1
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Esposito M, Amory JK, Kang Y. The pathogenic role of retinoid nuclear receptor signaling in cancer and metabolic syndromes. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20240519. [PMID: 39133222 PMCID: PMC11318670 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20240519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The retinoid nuclear receptor pathway, activated by the vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid, has been extensively investigated for over a century. This study has resulted in conflicting hypotheses about how the pathway regulates health and how it should be pharmaceutically manipulated. These disagreements arise from a fundamental contradiction: retinoid agonists offer clear benefits to select patients with rare bone growth disorders, acute promyelocytic leukemia, and some dermatologic diseases, yet therapeutic retinoid pathway activation frequently causes more harm than good, both through acute metabolic dysregulation and a delayed cancer-promoting effect. In this review, we discuss controlled clinical, mechanistic, and genetic data to suggest several disease settings where inhibition of the retinoid pathway may be a compelling therapeutic strategy, such as solid cancers or metabolic syndromes, and also caution against continued testing of retinoid agonists in cancer patients. Considerable evidence suggests a central role for retinoid regulation of immunity and metabolism, with therapeutic opportunities to antagonize retinoid signaling proposed in cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Esposito
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Kayothera, Inc , Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Yibin Kang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Princeton Branch , Princeton, NJ, USA
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2
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Guo S, Wang Z. Unveiling the immunosuppressive landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: implications for innovative immunotherapy strategies. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1349308. [PMID: 38590651 PMCID: PMC10999533 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1349308] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), stands as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, marked by challenging treatment and dismal prognoses. As immunotherapy emerges as a promising avenue for mitigating PDAC's malignant progression, a comprehensive understanding of the tumor's immunosuppressive characteristics becomes imperative. This paper systematically delves into the intricate immunosuppressive network within PDAC, spotlighting the significant crosstalk between immunosuppressive cells and factors in the hypoxic acidic pancreatic tumor microenvironment. By elucidating these mechanisms, we aim to provide insights into potential immunotherapy strategies and treatment targets, laying the groundwork for future studies on PDAC immunosuppression. Recognizing the profound impact of immunosuppression on PDAC invasion and metastasis, this discussion aims to catalyze the development of more effective and targeted immunotherapies for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songyu Guo
- First Clinical Medical College, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhenxia Wang
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
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3
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Caricasulo MA, Zanetti A, Terao M, Garattini E, Paroni G. Cellular and micro-environmental responses influencing the antitumor activity of all-trans retinoic acid in breast cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:127. [PMID: 38360674 PMCID: PMC10870483 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01492-2] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is the most relevant and functionally active metabolite of Vitamin-A. From a therapeutic standpoint, ATRA is the first example of pharmacological agent exerting its anti-tumor activity via a cell differentiating action. In the clinics, ATRA is used in the treatment of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia, a rare form of myeloid leukemia with unprecedented therapeutic results. The extraordinary effectiveness of ATRA in the treatment of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia patients has raised interest in evaluating the potential of this natural retinoid in the treatment of other types of neoplasias, with particular reference to solid tumors.The present article provides an overview of the available pre-clinical and clinical studies focussing on ATRA as a therapeutic agent in the context of breast cancer from a holistic point of view. In detail, we focus on the direct effects of ATRA in breast cancer cells as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms of action. In addition, we summarize the available information on the action exerted by ATRA on the breast cancer micro-environment, an emerging determinant of the progression and invasive behaviour of solid tumors. In particular we discuss the recent evidences of ATRA activity on the immune system. Finally, we analyse and discuss the results obtained with the few ATRA-based clinical trials conducted in the context of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Azzurra Caricasulo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, Milan, 20156, Italy
| | - Adriana Zanetti
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, Milan, 20156, Italy
| | - Mineko Terao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, Milan, 20156, Italy
| | - Enrico Garattini
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, Milan, 20156, Italy
| | - Gabriela Paroni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, Milan, 20156, Italy.
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4
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Jalil AT, Abdulhadi MA, Al-Marzook FA, Hizam MM, Abdulameer SJ, Al-Azzawi AKJ, Zabibah RS, Fadhil AA. NK cells direct the perspective approaches to cancer immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2023; 40:206. [PMID: 37318610 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02066-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells with cytotoxic potentials to kill cancerous cells in several mechanisms, which could be implied for cancer therapy. While potent, their antitumor activities specially for solid tumors impaired by inadequate tumor infiltration, suppressive tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated stroma cells, and tumor-supportive immune cells. Therefore, manipulating or reprogramming these barriers by prospective strategies might improve current immunotherapies in the clinic or introduce novel NK-based immunotherapies. NK-based immunotherapy could be developed in monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic regimens such as oncolytic virus therapy and immune checkpoint blockade, as presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Department of Medical Laboratories Techniques, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, Iraq.
| | - Mohanad Ali Abdulhadi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | - Farah A Al-Marzook
- College of Medical and Health Technologies, Al-Zahraa University for Women, Karbala, 56100, Iraq
| | | | - Sada Jasim Abdulameer
- Biology Department, College of Education for Pure Science, Wasit University, Kut, Wasit, Iraq
| | | | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ali A Fadhil
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
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5
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Lu Z, Liu H, Ma L, Ren K, He Z, Li M, He Q. Micellar nanoparticles inhibit breast cancer and pulmonary metastasis by modulating the recruitment and depletion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:17315-17330. [PMID: 36374496 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr03880c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are notorious for their pathological characteristics of immunosuppression and their promoting effect on cancers. They can induce the formation of pre-metastatic niche (PMN) characterized by inflammation, immunosuppression and vascular leakage, and promote pulmonary metastasis of breast cancer. Herein, a tumor targeting c(RGDfk) peptide modified low molecular-weight-heparin-all-trans-retinoic-acid (LMWH-ATRA) micellar nanoparticle loaded with chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX) and immune adjuvant α-galactosylceramide (αGC) (RLA/DOX/αGC NP) was developed. The hydrophilic segment LMWH inhibited the recruitment of MDSCs by competitively binding with P-selectin on the surface of vascular endothelial cells (VECs), while the hydrophobic segment ATRA promoted the depletion of MDSCs by inducing their differentiation. Through the modulation of MDSCs, micelles can significantly improve the inflammatory and immunosuppressive microenvironment of the lung and tumor sites, and inhibit the formation of PMN. Not only this, the micelles also produced a synergistic effect with αGC, which effectively improved the anti-tumor immunity of tumor bearing mice and provided a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer and pulmonary metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengze Lu
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Houqin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ling Ma
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kebai Ren
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhidi He
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Man Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Tong L, Jiménez-Cortegana C, Tay AHM, Wickström S, Galluzzi L, Lundqvist A. NK cells and solid tumors: therapeutic potential and persisting obstacles. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:206. [PMID: 36319998 PMCID: PMC9623927 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01672-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, which are innate lymphocytes endowed with potent cytotoxic activity, have recently attracted attention as potential anticancer therapeutics. While NK cells mediate encouraging responses in patients with leukemia, the therapeutic effects of NK cell infusion in patients with solid tumors are limited. Preclinical and clinical data suggest that the efficacy of NK cell infusion against solid malignancies is hampered by several factors including inadequate tumor infiltration and persistence/activation in the tumor microenvironment (TME). A number of metabolic features of the TME including hypoxia as well as elevated levels of adenosine, reactive oxygen species, and prostaglandins negatively affect NK cell activity. Moreover, cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells actively suppress NK cell-dependent anticancer immunity. Here, we review the metabolic and cellular barriers that inhibit NK cells in solid neoplasms as we discuss potential strategies to circumvent such obstacles towards superior therapeutic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Tong
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carlos Jiménez-Cortegana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Apple H M Tay
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biological Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Stina Wickström
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Andreas Lundqvist
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
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7
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Lu Z, Ma L, Mei L, Ren K, Li M, Zhang L, Liu X, He Q. Micellar nanoparticles inhibit the postoperative inflammation, recurrence and pulmonary metastasis of 4T1 breast cancer by blocking NF-κB pathway and promoting MDSCs depletion. Int J Pharm 2022; 628:122303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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8
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van Geffen C, Heiss C, Deißler A, Kolahian S. Pharmacological modulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells to dampen inflammation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:933847. [PMID: 36110844 PMCID: PMC9468781 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.933847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous cell population with potent suppressive and regulative properties. MDSCs’ strong immunosuppressive potential creates new possibilities to treat chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases or induce tolerance towards transplantation. Here, we summarize and critically discuss different pharmacological approaches which modulate the generation, activation, and recruitment of MDSCs in vitro and in vivo, and their potential role in future immunosuppressive therapy.
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9
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Chen Y, Liu H, Zheng Q, Li H, You H, Feng Y, Feng W. Promotion of tumor progression induced by continuous low-dose administration of antineoplastic agent gemcitabine or gemcitabine combined with cisplatin. Life Sci 2022; 306:120826. [PMID: 35870618 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES There are indications that certain antineoplastic agents at low dosages may exhibit abnormal pharmacological actions, such as promoting tumor growth. However, the phenomenon still needs to be further confirmed, and its underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. METHODS Gemcitabine (GEM) and cisplatin (CDDP) were employed as representative antineoplastic agents to observe effects of continuous low-dose chemotherapy with GEM or GEM combined with CDDP (GEM+CDDP) on tumor formation and growthin xenograft tumor models in vivo. Tumor and endothelial cell functions, apoptosis, cell cycle analysis, as well as bone marrow derived cells (BMDCs) mobilization, were evaluated with transwell, MTT or flow cytometry analysis in vitro, respectively. Histological methods were employed to assess angiogenesis in tumor tissues. RESULTS The results showed that tumor formation and growth were both significantly promoted by GEM or GEM+CDDP at as low as half of the metronomic dosages, which were accompanied by enhancements of angiogenesis in tumor tissues and the release of proangiogenic BMDCs in the circulating blood. Additionally, GEM or GEM+CDDP at low concentrations dramatically facilitated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of tumor cells in vitro. Cell-cycle arrest, activation of associated apoptotic proteins, and inhibition of apoptosis were also observed in tumor cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that, the continuous low-dose administration of GEM and GEM+CDDP can promote tumorigenesis and tumor progression in vivo by inhibiting apoptosis, mobilizing BMDCs, and promoting angiogenesis in certain dose ranges. These findings urge further investigations to avoid the potential risks in current empiric continuous low-dose chemotherapy regimens with antineoplastic agents. MAJOR FINDING This study observes a previously neglected pharmacological phenomenon and investigates its mechanism of that the continuous low-dose administration of some antineoplastic agents in certain dose ranges can promote tumorigenesis and tumor progression in vitro and in vivo, through stimulation of tumor cell functions directly as well as enhancement of tumor angiogenesis by BMDCs recruitment indirectly. The results alert to a potential risk in current empirically based continuous low-dose chemotherapy regimens such as metronomic chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshen Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Jiefang South Road 283 th, Yancheng 224005, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Qiaowei Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Houli Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Huining You
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yan Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Weiyi Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, PR China.
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10
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Bi G, Liang J, Bian Y, Shan G, Besskaya V, Wang Q, Zhan C. The immunomodulatory role of all-trans retinoic acid in tumor microenvironment. Clin Exp Med 2022:10.1007/s10238-022-00860-x. [PMID: 35829844 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00860-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Retinoids are essential nutrients for human beings. Among them, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), considered one of the most active metabolites, plays important roles in multiple biological processes. ATRA regulates the transcription of target genes by interacting with nuclear receptors bonded to retinoic acid response elements (RAREs). Besides its differentiation-inducing effect in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia and some solid tumor types, its immunoregulatory role in tumor microenvironment (TME) has attracted considerable attention. ATRA not only substantially abrogates the immunosuppressive effect of tumor-infiltrating myeloid-derived suppressor cells but also activates the anti-tumor effect of CD8 + T cells. Notably, the combination of ATRA with other therapeutic approaches, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), tumor vaccines, and chemotherapy, has been extensively investigated in a variety of tumor models and clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the role of ATRA in cancer immunology and immunotherapy, dissect the underlying mechanisms of ATRA-mediated activation or differentiation of different types of immune cells, and explore the potential clinical significance of ATRA-based cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoshu Bi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiaqi Liang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yunyi Bian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guangyao Shan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Valeria Besskaya
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cheng Zhan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180 Fenglin Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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11
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Li Y, Wang J, Wang H, Zhang S, Wei Y, Liu S. The Interplay Between Inflammation and Stromal Components in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:850093. [PMID: 35493517 PMCID: PMC9046560 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.850093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation involves interactions between various immune cells, inflammatory cells, chemokines and cytokines in pancreatic cancer. Cancer cells as well as surrounding stromal and inflammatory cells establish an inflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME). Inflammation is closely associated with immunity. Meanwhile, immune cells are involved in both inflammation and immune response. Tumor-promoting inflammation and tumor-suppressive immunity are two main characteristics of the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. Yet, the mechanism of inflammation and immune response in pancreatic cancer development is still unclear due to the dual role of some cytokines and the complicated crosstalk between tumor and stromal components in TME. In this review, we outline the principal cytokines and stromal cells in the pancreatic TME that are involved in the tumor-promoting and immunosuppressive effects of inflammation, and discuss the interaction between inflammation and stromal components in pancreatic cancer progression. Moreover, the clinical approaches based on targeting TME in pancreatic cancer are also summarized. Defining the mechanisms of interplay between inflammation and stromal components will be essential for further development of anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Operating Room, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shaoqiang Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yingxin Wei
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shanglong Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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12
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Rytlewski J, Milhem MM, Monga V. Turning 'Cold' tumors 'Hot': immunotherapies in sarcoma. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1039. [PMID: 34277839 PMCID: PMC8267323 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-6041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapies have an established role in the management of several advanced malignancies. Their responses are largely dependent on the presence of PD-L1, microsatellite instability (MSI), and high tumor mutation burden. Sarcomas are heterogenous tumors which comprise over 100 subtypes. They are broadly considered immunologically inert or “cold”. Immunotherapy as monotherapy has shown interesting responses in a certain handful of subtypes, such as undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, dedifferentiated and pleomorphic liposarcoma, and alveolar soft part sarcoma. However, the mechanisms of action of immunotherapy agents in several sarcoma subtypes remains unknown. Several sarcoma types such as leiomyosarcoma have been shown to have an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Early clinical studies suggest the emergence of B cell infiltration in sarcoma tumor tissues as well as the role of PD-1 and PD-L1 as biomarkers of response. Immunotherapy combinations with conventional chemotherapies, radiation therapies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and oncolytic viruses are showing promise in turning these “cold” tumors “hot”. Several novel agents as well as repurposing therapies with the potential to enhance immunotherapy responses are undergoing pre-clinical and clinical studies in other tumor types. Herein we review current clinical studies which have explored the use of immunotherapeutic agents in the management of sarcomas and discuss the challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Rytlewski
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mohammed M Milhem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Varun Monga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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13
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Mandula JK, Rodriguez PC. Tumor-related stress regulates functional plasticity of MDSCs. Cell Immunol 2021; 363:104312. [PMID: 33652258 PMCID: PMC8026602 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) impair protective anti-tumor immunity and remain major obstacles that stymie the effectiveness of promising cancer therapies. Diverse tumor-derived stressors galvanize the differentiation, intra-tumoral expansion, and immunomodulatory function of MDSCs. These tumor-associated 'axes of stress' underwrite the immunosuppressive programming of MDSCs in cancer and contribute to the phenotypic/functional heterogeneity that characterize tumor-MDSCs. This review discusses various tumor-associated axes of stress that direct MDSC development, accumulation, and immunosuppressive function, as well as current strategies aimed at overcoming the detrimental impact of MDSCs in cancer. To better understand the constellation of signals directing MDSC biology, we herein summarize the pivotal roles, signaling mediators, and effects of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species-related stress, chronic inflammatory stress, hypoxia-linked stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, metabolic stress, and therapy-associated stress on MDSCs. Although therapeutic targeting of these processes remains mostly pre-clinical, intercepting signaling through the axes of stress could overcome MDSC-related immune suppression in tumor-bearing hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Mandula
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Paulo C Rodriguez
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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14
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Leukes VN, Dorhoi A, Malherbe ST, Maasdorp E, Khoury J, McAnda S, Walzl G, du Plessis N. Targeting of myeloid-derived suppressor cells by all-trans retinoic acid as host-directed therapy for human tuberculosis. Cell Immunol 2021; 364:104359. [PMID: 33865151 PMCID: PMC8493473 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Conventional anti-tuberculosis (TB) therapies comprise lengthy antibiotic treatment regimens, exacerbated by multi-drug resistant and extensively drug resistant mycobacterial strains. We assessed the ability of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), as repurposed compound serving as host-directed therapy (HDT), to counteract the suppressive effects of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) obtained from active TB cases (untreated or during week one of treatment) on T-cell responsiveness. We show for the first time that MDSCs suppress non-specific T-cell activation and production of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-13 and GM-CSF via contact-dependent mechanisms. ATRA treatment decreases MDSC frequency, but fails to mature MDSCs to non-suppressive, terminally differentiated myeloid cells and does not restore T-cell function or cytokine production in the presence of MDSCs. The impact of ATRA treatment on improved immunity, using the concentration tested here, is likely to be minimal, but further identification and development of MDSC-targeting TB host-directed therapies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzeigh N Leukes
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anca Dorhoi
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephanus T Malherbe
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elizna Maasdorp
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Justine Khoury
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shirley McAnda
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gerhard Walzl
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nelita du Plessis
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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15
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Comments on the ambiguity of selected surface markers, signaling pathways and omics profiles hampering the identification of myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Cell Immunol 2021; 364:104347. [PMID: 33838447 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are important immune-regulatory cells but their identification remains difficult. Here, we provide a critical view on selected surface markers, transcriptional and translational pathways commonly used to identify MDSC by specific, their developmental origin and new possibilities by transcriptional or proteomic profiling. Discrimination of MDSC from their non-suppressive counterparts is a prerequisite for the development of successful therapies. Understanding the switch mechanisms that direct granulocytic and monocytic development into a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory direction will be crucial for therapeutic strategies. Manipulation of these myeloid checkpoints are exploited by tumors and pathogens, such as M. tuberculosis (Mtb), HIV or SARS-CoV-2, that induce MDSC for immune evasion. Thus, specific markers for MDSC identification may reveal also novel molecular candidates for therapeutic intervention at the level of MDSC.
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16
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Liu P, Peng C, Chen X, Wu L, Yin M, Li J, Qin Q, Kuang Y, Zhu W. Acitretin Promotes the Differentiation of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in the Treatment of Psoriasis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:625130. [PMID: 33834031 PMCID: PMC8021725 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.625130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased numbers of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are involved in the development of psoriasis. Acitretin is used to treat psoriasis by regulating the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, but little is known about the effect of acitretin on immune cells. Here, we reported that psoriasis patients had an expansion of MDSCs and monocytic-MDSCs (M-MDSCs) in peripheral blood and skin lesions. The number of MDSCs and M-MDSCs in peripheral blood correlated positively with disease severity. Acitretin could reduce the number of MDSCs and M-MDSCs in the peripheral blood of psoriasis patients as well as the spleen and skin lesions of IMQ-induced psoriasis-like model mice. Moreover, acitretin promoted the differentiation of MDSCs into macrophages, especially CD206+ M2 macrophages, and CD11c+MHC-II+ dendritic cells. Mechanically, acitretin dramatically increased the glutathione synthase (GSS) expression and glutathione (GSH) accumulation in MDSCs. Interruption of GSH synthesis abrogated the acitretin effect on MDSCs differentiation. Acitretin regulated GSS expression via activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2. Thus, our data demonstrated a novel mechanism underlying the effects of acitretin on psoriasis by promoting MDSCs differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Liu
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Cong Peng
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
- Gerontology Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lisha Wu
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Mingzhu Yin
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Li
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Qunshi Qin
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Yehong Kuang
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Wu Zhu
- The Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, China
- Gerontology Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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17
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Yin K, Xia X, Rui K, Wang T, Wang S. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: A New and Pivotal Player in Colorectal Cancer Progression. Front Oncol 2020; 10:610104. [PMID: 33384962 PMCID: PMC7770157 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.610104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a devastating human malignancy with poor prognosis. Of the various factors, immune evasion mechanisms play pivotal roles in CRC progression and impede the effects of cancer therapy. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) constitute an immature population of myeloid cells that are typical during tumor progression. These cells have the ability to induce strong immunosuppressive effects within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and promote CRC development. Indeed, MDSCs have been shown to accumulate in both tumor-bearing mice and CRC patients, and may therefore become an obstacle for cancer immunotherapy. Consequently, numerous studies have focused on the characterization of MDSCs and their immunosuppressive capacity, as well as developing novel approaches to suppress MDSCs function with different approaches. Current therapeutic strategies that target MDSCs in CRC include inhibition of their recruitment and alteration of their function, alone or in combination with other therapies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Herein, we summarize the recent roles and mechanisms of MDSCs in CRC progression. In addition, a brief review of MDSC-targeting approaches for potential CRC therapy is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xueli Xia
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Ke Rui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Children's Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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Targeting Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092626. [PMID: 32942545 PMCID: PMC7564060 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) have been regarded as the main promoters of cancer development in recent years. They can protect tumor cells from being eliminated by neutralizing the anti-tumor response mediated by T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Therefore, different treatment methods targeting MDSCs, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, have been developed and proven to effectively inhibit tumor expansion. Herein, we summarize the immunosuppressive role of MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment and some effective treatments targeting MDSCs, and discuss the differences between different therapies. Abstract Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which are activated under pathological conditions, are a group of heterogeneous immature myeloid cells. MDSCs have potent capacities to support tumor growth via inhibition of the antitumoral immune response and/or the induction of immunosuppressive cells. In addition, multiple studies have demonstrated that MDSCs provide potential therapeutic targets for the elimination of immunosuppressive functions and the inhibition of tumor growth. The combination of targeting MDSCs and other therapeutic approaches has also demonstrated powerful antitumor effects. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and current strategies of cancer treatment by targeting MDSCs.
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19
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Quercetin promotes the survival of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells via the ESR2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 125:109922. [PMID: 32007919 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.109922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Quercetin is a natural product that has been shown to induce tumor apoptosis and necrosis through multiple mechanisms. Tumor-induced myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) expansion negatively regulates the immune response by inhibiting T cell function through signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation, thereby facilitating tumor escape from host immune surveillance. Thus MDSC is an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy to enhance cytotoxic T cell responses. However, the effects of quercetin on MDSC are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that quercetin treatment enhanced mouse- and human- derived granulocytic-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSC) survival and promoted the secretion of T cell-suppressive factors in vitro. Bioinformatics analysis further showed that quercetin was highly correlated with the estrogen receptor signaling pathway, which was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometric analysis. These findings highlight the potential advantages and feasibility of quercetin in reinforcing the suppressive property of G-MDSC. Thus impact of G-MDSC should be taken into consideration when quercetin is applied to tumor therapy.
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20
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Lim J, Lee A, Lee HG, Lim JS. Modulation of Immunosuppression by Oligonucleotide-Based Molecules and Small Molecules Targeting Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2020; 28:1-17. [PMID: 31431006 PMCID: PMC6939693 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2019.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature myeloid cells that exert suppressive function on the immune response. MDSCs expand in tumor-bearing hosts or in the tumor microenvironment and suppress T cell responses via various mechanisms, whereas a reduction in their activities has been observed in autoimmune diseases or infections. It has been reported that the symptoms of various diseases, including malignant tumors, can be alleviated by targeting MDSCs. Moreover, MDSCs can contribute to patient resistance to therapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors. In line with these therapeutic approaches, diverse oligonucleotide-based molecules and small molecules have been evaluated for their therapeutic efficacy in several disease models via the modulation of MDSC activity. In the current review, MDSC-targeting oligonucleotides and small molecules are briefly summarized, and we highlight the immunomodulatory effects on MDSCs in a variety of disease models and the application of MDSC-targeting molecules for immuno-oncologic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Lim
- Department of Biological Science, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Aram Lee
- Department of Biological Science, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Gu Lee
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Seok Lim
- Department of Biological Science, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea.,Cellular Heterogeneity Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
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21
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Bretz AC, Parnitzke U, Kronthaler K, Dreker T, Bartz R, Hermann F, Ammendola A, Wulff T, Hamm S. Domatinostat favors the immunotherapy response by modulating the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). J Immunother Cancer 2019; 7:294. [PMID: 31703604 PMCID: PMC6839078 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-019-0745-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The efficacy of PD-(L)1 blockade depends on the composition of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and is generally higher in tumors with pre-existing cytotoxic T cells (CTL) than in those with low CTL numbers. Nonetheless, a significant proportion of patients with pre-existing immunity fail to respond, indicating a therapeutic potential for combining PD-(L)1 blockade with additional immunomodulatory agents in both CTL-high and -low immune phenotypes. Here, we evaluated domatinostat (4SC-202), a class I-selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, for its effect on the TIME and its antitumoral efficacy using syngeneic mouse models with CTL-high or CTL-low tumors. Methods Domatinostat was evaluated in PD-1 blockade-insensitive CTL-low (CT26) and CTL-high (C38) syngeneic models alone and in combination with different immune-inhibitory and -stimulatory approaches. Effects on the immunophenotype were assessed via flow cytometry and RNA-seq analyses. The changes in RNA-seq-based immune signatures determined in a murine setting were investigated in patient samples from the first-dose cohort of the SENSITIZE trial (NCT03278665) evaluating domatinostat combined with pembrolizumab in advanced-stage melanoma patients refractory/nonresponding to PD-1 blockade. Results Domatinostat increased the expression of antigen-presenting machinery (APM) genes and MHC class I and II molecules, along with CTL infiltration, in tumors of both immune phenotypes. In combination with PD-(L)1 blockade, domatinostat augmented antitumor effects substantially above the effects of single-agent therapies, displaying greater benefit in tumors with pre-existing CTLs. In this setting, the combination of domatinostat with agonistic anti-4-1BB or both PD-1 and LAG3 blockade further increased the antitumor efficacy. In CTL-low tumors, domatinostat enhanced the expression of genes known to reinforce immune responses against tumors. Specifically, domatinostat increased the expression of Ifng and genes associated with responses to pembrolizumab and nivolumab. Clinically, these findings were confirmed in patients with advanced melanoma treated with domatinostat for 14 days, who demonstrated elevated expression of APM and MHC genes, the IFNG gene, and the IFN-γ and pembrolizumab response signatures in individual tumor samples. Conclusion In summary, these data suggest a promising potential of domatinostat in combination with immunotherapy to improve the outcome of refractory cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tobias Dreker
- 4SC AG, Fraunhoferstr. 22, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - René Bartz
- 4SC AG, Fraunhoferstr. 22, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Frank Hermann
- 4SC AG, Fraunhoferstr. 22, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Tanja Wulff
- 4SC AG, Fraunhoferstr. 22, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Svetlana Hamm
- 4SC AG, Fraunhoferstr. 22, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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22
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Zhang W, Lu X, Cui P, Piao C, Xiao M, Liu X, Wang Y, Wu X, Liu J, Yang L. Phase I/II clinical trial of a Wilms' tumor 1-targeted dendritic cell vaccination-based immunotherapy in patients with advanced cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:121-130. [PMID: 30306202 PMCID: PMC11028035 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-018-2257-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based immunotherapies have been created for a broad expanse of cancers, and DC vaccines prepared with Wilms' tumor protein 1 (WT1) peptides have shown great therapeutic efficacy in these diseases. In this paper, we report the results of a phase I/II study of a DC-based vaccination for advanced breast, ovarian, and gastric cancers, and we offer evidence that patients can be effectively vaccinated with autologous DCs pulsed with WT1 peptide. There were ten patients who took part in this clinical study; they were treated biweekly with a WT1 peptide-pulsed DC vaccination, with toxicity and clinical and immunological responses as the principal endpoints. All of the adverse events to DC vaccinations were tolerable under an adjuvant setting. The clinical response was stable disease in seven patients. Karnofsky Performance Scale scores were enhanced, and computed tomography scans revealed tumor shrinkage in three of seven patients. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)/WT1-tetramer and cytoplasmic IFN-γ assays were used to examine the induction of a WT-1-specific immune response. The immunological responses to DC vaccination were significantly correlated with fewer myeloid-derived suppressor cells (P = 0.045) in the pretreated peripheral blood. These outcomes offered initial clinical evidence that the WT1 peptide-pulsed DC vaccination is a potential treatment for advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 South Lane, Panjiayuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Xu Lu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Biohealthcare Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, FL2, Building 3, Park B, Shunyi District Airport High Tech Zoon, Beijing, 101300, China
| | - Peilin Cui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Chunmei Piao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Man Xiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 571199, China
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Biohealthcare Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, FL2, Building 3, Park B, Shunyi District Airport High Tech Zoon, Beijing, 101300, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Biohealthcare Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, FL2, Building 3, Park B, Shunyi District Airport High Tech Zoon, Beijing, 101300, China
| | - Xuan Wu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Biohealthcare Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, FL2, Building 3, Park B, Shunyi District Airport High Tech Zoon, Beijing, 101300, China
| | - Jingwei Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Biohealthcare Biotechnology Co.,Ltd, FL2, Building 3, Park B, Shunyi District Airport High Tech Zoon, Beijing, 101300, China.
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 17 South Lane, Panjiayuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100021, China.
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23
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The Potential for Cancer Immunotherapy in Targeting Surgery-Induced Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 11:cancers11010002. [PMID: 30577463 PMCID: PMC6356325 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are granular lymphocytes of the innate immune system that are able to recognize and kill tumor cells without undergoing clonal selection. Discovered over 40 years ago, they have since been recognized to possess both cytotoxic and cytokine-producing effector functions. Following trauma, NK cells are suppressed and their effector functions are impaired. This is especially important for cancer patients undergoing the removal of solid tumors, as surgery has shown to contribute to the development of metastasis and cancer recurrence postoperatively. We have recently shown that NK cells are critical mediators in the formation of metastasis after surgery. While research into the mechanism(s) responsible for NK cell dysfunction is ongoing, knowledge of these mechanisms will pave the way for perioperative therapeutics with the potential to improve cancer outcomes by reversing NK cell dysfunction. This review will discuss mechanisms of suppression in the postoperative environment, including hypercoagulability, suppressive soluble factors, the expansion of suppressive cell populations, and how this affects NK cell biology, including modulation of cell surface receptors, the potential for anergy, and immunosuppressive NK cell functions. This review will also outline potential immunotherapies to reverse postoperative NK dysfunction, with the goal of preventing surgery-induced metastasis.
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24
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Abdelhamid L, Luo XM. Retinoic Acid, Leaky Gut, and Autoimmune Diseases. Nutrients 2018; 10:E1016. [PMID: 30081517 PMCID: PMC6115935 DOI: 10.3390/nu10081016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A leaky gut has been observed in a number of autoimmune diseases including type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that lupus mice also bear a leaky gut and that the intestinal barrier function can be enhanced by gut colonization of probiotics such as Lactobacillus spp. Retinoic acid (RA) can increase the relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. in the gut. Interestingly, RA has also been shown to strengthen the barrier function of epithelial cells in vitro and in the absence of probiotic bacteria. These reports bring up an interesting question of whether RA exerts protective effects on the intestinal barrier directly or through regulating the microbiota colonization. In this review, we will discuss the roles of RA in immunomodulation, recent literature on the involvement of a leaky gut in different autoimmune diseases, and how RA shapes the outcomes of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Abdelhamid
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
| | - Xin M Luo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
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