1
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Becker JC, Stang A, Schrama D, Ugurel S. Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Integrating Epidemiology, Immunology, and Therapeutic Updates. Am J Clin Dermatol 2024; 25:541-557. [PMID: 38649621 PMCID: PMC11193695 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-024-00858-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin cancer characterized by neuroendocrine differentiation. Its carcinogenesis is based either on the integration of the Merkel cell polyomavirus or on ultraviolet (UV) mutagenesis, both of which lead to high immunogenicity either through the expression of viral proteins or neoantigens. Despite this immunogenicity resulting from viral or UV-associated carcinogenesis, it exhibits highly aggressive behavior. However, owing to the rarity of MCC and the lack of epidemiologic registries with detailed clinical data, there is some uncertainty regarding the spontaneous course of the disease. Historically, advanced MCC patients were treated with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy yielding a median response duration of only 3 months. Starting in 2017, four programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immune checkpoint inhibitors-avelumab, pembrolizumab, nivolumab (utilized in both neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings), and retifanlimab-have demonstrated efficacy in treating patients with disseminated MCC on the basis of prospective clinical trials. However, generating clinical evidence for rare cancers, such as MCC, is challenging owing to difficulties in conducting large-scale trials, resulting in small sample sizes and therefore lacking statistical power. Thus, to comprehensively understand the available clinical evidence on various immunotherapy approaches for MCC, we also delve into the epidemiology and immune biology of this cancer. Nevertheless, while randomized studies directly comparing immune checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy in MCC are lacking, immunotherapy shows response rates comparable to those previously reported with chemotherapy but with more enduring responses. Notably, adjuvant nivolumab has proven superiority to the standard-of-care therapy (observation) in the adjuvant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen C Becker
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 1, 45141, Essen, Germany.
- Department of Dermatology, University Medicine Essen, Essen, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Andreas Stang
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Cancer Registry of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bochum, Germany
| | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Selma Ugurel
- Department of Dermatology, University Medicine Essen, Essen, Germany
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2
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Durand MA, Drouin A, Bachiri K, Durand L, Berthon P, Houben R, Schrama D, Coyaud E, Samimi M, Touzé A, Kervarrec T. Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 Inhibition Induces HLA Class I Re-Expression in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1398-1401.e1. [PMID: 38052265 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Alice Durand
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Aurélie Drouin
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Kamel Bachiri
- Department of Biology, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192-Protéomique Réponse Inflammatoire Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Laurine Durand
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Patricia Berthon
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Etienne Coyaud
- Department of Biology, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192-Protéomique Réponse Inflammatoire Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Mahtab Samimi
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France; Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Center (CHRU), University of Tours, Chambray-les-Tours, France
| | - Antoine Touzé
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Team "Biologie des Infections à Polyomavirus", UMR INRAE ISP 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France; Department of Pathology, University Hospital Center (CHRU), University of Tours, Chambray-les-Tours, France.
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3
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Fan W, Li W, Li L, Qin M, Mao C, Yuan Z, Wang P, Chu B, Jiang Y. Bifunctional HDAC and DNMT inhibitor induces viral mimicry activates the innate immune response in triple-negative breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 197:106767. [PMID: 38636781 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106767] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a unique breast cancer subtype characterized by a lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression. Since TNBC lacks ER, PR, and HER2, there are currently no drugs that specifically target TNBC. Therefore, the development of new drugs or effective treatment strategies to target TNBC has become an urgent clinical need. Research has shown that the application of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors and DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors leads to genomic and epigenomic instability. This, in turn, triggers the activation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and subsequently activates downstream interferon (IFN) signalling pathways. In this study, the bifunctional HDAC and DNMT inhibitor J208 exhibited antitumour activity in TNBC cell lines. J208 effectively induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, inhibiting cell migration and invasion in TNBC. Moreover, this bifunctional inhibitor induced the expression of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) and elicited a viral mimicry response, which increased the intracellular levels of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to activate the innate immune signalling pathway in TNBC. In summary, we demonstrated that the bifunctional inhibitor J208, which is designed to inhibit HDAC and DNMT, has potent anticancer effects, providing a new research basis for reactivating antitumour immunity by triggering innate immune signalling and offering a promising strategy for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwen Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wenkai Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lulu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Meirong Qin
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Chengzhou Mao
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zigao Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen 518057, China.
| | - Bizhu Chu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Yuyang Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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4
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Kubo T, Asano S, Sasaki K, Murata K, Kanaseki T, Tsukahara T, Hirohashi Y, Torigoe T. Assessment of cancer cell-expressed HLA class I molecules and their immunopathological implications. HLA 2024; 103:e15472. [PMID: 38699870 DOI: 10.1111/tan.15472] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has shown superior efficacy compared with conventional chemotherapy in certain cancer types, establishing immunotherapy as the fourth standard treatment alongside surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. In cancer immunotherapy employing ICIs, CD8-positive cytotoxic T lymphocytes are recognized as the primary effector cells. For effective clinical outcomes, it is essential that the targeted cancer cells express HLA class I molecules to present antigenic peptides derived from the tumor. However, cancer cells utilize various mechanisms to downregulate or lose HLA class I molecules from their surface, resulting in evasion from immune surveillance. Correlations between prognosis and the integrity of HLA class I molecules expressed by cancer cells have been consistently found across different types of cancer. This paper provides an overview of the regulatory mechanisms of HLA class I molecules and their role in cancer immunotherapy, with a particular emphasis on the significance of utilizing pathological tissues to evaluate HLA class I molecules expressed in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terufumi Kubo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shiori Asano
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kenta Sasaki
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kenji Murata
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kanaseki
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tomohide Tsukahara
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Hirohashi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Torigoe
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
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5
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Cheng B, Pan W, Xiao Y, Ding Z, Zhou Y, Fei X, Liu J, Su Z, Peng X, Chen J. HDAC-targeting epigenetic modulators for cancer immunotherapy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116129. [PMID: 38211468 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
HDAC inhibitors, which can inhibit the activity of HDAC enzymes, have been extensively studied in tumor immunotherapy and have shown potential therapeutic effects in cancer immunotherapy. To date, numerous small molecule HDAC inhibitors have been identified, but many of them suffer from limited clinical efficacy and serious toxicity. Hence, HDAC inhibitor-based combination therapies, and other HDAC modulators (e.g. PROTAC degraders, dual-acting agents) have attracted great attention with significant advancements achieved in the past few years due to their superior efficacy compared to single-target HDAC inhibitors. In this review, we overviewed the recent progress on HDAC-based drug discovery with a focus on HDAC inhibitor-based drug combination therapy and other HDAC-targeting strategies (e.g. selective HDAC inhibitors, HDAC-based dual-target inhibitors, and PROTAC HDAC degraders) for cancer immunotherapy. In addition, we also summarized the reported co-crystal structures of HDAC inhibitors in complex with their target proteins and the binding interactions. Finally, the challenges and future directions for HDAC-based drug discovery in cancer immunotherapy are also discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Cheng
- School of Medicine, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003, PR China; Key Laboratory of Joint Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease and Liver Cancer of Lishui, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui, Zhejiang, 323000, PR China; Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Wei Pan
- CardioIogy Department, Geriatric Department, Foshan Women and Children Hospital, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, PR China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, Wuchang, 430063, PR China
| | - Zongbao Ding
- Department of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, 519041, PR China
| | - Yingxing Zhou
- School of Medicine, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003, PR China
| | - Xiaoting Fei
- School of Medicine, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003, PR China
| | - Jin Liu
- School of Medicine, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003, PR China
| | - Zhenhong Su
- School of Medicine, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003, PR China.
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, PR China.
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, PR China.
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6
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Lim WC, Marques Da Costa ME, Godefroy K, Jacquet E, Gragert L, Rondof W, Marchais A, Nhiri N, Dalfovo D, Viard M, Labaied N, Khan AM, Dessen P, Romanel A, Pasqualini C, Schleiermacher G, Carrington M, Zitvogel L, Scoazec JY, Geoerger B, Salmon J. Divergent HLA variations and heterogeneous expression but recurrent HLA loss-of- heterozygosity and common HLA-B and TAP transcriptional silencing across advanced pediatric solid cancers. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1265469. [PMID: 38318504 PMCID: PMC10839790 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1265469] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system is a major factor controlling cancer immunosurveillance and response to immunotherapy, yet its status in pediatric cancers remains fragmentary. We determined high-confidence HLA genotypes in 576 children, adolescents and young adults with recurrent/refractory solid tumors from the MOSCATO-01 and MAPPYACTS trials, using normal and tumor whole exome and RNA sequencing data and benchmarked algorithms. There was no evidence for narrowed HLA allelic diversity but discordant homozygosity and allele frequencies across tumor types and subtypes, such as in embryonal and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma MYCN and 11q subtypes, and high-grade glioma, and several alleles may represent protective or susceptibility factors to specific pediatric solid cancers. There was a paucity of somatic mutations in HLA and antigen processing and presentation (APP) genes in most tumors, except in cases with mismatch repair deficiency or genetic instability. The prevalence of loss-of-heterozygosity (LOH) ranged from 5.9 to 7.7% in HLA class I and 8.0 to 16.7% in HLA class II genes, but was widely increased in osteosarcoma and glioblastoma (~15-25%), and for DRB1-DQA1-DQB1 in Ewing sarcoma (~23-28%) and low-grade glioma (~33-50%). HLA class I and HLA-DR antigen expression was assessed in 194 tumors and 44 patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) by immunochemistry, and class I and APP transcript levels quantified in PDXs by RT-qPCR. We confirmed that HLA class I antigen expression is heterogeneous in advanced pediatric solid tumors, with class I loss commonly associated with the transcriptional downregulation of HLA-B and transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) genes, whereas class II antigen expression is scarce on tumor cells and occurs on immune infiltrating cells. Patients with tumors expressing sufficient HLA class I and TAP levels such as some glioma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma and non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft-tissue sarcoma cases may more likely benefit from T cell-based approaches, whereas strategies to upregulate HLA expression, to expand the immunopeptidome, and to target TAP-independent epitopes or possibly LOH might provide novel therapeutic opportunities in others. The consequences of HLA class II expression by immune cells remain to be established. Immunogenetic profiling should be implemented in routine to inform immunotherapy trials for precision medicine of pediatric cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Ching Lim
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Bioinformatics Platform, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Karine Godefroy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Translational Research Laboratory and Biobank, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Eric Jacquet
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR2301, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Loren Gragert
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Windy Rondof
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Bioinformatics Platform, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Antonin Marchais
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Bioinformatics Platform, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Naima Nhiri
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR2301, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Davide Dalfovo
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Mathias Viard
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
- Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Nizar Labaied
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Translational Research Laboratory and Biobank, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Asif M. Khan
- School of Data Sciences, Perdana University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Philippe Dessen
- Bioinformatics Platform, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Alessandro Romanel
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Claudia Pasqualini
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Gudrun Schleiermacher
- INSERM U830, Recherche Translationnelle en Oncologie Pédiatrique (RTOP), and SIREDO Oncology Center (Care, Innovation and Research for Children and AYA with Cancer), PSL Research University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Mary Carrington
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
- Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Laurence Zitvogel
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Jean-Yves Scoazec
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Translational Research Laboratory and Biobank, AMMICA, INSERM US23/CNRS UMS3655, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Jerome Salmon
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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7
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Zeng X, Nong WX, Zou XQ, Li F, Ge YY, Zhang QM, Luo B, Huang W, Zou JX, Fan R, Xie XX. Prediction and identification of HLA-A*0201-restricted epitopes from cancer testis antigen CT23. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2293299. [PMID: 38100550 PMCID: PMC10730135 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2293299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-testis antigen CT23 is a class of tumor-associated antigens (TAA) characterized by restricted expression in male germ cells and a variety of tumor tissues. Numerous studies have shown that CT23 is closely related to tumor cell viability, proliferation, metastasis and invasion. CT23 is immunogenic and can cause specific immune response in tumor patients. Therefore, it is considered to be one of the best target antigens for designing therapeutic tumor vaccines and T-cell-mediated tumor immunotherapy. In this study, we initially obtained seven HLA-A*0201-restricted CT23 epitope candidate peptides through the T cell epitope prediction program. Subsequently, a T2 cell binding assay revealed the potential binding of all candidate peptides with HLA-A2 molecules. Notably, peptide P7 (ALLVLCYSI) exhibited the highest affinity, as evidenced by a fluorescence index (FI) of 2.19. Dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with CT23 candidate peptide can stimulate CD8+T cell activation and proliferation, and compared with other candidate peptides, candidate peptide P7 is superior. The cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) stimulated by the peptide P7 had killing effect on tumor cells (HLA-A*0201+, CT23+), but no killing effect on tumor cells (HLA-A*0201-, CT23+). The CTLs induced by the peptide P7 also had a specific killing effect on T2 cells bearing the peptide P7. In summary, our findings suggest that the CT23 peptide P7 (ALLVLCYSI) can induce immune responses and holds potential for tumor-specific CTL therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zeng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Xia Nong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Qiong Zou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Ying-Ying Ge
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Mei Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Bin Luo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Xia Zou
- Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Rong Fan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Xun Xie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment of Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
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8
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Rocha GIY, Gomes JEM, Leite ML, da Cunha NB, Costa FF. Epigenome-Driven Strategies for Personalized Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancer Manag Res 2023; 15:1351-1367. [PMID: 38058537 PMCID: PMC10697012 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s272031] [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: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fighting cancer remains one of the greatest challenges for science in the 21st century. Advances in immunotherapy against different types of cancer have greatly contributed to the treatment, remission, and cure of patients. In this context, knowledge of epigenetic phenomena, their relationship with tumor cells and how the immune system can be epigenetically modulated represent some of the greatest advances in the development of anticancer therapies. Epigenetics is a rapidly growing field that studies how environmental factors can affect gene expression without altering DNA sequence. Epigenomic changes include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA regulation, which impact cellular function. Epigenetics has shown promise in developing cancer therapies, such as immunotherapy, which aims to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. For example, PD-1 and PD-L1 are biomarkers that regulate the immune response to cancer cells and recent studies have shown that epigenetic modifications can affect their expression, potentially influencing the efficacy of immunotherapy. New therapies targeting epigenetic modifications, such as histone deacetylases and DNA methyltransferases, are being developed for cancer treatment, and some have shown promise in preclinical studies and clinical trials. With growing understanding of epigenetic regulation, we can expect more personalized and effective cancer immunotherapies in the future. This review highlights key advances in the use of epigenetic and epigenomic tools and modern immuno-oncology strategies to treat several types of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michel Lopes Leite
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Program, Catholic University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Nicolau B da Cunha
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Program, Catholic University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (FAV), Campus Darcy Ribeiro, University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Agronomy, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Fabricio F Costa
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Program, Catholic University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Genomic Enterprise, San FranciscoCA, USA
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Tao Q, Du JX, Zhang S, Lin W, Luo Y, Liu Y, Zeng J, Chen XL. Longitudinal multi-functional analysis identified responses of T cells, B cells, and monocytes as hallmarks of immunotherapy tolerance in patients with merkel cell carcinoma. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293922. [PMID: 37983224 PMCID: PMC10659156 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a neuroendocrine carcinoma originating in the skin. Studies are needed to determine the mechanisms of immune escape in patients with MCC, and malignant cell conditions that promote immune evasion. METHODS We used Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to determine cellular features associated with MCC disease trajectory. A longitudinal multi-omics study was performed using scRNA-seq data of peripheral blood harvested from four-time points. Six major cell types and fifteen cell subgroups were identified and confirmed their presence by expression of characteristic markers. The expression patterns and specific changes of different cells at different time points were investigated. Subsequently, bulk RNA data was used to validate key findings. RESULTS The dynamic characteristics of the cells were identified during the critical period between benign improvement and acquisition of resistance. Combined with the results of the validation cohort, the resistance program expressed in the relapse stage is mainly associated with T cell exhaustion and immune cell crosstalk disorder. Coinciding with immune escape, we also identified a decrease non-classical monocytes and an expansion of classical monocytes with features of high inflammation and immune deficiency. CONCLUSION Changes in cellular status, such as depletion of T cells and dysregulation of B cell proliferation and differentiation, may lead to drug resistance in MCC patients. Meanwhile, the widespread decreased antigen presentation ability and immune disorders caused by deletion of MHC class II gene expression should not be ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quyuan Tao
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia-xin Du
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shijing Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenjia Lin
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongxin Luo
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingyan Zeng
- Shenzhen Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-lin Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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10
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Chen Z, Yang X, Chen Z, Li M, Wang W, Yang R, Wang Z, Ma Y, Xu Y, Ao S, Liang L, Cai C, Wang C, Deng T, Gu D, Zhou H, Zeng G. A new histone deacetylase inhibitor remodels the tumor microenvironment by deletion of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells and sensitizes prostate cancer to immunotherapy. BMC Med 2023; 21:402. [PMID: 37880708 PMCID: PMC10601128 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03094-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignancy diagnosed in men. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) alone showed disappointing results in PCa. It is partly due to the formation of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) could not be reversed effectively by ICB alone. METHODS We used PCa cell lines to evaluate the combined effects of CN133 and anti-PD-1 in the subcutaneous and osseous PCa mice models, as well as the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS We found that CN133 could reduce the infiltration of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs), and CN133 combination with anti-PD-1 could augment antitumor effects in the subcutaneous PCa of allograft models. However, anti-PD-1 combination with CN133 failed to elicit an anti-tumor response to the bone metastatic PCa mice. Mechanistically, CN133 could inhibit the infiltration of PMN-MDSCs in the TME of soft tissues by downregulation gene expression of PMN-MDSC recruitment but not change the gene expression involved in PMN-MDSC activation in the CN133 and anti-PD-1 co-treatment group relative to the anti-PD-1 alone in the bone metastatic mice model. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our work firstly demonstrated that combination of CN133 with anti-PD-1 therapy may increase the therapeutic efficacy to PCa by reactivation of the positive immune microenvironment in the TME of soft tissue PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zude Chen
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Xiaoshuang Yang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zugen Chen
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minzhao Li
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- The Second Ward of Urology, Qujing Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Qujing, China
| | - Riwei Yang
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zuomin Wang
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxiang Ma
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yulong Xu
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Shan Ao
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leqi Liang
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Cai
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changning Wang
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Tuo Deng
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Di Gu
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hongqing Zhou
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- The Second Ward of Urology, Qujing Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Qujing, China.
| | - Guohua Zeng
- Department of Urology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Celikdemir B, Houben R, Kervarrec T, Samimi M, Schrama D. Current and preclinical treatment options for Merkel cell carcinoma. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1015-1034. [PMID: 37691397 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2257603] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, highly aggressive form of skin cancer with neuroendocrine features. The origin of this cancer is still unclear, but research in the last 15 years has demonstrated that MCC arises via two distinct etiologic pathways, i.e. virus and UV-induced. Considering the high mortality rate and the limited therapeutic options available, this review aims to highlight the significance of MCC research and the need for advancement in MCC treatment. AREAS COVERED With the advent of the immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies, we now have treatment options providing a survival benefit for patients with advanced MCC. However, the issue of primary and acquired resistance to these therapies remains a significant concern. Therefore, ongoing efforts seeking additional therapeutic targets and approaches for MCC therapy are a necessity. Through a comprehensive literature search, we provide an overview on recent preclinical and clinical studies with respect to MCC therapy. EXPERT OPINION Currently, the only evidence-based therapy for MCC is immune checkpoint blockade with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 for advanced patients. Neoadjuvant, adjuvant and combined immune checkpoint blockade are promising treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Büke Celikdemir
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Department of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire De Tours, Tours, France
| | - Mahtab Samimi
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Tours, Tours, France
| | - David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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12
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Pagliuca S, Gurnari C, Hercus C, Hergalant S, Hong S, Dhuyser A, D'Aveni M, Aarnink A, Rubio MT, Feugier P, Ferraro F, Carraway HE, Sobecks R, Hamilton BK, Majhail NS, Visconte V, Maciejewski JP. Leukemia relapse via genetic immune escape after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3153. [PMID: 37258544 PMCID: PMC10232425 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38113-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) reactions are responsible for the effectiveness of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation as a treatment modality for myeloid neoplasia, whereby donor T- effector cells recognize leukemia neoantigens. However, a substantial fraction of patients experiences relapses because of the failure of the immunological responses to control leukemic outgrowth. Here, through a broad immunogenetic study, we demonstrate that germline and somatic reduction of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) heterogeneity enhances the risk of leukemic recurrence. We show that preexistent germline-encoded low evolutionary divergence of class II HLA genotypes constitutes an independent factor associated with disease relapse and that acquisition of clonal somatic defects in HLA alleles may lead to escape from GvL control. Both class I and II HLA genes are targeted by somatic mutations as clonal selection factors potentially impairing cellular immune responses and response to immunomodulatory strategies. These findings define key molecular modes of post-transplant leukemia escape contributing to relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Pagliuca
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Hematology, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- CNRS UMR 7365, IMoPA, Biopole of University of Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Carmelo Gurnari
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, PhD in Immunology, Molecular Medicine and Applied Biotechnology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Colin Hercus
- Novocraft Technologies Sdn Bhd, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sébastien Hergalant
- Inserm UMR-S 1256 Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, 54500, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Sanghee Hong
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Adele Dhuyser
- CNRS UMR 7365, IMoPA, Biopole of University of Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- Histocompatibility Department, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Maud D'Aveni
- Department of Hematology, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- CNRS UMR 7365, IMoPA, Biopole of University of Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Alice Aarnink
- CNRS UMR 7365, IMoPA, Biopole of University of Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- Histocompatibility Department, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Marie Thérèse Rubio
- Department of Hematology, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- CNRS UMR 7365, IMoPA, Biopole of University of Lorraine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Pierre Feugier
- Department of Hematology, CHRU de Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Francesca Ferraro
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hetty E Carraway
- Leukemia Program, Hematology Department, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ronald Sobecks
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Betty K Hamilton
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Navneet S Majhail
- Sarah Cannon Transplant and Cellular Therapy Network, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Valeria Visconte
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jaroslaw P Maciejewski
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Jani S, Church CD, Nghiem P. Insights into anti-tumor immunity via the polyomavirus shared across human Merkel cell carcinomas. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1172913. [PMID: 37287968 PMCID: PMC10242112 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1172913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding and augmenting cancer-specific immunity is impeded by the fact that most tumors are driven by patient-specific mutations that encode unique antigenic epitopes. The shared antigens in virus-driven tumors can help overcome this limitation. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a particularly interesting tumor immunity model because (1) 80% of cases are driven by Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) oncoproteins that must be continually expressed for tumor survival; (2) MCPyV oncoproteins are only ~400 amino acids in length and are essentially invariant between tumors; (3) MCPyV-specific T cell responses are robust and strongly linked to patient outcomes; (4) anti-MCPyV antibodies reliably increase with MCC recurrence, forming the basis of a standard clinical surveillance test; and (5) MCC has one of the highest response rates to PD-1 pathway blockade among all solid cancers. Leveraging these well-defined viral oncoproteins, a set of tools that includes over 20 peptide-MHC class I tetramers has been developed to facilitate the study of anti-tumor immunity across MCC patients. Additionally, the highly immunogenic nature of MCPyV oncoproteins forces MCC tumors to develop robust immune evasion mechanisms to survive. Indeed, several immune evasion mechanisms are active in MCC, including transcriptional downregulation of MHC expression by tumor cells and upregulation of inhibitory molecules including PD-L1 and immunosuppressive cytokines. About half of patients with advanced MCC do not persistently benefit from PD-1 pathway blockade. Herein, we (1) summarize the lessons learned from studying the anti-tumor T cell response to virus-positive MCC; (2) review immune evasion mechanisms in MCC; (3) review mechanisms of resistance to immune-based therapies in MCC and other cancers; and (4) discuss how recently developed tools can be used to address open questions in cancer immunotherapy. We believe detailed investigation of this model cancer will provide insight into tumor immunity that will likely also be applicable to more common cancers without shared tumor antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumya Jani
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Candice D. Church
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Paul Nghiem
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, United States
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14
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Srinivas N, Song L, Lei KC, Gravemeyer J, Furtmann F, Gambichler T, Becker JC, Sriram A. The HDAC inhibitor domatinostat induces type I interferon α in Merkel cell carcinoma by HES1 repression. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04733-y. [PMID: 37071208 PMCID: PMC10374800 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04733-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Class I selective histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have been previously demonstrated to not only increase major histocompatibility complex class I surface expression in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cells by restoring the antigen processing and presentation machinery, but also exert anti-tumoral effect by inducing apoptosis. Both phenomena could be due to induction of type I interferons (IFN), as has been described for HDACi. However, the mechanism of IFN induction under HDACi is not fully understood because the expression of IFNs is regulated by both activating and inhibitory signaling pathways. Our own preliminary observations suggest that this may be caused by suppression of HES1. METHODS The effect of the class I selective HDACi domatinostat and IFNα on cell viability and the apoptosis of MCPyV-positive (WaGa, MKL-1) and -negative (UM-MCC 34) MCC cell lines, as well as, primary fibroblasts were assessed by colorimetric methods or measuring mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular caspase-3/7, respectively. Next, the impact of domatinostat on IFNA and HES1 mRNA expression was measured by RT-qPCR; intracellular IFNα production was detected by flow cytometry. To confirm that the expression of IFNα induced by HDACi was due to the suppression of HES1, it was silenced by RNA interference and then mRNA expression of IFNA and IFN-stimulated genes was assessed. RESULTS Our studies show that the previously reported reduction in viability of MCC cell lines after inhibition of HDAC by domatinostat is accompanied by an increase in IFNα expression, both of mRNA and at the protein level. We confirmed that treatment of MCC cells with external IFNα inhibited their proliferation and induced apoptosis. Re-analysis of existing single-cell RNA sequencing data indicated that induction of IFNα by domatinostat occurs through repression of HES1, a transcriptional inhibitor of IFNA; this was confirmed by RT-qPCR. Finally, siRNA-mediated silencing of HES1 in the MCC cell line WaGa not only increased mRNA expression of IFNA and IFN-stimulated genes but also decreased cell viability. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that the direct anti-tumor effect of HDACi domatinostat on MCC cells is at least in part mediated via decreased HES1 expression allowing the induction of IFNα, which in turn causes apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Srinivas
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lina Song
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kuan Cheok Lei
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Gravemeyer
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frauke Furtmann
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thilo Gambichler
- Skin Cancer Center, Department of Dermatology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Ashwin Sriram
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Medicine Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Pagliuca S, Gurnari C, Hercus C, Hergalant S, Hong S, Dhuyser A, D'Aveni M, Aarnink A, Rubio MT, Feugier P, Ferraro F, Carraway HE, Sobecks R, Hamilton BK, Majhail NS, Visconte V, Maciejewski JP. Leukemia relapse via genetic immune escape after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2773498. [PMID: 37066269 PMCID: PMC10104200 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2773498/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) reactions are responsible for the effectiveness of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation as a treatment modality for myeloid neoplasia, whereby donor T- effector cells recognize leukemia neoantigens. However, a substantial fraction of patients experience relapses because of the failure of the immunological responses to control leukemic outgrowth. Here, through a broad immunogenetic study, we demonstrate that germline and somatic reduction of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) heterogeneity enhances the risk of leukemic recurrence. We show that preexistent germline-encoded low evolutionary divergence of class II HLA genotypes constitutes an independent factor associated with disease relapse and that acquisition of clonal somatic defects in HLA alleles may lead to escape from GvL control. Both class I and II HLA genes are targeted by somatic mutations as clonal selection factors potentially impairing cellular immune reactions and response to immunomodulatory strategies. These findings define key molecular modes of post-transplant leukemia escape contributing to relapse.
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16
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HLA and tumour immunology: immune escape, immunotherapy and immune-related adverse events. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:737-747. [PMID: 36662304 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE As molecules responsible for presenting antigens to T lymphocytes, leukocytes antigens (HLAs) play a vital role in cancer immunology. This review aims to provide current understanding of HLAs in tumour immunology. METHODS Perspectives on how HLA alterations may contribute to the immune escape of cancer cells and resistance to immunotherapy, and potential methods to overcome HLA defects were summarized. In addition, we discussed the potential association between HLA and immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which has not been reviewed elsewhere. RESULTS Downregulation, loss of heterogeneity and entire loss of HLAs are responsible for the immune escape of tumour cells. The strategies to overcome the HLA defects can be effective therapies of cancer. Compared with classical HLA-I, non-classical HLA-I molecules, such as HLA-E and HLA-G, appear to be more reliable predictors of prognosis, as they tend to play immunosuppressive roles in antitumor response. Relative diversified or high expression of classical HLA-I are potential predictors of favourable response of immunotherapy. Certain HLA types may be associated to enhanced affinity to self-antigen-mimicked tumour-antigens, thus may positively correlated to irAEs triggered by checkpoint inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS Further studies exploring the relationship between HLAs and cancer may not only lead to the development of novel therapies but also bring about better management of irAEs.
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Hargadon KM. Genetic dysregulation of immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways associated with tumor-intrinsic immune resistance: a molecular basis for combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy for cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:40. [PMID: 36629955 PMCID: PMC11072992 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04689-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Since the turn of the century, advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment of cancer. Although these approaches have far outperformed traditional therapies in various clinical settings, both remain plagued by mechanisms of innate and acquired resistance that limit therapeutic efficacy in many patients. With a focus on tumor-intrinsic resistance to immunotherapy, this review highlights our current understanding of the immunologic and oncogenic pathways whose genetic dysregulation in cancer cells enables immune escape. Emphasis is placed on genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic aberrations that influence the activity of these pathways in the context of immune resistance. Specifically, the role of pathways that govern interferon signaling, antigen processing and presentation, and immunologic cell death as determinants of tumor immune susceptibility are discussed. Likewise, mechanisms of tumor immune resistance mediated by dysregulated RAS-MAPK, WNT, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, and cell cycle pathways are described. Finally, this review highlights the ways in which recent insight into genetic dysregulation of these immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways is informing the design of combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy regimens that aim to restore immune susceptibility of cancer cells by overcoming resistance mechanisms that often limit the success of monotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian M Hargadon
- Hargadon Laboratory, Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, VA, 23943, USA.
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18
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Duarte‐Bateman D, Shen A, Bullock T, Sadeghi P, Escandón JM, Dedkova E, Gastman BR. Best practices in surgical and nonsurgical management of head and neck Merkel cell carcinoma: An update. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:101-112. [PMID: 36367533 PMCID: PMC10098483 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, highly aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. Controversy exists regarding optimal management of MCC as high-quality randomized studies and clinical trials are limited, and physicians are bound to interpret highly heterogeneous, retrospective literature in their clinical practice. Furthermore, the rising incidence and notably poor prognosis of MCC urges the establishment of best practices for optimal management of the primary tumor and its metastases. Herein, we summarized the relevant evidence and provided an algorithm for decision-making in MCC management based on the latest 2021 National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. Additionally, we report current active MCC clinical trials in the United States. The initial management of MCC is dependent upon the pathology of the primary tumor and presence of metastatic disease. Patients with no clinical evidence of regional lymph node involvement generally require sentinel node biopsy (SLNB) while clinically node-positive patients should undergo fine needle aspiration (FNA) or core biopsy and full imaging workup. If SLNB or FNA/core biopsy are positive, a multidisciplinary team should be assembled to discuss if additional node dissection or adjuvant therapy is necessary. Wide local excision is optimal for primary tumor management and SLNB remains the preferred staging and predictive tool in MCC. The management of MCC has progressively improved in the last decade, particularly due to the establishment of immunotherapy as a new treatment option in advanced MCC. Ongoing trials and prospective studies are needed to further establish the best practices for MCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Duarte‐Bateman
- Lerner Research InstituteCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Plastic SurgeryCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Alan Shen
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Taylor Bullock
- Department of DermatologyCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Payam Sadeghi
- Department of Plastic SurgeryCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Joseph M. Escandón
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial HospitalUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Eliska Dedkova
- Lerner Research InstituteCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Brian R. Gastman
- Lerner Research InstituteCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Plastic SurgeryCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
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19
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Loss of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I, CD8 + Tumor-infiltrating Lymphocytes, and PD-L1 Expression in Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma. Am J Surg Pathol 2023; 47:124-130. [PMID: 36221308 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC), a chemoresistant ovarian cancer, shows a modest response to anti-programmed death-1/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) therapies. The effects of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies rely on cytotoxic T-cell response, which is triggered by antigen presentation mediated by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. The loss of MHC class I with simultaneous PD-L1 expression has been noted in several cancer types; however, these findings and their prognostic value have rarely been evaluated in OCCC. We collected data from 76 patients with OCCC for clinicopathologic analysis. Loss of MHC class I expression was seen in 44.7% of the cases including 39.3% to 47.4% of the PD-L1 + cases and was associated with fewer CD8 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). PD-L1 positivity was associated with a higher number of CD8 + TILs. Cox proportional hazard models showed that high (≥50/mm 2 ) CD8 + TILs was associated with shorter disease-specific survival (hazard ratio [HR]=3.447, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.222-9.720, P =0.019) and overall survival (HR=3.053, 95% CI: 1.105-8.43, P =0.031). PD-L1 positivity using Combined Positive Score was associated with shorter progression-free survival (HR=3.246, 95% CI: 1.435-7.339, P =0.005), disease-specific survival (HR=4.124, 95% CI: 1.403-12.116, P =0.010), and overall survival (HR=4.489, 95% CI: 1.553-12.972, P =0.006). Loss of MHC class I may contribute to immune evasion and resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies in OCCC, and CD8 + TILs and PD-L1 positivity using Combined Positive Score may have a negative prognostic value.
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20
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Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Is Affected by Deregulations in the Antigen Presentation Machinery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2022; 12:jcm12010329. [PMID: 36615128 PMCID: PMC9821706 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) targeting programmed death 1 (PD-1), its ligand (PD-L1), or cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) have shown promising results against multiple cancers, where they reactivate exhausted T cells primed to eliminate tumor cells. ICI therapies have been particularly successful in hypermutated cancers infiltrated with lymphocytes. However, resistance may appear in tumors evading the immune system through alternative mechanisms than the PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA-4 pathways. A systematic pan-cancer literature search was conducted to examine the association between alternative immune evasion mechanisms via the antigen presentation machinery (APM) and resistance towards ICI treatments targeting PD-1 (pembrolizumab and nivolumab), PD-L1 (durvalumab, avelumab, and atezolizumab), and CTLA-4 (ipilimumab). The APM proteins included the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I, its subunit beta-2 microglobulin (B2M), the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) 1, TAP2, and the NOD-like receptor family CARD domain containing 5 (NLRC5). In total, 18 cohort studies (including 21 original study cohorts) containing 966 eligible patients and 9 case studies including 12 patients were reviewed. Defects in the APM significantly predicted poor clinical benefit with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.39 (95% CI 0.24−0.63, p < 0.001). The effect was non-significant, when considering complete and partial responses only (OR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.18−1.47, p = 0.216). In summary, the APM contains important targets for tumorigenic alterations which may explain insensitivity towards ICI therapy.
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21
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Seyhan AA, Carini C. Insights and Strategies of Melanoma Immunotherapy: Predictive Biomarkers of Response and Resistance and Strategies to Improve Response Rates. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010041. [PMID: 36613491 PMCID: PMC9820306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent successes and durable responses with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), many cancer patients, including those with melanoma, do not derive long-term benefits from ICI therapies. The lack of predictive biomarkers to stratify patients to targeted treatments has been the driver of primary treatment failure and represents an unmet medical need in melanoma and other cancers. Understanding genomic correlations with response and resistance to ICI will enhance cancer patients' benefits. Building on insights into interplay with the complex tumor microenvironment (TME), the ultimate goal should be assessing how the tumor 'instructs' the local immune system to create its privileged niche with a focus on genomic reprogramming within the TME. It is hypothesized that this genomic reprogramming determines the response to ICI. Furthermore, emerging genomic signatures of ICI response, including those related to neoantigens, antigen presentation, DNA repair, and oncogenic pathways, are gaining momentum. In addition, emerging data suggest a role for checkpoint regulators, T cell functionality, chromatin modifiers, and copy-number alterations in mediating the selective response to ICI. As such, efforts to contextualize genomic correlations with response into a more insightful understanding of tumor immune biology will help the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies to overcome ICI resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila A. Seyhan
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudio Carini
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, New Hunt’s House, Guy’s Campus, King’s College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
- Biomarkers Consortium, Foundation of the National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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22
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Cornel AM, Dunnebach E, Hofman DA, Das S, Sengupta S, van den Ham F, Wienke J, Strijker JGM, van den Beemt DAMH, Essing AHW, Koopmans B, Engels SAG, Lo Presti V, Szanto CS, George RE, Molenaar JJ, van Heesch S, Dierselhuis MP, Nierkens S. Epigenetic modulation of neuroblastoma enhances T cell and NK cell immunogenicity by inducing a tumor-cell lineage switch. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005002. [PMID: 36521927 PMCID: PMC9756225 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy in high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NBL) does not live up to its full potential due to inadequate (adaptive) immune engagement caused by the extensive immunomodulatory capacity of HR-NBL. We aimed to tackle one of the most notable immunomodulatory processes in neuroblastoma (NBL), absence of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) surface expression, a process greatly limiting cytotoxic T cell engagement. We and others have previously shown that MHC-I expression can be induced by cytokine-driven immune modulation. Here, we aimed to identify tolerable pharmacological repurposing strategies to upregulate MHC-I expression and therewith enhance T cell immunogenicity in NBL. METHODS Drug repurposing libraries were screened to identify compounds enhancing MHC-I surface expression in NBL cells using high-throughput flow cytometry analyses optimized for adherent cells. The effect of positive hits was confirmed in a panel of NBL cell lines and patient-derived organoids. Compound-treated NBL cell lines and organoids were cocultured with preferentially expressed antigen of melanoma (PRAME)-reactive tumor-specific T cells and healthy-donor natural killer (NK) cells to determine the in vitro effect on T cell and NK cell cytotoxicity. Additional immunomodulatory effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) were identified by transcriptome and translatome analysis of treated organoids. RESULTS Drug library screening revealed MHC-I upregulation by inhibitor of apoptosis inhibitor (IAPi)- and HDACi drug classes. The effect of IAPi was limited due to repression of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) pathway activity in NBL, while the MHC-I-modulating effect of HDACi was widely translatable to a panel of NBL cell lines and patient-derived organoids. Pretreatment of NBL cells with the HDACi entinostat enhanced the cytotoxic capacity of tumor-specific T cells against NBL in vitro, which coincided with increased expression of additional players regulating T cell cytotoxicity (eg, TAP1/2 and immunoproteasome subunits). Moreover, MICA and MICB, important in NK cell cytotoxicity, were also increased by entinostat exposure. Intriguingly, this increase in immunogenicity was accompanied by a shift toward a more mesenchymal NBL cell lineage. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates the potential of combining (immuno)therapy with HDACi to enhance both T cell-driven and NKcell-driven immune responses in patients with HR-NBL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelisa M Cornel
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ester Dunnebach
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Damon A Hofman
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanjukta Das
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Satyaki Sengupta
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Femke van den Ham
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Wienke
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Denise A M H van den Beemt
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke H W Essing
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bianca Koopmans
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sem A G Engels
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vania Lo Presti
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Celina S Szanto
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rani E George
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jan J Molenaar
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - S Nierkens
- Prinses Maxima Centrum voor Kinderoncologie, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Center for Translational Immunology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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23
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Ouyang K, Zheng DX, Agak GW. T-Cell Mediated Immunity in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246058. [PMID: 36551547 PMCID: PMC9775569 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and frequently lethal skin cancer with neuroendocrine characteristics. MCC can originate from either the presence of MCC polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA or chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure that can cause DNA mutations. MCC is predominant in sun-exposed regions of the body and can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Older, light-skinned individuals with a history of significant sun exposure are at the highest risk. Previous studies have shown that tumors containing a high number of tumor-infiltrating T-cells have favorable survival, even in the absence of MCPyV DNA, suggesting that MCPyV infection enhances T-cell infiltration. However, other factors may also play a role in the host antitumor response. Herein, we review the impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly the CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T-cell (Tregs) responses on the course of MCC, including their role in initiating MCPyV-specific immune responses. Furthermore, potential research avenues related to T-cell biology in MCC, as well as relevant immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Ouyang
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - David X. Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George W. Agak
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence:
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24
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Kim Y, Park K, Kim YJ, Shin SW, Kim YJ, Choi C, Noh JM. Immunomodulation of HDAC Inhibitor Entinostat Potentiates the Anticancer Effects of Radiation and PD-1 Blockade in the Murine Lewis Lung Carcinoma Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415539. [PMID: 36555180 PMCID: PMC9779092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy has proven to be effective in lung cancer treatment, it may not be sufficient to fully activate the antitumor immune response. Here, we investigated whether entinostat, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, could improve the efficacy of radiotherapy and anti-PD-1 in a murine syngeneic LL/2 tumor model. A total of 12 Gy of X-rays administered in two fractions significantly delayed tumor growth in mice, which was further enhanced by oral entinostat administration. Flow cytometry-aided immune cell profiling revealed that entinostat increased radiation-induced infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and CD8+ T cells with decreased regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Transcriptomics-based immune phenotype prediction showed that entinostat potentiated radiation-activated pathways, such as JAK/STAT3/interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and PD-1/PD-L1 signaling. Entinostat augmented the antitumor efficacy of radiation and anti-PD-1, which may be related to an increase in IFN-γ-producing CD8+ T-cells with a decrease in Treg cells. Comparative transcriptomic profiling predicted that entinostat increased the number of dendritic cells, B cells, and T cells in tumors treated with radiation and anti-PD-1 by inducing MHC-II genes. In conclusion, our findings provided insights into how entinostat improves the efficacy of ionizing radiation plus anti-PD-1 therapy and offered clues for developing new strategies for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeeun Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyunghee Park
- Samsung Genome Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Jeong Kim
- Samsung Genome Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Won Shin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Joo Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Changhoon Choi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (J.M.N.)
| | - Jae Myoung Noh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (J.M.N.)
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25
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Kirtane K, St. John M, Fuentes-Bayne H, Patel SP, Mardiros A, Xu H, Ng EW, Go WY, Wong DJ, Sunwoo JB, Welch JS. Genomic Immune Evasion: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Opportunities in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247259. [PMID: 36555876 PMCID: PMC9781632 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247259] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCCs) represent a diverse group of tumors emerging within different mucosal surfaces of the oral cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx. HNSCCs share common clinical risk factors and genomic features, including smoking, alcohol, age, male sex, aneuploidy, and TP53 mutations. Viral initiating and contributing events are increasingly recognized in HNSCCs. While both Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and human papilloma virus (HPV) are observed, EBV is more frequently associated with nasopharyngeal cancers whereas HPV is associated with oropharyngeal cancers. HNSCCs are associated with high tumor mutational burden and loss of tumor suppressor gene function, especially in TP53 and X-linked genes. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that HNSCCs are subject to immunologic surveillance and immune-induced evolutionary pressure that correlate with negative clinical outcomes. This review will discuss genomic mechanisms related to immune-mediated pressures and propose prognostic and therapeutic implications of detectable immune escape mechanisms that drive tumorigenesis and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maie St. John
- Otolaryngology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | | | - Sandip P. Patel
- Moores Cancer Center, UCSD School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Han Xu
- A2 Biotherapeutics, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, USA
| | - Eric W. Ng
- A2 Biotherapeutics, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, USA
| | | | - Deborah J. Wong
- Otolaryngology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - John B. Sunwoo
- Otolaryngology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - John S. Welch
- A2 Biotherapeutics, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, USA
- Correspondence:
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26
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Liu H, Wang D, Yang Z, Li S, Wu H, Xiang J, Kan S, Hao M, Liu W. Regulation of epigenetic modifications in the head and neck tumour microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1050982. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1050982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck tumours are common malignancies that are associated with high mortality. The low rate of early diagnosis and the high rates of local recurrence and distant metastasis are the main reasons for treatment failure. Recent studies have established that the tumour microenvironment (TME) can affect the proliferation and metastasis of head and neck tumours via several mechanisms, including altered expressions of certain genes and cytokines. Increasing evidence has shown that epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, RNA modification, and non-coding RNAs, can regulate the head and neck TME and thereby influence tumour development. Epigenetic modifications can regulate the expression of different genes and subsequently alter the TME to affect the progression of head and neck tumours. In addition, the cell components in the TME are regulated by epigenetic modifications, which, in turn, affect the behaviour of head and neck tumour cells. In this review, we have discussed the functions of epigenetic modifications in the head and neck TME. We have further examined the roles of such modifications in the malignancy and metastasis of head and neck tumours.
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27
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Gartin AK, Frost TC, Cushman CH, Leeper BA, Gokhale PC, DeCaprio JA. Merkel Cell Carcinoma Sensitivity to EZH2 Inhibition Is Mediated by SIX1 Derepression. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:2783-2792.e15. [PMID: 35331717 PMCID: PMC9492898 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Polycomb repressive complex 2 has a critical role in the maintenance of bivalent promoters and is often perturbed in cancer, including neuroendocrine tumors. In this study, we investigated the susceptibility of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, to inhibitors of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 catalytic subunit EZH2. We show that a subset of MCC cell lines is sensitive to EZH2 inhibitor-induced cell viability loss. We find that inhibitor treatment of susceptible cells derepresses the Polycomb repressive complex 2 target SIX1, a transcription factor in the PAX-SIX-EYA-DACH network normally involved in inner ear hair cell development, and that PAX-SIX-EYA-DACH network transcription factors are critical contributors to EZH2 inhibitor-induced MCC cell viability loss. Furthermore, we show the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat slows the growth of MCC xenografts and derepresses SIX1 and its downstream inner ear transcriptional target MYO6 in vivo. We propose that EZH2 inhibition in MCC leads to SIX1 derepression with dysregulation of hearing-related transcriptional programs and growth inhibition. This study provides evidence that MCC tumors may be specifically susceptible to EZH2 inhibitors, while giving mechanistic insight into the transcriptional programs these inhibitors perturb in MCC, and potentially in other neuroendocrine cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley K Gartin
- Program in Virology, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas C Frost
- Program in Virology, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Camille H Cushman
- Program in Virology, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brittaney A Leeper
- Experimental Therapeutics Core, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Robert and Renée Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Prafulla C Gokhale
- Experimental Therapeutics Core, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Robert and Renée Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James A DeCaprio
- Program in Virology, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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28
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Sarode GS, Anand R, Sharma NK, Sarode SC. Hot and cold tumor: Recent developments and perspectives on oral cancer. Oral Oncol 2022; 134:106114. [PMID: 36113398 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2022.106114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gargi S Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune 18, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rahul Anand
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune 18, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Nilesh Kumar Sharma
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth's, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Pune 411033, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Sachin C Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune 18, Maharashtra, India
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29
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Salomé B, Sfakianos JP, Ranti D, Daza J, Bieber C, Charap A, Hammer C, Banchereau R, Farkas AM, Ruan DF, Izadmehr S, Geanon D, Kelly G, de Real RM, Lee B, Beaumont KG, Shroff S, Wang YA, Wang YC, Thin TH, Garcia-Barros M, Hegewisch-Solloa E, Mace EM, Wang L, O'Donnell T, Chowell D, Fernandez-Rodriguez R, Skobe M, Taylor N, Kim-Schulze S, Sebra RP, Palmer D, Clancy-Thompson E, Hammond S, Kamphorst AO, Malmberg KJ, Marcenaro E, Romero P, Brody R, Viard M, Yuki Y, Martin M, Carrington M, Mehrazin R, Wiklund P, Mellman I, Mariathasan S, Zhu J, Galsky MD, Bhardwaj N, Horowitz A. NKG2A and HLA-E define an alternative immune checkpoint axis in bladder cancer. Cancer Cell 2022; 40:1027-1043.e9. [PMID: 36099881 PMCID: PMC9479122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)-blockade immunotherapies have limited efficacy in the treatment of bladder cancer. Here, we show that NKG2A associates with improved survival and responsiveness to PD-L1 blockade immunotherapy in bladder tumors that have high abundance of CD8+ T cells. In bladder tumors, NKG2A is acquired on CD8+ T cells later than PD-1 as well as other well-established immune checkpoints. NKG2A+ PD-1+ CD8+ T cells diverge from classically defined exhausted T cells through their ability to react to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I-deficient tumors using T cell receptor (TCR)-independent innate-like mechanisms. HLA-ABC expression by bladder tumors is progressively diminished as disease progresses, framing the importance of targeting TCR-independent anti-tumor functions. Notably, NKG2A+ CD8+ T cells are inhibited when HLA-E is expressed by tumors and partly restored upon NKG2A blockade in an HLA-E-dependent manner. Overall, our study provides a framework for subsequent clinical trials combining NKG2A blockade with other T cell-targeted immunotherapies, where tumors express higher levels of HLA-E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bérengère Salomé
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - John P Sfakianos
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Daniel Ranti
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jorge Daza
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Christine Bieber
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Andrew Charap
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Christian Hammer
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Romain Banchereau
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Adam M Farkas
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Dan Fu Ruan
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Sudeh Izadmehr
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Daniel Geanon
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Geoffrey Kelly
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ronaldo M de Real
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Brian Lee
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Kristin G Beaumont
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Sanjana Shroff
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Yuanshuo A Wang
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ying-Chih Wang
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Tin Htwe Thin
- Pathology, Molecular and Cell Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Monica Garcia-Barros
- Pathology, Molecular and Cell Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Everardo Hegewisch-Solloa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Emily M Mace
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Sema4, a Mount Sinai Venture, Stamford, CT 06902, USA
| | - Timothy O'Donnell
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Diego Chowell
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ruben Fernandez-Rodriguez
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Mihaela Skobe
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Nicole Taylor
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Seunghee Kim-Schulze
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Robert P Sebra
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Sema4, a Mount Sinai Venture, Stamford, CT 06902, USA; Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Doug Palmer
- AstraZeneca, Oncology R & D Unit, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | | | - Scott Hammond
- AstraZeneca, Oncology R & D Unit, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Alice O Kamphorst
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Karl-Johan Malmberg
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Pedro Romero
- Department of Oncology UNIL CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Brody
- Pathology, Molecular and Cell Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Mathias Viard
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Yuko Yuki
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Maureen Martin
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Mary Carrington
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA; Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Reza Mehrazin
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Peter Wiklund
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ira Mellman
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sanjeev Mariathasan
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Sema4, a Mount Sinai Venture, Stamford, CT 06902, USA
| | - Matthew D Galsky
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Nina Bhardwaj
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Amir Horowitz
- The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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30
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An JH, Koh H, Ahn Y, Kim J, Han AR, Lee JY, Kim SU, Lee JH. Maintenance of Hypoimmunogenic Features via Regulation of Endogenous Antigen Processing and Presentation Machinery. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:936584. [PMID: 36032723 PMCID: PMC9416868 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.936584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Universally acceptable donor cells have been developed to address the unmet need for immunotypically matched materials for regenerative medicine. Since forced expression of hypoimmunogenic genes represses the immune response, we established universal pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) by replacing endogenous β2-microglobulin (β2m) with β2m directly conjugated to human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G, thereby simultaneously suppressing HLA-I expression and the natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune response. These modified human PSCs retained their pluripotency and differentiation capacity; however, surface presentation of HLA-G was absent from subsequently differentiated cells, particularly cells of neural lineages, due to the downregulation of antigen processing and presentation machinery (APM) genes. Induction of APM genes by overexpression of NLR-family CARD domain-containing 5 (NLRC5) or activator subunit of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) heterodimer (RelA) recovered the surface expression of HLA-G and the hypoimmunogenicity of neural cells. Our findings enhance the utility of hypoimmunogenic cells as universal donors and will contribute to the development of off-the-shelf stem-cell therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hyun An
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center (FARRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hyebin Koh
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center (FARRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Yujin Ahn
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center (FARRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- National Primate Research Center (NPRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
| | - A-Reum Han
- CHA Advanced Research Institute, Bundang CHA Hospital, CHA University, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Ji Yoon Lee
- CHA Advanced Research Institute, Bundang CHA Hospital, CHA University, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Sun-Uk Kim
- Futuristic Animal Resource and Research Center (FARRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jong-Hee Lee
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
- National Primate Research Center (NPRC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Jong-Hee Lee,
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31
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Lee PC, Klaeger S, Le PM, Korthauer K, Cheng J, Ananthapadmanabhan V, Frost TC, Stevens JD, Wong AY, Iorgulescu JB, Tarren AY, Chea VA, Carulli IP, Lemvigh CK, Pedersen CB, Gartin AK, Sarkizova S, Wright KT, Li LW, Nomburg J, Li S, Huang T, Liu X, Pomerance L, Doherty LM, Apffel AM, Wallace LJ, Rachimi S, Felt KD, Wolff JO, Witten E, Zhang W, Neuberg D, Lane WJ, Zhang G, Olsen LR, Thakuria M, Rodig SJ, Clauser KR, Starrett GJ, Doench JG, Buhrlage SJ, Carr SA, DeCaprio JA, Wu CJ, Keskin DB. Reversal of viral and epigenetic HLA class I repression in Merkel cell carcinoma. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e151666. [PMID: 35775490 PMCID: PMC9246387 DOI: 10.1172/jci151666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancers avoid immune surveillance through an array of mechanisms, including perturbation of HLA class I antigen presentation. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive, HLA-I-low, neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin often caused by the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Through the characterization of 11 newly generated MCC patient-derived cell lines, we identified transcriptional suppression of several class I antigen presentation genes. To systematically identify regulators of HLA-I loss in MCC, we performed parallel, genome-scale, gain- and loss-of-function screens in a patient-derived MCPyV-positive cell line and identified MYCL and the non-canonical Polycomb repressive complex 1.1 (PRC1.1) as HLA-I repressors. We observed physical interaction of MYCL with the MCPyV small T viral antigen, supporting a mechanism of virally mediated HLA-I suppression. We further identify the PRC1.1 component USP7 as a pharmacologic target to restore HLA-I expression in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick C. Lee
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susan Klaeger
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Phuong M. Le
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keegan Korthauer
- Department of Statistics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jingwei Cheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Varsha Ananthapadmanabhan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas C. Frost
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan D. Stevens
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alan Y.L. Wong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - J. Bryan Iorgulescu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna Y. Tarren
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vipheaviny A. Chea
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isabel P. Carulli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Camilla K. Lemvigh
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Christina B. Pedersen
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ashley K. Gartin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Siranush Sarkizova
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kyle T. Wright
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Letitia W. Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jason Nomburg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shuqiang Li
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Teddy Huang
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xiaoxi Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology and the Linde Program in Cancer Chemical Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology
| | - Lucas Pomerance
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, and
| | - Laura M. Doherty
- Department of Cancer Biology and the Linde Program in Cancer Chemical Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology
- Department of Systems Biology and Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Annie M. Apffel
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luke J. Wallace
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Suzanna Rachimi
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Witten
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wandi Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Donna Neuberg
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William J. Lane
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Guanglan Zhang
- Department of Computer Science, Metropolitan College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lars R. Olsen
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Manisha Thakuria
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Dana-Farber/Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Scott J. Rodig
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Immuno-Oncology and
| | - Karl R. Clauser
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gabriel J. Starrett
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - John G. Doench
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sara J. Buhrlage
- Department of Cancer Biology and the Linde Program in Cancer Chemical Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology
| | - Steven A. Carr
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James A. DeCaprio
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Dana-Farber/Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine J. Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Derin B. Keskin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Computer Science, Metropolitan College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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32
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Merkel cell carcinoma and immune evasion: Merkel cell polyomavirus small T-antigen induced surface changes can be reverted by therapeutic intervention. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:3071-3081.e13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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33
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Chen C, Liu Z, Liu J, Zhang W, Zhou D, Zhang Y. Case Report: Outcome and Adverse Events of Anti-PD-1 Antibody Plus Chidamide for Relapsed/Refractory Sézary Syndrome: Case Series and A Literature Review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:842123. [PMID: 35387123 PMCID: PMC8977601 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.842123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sézary syndrome (SS) is an aggressive leukemic variant of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma with a poor prognosis and survival rate. Existing therapies for relapsed/refractory (R/R) SS have a low response rate with a short duration time. Herein, we presented three cases of R/R SS treated with the anti-PD-1 antibody and chidamide. Case 1 and case 2 showed the potential efficacy of this combination therapy with a long duration time. Case 2 and case 3 both showed that the patients developed acute and transient worsening of erythroderma and pruritus after anti-PD-1 antibody infusion, and this flare reaction was associated with transient decreased leukocytes and lymphocytes in peripheral blood. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the anti-PD-1 antibody combined with chidamide for treatment of R/R SS. This report suggests that the combination therapy may be a new and effective treatment and that further clinical trials are needed to prove it and elucidate the mechanism of this combination therapy and its flare reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaorui Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Daobin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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34
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Gafà R, Touzé A, Durand MA, Martini F, Rotondo JC. The Role of Histone Post-Translational Modifications in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:832047. [PMID: 35350569 PMCID: PMC8957841 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.832047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive form of non–melanoma skin cancer whose 5-year survival rate is 63%. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a small DNA tumor virus, is the etiological agent of MCC. Although representing a small proportion of MCC cases, MCPyV-negative MCCs have also been identified. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, including histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) in MCC, have been only partially determined. This review aims to describe the most recent progress on PTMs and their regulative factors in the context of MCC onset/development, providing an overview of current findings on both MCC subtypes. An outline of current knowledge on the potential employment of PTMs and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic markers, as well as novel treatment strategies targeting the reversibility of PTMs for MCC therapy is provided. Recent research shows that PTMs are emerging as important epigenetic players involved in MCC onset/development, and therefore may show a potential clinical significance. Deeper and integrated knowledge of currently known PTM dysregulations is of paramount importance in order to understand the molecular basis of MCC and improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic options for this deadly tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antoine Touzé
- ISP "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Marie-Alice Durand
- ISP "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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35
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Harms PW, Verhaegen ME, Vo JN, Tien JC, Pratt D, Su F, Dhanasekaran SM, Cao X, Mangelberger D, VanGoor J, Choi JE, Ma VT, Dlugosz AA, Chinnaiyan AM. Viral Status Predicts the Patterns of Genome Methylation and Decitabine Response in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:641-652. [PMID: 34474081 PMCID: PMC8860850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.07.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that is classified as Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive (virus positive [VP]) or Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative (virus negative [VN]). Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, can alter gene expression and influence cancer progression. However, patterns of DNA methylation and the therapeutic efficacy of hypomethylating agents have not been fully explored in MCC. We characterized genome-wide DNA methylation in 16 MCC cell lines from both molecular subclasses in comparison with other cancer types and found that the overall profile of MCC is similar to that of small-cell lung carcinoma. Comparison of VP MCC with VN MCC revealed 2,260 differentially methylated positions. The hypomethylating agent decitabine upregulated the expression of antigen-presenting machinery in MCC cell lines and stimulated membrane expression of HLA-A in VP and VN MCC xenograft tumors. Decitabine also induced prominent caspase- and large T antigen‒independent cell death in VP MCC, whereas VN MCC cell lines displayed decreased proliferation without increased cell death. In mouse xenografts, decitabine significantly decreased the size of VP tumors but not that of VN tumors. Our findings indicate that viral status predicts genomic methylation patterns in MCC and that decitabine may be therapeutically effective against MCC through antiproliferative effects, cell death, and increased immune recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul W. Harms
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | | | - Josh N. Vo
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jean C. Tien
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Drew Pratt
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Fengyun Su
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Saravana M. Dhanasekaran
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Doris Mangelberger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Julia VanGoor
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jae Eun Choi
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Vincent T. Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Andrzej A. Dlugosz
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Arul M. Chinnaiyan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Corresponding Author: Arul M. Chinnaiyan, M.D., Ph.D., Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, American Cancer Society Professor, S. P. Hicks Endowed Professor of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1400 E. Medical Center Dr. 5316 CCGC, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0602,
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Sadagopan A, Michelakos T, Boyiadzis G, Ferrone C, Ferrone S. Human Leukocyte Antigen Class I Antigen-Processing Machinery Upregulation by Anticancer Therapies in the Era of Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Review. JAMA Oncol 2022; 8:462-473. [PMID: 34940799 PMCID: PMC8930447 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2021.5970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Although typically impressive, objective responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) occur in only 12.5% of patients with advanced cancer. The majority of patients do not respond due to cell-intrinsic resistance mechanisms, including human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I antigen-processing machinery (APM) defects. The APM defects, which have a negative effect on neoantigen presentation to cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), are present in the majority of malignant tumors. These defects are caused by gene variations in less than 25% of cases and by dysregulated signaling and/or epigenetic changes in most of the remaining cases, making them frequently correctable. This narrative review summarizes the growing clinical evidence that chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and, to a lesser extent, radiotherapy can correct HLA class I APM defects in cancer cells and improve responses to ICIs. OBSERVATIONS Most chemotherapeutics enhance HLA class I APM component expression and function in cancer cells, tumor CTL infiltration, and responses to ICIs in preclinical and clinical models. Despite preclinical evidence, radiotherapy does not appear to upregulate HLA class I expression in patients and does not enhance the efficacy of ICIs in clinical settings. The latter findings underscore the need to optimize the dose and schedule of radiation and timing of ICI administration to maximize their immunogenic synergy. By increasing DNA and chromatin accessibility, epigenetic agents (histone deacetylase inhibitors, DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, and EZH2 inhibitors) enhance HLA class I APM component expression and function in many cancer types, a crucial contributor to their synergy with ICIs in patients. Furthermore, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors and BRAF/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitors are effective at upregulating HLA class I expression in EGFR- and BRAF-variant tumors, respectively; these changes may contribute to the clinical responses induced by these inhibitors in combination with ICIs. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This narrative review summarizes evidence indicating that chemotherapy and targeted therapies are effective at enhancing HLA class I APM component expression and function in cancer cells. The resulting increased immunogenicity and recognition and elimination of cancer cells by cognate CTLs contributes to the antitumor activity of these therapies as well as to their synergy with ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananthan Sadagopan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Theodoros Michelakos
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriella Boyiadzis
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cristina Ferrone
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Soldano Ferrone
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Shalhout SZ, Kaufman HL, Emerick KS, Miller DM. Immunotherapy for Nonmelanoma skin cancer: Facts and Hopes. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:2211-2220. [PMID: 35121622 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-2971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in humans, representing a broad range of cutaneous tumors. Keratinocyte carcinomas, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), are the most common NMSCs. The incidence of BCC and CSCC are steadily increasing due to a progressively aging population, chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and increased awareness with earlier diagnosis. Rarer NMSCs such as Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and cutaneous adnexal carcinomas (CACs) are also on the rise. Although the majority of NMSC tumors are localized at diagnosis and managed effectively with curative surgery and radiation, in rare cases with nodal and distant metastases, systemic therapy is often required. As our understanding of the immunologic characteristics of NMSCs has improved, effective treatment options have expanded with the development of immunotherapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved several immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of locally advanced and metastatic MCC, CSCC, and BCC. We review the emerging role of immunotherapy as the standard of care for several advanced NMSCs not amenable to surgery and/or radiation and underscore the need for considering clinical trials of novel strategies in patients when immunotherapy does not provide durable benefit. Finally, we explore the potential of neoadjuvant and adjuvant immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Z Shalhout
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Howard L Kaufman
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kevin S Emerick
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David M Miller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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38
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Xu Y, Liao W, Luo Q, Yang D, Pan M. Histone Acetylation Regulator-Mediated Acetylation Patterns Define Tumor Malignant Pathways and Tumor Microenvironment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:761046. [PMID: 35145517 PMCID: PMC8821108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.761046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Histone acetylation modification is one of the most common epigenetic methods used to regulate chromatin structure, DNA repair, and gene expression. Existing research has focused on the importance of histone acetylation in regulating tumorigenicity, tumor progression, and tumor microenvironment (TME) but has not explored the potential roles and interactions of histone acetylation regulators in TME cell infiltration, drug sensitivity, and immunotherapy. Methods The mRNA expression and genetic alterations of 36 histone acetylation regulators were analyzed in 1599 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) samples. The unsupervised clustering method was used to identify the histone acetylation patterns. Then, based on their differentially expressed genes (DEGs), an HAscore model was constructed to quantify the histone acetylation patterns and related subtypes of individual samples. Lastly, the relationship between HAscore and transcription background, tumor clinical features, characteristics of TME, drug response, and efficacy of immunotherapy were analyzed. Results We identified three histone acetylation patterns characterized by high, medium, and low HAscore. Patients with HCC in the high HAscore group experienced worse overall survival time, and the cancer-related malignant pathways were more active in the high HAscore group, comparing to the low HAscore group. The high HAscore group was characterized by an immunosuppressive subtype because of the high infiltration of immunosuppressive cells, such as regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Following validation, the HAscore was highly correlated with the sensitivity of anti-tumor drugs; 116 therapeutic agents were found to be associated with it. The HAscore was also correlated with the therapeutic efficacy of the PD-L1 and PD-1 blockade, and the response ratio was significantly higher in the low HAscore group. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first to provide a comprehensive analysis of 36 histone acetylation regulators in HCC. We found close correlations between histone acetylation patterns and tumor malignant pathways and TME. We also analyzed the therapeutic value of the HAscore in targeted therapy and immunotherapy. This work highlights the interactions and potential clinical utility of histone acetylation regulators in treatment of HCC and improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyan Xu
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liao
- The Unit of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The General Surgery Department, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong Luo
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hengyang Hospital, Southern Medical University (Hengyang Central Hospital), Hengyang, China
| | - Dinghua Yang
- The Unit of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The General Surgery Department, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dinghua Yang, ; Mingxin Pan,
| | - Mingxin Pan
- General Surgery Center, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou Clinical Research and Transformation Center for Artificial Liver, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dinghua Yang, ; Mingxin Pan,
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Liu Z, Ren Y, Weng S, Xu H, Li L, Han X. A New Trend in Cancer Treatment: The Combination of Epigenetics and Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:809761. [PMID: 35140720 PMCID: PMC8818678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.809761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immunotherapy has become a hot spot in the treatment of tumors. As an emerging treatment, it solves many problems in traditional cancer treatment and has now become the main method for cancer treatment. Although immunotherapy is promising, most patients do not respond to treatment or develop resistance. Therefore, in order to achieve a better therapeutic effect, combination therapy has emerged. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibition and epigenetic therapy is one such strategy. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the key mechanisms of how epigenetic mechanisms affect cancer immune responses and reveal the key role of epigenetic processes in regulating immune cell function and mediating anti-tumor immunity. In addition, we highlight the outlook of combined epigenetic and immune regimens, particularly the combination of immune checkpoint blockade with epigenetic agents, to address the limitations of immunotherapy alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuqing Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Siyuan Weng
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lifeng Li
- Internet Medical and System Applications of National Engineering Laboratory, Zhengzhou, China
- Medical School, Huanghe Science and Technology University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xinwei Han, ; Lifeng Li,
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xinwei Han, ; Lifeng Li,
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40
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Heppt MV, Wessely A, Hornig E, Kammerbauer C, Graf SA, Besch R, French LE, Matthies A, Kuphal S, Kappelmann-Fenzl M, Bosserhoff AK, Berking C. HDAC2 Is Involved in the Regulation of BRN3A in Melanocytes and Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020849. [PMID: 35055045 PMCID: PMC8778714 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The neural crest transcription factor BRN3A is essential for the proliferation and survival of melanoma cells. It is frequently expressed in melanoma but not in normal melanocytes or benign nevi. The mechanisms underlying the aberrant expression of BRN3A are unknown. Here, we investigated the epigenetic regulation of BRN3A in melanocytes and melanoma cell lines treated with DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), histone acetyltransferase (HAT), and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. DNMT and HAT inhibition did not significantly alter BRN3A expression levels, whereas panHDAC inhibition by trichostatin A led to increased expression. Treatment with the isoform-specific HDAC inhibitor mocetinostat, but not with PCI-34051, also increased BRN3A expression levels, suggesting that class I HDACs HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3, and class IV HDAC11, were involved in the regulation of BRN3A expression. Transient silencing of HDACs 1, 2, 3, and 11 by siRNAs revealed that, specifically, HDAC2 inhibition was able to increase BRN3A expression. ChIP-Seq analysis uncovered that HDAC2 inhibition specifically increased H3K27ac levels at a distal enhancer region of the BRN3A gene. Altogether, our data suggest that HDAC2 is a key epigenetic regulator of BRN3A in melanocytes and melanoma cells. These results highlight the importance of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating melanoma oncogenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus V. Heppt
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.W.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-9131-85-35747
| | - Anja Wessely
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.W.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eva Hornig
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; (E.H.); (C.K.); (S.A.G.); (R.B.); (L.E.F.)
| | - Claudia Kammerbauer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; (E.H.); (C.K.); (S.A.G.); (R.B.); (L.E.F.)
| | - Saskia A. Graf
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; (E.H.); (C.K.); (S.A.G.); (R.B.); (L.E.F.)
| | - Robert Besch
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; (E.H.); (C.K.); (S.A.G.); (R.B.); (L.E.F.)
| | - Lars E. French
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany; (E.H.); (C.K.); (S.A.G.); (R.B.); (L.E.F.)
| | - Alexander Matthies
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.M.); (S.K.); (A.K.B.)
| | - Silke Kuphal
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.M.); (S.K.); (A.K.B.)
| | | | - Anja K. Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.M.); (S.K.); (A.K.B.)
| | - Carola Berking
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.W.); (C.B.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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HDAC Inhibition to Prime Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010066. [PMID: 35008230 PMCID: PMC8750966 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has made a breakthrough in medical oncology with the approval of several immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical routine, improving overall survival of advanced cancer patients with refractory disease. However only a minority of patients experience a durable response with these agents, which has led to the development of combination strategies and novel immunotherapy drugs to further counteract tumor immune escape. Epigenetic regulations can be altered in oncogenesis, favoring tumor progression. The development of epidrugs has allowed targeting successfully these altered epigenetic patterns in lymphoma and leukemia patients. It has been recently shown that epigenetic alterations can also play a key role in tumor immune escape. Epidrugs, like HDAC inhibitors, can prime the anti-tumor immune response, therefore constituting interesting partners to develop combination strategies with immunotherapy agents. In this review, we will discuss epigenetic regulations involved in oncogenesis and immune escape and describe the clinical development of combining HDAC inhibitors with immunotherapies.
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Sauerer T, Lischer C, Weich A, Berking C, Vera J, Dörrie J. Single-Molecule RNA Sequencing Reveals IFNγ-Induced Differential Expression of Immune Escape Genes in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Positive MCC Cell Lines. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:785662. [PMID: 35003017 PMCID: PMC8727593 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.785662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer, which is mainly caused by genomic integration of the Merkel cell polyomavirus and subsequent expression of a truncated form of its large T antigen. The resulting primary tumor is known to be immunogenic and under constant pressure to escape immune surveillance. Because interferon gamma (IFNγ), a key player of immune response, is secreted by many immune effector cells and has been shown to exert both anti-tumoral and pro-tumoral effects, we studied the transcriptomic response of MCC cells to IFNγ. In particular, immune modulatory effects that may help the tumor evade immune surveillance were of high interest to our investigation. The effect of IFNγ treatment on the transcriptomic program of three MCC cell lines (WaGa, MKL-1, and MKL-2) was analyzed using single-molecule sequencing via the Oxford Nanopore platform. A significant differential expression of several genes was detected across all three cell lines. Subsequent pathway analysis and manual annotation showed a clear upregulation of genes involved in the immune escape of tumor due to IFNγ treatment. The analysis of selected genes on protein level underlined our sequencing results. These findings contribute to a better understanding of immune escape of MCC and may help in clinical treatment of MCC patients. Furthermore, we demonstrate that single-molecule sequencing can be used to assess characteristics of large eukaryotic transcriptomes and thus contribute to a broader access to sequencing data in the community due to its low cost of entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Sauerer
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Hautklinik, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christopher Lischer
- Systems Tumor Immunology, Hautklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Adrian Weich
- Systems Tumor Immunology, Hautklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carola Berking
- Hautklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julio Vera
- Systems Tumor Immunology, Hautklinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- RNA-based Immunotherapy, Hautklinik, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg, Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Maggs L, Sadagopan A, Moghaddam AS, Ferrone S. HLA class I antigen processing machinery defects in antitumor immunity and immunotherapy. Trends Cancer 2021; 7:1089-1101. [PMID: 34489208 PMCID: PMC8651070 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I antigen-processing machinery (APM) plays a crucial role in the synthesis and expression of HLA class I tumor antigen-derived peptide complexes; the latter mediate the recognition and elimination of malignant cells by cognate T cells. Defects in HLA class I APM component expression and/or function are frequently found in cancer cells, providing them with an immune escape mechanism that has relevance in the clinical course of the disease and in the response to T-cell-based immunotherapy. The majority of HLA class I APM defects (>75%) are caused by epigenetic mechanisms or dysregulated signaling and therefore can be corrected by strategies that counteract the underlying mechanisms. Their application in oncology is likely to improve responses to T-cell-based immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Maggs
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ananthan Sadagopan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ali Sanjari Moghaddam
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Soldano Ferrone
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Chen C, Zhang W, Zhou D, Zhang Y. Sintilimab and Chidamide for Refractory Transformed Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report and A Literature Review. Front Oncol 2021; 11:757403. [PMID: 34820328 PMCID: PMC8606549 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.757403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) transformed diffused large B cell lymphoma (tDLBCL) have a poor prognosis and a low survival rate. In addition, no standard therapy has yet been established for R/R tDLBCL. Herein we presented a single case of a patient with R/R tDLBCL who was successfully treated with sintilimab and chidamide. The patient was a 71-year-old man with pulmonary mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. He did not receive any treatment until tDLBCL was confirmed 2 years later. The tDLBCL was primary refractory to R2-CHOP, R2-MTX, and Gemox regimens. However, the patient achieved sustained complete remission after the combination therapy of sintilimab and chidamide. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of sintilimab combined with chidamide for the treatment of R/R tDLBCL, which opens up new therapeutic possibilities for this new combination therapy in future prospective clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), Beijing, China
| | - Daobin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), Beijing, China
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45
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Epigenetic Dysregulations in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Driven Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111464. [PMID: 34768895 PMCID: PMC8584046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA virus with oncogenic potential. MCPyV is the causative agent of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive tumor of the skin. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone posttranslational modifications (HPTMs), DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) regulation on MCPyV-driven MCC has recently been highlighted. In this review, we aim to describe and discuss the latest insights into HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA regulation, as well as their regulative factors in the context of MCPyV-driven MCC, to provide an overview of current findings on how MCPyV is involved in the dysregulation of these epigenetic processes. The current state of the art is also described as far as potentially using epigenetic dysregulations and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic tools is concerned, in addition to targets for MCPyV-driven MCC therapy. Growing evidence suggests that the dysregulation of HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA pathways plays a role in MCPyV-driven MCC etiopathogenesis, which, therefore, may potentially be clinically significant for this deadly tumor. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms and related factors may improve diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy for MCPyV-driven MCC.
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46
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Heumann T, Azad N. Next-generation immunotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: navigating pathways of immune resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:837-862. [PMID: 34591243 PMCID: PMC9804001 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09981-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
To date, the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has proven largely ineffective in patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. A combination of low tumor antigenicity, deficits in immune activation along with an exclusive and suppressive tumor microenvironment result in resistance to host defensives. However, a deepening understanding of these immune escape and suppressive mechanisms has led to the discovery of novel molecular targets and treatment strategies that may hold the key to a long-awaited therapeutic breakthrough. In this review, we describe the tumor-intrinsic and microenvironmental barriers to modern immunotherapy, examine novel immune-based and targeted modalities, summarize relevant pre-clinical findings and human experience, and, finally, discuss novel synergistic approaches to overcome immune-resistance in pancreatic cancer. Beyond checkpoint inhibition, immune agonists and anti-tumor vaccines represent promising strategies to stimulate host response via activation and expansion of anti-tumor immune effectors. Off-the-shelf natural killer cell therapies may offer an effective method for bypassing downregulated tumor antigen presentation. In parallel with this, sophisticated targeting of crosstalk between tumor and tumor-associated immune cells may lead to enhanced immune infiltration and survival of anti-tumor lymphocytes. A future multimodal treatment strategy involving immune priming/activation, tumor microenvironment reprogramming, and immune checkpoint blockade may help transform pancreatic cancer into an immunogenic tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thatcher Heumann
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nilofer Azad
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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47
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Gujar H, Mehta A, Li HT, Tsai YC, Qiu X, Weisenberger DJ, Jasiulionis MG, In GK, Liang G. Characterizing DNA methylation signatures and their potential functional roles in Merkel cell carcinoma. Genome Med 2021; 13:130. [PMID: 34399838 PMCID: PMC8365948 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-021-00946-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer with limited treatment possibilities. Merkel cell tumors display with neuroendocrine features and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) infection in the majority (80%) of patients. Although loss of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) has been shown during MCC tumorigenesis, epigenetic dysregulation has largely been overlooked. METHODS We conducted global DNA methylation profiling of clinically annotated MCC primary tumors, metastatic skin tumors, metastatic lymph node tumors, paired normal tissues, and two human MCC cell lines using the Illumina Infinium EPIC DNA methylation BeadArray platform. RESULTS Significant differential DNA methylation patterns across the genome are revealed between the four tissue types, as well as based on MCPyV status. Furthermore, 964 genes directly regulated by promoter or gene body DNA methylation were identified with high enrichment in neuro-related pathways. Finally, our findings suggest that loss of H3K27me3 occupancy in MCC is attributed to KDM6B and EZHIP overexpression as a consequence of promoter DNA hypomethylation. CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated specific DNA methylation patterns for primary MCC tumors, metastatic MCCs, and adjacent-normal tissues. We have also identified DNA methylation markers that not only show potential diagnostic or prognostic utility in MCC management, but also correlate with MCC tumorigenesis, MCPyV expression, neuroendocrine features, and H3K27me3 status. The identification of DNA methylation alterations in MCC supports the need for further studies to understand the clinical implications of epigenetic dysregulation and potential therapeutic targets in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Gujar
- Department of Urology, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Arjun Mehta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Hong-Tao Li
- Department of Urology, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Yvonne C. Tsai
- Department of Urology, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Xiangning Qiu
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Daniel J. Weisenberger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Miriam Galvonas Jasiulionis
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669 5 andar, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP 04039032 Brazil
| | - Gino K. In
- Department of Dermatology, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Gangning Liang
- Department of Urology, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA
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48
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T-Cell Responses in Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Implications for Improved Immune Checkpoint Blockade and Other Therapeutic Options. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168679. [PMID: 34445385 PMCID: PMC8395396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer with rising incidence and high mortality. Approximately 80% of the cases are caused by the human Merkel cell polyomavirus, while the remaining 20% are induced by UV light leading to mutations. The standard treatment of metastatic MCC is the use of anti-PD-1/-PD-L1-immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) such as Pembrolizumab or Avelumab, which in comparison with conventional chemotherapy show better overall response rates and longer duration of responses in patients. Nevertheless, 50% of the patients do not respond or develop ICI-induced, immune-related adverse events (irAEs), due to diverse mechanisms, such as down-regulation of MHC complexes or the induction of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Other immunotherapeutic options such as cytokines and pro-inflammatory agents or the use of therapeutic vaccination offer great ameliorations to ICI. Cytotoxic T-cells play a major role in the effectiveness of ICI, and tumour-infiltrating CD8+ T-cells and their phenotype contribute to the clinical outcome. This literature review presents a summary of current and future checkpoint inhibitor therapies in MCC and demonstrates alternative therapeutic options. Moreover, the importance of T-cell responses and their beneficial role in MCC treatment is discussed.
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Booth SW, Eyre TA, Whittaker J, Campo L, Wang LM, Soilleux E, Royston D, Rees G, Kesavan M, Hildyard C, Kazmi F, La Thangue N, Kerr D, Middleton MR, Collins GP. A Phase 2a cohort expansion study to assess the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of CXD101 in patients with advanced solid-organ cancer expressing HR23B or lymphoma. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:851. [PMID: 34301221 PMCID: PMC8306282 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08595-w] [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: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This Phase 2a dose expansion study was performed to assess the safety, tolerability and preliminary efficacy of the maximum tolerated dose of the oral histone de-acetylase (HDAC) inhibitor CXD101 in patients with relapsed / refractory lymphoma or advanced solid organ cancers and to assess HR23B protein expression by immunohistochemistry as a biomarker of HDAC inhibitor sensitivity. Methods Patients with advanced solid-organ cancers with high HR23B expression or lymphomas received CXD101 at the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). Key exclusions: corrected QT > 450 ms, neutrophils < 1.5 × 109/L, platelets < 75 × 109/L, ECOG > 1. Baseline HR23B expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results Fifty-one patients enrolled between March 2014 and September 2019, 47 received CXD101 (19 solid-organ cancer, 28 lymphoma). Thirty-four patients received ≥80% RP2D. Baseline characteristics: median age 57.4 years, median prior lines 3, male sex 57%. The most common grade 3–4 adverse events were neutropenia (32%), thrombocytopenia (17%), anaemia (13%), and fatigue (9%) with no deaths on CXD101. No responses were seen in solid-organ cancers, with disease stabilisation in 36% or patients; the overall response rate in lymphoma was 17% with disease stabilisation in 52% of patients. Median progression-free survival was 1.2 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2–5.4) in solid-organ cancers and 2.6 months (95%CI 1.2–5.6) in lymphomas. HR23B status did not predict response. Conclusions CXD101 showed acceptable tolerability with efficacy seen in Hodgkin lymphoma, T-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma. Further studies assessing combination approaches are warranted. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01977638. Registered 07 November 2013. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08595-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W Booth
- Department of Haematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK.
| | - Toby A Eyre
- Department of Haematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Leticia Campo
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lai Mun Wang
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Daniel Royston
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Gabrielle Rees
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Murali Kesavan
- Department of Haematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Catherine Hildyard
- Department of Haematology, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Farasat Kazmi
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nick La Thangue
- Celleron Therapeutics Ltd, Oxford, UK.,Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David Kerr
- Celleron Therapeutics Ltd, Oxford, UK.,Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Graham P Collins
- Department of Haematology, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
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50
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Smith EA, Hill NT, Gelb T, Garman KA, Goncharova EI, Bokesch HR, Kim CK, Wendt KL, Cichewicz RH, Gustafson KR, Brownell I, Henrich CJ. Identification of natural product modulators of Merkel cell carcinoma cell growth and survival. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13597. [PMID: 34193920 PMCID: PMC8245553 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93097-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, but aggressive skin cancer the incidence of which has increased significantly in recent years. The majority of MCCs have incorporated Merkel cell polyomavirus (VP-MCC) while the remainder are virus-negative (VN-MCC). Although a variety of therapeutic options have shown promise in treating MCC, there remains a need for additional therapeutics as well as probes for better understanding MCC. A high-throughput screening campaign was used to assess the ability of > 25,000 synthetic and natural product compounds as well as > 20,000 natural product extracts to affect growth and survival of VN-MCC and VP-MCC cell lines. Sixteen active compounds were identified that have mechanisms of action reported in the literature along with a number of compounds with unknown mechanisms. Screening results with pure compounds suggest a range of potential targets for MCC including DNA damage, inhibition of DNA or protein synthesis, reactive oxygen species, and proteasome inhibition as well as NFκB inhibition while also suggesting the importance of zinc and/or copper binding. Many of the active compounds, particularly some of the natural products, have multiple reported targets suggesting that this strategy might be a particularly fruitful approach. Processing of several active natural product extracts resulted in the identification of additional MCC-active compounds. Based on these results, further investigations focused on natural products sources, particularly of fungal origin, are expected to yield further potentially useful modulators of MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Smith
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Natasha T Hill
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20891, USA
| | - Tara Gelb
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20891, USA
| | - Khalid A Garman
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20891, USA
| | - Ekaterina I Goncharova
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Heidi R Bokesch
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Chang-Kwon Kim
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Karen L Wendt
- Natural Products Discovery Group, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Institute for Natural Products Applications and Research Technologies, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, 73019, USA
| | - Robert H Cichewicz
- Natural Products Discovery Group, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Institute for Natural Products Applications and Research Technologies, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, 73019, USA
| | - Kirk R Gustafson
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Isaac Brownell
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, MD, 20891, USA
| | - Curtis J Henrich
- Molecular Targets Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA.
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA.
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