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Wang K, Wang L, Wang Y, Xiao L, Wei J, Hu Y, Wang D, Huang H. Reprogramming natural killer cells for cancer therapy. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2835-2855. [PMID: 38273655 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.027] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The last decade has seen rapid development in the field of cellular immunotherapy, particularly in regard to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells. However, challenges, such as severe treatment-related toxicities and inconsistent quality of autologous products, have hindered the broader use of CAR-T cell therapy, highlighting the need to explore alternative immune cells for cancer targeting. In this regard, natural killer (NK) cells have been extensively studied in cellular immunotherapy and were found to exert cytotoxic effects without being restricted by human leukocyte antigen and have a lower risk of causing graft-versus-host disease; making them favorable for the development of readily available "off-the-shelf" products. Clinical trials utilizing unedited NK cells or reprogrammed NK cells have shown early signs of their effectiveness against tumors. However, limitations, including limited in vivo persistence and expansion potential, remained. To enhance the antitumor function of NK cells, advanced gene-editing technologies and combination approaches have been explored. In this review, we summarize current clinical trials of antitumor NK cell therapy, provide an overview of innovative strategies for reprogramming NK cells, which include improvements in persistence, cytotoxicity, trafficking and the ability to counteract the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and also discuss some potential combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Linqin Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yiyun Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jieping Wei
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yongxian Hu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Dongrui Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - He Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity Therapy, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Ma S, Chen Y, Zhou Z, Ma A. Effect of Wei Qi Booster on immune and anti-oxidative function in aged mice. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1446770. [PMID: 39113720 PMCID: PMC11303205 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1446770] [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: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This research was conducted to examine the impact of Wei Qi Booster (WQB) on immune parameters and anti-oxidative function in aged mice. Fifty aged mice were randomly assigned to five different groups. Group A was designated as the control group. Mice in Group B were receiving Levamisole at 10 mg/kg body weight. Each mouse in groups C, D and E received 0.1, 1, and 2% WQB, respectively. Another ten young mice, designated as group F, were fed regularly. The mice were fed according to the above methods for 28 days. Results showed that relative to the control group, the body weight and immune organs indexes experienced a substantial rise in the group with 1% WQB. In addition, 1% WQB could improve the activity of SOD and reduce the MDA levels. Expressions of CD4 and sIgA increased while CD8 decreased in the jejunum of aged mice treated with WQB. IL2 and IFN-γ levels increased in the 1% WQB group, showing no notable difference compared to the young mice group. The results demonstrated that WQB can elevate immune levels and enhance anti-oxidative functions in aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Ma
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, Heibei, China
| | - Yuming Chen
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, Heibei, China
| | - Zhilong Zhou
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, Heibei, China
| | - Aituan Ma
- College of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
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Su T, Shen H, He M, Yang S, Gong X, Huang C, Guo L, Wang H, Feng S, Mi T, Zhao M, Liu Q, Huo F, Zhu JK, Zhu J, Li H, Liu H. Quercetin promotes the proportion and maturation of NK cells by binding to MYH9 and improves cognitive functions in aged mice. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:29. [PMID: 38730291 PMCID: PMC11084035 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-024-00436-1] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quercetin is a flavonol compound widely distributed in plants that possesses diverse biological properties, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective and senescent cell-clearing activities. It has been shown to effectively alleviate neurodegenerative diseases and enhance cognitive functions in various models. The immune system has been implicated in the regulation of brain function and cognitive abilities. However, it remains unclear whether quercetin enhances cognitive functions by interacting with the immune system. RESULTS In this study, middle-aged female mice were administered quercetin via tail vein injection. Quercetin increased the proportion of NK cells, without affecting T or B cells, and improved cognitive performance. Depletion of NK cells significantly reduces cognitive ability in mice. RNA-seq analysis revealed that quercetin modulated the RNA profile of hippocampal tissues in aging animals towards a more youthful state. In vitro, quercetin significantly inhibited the differentiation of Lin-CD117+ hematopoietic stem cells into NK cells. Furthermore, quercetin promoted the proportion and maturation of NK cells by binding to the MYH9 protein. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our findings suggest that quercetin promotes the proportion and maturation of NK cells by binding to the MYH9 protein, thereby improving cognitive performance in middle-aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Su
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Haitao Shen
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Mengyuan He
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Xue Gong
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Ce Huang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Liuling Guo
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Shengyu Feng
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Taotao Mi
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Meili Zhao
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Fengjiao Huo
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Jian-Kang Zhu
- Institute of Advanced Biotechnology and School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jianbo Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China.
| | - Hongbin Li
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China.
| | - Hailiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China.
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cardiology and Medical Innovation Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200123, China.
- Institute of Advanced Biotechnology and School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Shi M, Ma J, Jin S, Wang T, Sui Y, Chen L. Effects of saponins Rb 1 and Re in American ginseng combined intervention on immune system of aging model. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1392868. [PMID: 38606290 PMCID: PMC11007219 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1392868] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for the development of many pathological processes, such as reduced immunity, cancer, cardiovascular diseases or neurodegenerative diseases, while age-related chronic diseases are the most common causes of death. This paper studies the effects of American ginseng saponin Rb1 and Re alone and combined intervention on the immune system of aging mouse models, by using 30 mg/kg Rb1, 15 mg/kg Re, and Rb1 + Re (30 mg/kg Rb1 and 15 mg/kg Re (co-intervention) was used to intervene in the aging model, and immune indicators such as thymus index, spleen index, interleukin and interferon were detected to evaluate the impact of Rb1 and Re on immune function. The results show that Rb1 and Re intervention alone can increase the spleen index by 7%-12% and the thymus index by 12%-19% in the aging model. After Rb1 or Re alone intervened, the apoptotic cells in the thymus were slightly reduced, and the proportion of apoptotic cells was reduced. The combination of Rb1 + Re can promote the thymus index and spleen index to increase by 23.40% and 25.5% respectively, which is more advantageous than Rb1 or Re alone. In addition, Rb1 and Re intervention can reduce the level of interferon INF to a level comparable to that of young mice. Rb1 + Re can not only reduce the INF content, but also reduce the TNF content. The above results show that American ginseng saponin Rb1 and Re can delay the decline of the immune system in the aging model, and the combined intervention of the two is significantly better than individual intervention in the recovery of the immune system. This paper can provide theoretical basis and data support for the development of American ginseng nutritional supplements and its application in aging groups products to improve immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Shi
- Jilin Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changchun, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Jilin Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changchun, China
| | - Shan Jin
- Jilin Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changchun, China
| | - Tienan Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuhan Sui
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, China
| | - Lina Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, China
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Chen H, Lee SJ, Li R, Sura A, Suen N, Dilip A, Pomogov Y, Vuppalapaty M, Suen TT, Lu C, Post Y, Li Y. BRAIDing receptors for cell-specific targeting. eLife 2024; 12:RP90221. [PMID: 38193894 PMCID: PMC10945505 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90221] [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: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic toxicity is a major challenge in the development of therapeutics. Consequently, cell-type-specific targeting is needed to improve on-target efficacy while reducing off-target toxicity. Here, we describe a cell-targeting system we have termed BRAID (BRidged Activation by Intra/intermolecular Division) whereby an active molecule is divided into two inactive or less active parts that are subsequently brought together via a so-called 'bridging receptor' on the target cell. This concept was validated using the WNT/β-catenin signaling system, demonstrating that a multivalent WNT agonist molecule divided into two inactive components assembled from different epitopes via the hepatocyte receptor βKlotho induces signaling specifically on hepatocytes. These data provide proof of concept for this cell-specific targeting strategy, and in principle, this may also allow activation of multiple signaling pathways where desirable. This approach has broad application potential for other receptor systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
| | | | - Ryan Li
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
| | - Asmiti Sura
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
| | | | | | - Yan Pomogov
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
| | | | | | | | - Yorick Post
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen IncSouth San FranciscoUnited States
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Zhang M, Lam KP, Xu S. Natural Killer Cell Engagers (NKCEs): a new frontier in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1207276. [PMID: 37638058 PMCID: PMC10450036 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1207276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are a type of innate lymphoid cells that play a crucial role in immunity by killing virally infected or tumor cells and secreting cytokines and chemokines. NK cell-mediated immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for cancer treatment due to its safety and effectiveness. NK cell engagers (NKCEs), such as BiKE (bispecific killer cell engager) or TriKE (trispecific killer cell engager), are a novel class of antibody-based therapeutics that exhibit several advantages over other cancer immunotherapies harnessing NK cells. By bridging NK and tumor cells, NKCEs activate NK cells and lead to tumor cell lysis. A growing number of NKCEs are currently undergoing development, with some already in clinical trials. However, there is a need for more comprehensive studies to determine how the molecular design of NKCEs affects their functionality and manufacturability, which are crucial for their development as off-the-shelf drugs for cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on NKCE development and discuss critical factors required for the production of effective NKCEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minchuan Zhang
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kong-Peng Lam
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shengli Xu
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Jin D, Jiang Y, Chang L, Wei J, Sun J. New therapeutic strategies based on biasing IL-2 mutants for cancers and autoimmune diseases. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:108935. [PMID: 35732097 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an immunomodulatory multifunctional cytokine. High-dose IL-2 was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the 1990s for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma and metastatic melanoma. However, the short half-life of IL-2 and its toxicity caused by high-dose IL-2 limit the clinical use of IL-2. Recently, the development of cell-type-selective engineered IL-2 products become a hot research filed, mainly because IL-2 stimulates both regulatory T cells (Treg) and effector T cells (Teff) in vivo. The selective effect of IL-2 on Treg and Teff can be improved by designing biased IL-2 mutants, which showed reduced toxicity while being more effective in stimulating anti-tumor effector immunity or ameliorating autoimmune diseases. In this review we summarize the biological properties of IL-2 mutants reported so far. The design process and principle of IL-2 mutants, IL-2 mutant antibody complexes and IL-2 fusion proteins were discussed, which provided research basis for the design and application of IL-2 mutants in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongfu Jin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina
| | - Yaxin Jiang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina
| | - Lu Chang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina
| | - Jing Wei
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina.
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina; Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PRChina.
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8
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Banerjee A, Li D, Guo Y, Mei Z, Lau C, Chen K, Westwick J, Klauda JB, Schrum A, Lazear ER, Krupnick AS. A reengineered common chain cytokine augments CD8+ T cell–dependent immunotherapy. JCI Insight 2022; 7:158889. [PMID: 35603788 PMCID: PMC9220948 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.158889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokine therapy is limited by undesirable off-target side effects as well as terminal differentiation and exhaustion of chronically stimulated T cells. Here, we describe the signaling properties of a potentially unique cytokine by design, where T cell surface binding and signaling are separated between 2 different families of receptors. This fusion protein cytokine, called OMCPmutIL-2, bound with high affinity to the cytotoxic lymphocyte-defining immunoreceptor NKG2D but signaled through the common γ chain cytokine receptor. In addition to precise activation of cytotoxic T cells due to redirected binding, OMCPmutIL-2 resulted in superior activation of both human and murine CD8+ T cells by improving their survival and memory cell generation and decreasing exhaustion. This functional improvement was the direct result of altered signal transduction based on the reorganization of surface membrane lipid rafts that led to Janus kinase-3–mediated phosphorylation of the T cell receptor rather than STAT/AKT signaling intermediates. This potentially novel signaling pathway increased CD8+ T cell response to low-affinity antigens, activated nuclear factor of activated T cells transcription factors, and promoted mitochondrial biogenesis. OMCPmutIL-2 thus outperformed other common γ chain cytokines as a catalyst for in vitro CD8+ T cell expansion and in vivo CD8+ T cell–based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Banerjee
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Dongge Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yizhan Guo
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhongcheng Mei
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Christine Lau
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kelly Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Jeffery B. Klauda
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Adam Schrum
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Surgery, and Biomedical, Biological and Chemical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric R. Lazear
- Courier Therapeutics, Houston, Texas, USA
- Valo Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander S. Krupnick
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Courier Therapeutics, Houston, Texas, USA
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Atallah-Yunes SA, Robertson MJ. Cytokine Based Immunotherapy for Cancer and Lymphoma: Biology, Challenges and Future Perspectives. Front Immunol 2022; 13:872010. [PMID: 35529882 PMCID: PMC9067561 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.872010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokines regulate both the innate and adaptive immune responses to cancer. Although antitumor activity has been seen for several cytokines in preclinical models, they have had limited success as single therapeutic agents in clinical trials of cancer immunotherapy. However, the possible combinations of cytokines with other immune therapeutics and the advancement in genetic engineering, synthetic biology and cellular and immune therapy has led to the revival of interest in cytokines as anticancer agents. This article will review several immunostimulatory cytokines with anticancer activity, focusing on the those that have been studied in treatment of lymphoma and highlighting recent advances of potential clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suheil Albert Atallah-Yunes
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Michael J Robertson
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Beig Parikhani A, Bagherzadeh K, Dehghan R, Biglari A, Shokrgozar MA, Riazi Rad F, Zeinali S, Talebkhan Y, Ajdary S, Ahangari Cohan R, Behdani M. Human IL-2Rɑ subunit binding modulation of IL-2 through a decline in electrostatic interactions: A computational and experimental approach. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264353. [PMID: 35213635 PMCID: PMC8880607 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although high-dose IL-2 has clear antitumor effects, severe side effects like severe toxicity and activation of Tregs by binding of IL-2 to high-affinity IL-2R, hypotension, and vascular leak syndrome limit its applications as a therapeutic antitumor agent. Here in this study, a rational computational approach was employed to develop and design novel triple-mutant IL-2 variants with the aim of improving IL-2-based immunotherapy. The affinity of the mutants towards IL-2Rα was further computed with the aid of molecular dynamic simulations and umbrella sampling techniques and the obtained results were compared to those of wild-type IL-2. In vitro experiments by flow cytometry showed that the anti-CD25 mAb was able to bind to PBMC cells even after mutant 2 preincubation, however, the binding strength of the mutant to α-subunit was less than of wtIL-2. Additionally, reduction of IL-2Rα subunit affinity did not significantly disturb IL-2/IL2Rβγc subunits interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Beig Parikhani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kowsar Bagherzadeh
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rada Dehghan
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Biglari
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Farhad Riazi Rad
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sirous Zeinali
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Talebkhan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Ajdary
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: , (MB); (RAC); (SA)
| | - Reza Ahangari Cohan
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, New Technologies Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: , (MB); (RAC); (SA)
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: , (MB); (RAC); (SA)
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Krupnick AS. Neoadjuvant Multimodality Induction Therapy for Locally Advanced Initially Unresectable Lung Cancer: A New Hope. Ann Surg 2022; 275:e603-e604. [PMID: 34913895 PMCID: PMC8816852 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000005343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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12
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Jin S, Sun Y, Liang X, Gu X, Ning J, Xu Y, Chen S, Pan L. Emerging new therapeutic antibody derivatives for cancer treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:39. [PMID: 35132063 PMCID: PMC8821599 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00868-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies constitute a promising class of targeted anticancer agents that enhance natural immune system functions to suppress cancer cell activity and eliminate cancer cells. The successful application of IgG monoclonal antibodies has inspired the development of various types of therapeutic antibodies, such as antibody fragments, bispecific antibodies, and antibody derivatives (e.g., antibody–drug conjugates and immunocytokines). The miniaturization and multifunctionalization of antibodies are flexible and viable strategies for diagnosing or treating malignant tumors in a complex tumor environment. In this review, we summarize antibodies of various molecular types, antibody applications in cancer therapy, and details of clinical study advances. We also discuss the rationale and mechanism of action of various antibody formats, including antibody–drug conjugates, antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates, bispecific/multispecific antibodies, immunocytokines, antibody fragments, and scaffold proteins. With advances in modern biotechnology, well-designed novel antibodies are finally paving the way for successful treatments of various cancers, including precise tumor immunotherapy, in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Jin
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanping Sun
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Gu
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangtao Ning
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingchun Xu
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuqing Chen
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Precision Medicine on Tumor Therapeutics, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, 311200, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Liqiang Pan
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China. .,The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, 310003, Hangzhou, China.
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13
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Interleukin 2-Based Fusion Proteins for the Treatment of Cancer. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:7855808. [PMID: 34790830 PMCID: PMC8592747 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7855808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 2 (IL-2) plays a fundamental role in both immune activation and tolerance and has revolutionized the field of cancer immunotherapy since its discovery. The ability of IL-2 to mediate tumor regression in preclinical and clinical settings led to FDA approval for its use in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma and metastatic melanoma in the 1990s. Although modest success is observed in the clinic, cancer patients receiving IL-2 therapy experience a wide array of side effects ranging from flu-like symptoms to life-threatening conditions such as vascular leak syndrome. Over the past three decades, efforts have focused on circumventing IL-2-related toxicities by engineering methods to localize IL-2 to the tumor or secondary lymphoid tissue, preferentially activate CD8+ T cells and NK cells, and alter pharmacokinetic properties to increase bioavailability. This review summarizes the various IL-2-based strategies that have emerged, with a focus on chimeric fusion methods.
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14
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NK Cell Therapy: A Rising Star in Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164129. [PMID: 34439285 PMCID: PMC8394762 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A cancer treatment approach known as immunotherapy has become popular in the medical field. In this case, immune cells are boosted for effective response against cancer. A type of immune cell with significant potential for use in immunotherapy is the natural killer (NK) cell. The number of NK cells in the cancer tissues has been shown to be lower than normal, and this contributes to the growth of cancer cells. Besides, the immune function of the NK cells is compromised, thus interfering with anticancer immunity. Many research studies are being conducted to develop cancer treatment strategies based on increasing the number of NK cells and enhancing their activity. Abstract Immunotherapy has become a robust and routine treatment strategy for patients with cancer; however, there are efficacy and safety issues that should be resolved. Natural killer (NK) cells are important innate immune cells that have attracted increasing attention owing to their major histocompatibility complex-independent immunosurveillance ability. These cells provide the first-line defense against carcinogenesis and are closely related to cancer development. However, NK cells are functionally suppressed owing to multiple immunosuppressive factors in the tumor microenvironment; thus, releasing the suppressed state of NK cells is an emergent project and a promising solution for immunotherapy. As a result, many clinical trials of NK cell therapy alone or in combination with other agents are currently underway. This review describes the current status of NK cell therapy for cancer treatment based on the effector function and releasing the inhibited state of NK cells in the cancer microenvironment.
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15
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Alves E, McLeish E, Blancafort P, Coudert JD, Gaudieri S. Manipulating the NKG2D Receptor-Ligand Axis Using CRISPR: Novel Technologies for Improved Host Immunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:712722. [PMID: 34456921 PMCID: PMC8397441 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.712722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The activating immune receptor natural killer group member D (NKG2D) and its cognate ligands represent a fundamental surveillance system of cellular distress, damage or transformation. Signaling through the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis is critical for early detection of viral infection or oncogenic transformation and the presence of functional NKG2D ligands (NKG2D-L) is associated with tumor rejection and viral clearance. Many viruses and tumors have developed mechanisms to evade NKG2D recognition via transcriptional, post-transcriptional or post-translational interference with NKG2D-L, supporting the concept that circumventing immune evasion of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis may be an attractive therapeutic avenue for antiviral therapy or cancer immunotherapy. To date, the complexity of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis and the lack of specificity of current NKG2D-targeting therapies has not allowed for the precise manipulation required to optimally harness NKG2D-mediated immunity. However, with the discovery of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, novel opportunities have arisen in the realm of locus-specific gene editing and regulation. Here, we give a brief overview of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis in humans and discuss the levels at which NKG2D-L are regulated and dysregulated during viral infection and oncogenesis. Moreover, we explore the potential for CRISPR-based technologies to provide novel therapeutic avenues to improve and maximize NKG2D-mediated immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Alves
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Emily McLeish
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Pilar Blancafort
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jerome D. Coudert
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Silvana Gaudieri
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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16
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Ravirala D, Mistretta B, Gunaratne PH, Pei G, Zhao Z, Zhang X. Co-delivery of novel bispecific and trispecific engagers by an amplicon vector augments the therapeutic effect of an HSV-based oncolytic virotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-002454. [PMID: 34230110 PMCID: PMC8261877 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although oncolytic virotherapy has shown substantial promises as a new treatment modality for many malignancies, further improvement on its therapeutic efficacy will likely bring more clinical benefits. One plausible way of enhancing the therapeutic effect of virotherapy is to enable it with the ability to concurrently engage the infiltrating immune cells to provide additional antitumor mechanisms. Here, we report the construction and evaluation of two novel chimeric molecules (bispecific chimeric engager proteins, BiCEP and trispecific chimeric engager protein, TriCEP) that can engage both natural killer (NK) and T cells with tumor cells for enhanced antitumor activities. METHODS BiCEP was constructed by linking orthopoxvirus major histocompatibility complex class I-like protein, which can selectively bind to NKG2D with a high affinity to a mutant form of epidermal growth factor (EGF) that can strongly bind to EGF receptor. TriCEP is similarly constructed except that it also contains a modified form of interleukin-2 that can only function as a tethered form. As NKG2D is expressed on both NK and CD8+ T cells, both of which can thus be engaged by BiCEP and TriCEP. RESULTS Both BiCEP and TriCEP showed the ability to engage NK and T cells to kill tumor cells in vitro. Coadministration of BiCEP and TriCEP with an oncolytic herpes simplex virus enhanced the overall antitumor effect. Furthermore, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that TriCEP not only engaged NK and T cells to kill tumor cells, it also promotes the infiltration and activation of these important immune cells. CONCLUSIONS These novel chimeric molecules exploit the ability of the oncolytic virotherapy in altering the tumor microenvironment with increased infiltration of important immune cells such as NK and T cells for cancer immunotherapy. The ability of BiCEP and TriCEP to engage both NK and T cells makes them an ideal choice for arming an oncolytic virotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Ravirala
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Brandon Mistretta
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.,UH Seq-N-Edit Core, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Preethi H Gunaratne
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.,UH Seq-N-Edit Core, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Guangsheng Pei
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiaoliu Zhang
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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17
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Banerjee A, Li D, Guo Y, Mahgoub B, Paragas L, Slobin J, Mei Z, Manafi A, Hata A, Li K, Shi L, Westwick J, Slingluff C, Lazear E, Krupnick AS. Retargeting IL-2 Signaling to NKG2D-Expressing Tumor-Infiltrating Leukocytes Improves Adoptive Transfer Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2021; 207:333-343. [PMID: 34155069 PMCID: PMC8688582 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo expansion followed by reinfusion of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes (TILs) has been used successfully for the treatment of multiple malignancies. Most protocols rely on the use of the cytokine IL-2 to expand TILs prior to reinfusion. In addition, TIL administration relies on systemic administration of IL-2 after reinfusion to support transferred cell survival. The use of IL-2, however, can be problematic because of its preferential expansion of regulatory T and myeloid cells as well as its systemic side effects. In this study, we describe the use of a novel IL-2 mutant retargeted to NKG2D rather than the high-affinity IL-2R for TIL-mediated immunotherapy in a murine model of malignant melanoma. We demonstrate that the NKG2D-retargeted IL-2 (called OMCPmutIL-2) preferentially expands TIL-resident CTLs, such as CD8+ T cells, NK cells, and γδT cells, whereas wild-type IL-2 provides a growth advantage for CD4+Foxp3+ T cells as well as myeloid cells. OMCPmutIL-2-expanded CTLs express higher levels of tumor-homing receptors, such as LFA-1, CD49a, and CXCR3, which correlate with TIL localization to the tumor bed after i.v. injection. Consistent with this, OMCPmutIL-2-expanded TILs provided superior tumor control compared with those expanded in wild-type IL-2. Our data demonstrate that adoptive transfer immunotherapy can be improved by rational retargeting of cytokine signaling to NKG2D-expressing CTLs rather than indiscriminate expansion of all TILs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Banerjee
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA;
| | - Dongge Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Yizhan Guo
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Bayan Mahgoub
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Lea Paragas
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | | | - Zhongcheng Mei
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Amir Manafi
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Atsushi Hata
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kang Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an, Jiaotong University, Shaanxi, China; and
| | - Lei Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an, Jiaotong University, Shaanxi, China; and
| | | | - Craig Slingluff
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | | | - Alexander Sasha Krupnick
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA;
- Courier Therapeutics, Houston, TX
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18
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Natural Killer Cells Are Present in Rag1 -/- Mice and Promote Tissue Damage During the Acute Phase of Ischemic Stroke. Transl Stroke Res 2021; 13:197-211. [PMID: 34105078 PMCID: PMC8766401 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-021-00923-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rag1−/− mice, lacking functional B and T cells, have been extensively used as an adoptive transfer model to evaluate neuroinflammation in stroke research. However, it remains unknown whether natural killer (NK) cell development and functions are altered in Rag1−/− mice as well. This connection has been rarely discussed in previous studies but might have important implications for data interpretation. In contrast, the NOD-Rag1nullIL2rgnull (NRG) mouse model is devoid of NK cells and might therefore eliminate this potential shortcoming. Here, we compare immune-cell frequencies as well as phenotype and effector functions of NK cells in Rag1−/− and wildtype (WT) mice using flow cytometry and functional in vitro assays. Further, we investigate the effect of Rag1−/− NK cells in the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model using antibody-mediated depletion of NK cells and adoptive transfer to NRG mice in vivo. NK cells in Rag1−/− were comparable in number and function to those in WT mice. Rag1−/− mice treated with an anti-NK1.1 antibody developed significantly smaller infarctions and improved behavioral scores. Correspondingly, NRG mice supplemented with NK cells were more susceptible to tMCAO, developing infarctions and neurological deficits similar to Rag1−/− controls. Our results indicate that NK cells from Rag1−/− mice are fully functional and should therefore be considered in the interpretation of immune-cell transfer models in experimental stroke. Fortunately, we identified the NRG mice, as a potentially better-suited transfer model to characterize individual cell subset-mediated neuroinflammation in stroke.
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19
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Hess JB, Sutherland KD, Best SA. Exploring natural killer cell immunology as a therapeutic strategy in lung cancer. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2021; 10:2788-2805. [PMID: 34295678 PMCID: PMC8264324 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-20-765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cytotoxic immune cells are key in the control of tumor development and progression. Natural killer (NK) cells are the cytotoxic arm of the innate immune system with the capability to kill tumor cells and surveil tumor cell dissemination. As such, the interest in harnessing NK cells in tumor control is increasing in many solid tumor types, including lung cancer. Here, we review the pre-clinical models used to unveil the role of NK cells in immunosurveillance of solid tumors and highlight measures to enhance NK cell activity. Importantly, the development of NK immunotherapy is rapidly evolving. Enhancing the NK cell response can be achieved using two broad modalities: enhancing endogenous NK cell activity, or performing adoptive transfer of pre-activated NK cells to patients. Numerous clinical trials are evaluating the efficacy of NK cell immunotherapy in isolation or in combination with standard treatments, with encouraging initial results. Pre-clinical studies and early phase clinical trials suggest that patients with solid tumors, including lung cancer, have the potential to benefit from recent developments in NK cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas B Hess
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cell Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate D Sutherland
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cell Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah A Best
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cell Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Lazarova M, Wels WS, Steinle A. Arming cytotoxic lymphocytes for cancer immunotherapy by means of the NKG2D/NKG2D-ligand system. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 20:1491-1501. [PMID: 32726145 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1803273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The activating NKG2D receptor plays a central role in the immune recognition and elimination of abnormal self-cells by cytotoxic lymphocytes. NKG2D binding to cell stress-inducible ligands (NKG2DL) up-regulated on cancer cells facilitates their immunorecognition. Yet tumor cells utilize various escape mechanisms to avert NKG2D-based immunosurveillance. Hence, therapeutic strategies targeting the potent NKG2D/NKG2DL axis and such immune escape mechanisms become increasingly attractive in cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED This perspective provides a brief introduction into the NKG2D/NKG2DL axis and its relevance for cancer immune surveillance. Subsequently, the most advanced therapeutic approaches targeting the NKG2D system are presented focusing on NKG2D-CAR engineered immune cells and antibody-mediated strategies to inhibit NKG2DL shedding by tumors. EXPERT OPINION Thus far, NKG2D-CAR engineered lymphocytes represent the most advanced therapeutic approach utilizing the NKG2D system. Similarly to other tumor-targeting CAR approaches, NKG2D-CAR cells demonstrate powerful on-target activity, but may also cause off-tumor toxicities or lose efficacy, if NKG2DL expression by tumors is reduced. However, NKG2D-CAR cells also act on the tumor microenvironment curtailing its immunosuppressive properties, thus providing an independent therapeutic benefit. The potency of tumoricidal NKG2D-expressing lymphocytes can be further boosted by enhancing NKG2DL expression through small molecules and therapeutic antibodies inhibiting tumor-associated shedding of NKG2DL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Lazarova
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Winfried S Wels
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz , Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander Steinle
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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21
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Easom NJW, Marks M, Jobe D, Gillmore R, Meyer T, Maini MK, Njie R. ULBP1 Is Elevated in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Predicts Outcome. Front Oncol 2020; 10:971. [PMID: 32656081 PMCID: PMC7324784 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and despite recent immunotherapeutic advances there remains a need for improved diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools. UL-16 binding protein 1 (ULBP1) is a ligand of the activatory receptor Natural Killer cell Group 2 receptor D (NKG2D) and is found as a cell-surface protein on some malignant cells including on human hepatocellular carcinomas. We aimed to explore the biological and clinical significance of NKG2D ligands in the circulation of patients with HCC. We measured ULBP1 in the serum of two retrospective cohorts of patients with HCC from the PROLIFICA cohort in The Gambia (n = 43) and from a tertiary care setting in the UK (n = 72) by sandwich ELISA. Exosome isolation by size exclusion was used to compare ULBP1 concentration in exosomes and as free protein. Survival analysis was performed and multiple linear regression and Poisson regression were used to assess the independent effect of ULBP1 concentration. ULBP1 was raised in both cohorts with HCC regardless of the underlying liver disease, and was not associated with markers of cirrhosis such as platelet count or serum albumin. ULBP1 was present predominantly as free protein rather than bound to exosomes. Serum ULBP1 > 2000 pg/ml was associated with a significantly reduced survival in both cohorts (hazard ratios in Gambian and UK cohorts 2.37 and 2.1, respectively). The effect remained significant after adjustment for BCLC staging (p = 0.03). These data suggest that ULBP1 merits further investigation as a prognostic marker in HCC in diverse settings and should also be explored as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J. W. Easom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Marks
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dawda Jobe
- MRC Unit the Gambia at LSHTM, Fajara, Gambia
| | | | - Tim Meyer
- Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ramou Njie
- Gambia Hepatitis Intervention Study (GHIS), IARC, Lyon, France
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22
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Landgraf KE, Williams SR, Steiger D, Gebhart D, Lok S, Martin DW, Roybal KT, Kim KC. convertibleCARs: A chimeric antigen receptor system for flexible control of activity and antigen targeting. Commun Biol 2020; 3:296. [PMID: 32518350 PMCID: PMC7283332 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-1021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) platform that functions as a modular system to address limitations of traditional CAR therapies. An inert form of the human NKG2D extracellular domain (iNKG2D) was engineered as the ectodomain of the CAR to generate convertibleCARTM-T cells. These cells were specifically directed to kill antigen-expressing target cells only in the presence of an activating bispecific adapter comprised of an iNKG2D-exclusive ULBP2-based ligand fused to an antigen-targeting antibody (MicAbodyTM). Efficacy against Raji tumors in NSG mice was dependent upon doses of both a rituximab-based MicAbody and convertibleCAR-T cells. We have also demonstrated that the exclusive ligand-receptor partnering enabled the targeted delivery of a mutant form of IL-2 to selectively promote the expansion of convertibleCAR-T cells in vitro and in vivo. By altering the Fv domains of the MicAbody or the payload fused to the orthogonal ligand, convertibleCAR-T cells can be readily targeted or regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle E Landgraf
- Reflexion Pharmaceuticals, 937 Tahoe Blvd, Suite 150, Incline Village, NV, 89451, USA
| | - Steven R Williams
- Xyphos Biosciences, an Astellas Company, 100 Kimball Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Daniel Steiger
- Freenome, 279 E Grand Ave 5th Floor, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Dana Gebhart
- Xyphos Biosciences, an Astellas Company, 100 Kimball Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Stephen Lok
- Zymergen, 5980 Horton St #105, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA
| | - David W Martin
- Xyphos Biosciences, an Astellas Company, 100 Kimball Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Kole T Roybal
- University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue HSE-301, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Kaman Chan Kim
- Xyphos Biosciences, an Astellas Company, 100 Kimball Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
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23
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Abstract
The continuous interactions between host and pathogens during their coevolution have shaped both the immune system and the countermeasures used by pathogens. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that are considered central players in the antiviral response. Not only do they express a variety of inhibitory and activating receptors to discriminate and eliminate target cells but they can also produce immunoregulatory cytokines to alert the immune system. Reciprocally, several unrelated viruses including cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus, influenza virus, and dengue virus have evolved a multitude of mechanisms to evade NK cell function, such as the targeting of pathways for NK cell receptors and their ligands, apoptosis, and cytokine-mediated signaling. The studies discussed in this article provide further insights into the antiviral function of NK cells and the pathways involved, their constituent proteins, and ways in which they could be manipulated for host benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Mancini
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada;,
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Silvia M. Vidal
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada;,
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada
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24
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Alvarez M, Simonetta F, Baker J, Morrison AR, Wenokur AS, Pierini A, Berraondo P, Negrin RS. Indirect Impact of PD-1/PD-L1 Blockade on a Murine Model of NK Cell Exhaustion. Front Immunol 2020; 11:7. [PMID: 32117218 PMCID: PMC7026672 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The induction of exhaustion on effector immune cells is an important limiting factor for cancer immunotherapy efficacy as these cells undergo a hierarchical loss of proliferation and cytolytic activity due to chronic stimulation. Targeting PD-1 has shown unprecedented clinical benefits for many cancers, which have been attributed to the prevention of immune suppression and exhaustion with enhanced anti-tumor responses. In this study, we sought to evaluate the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in murine natural killer (NK) cell activation, function, and exhaustion. In an in vivo IL-2-dependent exhaustion mouse model, neutralization of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway improved NK cell activation after chronic stimulation when compared to control-treated mice. These cells displayed higher proliferative capabilities and enhanced granzyme B production. However, the blockade of these molecules during long-term in vitro IL-2 stimulation did not alter the progression of NK cell exhaustion (NCE), suggesting an indirect involvement of PD-1/PD-L1 on NCE. Given the expansion of CD8 T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) observed upon acute and chronic stimulation with IL-2, either of these two populations could influence NK cell homeostasis after PD-L1/PD-1 therapy. Importantly, CD8 T cell activation and functional phenotype were indeed enhanced by PD-1/PD-L1 therapy, particularly with anti-PD-1 treatment that resulted in the highest upregulation of CD25 during chronic stimulation and granted an advantage for IL-2 over NK cells. These results indicate a competition for resources between NK and CD8 T cells that arguably delays the onset of NCE rather than improving its activation during chronic stimulation. Supporting this notion, the depletion of CD8 T cells reversed the benefits of PD-1 therapy on chronically stimulated NK cells. These data suggest a bystander effect of anti-PD1 on NK cells, resulting from the global competition that exists between NK and CD8 T cells for IL-2 as a key regulator of these cells' activation. Thus, achieving an equilibrium between these immune cells might be important to accomplish long-term efficacy during anti-PD-1/IL-2 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maite Alvarez
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Federico Simonetta
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jeanette Baker
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Alyssa R Morrison
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Arielle S Wenokur
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Antonio Pierini
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert S Negrin
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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25
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Liu H, Wang S, Xin J, Wang J, Yao C, Zhang Z. Role of NKG2D and its ligands in cancer immunotherapy. Am J Cancer Res 2019; 9:2064-2078. [PMID: 31720075 PMCID: PMC6834480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The activating receptor natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) is involved in both innate and adaptive immunities, and functions as a "master switch" in determining the activation status of natural killer (NK) cells. NKG2D binds to a diverse family of ligand molecules, which are only expressed at low levels in normal cells but can be upregulated by a cellular stress response. The NKG2D-NKG2D ligand (NKG2DL) pathway has been considered to be promising target for immunotherapy because of the selective expression of "stress-induced ligands" on tumor cells and the strong NK cell activating potency of NKG2D. Diverse strategies that are aimed at targeting the NKG2D pathway for cancer therapy are based on a thorough understanding of this mechanism, as well as that of NKG2D-mediated cancer immunity. In this review, we summarize the major findings regarding the antitumor immune response mediated by the NKG2D receptor and its ligands, and discuss the potential clinical applications of targeting the NKG2D/NKG2DL pathway for immunotherapy in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sijia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Xin
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cuiping Yao
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhenxi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biomedical Analytical Technology and Instrumentation, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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26
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Bruins J, van de Wouw C, Wagner K, Bartels L, Albada B, van Delft FL. Highly Efficient Mono-Functionalization of Knob-in-Hole Antibodies with Strain-Promoted Click Chemistry. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:11801-11807. [PMID: 31460288 PMCID: PMC6682001 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b01727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Knob-in-hole antibodies can be utilized to introduce a single tag for chemo-enzymatic functionalization. By either introducing a single C-terminal sortase tag (sortase-tag expressed protein ligation) or tyrosine tag (G4Y), mono-functionalization of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab was achieved rapidly and in high yields. This method was applied to selectively and efficiently introduce a single fluorescent tag, cytokine or single-chain variable fragment, as well as produce clean homo dimers of trastuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorick
J. Bruins
- Laboratory
of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University
& Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Criss van de Wouw
- Laboratory
of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University
& Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Koen Wagner
- AIMM
Therapeutics, Meibergdreef
59, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lina Bartels
- AIMM
Therapeutics, Meibergdreef
59, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bauke Albada
- Laboratory
of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University
& Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Floris L. van Delft
- Laboratory
of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University
& Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
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27
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Natural Killer Cells as Allogeneic Effectors in Adoptive Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060769. [PMID: 31163679 PMCID: PMC6628161 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are attractive within adoptive transfer settings in cancer immunotherapy due to their potential for allogeneic use; their alloreactivity is enhanced under conditions of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) mismatch with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands on cancer cells. In addition to this, NK cells are platforms for genetic modification, and proliferate in vivo for a shorter time relative to T cells, limiting off-target activation. Current clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of allogeneic NK cell adoptive transfer therapies as a means for treatment of hematologic malignancies and, to a lesser extent, solid tumors. However, challenges associated with sourcing allogeneic NK cells have given rise to controversy over the contribution of NK cells to graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Specifically, blood-derived NK cell infusions contain contaminating T cells, whose activation with NK-stimulating cytokines has been known to lead to heightened release of proinflammatory cytokines and trigger the onset of GvHD in vivo. NK cells sourced from cell lines and stem cells lack contaminating T cells, but can also lack many phenotypic characteristics of mature NK cells. Here, we discuss the available published evidence for the varying roles of NK cells in GvHD and, more broadly, their use in allogeneic adoptive transfer settings to treat various cancers.
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28
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Hu W, Wang G, Huang D, Sui M, Xu Y. Cancer Immunotherapy Based on Natural Killer Cells: Current Progress and New Opportunities. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1205. [PMID: 31214177 PMCID: PMC6554437 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has been firmly established as a new milestone for cancer therapy, with the development of multiple immune cells as therapeutic tools. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells endowed with potent cytolytic activity against tumors, and meanwhile act as regulatory cells for the immune system. The efficacy of NK cell-mediated immunotherapy can be enhanced by immune stimulants such as cytokines and antibodies, and adoptive transfer of activated NK cells expanded ex vivo. In addition, NK cells can arm themselves with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), which may greatly enhance their anti-tumor activity. Most recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from NK cells show promising anti-tumor effects in preclinical studies. Herein, we carefully review the current progress in these NK cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies (NK cells combined with stimulants, adoptive transfer of NK cells, CAR-NK cells, and NK EVs) for the treatment of cancers, and discussed the challenges and opportunities for opening a new horizon for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilei Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guosheng Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Huang
- Department of Surgery & Clinical Research Institute of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.,Center for Cancer Biology and Innovative Therapeutics, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meihua Sui
- Department of Surgery & Clinical Research Institute of Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.,Center for Cancer Biology and Innovative Therapeutics, Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yibing Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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29
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Kim N, Lee HH, Lee HJ, Choi WS, Lee J, Kim HS. Natural killer cells as a promising therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. Arch Pharm Res 2019; 42:591-606. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-019-01143-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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30
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Tang A, Harding F. The challenges and molecular approaches surrounding interleukin-2-based therapeutics in cancer. Cytokine X 2019. [PMCID: PMC7885892 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytox.2018.100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
IL2-based cancer therapies are limited by their toxicity and pleiotropy. Current engineering approaches target IL2 half-life and cell/receptor specificity. IL2 may enhance the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T-based therapies.
Interleukin-2 has had a long history as a promising cancer therapeutic, being capable of eliciting complete and durable remissions in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma and metastatic melanoma. Despite high toxicity and efficacy limited to only certain patient subpopulations and cancer types, the prospective use of novel, engineered IL2 formats in combination with the presently expanding repertoire of immuno-oncological targets remains very encouraging. This is possible due to the significant research efforts in the IL2 field that have yielded critical structural and biological insights that have made IL2 more effective and more broadly applicable in the clinic. In this review, we discuss some of the molecular approaches that have been used to further improve IL2 therapy for cancer.
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31
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Lazarova M, Steinle A. The NKG2D axis: an emerging target in cancer immunotherapy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:281-294. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1580693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Lazarova
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander Steinle
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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32
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Nayyar G, Chu Y, Cairo MS. Overcoming Resistance to Natural Killer Cell Based Immunotherapies for Solid Tumors. Front Oncol 2019; 9:51. [PMID: 30805309 PMCID: PMC6378304 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, the prognosis of several solid tumor malignancies remains poor. Different factors associated with solid tumors including a varied genetic signature, complex molecular signaling pathways, defective cross talk between the tumor cells and immune cells, hypoxic and immunosuppressive effects of tumor microenvironment result in a treatment resistant and metastatic phenotype. Over the past several years, immunotherapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic option against multiple malignancies. The unique ability of natural killer (NK) cells to target cancer cells without antigen specificity makes them an ideal candidate for use against solid tumors. However, the outcomes of adoptive NK cell infusions into patients with solid tumors have been disappointing. Extensive studies have been done to investigate different strategies to improve the NK cell function, trafficking and tumor targeting. Use of cytokines and cytokine analogs has been well described and utilized to enhance the proliferation, stimulation and persistence of NK cells. Other techniques like blocking the human leukocyte antigen-killer cell receptors (KIR) interactions with anti-KIR monoclonal antibodies, preventing CD16 receptor shedding, increasing the expression of activating NK cell receptors like NKG2D, and use of immunocytokines and immune checkpoint inhibitors can enhance NK cell mediated cytotoxicity. Using genetically modified NK cells with chimeric antigen receptors and bispecific and trispecific NK cell engagers, NK cells can be effectively redirected to the tumor cells improving their cytotoxic potential. In this review, we have described these strategies and highlighted the need to further optimize these strategies to improve the clinical outcome of NK cell based immunotherapy against solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Nayyar
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Yaya Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Mitchell S Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
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33
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Mortara L, Balza E, Bruno A, Poggi A, Orecchia P, Carnemolla B. Anti-cancer Therapies Employing IL-2 Cytokine Tumor Targeting: Contribution of Innate, Adaptive and Immunosuppressive Cells in the Anti-tumor Efficacy. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2905. [PMID: 30619269 PMCID: PMC6305397 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-cytokine fusion proteins (immunocytokine) exert a potent anti-cancer effect; indeed, they target the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) due to a specific anti-tumor antibody linked to immune activating cytokines. Once bound to the target tumor, the interleukin-2 (IL-2) immunocytokines composed of either full antibody or single chain Fv conjugated to IL-2 can promote the in situ recruitment and activation of natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (CTL). This recruitment induces a TME switch toward a classical T helper 1 (Th1) anti-tumor immune response, supported by the cross-talk between NK and dendritic cells (DC). Furthermore, some IL-2 immunocytokines have been largely shown to trigger tumor cell killing by antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), through Fcγ receptors engagement. The modulation of the TME can be also achieved with immunocytokines conjugated with a mutated form of IL-2 that impairs regulatory T (Treg) cell proliferation and activity. Preclinical animal models and more recently phase I/II clinical trials have shown that IL-2 immunocytokines can avoid the severe toxicities of the systemic administration of high doses of soluble IL-2 maintaining the potent anti-tumor effect of this cytokine. Also, very promising results have been reported using IL-2 immunocytokines delivered in combination with other immunocytokines, chemo-, radio-, anti-angiogenic therapies, and blockade of immune checkpoints. Here, we summarize and discuss the most relevant reported studies with a focus on: (a) the effects of IL-2 immunocytokines on innate and adaptive anti-tumor immune cell responses as well as immunosuppressive Treg cells and (b) the approaches to circumvent IL-2-mediated severe toxic side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Mortara
- Immunology and General Pathology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Enrica Balza
- UOC Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonino Bruno
- Vascular Biology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Scientific and Technologic Park, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- UOSD Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- UOC Immunology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Barbara Carnemolla
- UOC Immunology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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34
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Natural Killer Cells in Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:1206737. [PMID: 30255103 PMCID: PMC6142725 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1206737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nature killer (NK) cells play a critical role in host innate and adaptive immune defense against viral infections and tumors. NK cells are enriched in liver hematopoietic cells with unique NK repertories and functions to safeguard liver cells against hepatitis virus infection or malignancy transformation. However, accumulating evidences were found that the NK cells were modulated by liver diseases and liver cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and showed impaired functions failing to activate the elimination of the viral-infected cells or tumor cells and were further involved in the pathogenesis of liver injury and inflammation. The full characterization of circulation and intrahepatic NK cell phenotype and function in liver disease and liver cancer has not only provided new insight into the disease pathogenesis but has also discovered new targets for developing new NK cell-based therapeutic strategies. This review will discuss and summarize the NK cell phenotypic and functional changes in liver disease and HCC, and the NK cell-based immunotherapy approaches and progresses for cancers including HCC will also be reviewed.
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35
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García Nores GD, Ly CL, Cuzzone DA, Kataru RP, Hespe GE, Torrisi JS, Huang JJ, Gardenier JC, Savetsky IL, Nitti MD, Yu JZ, Rehal S, Mehrara BJ. CD4 + T cells are activated in regional lymph nodes and migrate to skin to initiate lymphedema. Nat Commun 2018; 9:1970. [PMID: 29773802 PMCID: PMC5958132 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04418-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell-mediated responses have been implicated in the development of fibrosis, impaired lymphangiogenesis, and lymphatic dysfunction in secondary lymphedema. Here we show that CD4+ T cells are necessary for lymphedema pathogenesis by utilizing adoptive transfer techniques in CD4 knockout mice that have undergone tail skin and lymphatic excision or popliteal lymph node dissection. We also demonstrate that T cell activation following lymphatic injury occurs in regional skin-draining lymph nodes after interaction with antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells. CD4+ T cell activation is associated with differentiation into a mixed T helper type 1 and 2 phenotype, as well as upregulation of adhesion molecules and chemokines that promote migration to the skin. Most importantly, we find that blocking T cell release from lymph nodes using a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator prevents lymphedema, suggesting that this approach may have clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela D García Nores
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Catherine L Ly
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Daniel A Cuzzone
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Raghu P Kataru
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Geoffrey E Hespe
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jeremy S Torrisi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jung Ju Huang
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jason C Gardenier
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ira L Savetsky
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Matthew D Nitti
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jessie Z Yu
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sonia Rehal
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Suite MRI 1006, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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36
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León K, García-Martínez K, Carmenate T, Rojas G. Combining computational and experimental biology to develop therapeutically valuable IL2 muteins. Semin Oncol 2018; 45:95-104. [PMID: 30318089 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
High-dose IL2, first approved in 1992, has been used in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and melanoma. In these indications, IL2 induces long lasting objective responses in 5% to 20% of patients. However, toxicity and the unexpected expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) have limited its practical use and therapeutic impact, respectively. At the Center of Molecular Immunology in Havana, Cuba, a project was launched in 2005 to rationally design IL2 muteins that could be deployed in the therapy of cancer. The basic goal was to uncouple the pleiotropic effect of IL2 on different immune T cells, to obtain a mutein with a therapeutic index that was better than that achieved with wild type (wt) IL2. Using a combination of computational and experimental biology approaches, we predicted and developed two novel IL2 muteins with therapeutic potential. The first, designated no-alpha mutein, is an agonist of IL2R signaling with a reduced ability to expand Treg in vivo. In mice, the no-alpha mutein IL2 has higher antitumor activity and lower toxicity than wt IL2. It represents a potential best-in-class drug that has begun phase I/II clinical trials in solid tumors. The second, designated no-gamma mutein, is an antagonist of IL2R signaling, with some preferential affinity for Tregs. This mutein has antitumor activity in mice that likely derives from its ability to reduce Treg accumulation in vivo. It represents a first-in-class drug that offers a novel strategy to inhibit Treg activity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalet León
- Center of Molecular Immunology (CIM), Havana, Cuba.
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37
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García-Martínez E, Smith M, Buqué A, Aranda F, de la Peña FA, Ivars A, Cánovas MS, Conesa MAV, Fucikova J, Spisek R, Zitvogel L, Kroemer G, Galluzzi L. Trial Watch: Immunostimulation with recombinant cytokines for cancer therapy. Oncoimmunology 2018; 7:e1433982. [PMID: 29872569 PMCID: PMC5980390 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2018.1433982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokines regulate virtually aspects of innate and adaptive immunity, including the initiation, execution and extinction of tumor-targeting immune responses. Over the past three decades, the possibility of using recombinant cytokines as a means to elicit or boost clinically relevant anticancer immune responses has attracted considerable attention. However, only three cytokines have been approved so far by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for use in cancer patients, namely, recombinant interleukin (IL)-2 and two variants of recombinant interferon alpha 2 (IFN-α2a and IFN-α2b). Moreover, the use of these cytokines in the clinics is steadily decreasing, mostly as a consequence of: (1) the elevated pleiotropism of IL-2, IFN-α2a and IFN-α2b, resulting in multiple unwarranted effects; and (2) the development of highly effective immunostimulatory therapeutics, such as immune checkpoint blockers. Despite this and other obstacles, research in the field continues as alternative cytokines with restricted effects on specific cell populations are being evaluated. Here, we summarize research preclinical and clinical developments on the use of recombinant cytokines for immunostimulation in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena García-Martínez
- Hematology and Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Morales Meseguer, Murcia, Spain
| | - Melody Smith
- Department of Medicine and Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Aitziber Buqué
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fernando Aranda
- Immunoreceptors of the Innate and Adaptive System, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alejandra Ivars
- Hematology and Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Morales Meseguer, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Sanchez Cánovas
- Hematology and Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Morales Meseguer, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Jitka Fucikova
- Sotio, Prague, Czech Republic
- Dept. of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Spisek
- Sotio, Prague, Czech Republic
- Dept. of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Laurence Zitvogel
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, U1015, Villejuif, France
- Center of Clinical Investigations in Biotherapies of Cancer (CICBT) 1428, Villejuif, France
- Université Paris Sud/Paris XI, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie/Paris VI, Paris
- Equipe 11 labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- INSERM, U1138, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pôle de Biologie, Hopitâl Européen George Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, France
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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38
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Ding H, Yang X, Wei Y. Fusion Proteins of NKG2D/NKG2DL in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010177. [PMID: 29316666 PMCID: PMC5796126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
NKG2D (natural killer group 2, member D) is an important activating receptor in natural killer (NK) cells and some T cells. NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are specifically expressed on most tumor cells. The engagement of these ligands on tumor cells to NKG2D on NK cells will induce cell-mediated cytotoxicity and have target cells destroyed. This gives NKG2D/NKG2DLs great potential in cancer therapeutic application. The creation of NKG2D/NKG2DL-based multi-functional fusion proteins is becoming one of the most promising strategies in immunotherapy for cancer. Antibodies, cytokines, and death receptors have been fused with NKG2D or its ligands to produce many powerful fusion proteins, including NKG2D-based chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). In this article, we review the recent developments of the fusion proteins with NKG2D/NKG2DL ligands in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ding
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings Street, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings Street, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - Yanzhang Wei
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings Street, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
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Zamecnik CR, Lowe MM, Patterson DM, Rosenblum MD, Desai TA. Injectable Polymeric Cytokine-Binding Nanowires Are Effective Tissue-Specific Immunomodulators. ACS NANO 2017; 11:11433-11440. [PMID: 29124929 PMCID: PMC5709211 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b06094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Injectable nanomaterials that interact with the host immune system without surgical intervention present spatially anchored complements to cell transplantation and could offer improved pharmacokinetics compared to systemic cytokine therapy. Here we demonstrate fabrication of high aspect ratio polycaprolactone nanowires coupled with cytokine-binding antibodies that assemble into porous matrices when injected into the subcutaneous space. These structures are fabricated using a nanotemplating technique that allows for tunability of particle dimensions and utilize a straightforward maleimide conjugation chemistry to allow site-specific coupling to proteins. Nanowires are well tolerated in vivo and incite minimal inflammatory infiltrate. Nanowires conjugated with antibodies were designed to capture and potentiate endogenous interleukin-2 (IL-2), an important leukocyte activating cytokine. Together these nanowire-antibody matrices were capable of localizing endogenous IL-2 in the skin and activated targeted specific natural killer and T cell subsets, demonstrating both tissue- and cell-specific immune activation. These self-assembling nanowire matrices show promise as scaffolds to present engineered, local receptor-ligand interactions for cytokine-mediated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin R. Zamecnik
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
- UC Berkeley–UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, Mission Bay Campus, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Margaret M. Lowe
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - David M. Patterson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Michael D. Rosenblum
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Tejal A. Desai
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
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Valedkarimi Z, Nasiri H, Aghebati-Maleki L, Majidi J. Antibody-cytokine fusion proteins for improving efficacy and safety of cancer therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:731-742. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.07.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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Fang F, Xiao W, Tian Z. NK cell-based immunotherapy for cancer. Semin Immunol 2017; 31:37-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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42
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Molecular checkpoints controlling natural killer cell activation and their modulation for cancer immunotherapy. Exp Mol Med 2017; 49:e311. [PMID: 28360428 PMCID: PMC5382566 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2017.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have gained considerable attention as promising therapeutic tools for cancer therapy due to their innate selectivity against cancer cells over normal healthy cells. With an array of receptors evolved to sense cellular alterations, NK cells provide early protection against cancer cells by producing cytokines and chemokines and exerting direct cytolytic activity. These effector functions are governed by signals transmitted through multiple receptor–ligand interactions but are not achieved by engaging a single activating receptor on resting NK cells. Rather, they require the co-engagement of different activating receptors that use distinct signaling modules, due to a cell-intrinsic inhibition mechanism. The redundancy of synergizing receptors and the inhibition of NK cell function by a single class of inhibitory receptor suggest the presence of common checkpoints to control NK cell activation through different receptors. These molecular checkpoints would be therapeutically targeted to harness the power of NK cells against diverse cancer cells that express heterogeneous ligands for NK cell receptors. Recent advances in understanding the activation of NK cells have revealed promising candidates in this category. Targeting such molecular checkpoints will facilitate NK cell activation by lowering activation thresholds, thereby providing therapeutic strategies that optimize NK cell reactivity against cancer.
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Klein C, Waldhauer I, Nicolini VG, Freimoser-Grundschober A, Nayak T, Vugts DJ, Dunn C, Bolijn M, Benz J, Stihle M, Lang S, Roemmele M, Hofer T, van Puijenbroek E, Wittig D, Moser S, Ast O, Brünker P, Gorr IH, Neumann S, de Vera Mudry MC, Hinton H, Crameri F, Saro J, Evers S, Gerdes C, Bacac M, van Dongen G, Moessner E, Umaña P. Cergutuzumab amunaleukin (CEA-IL2v), a CEA-targeted IL-2 variant-based immunocytokine for combination cancer immunotherapy: Overcoming limitations of aldesleukin and conventional IL-2-based immunocytokines. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1277306. [PMID: 28405498 PMCID: PMC5384349 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1277306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed cergutuzumab amunaleukin (CEA-IL2v, RG7813), a novel monomeric CEA-targeted immunocytokine, that comprises a single IL-2 variant (IL2v) moiety with abolished CD25 binding, fused to the C-terminus of a high affinity, bivalent carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)-specific antibody devoid of Fc-mediated effector functions. Its molecular design aims to (i) avoid preferential activation of regulatory T-cells vs. immune effector cells by removing CD25 binding; (ii) increase the therapeutic index of IL-2 therapy by (a) preferential retention at the tumor by having a lower dissociation rate from CEA-expressing cancer cells vs. IL-2R-expressing cells, (b) avoiding any FcγR-binding and Fc effector functions and (c) reduced binding to endothelial cells expressing CD25; and (iii) improve the pharmacokinetics, and thus convenience of administration, of IL-2. The crystal structure of the IL2v-IL-2Rβγ complex was determined and CEA-IL2v activity was assessed using human immune effector cells. Tumor targeting was investigated in tumor-bearing mice using 89Zr-labeled CEA-IL2v. Efficacy studies were performed in (a) syngeneic mouse models as monotherapy and combined with anti-PD-L1, and in (b) xenograft mouse models in combination with ADCC-mediating antibodies. CEA-IL2v binds to CEA with pM avidity but not to CD25, and consequently did not preferentially activate Tregs. In vivo, CEA-IL2v demonstrated superior pharmacokinetics and tumor targeting compared with a wild-type IL-2-based CEA immunocytokine (CEA-IL2wt). CEA-IL2v strongly expanded NK and CD8+ T cells, skewing the CD8+:CD4+ ratio toward CD8+ T cells both in the periphery and in the tumor, and mediated single agent efficacy in syngeneic MC38-CEA and PancO2-CEA models. Combination with trastuzumab, cetuximab and imgatuzumab, all of human IgG1 isotype, resulted in superior efficacy compared with the monotherapies alone. Combined with anti-PD-L1, CEA-IL2v mediated superior efficacy over the respective monotherapies, and over the combination with an untargeted control immunocytokine. These preclinical data support the ongoing clinical investigation of the cergutuzumab amunaleukin immunocytokine with abolished CD25 binding for the treatment of CEA-positive solid tumors in combination with PD-L1 checkpoint blockade and ADCC competent antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Klein
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Inja Waldhauer
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Valeria G. Nicolini
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Tapan Nayak
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Danielle J. Vugts
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Claire Dunn
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Marije Bolijn
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jörg Benz
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martine Stihle
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Lang
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Michaele Roemmele
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Hofer
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Erwin van Puijenbroek
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - David Wittig
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Samuel Moser
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Ast
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Peter Brünker
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Ingo H. Gorr
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Neumann
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Heather Hinton
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Flavio Crameri
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jose Saro
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Evers
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Christian Gerdes
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Marina Bacac
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Guus van Dongen
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ekkehard Moessner
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Pablo Umaña
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
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Lazear E, Ghasemi R, Hein SM, Westwick J, Watkins D, Fremont DH, Krupnick AS. Targeting of IL-2 to cytotoxic lymphocytes as an improved method of cytokine-driven immunotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1265721. [PMID: 28344875 PMCID: PMC5353927 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1265721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of high-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) has fallen out of favor due to severe life-threatening side effects. We have recently described a unique way of directly targeting IL-2 to cytotoxic lymphocytes using a virally encoded immune evasion protein and an IL-2 mutant that avoids off-target side effects such as activation of regulatory T cells and vascular endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lazear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Reza Ghasemi
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Daved H Fremont
- Departments of Pathology & Immunology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, and Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
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