1
|
Marin MA, Closca RM, Marin A, Rakitovan M, Nicoara A, Poenaru M, Militaru M, Baderca F. Clinical, Epidemiological, Morphological, and Immunohistochemical Aspects of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma-4-Year Retrospective Study in the Western Part of Romania. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:722. [PMID: 38611634 PMCID: PMC11012000 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070722] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is one of the most common malignant tumors in the head and neck region. The carcinogenesis is a complex process stimulated by many factors. Although the etiological factors and pathogenic mechanisms are not elucidated, the genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, and association with latent infection with Epstein-Barr Virus play an important role. The aim of this study was to present the main clinical and epidemiological data, as well as the morphological aspects and the immunohistochemical profile, of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma diagnosed in western Romania. The study was retrospective and included 36 nasopharyngeal carcinomas. The histopathological diagnosis was completed using immunohistochemical reactions for the following antibodies: p63, p53 and p16 protein, cytokeratins (CK) AE1/AE3, CK5, CK7, CK20 and 34βE12, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), leukocyte common antigen (LCA), CD20, CD4, CD8, CD68, CD117, and CD1a. The squamous malignant component of nasopharyngeal carcinoma presented with positivity for cytokeratins AE1/AE3, CK5, 34βE12, and p63. Undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma was positive for EMA in 67% of cases, and 28% of cases showed an immunoreaction for CD117 in the malignant epithelial component. Also, the p53 protein was positive in all the cases. One case of undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma was p16-positive, and two cases were positive for EBV. A peri- and intratumor cellular infiltrate rich in lymphocytes, with a predominance of CD20-positive B lymphocytes, interspersed with T lymphocytes, was observed. The T cells were CD4- and CD8-positive, predominantly intratumoral, and the CD4:CD8 ratio was 1:1 for 75% of the undifferentiated subtype and 89% for differentiated non-keratinized squamous cell carcinoma. All subtypes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma presented with an inflammatory infiltrate with numerous plasma cells, eosinophils, and dendritic cells, presenting as antigen CD1a- and CD68-positive, as well as in CD117-positive mast cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alina Marin
- ENT Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.A.M.); (M.P.)
- ENT Department, Emergency City Hospital, 400139 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Raluca-Maria Closca
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.R.); (F.B.)
- Department of Pathology, Emergency City Hospital, 300254 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Aurel Marin
- ENT Department, Emergency Pediatric Hospital, 400001 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Marina Rakitovan
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.R.); (F.B.)
- Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery Clinic, Emergency City Hospital, 300062 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Adrian Nicoara
- Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery Clinic, Emergency City Hospital, 300062 Timisoara, Romania;
- Discipline of Dentoalveolar Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marioara Poenaru
- ENT Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.A.M.); (M.P.)
- ENT Department, Emergency City Hospital, 300254 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Militaru
- Department of Neuroscience, Discipline of Neurology II, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Flavia Baderca
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes”, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.R.); (F.B.)
- Department of Pathology, Emergency City Hospital, 300254 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu H, Tang L, Li Y, Xie W, Zhang L, Tang H, Xiao T, Yang H, Gu W, Wang H, Chen P. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma: current views on the tumor microenvironment's impact on drug resistance and clinical outcomes. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:20. [PMID: 38254110 PMCID: PMC10802008 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01928-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) exhibits significant variations across different ethnic groups and geographical regions, with Southeast Asia and North Africa being endemic areas. Of note, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is closely associated with almost all of the undifferentiated NPC cases. Over the past three decades, radiation therapy and chemotherapy have formed the cornerstone of NPC treatment. However, recent advancements in immunotherapy have introduced a range of promising approaches for managing NPC. In light of these developments, it has become evident that a deeper understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial. The TME serves a dual function, acting as a promoter of tumorigenesis while also orchestrating immunosuppression, thereby facilitating cancer progression and enabling immune evasion. Consequently, a comprehensive comprehension of the TME and its intricate involvement in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of NPC is imperative for the development of effective anticancer drugs. Moreover, given the complexity of TME and the inter-patient heterogeneity, personalized treatment should be designed to maximize therapeutic efficacy and circumvent drug resistance. This review aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the TME within the context of EBV-induced NPC, with a particular emphasis on its pivotal role in regulating intercellular communication and shaping treatment responses. Additionally, the review offers a concise summary of drug resistance mechanisms and potential strategies for their reversal, specifically in relation to chemoradiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Furthermore, recent advances in clinical trials pertaining to NPC are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huai Liu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Tang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yanxian Li
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Wenji Xie
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tengfei Xiao
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Hongmin Yang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Wangning Gu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Pan Chen
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lv M, Ding Y, Zhang Y, Liu S. Targeting EBV-encoded products: Implications for drug development in EBV-associated diseases. Rev Med Virol 2024; 34:e2487. [PMID: 37905912 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2487] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus, a human gamma-herpesvirus, has a close connection to the pathogenesis of cancers and other diseases, which are a burden for public health worldwide. So far, several drugs or biomolecules have been discovered that can target EBV-encoded products for treatment, such as Silvestrol, affinity toxin, roscovitine, H20, H31, curcumin, thymoquinone, and ribosomal protein L22. These drugs activate or inhibit the function of some biomolecules, affecting subsequent signalling pathways by acting on the products of EBV. These drugs usually target LMP1, LMP2; EBNA1, EBNA2, EBNA3; EBER1, EBER2; Bam-HI A rightward transcript and BHRF1. Additionally, some promising findings in the fields of vaccines, immunological, and cellular therapies have been established. In this review, we mainly summarise the function of drugs mentioned above and unique mechanisms, hoping that we can help giving insight to the design of drugs for the treatment of EBV-associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengwen Lv
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuan Ding
- Department of Special Examination, Qingdao Women & Children Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Shuzhen Liu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang X, Ren H, Li Z, Peng X, Fu J. Combinations of radiotherapy with immunotherapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111094. [PMID: 37871379 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111094] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is currently based on concurrent chemoradiotherapy. The prognosis of early NPC is better, while the prognosis of advanced NPC is poor. Immunotherapy is becoming increasingly commonly employed in clinical practice as a new strategy for treating malignant tumors. It has shown promising results in the treatment of certain malignant tumors, making it a current clinical research hotspot. METHODS This review summarizes the current immunotherapy on NPC, highlighting the application of immunotherapy and radiotherapy in the treatment of NPC. RESULTS X-rays can either increase or suppress anti-tumor immune responses through various pathways and mechanisms. Immune checkpoint inhibitors can usually enhance X-ray-induced anti-tumor immune responses. Detecting the immune checkpoint markers and tumor mutation markers, and the functional status of effector cells in patients can aid in the development of individualized treatment that improves the treatment efficacy with reducing drug resistance and adverse reactions. The development of a multivalent vaccine for NPC will help improve the efficacy of the vaccine. Combining techniques that increase the tumor antigens release, such as radiotherapy and oncolytic virus vaccines, may enhance the ability of the immune response. CONCLUSIONS To shed further light on the application of immunotherapy in NPC, large pooled studies must accumulate sufficient cases with detailed exposure data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanru Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Peng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xu L, Zhang M, Tu D, Lu Z, Lu T, Ma D, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Ma Y, Yan D, Wang X, Sang W. Chidamide Induces Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Lytic Infection and Acts Synergistically with Tenofovir to Eliminate EBV-Positive Burkitt Lymphoma. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 387:288-298. [PMID: 37875309 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.001583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a type of human γ-herpesvirus, and its reactivation plays an important role in the development of EBV-driven Burkitt lymphoma (BL). Despite intensive chemotherapy, the prognosis of relapsed/refractory BL patients remains unfavorable, and a definitive method to completely eliminate latent EBV infection is lacking. Previous studies have demonstrated that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors can induce the transition of EBV from latency to the lytic phase. The lytic activation of EBV can be inhibited by tenofovir, a potent inhibitor of DNA replication. Herein, we explored the antitumor effect and EBV clearance potential of a novel HDAC inhibitor called chidamide, combined with tenofovir, in the treatment of EBV-positive BL. In the study, chidamide exhibited inhibitory activity against HDAC. Moreover, chidamide inhibited BL cell proliferation, arrested cell cycle progression, and induced BL cell apoptosis primarily by regulating the MAPK pathways. Additionally, chidamide promoted the transcription of lytic genes, including BZLF1, BMRF1, and BMLF1 Compared with chidamide alone, the addition of tenofovir further induced growth arrest and apoptosis in EBV-positive BL cells and inhibited the transcriptions of EBV lytic genes induced by chidamide alone. Furthermore, our in vivo data demonstrated that the combination of chidamide and tenofovir had superior tumor-suppressive effects in a mouse model of BL cell tumors. The aforementioned findings confirm the synergistic effect of chidamide combined with tenofovir in inducing growth inhibition and apoptosis in EBV-positive BL cells and provide an effective strategy for eliminating EBV and EBV-associated malignancies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: High levels of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-DNA have consistently been associated with unfavorable progression-free survival and overall survival in EBV-associated lymphomas. Therefore, identifying novel strategies to effectively eradicate tumor cells and eliminate EBV is crucial for lymphoma patients. This study confirmed, for the first time, the synergistic effect of chidamide combined with tenofovir in the treatment of Burkitt lymphoma and the eradication of EBV virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linyan Xu
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dongyun Tu
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Lu
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Tianyi Lu
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dongshen Ma
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuhan Ma
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dongmei Yan
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiangmin Wang
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wei Sang
- 1Blood Diseases Institute (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.), Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; and Departments of Hematology (L.X., M.Z., D.T., Z.L., T.L., Y.Z., S.Z., Y.M., D.Y., X.W., W.S.) and Pathology (D.M.), the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao G, Bu G, Liu G, Kong X, Sun C, Li Z, Dai D, Sun H, Kang Y, Feng G, Zhong Q, Zeng M. mRNA-based Vaccines Targeting the T-cell Epitope-rich Domain of Epstein Barr Virus Latent Proteins Elicit Robust Anti-Tumor Immunity in Mice. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302116. [PMID: 37890462 PMCID: PMC10724410 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with various malignancies and infects >90% of the global population. EBV latent proteins are expressed in numerous EBV-associated cancers and contribute to carcinogenesis, making them critical therapeutic targets for these cancers. Thus, this study aims to develop mRNA-based therapeutic vaccines that express the T-cell-epitope-rich domain of truncated latent proteins of EBV, including truncatedlatent membrane protein 2A (Trunc-LMP2A), truncated EBV nuclear antigen 1 (Trunc-EBNA1), and Trunc-EBNA3A. The vaccines effectively activate both cellular and humoral immunity in mice and show promising results in suppressing tumor progression and improving survival time in tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, it is observed that the truncated forms of the antigens, Trunc-LMP2A, Trunc-EBNA1, and Trunc-EBNA3A, are more effective than full-length antigens in activating antigen-specific immune responses. In summary, the findings demonstrate the effectiveness of mRNA-based therapeutic vaccines targeting the T-cell-epitope-rich domain of EBV latent proteins and providing new treatment options for EBV-associated cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge‐Xin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Guo‐Long Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Gang‐Feng Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Section IIThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University/Yunnan Cancer Hospital519 Kunzhou RoadKunming650118China
| | - Xiang‐Wei Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Cong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Zi‐Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Dan‐Ling Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Hai‐Xia Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Yin‐Feng Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Guo‐Kai Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Qian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| | - Mu‐Sheng Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center for Cancer. MedicineGuangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Diagnosis, and TherapySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
- Guangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhou510060China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wu Y, Zhang X, Liu C, Li Z, Wen Y, Zheng R, Xu C, Tian J, Wei L, Wang J, Yan Q, Zheng X, Ma J. Epstein-Barr virus microRNA miR-BART2-5p accelerates nasopharyngeal carcinoma metastasis by suppressing RNase Ⅲ endonuclease DICER1. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105082. [PMID: 37495108 PMCID: PMC10470218 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105082] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The development and progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is closely associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. NPC is usually asymptomatic until it spreads to other sites, and more than 70% of cases are classified as locally advanced disease at diagnosis. EBV-positive nasopharyngeal cancer tissues express only limited viral latent proteins, but express high levels of the EBV-encoded BamHI-A rightward transcript (BART) miRNA molecules. Here, we report that EBV-miRNA-BART2-5p (BART2-5p) promotes NPC cell invasion and metastasis in vivo and in vitro but has no effect on NPC cell proliferation and apoptosis. In addition, BART2-5p altered the mRNA and miRNA expression profiles of NPC cells. The development of human tumors has been reported to be associated with altered miRNAs expression, and overall miRNAs expression is reduced in many types of tumors. We found that BART2-5p downregulated the expression of several miRNAs that could exert oncogenic functions. Mechanistically, BART2-5p directly targets the RNase III endonuclease DICER1, inhibiting its function of cleaving double-stranded stem-loop RNA into short double-stranded RNA, which in turn causes altered expression of a series of key epithelial-mesenchymal transition molecules, and reverting DICER1 expression can rescue this phenotype. Furthermore, analysis from clinical samples showed a negative correlation between BART2-5p and DICER1 expression. According to our study, high expression of BART2-5p in tissues and plasma of patients with NPC is associated with poor prognosis. Our results suggest that, BART2-5p can accelerate NPC metastasis through modulating miRNA profiles which are mediated by DICER1, implying a novel role of EBV miRNAs in the pathogenesis of NPC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangge Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyue Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Can Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Zhengshuo Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Yuqing Wen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Run Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Chenxiao Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Junrui Tian
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China
| | - Lingyu Wei
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Qun Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Xiang Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China.
| | - Jian Ma
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dasari V, McNeil LK, Beckett K, Solomon M, Ambalathingal G, Thuy TL, Panikkar A, Smith C, Steinbuck MP, Jakubowski A, Seenappa LM, Palmer E, Zhang J, Haqq CM, DeMuth PC, Khanna R. Lymph node targeted multi-epitope subunit vaccine promotes effective immunity to EBV in HLA-expressing mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4371. [PMID: 37553346 PMCID: PMC10409721 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39770-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of a causal link between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis has generated considerable interest in the development of an effective vaccine against EBV. Here we describe a vaccine formulation based on a lymph node targeting Amphiphile vaccine adjuvant, Amphiphile-CpG, admixed with EBV gp350 glycoprotein and an engineered EBV polyepitope protein that includes 20 CD8+ T cell epitopes from EBV latent and lytic antigens. Potent gp350-specific IgG responses are induced in mice with titers >100,000 in Amphiphile-CpG vaccinated mice. Immunization including Amphiphile-CpG also induces high frequencies of polyfunctional gp350-specific CD4+ T cells and EBV-specific CD8+ T cells that are 2-fold greater than soluble CpG and are maintained for >7 months post immunization. This combination of broad humoral and cellular immunity against multiple viral determinants is likely to provide better protection against primary infection and control of latently infected B cells leading to protection against the development of EBV-associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijayendra Dasari
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia.
| | | | - Kirrilee Beckett
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Matthew Solomon
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - George Ambalathingal
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - T Le Thuy
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Archana Panikkar
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Caitlyn Smith
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeff Zhang
- Elicio Therapeutics, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Rajiv Khanna
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, Tumour Immunology Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Huang H, Yao Y, Deng X, Huang Z, Chen Y, Wang Z, Hong H, Huang H, Lin T. Immunotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Current status and prospects (Review). Int J Oncol 2023; 63:97. [PMID: 37417358 PMCID: PMC10367053 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an epithelial tumor located in the nasopharynx and is highly associated with Epstein‑Barr virus (EBV) infection. Although radiotherapy alone can cure ~90% of patients with early‑stage disease, >70% of patients with NPC have locoregionally advanced or metastatic disease at the first diagnosis due to the insidious and aggressive nature of NPC. After comprehensive radiochemotherapy, 20‑30% of patients with advanced NPC still fail treatment, mainly due to recurrence and/or metastasis (R/M). Conventional salvage treatments, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery, are suboptimal and frequently accompanied by severe adverse effects and limited efficacy. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality for R/M NPC. An increasing number of clinical studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of immunotherapy for advanced NPC and have shown considerable progress. In the present review, the rationale for the use of immunotherapy to treat NPC was summarized and the current status, progress and challenges of NPC clinical research on different immunotherapeutic approaches were highlighted, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines, immunomodulators, adoptive cell transfer and EBV‑specific monoclonal antibodies. The comprehensive overview of immunotherapy in NPC may provide insight for clinical practice and future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huageng Huang
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060
| | - Yuyi Yao
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060
| | - Xinyi Deng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120
| | - Zongyao Huang
- Department of Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P.R. China
| | - Yungchang Chen
- Department of Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060
| | - Huangming Hong
- Department of Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P.R. China
| | - He Huang
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060
| | - Tongyu Lin
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060
- Department of Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Khenchouche A, Salem-Bekhit MM, Mansour AA, Alomary MN, Wang X, Alzahrani HA, Hosiny IMA, Taha EI, Shazly GA, Benguerba Y, Houali K. Suppression of Nasopharyngeal and Gastric Tumor Growth in a Mouse Model by Antibodies to Epstein-Barr Virus LMP1 Protein. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1712. [PMID: 37512884 PMCID: PMC10383785 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the antitumor efficacy of anti-LMP1 antibodies in EBV-positive nasopharyngeal and stomach cell lines and xenograft models. The study also examined the NF-κB expression and cell cycle activation of NPC-serum-exosome-associated LMP1. Anti-LMP1 antibody treatment before or during cell implantation prevented tumor growth in nude mice. A small dose of antibodies resulted in complete tumor regression for at least three months after the tumors had grown in size. The consumption of antigen-antibody complexes by tumor cells limited tumor growth. In vitro experiments showed that anti-LMP1 antibodies killed EBV-positive NPC- or GC-derived epithelial cell lines and EBV-positive human B-cell lines but not EBV-negative cell lines. Treatment with anti-LMP1 reduced NF-κB expression in cells. The animal model experiments showed that anti-LMP1 inhibited and prevented NPC- or GC-derived tumor growth. The results suggest that LMP1 antibody immunotherapy could cure nasopharyngeal cancer, EBV-positive gastric carcinoma, and EBV-associated lymphomas. However, further validation of these findings is required through human clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelhalim Khenchouche
- Département de Microbiologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université Ferhat Abbas Sétif 1, Sétif 19000, Algeria
- Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, FRE3011, CNRS, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, Université Claude Bernard Lyon-1, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Mounir M Salem-Bekhit
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahd A Mansour
- Medical Laboratory Science Department, Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 2537, Jeddah 21461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad N Alomary
- Advanced Diagnostic and Therapeutic Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, FRE3011, CNRS, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, Université Claude Bernard Lyon-1, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Hayat Ali Alzahrani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Northern Border University, Arar 73211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim M Al Hosiny
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Ehab I Taha
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gamal A Shazly
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yacine Benguerba
- Laboratoire de Biopharmacie Et Pharmacotechnie (LPBT), Ferhat Abbas Setif 1 University, Setif 19000, Algeria
| | - Karim Houali
- Laboratoire de Virologie Moléculaire, FRE3011, CNRS, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, Université Claude Bernard Lyon-1, 69008 Lyon, France
- Laboratoire de Biochimie Analytique et Biotechnologie (LABAB), Faculté des Sciences Biologiques et des Sciences Agronomiques, Université Mouloud Mammeri, Tizi-Ouzou 15000, Algeria
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang Y, Lyu H, Guo R, Cao X, Feng J, Jin X, Lu W, Zhao M. Epstein‒Barr virus-associated cellular immunotherapy. Cytotherapy 2023:S1465-3249(23)00099-3. [PMID: 37149797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.04.003] [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: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Epstein‒Barr virus (EBV) is a human herpes virus that is saliva-transmissible and universally asymptomatic. It has been confirmed that more than 90% of the population is latently infected with EBV for life. EBV can cause a variety of related cancers, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and Burkitt lymphoma. Currently, many clinical studies have demonstrated that EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and other cell therapies can be safely and effectively transfused to prevent and treat some diseases caused by EBV. This review will mainly focus on discussing EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and will touch on therapeutic EBV vaccines and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy briefly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- First Center Clinic College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Hairong Lyu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruiting Guo
- First Center Clinic College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinping Cao
- First Center Clinic College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Juan Feng
- Tianjin Jizhou District People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenyi Lu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Mingfeng Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li W, Duan X, Chen X, Zhan M, Peng H, Meng Y, Li X, Li XY, Pang G, Dou X. Immunotherapeutic approaches in EBV-associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1079515. [PMID: 36713430 PMCID: PMC9875085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1079515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) was the first tumor virus in humans. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) accounts for approximately 60% of the 200,000 new tumor cases caused by EBV infection worldwide each year. NPC has an insidious onset and is highly malignant, with more than 70% of patients having intermediate to advanced disease at the time of initial diagnosis, and is strongly implicated in epithelial cancers as well as malignant lymphoid and natural killer/T cell lymphomas. Over 90% of patients with confirmed undifferentiated NPC are infected with EBV. In recent decades, much progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms of NPC and developing therapeutic approaches. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the main treatment options for NPC; however, they have a limited efficacy in patients with locally advanced or distant metastatic tumors. Tumor immunotherapy, including vaccination, adoptive cell therapy, and immune checkpoint blockade, represents a promising therapeutic approach for NPC. Significant breakthroughs have recently been made in the application of immunotherapy for patients with recurrent or metastatic NPC (RM-NPC), indicating a broad prospect for NPC immunotherapy. Here, we review important research findings regarding immunotherapy for NPC patients and provide insights for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiaobing Duan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xingxing Chen
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Haichuan Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Ya Meng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xiaobin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Xian-Yang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,Department of R&D, OriCell Therapeutics Co. Ltd, Pudong, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xiaohui Dou, ; Guofu Pang, ; Xian-Yang Li,
| | - Guofu Pang
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Xiaohui Dou, ; Guofu Pang, ; Xian-Yang Li,
| | - Xiaohui Dou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,Health Management Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Xiaohui Dou, ; Guofu Pang, ; Xian-Yang Li,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guo M, Duan X, Peng X, Jin Z, Huang H, Xiao W, Zheng Q, Deng Y, Fan N, Chen K, Song X. A lipid-based LMP2-mRNA vaccine to treat nasopharyngeal carcinoma. NANO RESEARCH 2023; 16:5357-5367. [PMID: 36618068 PMCID: PMC9807982 DOI: 10.1007/s12274-022-5254-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a serious and highly invasive epithelial malignancy that is closely associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Due to the lack of therapeutic vaccines for NPC, we selected EBV latent membrane protein 2 (LMP2) as a preferable targeting antigen to develop a lipid-based LMP2-mRNA (mLMP2) vaccine. Full-length mLMP2 expressing LMP2 was first synthesized using an in vitro transcription method and then encapsulated into (2,3-dioleacyl propyl) trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP)-based cationic liposomes to obtain the mRNA vaccine (LPX-mLMP2). The cell assays showed that the antigen-presenting cells were capable of highly efficient uptake of LPX-mLMP2 and expression of LMP2. LMP2 could subsequently be presented to form the peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC). Furthermore, LPX-mLMP2 could accumulate in the spleen, express antigens, promote the maturation of dendritic cells and stimulate antigen-specific T-cell responses in vivo. It dramatically inhibited the tumor growth of the LMP2-expressing tumor model after three doses of vaccination. Additionally, the proliferation of antigen-specific T cells in the tumor site made a good sign for the promise of mRNA vaccines in virus-induced cancer. Overall, we provided a newly developed antigen-encoding mRNA vaccine with advantages against NPC. We also demonstrated that mRNA vaccines are attractive candidates for cancer immunotherapy. Electronic Supplementary Material Supplementary material (methods of cytotoxicity assay, LMP2 expression, hemolysis test, the results of purity and maturity of BMDCs, LMP2 expression, and evaluation of T cells in lymph nodes and gating strategy for CTLs) is available in the online version of this article at 10.1007/s12274-022-5254-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengran Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Xing Duan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Xingchen Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Zhaohui Jin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Wen Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Yongqi Deng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Na Fan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Kepan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000 China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy of Epstein–Barr Virus-Associated Malignancies. Viruses 2022; 14:v14051017. [PMID: 35632758 PMCID: PMC9146158 DOI: 10.3390/v14051017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) can cause different types of cancer in human beings when the virus infects different cell types with various latent patterns. EBV shapes a distinct and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) to its benefit by influencing and interacting with different components in the TME. Different EBV-associated malignancies adopt similar but slightly specific immunosuppressive mechanisms by encoding different EBV products to escape both innate and adaptive immune responses. Strategies reversing the immunosuppressive TME of EBV-associated malignancies have been under evaluation in clinical practice. As the interactions among EBV, tumor cells, and TME are intricate, in this review, we mainly discuss the epidemiology of EBV, the life cycle of EBV, the cellular and molecular composition of TME, and a landscape of different EBV-associated malignancies and immunotherapy by targeting the TME.
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhu X, Perales-Puchalt A, Wojtak K, Xu Z, Yun K, Bhojnagarwala PS, Bordoloi D, Park DH, Liaw K, Bah MA, Lieberman PM, Gary EN, Patel A, Weiner DB. DNA immunotherapy targeting BARF1 induces potent anti-tumor responses against Epstein-Barr-virus-associated carcinomas. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 24:218-229. [PMID: 35071745 PMCID: PMC8761958 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Latent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is associated with several types of cancer. Several clinical studies have targeted EBV antigens as immune therapeutic targets with limited efficacy of EBV malignancies, suggesting that additional targets might be important. BamHI-A rightward frame 1 (BARF1) is an EBV antigen that is highly expressed in EBV+ nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and EBV-associated gastric carcinoma (EBVaGC). BARF1 antigen can transform human epithelial cells in vivo. BARF1-specific antibodies and cytotoxic T cells were detected in some EBV+ NPC patients. However, BARF1 has not been evaluated as an antigen in the context of therapeutic immunization. Its possible importance in this context is unclear. Here, we developed a synthetic-DNA-based expression cassette as immunotherapy targeting BARF1 (pBARF1). Immunization with pBARF1 induced potent antigen-specific humoral and T cell responses in vivo. Immunization with pBARF1 plasmid impacted tumor progression through the induction of CD8+ T cells in novel BARF1+ carcinoma models. Using an in vivo imaging system, we observed that pBARF1-immunized animals rapidly cleared cancer cells. We demonstrated that pBARF1 can induce antigen-specific immune responses that can impact cancer progression. Further study of this immune target is likely important as part of therapeutic approaches for EBV+ malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xizhou Zhu
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alfredo Perales-Puchalt
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Krzysztof Wojtak
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ziyang Xu
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kun Yun
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Pratik S. Bhojnagarwala
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Devivasha Bordoloi
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel H. Park
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kevin Liaw
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mamadou A. Bah
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Paul M. Lieberman
- Gene Expression and Regulation Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ebony N. Gary
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ami Patel
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David B. Weiner
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Center, The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chakravorty S, Afzali B, Kazemian M. EBV-associated diseases: Current therapeutics and emerging technologies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1059133. [PMID: 36389670 PMCID: PMC9647127 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1059133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
EBV is a prevalent virus, infecting >90% of the world's population. This is an oncogenic virus that causes ~200,000 cancer-related deaths annually. It is, in addition, a significant contributor to the burden of autoimmune diseases. Thus, EBV represents a significant public health burden. Upon infection, EBV remains dormant in host cells for long periods of time. However, the presence or episodic reactivation of the virus increases the risk of transforming healthy cells to malignant cells that routinely escape host immune surveillance or of producing pathogenic autoantibodies. Cancers caused by EBV display distinct molecular behaviors compared to those of the same tissue type that are not caused by EBV, presenting opportunities for targeted treatments. Despite some encouraging results from exploration of vaccines, antiviral agents and immune- and cell-based treatments, the efficacy and safety of most therapeutics remain unclear. Here, we provide an up-to-date review focusing on underlying immune and environmental mechanisms, current therapeutics and vaccines, animal models and emerging technologies to study EBV-associated diseases that may help provide insights for the development of novel effective treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srishti Chakravorty
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Behdad Afzali
- Immunoregulation Section, Kidney Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Majid Kazemian
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Department of Computer Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cui X, Snapper CM. Epstein Barr Virus: Development of Vaccines and Immune Cell Therapy for EBV-Associated Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:734471. [PMID: 34691042 PMCID: PMC8532523 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.734471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the first human tumor virus discovered and is strongly implicated in the etiology of multiple lymphoid and epithelial cancers. Each year EBV associated cancers account for over 200,000 new cases of cancer and cause 150,000 deaths world-wide. EBV is also the primary cause of infectious mononucleosis, and up to 70% of adolescents and young adults in developed countries suffer from infectious mononucleosis. In addition, EBV has been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. An EBV prophylactic vaccine that induces neutralizing antibodies holds great promise for prevention of EBV associated diseases. EBV envelope proteins including gH/gL, gB and gp350 play key roles in EBV entry and infection of target cells, and neutralizing antibodies elicited by each of these proteins have shown to prevent EBV infection of target cells and markedly decrease EBV titers in the peripheral blood of humanized mice challenged with lethal dose EBV. Recent studies demonstrated that immunization with the combination of gH/gL, gB and/or gp350 induced markedly increased synergistic EBV neutralizing activity compared to immunization with individual proteins. As previous clinical trials focused on gp350 alone were partially successful, the inclusion of gH/gL and gB in a vaccine formulation with gp350 represents a promising approach of EBV prophylactic vaccine development. Therapeutic EBV vaccines have also been tested clinically with encouraging results. Immunization with various vaccine platforms expressing the EBV latent proteins EBNA1, LMP1, and/or LMP2 promoted specific CD4+ and CD8+ cytotoxic responses with anti-tumor activity. The addition of EBV envelope proteins gH/gL, gB and gp350 has the potential to increase the efficacy of a therapeutic EBV vaccine. The immune system plays a critical role in the control of tumors, and immune cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment of cancers. Adoptive T-cell therapy has been successfully used in the prevention and treatment of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy and T cell receptor engineered T cell therapy targeting EBV latent proteins LMP1, LMP2 and/or EBNA1 have been in development, with the goal to increase the specificity and efficacy of treatment of EBV associated cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinle Cui
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.,The Institute for Vaccine Research and Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Clifford M Snapper
- The Institute for Vaccine Research and Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States.,Citranvi Biosciences LLC, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jean-Pierre V, Lupo J, Buisson M, Morand P, Germi R. Main Targets of Interest for the Development of a Prophylactic or Therapeutic Epstein-Barr Virus Vaccine. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:701611. [PMID: 34239514 PMCID: PMC8258399 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.701611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the most widespread viruses in the world; more than 90% of the planet's adult population is infected. Symptomatic primary infection by this Herpesviridae corresponds to infectious mononucleosis (IM), which is generally a benign disease. While virus persistence is often asymptomatic, it is responsible for 1.5% of cancers worldwide, mainly B cell lymphomas and carcinomas. EBV may also be associated with autoimmune and/or inflammatory diseases. However, no effective treatment or anti-EBV vaccine is currently available. Knowledge of the proteins and mechanisms involved in the different steps of the viral cycle is essential to the development of effective vaccines. The present review describes the main actors in the entry of the virus into B cells and epithelial cells, which are targets of interest in the development of prophylactic vaccines aimed at preventing viral infection. This review also summarizes the first vaccinal approaches tested in humans, all of which are based on the gp350/220 glycoprotein; while they have reduced the risk of IM, they have yet to prevent EBV infection. The main proteins involved in the EBV latency cycle and some of the proteins involved in the lytic cycle have essential roles in the oncogenesis of EBV. For that reason, these proteins are of interest for the development of therapeutic vaccines of which the objective is the stimulation of T cell immunity against EBV-associated cancers. New strategies aimed at broadening the antigenic spectrum, are currently being studied and will contribute to the targeting of the essential steps of the viral cycle, the objective being to prevent or treat the diseases associated with EBV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Jean-Pierre
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU de Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Julien Lupo
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU de Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Marlyse Buisson
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU de Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Institut de Biologie Structurale, UMR 5075, CEA, CNRS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Patrice Morand
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU de Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Raphaële Germi
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut de Biologie et de Pathologie, CHU de Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sinha D, Srihari S, Beckett K, Le Texier L, Solomon M, Panikkar A, Ambalathingal GR, Lekieffre L, Crooks P, Rehan S, Neller MA, Smith C, Khanna R. 'Off-the-shelf' allogeneic antigen-specific adoptive T-cell therapy for the treatment of multiple EBV-associated malignancies. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2020-001608. [PMID: 33589524 PMCID: PMC7887372 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), an oncogenic human gammaherpesvirus, is associated with a wide range of human malignancies of epithelial and B-cell origin. Recent studies have demonstrated promising safety and clinical efficacy of allogeneic ‘off-the-shelf’ virus-specific T-cell therapies for post-transplant viral complications. Methods Taking a clue from these studies, we developed a highly efficient EBV-specific T-cell expansion process using a replication-deficient AdE1-LMPpoly vector that specifically targets EBV-encoded nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) and latent membrane proteins 1 and 2 (LMP1 and LMP2), expressed in latency II malignancies. Results These allogeneic EBV-specific T cells efficiently recognized human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched EBNA1-expressing and/or LMP1 and LMP2-expressing malignant cells and demonstrated therapeutic potential in a number of in vivo models, including EBV lymphomas that emerged spontaneously in humanized mice following EBV infection. Interestingly, we were able to override resistance to T-cell therapy in vivo using a ‘restriction-switching’ approach, through sequential infusion of two different allogeneic T-cell therapies restricted through different HLA alleles. Furthermore, we have shown that inhibition of the programmed cell death protein-1/programmed death-ligand 1 axis in combination with EBV-specific T-cell therapy significantly improved overall survival of tumor-bearing mice when compared with monotherapy. Conclusion These findings suggest that restriction switching by sequential infusion of allogeneic T-cell therapies that target EBV through distinct HLA alleles may improve clinical response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debottam Sinha
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sriganesh Srihari
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kirrliee Beckett
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Laetitia Le Texier
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew Solomon
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Archana Panikkar
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Lea Lekieffre
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Pauline Crooks
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sweera Rehan
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michelle A Neller
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Corey Smith
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rajiv Khanna
- Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cao Y, Xie L, Shi F, Tang M, Li Y, Hu J, Zhao L, Zhao L, Yu X, Luo X, Liao W, Bode AM. Targeting the signaling in Epstein-Barr virus-associated diseases: mechanism, regulation, and clinical study. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:15. [PMID: 33436584 PMCID: PMC7801793 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00376-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein–Barr virus-associated diseases are important global health concerns. As a group I carcinogen, EBV accounts for 1.5% of human malignances, including both epithelial- and lymphatic-originated tumors. Moreover, EBV plays an etiological and pathogenic role in a number of non-neoplastic diseases, and is even involved in multiple autoimmune diseases (SADs). In this review, we summarize and discuss some recent exciting discoveries in EBV research area, which including DNA methylation alterations, metabolic reprogramming, the changes of mitochondria and ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), oxidative stress and EBV lytic reactivation, variations in non-coding RNA (ncRNA), radiochemotherapy and immunotherapy. Understanding and learning from this advancement will further confirm the far-reaching and future value of therapeutic strategies in EBV-associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya Cao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China. .,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China. .,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China. .,Research Center for Technologies of Nucleic Acid-Based Diagnostics and Therapeutics Hunan Province, 410078, Changsha, China. .,Molecular Imaging Research Center of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Joint Engineering Research Center for Genetic Diagnostics of Infectious Diseases and Cancer, 410078, Changsha, China. .,Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.
| | - Longlong Xie
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Feng Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Min Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China.,Molecular Imaging Research Center of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yueshuo Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Jianmin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Luqing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Xinfang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangjian Luo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Invasion, Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, 410078, Changsha, China.,Molecular Imaging Research Center of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weihua Liao
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, China
| | - Ann M Bode
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shih WL, Fang CT, Chen PJ. Chapter XX Antiviral Treatment and Cancer Control. Recent Results Cancer Res 2021; 217:325-354. [PMID: 33200371 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57362-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human papilloma virus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) contribute to about 10-15% global burden of human cancers. Conventional chemotherapy or molecular target therapies have been used to treat virus-associated cancers. However, a more proactive approach would be the use of antiviral treatment to suppress or eliminate viral infections to prevent the occurrence of cancer in the first place. Antiviral treatments against chronic HBV and HCV infection have achieved this goal, with significant reduction in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in treated patients. Antiviral treatments for EBV, KSHV, and HTLV-1 had limited success in treating refractory EBV-associated lymphoma and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, KSHV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma in AIDS patients, and HTLV-1-associated acute, chronic, and smoldering subtypes of adult T-cell lymphoma, respectively. Therapeutic HPV vaccine and RNA interference-based therapies for treating HPV-associated infection or cervical cancers also showed some encouraging results. Taken together, antiviral therapies have yielded promising results in cancer prevention and treatment. More large-scale studies in a real-world setting are necessary to confirm the efficacy of antiviral therapy. Further investigation for more effective and convenient antiviral regimens warrants more attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Liang Shih
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Tai Fang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Jer Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sinha D, Smith C, Khanna R. Joining Forces: Improving Clinical Response to Cellular Immunotherapies with Small-Molecule Inhibitors. Trends Mol Med 2020; 27:75-90. [PMID: 33011081 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) has emerged as a powerful therapeutic tool against both hematological and virus-associated cancers. However, extension of this success to solid cancers has been challenging owing to intratumoral mechanisms that induce a hostile immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Delineating the impact of tumor-intrinsic adaptive resistance mechanisms on immune-based therapies is essential to improve long-term efficacy. We discuss the different tumor-intrinsic factors that lead to resistance to ACT. We highlight the potential of repurposing molecular targeted therapies to modulate immune responses and override intratumor resistance to ACT. Finally, we discuss the potential of combining targeted therapy and ACT as a new paradigm to improve the clinical efficacy of cancer therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debottam Sinha
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Corey Smith
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Rajiv Khanna
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pyo JS, Kim NY, Kang DW. Clinicopathological Significance of EBV-Infected Gastric Carcinomas: A Meta-Analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56070345. [PMID: 32668573 PMCID: PMC7404405 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56070345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: The present study aims to elucidate the clinicopathologic significance of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection in gastric carcinomas (GCs) through a meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: Sixty-one eligible studies were included in the present meta-analysis. The included patients, with and without EBV infection, were 2063 and 17,684, respectively. We investigated the clinicopathologic characteristics and various biomarkers, including programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Results: The estimated EBV-infected rate of GCs was 0.113 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.088-0.143). The EBV infection rates in GC cells were 0.138 (95% CI: 0.096-0.194), 0.103 (95% CI: 0.077-0.137), 0.080 (95% CI: 0.061-0.106), and 0.042 (95% CI: 0.016-0.106) in the population of Asia, America, Europe, and Africa, respectively. There was a significant difference between EBV-infected and noninfected GCs in the male: female ratio, but not other clinicopathological characteristics. EBV infection rates were higher in GC with lymphoid stroma (0.573, 95% CI: 0.428-0.706) than other histologic types of GCs. There were significant differences in high AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A (ARID1A) and PD-L1 expressions, and high CD8+ TILs between EBV-infected and noninfected GCs. Conclusions: Our results showed that EBV infection of GCs was frequently found in male patients and GCs with lymphoid stroma. EBV infection was significantly correlated with ARID1A and PD-L1 expressions and CD8+ TILs in GCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Soo Pyo
- Department of Pathology, Daejeon Eulji University Hospital, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35233, Korea;
| | - Nae-Yu Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon Eulji University Hospital, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35233, Korea;
| | - Dong-Wook Kang
- Department of Pathology, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20 Bodeum 7-ro, Sejong 30099, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, 266 Munhwa Street, Daejeon 35015, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-10-8561-9895
| |
Collapse
|