1
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Salim F, Mizutani S, Shiba S, Takamaru H, Yamada M, Nakajima T, Yachida T, Soga T, Saito Y, Fukuda S, Yachida S, Yamada T. Fusobacterium species are distinctly associated with patients with Lynch syndrome colorectal cancer. iScience 2024; 27:110181. [PMID: 38993678 PMCID: PMC11237946 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence demonstrates clear correlation between the gut microbiota and sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite this, there is limited understanding of the association between the gut microbiota and CRC in Lynch Syndrome (LS), a hereditary type of CRC. Here, we analyzed fecal shotgun metagenomic and targeted metabolomic of 71 Japanese LS subjects. A previously published Japanese sporadic CRC cohort, which includes non-LS controls, was utilized as a non-LS cohort (n = 437). LS subjects exhibited reduced microbial diversity and low-Faecalibacterium enterotypes compared to non-LS. Patients with LS-CRC had higher levels of Fusobacterium nucleatum and fap2. Differential fecal metabolites and functional genes suggest heightened degradation of lysine and arginine in LS-CRC. A comparison between LS and non-LS subjects prior to adenoma formation revealed distinct fecal metabolites of LS subjects. These findings suggest that the gut microbiota plays a more responsive role in CRC tumorigenesis in patients with LS than those without LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Salim
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Sayaka Mizutani
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
- Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Shiba
- Division of Cancer Genomics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Takamaru
- Endoscopy Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Chuo-ku 104-0045, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Yamada
- Endoscopy Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Chuo-ku 104-0045, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nakajima
- Endoscopy Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Chuo-ku 104-0045, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Yachida
- Department of Gastroenterology & Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Tomoyoshi Soga
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
| | - Yutaka Saito
- Endoscopy Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Chuo-ku 104-0045, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Fukuda
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
- Gut Environmental Design Group, Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-0821, Japan
- Transborder Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Laboratory for Regenerative Microbiology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Metagen, Inc., Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
- Metagen Theurapeutics, Inc., Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
| | - Shinichi Yachida
- Department of Cancer Genome Informatics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takuji Yamada
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
- Metagen, Inc., Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
- Metagen Theurapeutics, Inc., Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-0052, Japan
- digzyme, Inc., Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan
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2
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Dal Buono A, Puccini A, Franchellucci G, Airoldi M, Bartolini M, Bianchi P, Santoro A, Repici A, Hassan C. Lynch Syndrome: From Multidisciplinary Management to Precision Prevention. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:849. [PMID: 38473212 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050849] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Lynch syndrome (LS) is currently one of the most prevalent hereditary cancer conditions, accounting for 3% of all colorectal cancers and for up to 15% of those with DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency, and it was one of the first historically identified. The understanding of the molecular carcinogenesis of LS tumors has progressed significantly in recent years. We aim to review the most recent advances in LS research and explore genotype-based approaches in surveillance, personalized cancer prevention, and treatment strategies. METHODS PubMed was searched to identify relevant studies, conducted up to December 2023, investigating molecular carcinogenesis in LS, surveillance strategies, cancer prevention, and treatment in LS tumors. RESULTS Multigene panel sequencing is becoming the benchmark in the diagnosis of LS, allowing for the detection of a pathogenic constitutional variant in one of the MMR genes. Emerging data from randomized controlled trials suggest possible preventive roles of resistant starch and/or aspirin in LS. Vaccination with immunogenic frameshift peptides appears to be a promising approach for both the treatment and prevention of LS-associated cancers, as evidenced by pre-clinical and preliminary phase 1/2a studies. CONCLUSIONS Although robust diagnostic algorithms, including prompt testing of tumor tissue for MMR defects and referral for genetic counselling, currently exist for suspected LS in CRC patients, the indications for LS screening in cancer-free individuals still need to be refined and standardized. Investigation into additional genetic and non-genetic factors that may explain residual rates of interval cancers, even in properly screened populations, would allow for more tailored preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Dal Buono
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Puccini
- Medical Oncology and Haematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Franchellucci
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Airoldi
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Bartolini
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Bianchi
- Clinical Analysis Laboratory, Oncological Molecular Genetics Section, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Santoro
- Medical Oncology and Haematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Repici
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Cesare Hassan
- Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
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3
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Bolivar AM, Duzagac F, Sinha KM, Vilar E. Advances in vaccine development for cancer prevention and treatment in Lynch Syndrome. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 93:101204. [PMID: 37478804 PMCID: PMC10528439 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101204] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Lynch Syndrome (LS) is one of the most common hereditary cancer syndromes, and is caused by mutations in one of the four DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes, namely MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2. Tumors developed by LS carriers display high levels of microsatellite instability, which leads to the accumulation of large numbers of mutations, among which frameshift insertion/deletions (indels) within microsatellite (MS) loci are the most common. As a result, MMR-deficient (MMRd) cells generate increased rates of tumor-specific neoantigens (neoAgs) that can be recognized by the immune system to activate cancer cell killing. In this context, LS is an ideal disease to leverage immune-interception strategies. Therefore, the identification of these neoAgs is an ongoing effort for the development of LS cancer preventive vaccines. In this review, we summarize the computational methods used for in silico neoAg prediction, including their challenges, and the experimental techniques used for in vitro validation of their immunogenicity. In addition, we outline results from past and on-going vaccine clinical trials and highlight avenues for improvement and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Bolivar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fahriye Duzagac
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krishna M Sinha
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eduardo Vilar
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Peltomäki P, Nyström M, Mecklin JP, Seppälä TT. Lynch Syndrome Genetics and Clinical Implications. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:783-799. [PMID: 36706841 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.08.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS) is one of the most prevalent hereditary cancer syndromes in humans and accounts for some 3% of unselected patients with colorectal or endometrial cancer and 10%-15% of those with DNA mismatch repair-deficient tumors. Previous studies have established the genetic basis of LS predisposition, but there have been significant advances recently in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of LS tumors, which has important implications in clinical management. At the same time, immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of advanced cancers with DNA mismatch repair defects. We aim to review the recent progress in the LS field and discuss how the accumulating epidemiologic, clinical, and molecular information has contributed to a more accurate and complete picture of LS, resulting in genotype- and immunologic subtype-specific strategies for surveillance, cancer prevention, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Päivi Peltomäki
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Minna Nyström
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka-Pekka Mecklin
- Department of Education and Science, Nova Hospital, Central Finland Health Care District, Jyväskylä, Finland; Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Toni T Seppälä
- Department of Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Applied Tumor Genomics Research Programs Unit, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tays Cancer Center, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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5
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Grolmusz VK, Nagy P, Likó I, Butz H, Pócza T, Bozsik A, Papp J, Oláh E, Patócs A. A common genetic variation in GZMB may associate with cancer risk in patients with Lynch syndrome. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1005066. [PMID: 36890824 PMCID: PMC9986427 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1005066] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS), also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome (HNPCC) is a common genetic predisposition to cancer due to germline mutations in genes affecting DNA mismatch repair. Due to mismatch repair deficiency, developing tumors are characterized by microsatellite instability (MSI-H), high frequency of expressed neoantigens and good clinical response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Granzyme B (GrB) is the most abundant serine protease in the granules of cytotoxic T-cells and natural killer cells, mediating anti-tumor immunity. However, recent results confirm a diverse range of physiological functions of GrB including that in extracellular matrix remodelling, inflammation and fibrosis. In the present study, our aim was to investigate whether a frequent genetic variation of GZMB, the gene encoding GrB, constituted by three missense single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs2236338, rs11539752 and rs8192917) has any association with cancer risk in individuals with LS. In silico analysis and genotype calls from whole exome sequencing data in the Hungarian population confirmed that these SNPs are closely linked. Genotyping results of rs8192917 on a cohort of 145 individuals with LS demonstrated an association of the CC genotype with lower cancer risk. In silico prediction proposed likely GrB cleavage sites in a high proportion of shared neontigens in MSI-H tumors. Our results propose the CC genotype of rs8192917 as a potential disease-modifying genetic factor in LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vince Kornél Grolmusz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Petra Nagy
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Likó
- Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Henriett Butz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,National Oncology Biobank Center, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Pócza
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anikó Bozsik
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - János Papp
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit Oláh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Patócs
- Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Cancers Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network - Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,National Tumorbiology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
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6
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Garg T, Weiss CR, Sheth RA. Techniques for Profiling the Cellular Immune Response and Their Implications for Interventional Oncology. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3628. [PMID: 35892890 PMCID: PMC9332307 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years there has been increased interest in using the immune contexture of the primary tumors to predict the patient's prognosis. The tumor microenvironment of patients with cancers consists of different types of lymphocytes, tumor-infiltrating leukocytes, dendritic cells, and others. Different technologies can be used for the evaluation of the tumor microenvironment, all of which require a tissue or cell sample. Image-guided tissue sampling is a cornerstone in the diagnosis, stratification, and longitudinal evaluation of therapeutic efficacy for cancer patients receiving immunotherapies. Therefore, interventional radiologists (IRs) play an essential role in the evaluation of patients treated with systemically administered immunotherapies. This review provides a detailed description of different technologies used for immune assessment and analysis of the data collected from the use of these technologies. The detailed approach provided herein is intended to provide the reader with the knowledge necessary to not only interpret studies containing such data but also design and apply these tools for clinical practice and future research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tushar Garg
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (T.G.); (C.R.W.)
| | - Clifford R. Weiss
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (T.G.); (C.R.W.)
| | - Rahul A. Sheth
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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7
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Curtius K, Gupta S, Boland CR. Review article: Lynch Syndrome-a mechanistic and clinical management update. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:960-977. [PMID: 35315099 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lynch syndrome (LS) is an autosomal dominant familial condition caused by a pathogenic variant (PV) in a DNA mismatch repair gene, which then predisposes carriers to various cancers. AIM To review the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis and clinical strategies for detection and management of LS. METHODS A narrative review synthesising knowledge from published literature, as well as current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for management of LS was conducted. RESULTS LS tumours are characterised by unique pathogenesis, ultimately resulting in hypermutation, microsatellite instability and high immunogenicity that has significant implications for cancer risk, clinical presentation, treatment and surveillance. LS is one of the most common hereditary causes of cancer, and about 1 in 279 individuals carry a PV in an LS gene that predisposes to associated cancers. Individuals with LS have increased risks for colorectal, endometrial and other cancers, with significant variation in lifetime risk by LS-associated gene. CONCLUSIONS As genetic testing becomes more widespread, the number of individuals identified with LS is expected to increase in the population. Understanding the pathogenesis of LS informs current strategies for detection and clinical management, and also guides future areas for clinical innovation. Unravelling the mechanisms by which these tumours evolve may help to more precisely tailor management by the gene involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kit Curtius
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Samir Gupta
- Section of Gastroenterology, San Diego Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - C Richard Boland
- Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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8
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Landscape of Immunotherapy Options for Colorectal Cancer: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives beyond Immune Checkpoint Blockade. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020229. [PMID: 35207516 PMCID: PMC8878674 DOI: 10.3390/life12020229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent malignancy in Western countries and a major cause of death despite recent improvements in screening programs and early detection methods. In the last decade, a growing effort has been put into better understanding how the immune system interacts with cancer cells. Even if treatments with immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-PD1, anti-PD-L1, anti-CTLA4) were proven effective for several cancer types, the benefit for colorectal cancer patients is still limited. However, a subset of patients with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR)/microsatellite-instability-high (MSI-H) metastatic colorectal cancer has been observed to have a prolonged benefit to immune checkpoint inhibitors. As a result, pembrolizumab and nivolumab +/− ipilimumab recently obtained the Food and Drug Administration approval. This review aims to highlight the body of knowledge on immunotherapy in the colorectal cancer setting, discussing the potential mechanisms of resistance and future strategies to extend its use.
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9
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Rasmussen M, Lim K, Rambech E, Andersen MH, Svane IM, Andersen O, Jensen LH, Nilbert M, Therkildsen C. Lynch syndrome-associated epithelial ovarian cancer and its immunological profile. Gynecol Oncol 2021; 162:686-693. [PMID: 34275654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lynch syndrome is a multi-tumor syndrome characterized by mismatch repair deficiency (MMR-d), microsatellite instability (MSI), and increased tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) making these tumors candidates for treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, response may depend on tumor-induced immune evasion mechanisms, e.g. loss of Beta-2-Microglobulin (B2M) or upregulation of programmed death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1). We investigated the immune response and B2M and PD-L1 expression in Lynch syndrome-associated ovarian cancers. METHODS We successfully analyzed 30 Lynch syndrome-associated epithelial ovarian cancers collected through the Danish Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) register. MMR-d, MSI, immune response (CD3, CD8, and CD68), and immune evasion mechanisms (B2M and PD-L1) were investigated. Statistical associations between these markers were evaluated in addition to survival in relation to B2M/PD-L1. RESULTS Of the 29 evaluable tumors, 27 were MMR-d (93.1%). Likewise of 26 evaluable tumors, 14 were MSI (53.8%). MMR-d/MMR-proficiency associated with MSI/MSS in 60.0%. Half of the ovarian tumors presented with high levels of TILs. Loss of B2M expression was observed in 46.7% of the tumors, while expression of PD-L1 was seen in 28.0% of the cases. There was no association between B2M/PD-L1 and MSI/TILs/survival. Loss of B2M was often seen in tumors with low TILs (p = 0.056 or p = 0.059 for CD3 and CD8 positive cells, respectively). CONCLUSION MMR-d, MSI, and TILs are also seen in Lynch syndrome-associated ovarian cancers making these potential candidates for checkpoint-based immunotherapy. The clinical impact from immune evasion through loss of B2M needs to be investigated further in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rasmussen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Kevin Lim
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Rambech
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Mads Hald Andersen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ove Andersen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Henrik Jensen
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Mef Nilbert
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Sweden; Danish Cancer Society Research Center, The Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Therkildsen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark; The Danish HNPCC Register, Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Patients with Lynch syndrome have a high probability of developing colorectal and other carcinomas. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of the immunologic aspects of Lynch syndrome pathogenesis and provides an overview of potential immune interventions for patients with Lynch syndrome polyps and Lynch syndrome-associated carcinomas. RECENT FINDINGS Immunogenic properties of the majority of Lynch syndrome polyps and associated cancers include microsatellite instability leading to a high mutational burden and the development of novel frameshift peptides, i.e., neoantigens. In addition, patients with Lynch syndrome develop T cell responses in the periphery and in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to tumor-associated antigens, and a proinflammatory cytokine TME has also been identified. However, Lynch syndrome lesions also possess immunosuppressive entities such as alterations in MHC class I antigen presentation, TGFβ receptor mutations, regulatory T cells, and upregulation of PD-L1 on tumor-associated lymphocytes. The rich immune microenvironment of Lynch syndrome polyps and associated carcinomas provides an opportunity to employ the spectrum of immune-mediating agents now available to induce and enhance host immune responses and/or to also reduce immunosuppressive entities. These agents can be employed in the so-called prevention trials for the treatment of patients with Lynch syndrome polyps and for trials in patients with Lynch syndrome-associated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Pastor
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NIH Hematology Oncology Fellowship Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey Schlom
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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11
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Beta2-microglobulin(B2M) in cancer immunotherapies: Biological function, resistance and remedy. Cancer Lett 2021; 517:96-104. [PMID: 34129878 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapies have made much headway during the past decades. Techniques including the immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) and adoptive cell therapy (ACT) have harvested impressive efficacy and provided far-reaching tools for treating cancer patients. However, due to inadequate priming of the immune system, a certain subgroup of patients remains resistant to cancer immunotherapies during or after the treatment. β2-microglobulin (B2M) is an important subunit of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I which exerts substantive biological functions in tumorigenesis and immune control. Accumulating evidence has shown that alterations of B2M gene and B2M proteins contribute to poor reaction to cancer immunotherapies by dampening antigen presentation. Here, we discuss the basic biological functions of B2M, its distribution in a spectrum of cancers, and current understanding of its role in ICI, cancer vaccines and chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapies. Furthermore, we summarize some promising therapeutic strategies to improve the efficacy inhibited by B2M defects.
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12
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Colonic Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Patient With Lynch Syndrome: Case Report and Highlights on the Role of Biomarker-Led Management. Clin Colorectal Cancer 2021; 20:e226-e232. [PMID: 34272151 DOI: 10.1016/j.clcc.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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13
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Yu X, Zhu L, Liu J, Xie M, Chen J, Li J. Emerging Role of Immunotherapy for Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:11645-11658. [PMID: 33223838 PMCID: PMC7671511 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s271955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignant tumor in the world and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with the liver as the most common site of distant metastasis. The prognosis of CRC with liver metastasis is poor, and most patients cannot undergo surgery. In addition, conventional antitumor approaches such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and surgery result in unsatisfactory outcomes. In recent years, immunotherapy has shown good prospects in the treatment of assorted tumors by enhancing the host's antitumor immune function, and it may become a new effective treatment for liver metastasis of CRC. However, challenges remain in applying immunotherapy to CRC with liver metastasis. This review examines how the microenvironment and immunosuppressive landscape of the liver favor tumor progression. It also highlights the latest research advances in immunotherapy for colorectal liver metastasis and identifies immunotherapy as a treatment regimen with a promising future in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhe Yu
- Gastrointestinal Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingling Zhu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiewei Liu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Xie
- Gastrointestinal Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianguo Li
- Gastrointestinal Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China
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Angell HK, Bruni D, Barrett JC, Herbst R, Galon J. The Immunoscore: Colon Cancer and Beyond. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 26:332-339. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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