1
|
Guelfi S, Hodivala-Dilke K, Bergers G. Targeting the tumour vasculature: from vessel destruction to promotion. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:655-675. [PMID: 39210063 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00736-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
As angiogenesis was recognized as a core hallmark of cancer growth and survival, several strategies have been implemented to target the tumour vasculature. Yet to date, attempts have rarely been so diverse, ranging from vessel growth inhibition and destruction to vessel normalization, reprogramming and vessel growth promotion. Some of these strategies, combined with standard of care, have translated into improved cancer therapies, but their successes are constrained to certain cancer types. This Review provides an overview of these vascular targeting approaches and puts them into context based on our subsequent improved understanding of the tumour vasculature as an integral part of the tumour microenvironment with which it is functionally interlinked. This new knowledge has already led to dual targeting of the vascular and immune cell compartments and sets the scene for future investigations of possible alternative approaches that consider the vascular link with other tumour microenvironment components for improved cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Guelfi
- Department of Oncology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kairbaan Hodivala-Dilke
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK.
| | - Gabriele Bergers
- Department of Oncology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang KT, Wagner LE, Takano T, Lin XX, Bagavant H, Deshmukh U, Yule DI. Dysregulated Ca 2+ signaling, fluid secretion, and mitochondrial function in a mouse model of early Sjögren's disease. eLife 2024; 13:RP97069. [PMID: 39259200 PMCID: PMC11390111 DOI: 10.7554/elife.97069] [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] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms leading to saliva secretion are largely established, but factors that underlie secretory hypofunction, specifically related to the autoimmune disease Sjögren's syndrome (SS) are not fully understood. A major conundrum is the lack of association between the severity of salivary gland immune cell infiltration and glandular hypofunction. SS-like disease was induced by treatment with DMXAA, a small molecule agonist of murine STING. We have previously shown that the extent of salivary secretion is correlated with the magnitude of intracellular Ca2+ signals (Takano et al., 2021). Contrary to our expectations, despite a significant reduction in fluid secretion, neural stimulation resulted in enhanced Ca2+ signals with altered spatiotemporal characteristics in vivo. Muscarinic stimulation resulted in reduced activation of the Ca2+-activated Cl- channel, TMEM16a, although there were no changes in channel abundance or absolute sensitivity to Ca2+. Super-resolution microscopy revealed a disruption in the colocalization of Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor Ca2+ release channels with TMEM16a, and channel activation was reduced when intracellular Ca2+ buffering was increased. These data indicate altered local peripheral coupling between the channels. Appropriate Ca2+ signaling is also pivotal for mitochondrial morphology and bioenergetics. Disrupted mitochondrial morphology and reduced oxygen consumption rate were observed in DMXAA-treated animals. In summary, early in SS disease, dysregulated Ca2+ signals lead to decreased fluid secretion and disrupted mitochondrial function contributing to salivary gland hypofunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Ting Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, United States
| | - Larry E Wagner
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, United States
| | - Takahiro Takano
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, United States
| | - Xiao-Xuan Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, United States
| | - Harini Bagavant
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - Umesh Deshmukh
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - David I Yule
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Paulis A, Onali A, Vidalain PO, Lotteau V, Jaquemin C, Corona A, Distinto S, Delogu GL, Tramontano E. Identification of new benzofuran derivatives as STING agonists with broad-spectrum antiviral activity. Virus Res 2024; 347:199432. [PMID: 38969014 PMCID: PMC11294726 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199432] [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: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) is involved in cytosolic DNA sensing and type I Interferons (IFN-I) induction. Aiming to identify new STING agonists with antiviral activity and given the known biological activity of benzothiazole and benzimidazole derivatives, a series of benzofuran derivatives were tested for their ability to act as STING agonists, induce IFN-I and inhibit viral replication. Compounds were firstly evaluated in a gene reporter assay measuring luciferase activity driven by the human IFN-β promoter in cells expressing exogenous STING (HEK293T). Seven of them were able to induce IFN-β transcription while no induction of the IFN promoter was observed in the presence of a mutated and inactive STING, showing specific protein-ligand interaction. Docking studies were performed to predict their putative binding mode. The best hit compounds were then tested on human coronavirus 229E replication in BEAS-2B and MRC-5 cells and three derivatives showed EC50 values in the μM range. Such compounds were also tested on SARS-CoV-2 replication in BEAS-2B cells and in Calu-3 showing they can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication at nanomolar concentrations. To further confirm their IFN-dependent antiviral activity, compounds were tested to verify their effect on phospho-IRF3 nuclear localization, that was found to be induced by benzofuran derivatives, and SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells, lacking IFN production, founding them to be inactive. In conclusion, we identified benzofurans as STING-dependent immunostimulatory compounds and host-targeting inhibitors of coronaviruses representing a novel chemical scaffold for the development of broad-spectrum antivirals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Paulis
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - A Onali
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - P O Vidalain
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - V Lotteau
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - C Jaquemin
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - A Corona
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - S Distinto
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy.
| | - G L Delogu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - E Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Huang KT, Wagner LE, Takano T, Lin XX, Bagavant H, Deshmukh U, Yule DI. Dysregulated Ca 2+ signaling, fluid secretion, and mitochondrial function in a mouse model of early Sjögren's syndrome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.19.585719. [PMID: 38562738 PMCID: PMC10983907 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.19.585719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Saliva is essential for oral health. The molecular mechanisms leading to physiological fluid secretion are largely established, but factors that underlie secretory hypofunction, specifically related to the autoimmune disease Sjögren's syndrome (SS) are not fully understood. A major conundrum is the lack of association between the severity of inflammatory immune cell infiltration within the salivary glands and glandular hypofunction. In this study, we investigated in a mouse model system, mechanisms of glandular hypofunction caused by the activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. Glandular hypofunction and SS-like disease were induced by treatment with 5,6-Dimethyl-9-oxo-9H-xanthene-4-acetic acid (DMXAA), a small molecule agonist of murine STING. Contrary to our expectations, despite a significant reduction in fluid secretion in DMXAA-treated mice, in vivo imaging demonstrated that neural stimulation resulted in greatly enhanced spatially averaged cytosolic Ca2+ levels. Notably, however, the spatiotemporal characteristics of the Ca2+ signals were altered to signals that propagated throughout the entire cytoplasm as opposed to largely apically confined Ca2+ rises observed without treatment. Despite the augmented Ca2+ signals, muscarinic stimulation resulted in reduced activation of TMEM16a, although there were no changes in channel abundance or absolute sensitivity to Ca2+. However, super-resolution microscopy revealed a disruption in the intimate colocalization of Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor Ca2+ release channels in relation to TMEM16a. TMEM16a channel activation was also reduced when intracellular Ca2+ buffering was increased. These data are consistent with altered local coupling between the channels contributing to the reduced activation of TMEM16a. Appropriate Ca2+ signaling is also pivotal for mitochondrial morphology and bioenergetics and secretion is an energetically expensive process. Disrupted mitochondrial morphology, a depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced oxygen consumption rate were observed in DMXAA-treated animals compared to control animals. We report that early in SS disease, dysregulated Ca2+ signals lead to decreased fluid secretion and disrupted mitochondrial function contributing to salivary gland hypofunction and likely the progression of SS disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Ting Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY. 14526
| | - Larry E. Wagner
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY. 14526
| | - Takahiro Takano
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY. 14526
| | - Xiao-Xuan Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY. 14526
| | - Harini Bagavant
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13 Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Umesh Deshmukh
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13 Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - David I. Yule
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY. 14526
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang MM, Choi MR, Battistella C, Gattis B, Qiao B, Evangelopoulos M, Mirkin CA, Olvera de la Cruz M, Zhang B, Gianneschi NC. Proteomimetic Polymers Trigger Potent Antigen-Specific T Cell Responses to Limit Tumor Growth. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:14959-14971. [PMID: 38781575 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c05340] [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: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Elicitation of effective antitumor immunity following cancer vaccination requires the selective activation of distinct effector cell populations and pathways. Here we report a therapeutic approach for generating potent T cell responses using a modular vaccination platform technology capable of inducing directed immune activation, termed the Protein-like Polymer (PLP). PLPs demonstrate increased proteolytic resistance, high uptake by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), and enhanced payload-specific T cell responses. Key design parameters, namely payload linkage chemistry, degree of polymerization, and side chain composition, were varied to optimize vaccine formulations. Linking antigens to the polymer backbone using an intracellularly cleaved disulfide bond copolymerized with a diluent amount of oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG) resulted in the highest payload-specific potentiation of antigen immunogenicity, enhancing dendritic cell (DC) activation and antigen-specific T cell responses. Vaccination with PLPs carrying either gp100, E7, or adpgk peptides significantly increased the survival of mice inoculated with B16F10, TC-1, or MC38 tumors, respectively, without the need for adjuvants. B16F10-bearing mice immunized with gp100-carrying PLPs showed increased antitumor CD8+ T cell immunity, suppressed tumor growth, and treatment synergy when paired with two distinct stimulator of interferon gene (STING) agonists. In a human papillomavirus-associated TC-1 model, combination therapy with PLP and 2'3'-cGAMP resulted in 40% of mice completely eliminating implanted tumors while also displaying curative protection from rechallenge, consistent with conferment of lasting immunological memory. Finally, PLPs can be stored long-term in a lyophilized state and are highly tunable, underscoring the unique properties of the platform for use as generalizable cancer vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max M Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Mi-Ran Choi
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine-Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Claudia Battistella
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Brayley Gattis
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Baofu Qiao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Natural Sciences, Baruch College, City University of New York, New York, New York 10010, United States
| | - Michael Evangelopoulos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Chad A Mirkin
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Monica Olvera de la Cruz
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Bin Zhang
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine-Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Nathan C Gianneschi
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60208, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zheng J, Wu YC, Phillips EH, Cai X, Wang X, Seung-Young Lee S. Increased Multiplexity in Optical Tissue Clearing-Based Three-Dimensional Immunofluorescence Microscopy of the Tumor Microenvironment by Light-Emitting Diode Photobleaching. J Transl Med 2024; 104:102072. [PMID: 38679160 PMCID: PMC11240282 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2024.102072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Optical tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy is transforming imaging of the complex tumor microenvironment (TME). However, current 3D IF microscopy has restricted multiplexity; only 3 or 4 cellular and noncellular TME components can be localized in cleared tumor tissue. Here we report a light-emitting diode (LED) photobleaching method and its application for 3D multiplexed optical mapping of the TME. We built a high-power LED light irradiation device and temperature-controlled chamber for completely bleaching fluorescent signals throughout optically cleared tumor tissues without compromise of tissue and protein antigen integrity. With newly developed tissue mounting and selected region-tracking methods, we established a cyclic workflow involving IF staining, tissue clearing, 3D confocal microscopy, and LED photobleaching. By registering microscope channel images generated through 3 work cycles, we produced 8-plex image data from individual 400 μm-thick tumor macrosections that visualize various vascular, immune, and cancer cells in the same TME at tissue-wide and cellular levels in 3D. Our method was also validated for quantitative 3D spatial analysis of cellular remodeling in the TME after immunotherapy. These results demonstrate that our LED photobleaching system and its workflow offer a novel approach to increase the multiplexing power of 3D IF microscopy for studying tumor heterogeneity and response to therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingtian Zheng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yi-Chien Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Evan H Phillips
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Xiaoying Cai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Steve Seung-Young Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li G, Zhao R, Xie Z, Qu X, Duan Y, Zhu Y, Liang H, Tang D, Li Z, He W. Mining bone metastasis related key genes of prostate cancer from the STING pathway based on machine learning. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1372495. [PMID: 38835789 PMCID: PMC11148254 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1372495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent malignant tumor in male, and bone metastasis occurs in about 70% of patients with advanced disease. The STING pathway, an innate immune signaling mechanism, has been shown to play a key role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and cancerous bone pain. Hence, exploring regulatory mechanism of STING in PCa bone metastasis will bring novel opportunities for treating PCa bone metastasis. Methods First, key genes were screened from STING-related genes (SRGs) based on random forest algorithm and their predictive performance was evaluated. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of key genes was performed to explore their roles in prostate carcinogenesis, metastasis and tumor immunity. Next, cellular experiments were performed to verify the role of RELA in proliferation and migration in PCa cells, meanwhile, based on immunohistochemistry, we verified the difference of RELA expression between PCa primary foci and bone metastasis. Finally, based on the key genes to construct an accurate and reliable nomogram, and mined targeting drugs of key genes. Results In this study, three key genes for bone metastasis were mined from SRGs based on the random forest algorithm. Evaluation analysis showed that the key genes had excellent prediction performance, and it also showed that the key genes played a key role in carcinogenesis, metastasis and tumor immunity in PCa by comprehensive analysis. In addition, cellular experiments and immunohistochemistry confirmed that overexpression of RELA significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of PCa cells, and RELA was significantly low-expression in bone metastasis. Finally, the constructed nomogram showed excellent predictive performance in Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC, AUC = 0.99) curve, calibration curve, and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) curve; and the targeted drugs showed good molecular docking effects. Conclusion In sum, this study not only provides a new theoretical basis for the mechanism of PCa bone metastasis, but also provides novel therapeutic targets and novel diagnostic tools for advanced PCa treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guiqiang Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Runhan Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhou Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Qu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingtao Duan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yafei Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dagang Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Zefang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Qianjiang Hospital Affiliated with Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiyang He
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zheng J, Wu YC, Cai X, Phan P, Er EE, Zhao Z, Lee SSY. Correlative multiscale 3D imaging of mouse primary and metastatic tumors by sequential light sheet and confocal fluorescence microscopy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.14.594162. [PMID: 38798657 PMCID: PMC11118317 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.14.594162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) optical microscopy, combined with advanced tissue clearing, permits in situ interrogation of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in large volumetric tumors for preclinical cancer research. Light sheet (also known as ultramicroscopy) and confocal fluorescence microscopy are often used to achieve macroscopic and microscopic 3D images of optically cleared tumor tissues, respectively. Although each technique offers distinct fields of view (FOVs) and spatial resolution, the combination of these two optical microscopy techniques to obtain correlative multiscale 3D images from the same tumor tissues has not yet been explored. To establish correlative multiscale 3D optical microscopy, we developed a method for optically marking defined regions of interest (ROIs) within a cleared mouse tumor by employing a UV light-activated visible dye and Z-axis position-selective UV irradiation in a light sheet microscope system. By integrating this method with subsequent tissue processing, including physical ROI marking, reversal of tissue clearing, tissue macrosectioning, and multiplex immunofluorescence, we established a workflow that enables the tracking and 3D imaging of ROIs within tumor tissues through sequential light sheet and confocal fluorescence microscopy. This approach allowed for quantitative 3D spatial analysis of the immune response in the TME of a mouse mammary tumor following cancer immunotherapy at multiple spatial scales. The workflow also facilitated the direct localization of a metastatic lesion within a whole mouse brain. These results demonstrate that our ROI tracking method and its associated workflow offer a novel approach for correlative multiscale 3D optical microscopy, with the potential to provide new insights into tumor heterogeneity, metastasis, and response to therapy at various spatial levels.
Collapse
|
10
|
Dong MP, Dharmaraj N, Kaminagakura E, Xue J, Leach DG, Hartgerink JD, Zhang M, Hanks HJ, Ye Y, Aouizerat BE, Vining K, Thomas CM, Dovat S, Young S, Viet CT. Stimulator of Interferon Genes Pathway Activation through the Controlled Release of STINGel Mediates Analgesia and Anti-Cancer Effects in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2024; 12:920. [PMID: 38672274 PMCID: PMC11047833 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) presents significant treatment challenges due to its poor survival and intense pain at the primary cancer site. Cancer pain is debilitating, contributes to diminished quality of life, and causes opioid tolerance. The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonism has been investigated as an anti-cancer strategy. We have developed STINGel, an extended-release formulation that prolongs the availability of STING agonists, which has demonstrated an enhanced anti-tumor effect in OSCC compared to STING agonist injection. This study investigates the impact of intra-tumoral STINGel on OSCC-induced pain using two separate OSCC models and nociceptive behavioral assays. Intra-tumoral STINGel significantly reduced mechanical allodynia in the orofacial cancer model and alleviated thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia in the hind paw model. To determine the cellular signaling cascade contributing to the antinociceptive effect, we performed an in-depth analysis of immune cell populations via single-cell RNA-seq. We demonstrated an increase in M1-like macrophages and N1-like neutrophils after STINGel treatment. The identified regulatory pathways controlled immune response activation, myeloid cell differentiation, and cytoplasmic translation. Functional pathway analysis demonstrated the suppression of translation at neuron synapses and the negative regulation of neuron projection development in M2-like macrophages after STINGel treatment. Importantly, STINGel treatment upregulated TGF-β pathway signaling between various cell populations and peripheral nervous system (PNS) macrophages and enhanced TGF-β signaling within the PNS itself. Overall, this study sheds light on the mechanisms underlying STINGel-mediated antinociception and anti-tumorigenic impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minh Phuong Dong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (M.P.D.); (M.Z.); (H.-J.H.)
| | - Neeraja Dharmaraj
- Katz Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA; (N.D.); (J.X.); (S.Y.)
| | - Estela Kaminagakura
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São Paulo 12245-00, Brazil;
| | - Jianfei Xue
- Katz Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA; (N.D.); (J.X.); (S.Y.)
| | - David G. Leach
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; (D.G.L.); (J.D.H.)
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Jeffrey D. Hartgerink
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; (D.G.L.); (J.D.H.)
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Michael Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (M.P.D.); (M.Z.); (H.-J.H.)
| | - Hana-Joy Hanks
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (M.P.D.); (M.Z.); (H.-J.H.)
| | - Yi Ye
- Translational Research Center, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
- NYU Pain Research Center, Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Bradley E. Aouizerat
- NYU Pain Research Center, Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Kyle Vining
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Carissa M. Thomas
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Sinisa Dovat
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Simon Young
- Katz Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA; (N.D.); (J.X.); (S.Y.)
| | - Chi T. Viet
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (M.P.D.); (M.Z.); (H.-J.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zheng J, Wu YC, Phillips EH, Wang X, Lee SSY. Increased multiplexity in optical tissue clearing-based 3D immunofluorescence microscopy of the tumor microenvironment by LED photobleaching. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.29.569277. [PMID: 38076864 PMCID: PMC10705380 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.29.569277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Optical tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy have been transforming imaging of the complex tumor microenvironment (TME). However, current 3D IF microscopy has restricted multiplexity; only three or four cellular and non-cellular TME components can be localized in a cleared tumor tissue. Here we report a LED photobleaching method and its application for 3D multiplexed optical mapping of the TME. We built a high-power LED light irradiation device and temperature-controlled chamber for completely bleaching fluorescent signals throughout optically cleared tumor tissues without compromise of tissue and protein antigen integrity. With newly developed tissue mounting and selected region-tracking methods, we established a cyclic workflow involving IF staining, tissue clearing, 3D confocal microscopy, and LED photobleaching. By registering microscope channel images generated through three work cycles, we produced 8-plex image data from individual 400 μm-thick tumor macrosections that visualize various vascular, immune, and cancer cells in the same TME at tissue-wide and cellular levels in 3D. Our method was also validated for quantitative 3D spatial analysis of cellular remodeling in the TME after immunotherapy. These results demonstrate that our LED photobleaching system and its workflow offer a novel approach to increase the multiplexing power of 3D IF microscopy for studying tumor heterogeneity and response to therapy.
Collapse
|
12
|
Dejmek M, Brazdova A, Otava T, Polidarova MP, Klíma M, Smola M, Vavrina Z, Buděšínský M, Dračínský M, Liboska R, Boura E, Birkuš G, Nencka R. Vinylphosphonate-based cyclic dinucleotides enhance STING-mediated cancer immunotherapy. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115685. [PMID: 37567057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) trigger the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway, which plays a key role in cytosolic DNA sensing and thus in immunomodulation against infections, cell damage and cancer. However, cancer immunotherapy trials with CDNs have shown immune activation, but not complete tumor regression. Nevertheless, we designed a novel class of CDNs containing vinylphosphonate based on a STING-affinity screening assay. In vitro, acyloxymethyl phosphate/phosphonate prodrugs of these vinylphosphonate CDNs were up to 1000-fold more potent than the clinical candidate ADU-S100. In vivo, the lead prodrug induced tumor-specific T cell priming and facilitated tumor regression in the 4T1 syngeneic mouse model of breast cancer. Moreover, we solved the crystal structure of this ligand bound to the STING protein. Therefore, our findings not only validate the therapeutic potential of vinylphosphonate CDNs but also open up opportunities for drug development in cancer immunotherapy bridging innate and adaptive immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Dejmek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Brazdova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic; Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Průmyslová 595, Vestec, 128 44, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Otava
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic; Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Pimkova Polidarova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic; Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Průmyslová 595, Vestec, 128 44, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Klíma
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Smola
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Vavrina
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, Prague 2, 128 00, Czech Republic
| | - Miloš Buděšínský
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Dračínský
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Liboska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Evzen Boura
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriel Birkuš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic.
| | - Radim Nencka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague 6, 166 10, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu T, Dai J, Tang L, Sun L, Si L, Guo J. Systemic administration of STING agonist promotes myeloid cells maturation and antitumor immunity through regulating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell fate. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3491-3505. [PMID: 37550427 PMCID: PMC10991199 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03502-7] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
STING is a pivotal mediator of effective innate and adaptive anti-tumor immunity; however, intratumoral administration of STING agonists have shown limited therapeutic benefit in clinical trials. The systemic effect of the intravenous delivery of STING agonists in cancer is not well-defined. Here, we demonstrated that systemic administration of STING agonist inhibited melanoma growth, improved inflammatory effector cell infiltration, and induced bone marrow mobilization and extramedullary hematopoiesis, causing widespread changes in immune components in the peripheral blood. The systemically administered STING agonist promoted HSC expansion and influenced lineage fate commitment, which was manifested as the differentiation of HSPCs was skewed toward myeloid cells at the expense of B-cell lymphopoiesis and erythropoiesis. Transcriptome analysis revealed upregulation of myeloid lineage differentiation-related and type I interferon-related genes. This myeloid-biased differentiation promoted the production and maturation of myeloid cells toward an activated phenotype. Furthermore, depletion of Gr-1+ myeloid cells attenuated the anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist. Our findings reveal the anti-tumor mechanism of systemic administration of STING agonist that involves modulating HSPC differentiation and promoting myeloid cells maturation. Our study may help explain the limited clinical activity of STING agonists administered intratumorally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianxiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Jie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Lirui Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Linzi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Lu Si
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Jun Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Melanoma and Sarcoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Genitourinary Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 52# Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Blanc F, Bertho N, Piton G, Leplat JJ, Egidy G, Bourneuf E, Vincent-Naulleau S, Prévost-Blondel A. Deciphering the immune reaction leading to spontaneous melanoma regression: initial role of MHCII + CD163 - macrophages. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3507-3521. [PMID: 37526660 PMCID: PMC10576715 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03503-6] [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: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The human cutaneous metastatic melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer. Partial, or less frequently complete spontaneous regressions could be observed, mainly mediated by T cells. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms are not fully unraveled. We investigated the first events of the immune response related to cancer regression in Melanoma-bearing Libechov Minipigs (MeLiM), a unique swine model of cutaneous melanoma that regresses spontaneously. Using a multiparameter flow cytometry strategy and integrating new clinical and histological criteria of the regression, we show that T cells and B cells are present only in the late stages, arguing against their role in the initial destruction of malignant cells. NK cells infiltrate the tumors before T cells and therefore might be involved in the induction of the regression process. Myeloid cells represent the main immune population within the tumor microenvironment regardless of the regression stage. Among those, MHCII+ CD163- macrophages that differ phenotypically and functionally compared to other tumor-associated macrophages, increase in number together with the first signs of regression suggesting their crucial contribution to initiating the regression process. Our study supports the importance of macrophage reprogramming in humans to improve current immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fany Blanc
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, 75014, Paris, France.
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
| | - Nicolas Bertho
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, VIM, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- INRAE, Oniris, BIOEPAR, 44300, Nantes, France
| | - Guillaume Piton
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Leplat
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Giorgia Egidy
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourneuf
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Laboratoire de Cancérologie Expérimentale, CEA/DRF/IBFJ/IRCM, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Silvia Vincent-Naulleau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CEA, DSV/iRCM/SREIT/LREG, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Plateforme animalerie, CEA/DRF/IBFJ/IRCM, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Bureau des Etudes Biomédicales chez l'Animal, CEA/DRF/BEBA, 92265, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Armelle Prévost-Blondel
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, 75014, Paris, France.
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
- CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sokolowska O, Rodziewicz-Lurzynska A, Pilch Z, Kedzierska H, Chlebowska-Tuz J, Sosnowska A, Szumera-Cieckiewicz A, Sokol K, Barankiewicz J, Salomon-Perzynski A, Ciepiela O, Lech-Maranda E, Golab J, Nowis D. Immune checkpoint inhibition improves antimyeloma activity of bortezomib and STING agonist combination in Vk*MYC preclinical model. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:1563-1572. [PMID: 36044158 PMCID: PMC10460740 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00878-1] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM), a hematological malignancy of plasma cells, has remained incurable despite the development of novel therapies that improve patients' outcome. Recent evidence indicates that the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway may represent a novel target for induction of antitumor immune response in multiple myeloma. Here, we investigated antitumor effects of STING agonist with bortezomib with or without checkpoint inhibitor in the treatment of MM. METHODS STING expression in bone marrow plasma cells of 58 MM patients was examined by immunohistochemical staining. The effectiveness of the proposed therapy was evaluated in vivo in a syngeneic transplantable mouse model of MM (Vĸ*MYC) in immunocompetent mice. Flow cytometry was used to assess tumor burden and investigate activation of immune response against MM. ELISA was performed to measure serum inflammatory cytokines concentrations upon treatment. RESULTS Combining a STING agonist [2'3'-cGAM(PS)2] with bortezomib significantly decreased tumor burden and improved the survival of treated mice compared to either of the compounds used alone. The combination treatment led to secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the percentage of neutrophils, activated dendritic cells and T cells in the tumor microenvironment. However, it resulted also in increased expression of PD-L1 on the surface of the immune cells. Addition of anti-PD1 antibody further potentiated the therapeutic effects. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate high antimyeloma efficacy of the three-drug regimen comprising bortezomib, STING agonist, and a checkpoint inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Sokolowska
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha, 2C, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Rodziewicz-Lurzynska
- Central Laboratory, University Clinical Center of Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1A, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Pilch
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hanna Kedzierska
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha, 2C, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Chlebowska-Tuz
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha, 2C, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Sosnowska
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Szumera-Cieckiewicz
- Department of Pathology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Roentgena 5, 02-781, Warsaw, Poland
- Diagnostic Hematology Department, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiri Ghandi 14, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Sokol
- Diagnostic Hematology Department, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiri Ghandi 14, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Barankiewicz
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiri Ghandi 14, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksander Salomon-Perzynski
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiri Ghandi 14, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Ciepiela
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1A, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Lech-Maranda
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiri Ghandi 14, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Golab
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
- Centre of Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Nowis
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha, 2C, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Brai A, Poggialini F, Pasqualini C, Trivisani CI, Vagaggini C, Dreassi E. Progress towards Adjuvant Development: Focus on Antiviral Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9225. [PMID: 37298177 PMCID: PMC10253057 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, vaccines have been extraordinary resources to prevent pathogen diffusion and cancer. Even if they can be formed by a single antigen, the addition of one or more adjuvants represents the key to enhance the response of the immune signal to the antigen, thus accelerating and increasing the duration and the potency of the protective effect. Their use is of particular importance for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or immunocompromised people. Despite their importance, only in the last forty years has the search for novel adjuvants increased, with the discovery of novel classes of immune potentiators and immunomodulators. Due to the complexity of the cascades involved in immune signal activation, their mechanism of action remains poorly understood, even if significant discovery has been recently made thanks to recombinant technology and metabolomics. This review focuses on the classes of adjuvants under research, recent mechanism of action studies, as well as nanodelivery systems and novel classes of adjuvants that can be chemically manipulated to create novel small molecule adjuvants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Brai
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Claudia Pasqualini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Claudia Immacolata Trivisani
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Alam MM, Gower T, Jiang M, Oppenheim JJ, Yang D. A Therapeutic Vaccine in Combination with Cyclic GMP-AMP Cures More Differentiated Melanomas in Mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:1428-1436. [PMID: 36947147 PMCID: PMC10121855 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
We have identified a combinational immunotherapy termed TheraVac vaccine (TheraVac) that can cure multiple large established mouse tumors, but it failed to cure melanoma in mice. TheraVac consists of an immunostimulating arm containing an agonist (HMGN1 [N1]) for TLR4 and an agonist (R848) for TLR7/8 that synergize to activate tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells (DCs) and promote Th1 immune responses. The second arm uses an immune checkpoint blockade, anti-PDL-1, to diminish tumor-associated immunosuppression. In this study, we investigated supplementation of TheraVac by a stimulator of IFN genes (STING) agonist, cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), because together they synergize in activating DCs and produced more immunostimulating IL-12p70 and TNF-α cytokines. The synergistic activation and maturation of DCs is dependent on the activation of tank binding kinase-1 (TBK1). Treatment of three different melanin-producing mouse melanomas (B16F1, M3, and M4) with intratumoral delivery of cGAMP and TheraVac eradicated 60-80% of these melanomas. Immunoprofiling of M3 tumor treated with TheraVac plus cGAMP showed an increase in CD8+ CTLs and macrophages in the tumor. There was also a marked increase of CD4, CD8 effector and memory T cells and generation of functional tumor-specific CTLs in tumor-draining lymph nodes. The resultant tumor-free mice were selectively resistant to subsequent challenge with the same tumors, indicating long-term tumor-specific protective immunity. Overall, our findings have important implications for clinical trials with a combination of these immunotherapeutics to cure melanin-producing human melanomas, without the need for exogenous tumor Ags and no clear toxic effects in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Masud Alam
- Cellular Immunology Section, Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Timothy Gower
- Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Mengmeng Jiang
- Cellular Immunology Section, Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Joost J Oppenheim
- Cellular Immunology Section, Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - De Yang
- Cellular Immunology Section, Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vasiyani H, Wadhwa B, Singh R. Regulation of cGAS-STING signalling in cancer: Approach for combination therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188896. [PMID: 37088059 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Innate immunity plays an important role not only during infection but also homeostatic role during stress conditions. Activation of the immune system including innate immune response plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis. The innate immune sensor recognizes pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and activates cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) (cGAS-STING) and induces type-1 immune response during viral and bacterial infection. cGAS-STING is regulated differently in conditions like cellular senescence and DNA damage in normal and tumor cells and is implicated in the progression of tumors from different origins. cGAS binds to cytoplasmic dsDNA and synthesize cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP), which selectively activates STING and downstream IFN and NF-κB activation. We here reviewed the cGAS-STING signalling pathway and its cross-talk with other pathways to modulate tumorigenesis. Further, the review also focused on emerging studies that targeted the cGAS-STING pathway for developing targeted therapeutics and combinatorial regimens for cancer of different origins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitesh Vasiyani
- Department of Biochemistry, The M.S. University of Baroda, Vadodara 390002, Gujarat, India
| | - Bhumika Wadhwa
- Department of Biochemistry, The M.S. University of Baroda, Vadodara 390002, Gujarat, India
| | - Rajesh Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, The M.S. University of Baroda, Vadodara 390002, Gujarat, India.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Vrabel MR, Schulman JA, Gillam FB, Mantooth SM, Nguyen KG, Zaharoff DA. Focal Cryo-Immunotherapy with Intratumoral IL-12 Prevents Recurrence of Large Murine Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2210. [PMID: 37190138 PMCID: PMC10137033 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal ablation technologies are routinely used in the clinical management of inoperable solid tumors but they often result in incomplete ablations leading to high recurrence rates. Adjuvant therapies, capable of safely eliminating residual tumor cells, are therefore of great clinical interest. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a potent antitumor cytokine that can be localized intratumorally through coformulation with viscous biopolymers, including chitosan (CS) solutions. The objective of this research was to determine if localized immunotherapy with a CS/IL-12 formulation could prevent tumor recurrence after cryoablation (CA). Tumor recurrence and overall survival rates were assessed. Systemic immunity was evaluated in spontaneously metastatic and bilateral tumor models. Temporal bulk RNA sequencing was performed on tumor and draining lymph node (dLN) samples. In multiple murine tumor models, the addition of CS/IL-12 to CA reduced recurrence rates by 30-55%. Altogether, this cryo-immunotherapy induced complete durable regression of large tumors in 80-100% of treated animals. Additionally, CS/IL-12 prevented lung metastases when delivered as a neoadjuvant to CA. However, CA plus CS/IL-12 had minimal antitumor activity against established, untreated abscopal tumors. Adjuvant anti-PD-1 therapy delayed the growth of abscopal tumors. Transcriptome analyses revealed early immunological changes in the dLN, followed by a significant increase in gene expression associated with immune suppression and regulation. Cryo-immunotherapy with localized CS/IL-12 reduces recurrences and enhances the elimination of large primary tumors. This focal combination therapy also induces significant but limited systemic antitumor immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maura R. Vrabel
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Jacob A. Schulman
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Francis B. Gillam
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Siena M. Mantooth
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Khue G. Nguyen
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - David A. Zaharoff
- ImmunoEngineering Laboratory, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Comparative Medicine Institute, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fang L, Ying S, Xu X, Wu D. TREX1 cytosolic DNA degradation correlates with autoimmune disease and cancer immunity. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 211:193-207. [PMID: 36745566 PMCID: PMC10038326 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad017] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The N-terminal domain of Three Prime Repair Exonuclease 1 (TREX1) is catalytically active and can degrade dsDNA or ssDNA in the cytosol, whereas the C-terminal domain is primarily involved in protein localization. TREX1 deficiency induces cytosolic DNA accumulation as well as activation of the cGAS-STING-IFN signaling pathway, which results in tissue inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, TREX1 expression in cancer immunity can be adaptively regulated to promote tumor proliferation, making it a promising therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Fang
- Pediatric Neurorehabilitation Center, Pediatric Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Songcheng Ying
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xi Xu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - De Wu
- Pediatric Neurorehabilitation Center, Pediatric Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shan B, Hou H, Zhang K, Li R, Shen C, Chen Z, Xu P, Cui R, Su Z, Zhang C, Yang R, Zhou G, Liu Y, Guo H, Chen K, Fu W, Jiang H, Zhang S, Zheng M. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Bipyridazine Derivatives as Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) Receptor Agonists. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3327-3347. [PMID: 36808996 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
The development of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists has been of potential applications for the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. Based on the crystal structure of SR-717 bound to hSTING, we designed and synthesized a novel series of bipyridazine derivatives as highly potent STING agonists. Among them, compound 12L led to significant thermal stability shifts of the common alleles of hSTING, as well as that of mSTING. 12L also displayed potent activities in various hSTING alleles and mSTING competition binding assay. Specifically, 12L displayed higher cell-based activities than SR-717 in both human THP1 (EC50 = 0.38 ± 0.03 μM) and mouse RAW 264.7 cells (EC50 = 12.94 ± 1.78 μM), and was validated to activate the downstream signaling pathway of STING via a STING-dependent manner. Furthermore, compound 12L showed favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) properties and antitumor efficacy. These findings suggested that compound 12L has development potential as an antitumor agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Shan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hui Hou
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Keke Zhang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Rui Li
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chang Shen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Zhengyang Chen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peijia Xu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Rongrong Cui
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhaoming Su
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Changfa Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ruirui Yang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guizhen Zhou
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yadan Liu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Sulin Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mingyue Zheng
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lamsal A, Andersen SB, Johansson I, Vietri M, Bokil AA, Kurganovs NJ, Rylander F, Bjørkøy G, Pettersen K, Giambelluca MS. Opposite and dynamic regulation of the interferon response in metastatic and non-metastatic breast cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:50. [PMID: 36882786 PMCID: PMC9990226 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01062-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To our current understanding, solid tumors depend on suppressed local immune reactions, often elicited by the interaction between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment (TME) components. Despite an improved understanding of anti-cancer immune responses in the TME, it is still unclear how immuno-suppressive TME are formed and how some cancer cells survive and metastasize. METHODS To identify the major adaptations that cancer cells undergo during tumor development and progression, we compared the transcriptome and proteome from metastatic 66cl4 and non-metastatic 67NR cell lines in culture versus their corresponding mouse mammary primary tumors. Using confocal microscopy, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry and western blotting, we studied the signaling pathway and the mechanisms involved. In addition, we used public gene expression data from human breast cancer biopsies to evaluate the correlation between gene expression and clinical outcomes in patients. RESULTS We found that type I interferon (IFN-I) response was a key differentially regulated pathway between metastatic and non-metastatic cell lines and tumors. The IFN-I response was active in metastatic cancer cells in culture and markedly dampened when these cells formed primary tumors. Interestingly, the opposite was observed in non-metastatic cancer cells and tumors. Consistent with an active IFN-I response in culture, the metastatic cancer cells displayed elevated levels of cytosolic DNA from both mitochondria and ruptured micronuclei with concomitant activation of cGAS-STING signaling. Interestingly, decreased IFN-I-related gene expression in breast cancer biopsies correlated with an unfavourable prognosis in patients. CONCLUSION Our findings show that IFN-I response is dampened in the tumors with the metastatic ability and lower IFN-I expression predicts poor prognosis in triple-negative and HER2 enriched breast cancer patients. This study highlights the possibility of reactivating the IFN-I response as a potential therapeutic strategy in breast cancer. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Apsana Lamsal
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sonja Benedikte Andersen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ida Johansson
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Marina Vietri
- Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Montebello, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Montebello, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ansooya Avinash Bokil
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Natalie Jayne Kurganovs
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, Montebello, Oslo, Norway
| | - Felicia Rylander
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geir Bjørkøy
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kristine Pettersen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway. .,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Miriam S Giambelluca
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Florian DC, Bennett NE, Odziomek M, Baljon JJ, Wehbe M, Merkel AR, Fischer MA, Savona MR, Rhoades JA, Guelcher SA, Wilson JT. Nanoparticle STING Agonist Reprograms the Bone Marrow to an Antitumor Phenotype and Protects Against Bone Destruction. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:223-234. [PMID: 36968140 PMCID: PMC10035525 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
When breast cancer metastasizes to bone, treatment options are limited. Failure to treat bone metastases is thought to be due to therapy-resistant features of the bone marrow microenvironment. Using a murine model of bone metastatic mammary carcinoma, we demonstrate that systemic delivery of polymer nanoparticles loaded with cyclic dinucleotide (CDN) agonists of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) inhibited tumor growth and bone destruction after 7 days of treatment. Each dose of STING-activating nanoparticles trafficked to the bone marrow compartment and was retained within the tumor microenvironment for over 24 hours, enhancing antitumor immunity through proinflammatory cytokine production and early T-cell activation. While acquired resistance mechanisms, including increased levels of immunosuppressive cytokines and the infiltration of regulatory T cells, ultimately limited antitumor efficacy after 2 weeks of treatment, bone protective effects remained. Overall, these studies demonstrate that STING pathway activation, here enabled using a nanomedicine approach to enhance CDN delivery to bone metastatic sites, can reprogram the immune contexture of the bone marrow to an antitumor phenotype that inhibits bone colonization of metastatic breast cancer cells and protects from tumor-mediated bone destruction. Significance Bone metastases are difficult to treat due to the inaccessibility of the bone marrow compartment and the immunosuppressive microenvironment that protects resident stem cells. Packaging a STING agonist into a nanoparticle that enables systemic administration and drug accumulation at tumor sites overcomes both barriers to stymie metastatic breast cancer growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David C. Florian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Natalie E. Bennett
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Mateusz Odziomek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jessalyn J. Baljon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Mohamed Wehbe
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee
| | - Alyssa R. Merkel
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee
| | - Melissa A. Fischer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee
| | - Michael R. Savona
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Julie A. Rhoades
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee
| | - Scott A. Guelcher
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - John T. Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ouyang K, Zheng DX, Agak GW. T-Cell Mediated Immunity in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246058. [PMID: 36551547 PMCID: PMC9775569 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and frequently lethal skin cancer with neuroendocrine characteristics. MCC can originate from either the presence of MCC polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA or chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure that can cause DNA mutations. MCC is predominant in sun-exposed regions of the body and can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Older, light-skinned individuals with a history of significant sun exposure are at the highest risk. Previous studies have shown that tumors containing a high number of tumor-infiltrating T-cells have favorable survival, even in the absence of MCPyV DNA, suggesting that MCPyV infection enhances T-cell infiltration. However, other factors may also play a role in the host antitumor response. Herein, we review the impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly the CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T-cell (Tregs) responses on the course of MCC, including their role in initiating MCPyV-specific immune responses. Furthermore, potential research avenues related to T-cell biology in MCC, as well as relevant immunotherapies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Ouyang
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - David X. Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - George W. Agak
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yang X, Liu X, Li J, Zhang P, Li H, Chen G, Zhang W, Wang T, Frazer I, Ni G. Caerin 1.1/1.9 Enhances Antitumour Immunity by Activating the IFN-α Response Signalling Pathway of Tumour Macrophages. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235785. [PMID: 36497272 PMCID: PMC9738106 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235785] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are one of the essential components of the tumour microenvironment (TME) of many cancers and show complex heterogeneity and functions. More recent research has been focusing on the characterisation of tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs). Previously, our study demonstrated that caerin 1.1/1.9 peptides significantly improve the therapeutic efficacy of combined specific immunotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade in a murine transplantable tumour model (TC-1). In this study, the mice inoculated with TC-1 tumour were immunised differently. The TAMs were isolated using flow cytometry and characterised by cytokine ELISA. The survival rates of mice with different treatments containing caerin 1.1/19 were assessed comparatively, including those with/without macrophage depletion. The single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of previous studies were integrated to further reveal the functions of TAMs with the treatments containing caerin 1.1/1.9. As a comparison, the TAMs of stage I and II cervical cancer patients were analysed using scRNA-seq analysis. We demonstrate that caerin induced tumour clearance is associated with infiltration of tumours by IL-12 secreting Ly6C+F4/80+ macrophages exhibiting enhanced IFN-α response signalling, renders animals resistant to further tumour challenge, which is lost after macrophage depletion. Our results indicate that caerin 1.1/1.9 treatment has great potential in improving current immunotherapy efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Medical School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiaosong Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Medical School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Cancer Research Institute, First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Junjie Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Medical School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Pingping Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute, First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Hejie Li
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore BC, QLD 4558, Australia
| | - Guoqiang Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Medical School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Tianfang Wang
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore BC, QLD 4558, Australia
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore BC, QLD 4558, Australia
| | - Ian Frazer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, the University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
- Correspondence: (I.F.); (G.N.)
| | - Guoying Ni
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Clinical Medical School, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Cancer Research Institute, First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
- Correspondence: (I.F.); (G.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Graham PT, Nowak AK, Cornwall SMJ, Larma I, Nelson DJ. The STING agonist, DMXAA, reduces tumor vessels and enhances mesothelioma tumor antigen presentation yet blunts cytotoxic T cell function in a murine model. Front Immunol 2022; 13:969678. [PMID: 36466911 PMCID: PMC9716460 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.969678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We assessed the murine Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) agonist, DMXAA, for anti-mesothelioma potential using the AE17-sOVA model that expresses ovalbumin (OVA) as a neo tumor antigen. Dose response experiments alongside testing different routes of administration identified a safe effective treatment regimen that induced 100% cures in mice with small or large tumors. Three doses of 25mg/kg DMXAA given intra-tumorally every 9 days induced tumor regression and long-term survival (>5 months). Re-challenge experiments showed that tumor-free mice developed protective memory. MTT and propidium-iodide assays showed that DMXAA exerted direct cytotoxic effects at doses >1mg/ml on the murine AE17 and AB1 mesothelioma cell lines. In-vivo studies using a CFSE-based in-vivo proliferation assay showed that DMXAA improved tumor-antigen presentation in tumor-draining lymph nodes, evidenced by OVA-specific OT-1 T cells undergoing more divisions. An in-vivo cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assay showed that DMXAA blunted the lytic quality of CTLs recognizing the dominant (SIINFEKL) and a subdominant (KVVRFDKL) OVA epitopes. DMXAA reduced tumor vessel size in-vivo and although the proportion of T cells infiltrating tumors reduced, the proportion of tumor-specific T cells increased. These data show careful dosing and treatment protocols reduce mesothelioma cell viability and modulate tumor vessels such that tumor-antigen specific CTLs access the tumor site. However, attempts to enhance DMXAA-induced anti-tumor responses by combination with an agonist anti-CD40 antibody or IL-2 reduced efficacy. These proof-of-concept data suggest that mesothelioma patients could benefit from treatment with a STING agonist, but combination with immunotherapy should be cautiously undertaken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter T. Graham
- School of Medicine, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Anna K. Nowak
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Institute of Respiratory Health, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | | | - Irma Larma
- Becton Dickinson Pty Limited, Osborne Park, WA, Australia
| | - Delia J. Nelson
- School of Medicine, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Bentley, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
MYC promotes immune-suppression in triple-negative breast cancer via inhibition of interferon signaling. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6579. [PMID: 36323660 PMCID: PMC9630413 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34000-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The limited efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients is attributed to sparse or unresponsive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, but the mechanisms that lead to a therapy resistant tumor immune microenvironment are incompletely known. Here we show a strong correlation between MYC expression and loss of immune signatures in human TNBC. In mouse models of TNBC proficient or deficient of breast cancer type 1 susceptibility gene (BRCA1), MYC overexpression dramatically decreases lymphocyte infiltration in tumors, along with immune signature remodelling. MYC-mediated suppression of inflammatory signalling induced by BRCA1/2 inactivation is confirmed in human TNBC cell lines. Moreover, MYC overexpression prevents the recruitment and activation of lymphocytes in both human and mouse TNBC co-culture models. Chromatin-immunoprecipitation-sequencing reveals that MYC, together with its co-repressor MIZ1, directly binds promoters of multiple interferon-signalling genes, resulting in their downregulation. MYC overexpression thus counters tumor growth inhibition by a Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) agonist via suppressing induction of interferon signalling. Together, our data reveal that MYC suppresses innate immunity and facilitates tumor immune escape, explaining the poor immunogenicity of MYC-overexpressing TNBCs.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tian X, Xu F, Zhu Q, Feng Z, Dai W, Zhou Y, You QD, Xu X. Medicinal chemistry perspective on cGAS-STING signaling pathway with small molecule inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114791. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
29
|
Skopelja-Gardner S, An J, Elkon KB. Role of the cGAS-STING pathway in systemic and organ-specific diseases. Nat Rev Nephrol 2022; 18:558-572. [PMID: 35732833 PMCID: PMC9214686 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-022-00589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cells are equipped with numerous sensors that recognize nucleic acids, which probably evolved for defence against viruses. Once triggered, these sensors stimulate the production of type I interferons and other cytokines that activate immune cells and promote an antiviral state. The evolutionary conserved enzyme cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is one of the most recently identified DNA sensors. Upon ligand engagement, cGAS dimerizes and synthesizes the dinucleotide second messenger 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which binds to the endoplasmic reticulum protein stimulator of interferon genes (STING) with high affinity, thereby unleashing an inflammatory response. cGAS-binding DNA is not restricted by sequence and must only be >45 nucleotides in length; therefore, cGAS can also be stimulated by self genomic or mitochondrial DNA. This broad specificity probably explains why the cGAS-STING pathway has been implicated in a number of autoinflammatory, autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases; this pathway might also be activated during acute and chronic kidney injury. Therapeutic manipulation of the cGAS-STING pathway, using synthetic cyclic dinucleotides or inhibitors of cGAMP metabolism, promises to enhance immune responses in cancer or viral infections. By contrast, inhibitors of cGAS or STING might be useful in diseases in which this pro-inflammatory pathway is chronically activated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jie An
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Keith B Elkon
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Füchsl F, Krackhardt AM. Paving the Way to Solid Tumors: Challenges and Strategies for Adoptively Transferred Transgenic T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4192. [PMID: 36077730 PMCID: PMC9454442 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
T cells are important players in the antitumor immune response. Over the past few years, the adoptive transfer of genetically modified, autologous T cells-specifically redirected toward the tumor by expressing either a T cell receptor (TCR) or a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-has been adopted for use in the clinic. At the moment, the therapeutic application of CD19- and, increasingly, BCMA-targeting-engineered CAR-T cells have been approved and have yielded partly impressive results in hematologic malignancies. However, employing transgenic T cells for the treatment of solid tumors remains more troublesome, and numerous hurdles within the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) need to be overcome to achieve tumor control. In this review, we focused on the challenges that these therapies must face on three different levels: infiltrating the tumor, exerting efficient antitumor activity, and overcoming T cell exhaustion and dysfunction. We aimed to discuss different options to pave the way for potent transgenic T cell-mediated tumor rejection by engineering either the TME or the transgenic T cell itself, which responds to the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Füchsl
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin III, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Angela M. Krackhardt
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin III, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium of Translational Cancer Research (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Dhanisha SS, Guruvayoorappan C. Potential role of cGAS/STING pathway in regulating cancer progression. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 178:103780. [PMID: 35953012 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation of innate immune response after the engagement of dsDNA is an evolutionarily preserved sophisticated strategy against invading microbial pathogens. cGAS has been identified as one of the major dsDNA sensor present in the cytoplasm which catalyzes the synthesis of a cyclic dinucleotide 2'3'cGAMP, as the secondary messenger that binds and activates the downstream stimulator of interferon (IFN) genes (STING) for subsequent production of type 1 IFNs and other inflammatory genes. Recent progress in the mechanical understanding of cGAS/STING signalling has unveiled its intricate role in tumor progression and metastasis. In this review, we specifically focus on new developments concerning the role of cGAS/STING signalling in regulating antitumorigenesis and tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Sulekha Dhanisha
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research Regional Cancer Centre, Research Centre, University of Kerala, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Chandrasekharan Guruvayoorappan
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Research Regional Cancer Centre, Research Centre, University of Kerala, Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695011, Kerala, India.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jain A, Mittal S, Tripathi LP, Nussinov R, Ahmad S. Host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions: A comprehensive review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:4415-4436. [PMID: 36051878 PMCID: PMC9420432 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Recognition of pathogen-derived nucleic acids by host cells is an effective host strategy to detect pathogenic invasion and trigger immune responses. In the context of pathogen-specific pharmacology, there is a growing interest in mapping the interactions between pathogen-derived nucleic acids and host proteins. Insight into the principles of the structural and immunological mechanisms underlying such interactions and their roles in host defense is necessary to guide therapeutic intervention. Here, we discuss the newest advances in studies of molecular interactions involving pathogen nucleic acids and host factors, including their drug design, molecular structure and specific patterns. We observed that two groups of nucleic acid recognizing molecules, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the cytoplasmic retinoic acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I-like receptors (RLRs) form the backbone of host responses to pathogen nucleic acids, with additional support provided by absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) and DNA-dependent activator of Interferons (IFNs)-regulatory factors (DAI) like cytosolic activity. We review the structural, immunological, and other biological aspects of these representative groups of molecules, especially in terms of their target specificity and affinity and challenges in leveraging host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions (HP-PNI) in drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Jain
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Shikha Mittal
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Lokesh P. Tripathi
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
- Riken Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Basic Science Program, Frederick National, Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Shandar Ahmad
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Vermare A, Guérin MV, Peranzoni E, Bercovici N. Dynamic CD8+ T Cell Cooperation with Macrophages and Monocytes for Successful Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143546. [PMID: 35884605 PMCID: PMC9318008 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143546] [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: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Innate and adaptive immunity mutually regulate one another in a dynamic fashion during immune responses. In infectious contexts, positive interactions between macrophages, monocytes and T cells are well recognized, but this is not the case in the field of cancer, where the growth of tumors disturbs the immune response. However, recent advances revealed that successful immunotherapy profoundly remodels the tumor microenvironment, promoting the activation of both T cells and myeloid cells. This review highlights the studies that hint at positive CD8+ T cell cooperation with monocytes and macrophages in this context, and discusses the potential mechanisms behind this. Abstract The essential roles endorsed by macrophages and monocytes are well established in response to infections, where they contribute to launching the differentiation of specific T-lymphocytes for long-term protection. This knowledge is the result of dynamic studies that can inspire the cancer field, particularly now that cancer immunotherapies elicit some tumor regression. Indeed, immune responses to cancer have mainly been studied after tumors have escaped immune attacks. In particular, the suppressive functions of macrophages were revealed in this context, introducing an obvious bias across the literature. In this review, we will focus on the ways inwhich monocytes and macrophages cooperate with T-lymphocytes, leading to successful immune responses. We will bring together the preclinical studies that have revealed the existence of such positive cooperation in the cancer field, and we will place particular emphasis on proposing the underlying mechanisms. Finally, we will give some perspectives to decipher the functional roles of such T-cell and myeloid cell interactions in the frame of human cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Vermare
- Université Paris Cité, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France;
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013 Paris, France
| | | | | | - Nadège Bercovici
- Université Paris Cité, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France;
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Zhang D, Liu Y, Zhu Y, Zhang Q, Guan H, Liu S, Chen S, Mei C, Chen C, Liao Z, Xi Y, Ouyang S, Feng XH, Liang T, Shen L, Xu P. A non-canonical cGAS-STING-PERK pathway facilitates the translational program critical for senescence and organ fibrosis. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:766-782. [PMID: 35501370 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Innate DNA sensing via the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) mechanism surveys microbial invasion and cellular damage and thus participates in various human infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and cancers. However, how DNA sensing rapidly and adaptively shapes cellular physiology is incompletely known. Here we identify the STING-PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)-eIF2α pathway, a previously unknown cGAS-STING mechanism, enabling an innate immunity control of cap-dependent messenger RNA translation. Upon cGAMP binding, STING at the ER binds and directly activates the ER-located kinase PERK via their intracellular domains, which precedes TBK1-IRF3 activation and is irrelevant to the unfolded protein response. The activated PERK phosphorylates eIF2α, forming an inflammatory- and survival-preferred translation program. Notably, this STING-PERK-eIF2α pathway is evolutionarily primitive and physiologically critical to cellular senescence and organ fibrosis. Pharmacologically or genetically targeting this non-canonical cGAS-STING pathway attenuated lung and kidney fibrosis. Collectively, the findings identify an alternative innate immune pathway and its critical role in organ fibrosis, report an innate immunity-directed translation program and suggest the therapeutic potential for targeting the STING-PERK pathway in treating fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yutong Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yezhang Zhu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University (HIC-ZJU), Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongxing Guan
- The Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shengduo Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University (HIC-ZJU), Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shasha Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chen Mei
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Liao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Xi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Songying Ouyang
- The Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xin-Hua Feng
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China. .,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Li Shen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Pinglong Xu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China. .,Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University (HIC-ZJU), Hangzhou, China. .,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Liu Z, Zhang Y, Shen N, Sun J, Tang Z, Chen X. Destruction of tumor vasculature by vascular disrupting agents in overcoming the limitation of EPR effect. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 183:114138. [PMID: 35143895 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Nanomedicine greatly improves the efficiency in the delivery of antitumor drugs into the tumor, but insufficient tumoral penetration impairs the therapeutic efficacy of most nanomedicines. Vascular disrupting agent (VDA) nanomedicines are distributed around the tumor vessels due to the low tissue penetration in solid tumors, and the released drugs can selectively destroy immature tumor vessels and block the supply of oxygen and nutrients, leading to the internal necrosis of the tumors. VDAs can also improve the vascular permeability of the tumor, further increasing the extravasation of VDA nanomedicines in the tumor site, markedly reducing the dependence of nanomedicines on the enhanced permeability and retention effect (EPR effect). This review highlights the progress of VDA nanomedicines in recent years and their application in cancer therapy. First, the mechanisms of different VDAs are introduced. Subsequently, different strategies of delivering VDAs are described. Finally, multiple combination strategies with VDA nanomedicines in cancer therapy are described in detail.
Collapse
|
36
|
Shen R, Liu D, Wang X, Guo Z, Sun H, Song Y, Wang D. DNA Damage and Activation of cGAS/STING Pathway Induce Tumor Microenvironment Remodeling. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:828657. [PMID: 35265630 PMCID: PMC8900217 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.828657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA damage occurs throughout tumorigenesis and development. The immunogenicity of DNA makes it an immune stimulatory molecule that initiates strong inflammatory responses. The cGAS/STING pathway has been investigated as a critical receptor in both exogenous and endogenous DNA sensing to activate the innate immune response. Growing lines of evidence have indicated that activation of the cGAS/STING pathway is critical in antitumor immunity. Recent studies have demonstrated the outstanding advancement of this pathway in tumor-combined immunotherapy; accordingly, increased studies focus on exploration of STING pathway agonists and analogues. However, current studies propose the potential use of the cGAS/STING pathway in tumor initiation and metastasis. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms and activation of the cGAS/STING pathway, and the relationship between DNA damage and this pathway, particularly highlighting the remodeling of immune contexture in tumor environment (TME) triggered by cascade inflammatory signals. A detailed understanding of TME reprogramming initiated by this pathway may pave the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies and rational clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Disheng Liu
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhao Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haonan Sun
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yanfeng Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Degui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Brady SW, Gout AM, Zhang J. Therapeutic and prognostic insights from the analysis of cancer mutational signatures. Trends Genet 2022; 38:194-208. [PMID: 34483003 PMCID: PMC8752466 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The somatic mutations in each cancer genome are caused by multiple mutational processes, each of which leaves a characteristic imprint (or 'signature'), potentially caused by specific etiologies or exposures. Deconvolution of these signatures offers a glimpse into the evolutionary history of individual tumors. Recent work has shown that mutational signatures may also yield therapeutic and prognostic insights, including the identification of cell-intrinsic signatures as biomarkers of drug response and prognosis. For example, mutational signatures indicating homologous recombination deficiency are associated with poly(ADP)-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor sensitivity, whereas APOBEC-associated signatures are associated with ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase (ATR) inhibitor sensitivity. Furthermore, therapy-induced mutational signatures implicated in cancer progression have also been uncovered, including the identification of thiopurine-induced TP53 mutations in leukemia. In this review, we explore the various ways mutational signatures can reveal new therapeutic and prognostic insights, thus extending their traditional role in identifying disease etiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Brady
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Alexander M Gout
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jinghui Zhang
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Milling LE, Garafola D, Agarwal Y, Wu S, Thomas A, Donahue N, Adams J, Thai N, Suh H, Irvine DJ. Neoadjuvant STING Activation, Extended Half-life IL2, and Checkpoint Blockade Promote Metastasis Clearance via Sustained NK-cell Activation. Cancer Immunol Res 2022; 10:26-39. [PMID: 34686488 PMCID: PMC8732307 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Combination immunotherapy treatments that recruit both innate and adaptive immunity have the potential to increase cancer response rates by engaging a more complete repertoire of effector mechanisms. Here, we combined intratumoral STimulator of INterferon Genes (STING) agonist therapy with systemically injected extended half-life IL2 and anti-PD-1 checkpoint blockade (hereafter CIP therapy) to drive innate and adaptive antitumor immunity in models of triple-negative breast cancer. Unlike treatment with the individual components, this trivalent immunotherapy halted primary tumor progression and led to long-term remission for a majority of animals in two spontaneously metastasizing orthotopic breast tumor models, though only as a neoadjuvant therapy but not adjuvant therapy. CIP therapy induced antitumor T-cell responses, but protection from metastatic relapse depended on natural killer (NK) cells. The combination of STING agonists with IL2/anti-PD-1 synergized to stimulate sustained granzyme and cytokine expression by lung-infiltrating NK cells. Type I IFNs generated as a result of STING agonism, combined with IL2, acted in a positive-feedback loop by enhancing the expression of IFNAR-1 and CD25 on lung NK cells. These results suggest that NK cells can be therapeutically targeted to effectively eliminate tumor metastases.See related Spotlight by Demaria, p. 3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Milling
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel Garafola
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Yash Agarwal
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Shengwei Wu
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ayush Thomas
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Nathan Donahue
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Josetta Adams
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Nikki Thai
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Heikyung Suh
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Darrell J Irvine
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
The cGAS-STING signaling in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases: Future novel target option for pharmacotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:50-75. [PMID: 35127372 PMCID: PMC8799861 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling exert essential regulatory function in microbial-and onco-immunology through the induction of cytokines, primarily type I interferons. Recently, the aberrant and deranged signaling of the cGAS-STING axis is closely implicated in multiple sterile inflammatory diseases, including heart failure, myocardial infarction, cardiac hypertrophy, nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases, aortic aneurysm and dissection, obesity, etc. This is because of the massive loads of damage-associated molecular patterns (mitochondrial DNA, DNA in extracellular vesicles) liberated from recurrent injury to metabolic cellular organelles and tissues, which are sensed by the pathway. Also, the cGAS-STING pathway crosstalk with essential intracellular homeostasis processes like apoptosis, autophagy, and regulate cellular metabolism. Targeting derailed STING signaling has become necessary for chronic inflammatory diseases. Meanwhile, excessive type I interferons signaling impact on cardiovascular and metabolic health remain entirely elusive. In this review, we summarize the intimate connection between the cGAS-STING pathway and cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. We also discuss some potential small molecule inhibitors for the pathway. This review provides insight to stimulate interest in and support future research into understanding this signaling axis in cardiovascular and metabolic tissues and diseases.
Collapse
Key Words
- AA, amino acids
- AAD, aortic aneurysm and dissection
- AKT, protein kinase B
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- ATP, adenosine triphosphate
- Ang II, angiotensin II
- CBD, C-binding domain
- CDG, c-di-GMP
- CDNs, cyclic dinucleotides
- CTD, C-terminal domain
- CTT, C-terminal tail
- CVDs, cardiovascular diseases
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cys, cysteine
- DAMPs, danger-associated molecular patterns
- Damage-associated molecular patterns
- DsbA-L, disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein
- ER stress
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- GTP, guanosine triphosphate
- HAQ, R71H-G230A-R293Q
- HFD, high-fat diet
- ICAM-1, intracellular adhesion molecule 1
- IFN, interferon
- IFN-I, type 1 interferon
- IFNAR, interferon receptors
- IFNIC, interferon-inducible cells
- IKK, IκB kinase
- IL, interleukin
- IRF3, interferon regulatory factor 3
- ISGs, IRF-3-dependent interferon-stimulated genes
- Inflammation
- LBD, ligand-binding pocket
- LPS, lipopolysaccharides
- MI, myocardial infarction
- MLKL, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein
- MST1, mammalian Ste20-like kinases 1
- Metabolic diseases
- Mitochondria
- NAFLD, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-kappa B
- NLRP3, NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3
- NO2-FA, nitro-fatty acids
- NTase, nucleotidyltransferase
- PDE3B/4, phosphodiesterase-3B/4
- PKA, protein kinase A
- PPI, protein–protein interface
- Poly: I.C, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SAVI, STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy
- SNPs, single nucleotide polymorphisms
- STIM1, stromal interaction molecule 1
- STING
- STING, stimulator of interferon genes
- Ser, serine
- TAK1, transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1
- TBK1, TANK-binding kinase 1
- TFAM, mitochondrial transcription factor A
- TLR, Toll-like receptors
- TM, transmembrane
- TNFα, tumor necrosis factor-alpha
- TRAF6, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6
- TREX1, three prime repair exonuclease 1
- YAP1, Yes-associated protein 1
- cGAMP, 2′,3′-cyclic GMP–AMP
- cGAS
- cGAS, cyclic GMP–AMP synthase
- dsDNA, double-stranded DNA
- hSTING, human stimulator of interferon genes
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA
Collapse
|
40
|
Ye Y, Xu C, Chen F, Liu Q, Cheng N. Targeting Innate Immunity in Breast Cancer Therapy: A Narrative Review. Front Immunol 2021; 12:771201. [PMID: 34899721 PMCID: PMC8656691 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.771201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although breast cancer has been previously considered "cold" tumors, numerous studies are currently conducted to explore the great potentials of immunotherapies in improving breast cancer patient outcomes. In addition to the focus on stimulating adaptive immunity for antitumor responses, growing evidence showed the importance of triggering host innate immunity to eradicate established tumors and/or control tumor metastasis of breast cancer. In this review, we first briefly introduce the breast tumor immune microenvironment. We also discuss innate immune targets and pathways and mechanisms of their synergy with the adaptive antitumor response and other treatment strategies. Lastly, we review clinical trials targeting innate immune pathways for breast cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanqi Ye
- Zenomics. Inc. Magnify at California NanoSystems Institute, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Chun Xu
- School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Fengqian Chen
- School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ning Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wang K, Donnelly CR, Jiang C, Liao Y, Luo X, Tao X, Bang S, McGinnis A, Lee M, Hilton MJ, Ji RR. STING suppresses bone cancer pain via immune and neuronal modulation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4558. [PMID: 34315904 PMCID: PMC8316360 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24867-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with advanced stage cancers frequently suffer from severe pain as a result of bone metastasis and bone destruction, for which there is no efficacious treatment. Here, using multiple mouse models of bone cancer, we report that agonists of the immune regulator STING (stimulator of interferon genes) confer remarkable protection against cancer pain, bone destruction, and local tumor burden. Repeated systemic administration of STING agonists robustly attenuates bone cancer-induced pain and improves locomotor function. Interestingly, STING agonists produce acute pain relief through direct neuronal modulation. Additionally, STING agonists protect against local bone destruction and reduce local tumor burden through modulation of osteoclast and immune cell function in the tumor microenvironment, providing long-term cancer pain relief. Finally, these in vivo effects are dependent on host-intrinsic STING and IFN-I signaling. Overall, STING activation provides unique advantages in controlling bone cancer pain through distinct and synergistic actions on nociceptors, immune cells, and osteoclasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyuan Wang
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Christopher R Donnelly
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Changyu Jiang
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yihan Liao
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Xin Luo
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Xueshu Tao
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sangsu Bang
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Aidan McGinnis
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael Lee
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Matthew J Hilton
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Rech L, Rainer PP. The Innate Immune cGAS-STING-Pathway in Cardiovascular Diseases - A Mini Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:715903. [PMID: 34381828 PMCID: PMC8349977 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.715903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a central role in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). One pathway under investigation is the innate immune DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and its downstream receptor stimulator of interferon genes (STING). cGAS-STING upregulates type I interferons in response to pathogens. Recent studies show that also self-DNA may activate cGAS-STING, for instance, DNA released from nuclei or mitochondria during obesity or myocardial infarction. Here, we focus on emerging evidence describing the interaction of cGAS-STING with cardiovascular risk factors and disease. We also touch on translational therapeutic opportunities and potential further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Rech
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Peter P Rainer
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed Graz, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Refractoriness of STING therapy is relieved by AKT inhibitor through effective vascular disruption in tumour. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4405. [PMID: 34285232 PMCID: PMC8292391 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24603-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) promotes anti-tumour immunity by linking innate and adaptive immunity, but it remains unclear how intratumoural treatment with STING agonists yields anti-tumour effects. Here we demonstrate that intratumoural injection of the STING agonist cGAMP induces strong, rapid, and selective apoptosis of tumour endothelial cells (ECs) in implanted LLC tumour, melanoma and breast tumour, but not in spontaneous breast cancer and melanoma. In both implanted and spontaneous tumours, cGAMP greatly increases TNFα from tumour-associated myeloid cells. However, compared to spontaneous tumour ECs, implanted tumour ECs are more vulnerable to TNFα-TNFR1 signalling-mediated apoptosis, which promotes effective anti-tumour activity. The spontaneous tumour's refractoriness to cGAMP is abolished by co-treatment with AKT 1/2 inhibitor (AKTi). Combined treatment with cGAMP and AKTi induces extensive tumour EC apoptosis, leading to extensive tumour apoptosis and marked growth suppression of the spontaneous tumour. These findings propose an advanced avenue for treating primary tumours that are refractory to single STING agonist therapy.
Collapse
|
44
|
Inflammation and tumor progression: signaling pathways and targeted intervention. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:263. [PMID: 34248142 PMCID: PMC8273155 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00658-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 826] [Impact Index Per Article: 275.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer development and its response to therapy are regulated by inflammation, which either promotes or suppresses tumor progression, potentially displaying opposing effects on therapeutic outcomes. Chronic inflammation facilitates tumor progression and treatment resistance, whereas induction of acute inflammatory reactions often stimulates the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and antigen presentation, leading to anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, multiple signaling pathways, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT), toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways, cGAS/STING, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK); inflammatory factors, including cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL), interferon (IFN), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α), chemokines (e.g., C-C motif chemokine ligands (CCLs) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligands (CXCLs)), growth factors (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β), and inflammasome; as well as inflammatory metabolites including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxane, and specialized proresolving mediators (SPM), have been identified as pivotal regulators of the initiation and resolution of inflammation. Nowadays, local irradiation, recombinant cytokines, neutralizing antibodies, small-molecule inhibitors, DC vaccines, oncolytic viruses, TLR agonists, and SPM have been developed to specifically modulate inflammation in cancer therapy, with some of these factors already undergoing clinical trials. Herein, we discuss the initiation and resolution of inflammation, the crosstalk between tumor development and inflammatory processes. We also highlight potential targets for harnessing inflammation in the treatment of cancer.
Collapse
|
45
|
Seclì L, Avalle L, Poggio P, Fragale G, Cannata C, Conti L, Iannucci A, Carrà G, Rubinetto C, Miniscalco B, Hirsch E, Poli V, Morotti A, De Andrea M, Turco E, Cavallo F, Fusella F, Brancaccio M. Targeting the extracellular HSP90 co-chaperone Morgana inhibits cancer cell migration and promotes anti-cancer immunity. Cancer Res 2021; 81:4794-4807. [PMID: 34193441 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-3150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is secreted by cancer cells into the extracellular milieu, where it exerts pro-tumoral activities by activating extracellular substrate proteins and triggering autocrine signals through cancer cell surface receptors. Emerging evidence indicates that HSP90 co-chaperones are also secreted and may direct HSP90 extracellular activities. In this study, we found that the HSP90 co-chaperone Morgana is released by cancer cells and, in association with HSP90, induces cancer cell migration through TLR2, TLR4, and LRP1. In syngeneic cancer mouse models, a monoclonal antibody targeting Morgana extracellular activity reduced primary tumor growth via macrophage-dependent recruitment of CD8+ T lymphocytes, blocked cancer cell migration, and inhibited metastatic spreading. Overall, this data defines Morgana as a new player in the HSP90 extracellular interactome and suggests that Morgana may regulate HSP90 activity to promote cancer cell migration and suppress anti-tumor immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Seclì
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Lidia Avalle
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Pietro Poggio
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Giuseppe Fragale
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | | | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences - Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin
| | - Andrea Iannucci
- CAAD-Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont
| | - Giovanna Carrà
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin
| | | | | | - Emilio Hirsch
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Valeria Poli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | | | - Marco De Andrea
- Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, Medical School
| | - Emilia Turco
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Molecular Biotechnology Center
| | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Federica Fusella
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| | - Mara Brancaccio
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Curtis LT, Sebens S, Frieboes HB. Modeling of tumor response to macrophage and T lymphocyte interactions in the liver metastatic microenvironment. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2021; 70:1475-1488. [PMID: 33180183 PMCID: PMC10992133 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-020-02785-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The dynamic interactions between macrophages and T-lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment exert both antagonistic and synergistic functions affecting tumor growth. Extensive experimental effort has been expended to investigate immunotherapeutic strategies targeting macrophage polarization as well as T-cell activation with the goal to promote tumor cell killing and cancer elimination. However, these interactions remain poorly understood, and cancer immunotherapeutic strategies are often disappointing. The complex system encompassing innate and adaptive immune cell activity in response to tumor growth could benefit from a systems perspective built upon mathematical modeling. This study develops a modeling system to help evaluate the effects of macrophage and T-lymphocyte interactions on tumor growth. The system enables simulating the combined cytotoxic and tumor-promoting interactions of these two immune cell populations in a vascularized organ microenvironment, such as in liver metastases. A hypothetical immunotherapeutic strategy is simulated to increase the number of tumor-suppressive (M1-phenotype) vs. tumor-promoting (M2-phenotype) macrophages to gauge their effects on CD8+ T-cells and CD4+ T-helper cells, which in turn affect the macrophage functions. The results highlight the dynamic interactions between macrophages and T-lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment and show that with the chosen set of parameter values, the overall cytotoxic effect from macrophages and T-lymphocytes obtained by driving the M1:M2 ratio higher could saturate and fail to achieve tumor regression. Further expansion of this modeling platform to include additional tumor-immune cell interactions, coupled with parameters representing particular tumor characteristics, could enable systematic evaluation of immunotherapeutic strategies tailored to patient-tumor specific conditions, including metastatic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louis T Curtis
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Lutz Hall 419, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Susanne Sebens
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel (CAU), Kiel, Germany
- University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein (UK-SH), Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hermann B Frieboes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Lutz Hall 419, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hemphill WO, Simpson SR, Liu M, Salsbury FR, Hollis T, Grayson JM, Perrino FW. TREX1 as a Novel Immunotherapeutic Target. Front Immunol 2021; 12:660184. [PMID: 33868310 PMCID: PMC8047136 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.660184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the TREX1 3' → 5' exonuclease are associated with a spectrum of autoimmune disease phenotypes in humans and mice. Failure to degrade DNA activates the cGAS-STING DNA-sensing pathway signaling a type-I interferon (IFN) response that ultimately drives immune system activation. TREX1 and the cGAS-STING DNA-sensing pathway have also been implicated in the tumor microenvironment, where TREX1 is proposed to degrade tumor-derived DNA that would otherwise activate cGAS-STING. If tumor-derived DNA were not degraded, the cGAS-STING pathway would be activated to promote IFN-dependent antitumor immunity. Thus, we hypothesize TREX1 exonuclease inhibition as a novel immunotherapeutic strategy. We present data demonstrating antitumor immunity in the TREX1 D18N mouse model and discuss theory surrounding the best strategy for TREX1 inhibition. Potential complications of TREX1 inhibition as a therapeutic strategy are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wayne O. Hemphill
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Sean R. Simpson
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Mingyong Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Freddie R. Salsbury
- Department of Physics, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Thomas Hollis
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Jason M. Grayson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Fred W. Perrino
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Stump CT, Ho G, Mao C, Veliz FA, Beiss V, Fields J, Steinmetz NF, Fiering S. Remission-Stage Ovarian Cancer Cell Vaccine with Cowpea Mosaic Virus Adjuvant Prevents Tumor Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:627. [PMID: 33562450 PMCID: PMC7915664 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological malignancy. Though most patients enter remission following initial interventions, relapse is common and often fatal. Accordingly, there is a substantial need for ovarian cancer therapies that prevent relapse. Following remission generated by surgical debulking and chemotherapy, but prior to relapse, resected and inactivated tumor tissue could be used as a personalized vaccine antigen source. The patient's own tumor contains relevant antigens and, when combined with the appropriate adjuvant, could generate systemic antitumor immunity to prevent relapse. Here, we model this process in mice to investigate the optimal tumor preparation and vaccine adjuvant. Cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) has shown remarkable efficacy as an immunostimulatory cancer therapy in ovarian cancer mouse models, so we use CPMV as an adjuvant in a prophylactic vaccine against a murine ovarian cancer model. Compared to its codelivery with tumor antigens prepared in three other ways, we show that CPMV co-delivered with irradiated ovarian cancer cells constitutes an effective prophylactic vaccine against a syngeneic model of ovarian cancer in C57BL/6J mice. Following two vaccinations, 72% of vaccinated mice reject tumor challenges, and all those mice survived subsequent rechallenges, demonstrating immunologic memory formation. This study supports remission-stage vaccines using irradiated patient tumor tissue as a promising option for treating ovarian cancer, and validates CPMV as an antitumor vaccine adjuvant for that purpose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney T. Stump
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA;
| | - Gregory Ho
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; (G.H.); (C.M.)
| | - Chenkai Mao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; (G.H.); (C.M.)
| | - Frank A. Veliz
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - Veronique Beiss
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (V.B.); (N.F.S.)
| | - Jennifer Fields
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
| | - Nicole F. Steinmetz
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (V.B.); (N.F.S.)
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Steven Fiering
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; (G.H.); (C.M.)
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Nagata M, Kosaka A, Yajima Y, Yasuda S, Ohara M, Ohara K, Harabuchi S, Hayashi R, Funakoshi H, Ueda J, Kumai T, Nagato T, Oikawa K, Harabuchi Y, Esteban C, Ohkuri T, Kobayashi H. A critical role of STING-triggered tumor-migrating neutrophils for anti-tumor effect of intratumoral cGAMP treatment. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2021; 70:2301-2312. [PMID: 33507344 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-021-02864-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) contributes to anti-tumor immunity by activating antigen-presenting cells and inducing mobilization of tumor-specific T cells. A role for tumor-migrating neutrophils in the anti-tumor effect of STING-activating therapy has not been defined. We used mouse tumor transplantation models for assessing neutrophil migration into the tumor triggered by intratumoral treatment with STING agonist, 2'3'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP). Intratumoral STING activation with cGAMP enhanced neutrophil migration into the tumor in an NF-κB/CXCL1/2-dependent manner. Blocking the neutrophil migration by anti-CXCR2 monoclonal antibody impaired T cell activation in tumor-draining lymph nodes (dLNs) and efficacy of intratumoral cGAMP treatment. Moreover, the intratumoral cGAMP treatment did not show any anti-tumor effect in type I interferon (IFN) signal-impaired mice in spite of enhanced neutrophil accumulation in the tumor. These results suggest that both neutrophil migration and type I interferon (IFN) induction by intratumoral cGAMP treatment were critical for T-cell activation of dLNs and the anti-tumor effect. In addition, we also performed in vitro analysis showing enhanced cytotoxicity of neutrophils by IFN-β1. Extrinsic STING activation triggers anti-tumor immune responses by recruiting and activating neutrophils in the tumor via two signaling pathways, CXCL1/2 and type I IFNs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marino Nagata
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Akemi Kosaka
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Yuki Yajima
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Syunsuke Yasuda
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Mizuho Ohara
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kenzo Ohara
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Shohei Harabuchi
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Ryusuke Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Funakoshi
- Deprtment of Advanced Medical Science, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Jun Ueda
- Deprtment of Advanced Medical Science, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Takumi Kumai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Nagato
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kensuke Oikawa
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Harabuchi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Celis Esteban
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Takayuki Ohkuri
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Hiroya Kobayashi
- Department of Pathology, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ghonim MA, Ibba SV, Tarhuni AF, Errami Y, Luu HH, Dean MJ, El-Bahrawy AH, Wyczechowska D, Benslimane IA, Del Valle L, Al-Khami AA, Ochoa AC, Boulares AH. Targeting PARP-1 with metronomic therapy modulates MDSC suppressive function and enhances anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in colon cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2020-001643. [PMID: 33495297 PMCID: PMC7839867 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors (eg, olaparib) are effective against BRCA-mutated cancers at/near maximum tolerated doses by trapping PARP-1 on damaged chromatin, benefitting only small patient proportions. The benefits of targeting non-DNA repair aspects of PARP with metronomic doses remain unexplored. Methods Colon epithelial cells or mouse or human bone marrow (BM)-derived-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) were stimulated to assess the effect of partial PARP-1 inhibition on inflammatory gene expression or immune suppression. Mice treated with azoxymethane/four dextran-sulfate-sodium cycles or APCMin/+ mice bred into PARP-1+/− or treated with olaparib were used to examine the role of PARP-1 in colitis-induced or spontaneous colon cancer, respectively. Syngeneic MC-38 cell-based (microsatellite instability, MSIhigh) or CT-26 cell-based (microsatellite stable, MSS) tumor models were used to assess the effects of PARP inhibition on host responses and synergy with anti-Programmed cell Death protein (PD)-1 immunotherapy. Results Partial PARP-1 inhibition, via gene heterozygosity or a moderate dose of olaparib, protected against colitis-mediated/APCMin-mediated intestinal tumorigenesis and APCMin-associated cachexia, while extensive inhibition, via gene knockout or a high dose of olaparib, was ineffective or aggravating. A sub-IC50-olaparib dose or PARP-1 heterozygosity was sufficient to block tumorigenesis in a syngeneic colon cancer model by modulating the suppressive function, but not intratumoral migration or differentiation, of MDSCs, with concomitant increases in intratumoral T cell function and cytotoxicity, as assessed by granzyme-B/interferon-γ levels. Adoptive transfer of WT-BM-MDSCs abolished the protective effects of PARP-1 heterozygosity. The mechanism of MDSC modulation involved a reduction in arginase-1/inducible nitric oxide synthase/cyclo-oxygenase-2, but independent of PARP-1 trapping on chromatin. Although a high-concentration olaparib or the high-trapping PARP inhibitor, talazoparib, activated stimulator of interferon gene (STING) in BRCA-proficient cells and induced DNA damage, sub-IC50 concentrations of either drug failed to induce activation of the dsDNA break sensor. STING expression appeared dispensable for MDSC suppressive function and was not strictly required for olaparib-mediated effects. Ironically, STING activation blocked human and mouse MDSC function with no additive effects with olaparib. A metronomic dose of olaparib was highly synergistic with anti-PD-1-based immunotherapy, leading to eradication of MSIhigh or reduction of MSS tumors in mice. Conclusions These results support a paradigm-shifting concept that expands the utility of PARP inhibitor and encourage testing metronomic dosing of PARP inhibitor to enhance the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitor-based immunotherapies in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Ghonim
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Salome V Ibba
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Abdelmetalab F Tarhuni
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Youssef Errami
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Hanh H Luu
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Matthew J Dean
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ali H El-Bahrawy
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Dorota Wyczechowska
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ilyes A Benslimane
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Luis Del Valle
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Amir A Al-Khami
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Augusto C Ochoa
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - A Hamid Boulares
- Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|