1
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Zhang Y, Fan Y, Liu S, Guan Y, Wan J, Ren Q, Wang J, Zhong L, Hu Z, Shi W, Qian H. Development of Peptide Paratope Mimics Derived from the Anti-ROR1 Antibody and Long-Acting Peptide-Drug Conjugates for Targeted Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:10967-10985. [PMID: 38943600 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-based targeted therapy in cancer faces a challenge due to uneven antibody distribution in solid tumors, hindering effective drug delivery. We addressed this by developing peptide mimetics with nanomolar-range affinity for Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-Like Orphan Receptor 1 (ROR1) using computational methods. These peptides showed both specific targeting and deep penetration in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we created peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) by linking targeting peptides to toxin drugs via various linkers and enhancing their in vivo half-life with fatty side chains for albumin binding. The antitumor candidate II-3 displayed exceptional affinity (KD = 1.72 × 10-9 M), internalization efficiency, anticancer potency (IC50 = 0.015 ± 0.002 μM), and pharmacokinetics (t1/2 = 2.6 h), showcasing a rational approach for designing PDCs with favorable tissue distribution and strong tumor penetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhang
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
- Department of Life Sciences, Changzhi University, Changzhi, Shanxi 046011, PR China
| | - Yiqing Fan
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Shuyu Liu
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yonghui Guan
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Jiale Wan
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Qiang Ren
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Jialing Wang
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Li Zhong
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Zhipeng Hu
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Wei Shi
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Hai Qian
- Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
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2
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Chu Y, Nayyar G, Tian M, Lee DA, Ozkaynak MF, Ayala-Cuesta J, Klose K, Foley K, Mendelowitz AS, Luo W, Liao Y, Ayello J, Behbehani GK, Riddell S, Cripe T, Cairo MS. Efficiently targeting neuroblastoma with the combination of anti-ROR1 CAR NK cells and N-803 in vitro and in vivo in NB xenografts. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200820. [PMID: 38933492 PMCID: PMC11201149 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The prognosis for children with recurrent and/or refractory neuroblastoma (NB) is dismal. The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), which is highly expressed on the surface of NB cells, provides a potential target for novel immunotherapeutics. Anti-ROR1 chimeric antigen receptor engineered ex vivo expanded peripheral blood natural killer (anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK) cells represent this approach. N-803 is an IL-15 superagonist with enhanced biological activity. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor effects of anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells with or without N-803 against ROR1+ NB models. Compared to mock exPBNK cells, anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells had significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against ROR1+ NB cells, and N-803 further increased cytotoxicity. High-dimensional analysis revealed that N-803 enhanced Stat5 phosphorylation and Ki67 levels in both exPBNK and anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells with or without NB cells. In vivo, anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK plus N-803 significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced survival in human ROR1+ NB xenografted NSG mice compared to anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK alone. Our results provide the rationale for further development of anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells plus N-803 as a novel combination immunotherapeutic for patients with recurrent and/or refractory ROR1+ NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaya Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Gaurav Nayyar
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Meijuan Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Dean A. Lee
- Department of Pediatric Hem/Onc/BMT, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mehmet F. Ozkaynak
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | | | - Kayleigh Klose
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Keira Foley
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | | | - Wen Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Yanling Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Janet Ayello
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Gregory K. Behbehani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, the Ohio State University; Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stanley Riddell
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Tim Cripe
- Department of Pediatric Hem/Onc/BMT, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mitchell S. Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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3
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Wu ZL, Wang Y, Jia XY, Wang YG, Wang H. Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1: A novel antitumor target in gastrointestinal cancers. World J Clin Oncol 2024; 15:603-613. [PMID: 38835843 PMCID: PMC11145958 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v15.i5.603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a member of the type I receptor tyrosine kinase family. ROR1 is pivotal in embryonic development and cancer, and serves as a biomarker and therapeutic target. It has soluble and membrane-bound subtypes, with the latter highly expressed in tumors. ROR1 is conserved throughout evolution and may play a role in the development of gastrointestinal cancer through multiple signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms. Studies suggest that overexpression of ROR1 may increase tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Additionally, ROR1 may regulate the cell cycle, stem cell characteristics, and interact with other signaling pathways to affect cancer progression. This review explores the structure, expression and role of ROR1 in the development of gastrointestinal cancers. It discusses current antitumor strategies, outlining challenges and prospects for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Long Wu
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou 311201, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Jia
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi-Gang Wang
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou 311201, Zhejiang Province, China
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4
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Mittelstädt A, Anthuber A, David P, Podolska M, Bénard A, Brunner M, Krautz C, Jacobsen A, Denz A, Weber K, Merkel S, Hackner D, Buniatov T, Roßdeutsch L, Klösch B, Swierzy I, Hansen FJ, Strobel D, Zopf Y, Baur JO, Van Deun J, Immanuel Geppert C, Gießl A, Lettmaier S, Semrau S, Grützmann R, Kouhestani D, Weber GF. Exosomal ROR1 in peritoneal fluid identifies peritoneal disseminated PDAC and is associated with poor survival. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1253072. [PMID: 38846943 PMCID: PMC11153717 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1253072] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest forms of cancer and peritoneal dissemination is one major cause for this poor prognosis. Exosomes have emerged as promising biomarkers for gastrointestinal cancers and can be found in all kinds of bodily fluids, also in peritoneal fluid (PF). This is a unique sample due to its closeness to gastrointestinal malignancies. The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) has been identified as a potential biomarker in human cancers and represents a promising target for an immunotherapy approach, which could be considered for future treatment strategies. Here we prospectively analyzed the exosomal surface protein ROR1 (exo-ROR1) in PF in localized PDAC patients (PER-) on the one hand and peritoneal disseminated tumor stages (PER+) on the other hand followed by the correlation of exo-ROR1 with clinical-pathological parameters. Methods Exosomes were isolated from PF and plasma samples of non-cancerous (NC) (n = 15), chronic pancreatitis (CP) (n = 4), localized PDAC (PER-) (n = 18) and peritoneal disseminated PDAC (PER+) (n = 9) patients and the surface protein ROR1 was detected via FACS analysis. Additionally, soluble ROR1 in PF was analyzed. ROR1 expression in tissue was investigated using western blots (WB), qPCR, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Exosome isolation was proven by Nano Tracking Analysis (NTA), WB, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and BCA protein assay. The results were correlated with clinical data and survival analysis was performed. Results PDAC (PER+) patients have the highest exo-ROR1 values in PF and can be discriminated from NC (p <0.0001), PDAC (PER-) (p <0.0001), and CP (p = 0.0112). PDAC (PER-) can be discriminated from NC (p = 0.0003). In plasma, exo-ROR1 is not able to distinguish between the groups. While there is no expression of ROR1 in the exocrine pancreatic tissue, PDAC and peritoneal metastasis show expression of ROR1. High exo-ROR1 expression in PF is associated with lower overall survival (p = 0.0482). Conclusion With exo-ROR1 in PF we found a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker possibly discriminating between NC, PDAC (PER-) and PDAC (PER+) and might shed light on future diagnostic and therapeutic concepts in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Mittelstädt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna Anthuber
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul David
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Alan Bénard
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Christian Krautz
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anne Jacobsen
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Axel Denz
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klaus Weber
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Merkel
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Danilo Hackner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Timur Buniatov
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lotta Roßdeutsch
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Bettina Klösch
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Izabella Swierzy
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Deike Strobel
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yurdagül Zopf
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan-Ole Baur
- Department of Internal Medicine 5, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Van Deun
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Gießl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Lettmaier
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sabine Semrau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Robert Grützmann
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dina Kouhestani
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg F. Weber
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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5
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Mouawad N, Ruggeri E, Capasso G, Martinello L, Visentin A, Frezzato F, Trentin L. How receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 meets its partners in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Hematol Oncol 2024; 42:e3250. [PMID: 38949887 DOI: 10.1002/hon.3250] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in western societies, recognized by clinical and molecular heterogeneity. Despite the success of targeted therapies, acquired resistance remains a challenge for relapsed and refractory CLL, as a consequence of mutations in the target or the upregulation of other survival pathways leading to the progression of the disease. Research on proteins that can trigger such pathways may define novel therapies for a successful outcome in CLL such as the receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1). ROR1 is a signaling receptor for Wnt5a, with an important role during embryogenesis. The aberrant expression on CLL cells and several types of tumors, is involved in cell proliferation, survival, migration as well as drug resistance. Antibody-based immunotherapies and small-molecule compounds emerged to target ROR1 in preclinical and clinical studies. Efforts have been made to identify new prognostic markers having predictive value to refine and increase the detection and management of CLL. ROR1 can be considered as an attractive target for CLL diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. It can be clinically effective alone and/or in combination with current approved agents. In this review, we summarize the scientific achievements in targeting ROR1 for CLL diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
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MESH Headings
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Humans
- Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-like Orphan Receptors/metabolism
- Prognosis
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Animals
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayla Mouawad
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Edoardo Ruggeri
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Guido Capasso
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Leonardo Martinello
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Visentin
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Frezzato
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Livio Trentin
- Hematology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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6
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Qiao JX, Witmer MR, Lee V, Wang TC, Reid PC, Arioka Y, Farr G, Hill-Drzewi M, Schweizer L, Yamniuk A, Cheng L, Abramczyk B, Corbett M, Calambur D, Szapiel N, Ryseck R, Ponath P, Poss MA, Carter P. Exploration of macrocyclic peptide binders to the extracellular CRD domain of human receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1). Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 98:129589. [PMID: 38097140 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129589] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (RORl) expression are observed in multiple hematological and solid tumors, but not in most of the healthy adult tissues, identifying ROR1 as an attractive target for tumor-specific therapy. Herein we will describe the discovery of macrocyclic peptides as binders of the extracellular Cysteine-Rich Domain (CRD) of human ROR1 via mRNA in vitro selection technology using the PDPS platform, followed by exploration of sidechain SAR of parent macrocycle peptides, fluorescently labeled analogs, and a Peptide Drug Conjugate (PDC). The parent macrocyclic peptides represented by Compound 1 and Compound 14 displayed nanomolar cell-based binding to ROR1 and relatively good internalization in 786-O and MDA-MB-231 tumor cell lines. However, these peptides were not observed to induce apoptosis in Mia PaCa-2 cells, a model pancreatic tumor cell line with a relatively low level of cell surface expression of ROR1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark R Witmer
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Ving Lee
- Discovery Chemistry, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Tammy C Wang
- Discovery Chemistry, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Patrick C Reid
- PeptiDream 3-25-23 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 210-0821, Japan
| | - Yuki Arioka
- PeptiDream 3-25-23 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 210-0821, Japan
| | - Glen Farr
- Leads Discovery & Optimization, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | | | - Liang Schweizer
- Leads Discovery & Optimization, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Aaron Yamniuk
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Lin Cheng
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Bozena Abramczyk
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Martin Corbett
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Deepa Calambur
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Nicolas Szapiel
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Rolf Ryseck
- Molecular Discovery Technology, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | - Paul Ponath
- Discovery Biology, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
| | | | - Percy Carter
- Discovery Chemistry, Princeton, NJ 08543, United States
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7
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Lee KJ, Kim NH, Kim HS, Kim Y, Lee JJ, Kim JH, Cho HY, Jeong SY, Park ST. The Role of ROR1 in Chemoresistance and EMT in Endometrial Cancer Cells. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59050994. [PMID: 37241228 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor type 1 (ROR1) plays a critical role in embryogenesis and is overexpressed in many malignant cells. These characteristics allow ROR1 to be a potential new target for cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ROR1 through in vitro experiments in endometrial cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: ROR1 expression was identified in endometrial cancer cell lines using Western blot and RT-qPCR. The effects of ROR1 on cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers were analyzed in two endometrial cancer cell lines (HEC-1 and SNU-539) using either ROR1 silencing or overexpression. Additionally, chemoresistance was examined by identifying MDR1 expression and IC50 level of paclitaxel. Results: The ROR1 protein and mRNA were highly expressed in SNU-539 and HEC-1 cells. High ROR1 expression resulted in a significant increase in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. It also resulted in a change of EMT markers expression, a decrease in E-cadherin expression, and an increase in Snail expression. Moreover, cells with ROR1 overexpression had a higher IC50 of paclitaxel and significantly increased MDR1 expression. Conclusions: These in vitro experiments showed that ROR1 is responsible for EMT and chemoresistance in endometrial cancer cell lines. Targeting ROR1 can inhibit cancer metastasis and may be a potential treatment method for patients with endometrial cancer who exhibit chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Jun Lee
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hyeok Kim
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Su Kim
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngmi Kim
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Jun Lee
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chuncheon Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24253, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Han Kim
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Yon Cho
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dongtan Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong 18450, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Young Jeong
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Taek Park
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
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8
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Ghaderi A, Okhovat MA, Lehto J, De Petris L, Manouchehri Doulabi E, Kokhaei P, Zhong W, Rassidakis GZ, Drakos E, Moshfegh A, Schultz J, Olin T, Österborg A, Mellstedt H, Hojjat-Farsangi M. A Small Molecule Targeting the Intracellular Tyrosine Kinase Domain of ROR1 (KAN0441571C) Induced Significant Apoptosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Cells. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041148. [PMID: 37111634 PMCID: PMC10145660 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The ROR1 receptor tyrosine kinase is expressed in embryonic tissues but is absent in normal adult tissues. ROR1 is of importance in oncogenesis and is overexpressed in several cancers, such as NSCLC. In this study, we evaluated ROR1 expression in NSCLC patients (N = 287) and the cytotoxic effects of a small molecule ROR1 inhibitor (KAN0441571C) in NSCLC cell lines. ROR1 expression in tumor cells was more frequent in non-squamous (87%) than in squamous (57%) carcinomas patients, while 21% of neuroendocrine tumors expressed ROR1 (p = 0.0001). A significantly higher proportion of p53 negative patients in the ROR1+ group than in the p53 positive non-squamous NSCLC patients (p = 0.03) was noted. KAN0441571C dephosphorylated ROR1 and induced apoptosis (Annexin V/PI) in a time- and dose-dependent manner in five ROR1+ NSCLC cell lines and was superior compared to erlotinib (EGFR inhibitor). Apoptosis was confirmed by the downregulation of MCL-1 and BCL-2, as well as PARP and caspase 3 cleavage. The non-canonical Wnt pathway was involved. The combination of KAN0441571C and erlotinib showed a synergistic apoptotic effect. KAN0441571C also inhibited proliferative (cell cycle analyses, colony formation assay) and migratory (scratch wound healing assay) functions. Targeting NSCLC cells by a combination of ROR1 and EGFR inhibitors may represent a novel promising approach for the treatment of NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amineh Ghaderi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mohammad-Ali Okhovat
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jemina Lehto
- Kancera AB, Nanna Svartz Väg 4, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Luigi De Petris
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Thoracic Oncology Center, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, 171 76 Solna, Sweden
| | - Ehsan Manouchehri Doulabi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Parviz Kokhaei
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Immunology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak 3848170001, Iran
| | - Wen Zhong
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Georgios Z. Rassidakis
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elias Drakos
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Crete, 700 13 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ali Moshfegh
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Kancera AB, Nanna Svartz Väg 4, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Johan Schultz
- Kancera AB, Nanna Svartz Väg 4, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Thomas Olin
- Kancera AB, Nanna Svartz Väg 4, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Anders Österborg
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, 171 64 Solna, Sweden
| | - Håkan Mellstedt
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
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9
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Osorio-Rodríguez DA, Camacho BA, Ramírez-Segura C. Anti-ROR1 CAR-T cells: Architecture and performance. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1121020. [PMID: 36873868 PMCID: PMC9981679 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1121020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a membrane receptor that plays a key role in development. It is highly expressed during the embryonic stage and relatively low in some normal adult tissues. Malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma, and some solid tumors overexpress ROR1, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Moreover, immunotherapy with autologous T-cells engineered to express a ROR1-specific chimeric antigen receptor (ROR1 CAR-T cells) has emerged as a personalized therapeutic option for patients with tumor recurrence after conventional treatments. However, tumor cell heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment (TME) hinder successful clinical outcomes. This review briefly describes the biological functions of ROR1 and its relevance as a tumor therapeutic target, as well as the architecture, activity, evaluation, and safety of some ROR1 CAR-T cells used in basic research and clinical trials. Finally, the feasibility of applying the ROR1 CAR-T cell strategy in combination with therapies targeting other tumor antigens or with inhibitors that prevent tumor antigenic escape is also discussed. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT02706392.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Andrés Osorio-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - César Ramírez-Segura
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
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10
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Jeong SY, Lee KJ, Cha J, Park SY, Kim HS, Kim JH, Lee JJ, Kim N, Park ST. Meta-Analysis of Survival Effects of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-like Orphan Receptor 1 (ROR1). MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58121867. [PMID: 36557069 PMCID: PMC9784027 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58121867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Identification and targeting of membrane proteins in tumor cells is one of the key steps in the development of cancer drugs. The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor (ROR) type 1 is a type-I transmembrane protein expressed in various cancer tissues, which is in contrast to its limited expression in normal tissues. These characteristics make ROR1 a candidate target for cancer treatment. This study aimed to identify the prognostic value of ROR1 expression in cancers. Materials and Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed) from their inception to September 2021. The included studies assessed the effect of ROR1 on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Hazard ratios (HR) from collected data were pooled in a meta-analysis using Revman version 5.4 with generic inverse-variance and random effects modeling. Results: A total of fourteen studies were included in the final analysis. ROR1 was associated with worse OS (HR 1.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.50−2.54; p < 0.001) with heterogeneity. The association between poor OS and ROR1 expression was high in endometrial cancer, followed by ovarian cancer, and diffuse large B cell lymphoma. In addition, ROR1 was associated with poor PFS (HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.60−2.10; p < 0.001), but heterogeneity was not statistically significant. In subgroup analysis, high ROR1 expression showed a significantly higher rate of advanced stage or lymph node metastasis. Conclusions: This meta-analysis provides evidence that ROR1 expression is associated with adverse outcome in cancer survival. This result highlights ROR1 as a target for developmental therapeutics in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Young Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-jun Lee
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieum Cha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yoon Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Su Kim
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Han Kim
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Jun Lee
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chuncheon Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24253, Republic of Korea
| | - Namhyeok Kim
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Taek Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangnam Sacred-Heart Hospital, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
- Institute of New Frontier Research Team, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-829-5151; Fax: +82-2-833-5323
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11
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Harrasser M, Gohil SH, Lau H, Della Peruta M, Muczynski V, Patel D, Miranda E, Grigoriadis K, Grigoriadis A, Granger D, Evans R, Nathwani AC. Inducible localized delivery of an anti-PD-1 scFv enhances anti-tumor activity of ROR1 CAR-T cells in TNBC. Breast Cancer Res 2022; 24:39. [PMID: 35659040 PMCID: PMC9166313 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-022-01531-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells can induce powerful immune responses in patients with hematological malignancies but have had limited success against solid tumors. This is in part due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) which limits the activity of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) including CAR-T cells. We have developed a next-generation armored CAR (F i-CAR) targeting receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), which is expressed at high levels in a range of aggressive tumors including poorly prognostic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The F i-CAR-T is designed to release an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor upon CAR-T cell activation within the TME, facilitating activation of CAR-T cells and TILs while limiting toxicity. Methods To bolster potency, we developed a F i-CAR construct capable of IL-2-mediated, NFAT-induced secretion of anti-PD-1 single-chain variable fragments (scFv) within the tumor microenvironment, following ROR1-mediated activation. Cytotoxic responses against TNBC cell lines as well as levels and binding functionality of released payload were analyzed in vitro by ELISA and flow cytometry. In vivo assessment of potency of F i-CAR-T cells was performed in a TNBC NSG mouse model. Results F i-CAR-T cells released measurable levels of anti-PD-1 payload with 5 h of binding to ROR1 on tumor and enhanced the cytotoxic effects at challenging 1:10 E:T ratios. Treatment of established PDL1 + TNBC xenograft model with F i-CAR-T cells resulted in significant abrogation in tumor growth and improved survival of mice (71 days), compared to non-armored CAR cells targeting ROR1 (F CAR-T) alone (49 days) or in combination with systemically administered anti-PD-1 antibody (57 days). Crucially, a threefold increase in tumor-infiltrating T cells was observed with F i-CAR-T cells and was associated with increased expression of genes related to cytotoxicity, migration and proliferation. Conclusions Our next-generation of ROR1-targeting inducible armored CAR platform enables the release of an immune stimulating payload only in the presence of target tumor cells, enhancing the therapeutic activity of the CAR-T cells. This technology provided a significant survival advantage in TNBC xenograft models. This coupled with its potential safety attributes merits further clinical evaluation of this approach in TNBC patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13058-022-01531-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Harrasser
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK.,Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Royal Free NHS Trust Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Satyen Harish Gohil
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Hiu Lau
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Marco Della Peruta
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Vincent Muczynski
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK.,Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Royal Free NHS Trust Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK.,NovalGen Ltd, University College London, London, NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Dominic Patel
- Biobank and Pathology Translational Technology Platform, CRUK-UCL Centre, Cancer Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6DE, UK
| | - Elena Miranda
- Biobank and Pathology Translational Technology Platform, CRUK-UCL Centre, Cancer Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6DE, UK
| | - Kristiana Grigoriadis
- Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Anita Grigoriadis
- Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - David Granger
- NovalGen Ltd, University College London, London, NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Rachel Evans
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK.,Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Royal Free NHS Trust Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK.,Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Amit Chunilal Nathwani
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, WC1E 6DD, UK. .,Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Royal Free NHS Trust Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK. .,NovalGen Ltd, University College London, London, NW3 2QG, UK.
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12
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Morales E, Olson M, Iglesias F, Dahiya S, Luetkens T, Atanackovic D. Role of immunotherapy in Ewing sarcoma. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-000653. [PMID: 33293354 PMCID: PMC7725096 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-000653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is thought to arise from mesenchymal stem cells and is the second most common bone sarcoma in pediatric patients and young adults. Given the dismal overall outcomes and very intensive therapies used, there is an urgent need to explore and develop alternative treatment modalities including immunotherapies. In this article, we provide an overview of ES biology, features of ES tumor microenvironment (TME) and review various tumor-associated antigens that can be targeted with immune-based approaches including cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, T cell receptor-transduced T cells, and chimeric antigen receptor T cells. We highlight key reasons for the limited efficacy of various immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of ES to date. These factors include absence of human leukocyte antigen class I molecules from the tumor tissue, lack of an ideal surface antigen, and immunosuppressive TME due to the presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, F2 fibrocytes, and M2-like macrophages. Lastly, we offer insights into strategies for novel therapeutics development in ES. These strategies include the development of gene-modified T cell receptor T cells against cancer–testis antigen such as XAGE-1, surface target discovery through detailed profiling of ES surface proteome, and combinatorial approaches. In summary, we provide state-of-the-art science in ES tumor immunology and immunotherapy, with rationale and recommendations for future therapeutics development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Morales
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Michael Olson
- Cancer Immunotherapy, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Fiorella Iglesias
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Saurabh Dahiya
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine and Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tim Luetkens
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Cancer Immunotherapy, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine and Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies, University of Utah/Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Djordje Atanackovic
- Cancer Immunotherapy, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA .,Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine and Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies, University of Utah/Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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13
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The ROR1 antibody-drug conjugate huXBR1-402-G5-PNU effectively targets ROR1+ leukemia. Blood Adv 2021; 5:3152-3162. [PMID: 34424320 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates directed against tumor-specific targets have allowed targeted delivery of highly potent chemotherapy to malignant cells while sparing normal cells. Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is an oncofetal protein with limited expression on normal adult tissues and is overexpressed on the surface of malignant cells in mantle cell lymphoma, acute lymphocytic leukemia with t(1;19)(q23;p13) translocation, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This differential expression makes ROR1 an attractive target for antibody-drug conjugate therapy, especially in malignancies such as mantle cell lymphoma and acute lymphocytic leukemia, in which systemic chemotherapy remains the gold standard. Several preclinical and phase 1 clinical studies have established the safety and effectiveness of anti-ROR1 monoclonal antibody-based therapies. Herein we describe a humanized, first-in-class anti-ROR1 antibody-drug conjugate, huXBR1-402-G5-PNU, which links a novel anti-ROR1 antibody (huXBR1-402) to a highly potent anthracycline derivative (PNU). We found that huXBR1-402-G5-PNU is cytotoxic to proliferating ROR1+ malignant cells in vitro and suppressed leukemia proliferation and extended survival in multiple models of mice engrafted with human ROR1+ leukemia. Lastly, we show that the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2)-dependent cytotoxicity of huXBR1-402-G5-PNU can be leveraged by combined treatment strategies with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. Together, our data present compelling preclinical evidence for the efficacy of huXBR1-402-G5-PNU in treating ROR1+ hematologic malignancies.
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14
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Zhao Y, Zhang D, Guo Y, Lu B, Zhao ZJ, Xu X, Chen Y. Tyrosine Kinase ROR1 as a Target for Anti-Cancer Therapies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:680834. [PMID: 34123850 PMCID: PMC8193947 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.680834] [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: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase ROR1 plays an essential role in embryogenesis and is overexpressed in many types of malignant tumors. Studies have demonstrated that it plays an important role in oncogenesis by activating cell survival signaling events, particularly the non-canonical WNT signaling pathway. Antibody-based immunotherapies targeting ROR1 have been developed and evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies with promising outcomes. However, small molecule inhibitors targeting ROR1 are underappreciated because of the initial characterization of ROR1 as a peusdokinase. The function of ROR1 as a tyrosine kinase remains poorly understood, although accumulating evidence have demonstrated its intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity. In this review, we analyzed the structural and functional features of ROR1 and discussed therapeutic strategies targeting this kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Zhao
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dengyang Zhang
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yao Guo
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Lu
- Department of Hematology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhizhuang Joe Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Xiaojun Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Edmond H. Fischer Translational Medical Research Laboratory, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
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15
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Yeku OO, Rao TD, Laster I, Kononenko A, Purdon TJ, Wang P, Cui Z, Liu H, Brentjens RJ, Spriggs D. Bispecific T-Cell Engaging Antibodies Against MUC16 Demonstrate Efficacy Against Ovarian Cancer in Monotherapy and in Combination With PD-1 and VEGF Inhibition. Front Immunol 2021; 12:663379. [PMID: 33936101 PMCID: PMC8079980 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.663379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy for ovarian cancer is an area of intense investigation since the majority of women with relapsed disease develop resistance to conventional cytotoxic therapy. The paucity of safe and validated target antigens has limited the development of clinically relevant antibody-based immunotherapeutics for this disease. Although MUC16 expression is almost universal in High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancers, engagement of the shed circulating MUC16 antigen (CA-125) presents a theoretical risk of systemic activation and toxicity. We designed and evaluated a series of bispecific tandem single-chain variable fragments specific to the retained portion of human MUC16 ectodomain (MUC16ecto) and human CD3. These MUC16ecto- BiTEDs retain binding in the presence of soluble MUC16 (CA-125) and show cytotoxicity against a panel of ovarian cancer cells in vitro. MUC16ecto- BiTEDs delay tumor progression in vivo and significantly prolong survival in a xenograft model of ovarian peritoneal carcinomatosis. This effect was significantly enhanced by antiangiogenic (anti-VEGF) therapy and immune checkpoint inhibition (anti-PD1). However, the combination of BiTEDs with anti-VEGF was superior to combination with anti-PD1, based on findings of decreased peritoneal tumor burden and ascites with the former. This study shows the feasibility and efficacy of MUC16ecto- specific BiTEDs and provides a basis for the combination with anti-VEGF therapy for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oladapo O Yeku
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Thapi Dharma Rao
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ian Laster
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Artem Kononenko
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Terence J Purdon
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Pei Wang
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., Emeryville, California, United States
| | - Ziyou Cui
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., Emeryville, California, United States
| | - Hong Liu
- Eureka Therapeutics Inc., Emeryville, California, United States
| | - Renier J Brentjens
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - David Spriggs
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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16
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Lopez-Bergami P, Barbero G. The emerging role of Wnt5a in the promotion of a pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 39:933-952. [PMID: 32435939 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-020-09878-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Wnt5a is the prototypical activator of the non-canonical Wnt pathways, and its overexpression has been implicated in the progression of several tumor types by promoting cell motility, invasion, EMT, and metastasis. Recent evidences have revealed a novel role of Wnt5a in the phosphorylation of the NF-κB subunit p65 and the activation of the NF-κB pathway in cancer cells. In this article, we review the molecular mechanisms and mediators defining a Wnt5a/NF-κB signaling pathway and propose that the aberrant expression of Wnt5a in some tumors drives a Wnt5a/NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3 positive feedback loop that amplifies the effects of Wnt5a. The evidences discussed here suggest that Wnt5a has a double effect on the tumor microenvironment. First, it activates an autocrine ROR1/Akt/p65 pathway that promotes inflammation and chemotaxis of immune cells. Then, Wnt5a activates a TLR/MyD88/p50 pathway exclusively in myelomonocytic cells promoting the synthesis of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and a tolerogenic phenotype. As a result of these mechanisms, Wnt5a plays a negative role on immune cell function that contributes to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and would contribute to resistance to immunotherapy. Finally, we summarized the development of different strategies targeting either Wnt5a or the Wnt5a receptor ROR1 that can be helpful for cancer therapy by contributing to generate a more immunostimulatory tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimonides, Hidalgo 775, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Gastón Barbero
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimonides, Hidalgo 775, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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17
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Menck K, Heinrichs S, Baden C, Bleckmann A. The WNT/ROR Pathway in Cancer: From Signaling to Therapeutic Intervention. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010142. [PMID: 33445713 PMCID: PMC7828172 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The WNT pathway is one of the major signaling cascades frequently deregulated in human cancer. While research had initially focused on signal transduction centered on β-catenin as a key effector activating a pro-tumorigenic transcriptional response, nowadays it is known that WNT ligands can also induce a multitude of β-catenin-independent cellular pathways. Traditionally, these comprise WNT/planar cell polarity (PCP) and WNT/Ca2+ signaling. In addition, signaling via the receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptors (RORs) has gained increasing attention in cancer research due to their overexpression in a multitude of tumor entities. Active WNT/ROR signaling has been linked to processes driving tumor development and progression, such as cell proliferation, survival, invasion, or therapy resistance. In adult tissue, the RORs are largely absent, which has spiked the interest in them for targeted cancer therapy. Promising results in preclinical and initial clinical studies are beginning to unravel the great potential of such treatment approaches. In this review, we summarize seminal findings on the structure and expression of the RORs in cancer, their downstream signaling, and its output in regard to tumor cell function. Furthermore, we present the current clinical anti-ROR treatment strategies and discuss the state-of-the-art, as well as the challenges of the different approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Menck
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (K.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.)
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Saskia Heinrichs
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (K.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.)
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Cornelia Baden
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (K.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.)
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Annalen Bleckmann
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (K.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.)
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37099 Göttingen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-0251-8352712
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18
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Hamada M, Yura Y. Efficient Delivery and Replication of Oncolytic Virus for Successful Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7073. [PMID: 32992948 PMCID: PMC7582277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer has been treated by a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. In recent years, the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has made immunotherapy a new treatment method. Oncolytic virus (OV) therapy selectively infects tumor cells with a low-pathogenic virus, lyses tumor cells by the cytopathic effects of the virus, and induces anti-tumor immunity to destroy tumors by the action of immune cells. In OV therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), viruses, such as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), vaccinia virus, adenovirus, reovirus, measles virus, and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), are mainly used. As the combined use of mutant HSV-1 and ICI was successful for the treatment of melanoma, studies are underway to combine OV therapy with radiation, chemotherapy, and other types of immunotherapy. In such therapy, it is important for the virus to selectively replicate in tumor cells, and to express the viral gene and the introduced foreign gene in the tumor cells. In OV therapy for HNSCC, it may be useful to combine systemic and local treatments that improve the delivery and replication of the inoculated oncolytic virus in the tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masakazu Hamada
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan;
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19
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Ghaderi A, Daneshmanesh AH, Moshfegh A, Kokhaei P, Vågberg J, Schultz J, Olin T, Harrysson S, Smedby KE, Drakos E, Rassidakis GZ, Österborg A, Mellstedt H, Hojjat-Farsangi M. ROR1 Is Expressed in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and a Small Molecule Inhibitor of ROR1 (KAN0441571C) Induced Apoptosis of Lymphoma Cells. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8060170. [PMID: 32586008 PMCID: PMC7344684 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8060170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase ROR1 is absent in most normal adult tissues, but overexpressed in several malignancies. In this study, we explored clinical and functional inhibitory aspects of ROR1 in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). ROR1 expression in tumor cells was more often observed in primary refractory DLBCL, Richter’s syndrome and transformed follicular lymphoma than in relapsed and non-relapsed DLBCL patients (p < 0.001). A survival effect of ROR1 expression was preliminarily observed in relapsed/refractory patients independent of gender and stage but not of age, cell of origin and international prognostic index. A second generation small molecule ROR1 inhibitor (KAN0441571C) induced apoptosis of ROR1+ DLBCL cell lines, similar to venetoclax (BCL-2 inhibitor) but superior to ibrutinib (BTK inhibitor). The combination of KAN0441571C and venetoclax at EC50 concentrations induced almost complete killing of DLBCL cell lines. Apoptosis was accompanied by the downregulation of BCL-2 and MCL-1 and confirmed by the cleavage of PARP and caspases 3, 8, 9. PI3Kδ/AKT/mTOR (non-canonical Wnt pathway) as well as β-catenin and CK1δ (canonical pathway) were inactivated. In zebra fishes transplanted with a ROR1+ DLBCL cell line, KAN0441571C induced a significant tumor reduction. New drugs with mechanisms of action other than those available for DLBCL are warranted. ROR1 inhibitors might represent a novel promising approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amineh Ghaderi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
| | - Amir Hossein Daneshmanesh
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
| | - Ali Moshfegh
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
- Kancera AB, Karolinska Institute Science Park, 171 48 Solna, Sweden; (J.V.); (J.S.); (T.O.)
| | - Parviz Kokhaei
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
- Department of Immunology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan 35147-99442, Iran
| | - Jan Vågberg
- Kancera AB, Karolinska Institute Science Park, 171 48 Solna, Sweden; (J.V.); (J.S.); (T.O.)
| | - Johan Schultz
- Kancera AB, Karolinska Institute Science Park, 171 48 Solna, Sweden; (J.V.); (J.S.); (T.O.)
| | - Thomas Olin
- Kancera AB, Karolinska Institute Science Park, 171 48 Solna, Sweden; (J.V.); (J.S.); (T.O.)
| | - Sara Harrysson
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.H.); (K.E.S.)
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin E Smedby
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.H.); (K.E.S.)
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elias Drakos
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71110 Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - Georgios Z. Rassidakis
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
| | - Anders Österborg
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Håkan Mellstedt
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-70-658-9809
| | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institutet, 17164 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.G.); (A.H.D.); (A.M.); (P.K.); (E.D.); (G.Z.R.); (A.Ö.); (M.H.-F.)
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20
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Cerrano M, Ruella M, Perales MA, Vitale C, Faraci DG, Giaccone L, Coscia M, Maloy M, Sanchez-Escamilla M, Elsabah H, Fadul A, Maffini E, Pittari G, Bruno B. The Advent of CAR T-Cell Therapy for Lymphoproliferative Neoplasms: Integrating Research Into Clinical Practice. Front Immunol 2020; 11:888. [PMID: 32477359 PMCID: PMC7235422 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on CAR T cells has achieved enormous progress in recent years. After the impressive results obtained in relapsed and refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and aggressive B-cell lymphomas, two constructs, tisagenlecleucel and axicabtagene ciloleucel, were approved by FDA. The role of CAR T cells in the treatment of B-cell disorders, however, is rapidly evolving. Ongoing clinical trials aim at comparing CAR T cells with standard treatment options and at evaluating their efficacy earlier in the disease course. The use of CAR T cells is still limited by the risk of relevant toxicities, most commonly cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, whose management has nonetheless significantly improved. Some patients do not respond or relapse after treatment, either because of poor CAR T-cell expansion, lack of anti-tumor effects or after the loss of the target antigen on tumor cells. Investigators are trying to overcome these hurdles in many ways: by testing constructs which target different and/or multiple antigens or by improving CAR T-cell structure with additional functions and synergistic molecules. Alternative cell sources including allogeneic products (off-the-shelf CAR T cells), NK cells, and T cells obtained from induced pluripotent stem cells are also considered. Several trials are exploring the curative potential of CAR T cells in other malignancies, and recent data on multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia are encouraging. Given the likely expansion of CAR T-cell indications and their wider availability over time, more and more highly specialized clinical centers, with dedicated clinical units, will be required. Overall, the costs of these cell therapies will also play a role in the sustainability of many health care systems. This review will focus on the major clinical trials of CAR T cells in B-cell malignancies, including those leading to the first FDA approvals, and on the new settings in which these constructs are being tested. Besides, the most promising approaches to improve CAR T-cell efficacy and early data on alternative cell sources will be reviewed. Finally, we will discuss the challenges and the opportunities that are emerging with the advent of CAR T cells into clinical routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cerrano
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Ruella
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Miguel-Angel Perales
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Candida Vitale
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Danilo Giuseppe Faraci
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Luisa Giaccone
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Marta Coscia
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Molly Maloy
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Miriam Sanchez-Escamilla
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Hematological Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation, Research Institute of Marques de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Hesham Elsabah
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hematology/BMT Service, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Afraa Fadul
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hematology/BMT Service, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Enrico Maffini
- Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Romagna Transplant Network, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Pittari
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hematology/BMT Service, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Benedetto Bruno
- Department of Oncology/Hematology, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
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21
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Finding the Keys to the CAR: Identifying Novel Target Antigens for T Cell Redirection Immunotherapies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020515. [PMID: 31947597 PMCID: PMC7014258 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncology immunotherapy has been a significant advancement in cancer treatment and involves harnessing and redirecting a patient’s immune response towards their own tumour. Specific recognition and elimination of tumour cells was first proposed over a century ago with Paul Erlich’s ‘magic bullet’ theory of therapy. In the past decades, targeting cancer antigens by redirecting T cells with antibodies using either bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has achieved impressive clinical responses. Despite recent successes in haematological cancers, linked to a high and uniformly expressed CD19 antigen, the efficacy of T cell therapies in solid cancers has been disappointing, in part due to antigen escape. Targeting heterogeneous solid tumours with T cell therapies will require the identification of novel tumour specific targets. These targets can be found among a range of cell-surface expressed antigens, including proteins, glycolipids or carbohydrates. In this review, we will introduce the current tumour target antigen classification, outline existing approaches to discover novel tumour target antigens and discuss considerations for future design of antibodies with a focus on their use in CAR T cells.
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22
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Treatment Options for Triple-class Refractory Multiple Myeloma. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2020; 20:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2019.09.621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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23
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Wnt Binding Affinity Prediction for Putative Frizzled-Type Cysteine-Rich Domains. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174168. [PMID: 31454915 PMCID: PMC6747125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Several proteins other than the frizzled receptors (Fzd) and the secreted Frizzled-related proteins (sFRP) contain Fzd-type cysteine-rich domains (CRD). We have termed these domains “putative Fzd-type CRDs”, as the relevance of Wnt signalling in the majority of these is unknown; the RORs, an exception to this, are well known for mediating non-canonical Wnt signalling. In this study, we have predicted the likely binding affinity of all Wnts for all putative Fzd-type CRDs. We applied both our previously determined Wnt‒Fzd CRD binding affinity prediction model, as well as a newly devised model wherein the lipid term was forced to contribute favourably to the predicted binding energy. The results obtained from our new model indicate that certain putative Fzd CRDs are much more likely to bind Wnts, in some cases exhibiting selectivity for specific Wnts. The results of this study inform the investigation of Wnt signalling modulation beyond Fzds and sFRPs.
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24
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Leick MB, Maus MV. CAR-T cells beyond CD19, UnCAR-Ted territory. Am J Hematol 2019; 94:S34-S41. [PMID: 30632631 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
CAR-T cells have made dramatic inroads in targeting CD19-positive B-cell malignancies. This review focuses on application of CAR-T cells in hematologic malignancies beyond targeting CD19, with specific attention to Hodgkin's lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B. Leick
- Cellular Immunotherapy ProgramCancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital Boston Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts
| | - Marcela V. Maus
- Cellular Immunotherapy ProgramCancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital Boston Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School Boston Massachusetts
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25
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Kamrani A, Mehdizadeh A, Ahmadi M, Aghebati-Maleki L, Yousefi M. Therapeutic approaches for targeting receptor tyrosine kinase like orphan receptor-1 in cancer cells. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:447-456. [PMID: 30935250 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1602608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a high expression of receptor tyrosine kinase like orphan receptor-1 (ROR-1), a tyrosine kinase receptor, in various tumor-cell types. ROR-1 is involved in many key processes in cancer including proliferation, survival and metastasis. Hence, ROR-1 is an attractive and promising therapeutic target. There are many therapeutic approaches that target ROR-1 and these include specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), modified T cells (CART cell), miRNAs and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Areas covered: This review examines ROR-1 structure and function, immunotherapeutic strategies including specific chimeric antigen receptor (CARs) T cells and miRNAs and other targeted approaches such as the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Expert opinion: Chimeric antibodies, CARs T cells, bi-specific T cell engagers (BiTEs), miRNAs and TKIs are used to target the ROR-1 marker on cancer cell lines. By selecting the most favorable therapeutic approaches regarding ROR-1 in vivo, anti-ROR-1 antibodies or CAR T cells can be also used for diagnosis of ROR-1+ cancer cells in new technologies such as biosensors. Moreover, ROR-1 targeted combination therapy with other cancer biomarkers could be considered a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Kamrani
- a Aging Research Institute , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Student research committee , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- c Endocrine Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,d Comprehensive Health Lab , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Majid Ahmadi
- e Stem Cell Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- f Department of Immunology, School of Medicine , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,g Immunology Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- e Stem Cell Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,f Department of Immunology, School of Medicine , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
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26
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Gohil SH, Evans R, Harasser M, El-Kholy M, Paredes-Moscosso SR, Della Peruta M, Nathwani AC. Ibrutinib enhances the efficacy of ROR1 bispecific T cell engager mediated cytotoxicity in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Br J Haematol 2019; 186:380-382. [PMID: 30957227 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.15911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Satyen H Gohil
- Department of Academic Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Rachel Evans
- Department of Academic Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Micaela Harasser
- Department of Academic Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Mohamed El-Kholy
- Department of Academic Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | | | | | - Amit C Nathwani
- Department of Academic Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK.,Katherine Dormandy Haemophilia & Thrombosis Centre, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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27
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Karvonen H, Perttilä R, Niininen W, Barker H, Ungureanu D. Targeting Wnt signaling pseudokinases in hematological cancers. Eur J Haematol 2018; 101:457-465. [DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Karvonen
- BioMediTech Institute; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Robert Perttilä
- BioMediTech Institute; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Wilhelmiina Niininen
- BioMediTech Institute; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Harlan Barker
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Daniela Ungureanu
- BioMediTech Institute; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
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28
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Pol JG, Lévesque S, Workenhe ST, Gujar S, Le Boeuf F, Clements DR, Fahrner JE, Fend L, Bell JC, Mossman KL, Fucikova J, Spisek R, Zitvogel L, Kroemer G, Galluzzi L. Trial Watch: Oncolytic viro-immunotherapy of hematologic and solid tumors. Oncoimmunology 2018; 7:e1503032. [PMID: 30524901 PMCID: PMC6279343 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2018.1503032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses selectively target and kill cancer cells in an immunogenic fashion, thus supporting the establishment of therapeutically relevant tumor-specific immune responses. In 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the oncolytic herpes simplex virus T-VEC for use in advanced melanoma patients. Since then, a plethora of trials has been initiated to assess the safety and efficacy of multiple oncolytic viruses in patients affected with various malignancies. Here, we summarize recent preclinical and clinical progress in the field of oncolytic virotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan G. Pol
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, Paris, France
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie/Paris VI, Paris, France
| | - Sarah Lévesque
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, Paris, France
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie/Paris VI, Paris, France
| | - Samuel T. Workenhe
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Shashi Gujar
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, NS, Canada
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, NS, Canada
- Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Health Sciences Research, Quality and System Performance, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Fabrice Le Boeuf
- Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jean-Eudes Fahrner
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, Villejuif, France
- Transgene S.A., Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
| | | | - John C. Bell
- Cancer Therapeutics, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Karen L. Mossman
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jitka Fucikova
- Sotio a.c., Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Spisek
- Sotio a.c., Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Laurence Zitvogel
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, Villejuif, France
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Villejuif, France
- INSERM, Paris, France
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie/Paris VI, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Université Paris Descartes/Paris V, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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29
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Townsend MH, Shrestha G, Robison RA, O’Neill KL. The expansion of targetable biomarkers for CAR T cell therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2018; 37:163. [PMID: 30031396 PMCID: PMC6054736 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0817-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers are an integral part of cancer management due to their use in risk assessment, screening, differential diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of response to treatment, and monitoring progress of disease. Recently, with the advent of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, a new category of targetable biomarkers has emerged. These biomarkers are associated with the surface of malignant cells and serve as targets for directing cytotoxic T cells. The first biomarker target used for CAR T cell therapy was CD19, a B cell marker expressed highly on malignant B cells. With the success of CD19, the last decade has shown an explosion of new targetable biomarkers on a range of human malignancies. These surface targets have made it possible to provide directed, specific therapy that reduces healthy tissue destruction and preserves the patient's immune system during treatment. As of May 2018, there are over 100 clinical trials underway that target over 25 different surface biomarkers in almost every human tissue. This expansion has led to not only promising results in terms of patient outcome, but has also led to an exponential growth in the investigation of new biomarkers that could potentially be utilized in CAR T cell therapy for treating patients. In this review, we discuss the biomarkers currently under investigation and point out several promising biomarkers in the preclinical stage of development that may be useful as targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H. Townsend
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
| | - Gajendra Shrestha
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
- Thunder Biotech, Highland, UT USA
| | - Richard A. Robison
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
| | - Kim L. O’Neill
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, 3142 LSB, Provo, UT 84602 USA
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Analysis of ROR1 Protein Expression in Mice with Reconstituted Human Immune System Components. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:2480931. [PMID: 29850623 PMCID: PMC5932492 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2480931] [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: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is an oncofetal antigen expressed on multiple tumors and has no significant expression on normal human tissues. ROR1 is highly upregulated in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) B cells. NOD-scid IL2rg−/− (NSG) mice engrafted with human CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells (huNSG) achieved multilineage human immune cell reconstitution including B cells, T cells, NK cells, and DCs. Like the CLL patients, huNSG mice have abnormally high percentage of CD5-expressing B cells in the periphery. In light of this, we aim to determine whether ROR1 is expressed on huNSG B cells. Using flow cytometry analysis, we found that ROR1 was highly expressed in a proportion of bone marrow, spleen, and blood B cells, which were mostly immature B cells. Transplantation of the oncogene TCL-1-transduced CD34+ cells in neonatal NSG mice did not increase the frequency of ROR1-expressing B cells, but the mouse with the highest engraftment of transduced cells developed a tumor-like lump consisting of a high percentage of ROR1-expressing B cells. This study highlights the potential use of huNSG mice to study B cell malignant diseases and to evaluate immunotherapeutics targeting ROR1.
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Potent and selective antitumor activity of a T cell-engaging bispecific antibody targeting a membrane-proximal epitope of ROR1. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E5467-E5476. [PMID: 29844189 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1719905115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell-engaging bispecific antibodies (biAbs) present a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy, and numerous bispecific formats have been developed for retargeting cytolytic T cells toward tumor cells. To explore the therapeutic utility of T cell-engaging biAbs targeting the receptor tyrosine kinase ROR1, which is expressed by tumor cells of various hematologic and solid malignancies, we used a bispecific ROR1 × CD3 scFv-Fc format based on a heterodimeric and aglycosylated Fc domain designed for extended circulatory t1/2 and diminished systemic T cell activation. A diverse panel of ROR1-targeting scFv derived from immune and naïve rabbit antibody repertoires was compared in this bispecific format for target-dependent T cell recruitment and activation. An ROR1-targeting scFv with a membrane-proximal epitope, R11, revealed potent and selective antitumor activity in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo and emerged as a prime candidate for further preclinical and clinical studies. To elucidate the precise location and engagement of this membrane-proximal epitope, which is conserved between human and mouse ROR1, the 3D structure of scFv R11 in complex with the kringle domain of ROR1 was determined by X-ray crystallography at 1.6-Å resolution.
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Li J, Li W, Huang K, Zhang Y, Kupfer G, Zhao Q. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) immunotherapy for solid tumors: lessons learned and strategies for moving forward. J Hematol Oncol 2018; 11:22. [PMID: 29433552 PMCID: PMC5809840 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-018-0568-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy for the treatment CD19-positive B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. While CAR-T has achieved remarkable success in the treatment of hematopoietic malignancies, whether it can benefit solid tumor patients to the same extent is still uncertain. Even though hundreds of clinical trials are undergoing exploring a variety of tumor-associated antigens (TAA), no such antigen with comparable properties like CD19 has yet been identified regarding solid tumors CAR-T immunotherapy. Inefficient T cell trafficking, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, suboptimal antigen recognition specificity, and lack of safety control are currently considered as the main obstacles in solid tumor CAR-T therapy. Here, we reviewed the solid tumor CAR-T clinical trials, emphasizing the studies with published results. We further discussed the challenges that CAR-T is facing for solid tumor treatment and proposed potential strategies to improve the efficacy of CAR-T as promising immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Li
- School of Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Kejia Huang
- Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610052, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610052, China
| | - Gary Kupfer
- Section of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Qi Zhao
- College of Pharmacy and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China.
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