1
|
Wu B, Zhang B, Li B, Wu H, Jiang M. Cold and hot tumors: from molecular mechanisms to targeted therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:274. [PMID: 39420203 PMCID: PMC11491057 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01979-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has made significant strides in cancer treatment, particularly through immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), which has shown notable clinical benefits across various tumor types. Despite the transformative impact of ICB treatment in cancer therapy, only a minority of patients exhibit a positive response to it. In patients with solid tumors, those who respond well to ICB treatment typically demonstrate an active immune profile referred to as the "hot" (immune-inflamed) phenotype. On the other hand, non-responsive patients may exhibit a distinct "cold" (immune-desert) phenotype, differing from the features of "hot" tumors. Additionally, there is a more nuanced "excluded" immune phenotype, positioned between the "cold" and "hot" categories, known as the immune "excluded" type. Effective differentiation between "cold" and "hot" tumors, and understanding tumor intrinsic factors, immune characteristics, TME, and external factors are critical for predicting tumor response and treatment results. It is widely accepted that ICB therapy exerts a more profound effect on "hot" tumors, with limited efficacy against "cold" or "altered" tumors, necessitating combinations with other therapeutic modalities to enhance immune cell infiltration into tumor tissue and convert "cold" or "altered" tumors into "hot" ones. Therefore, aligning with the traits of "cold" and "hot" tumors, this review systematically delineates the respective immune characteristics, influencing factors, and extensively discusses varied treatment approaches and drug targets based on "cold" and "hot" tumors to assess clinical efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Youth League Committee, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Haoqi Wu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Meixi Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee JW, Chen EY, Hu T, Perret R, Chaffee ME, Martinov T, Mureli S, McCurdy CL, Jones LA, Gafken PR, Chanana P, Su Y, Chapuis AG, Bradley P, Schmitt TM, Greenberg PD. Overcoming immune evasion from post-translational modification of a mutant KRAS epitope to achieve TCR-T cell-mediated antitumor activity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.18.612965. [PMID: 39345486 PMCID: PMC11429761 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.18.612965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
T cell receptor (TCR)-T cell immunotherapy, in which T cells are engineered to express a TCR targeting a tumor epitope, is a form of adoptive cell therapy (ACT) that has exhibited promise against various tumor types. Mutants of oncoprotein KRAS, particularly at glycine-12 (G12), are frequent drivers of tumorigenicity, making them attractive targets for TCR-T cell therapy. However, class I-restricted TCRs specifically targeting G12-mutant KRAS epitopes in the context of tumors expressing HLA-A2, the most common human HLA-A allele, have remained elusive despite evidence an epitope encompassing such mutations can bind HLA-A2 and induce T cell responses. We report post-translational modifications (PTMs) on this epitope may allow tumor cells to evade immunologic pressure from TCR-T cells. A lysine side chain-methylated KRAS G12V peptide, rather than the unmodified epitope, may be presented in HLA-A2 by tumor cells and impact TCR recognition. Using a novel computationally guided approach, we developed by mutagenesis TCRs that recognize this methylated peptide, enhancing tumor recognition and destruction. Additionally, we identified TCRs with similar functional activity in normal repertoires from primary T cells by stimulation with modified peptide, clonal expansion, and selection. Mechanistically, a gene knockout screen to identify mechanism(s) by which tumor cells methylate/demethylate this epitope unveiled SPT6 as a demethylating protein that could be targeted to improve effectiveness of these new TCRs. Our findings highlight the role of PTMs in immune evasion and suggest identifying and targeting such modifications should make effective ACTs available for a substantially greater range of tumors than the current therapeutic landscape. One-sentence summary Tumor cell methylation of KRAS G12V epitope in HLA-A2 permits immune evasion, and new TCRs were generated to overcome this with engineered cell therapy.
Collapse
|
3
|
Li J, Zhang Y, Fu T, Xing G, Cai H, Li K, Xu Y, Tong Y. Clinical advances and challenges associated with TCR-T cell therapy for cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1487782. [PMID: 39439803 PMCID: PMC11493697 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1487782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background T cell receptor (TCR)-T cell therapy is an innovative form of cancer immunotherapy that genetically modifies patients' T cells to target and destroy cancer cells. However, the current status of clinical trials of TCR-T cell therapy for the treatment of cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the registration trials related to TCR-T cell therapy for the treatment of cancer. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted in the Trialtrove database for all clinical trials related to TCR-T cell therapy registered by August 1, 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on trials targeting TCR-T cell therapy for oncology, and excluded observational studies and incomplete data. Statistical analysis was performed on key trial characteristics, with between-group comparisons utilizing chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Results Analysis of 174 eligible clinical trials revealed that TCR-T cell therapy exhibits significant efficacy across various tumor types, particularly in refractory hematologic malignancies and certain solid tumors. Additionally, combining TCR-T cell therapy with other immunotherapies enhanced these anti-tumor effects. Conclusion TCR-T cell therapy holds substantial promise for cancer treatment. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment protocols, enhancing efficacy, and minimizing prices to fully realize the potential of this therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Li
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yongsheng Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Tong Fu
- Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Guoli Xing
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Hongbo Cai
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Kaiqing Li
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yutong Xu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Ying Tong
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pellatt AJ, Bhamidipati D, Subbiah V. Ready, Set, Go: Setting Off on the Mission to Target KRAS in Colorectal Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2024; 20:1289-1292. [PMID: 38739884 DOI: 10.1200/op.24.00295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the landscape of KRAS mutations in #CRC is crucial with over 2.8M annual diagnoses worldwide. Explore promising therapies and ongoing challenges in this comprehensive review. #CancerResearch #KRAS #ColorectalCancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Pellatt
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Deepak Bhamidipati
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wan X, Zhang X, Xu M, Zheng Z, Zhou Y, Zhong Z. Unveiling the role of KRAS in Chinese colorectal cancer patients: a positive influence on tumor mutational burden. Transl Cancer Res 2024; 13:4752-4762. [PMID: 39430843 PMCID: PMC11483435 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-24-600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/22/2024]
Abstract
Background One of the main challenges associated with the development of therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is the establishment of minimally invasive and efficient biomarkers. Pertinent genes in CRC have been identified through their functions in systematic mutagenesis screens. KRAS is considered a dominant mutated oncogene that contributes to pathogenesis of CRC. This study aimed to explore the genomic alternations of KRAS in a CRC population. Methods Sequencing data of 94 Chinese patients with CRC were prospectively collected and analyzed using next-generation sequencing (NGS). The influence of KRAS and its associated subtype co-mutations on the expression level of the tumor mutational burden (TMB) was investigated. The objective of our study was to assess the potential prognostic significance of KRAS and other driving oncogenes in determining the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy. Results The gene mutation rates of TP53, APC, and KRAS were 81.91%, 71.28%, and 43.62%, respectively. Additionally, KRAS G12D displayed a relatively higher mutation rate than other KRAS-mutant subtypes. Increased TMB was observed in cases of KRAS and BRAF mutation combined with APC single mutation; furthermore, the expression of TMB in G12V was the highest, and G12D presented the lowest TMB in single KRAS-mutant subtypes or the combination with APC mutations. Conclusions The TMB driven by KRAS co-mutations may have the potential to be used as a key biomarker for prediction of treatment outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in patients with CRC, especially with APC co-mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuebin Wan
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- HaploX Biotechnology, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoni Zhang
- HaploX Biotechnology, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
- Haplox Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingyan Xu
- HaploX Biotechnology, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
- Haplox Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- HaploX Biotechnology, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Yujun Zhou
- HaploX Biotechnology, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiyong Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen Y, Zhou Q, Jia Z, Cheng N, Zhang S, Chen W, Wang L. Enhancing cancer immunotherapy: Nanotechnology-mediated immunotherapy overcoming immunosuppression. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:3834-3854. [PMID: 39309502 PMCID: PMC11413684 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.05.032] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is an important cancer treatment method that offers hope for curing cancer patients. While immunotherapy has achieved initial success, a major obstacle to its widespread adoption is the inability to benefit the majority of patients. The success or failure of immunotherapy is closely linked to the tumor's immune microenvironment. Recently, there has been significant attention on strategies to regulate the tumor immune microenvironment in order to stimulate anti-tumor immune responses in cancer immunotherapy. The distinctive physical properties and design flexibility of nanomedicines have been extensively utilized to target immune cells (including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs)), offering promising advancements in cancer immunotherapy. In this article, we have reviewed treatment strategies aimed at targeting various immune cells to regulate the tumor immune microenvironment. The focus is on cancer immunotherapy models that are based on nanomedicines, with the goal of inducing or enhancing anti-tumor immune responses to improve immunotherapy. It is worth noting that combining cancer immunotherapy with other treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, can maximize the therapeutic effects. Finally, we have identified the challenges that nanotechnology-mediated immunotherapy needs to overcome in order to design more effective nanosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunna Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Qianqian Zhou
- MOE-Anhui Joint Collaborative Innovation Center for Quality Improvement of Anhui Genuine Chinese Medicinal Materials, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Zongfang Jia
- MOE-Anhui Joint Collaborative Innovation Center for Quality Improvement of Anhui Genuine Chinese Medicinal Materials, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Nuo Cheng
- MOE-Anhui Joint Collaborative Innovation Center for Quality Improvement of Anhui Genuine Chinese Medicinal Materials, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Weidong Chen
- MOE-Anhui Joint Collaborative Innovation Center for Quality Improvement of Anhui Genuine Chinese Medicinal Materials, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Lei Wang
- MOE-Anhui Joint Collaborative Innovation Center for Quality Improvement of Anhui Genuine Chinese Medicinal Materials, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ashouri K, Wong A, Mittal P, Torres-Gonzalez L, Lo JH, Soni S, Algaze S, Khoukaz T, Zhang W, Yang Y, Millstein J, Lenz HJ, Battaglin F. Exploring Predictive and Prognostic Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2796. [PMID: 39199569 PMCID: PMC11353018 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162796] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. While immune checkpoint inhibitors have significantly improved patient outcomes, their effectiveness is mostly limited to tumors with microsatellite instability (MSI-H/dMMR) or an increased tumor mutational burden, which comprise 10% of cases. Advancing personalized medicine in CRC hinges on identifying predictive biomarkers to guide treatment decisions. This comprehensive review examines established tissue markers such as KRAS and HER2, highlighting their roles in resistance to anti-EGFR agents and discussing advances in targeted therapies for these markers. Additionally, this review summarizes encouraging data on promising therapeutic targets and highlights the clinical utility of liquid biopsies. By synthesizing current evidence and identifying knowledge gaps, this review provides clinicians and researchers with a contemporary understanding of the biomarker landscape in CRC. Finally, the review examines future directions and challenges in translating promising biomarkers into clinical practice, with the goal of enhancing personalized medicine approaches for colorectal cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karam Ashouri
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Alexandra Wong
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Pooja Mittal
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Lesly Torres-Gonzalez
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Jae Ho Lo
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Shivani Soni
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Sandra Algaze
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Taline Khoukaz
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Wu Zhang
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Yan Yang
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Joshua Millstein
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| | - Francesca Battaglin
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA; (K.A.); (A.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sim MJW, Hanada KI, Stotz Z, Yu Z, Lu J, Brennan P, Quastel M, Gillespie GM, Long EO, Yang JC, Sun PD. Identification and structural characterization of a mutant KRAS-G12V specific TCR restricted by HLA-A3. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2451079. [PMID: 39030753 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202451079] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in KRAS are some of the most common across multiple cancer types and are thus attractive targets for therapy. Recent studies demonstrated that mutant KRAS generates immunogenic neoantigens that are targetable by adoptive T-cell therapy in metastatic diseases. To expand mutant KRAS-specific immunotherapies, it is critical to identify additional HLA-I allotypes that can present KRAS neoantigens and their cognate T-cell receptors (TCR). Here, we identified a murine TCR specific to a KRAS-G12V neoantigen (7VVVGAVGVGK16) using a vaccination approach with transgenic mice expressing HLA-A*03:01 (HLA-A3). This TCR demonstrated exquisite specificity for mutant G12V and not WT KRAS peptides. To investigate the molecular basis for neoantigen recognition by this TCR, we determined its structure in complex with HLA-A3(G12V). G12V-TCR CDR3β and CDR1β formed a hydrophobic pocket to interact with p6 Val of the G12V but not the WT KRAS peptide. To improve the tumor sensitivity of this TCR, we designed rational substitutions to improve TCR:HLA-A3 contacts. Two substitutions exhibited modest improvements in TCR binding avidity to HLA-A3 (G12V) but did not sufficiently improve T-cell sensitivity for further clinical development. Our study provides mechanistic insight into how TCRs detect neoantigens and reveals the challenges in targeting KRAS-G12V mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm J W Sim
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | - Zachary Stotz
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhiya Yu
- Surgery Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jinghua Lu
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul Brennan
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Max Quastel
- Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Geraldine M Gillespie
- Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Eric O Long
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - James C Yang
- Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Peter D Sun
- Division of Intramural Research (DIR), Laboratory of Immunogenetics, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Oya Y, Imaizumi K, Mitsudomi T. The next-generation KRAS inhibitors…What comes after sotorasib and adagrasib? Lung Cancer 2024; 194:107886. [PMID: 39047616 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2024.107886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is one of the first driver oncogenes identified in human cancer in the early 1980s. However, it has been deemed 'undruggable' for nearly four decades until the discovery of KRAS G12C covalent inhibitors, which marked a pivotal breakthrough. Currently, sotorasib and adagrasib have been approved by the US FDA to treat patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring KRAS G12C mutation. However, their efficacy is somewhat limited compared to that of other targeted therapies owing to intrinsic resistance or early acquisition of resistance. While G12C is the predominant subtype of KRAS mutations in NSCLC, G12D/V is prevalent in colorectal and pancreatic cancers. These facts have spurred active research to develop more potent KRAS G12C inhibitors as well as inhibitors targeting non-G12C KRAS mutations. Novel approaches, such as molecular shielding or targeted protein degradation, are also under development. Combining KRAS inhibitors with inhibitors of the receptor-tyrosine kinase-RAS-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is underway to counteract redundant feedback mechanisms. Additionally, immunological approaches utilizing T-cell receptor (TCR)-engineered T cell therapy or vaccines, and Hapimmune antibodies are ongoing. This review delineates the recent advancements in KRAS inhibitor development in the post-sotorasib/adagrasib era, with a focus on NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Oya
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fujita Health University, Japan
| | | | - Tetsuya Mitsudomi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Izumi City General Hospital, Japan; Kindai University, Faculty of Medicine, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li X, Wang W, Wang J, Jiang M, He J, Tan S. Identification of HPV-E7 specific TCRs for tumor immunotherapy. Mol Immunol 2024; 171:56-65. [PMID: 38795685 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.05.006] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
The oncogenic protein E7 of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is constitutionally expressed in HPV-associated tumors and has the potential to be targeted in T cell receptor (TCR)-based immunotherapy. Adoptive transfer of TCR-engineered T (TCR-T) cells has shown promise as a therapeutic approach for HPV-induced tumors. This study aimed to identify HPV-E7 specific TCRs from HLA-A11:01 transgenic mice through single-cell sorting and sequencing facilitated by E789-97/HLA-A11:01 tetramer. Two dominant TCRs were identified, which exhibited specific binding to E789-97 presented in the context of HLA-A*11:01. TCR-T cells were prepared by infecting primary T cells with lentiviruses containing the TCR genes, and the two TCRs demonstrated substantial responsiveness and showed CD8+ dependent cytokine secretion characteristics. Further analyses of the cytokine profiles revealed that the two TCRs were capable of exerting polyfunctional responses upon specific stimulation. These findings suggest that the two TCRs represent promising candidates for the development of future therapeutic drugs targeting HPV-E7 in the context of HLA-A*11:01 for tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Li
- Institute of Physical Science and Information, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenling Wang
- Institute of Physical Science and Information, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Min Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Juanhua He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuguang Tan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao X, Shao S, Hu L. The recent advancement of TCR-T cell therapies for cancer treatment. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:663-674. [PMID: 38557898 PMCID: PMC11187488 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapies involve infusing engineered immune cells into cancer patients to recognize and eliminate tumor cells. Adoptive cell therapy, as a form of living drug, has undergone explosive growth over the past decade. The recognition of tumor antigens by the T-cell receptor (TCR) is one of the natural mechanisms that the immune system used to eliminate tumor cells. TCR-T cell therapy, which involves introducing exogenous TCRs into patients' T cells, is a novel cell therapy strategy. TCR-T cell therapy can target the entire proteome of cancer cells. Engineering T cells with exogenous TCRs to help patients combat cancer has achieved success in clinical trials, particularly in treating solid tumors. In this review, we examine the progress of TCR-T cell therapy over the past five years. This includes the discovery of new tumor antigens, protein engineering techniques for TCR, reprogramming strategies for TCR-T cell therapy, clinical studies on TCR-T cell therapy, and the advancement of TCR-T cell therapy in China. We also propose several potential directions for the future development of TCR-T cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhao
- />Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell SystemsShanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell BiologyCenter for Excellence in Molecular Cell ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200031China
| | - Shuai Shao
- />Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell SystemsShanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell BiologyCenter for Excellence in Molecular Cell ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200031China
| | - Lanxin Hu
- />Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell SystemsShanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell BiologyCenter for Excellence in Molecular Cell ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200031China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yin H, Tang Q, Xia H, Bi F. Targeting RAF dimers in RAS mutant tumors: From biology to clinic. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1895-1923. [PMID: 38799634 PMCID: PMC11120325 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.018] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
RAS mutations occur in approximately 30% of tumors worldwide and have a poor prognosis due to limited therapies. Covalent targeting of KRAS G12C has achieved significant success in recent years, but there is still a lack of efficient therapeutic approaches for tumors with non-G12C KRAS mutations. A highly promising approach is to target the MAPK pathway downstream of RAS, with a particular focus on RAF kinases. First-generation RAF inhibitors have been authorized to treat BRAF mutant tumors for over a decade. However, their use in RAS-mutated tumors is not recommended due to the paradoxical ERK activation mainly caused by RAF dimerization. To address the issue of RAF dimerization, type II RAF inhibitors have emerged as leading candidates. Recent clinical studies have shown the initial effectiveness of these agents against RAS mutant tumors. Promisingly, type II RAF inhibitors in combination with MEK or ERK inhibitors have demonstrated impressive efficacy in RAS mutant tumors. This review aims to clarify the importance of RAF dimerization in cellular signaling and resistance to treatment in tumors with RAS mutations, as well as recent progress in therapeutic approaches to address the problem of RAF dimerization in RAS mutant tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Yin
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiulin Tang
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongwei Xia
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang M, Xu W, Luo L, Guan F, Wang X, Zhu P, Zhang J, Zhou X, Wang F, Ye S. Identification and affinity enhancement of T-cell receptor targeting a KRAS G12V cancer neoantigen. Commun Biol 2024; 7:512. [PMID: 38684865 PMCID: PMC11058820 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06209-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Neoantigens derived from somatic mutations in Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS), the most frequently mutated oncogene, represent promising targets for cancer immunotherapy. Recent research highlights the potential role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele A*11:01 in presenting these altered KRAS variants to the immune system. In this study, we successfully generate and identify murine T-cell receptors (TCRs) that specifically recognize KRAS8-16G12V from three predicted high affinity peptides. By determining the structure of the tumor-specific 4TCR2 bound to KRASG12V-HLA-A*11:01, we conduct structure-based design to create and evaluate TCR variants with markedly enhanced affinity, up to 15.8-fold. This high-affinity TCR mutant, which involved only two amino acid substitutions, display minimal conformational alterations while maintaining a high degree of specificity for the KRASG12V peptide. Our research unveils the molecular mechanisms governing TCR recognition towards KRASG12V neoantigen and yields a range of affinity-enhanced TCR mutants with significant potential for immunotherapy strategies targeting tumors harboring the KRASG12V mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Wei Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100101, China
- Department of Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lingjie Luo
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Fenghui Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xiangyao Wang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Pei Zhu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100101, China
- Department of Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xuyu Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100101, China.
- Department of Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Sheng Ye
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Finnigan JP, Newman JH, Patskovsky Y, Patskovska L, Ishizuka AS, Lynn GM, Seder RA, Krogsgaard M, Bhardwaj N. Structural basis for self-discrimination by neoantigen-specific TCRs. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2140. [PMID: 38459027 PMCID: PMC10924104 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46367-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
T cell receptors (TCR) are pivotal in mediating tumour cell cytolysis via recognition of mutation-derived tumour neoantigens (neoAgs) presented by major histocompatibility class-I (MHC-I). Understanding the factors governing the emergence of neoAg from somatic mutations is a major focus of current research. However, the structural and cellular determinants controlling TCR recognition of neoAgs remain poorly understood. This study describes the multi-level analysis of a model neoAg from the B16F10 murine melanoma, H2-Db/Hsf2 p.K72N68-76, as well as its cognate TCR 47BE7. Through cellular, molecular and structural studies we demonstrate that the p.K72N mutation enhances H2-Db binding, thereby improving cell surface presentation and stabilizing the TCR 47BE7 epitope. Furthermore, TCR 47BE7 exhibited high functional avidity and selectivity, attributable to a broad, stringent, binding interface enabling recognition of native B16F10 despite low antigen density. Our findings provide insight into the generation of anchor-residue modified neoAg, and emphasize the value of molecular and structural investigations of neoAg in diverse MHC-I contexts for advancing the understanding of neoAg immunogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P Finnigan
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Pl., New York, NY, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Ave., New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jenna H Newman
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Pl., New York, NY, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Ave., New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yury Patskovsky
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Larysa Patskovska
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew S Ishizuka
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Barinthus Biotherapeutics, Germantown, MD, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Lynn
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Barinthus Biotherapeutics, Germantown, MD, USA
| | - Robert A Seder
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michelle Krogsgaard
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Nina Bhardwaj
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Pl., New York, NY, USA.
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Ave., New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA.
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang S, Wang H, Li C, Liu B, He S, Tu C. Tertiary lymphoid structures in cancer: immune mechanisms and clinical implications. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e489. [PMID: 38469550 PMCID: PMC10925885 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.489] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of death globally, and traditional treatments often have limited efficacy and adverse effects. Immunotherapy has shown promise in various malignancies but is less effective in tumors with low immunogenicity or immunosuppressive microenvironment, especially sarcomas. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) have been associated with a favorable response to immunotherapy and improved survival in cancer patients. However, the immunological mechanisms and clinical significance of TLS in malignant tumors are not fully understood. In this review, we elucidate the composition, neogenesis, and immune characteristics of TLS in tumors, as well as the inflammatory response in cancer development. An in-depth discussion of the unique immune characteristics of TLSs in lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and soft tissue sarcomas will be presented. Additionally, the therapeutic implications of TLS, including its role as a marker of therapeutic response and prognosis, and strategies to promote TLS formation and maturation will be explored. Overall, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of TLS in the tumor immune microenvironment and suggest potential interventions for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Xiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chenbei Li
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Binfeng Liu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Shasha He
- Department of OncologyThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chao Tu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Central South UniversityGuangdongChina
- Changsha Medical UniversityChangshaChina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
McShan AC, Flores-Solis D, Sun Y, Garfinkle SE, Toor JS, Young MC, Sgourakis NG. Conformational plasticity of RAS Q61 family of neoepitopes results in distinct features for targeted recognition. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8204. [PMID: 38081856 PMCID: PMC10713829 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43654-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The conformational landscapes of peptide/human leucocyte antigen (pHLA) protein complexes encompassing tumor neoantigens provide a rationale for target selection towards autologous T cell, vaccine, and antibody-based therapeutic modalities. Here, using complementary biophysical and computational methods, we characterize recurrent RAS55-64 Q61 neoepitopes presented by the common HLA-A*01:01 allotype. We integrate sparse NMR restraints with Rosetta docking to determine the solution structure of NRASQ61K/HLA-A*01:01, which enables modeling of other common RAS55-64 neoepitopes. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry experiments alongside molecular dynamics simulations reveal differences in solvent accessibility and conformational plasticity across a panel of common Q61 neoepitopes that are relevant for recognition by immunoreceptors. Finally, we predict binding and provide structural models of NRASQ61K antigens spanning the entire HLA allelic landscape, together with in vitro validation for HLA-A*01:191, HLA-B*15:01, and HLA-C*08:02. Our work provides a basis to delineate the solution surface features and immunogenicity of clinically relevant neoepitope/HLA targets for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C McShan
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, 901 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30318, USA
| | - David Flores-Solis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Von-Siebold Straße 3A, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Yi Sun
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Samuel E Garfinkle
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jugmohit S Toor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Michael C Young
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Nikolaos G Sgourakis
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mariuzza RA, Wu D, Pierce BG. Structural basis for T cell recognition of cancer neoantigens and implications for predicting neoepitope immunogenicity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1303304. [PMID: 38045695 PMCID: PMC10693334 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1303304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with tumor-specific T cells has been shown to mediate durable cancer regression. Tumor-specific T cells are also the basis of other therapies, notably cancer vaccines. The main target of tumor-specific T cells are neoantigens resulting from mutations in self-antigens over the course of malignant transformation. The detection of neoantigens presents a major challenge to T cells because of their high structural similarity to self-antigens, and the need to avoid autoimmunity. How different a neoantigen must be from its wild-type parent for it to induce a T cell response is poorly understood. Here we review recent structural and biophysical studies of T cell receptor (TCR) recognition of shared cancer neoantigens derived from oncogenes, including p53R175H, KRASG12D, KRASG12V, HHATp8F, and PIK3CAH1047L. These studies have revealed that, in some cases, the oncogenic mutation improves antigen presentation by strengthening peptide-MHC binding. In other cases, the mutation is detected by direct interactions with TCR, or by energetically driven or other indirect strategies not requiring direct TCR contacts with the mutation. We also review antibodies designed to recognize peptide-MHC on cell surfaces (TCR-mimic antibodies) as an alternative to TCRs for targeting cancer neoantigens. Finally, we review recent computational advances in this area, including efforts to predict neoepitope immunogenicity and how these efforts may be advanced by structural information on peptide-MHC binding and peptide-MHC recognition by TCRs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roy A. Mariuzza
- W.M. Keck Laboratory for Structural Biology, University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Rockville, MD, United States
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Daichao Wu
- Laboratory of Structural Immunology, Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Brian G. Pierce
- W.M. Keck Laboratory for Structural Biology, University of Maryland Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Rockville, MD, United States
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|