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Li X, Huntoon K, Wang Y, Lee D, Dong S, Antony A, Walkey C, Kim BYS, Jiang W. Radiation Synergizes with IL2/IL15 Stimulation to Enhance Innate Immune Activation and Antitumor Immunity. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:330-342. [PMID: 37956421 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Ionizing radiation is known to possess immune modulatory properties. However, how radiotherapy (RT) may complement with different types of immunotherapies to boost antitumor responses is unclear. In mice implanted with EO771 syngeneic tumors, NL-201 a stable, highly potent CD25-independent agonist to IL2 and IL15 receptors with enhanced affinity for IL2Rβγ was given with or without RT. Flow analysis and Western blot analysis was performed to determine the mechanisms involved. STING (-/-) and CD11c+ knockout mice were implanted with EO771 tumors to confirm the essential signaling and cell types required to mediate the effects seen. Combination of RT and NL-201 to enhance systemic immunotherapy with an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor was utilized to determine tumor growth inhibition and survival, along characterization of tumor microenvironment as compared with all other treatment groups. Here, we showed that RT, synergizing with NL-201 produced enhanced antitumor immune responses in murine breast cancer models. When given together, RT and NL-201 enhanced activation of the cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of IFN genes (cGAS-STING) pathway, resulting in increased type I IFN production in dendritic cells (DC), and consequently greater tumor infiltration and more efficient priming of antigen-specific T cells. The immune stimulatory mechanisms triggered by NL-201 and RT resulted in superior tumor growth inhibition and survival benefit in both localized and metastatic cancers. Our results support further preclinical and clinical investigation of this novel synergism regimen in locally advanced and metastatic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Li
- Cancer Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Kristin Huntoon
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - DaeYong Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Shiyan Dong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Abin Antony
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Carl Walkey
- Neoleukin Therapeutics, Inc., Seattle, Washington
| | - Betty Y S Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Williams L, Li L, Yazaki PJ, Wong P, Hong T, Poku EK, Hui S, Ghimire H, Shively JE, Kujawski M. Comparison of IL-2-antibody to IL-2-Fc with or without stereotactic radiation therapy in CEA immunocompetent mice with CEA positive tumors. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6909. [PMID: 38317590 PMCID: PMC10905250 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6909] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potent immune effects of interleukin-2 (IL-2) for cancer therapy can be increased by genetic fusion of IL-2 to the Fc domain of an antibody (IL-2-Fc) or tumor targeted by genetic fusion to a whole antibody known as an immunocytokine (ICK). METHODS An anti-CEA ICK (M5A-IL-2) was compared to an IL-2-Fc fusion protein using tumor therapy and PET imaging in CEA transgenic immunocompetent mice bearing CEA positive colon or breast tumors. Combination with stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) was performed with either ICK or IL-2-Fc. RESULTS ICK and IL-2-Fc had comparable antitumor effects in both tumor models, although ICK had higher tumor uptake and slower blood clearance than an IL-2-Fc. Analysis of IFNγ+ /CD8+ and FoxP3+ /CD4+ T cells revealed higher levels of IFNγ-producing CD8+ T cells in ICK treated mice versus more efficient Treg elimination in IL-2-Fc treated mice. No significant or lasting toxicity was detected for either agent. Combination therapies with SRT revealed comparable efficacy and induction of immune memory for both ICK and IL-2-Fc when mice were rechallenged post-therapy. CONCLUSIONS IL-2-Fc had comparable antitumor efficacy to CEA-targeted M5A-IL-2 ICK, while both fusion proteins induced immune memory when combined with SRT. Differences in the therapeutic mechanisms of both agents were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Williams
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Paul J. Yazaki
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Patty Wong
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Teresa Hong
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Erasmus K. Poku
- RadiopharmacyCity of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
- Beckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Susanta Hui
- Department of Radiation OncologyCity of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
- City of Hope Medical CenterDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Hemendra Ghimire
- Department of Radiation OncologyCity of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
- City of Hope Medical CenterDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - John E. Shively
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
| | - Maciej Kujawski
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research InstituteBeckman Research Institute of City of HopeDuarteCaliforniaUSA
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Williams L, Li L, Yazaki PJ, Wong P, Miller A, Hong T, Poku EK, Bhattacharya S, Shively JE, Kujawski M. Generation of IL-2-Fc-antibody conjugates by click chemistry. Biotechnol J 2023; 18:e2300115. [PMID: 37300381 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunocytokines (ICKs) are antibody directed cytokines produced by genetic fusion of an antibody to a cytokine. METHODS We now show that antibodies conjugated by click chemistry to interleukin-2 (IL-2)-Fc form fully active conjugates, and in one example, equivalent activity to a genetically produced ICK. RESULTS An IL-2-Fc fusion protein was optimized for click chemistry at hinge cysteines using protein stabilizing IL-2 mutations at Lys35 and Cys125 and Fc hinge mutations at Cys142 and Cys148. The IL-2-Fc fusion protein with K35E and C125S mutations with 3 intact hinge cysteines, designated as IL-2-Fc Par, was selected based on its minimal tendency to aggregate. IL-2-Fc-antibody clicked conjugates retained high IL-2 activity and bound target antigens comparable to parent antibodies. An IL-2-Fc-anti-CEA click conjugate showed comparable anti-tumor activity to an anti-CEA-IL-2 ICK in immunocompetent CEA transgenic mice bearing CEA positive orthotopic breast tumors. Significant increases in IFNγ+ /CD8+ and decreases in FoxP3+ /CD4+ T-cells were found for the clicked conjugate and ICK therapies, suggesting a common mechanism of tumor reduction. CONCLUSION The production of antibody targeted IL-2 therapy via a click chemistry approach is feasible with comparable activity to genetically produced ICKs with the added advantage of multiplexing with other monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Williams
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Paul J Yazaki
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Patty Wong
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Aaron Miller
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Teresa Hong
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Erasmus K Poku
- Radiopharmacy, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Supriyo Bhattacharya
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - John E Shively
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Maciej Kujawski
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Diabetes, Metabolism, and Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
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Mohajershojai T, Spangler D, Chopra S, Frejd FY, Yazaki PJ, Nestor M. Enhanced Therapeutic Effects of 177Lu-DOTA-M5A in Combination with Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibitor Onalespib in Colorectal Cancer Xenografts. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4239. [PMID: 37686514 PMCID: PMC10486833 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174239] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) has emerged as an attractive target for theranostic applications in colorectal cancers (CRCs). In the present study, the humanized anti-CEA antibody hT84.66-M5A (M5A) was labeled with 177Lu for potential CRC therapy. Moreover, the novel combination of 177Lu-DOTA-M5A with the heat shock protein 90 inhibitor onalespib, suggested to mediate radiosensitizing properties, was assessed in vivo for the first time. M5A antibody uptake and therapeutic effects, alone or in combination with onalespib, were assessed in human CRC xenografts and visualized using SPECT/CT imaging. Although both 177Lu-DOTA-M5A and onalespib monotherapies effectively reduced tumor growth rates, the combination therapy demonstrated the most substantial impact, achieving a fourfold reduction in tumor growth compared to the control group. Median survival increased by 33% compared to 177Lu-DOTA-M5A alone, and tripled compared to control and onalespib groups. Importantly, combination therapy yielded comparable or superior effects to the double dose of 177Lu-DOTA-M5A monotherapy. 177Lu-DOTA-M5A increased apoptotic cell levels, indicating its potential to induce tumor cell death. These findings show promise for 177Lu-DOTA-M5A as a CRC therapeutic agent, and its combination with onalespib could significantly enhance treatment efficacy. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these findings fully and explore the treatment's potential for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabassom Mohajershojai
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (T.M.); (S.C.); (F.Y.F.)
| | - Douglas Spangler
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 22 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Saloni Chopra
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (T.M.); (S.C.); (F.Y.F.)
| | - Fredrik Y. Frejd
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (T.M.); (S.C.); (F.Y.F.)
| | - Paul J. Yazaki
- Department of Immunology & Theranostics, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA;
| | - Marika Nestor
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden; (T.M.); (S.C.); (F.Y.F.)
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Rybchenko VS, Aliev TK, Panina AA, Kirpichnikov MP, Dolgikh DA. Targeted Cytokine Delivery for Cancer Treatment: Engineering and Biological Effects. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020336. [PMID: 36839658 PMCID: PMC9960319 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-tumor properties of several cytokines have already been investigated in multiple experiments and clinical trials. However, those studies evidenced substantial toxicities, even at low cytokine doses, and the lack of tumor specificity. These factors significantly limit clinical applications. Due to their high specificity and affinity, tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies or their antigen-binding fragments are capable of delivering fused cytokines to tumors and, therefore, of decreasing the number and severity of side effects, as well as of enhancing the therapeutic index. The present review surveys the actual antibody-cytokine fusion protein (immunocytokine) formats, their targets, mechanisms of action, and anti-tumor and other biological effects. Special attention is paid to the formats designed to prevent the off-target cytokine-receptor interactions, potentially inducing side effects. Here, we describe preclinical and clinical data and the efficacy of the antibody-mediated cytokine delivery approach, either as a single therapy or in combination with other agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav S Rybchenko
- Bioengineering Department, Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Teimur K Aliev
- Bioengineering Department, Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna A Panina
- Bioengineering Department, Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail P Kirpichnikov
- Bioengineering Department, Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry A Dolgikh
- Bioengineering Department, Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
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Minnix M, Kujawski M, Poku E, Yazaki PJ, Wong JY, Shively JE. Improved Tumor Responses with Sequential Targeted α-Particles Followed by Interleukin 2 Immunocytokine Therapies in Treatment of CEA-Positive Breast and Colon Tumors in CEA Transgenic Mice. J Nucl Med 2022; 63:1859-1864. [PMID: 35772959 PMCID: PMC9730924 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.264126] [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: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted α-therapy (TAT) delivers high-linear-transfer-energy α-particles to tumors with the potential to generate tumor immune responses that may be augmented by antigen-targeted immunotherapy. Methods: This concept was evaluated in immunocompetent carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) transgenic mice bearing CEA-positive mammary or colon tumors. Tumors were targeted with humanized anti-CEA antibody M5A labeled with 225Ac for its 10-d half-life and emission of 4 α-particles, as well as being targeted with the immunocytokine M5A-interleukin 2. Results: A dose response (3.7, 7.4, and 11.1 kBq) to TAT only, for orthotopic CEA-positive mammary tumors, was observed, with a tumor growth delay of 30 d and an increase in median survival from 20 to 36 d at the highest dose. Immunocytokine (4 times daily) monotherapy gave a tumor growth delay of 20 d that was not improved by addition of 7.4 kBq of TAT 5 d after the start of immunocytokine. However, TAT (7.4 kBq) followed by immunocytokine 10 d later led to a tumor growth delay of 38 d, with an increase in median survival to 45 d. Similar results were seen for TAT followed by immunocytokine at 5 versus 10 d. When a similar study was performed with subcutaneously implanted CEA-positive MC38 colon tumors, TAT (7.4 kBq) monotherapy gave an increase in median survival from 29 to 42 d. The addition of immunocytokine 10 d after 7.4 kBq of TAT increased median survival to 57 d. Immunophenotyping showed increased tumor-infiltrating interferon-γ-positive, CD8-positive T cells and an increased ratio of these cells to Foxp3-positive, CD4-positive regulatory T cells with sequential therapy. Immunohistochemistry confirmed there was an increase in tumor-infiltrating CD8-positive T cells in the sequential therapy group, strongly suggesting that immunocytokine augmented TAT can lead to an immune response that improves tumor therapy. Conclusion: Low-dose (7.4 kBq) TAT followed by a 4-dose immunocytokine regimen 5 or 10 d later gave superior tumor reductions and survival curves compared with either monotherapy in breast and colon cancer tumor models. Reversing the order of therapy to immunocytokine followed by TAT 5 d later was equivalent to either monotherapy in the breast cancer model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Minnix
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Research, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California
| | - Maciej Kujawski
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Research, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California
| | - Erasmus Poku
- Radiopharmacy, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California; and
| | - Paul J. Yazaki
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Research, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California
| | - Jeffrey Y. Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - John E. Shively
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Riggs Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Research, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, California
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Mohajershojai T, Jha P, Boström A, Frejd FY, Yazaki PJ, Nestor M. In Vitro Characterization of 177Lu-DOTA-M5A Anti-Carcinoembryonic Antigen Humanized Antibody and HSP90 Inhibition for Potentiated Radioimmunotherapy of Colorectal Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:849338. [PMID: 35433442 PMCID: PMC9010075 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.849338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is an antigen that is highly expressed in colorectal cancers and widely used as a tumor marker. 131I and 90Y-radiolabeled anti-CEA monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have previously been assessed for radioimmunotherapy in early clinical trials with promising results. Moreover, the heat shock protein 90 inhibitor onalespib has previously demonstrated radiotherapy potentiation effects in vivo. In the present study, a 177Lu-radiolabeled anti-CEA hT84.66-M5A mAb (M5A) conjugate was developed and the potential therapeutic effects of 177Lu-DOTA-M5A and/or onalespib were investigated. The 177Lu radiolabeling of M5A was first optimized and characterized. Binding specificity and affinity of the conjugate were then evaluated in a panel of gastrointestinal cancer cell lines. The effects on spheroid growth and cell viability, as well as molecular effects from treatments, were then assessed in several three-dimensional (3D) multicellular colorectal cancer spheroid models. Stable and reproducible radiolabeling was obtained, with labeling yields above 92%, and stability was retained at least 48 h post-radiolabeling. Antigen-specific binding of the radiolabeled conjugate was demonstrated on all CEA-positive cell lines. Dose-dependent therapeutic effects of both 177Lu-DOTA-M5A and onalespib were demonstrated in the spheroid models. Moreover, effects were potentiated in several dose combinations, where spheroid sizes and viabilities were significantly decreased compared to the corresponding monotherapies. For example, the combination treatment with 350 nM onalespib and 20 kBq 177Lu-DOTA-M5A resulted in 2.5 and 2.3 times smaller spheroids at the experimental endpoint than the corresponding monotreatments in the SNU1544 spheroid model. Synergistic effects were demonstrated in several of the more effective combinations. Molecular assessments validated the therapy results and displayed increased apoptosis in several combination treatments. In conclusion, the combination therapy of anti-CEA 177Lu-DOTA-M5A and onalespib showed enhanced therapeutic effects over the individual monotherapies for the potential treatment of colorectal cancer. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are warranted to confirm the current study findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Preeti Jha
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Fredrik Y Frejd
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Paul J Yazaki
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Marika Nestor
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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8
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Ren Z, Zhang A, Sun Z, Liang Y, Ye J, Qiao J, Li B, Fu YX. Selective delivery of low-affinity IL-2 to PD-1+ T cells rejuvenates antitumor immunity with reduced toxicity. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:153604. [PMID: 35104810 PMCID: PMC8803347 DOI: 10.1172/jci153604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PD-1 signaling on T cells is the major pathway that limits T cell immunity, but the efficacy of anti–PD-1 therapy has been limited to a small proportion of patients with advanced cancers. We fortuitously observed that anti–PD-1 therapy depends on IL-2 signaling, which raises the possibility that a lack of IL-2 limits anti–PD-1–induced effector T cell expansion. To selectively deliver IL-2 to PD-1+CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), we engineered a low-affinity IL-2 paired with anti–PD-1 (PD-1–laIL-2), which reduced affinity to peripheral Treg cells but enhanced avidity to PD-1+CD8+ TILs. PD-1–laIL-2 exerted better tumor control and lower toxicity than single or mixed treatments. Mechanistically, PD-1–laIL-2 could effectively expand dysfunctional and tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, we discovered that presumably dysfunctional PD-1+TIM3+ TILs are the dominant tumor-specific T cells responding to PD-1–laIL-2. Collectively, these results highlight that PD-1–laIL-2 can target and reactivate tumor-specific TILs for tumor regression as a unique strategy with stronger efficacy and lower toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhichen Sun
- Department of Pathology.,Department of Pharmacology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, and
| | | | - Jianfeng Ye
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - Bo Li
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Yang-Xin Fu
- Department of Pathology.,Department of Basic Medical Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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9
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Engineered antibody fusion proteins for targeted disease therapy. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:1064-1081. [PMID: 34706833 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Since the FDA approval of the first therapeutic antibody 35 years ago, antibody-based products have gained prominence in the pharmaceutical market. Building on the early successes of monoclonal antibodies, more recent efforts have capitalized on the exquisite specificity and/or favorable pharmacokinetic properties of antibodies by developing fusion proteins that enable targeted delivery of therapeutic payloads which are otherwise ineffective when administered systemically. This review focuses on recent engineering and translational advances for therapeutics that genetically fuse antibodies to disease-relevant payloads, including cytokines, toxins, enzymes, neuroprotective agents, and soluble factor traps. With numerous antibody fusion proteins in the clinic and other innovative molecules poised to follow suit, these potent, multifunctional drug candidates promise to be a major player in the therapeutic development landscape for years to come.
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10
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Marcus D, Lieverse RIY, Klein C, Abdollahi A, Lambin P, Dubois LJ, Yaromina A. Charged Particle and Conventional Radiotherapy: Current Implications as Partner for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1468. [PMID: 33806808 PMCID: PMC8005048 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to interfere with inflammatory signals and to enhance tumor immunogenicity via, e.g., immunogenic cell death, thereby potentially augmenting the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy. Conventional RT consists predominantly of high energy photon beams. Hypofractionated RT regimens administered, e.g., by stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), are increasingly investigated in combination with cancer immunotherapy within clinical trials. Despite intensive preclinical studies, the optimal dose per fraction and dose schemes for elaboration of RT induced immunogenic potential remain inconclusive. Compared to the scenario of combined immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) and RT, multimodal therapies utilizing other immunotherapy principles such as adoptive transfer of immune cells, vaccination strategies, targeted immune-cytokines and agonists are underrepresented in both preclinical and clinical settings. Despite the clinical success of ICI and RT combination, e.g., prolonging overall survival in locally advanced lung cancer, curative outcomes are still not achieved for most cancer entities studied. Charged particle RT (PRT) has gained interest as it may enhance tumor immunogenicity compared to conventional RT due to its unique biological and physical properties. However, whether PRT in combination with immune therapy will elicit superior antitumor effects both locally and systemically needs to be further investigated. In this review, the immunological effects of RT in the tumor microenvironment are summarized to understand their implications for immunotherapy combinations. Attention will be given to the various immunotherapeutic interventions that have been co-administered with RT so far. Furthermore, the theoretical basis and first evidences supporting a favorable immunogenicity profile of PRT will be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiënne Marcus
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (D.M.); (R.I.Y.L.); (P.L.); (L.J.D.)
| | - Relinde I. Y. Lieverse
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (D.M.); (R.I.Y.L.); (P.L.); (L.J.D.)
| | - Carmen Klein
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (C.K.); (A.A.)
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Im Neuenheimer Feld 450, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg University and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 222, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Amir Abdollahi
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Core-Center Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (C.K.); (A.A.)
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine (MFHD) and Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Im Neuenheimer Feld 450, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Radiation Oncology (NCRO), Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), Heidelberg University and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 222, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philippe Lambin
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (D.M.); (R.I.Y.L.); (P.L.); (L.J.D.)
| | - Ludwig J. Dubois
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (D.M.); (R.I.Y.L.); (P.L.); (L.J.D.)
| | - Ala Yaromina
- The M-Lab, Department of Precision Medicine, GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (D.M.); (R.I.Y.L.); (P.L.); (L.J.D.)
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11
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Cha SE, Kujawski M, J Yazaki P, Brown C, Shively JE. Tumor regression and immunity in combination therapy with anti-CEA chimeric antigen receptor T cells and anti-CEA-IL2 immunocytokine. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1899469. [PMID: 33796409 PMCID: PMC7993151 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1899469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted immunotherapy of solid cancers with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and immunocytokines are attractive options in that they both rely on the specificity of tumor-targeted antibodies. Since carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) expression in both colon and breast cancers is correlated with poor prognosis, it was chosen as a model tumor target in immunocompetent CEA transgenic (CEATg) mice. A second-generation anti-CEA CAR derived from CEA-specific antibody T84.66 was used to treat murine MC38 colon or E0771 breast carcinomas transfected with CEA. Anti-CEA CAR vs. mock transduced T cells exhibited a CEA-specific cytotoxic and IFNγ dose response to both CEA transfected cell lines vs. their CEA-negative controls. Anti-CEA CAR vs. mock transduced T cells delayed the median survival of CEA transfected s.c. MC38 or orthotopic E0771 tumor-bearing CEATg mice by 2 days. With the addition of one-day prior cyclophosphamide (CY) lymphodepletion, anti-CEA CAR T cell treatment delayed the median survival of MC38/CEA and E0771/CEA tumor-bearing CEATg mice by ten and 3 days, respectively. Since CAR T cells require IL2 for survival and expansion, anti-CEA-IL2 immunocytokine (ICK) treatment was performed post CAR T cell therapy. Single ICK treatment 1 day after CY plus anti-CEA CAR T cell therapy in the MC38/CEA model, and two ICK treatments every 3 days after CY plus anti-CEA CAR T cell therapy in the E0771/CEA model were ineffective, while four ICK treatments every 3 days after CY plus anti-CEA CAR T cell therapy completely eradicated MC38/CEA tumor growth and induced tumor immunity when the mice were re-challenged with tumor. These studies show the therapeutic potential of anti-CEA CAR T cells combined with ICK to treat CEA-positive tumors. Abbreviations: CAR: Chimeric antigen receptor, CEA: Carcinoembryonic antigen, CEACAM5, ICK: Immunocytokine, CY: Cyclophosphamide, CEATg mouse: transgenic CEA mouse, TDLN: Tumor-draining lymph node
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung E Cha
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, City of Hope, Duarte, USA.,Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - Maciej Kujawski
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - Paul J Yazaki
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - Christine Brown
- Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, City of Hope, Duarte, USA.,Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope, Duarte, USA.,T Cell Therapeutics Research Laboratory, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - John E Shively
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, City of Hope, Duarte, USA.,Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, City of Hope, Duarte, USA
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12
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Runbeck E, Crescioli S, Karagiannis SN, Papa S. Utilizing Immunocytokines for Cancer Therapy. Antibodies (Basel) 2021; 10:antib10010010. [PMID: 33803078 PMCID: PMC8006145 DOI: 10.3390/antib10010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokine therapy for cancer has indicated efficacy in certain diseases but is generally accompanied by severe toxicity. The field of antibody-cytokine fusion proteins (immunocytokines) arose to target these effector molecules to the tumor environment in order to expand the therapeutic window of cytokine therapy. Pre-clinical evidence has shown the increased efficacy and decreased toxicity of various immunocytokines when compared to their cognate unconjugated cytokine. These anti-tumor properties are markedly enhanced when combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and checkpoint inhibitor antibodies. Clinical trials that have continued to explore the potential of these biologics for cancer therapy have been conducted. This review covers the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence for the application of immunocytokines in immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Runbeck
- ImmunoEngineering Group, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Studies, King’s College London, London SE19RT, UK;
| | - Silvia Crescioli
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK; (S.C.); (S.N.K.)
| | - Sophia N. Karagiannis
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK; (S.C.); (S.N.K.)
| | - Sophie Papa
- ImmunoEngineering Group, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Studies, King’s College London, London SE19RT, UK;
- Correspondence:
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