mitazalimab was administered on days 1 and 10, and mFOLFIRINOX on day 8. In subsequent 14-day cycles mitazalimab was administered 2 days after mFOLFIRINOX. The phase 2 primary endpoint was objective response rate. Activity and safety analyses were conducted on the full analysis set (all patients who received the combination of mitazalimab at the recommended phase 2 dose and mFOLFIRINOX for at least two treatment cycles) and safety set (all patients who received any study treatment), respectively. Enrolment is complete, and data represents a primary analysis of the ongoing trial. The trial is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04888312). FINDINGS Between Sept 29, 2021, and March 28, 2023, 88 patients were screened and 70 patients were enrolled (40 [57%] were female and 30 [43%] were male). In phase 1b, 900 μg/kg mitazalimab was determined as the recommended phase 2 dose. Overall, five patients received 450 μg/kg mitazalimab; 65 received 900 μg/kg mitazalimab. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed at 450 μg/kg, and one dose-limiting toxicity was observed at 900 μg/kg. 57 patients were evaluated for activity, and all 70 patients were included in the safety set. At data cutoff on Nov 14, 2023, median follow-up was 12·7 months (95% CI 11·1-15·7). Of the 57 patients, 29 (51%) remained on study and 18 (32%) remained on treatment. The primary endpoint (objective response rate >30%) was met (objective response rates in 23 [40%]; one-sided 90% CI ≥32 of 57 patients). The most common grade 3 or worse adverse events were neutropenia (18 [26%] of 70 patients), hypokalaemia (11 patients [16%]), and anaemia and thrombocytopenia (eight patients [11%]). Serious adverse events were reported in 29 (41%) of 70 patients, the most common being vomiting (five [7%] of 70 patients), decreased appetite (four [6%]), and diarrhoea and cholangitis (three [4%] of 70 patients for each), none considered related to mitazalimab. No treatment-related deaths were reported. INTERPRETATION Mitazalimab with mFOLFIRINOX demonstrated manageable safety and encouraging activity, warranting continued development in a phase 3, randomised, controlled trial. The results from OPTIMIZE-1 pave the way for further exploration and confirmation of a novel immunotherapy treatment regimen for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which is a complex and aggressive cancer with very low survival rates and restricted treatment options. FUNDING Alligator Bioscience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Luc Van Laethem
- Erasme Hospital, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Ivan Borbath
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | - Hans Prenen
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Karen Paula Geboes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Digestive Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aurélien Lambert
- Institut de Cancerologie de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France
| | - Emmanuel Mitry
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | | | - Jean-Frédéric Blanc
- Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, CHU de Bordeaux, Service Hépato-Gastroentérologie et Oncologie Digestive, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lorenzo Pilla
- Department of Gastroenterology and Digestive Oncology, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jaime Feliu Batlle
- Department of Medical Oncology, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, UAM, CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Peter Ellmark
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Alligator Bioscience, Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Du Q, Yu Z, Zhang Z, Yang J, Jonckheere N, Shi S, Wang W, Xu J, Liu J, Yu X. Identification of pancreatic adenocarcinoma immune subtype associated with tumor neoantigen from aberrant alternative splicing. J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 15:1179-1197. [PMID: 38989416 PMCID: PMC11231849 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-24-340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is referred to as an immunologically "cold" tumor that responds poorly to immunotherapy. A fundamental theory that explains the low immunogenicity of PAAD is the dramatically low tumor mutation burden (TMB) of PAAD tumors, which fails to induce sufficient immune response. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA, which could alter the proteomic diversity of many cancers, has been reported to be involved in neoantigen production. Therefore, we aim to identify novel PAAD antigens and immune subtypes through systematic bioinformatics research. Methods Data for splicing analysis were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) SpliceSeq database. Among the available algorithms, we chose CIBERSORT to evaluate the immune cell distribution among PAADs. The TCGA-PAAD expression matrix was used to construct a co-expression network. Single-cell analysis was performed based on the Seurat workflow. Results Integrated analysis of aberrantly upregulated genes, alternatively spliced genes, genes associated with nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) factors, antigen presentation and overall survival (OS) in TCGA-PAAD revealed that PLEC is a promising neoantigen for PAAD-targeted therapy. We identified a C2 TCGA-PAAD subtype that had better prognosis and more CD8+ T-cell infiltration. We propose a novel immune subtyping system for PAAD to indicate patient prognosis and opportunities for immunotherapy, such as immune checkpoint (ICP) inhibitors. Conclusions In conclusion, the present study used a transcriptome-guided approach to screen neoantigen candidates based on alternative splicing, NMD factors, and antigen-presenting signatures for PAAD. A prognosis model with guidance of immunotherapy will aid in patient selection for appropriate treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Du
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection/Proton & Heavy Ion Medical Research Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Radiation Oncology Department, Shanghai Concord Medical Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zifeng Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhui Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nicolas Jonckheere
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 - CANTHER - Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille, France
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiyong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mahadevan KK, Dyevoich AM, Chen Y, Li B, Sugimoto H, Sockwell AM, McAndrews KM, Sthanam LK, Wang H, Shalapour S, Watowich SS, Kalluri R. Type I conventional dendritic cells facilitate immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer. Science 2024; 384:eadh4567. [PMID: 38935717 DOI: 10.1126/science.adh4567] [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: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Inflammation and tissue damage associated with pancreatitis can precede or occur concurrently with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We demonstrate that in PDAC coupled with pancreatitis (ptPDAC), antigen-presenting type I conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) are specifically activated. Immune checkpoint blockade therapy (iCBT) leads to cytotoxic CD8+ T cell activation and elimination of ptPDAC with restoration of life span even upon PDAC rechallenge. Using PDAC antigen-loaded cDC1s as a vaccine, immunotherapy-resistant PDAC was rendered sensitive to iCBT with elimination of tumors. cDC1 vaccination coupled with iCBT identified specific CDR3 sequences in the tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells with potential therapeutic importance. This study identifies a fundamental difference in the immune microenvironment in PDAC concurrent with, or without, pancreatitis and provides a rationale for combining cDC1 vaccination with iCBT as a potential treatment option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krishnan K Mahadevan
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Allison M Dyevoich
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bingrui Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hikaru Sugimoto
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amari M Sockwell
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen M McAndrews
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lakshmi Kavitha Sthanam
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Huamin Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shabnam Shalapour
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie S Watowich
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Raghu Kalluri
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Che S, Yan Z, Feng Y, Zhao H. Unveiling the intratumoral microbiota within cancer landscapes. iScience 2024; 27:109893. [PMID: 38799560 PMCID: PMC11126819 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109893] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer research have unveiled a significant yet previously underappreciated aspect of oncology: the presence and role of intratumoral microbiota. These microbial residents, encompassing bacteria, fungi, and viruses within tumor tissues, have been found to exert considerable influence on tumor development, progression, and the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. This review aims to synthesize these groundbreaking discoveries, providing an integrated overview of the identification, characterization, and functional roles of intratumoral microbiota in cancer biology. We focus on elucidating the complex interactions between these microorganisms and the tumor microenvironment, highlighting their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The purpose of this review is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the microbial dimension in cancer, paving the way for innovative approaches in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shusheng Che
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiyong Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Yugong Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Hai Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Hu H, Xu Y, Zhang Q, Ai X, Wang T, Li H, Jin C, Ouyang C, Wu Z. Exploring prognostic and immunological characteristics of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through comprehensive genomic analysis of tertiary lymphoid structures and CD8 + T-cells. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:300. [PMID: 38850373 PMCID: PMC11162401 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05824-0] [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: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) and CD8 + T-cells are potential prognostic indicators for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We established a novel scoring system for evaluating the risk for PDAC based on TLS- and CD8 + T-cell-related genes. METHODS We analyzed single-cell sequence data from PDAC patients in the Genome Sequence Archive. Bioinformatics and machine algorithms established and validated a scoring method (T-C score) based on PDAC survival-related genes highly expressed in TLSs and CD8 + T-cells. Patients were stratified into the low- and high-T-C score groups. Differences in survival, pathway enrichment, mutation status, immune cell infiltration, expression of immune checkpoint-associated genes, tumor stemness, and response to antitumor therapy were compared through computer simulation methods. RESULTS Overall survival differed significantly between the training and validation cohorts' low- and high-T-C score groups. The low-T-C score group correlated with lower tumor mutation burden and lower levels of tumor stemness compared with the high-T-C score group. Patients with lower T-C scores exhibited advantages in immunotherapeutic responses and might be more sensitive to the chemotherapeutic regimen and multi-kinase inhibitors. CONCLUSION The T-C score could serve as an effective model for predicting the survival and therapeutic responses of patients with PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiangnan Ai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tengfei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Huixing Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Changguo Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Caiguo Ouyang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhenyu Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
D'Alise AM, Leoni G, Cotugno G, Siani L, Vitale R, Ruzza V, Garzia I, Antonucci L, Micarelli E, Venafra V, Gogov S, Capone A, Runswick S, Martin‐Liberal J, Calvo E, Moreno V, Symeonides SN, Scarselli E, Bechter O. Phase I Trial of Viral Vector-Based Personalized Vaccination Elicits Robust Neoantigen-Specific Antitumor T-Cell Responses. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2412-2423. [PMID: 38506710 PMCID: PMC11145154 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-3940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Personalized vaccines targeting multiple neoantigens (nAgs) are a promising strategy for eliciting a diversified antitumor T-cell response to overcome tumor heterogeneity. NOUS-PEV is a vector-based personalized vaccine, expressing 60 nAgs and consists of priming with a nonhuman Great Ape Adenoviral vector (GAd20) followed by boosts with Modified Vaccinia Ankara. Here, we report data of a phase Ib trial of NOUS-PEV in combination with pembrolizumab in treatment-naïve patients with metastatic melanoma (NCT04990479). PATIENTS AND METHODS The feasibility of this approach was demonstrated by producing, releasing, and administering to 6 patients 11 of 12 vaccines within 8 weeks from biopsy collection to GAd20 administration. RESULTS The regimen was safe, with no treatment-related serious adverse events observed and mild vaccine-related reactions. Vaccine immunogenicity was demonstrated in all evaluable patients receiving the prime/boost regimen, with detection of robust neoantigen-specific immune responses to multiple neoantigens comprising both CD4 and CD8 T cells. Expansion and diversification of vaccine-induced T-cell receptor (TCR) clonotypes was observed in the posttreatment biopsies of patients with clinical response, providing evidence of tumor infiltration by vaccine-induced neoantigen-specific T cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate the ability of NOUS-PEV to amplify and broaden the repertoire of tumor-reactive T cells to empower a diverse, potent, and durable antitumor immune response. Finally, a gene signature indicative of the reduced presence of activated T cells together with very poor expression of the antigen-processing machinery genes has been identified in pretreatment biopsies as a potential biomarker of resistance to the treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Veronica Venafra
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata,” Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Emiliano Calvo
- START Madrid‐CIOCC, Centro Integral Oncológico Clara Campal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor Moreno
- START Madrid‐FJD, Hospital Fundacion Jimenez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stefan N. Symeonides
- Edinburgh Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Oliver Bechter
- Leuven Cancer Institute, Department of General Medical Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Liu M, Wei AC. Advances in Surgery and (Neo) Adjuvant Therapy in the Management of Pancreatic Cancer. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2024; 38:629-642. [PMID: 38429197 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2024.01.004] [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: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
A multimodality approach, which usually includes chemotherapy, surgery, and/or radiotherapy, is optimal for patients with localized pancreatic cancer. The timing and sequence of these interventions depend on anatomic resectability and the biological suitability of the tumor and the patient. Tumors with vascular involvement (ie, borderline resectable/locally advanced) require surgical reassessments after therapy and participation of surgeons familiar with advanced techniques. When indicated, venous reconstruction should be offered as standard of care because it has acceptable morbidity. Morbidity and mortality of pancreas surgery may be mitigated when surgery is performed at high-volume centers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Liu
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Alice C Wei
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wattenberg MM, Colby S, Garrido-Laguna I, Xue Y, Chang R, Delman D, Lee J, Affolter K, Mulvihill SJ, Beg MS, Wang-Gillam A, Wade JL, Guthrie KA, Chiorean EG, Ahmad SA, Lowy AM, Philip PA, Sohal DPS, Beatty GL. Intratumoral Cell Neighborhoods Coordinate Outcomes in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:1114-1129. [PMID: 38244727 PMCID: PMC11102852 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.01.013] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a highly lethal disease characterized by a spatially heterogeneous tumor microenvironment. Within the PDA microenvironment, cells organize into communities where cell fate is influenced by neighboring cells of diverse ontogeny and function. However, it remains unclear how cell neighborhoods in the tumor microenvironment evolve with treatment and impact clinical outcomes. METHODS Here, using automated chromogenic multiplex immunohistochemistry and unsupervised computational image analysis of human PDA tumors, we investigated cell neighborhoods in surgically resected tumors from patients with chemotherapy-naïve PDA (n = 59) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy-treated PDA (n = 57). Single cells were defined by lineage markers (CD3, CD8, Foxp3, CD68, CK19), proliferation (Ki67), and neighboring cells. RESULTS Distinct intratumoral immune and tumor cell subsets were defined by neighboring cells. Higher content of stromal-associated macrophages was seen in chemotherapy-naïve tumors from long-term survivors (overall survival >3 years) compared with short-term survivors (overall survival <1 year), whereas immune-excluded tumor cells were higher in short-term survivors. Chemotherapy-treated vs -naïve tumors showed lower content of tumor-associated T cells and macrophages but similar densities of stromal-associated immune cells. However, proliferating tumor cell subsets with immune-rich neighborhoods were higher in chemotherapy-treated tumors. In a blinded analysis of tumors from patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a composite index comprising lower quantities of immune-excluded tumor cells and higher spatially distinct immune cell subsets was associated with prolonged survival. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data provide new insights into discrete cell communities in PDA and show their clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max M Wattenberg
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah Colby
- SWOG Statistics and Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ignacio Garrido-Laguna
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Yuqing Xue
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Renee Chang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Devora Delman
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jesse Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kajsa Affolter
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Sean J Mulvihill
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | | | | | - Katherine A Guthrie
- SWOG Statistics and Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - E Gabriela Chiorean
- University of Washington, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Andrew M Lowy
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Philip Agop Philip
- Henry Ford Health, Wayne State University, Oncology and Pharmacology, Detroit, Michigan
| | | | - Gregory L Beatty
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Singh G, Kutcher D, Lally R, Rai V. Targeting Neoantigens in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2101. [PMID: 38893220 PMCID: PMC11171042 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112101] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic cancer and is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States after lung and colon cancer. PDAC is estimated to be the second leading cause of cancer-related death by 2030. The diagnosis at a late stage is the underlying cause for higher mortality and poor prognosis after surgery. Treatment resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy results in recurrence after surgery and poor prognosis. Neoantigen burden and CD8+ T-cell infiltration are associated with clinical outcomes in PDAC and paucity of neoantigen-reactive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes may be the underlying cause for treatment resistance for immunotherapy. This suggests a need to identify additional neoantigens and therapies targeting these neoantigens to improve clinical outcomes in PDAC. In this review, we focus on describing the pathophysiology, current treatment strategies, and treatment resistance in PDAC followed by the need to target neoantigens in PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vikrant Rai
- Department of Translational Research, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA; (G.S.); (D.K.); (R.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Smith H, Arbe-Barnes E, Shah EA, Sivakumar S. Manipulating regulatory T cells: is it the key to unlocking effective immunotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1406250. [PMID: 38873607 PMCID: PMC11170104 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1406250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The five-year survival rates for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have scarcely improved over the last half-century. It is inherently resistant to FDA-approved immunotherapies, which have transformed the outlook for patients with other advanced solid tumours. Accumulating evidence relates this resistance to its hallmark immunosuppressive milieu, which instils progressive dysfunction among tumour-infiltrating effector T cells. This milieu is established at the inception of neoplasia by immunosuppressive cellular populations, including regulatory T cells (Tregs), which accumulate in parallel with the progression to malignant PDAC. Thus, the therapeutic manipulation of Tregs has captured significant scientific and commercial attention, bolstered by the discovery that an abundance of tumour-infiltrating Tregs correlates with a poor prognosis in PDAC patients. Herein, we propose a mechanism for the resistance of PDAC to anti-PD-1 and CTLA-4 immunotherapies and re-assess the rationale for pursuing Treg-targeted therapies in light of recent studies that profiled the immune landscape of patient-derived tumour samples. We evaluate strategies that are emerging to limit Treg-mediated immunosuppression for the treatment of PDAC, and signpost early-stage trials that provide preliminary evidence of clinical activity. In this context, we find a compelling argument for investment in the ongoing development of Treg-targeted immunotherapies for PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Smith
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Edward Arbe-Barnes
- Institute of Immunology and Transplantation, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Enas Abu Shah
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Shivan Sivakumar
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Birmingham Medical School, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Cancer Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Lang F, Sorn P, Suchan M, Henrich A, Albrecht C, Köhl N, Beicht A, Riesgo-Ferreiro P, Holtsträter C, Schrörs B, Weber D, Löwer M, Sahin U, Ibn-Salem J. Prediction of tumor-specific splicing from somatic mutations as a source of neoantigen candidates. BIOINFORMATICS ADVANCES 2024; 4:vbae080. [PMID: 38863673 PMCID: PMC11165244 DOI: 10.1093/bioadv/vbae080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Motivation Neoantigens are promising targets for cancer immunotherapies and might arise from alternative splicing. However, detecting tumor-specific splicing is challenging because many non-canonical splice junctions identified in tumors also appear in healthy tissues. To increase tumor-specificity, we focused on splicing caused by somatic mutations as a source for neoantigen candidates in individual patients. Results We developed the tool splice2neo with multiple functionalities to integrate predicted splice effects from somatic mutations with splice junctions detected in tumor RNA-seq and to annotate the resulting transcript and peptide sequences. Additionally, we provide the tool EasyQuant for targeted RNA-seq read mapping to candidate splice junctions. Using a stringent detection rule, we predicted 1.7 splice junctions per patient as splice targets with a false discovery rate below 5% in a melanoma cohort. We confirmed tumor-specificity using independent, healthy tissue samples. Furthermore, using tumor-derived RNA, we confirmed individual exon-skipping events experimentally. Most target splice junctions encoded neoepitope candidates with predicted major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I or MHC-II binding. Compared to neoepitope candidates from non-synonymous point mutations, the splicing-derived MHC-I neoepitope candidates had lower self-similarity to corresponding wild-type peptides. In conclusion, we demonstrate that identifying mutation-derived, tumor-specific splice junctions can lead to additional neoantigen candidates to expand the target repertoire for cancer immunotherapies. Availability and implementation The R package splice2neo and the python package EasyQuant are available at https://github.com/TRON-Bioinformatics/splice2neo and https://github.com/TRON-Bioinformatics/easyquant, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Lang
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Patrick Sorn
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Martin Suchan
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Alina Henrich
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Christian Albrecht
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Nina Köhl
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Aline Beicht
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Pablo Riesgo-Ferreiro
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Christoph Holtsträter
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Barbara Schrörs
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - David Weber
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Martin Löwer
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Ugur Sahin
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
- BioNTech SE, Mainz 55131, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Jonas Ibn-Salem
- TRON—Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz 55131, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhou S, Wang Z, Zhao D, Fu Y, Zhang S, Wang Z, Zou X. HHLA2 deficiency inhibits pancreatic cancer progression and THP-1 macrophage M2 polarization via EGFR/MAPK/ERK and mTOR/AKT pathway. World J Surg Oncol 2024; 22:133. [PMID: 38762741 PMCID: PMC11102221 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-024-03409-2] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human endogenous retrovirus subfamily H long terminal repeat associating protein 2, (HHLA2), a member of B7 family, exhibits heightened expression in various malignant tumors. However, the exact functions of HHLA2 in pancreatic cancer (PC) remain incompletely elucidated. METHODS We initially conducted an analysis of the B7 family members' expression pattern in pancreatic tumor samples and adjacent normal tissues using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Subsequently, immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR and western blot methods were used to assess HHLA2 expression levels in PC tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, after silencing HHLA2 in PC cell lines, cell migration and proliferation of PC cells were detected by wound healing and CCK-8 assays, and cell invasion of PC cells was detected by transwell assays. We also investigated the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and levels of EGFR, MEK, ERK1/2, mTOR and AKT via western blot analysis. Finally, the correlation between HHLA2 expression and immune infiltration was further explored. RESULTS Silencing of HHLA2 resulted in the inhibition of PC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, potentially through the suppression of the EGFR/MAPK/ERK and mTOR/AKT signaling pathway. Additionally, silencing HHLA2 led to the inhibition of M2-type polarization of tumor associated macrophages (TAMs). CONCLUSION The knockdown of HHLA2 was observed to inhibit the migration and invasion of PC cells through the regulation of the EMT process and EGFR/MAPK/ERK and mTOR/AKT pathway. Furthermore, silencing HHLA2 was found to modulate M2 polarization of TAMs. These finding suggest that HHLA2 could be a promising therapeutic target for Pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Jiangsu University, No.321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Zhangding Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Dian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Jiangsu University, No.321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No.99, Huaihai West Road, Xuzhou, 221000, China.
| | - Xiaoping Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Jiangsu University, No.321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhang XY, Hong LL, Ling ZQ. MUC16: clinical targets with great potential. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:101. [PMID: 38758220 PMCID: PMC11101557 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01365-5] [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: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Mucin 16 (MUC16) is a membrane-bound mucin that is abnormally expressed or mutated in a variety of diseases, especially tumors, while being expressed in normal body epithelium. MUC16 and its extracellular components are often important cancer-related biomarkers. Abnormal expression of MUC16 promotes tumor progression through mesenchymal protein, PI3K/AKT pathway, JAK2/STAT3 pathway, ERK/FBW7/c-Myc, and other mechanisms, and plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors. In addition, MUC16 also helps tumor immune escape by inhibiting T cells and NK cells. Many drugs and trials targeting MUC16 have been developed, and MUC16 may be a new direction for future treatments. In this paper, the mechanism of action of MUC16 in the development of cancer, especially in the immune escape of tumor, is introduced in detail, indicating the potential of MUC16 in clinical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang, Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Lian-Lian Hong
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Ling
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China.
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang, Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Musiu C, Lupo F, Agostini A, Lionetto G, Bevere M, Paiella S, Carbone C, Corbo V, Ugel S, De Sanctis F. Cellular collusion: cracking the code of immunosuppression and chemo resistance in PDAC. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341079. [PMID: 38817612 PMCID: PMC11137177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the efforts, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still highly lethal. Therapeutic challenges reside in late diagnosis and establishment of peculiar tumor microenvironment (TME) supporting tumor outgrowth. This stromal landscape is highly heterogeneous between patients and even in the same patient. The organization of functional sub-TME with different cellular compositions provides evolutive advantages and sustains therapeutic resistance. Tumor progressively establishes a TME that can suit its own needs, including proliferation, stemness and invasion. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, the main non-neoplastic cellular TME components, follow soluble factors-mediated neoplastic instructions and synergize to promote chemoresistance and immune surveillance destruction. Unveiling heterotypic stromal-neoplastic interactions is thus pivotal to breaking this synergism and promoting the reprogramming of the TME toward an anti-tumor milieu, improving thus the efficacy of conventional and immune-based therapies. We underscore recent advances in the characterization of immune and fibroblast stromal components supporting or dampening pancreatic cancer progression, as well as novel multi-omic technologies improving the current knowledge of PDAC biology. Finally, we put into context how the clinic will translate the acquired knowledge to design new-generation clinical trials with the final aim of improving the outcome of PDAC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Musiu
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Lupo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Agostini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lionetto
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Bevere
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Paiella
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Ugel
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Liu Y, Niu R, Zhang X, Zhang B, Chen X, Guo J, Song S, Wang Y, Zhang H, Zhao Y. Metal-Organic Framework-Based Nanovaccine for Relieving Immunosuppressive Tumors via Hindering Efferocytosis of Macrophages and Promoting Pyroptosis and Cuproptosis of Cancer Cells. ACS NANO 2024; 18:12386-12400. [PMID: 38699808 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Current cancer vaccines face challenges due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and their limited ability to produce an effective immune response. To address the above limitations, we develop a 3-(2-spiroadamantyl)-4-methoxy-4-(3-phosphoryloxy)-phenyl-1,2-dioxetane (alkaline phosphatase substrate) and XMD8-92 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 inhibitor)-codelivered copper-tetrahydroxybenzoquinone (Cu-THBQ/AX) nanosized metal-organic framework to in situ-generate therapeutic vaccination. Once inside the early endosome, the alkaline phosphatase overexpressed in the tumor cells' membrane activates the in situ type I photodynamic effect of Cu-THBQ/AX for generating •O2-, and the Cu-THBQ/AX catalyzes O2 and H2O2 to •O2- and •OH via semiquinone radical catalysis and Fenton-like reactions. This surge of ROS in early endosomes triggers caspase-3-mediated proinflammatory pyroptosis via activating phospholipase C. Meanwhile, Cu-THBQ/AX can also induce the oligomerization of dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase to trigger tumor cell cuproptosis. The production of •OH could also trigger the release of XMD8-92 for effectively inhibiting the efferocytosis of macrophages to convert immunosuppressive apoptosis of cancer cells into proinflammatory secondary necrosis. The simultaneous induction of pyroptosis, cuproptosis, and secondary necrosis effectively converts the tumor microenvironment from "cold" to "hot" conditions, making it an effective antigen pool. This transformation successfully activates the antitumor immune response, inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Rui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, P. R. China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Bin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, P. R. China
| | - Xiaokai Chen
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Jingjing Guo
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Shuyan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, P. R. China
| | - Yinghui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, P. R. China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, P. R. China
| | - Yanli Zhao
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhong P, Nakata K, Oyama K, Higashijima N, Sagara A, Date S, Luo H, Hayashi M, Kubo A, Wu C, He S, Yamamoto T, Koikawa K, Iwamoto C, Abe T, Ikenaga N, Ohuchida K, Morisaki T, Oda Y, Kuba K, Nakamura M. Blockade of histamine receptor H1 augments immune checkpoint therapy by enhancing MHC-I expression in pancreatic cancer cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:138. [PMID: 38715057 PMCID: PMC11077718 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03060-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy has proven to be extremely effective at managing certain cancers, its efficacy in treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been limited. Therefore, enhancing the effect of ICB could improve the prognosis of PDAC. In this study, we focused on the histamine receptor H1 (HRH1) and investigated its impact on ICB therapy for PDAC. METHODS We assessed HRH1 expression in pancreatic cancer cell (PCC) specimens from PDAC patients through public data analysis and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The impact of HRH1 in PCCs was evaluated using HRH1 antagonists and small hairpin RNA (shRNA). Techniques including Western blot, flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and microarray analyses were performed to identify the relationships between HRH1 and major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) expression in cancer cells. We combined HRH1 antagonism or knockdown with anti-programmed death receptor 1 (αPD-1) therapy in orthotopic models, employing IHC, immunofluorescence, and hematoxylin and eosin staining for assessment. RESULTS HRH1 expression in cancer cells was negatively correlated with HLA-ABC expression, CD8+ T cells, and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Our findings indicate that HRH1 blockade upregulates MHC-I expression in PCCs via cholesterol biosynthesis signaling. In the orthotopic model, the combined inhibition of HRH1 and αPD-1 blockade enhanced cytotoxic CD8+ T cell penetration and efficacy, overcoming resistance to ICB therapy. CONCLUSIONS HRH1 plays an immunosuppressive role in cancer cells. Consequently, HRH1 intervention may be a promising method to amplify the responsiveness of PDAC to immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- PingShan Zhong
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kohei Nakata
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
- Department of Diagnostics and Therapeutics Endoscopy, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
- Department of Overseas Exchange Center, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
| | - Koki Oyama
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Higashijima
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Akiko Sagara
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Satomi Date
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - HaiZhen Luo
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masataka Hayashi
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Akihiro Kubo
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - ChenYi Wu
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Shan He
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takeo Yamamoto
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Koikawa
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Chika Iwamoto
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Toshiya Abe
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Naoki Ikenaga
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kenoki Ohuchida
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takashi Morisaki
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy, Fukuoka General Cancer Clinic, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
| | - Yoshinao Oda
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Keiji Kuba
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masafumi Nakamura
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Febriyanto T, Muhammad F, Wijaya W, Oey O, Simadibrata DM. Antibiotic use reduces the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with urothelial carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol Oncol 2024; 42:160.e11-160.e23. [PMID: 38101990 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2023.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Antibiotics have been suggested to diminish the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) by alterations of the gut microbiota. OBJECTIVE To perform a meta-analysis summarizing the effect of antibiotics on the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of urothelial cancer (UC) patients receiving ICI. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify studies published up to July 14, 2023. Studies reporting the associations between antibiotics use and OS and PFS in UC patients treated with ICI were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The random-effect model was used to pool the Hazard Ratios (HRs) for OS and PFS with 95% confidence interval (95%CI). The ROBINS-I was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies, while the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) framework was used to inform the quality of evidence. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Thirteen nonrandomized studies involving a total of 5,095 ICI-treated UC patients were included in this review, of which 1434 (28%) received antibiotics. Overall, compared to patients who did not receive antibiotics, the pooled HRs for OS and PFS in those who received antibiotics were 1.45 [95% CI 1.25-1.68] and 1.40 [95% CI 1.05-1.87], respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that the types of ICI and timing of antibiotic initiation did not influence the effect of antibiotics on OS and PFS in UC patients (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Antibiotic use significantly reduced OS and PFS in UC patients receiving ICI. While antibiotics remain crucial for the treatment of infections in UC patients, antibiotics should be prescribed cautiously in UC patients receiving ICI. PATIENT SUMMARY Antibiotic use is associated with worsened survival in UC patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toni Febriyanto
- Department of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine, Mediway Clinic, Tanjung Balai Karimun, Indonesia
| | - Fajar Muhammad
- Department of Emergency, Kuala Kurun Regional Hospital, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
| | - Wynne Wijaya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Oliver Oey
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Daniel Martin Simadibrata
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Stone ML, Lee J, Lee JW, Coho H, Tariveranmoshabad M, Wattenberg MM, Choi H, Herrera VM, Xue Y, Choi-Bose S, Zingone SK, Patel D, Markowitz K, Delman D, Balachandran VP, Beatty GL. Hepatocytes coordinate immune evasion in cancer via release of serum amyloid A proteins. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:755-763. [PMID: 38641718 PMCID: PMC11186515 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01820-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
T cell infiltration into tumors is a favorable prognostic feature, but most solid tumors lack productive T cell responses. Mechanisms that coordinate T cell exclusion are incompletely understood. Here we identify hepatocyte activation via interleukin-6/STAT3 and secretion of serum amyloid A (SAA) proteins 1 and 2 as important regulators of T cell surveillance of extrahepatic tumors. Loss of STAT3 in hepatocytes or SAA remodeled the tumor microenvironment with infiltration by CD8+ T cells, while interleukin-6 overexpression in hepatocytes and SAA signaling via Toll-like receptor 2 reduced the number of intratumoral dendritic cells and, in doing so, inhibited T cell tumor infiltration. Genetic ablation of SAA enhanced survival after tumor resection in a T cell-dependent manner. Likewise, in individuals with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, long-term survivors after surgery demonstrated lower serum SAA levels than short-term survivors. Taken together, these data define a fundamental link between liver and tumor immunobiology wherein hepatocytes govern productive T cell surveillance in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meredith L Stone
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jesse Lee
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jae W Lee
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heather Coho
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mito Tariveranmoshabad
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Max M Wattenberg
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hana Choi
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Veronica M Herrera
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yuqing Xue
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shaanti Choi-Bose
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sofia K Zingone
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dhruv Patel
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kelly Markowitz
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Devora Delman
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vinod P Balachandran
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gregory L Beatty
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Emilius L, Bremm F, Binder AK, Schaft N, Dörrie J. Tumor Antigens beyond the Human Exome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4673. [PMID: 38731892 PMCID: PMC11083240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094673] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
With the advent of immunotherapeutics, a new era in the combat against cancer has begun. Particularly promising are neo-epitope-targeted therapies as the expression of neo-antigens is tumor-specific. In turn, this allows the selective targeting and killing of cancer cells whilst healthy cells remain largely unaffected. So far, many advances have been made in the development of treatment options which are tailored to the individual neo-epitope repertoire. The next big step is the achievement of efficacious "off-the-shelf" immunotherapies. For this, shared neo-epitopes propose an optimal target. Given the tremendous potential, a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms which lead to the formation of neo-antigens is of fundamental importance. Here, we review the various processes which result in the formation of neo-epitopes. Broadly, the origin of neo-epitopes can be categorized into three groups: canonical, noncanonical, and viral neo-epitopes. For the canonical neo-antigens that arise in direct consequence of somatic mutations, we summarize past and recent findings. Beyond that, our main focus is put on the discussion of noncanonical and viral neo-epitopes as we believe that targeting those provides an encouraging perspective to shape the future of cancer immunotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisabeth Emilius
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Franziska Bremm
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Amanda Katharina Binder
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.E.); (F.B.); (A.K.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Gaebler D, Hachey SJ, Hughes CCW. Microphysiological systems as models for immunologically 'cold' tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1389012. [PMID: 38711620 PMCID: PMC11070549 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1389012] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a diverse milieu of cells including cancerous and non-cancerous cells such as fibroblasts, pericytes, endothelial cells and immune cells. The intricate cellular interactions within the TME hold a central role in shaping the dynamics of cancer progression, influencing pivotal aspects such as tumor initiation, growth, invasion, response to therapeutic interventions, and the emergence of drug resistance. In immunologically 'cold' tumors, the TME is marked by a scarcity of infiltrating immune cells, limited antigen presentation in the absence of potent immune-stimulating signals, and an abundance of immunosuppressive factors. While strategies targeting the TME as a therapeutic avenue in 'cold' tumors have emerged, there is a pressing need for novel approaches that faithfully replicate the complex cellular and non-cellular interactions in order to develop targeted therapies that can effectively stimulate immune responses and improve therapeutic outcomes in patients. Microfluidic devices offer distinct advantages over traditional in vitro 3D co-culture models and in vivo animal models, as they better recapitulate key characteristics of the TME and allow for precise, controlled insights into the dynamic interplay between various immune, stromal and cancerous cell types at any timepoint. This review aims to underscore the pivotal role of microfluidic systems in advancing our understanding of the TME and presents current microfluidic model systems that aim to dissect tumor-stromal, tumor-immune and immune-stromal cellular interactions in various 'cold' tumors. Understanding the intricacies of the TME in 'cold' tumors is crucial for devising effective targeted therapies to reinvigorate immune responses and overcome the challenges of current immunotherapy approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Gaebler
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Stephanie J. Hachey
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Christopher C. W. Hughes
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Imperial R, Mosalem O, Majeed U, Tran NH, Borad MJ, Babiker H. Second-Line Treatment of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Shedding Light on New Opportunities and Key Talking Points from Clinical Trials. Clin Exp Gastroenterol 2024; 17:121-134. [PMID: 38650920 PMCID: PMC11034511 DOI: 10.2147/ceg.s390655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite improvements in overall cancer mortality, deaths related to pancreatic cancer continue to rise. Following first-line treatment, second-line options are significantly limited. Classically, first-line treatment consisted of either gemcitabine or 5-fluorouracil based systemic chemotherapy. Upon progression of disease or recurrence, subsequent second-line treatment is still gemcitabine or 5-fluorouracil based chemotherapy, depending on what was used in the first line and the timing of progression or recurrence. A better understanding of the molecular underpinnings of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has led to new treatment strategies including specifically targeting the desmoplastic stroma, cytokine signaling and actionable mutations. Furthermore, efforts are also directed to enhance the immunogenicity profile of PDAC's well-established immunologically "cold" tumor microenvironment. More recently, the outstanding response rates of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells in hematologic malignancies, have led to clinical trials to evaluate the treatment modality in PDAC. In this review, we summarize recently presented clinical trials for metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma with novel treatment approaches in the second line and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin Imperial
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Osama Mosalem
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Umair Majeed
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | - Mitesh J Borad
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Hani Babiker
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhao Z, Liu M, Lin Z, Zhu M, Lv L, Zhu X, Fan R, Al-Danakh A, He H, Tan G. The mechanism of USP43 in the development of tumor: a literature review. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:6613-6626. [PMID: 38613804 PMCID: PMC11042928 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205731] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitination of the proteins is crucial for governing protein degradation and regulating fundamental cellular processes. Deubiquitinases (DUBs) have emerged as significant regulators of multiple pathways associated with cancer and other diseases, owing to their capacity to remove ubiquitin from target substrates and modulate signaling. Consequently, they represent potential therapeutic targets for cancer and other life-threatening conditions. USP43 belongs to the DUBs family involved in cancer development and progression. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing scientific evidence implicating USP43 in cancer development. Additionally, it will investigate potential small-molecule inhibitors that target DUBs that may have the capability to function as anti-cancer medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Meichen Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Zhikun Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Drugs in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Mengru Zhu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Linlin Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xinqing Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Rui Fan
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, National, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Abdullah Al-Danakh
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Hui He
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Guang Tan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Drugs in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Dalian 116000, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Shao W, Yao Y, Yang L, Li X, Ge T, Zheng Y, Zhu Q, Ge S, Gu X, Jia R, Song X, Zhuang A. Novel insights into TCR-T cell therapy in solid neoplasms: optimizing adoptive immunotherapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:37. [PMID: 38570883 PMCID: PMC10988985 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00504-8] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy in the T cell landscape exhibits efficacy in cancer treatment. Over the past few decades, genetically modified T cells, particularly chimeric antigen receptor T cells, have enabled remarkable strides in the treatment of hematological malignancies. Besides, extensive exploration of multiple antigens for the treatment of solid tumors has led to clinical interest in the potential of T cells expressing the engineered T cell receptor (TCR). TCR-T cells possess the capacity to recognize intracellular antigen families and maintain the intrinsic properties of TCRs in terms of affinity to target epitopes and signal transduction. Recent research has provided critical insight into their capability and therapeutic targets for multiple refractory solid tumors, but also exposes some challenges for durable efficacy. In this review, we describe the screening and identification of available tumor antigens, and the acquisition and optimization of TCRs for TCR-T cell therapy. Furthermore, we summarize the complete flow from laboratory to clinical applications of TCR-T cells. Last, we emerge future prospects for improving therapeutic efficacy in cancer world with combination therapies or TCR-T derived products. In conclusion, this review depicts our current understanding of TCR-T cell therapy in solid neoplasms, and provides new perspectives for expanding its clinical applications and improving therapeutic efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weihuan Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiran Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Ludi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongxin Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyi Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xin Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ai Zhuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhi Zao Ju Road, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Li L, Chandra V, McAllister F. Tumor-resident microbes: the new kids on the microenvironment block. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:347-355. [PMID: 38388213 PMCID: PMC11006566 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-resident microbes (TRM) are an integral component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). TRM can influence tumor growth, distant dissemination, and response to therapies by interfering with molecular pathways in tumor cells as well as with other components of the TME. Novel technologies are improving the identification and visualization of cell type-specific microbes in the TME. The mechanisms that mediate the role of TRM at the primary tumors and metastatic sites are being elucidated. This knowledge is providing novel perspectives for targeting microbes or using microbial interventions for cancer interception or therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Li
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vidhi Chandra
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Florencia McAllister
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Minegishi Y, Haga Y, Ueda K. Emerging potential of immunopeptidomics by mass spectrometry in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:1048-1059. [PMID: 38382459 PMCID: PMC11007014 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
With significant advances in analytical technologies, research in the field of cancer immunotherapy, such as adoptive T cell therapy, cancer vaccine, and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), is currently gaining tremendous momentum. Since the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is recognized only by a minority of patients, more potent tumor-specific antigens (TSAs, also known as neoantigens) and predictive markers for treatment response are of great interest. In cancer immunity, immunopeptides, presented by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I, play a role as initiating mediators of immunogenicity. The latest advancement in the interdisciplinary multiomics approach has rapidly enlightened us about the identity of the "dark matter" of cancer and the associated immunopeptides. In this field, mass spectrometry (MS) is a viable option to select because of the naturally processed and actually presented TSA candidates in order to grasp the whole picture of the immunopeptidome. In the past few years the search space has been enlarged by the multiomics approach, the sensitivity of mass spectrometers has been improved, and deep/machine-learning-supported peptide search algorithms have taken immunopeptidomics to the next level. In this review, along with the introduction of key technical advancements in immunopeptidomics, the potential and further directions of immunopeptidomics will be reviewed from the perspective of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuriko Minegishi
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshimi Haga
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Koji Ueda
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine CenterJapanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Chen M, Zhang X, Ming Z, Lingyu, Feng X, Han Z, An HX. Characterizing and forecasting neoantigens-resulting from MUC mutations in COAD. J Transl Med 2024; 22:315. [PMID: 38539235 PMCID: PMC10967086 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05103-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment for colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) faces challenges in terms of immunotherapy effectiveness due to multiple factors. Because of the high tumor specificity and immunogenicity, neoantigen has been considered a pivotal target for cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, this study aims to identify and predict the potential tumor antigens of MUC somatic mutations (MUCmut) in COAD. METHODS Three databases of TCGA, TIMER2.0, and cBioPortal were used for a detailed evaluation of the association between MUCmut and multi-factors like tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), prognosis, and the tumor microenvironment within the context of total 2242 COAD patients. Next, TSNAdb and the differential agretopicity index (DAI) were utilized to predict high-confidence neopeptides for MUCmut based on 531 COAD patients' genomic information. DAI was calculated by subtraction of its predicted HLA binding affinity of the MUCmut peptide from the corresponding wild-type peptide. RESULTS The top six mutation frequencies (14 to 2.9%) were from MUC16, MUC17, MUC5B, MUC2, MUC4 and MUC6. COAD patients with MUC16 and MUC4 mutations had longer DFS and PFS. However, patients with MUC13 and MUC20 mutations had shorter OS. Patients with the mutation of MUC16, MUC5B, MUC2, MUC4, and MUC6 exhibited higher TMB and MSI. Moreover, these mutations from the MUC family were associated with the infiltration of diverse lymphocyte cells and the expression of immune checkpoint genes. Through TSNAdb 1.0/NetMHCpan v2.8, 452 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) of MUCmut peptides were identified. Moreover, through TSNAdb2.0/NetMHCpan v4.0, 57 SNVs, 1 Q-frame shift (TS), and 157 short insertions/deletions (INDELs) of MUCmut were identified. Finally, 10 high-confidence neopeptides of MUCmut were predicted by DAI. CONCLUSIONS Together, our findings establish the immunogenicity and therapeutic potential of mutant MUC family-derived neoantigens. Through combining the tools of TSNAdb and DAI, a group of novel MUCmut neoantigens were identified as potential targets for immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Clinical Central Research Core, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- The Center Laboratory, Shanghai Medical College, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen Affiliated) of Fudan University, Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zihe Ming
- Cancer Center and Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, School of Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lingyu
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaorong Feng
- Department of Chemistry and Key Laboratory for Preparation and Application of Ordered Structural Materials of Guangdong Province, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou University, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenguo Han
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Han-Xiang An
- Clinical Central Research Core, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
- The Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|