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Lo Cigno I, Calati F, Girone C, Catozzo M, Gariglio M. High-risk HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7 and their interplay with the innate immune response: Uncovering mechanisms of immune evasion and therapeutic prospects. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29685. [PMID: 38783790 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29685] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) tumor viruses causally associated with 5% of human cancers, comprising both anogenital and upper aerodigestive tract carcinomas. Despite the availability of prophylactic vaccines, HPVs continue to pose a significant global health challenge, primarily due to inadequate vaccine access and coverage. These viruses can establish persistent infections by evading both the intrinsic defenses of infected tissues and the extrinsic defenses provided by professional innate immune cells. Crucial for their evasion strategies is their unique intraepithelial life cycle, which effectively shields them from host detection. Thus, strategies aimed at reactivating the innate immune response within infected or transformed epithelial cells, particularly through the production of type I interferons (IFNs) and lymphocyte-recruiting chemokines, are considered viable solutions to counteract the adverse effects of persistent infections by these oncogenic viruses. This review focuses on the complex interplay between the high-risk HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7 and the innate immune response in epithelial cells and HPV-associated cancers. In particular, it details the molecular mechanisms by which E6 and E7 modulate the innate immune response, highlighting significant progress in our comprehension of these processes. It also examines forward-looking strategies that exploit the innate immune system to ameliorate existing anticancer therapies, thereby providing crucial insights into future therapeutic developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Lo Cigno
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Calati
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Carlo Girone
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Marta Catozzo
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
| | - Marisa Gariglio
- Virology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Eastern Piedmont University, Novara, Italy
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2
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von Hofsten S, Fenton KA, Pedersen HL. Human and Murine Toll-like Receptor-Driven Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5351. [PMID: 38791389 PMCID: PMC11120885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105351] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is linked to the differential roles of toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9. TLR7 overexpression or gene duplication, as seen with the Y-linked autoimmune accelerator (Yaa) locus or TLR7 agonist imiquimod, correlates with increased SLE severity, and specific TLR7 polymorphisms and gain-of-function variants are associated with enhanced SLE susceptibility and severity. In addition, the X-chromosome location of TLR7 and its escape from X-chromosome inactivation provide a genetic basis for female predominance in SLE. The absence of TLR8 and TLR9 have been shown to exacerbate the detrimental effects of TLR7, leading to upregulated TLR7 activity and increased disease severity in mouse models of SLE. The regulatory functions of TLR8 and TLR9 have been proposed to involve competition for the endosomal trafficking chaperone UNC93B1. However, recent evidence implies more direct, regulatory functions of TLR9 on TLR7 activity. The association between age-associated B cells (ABCs) and autoantibody production positions these cells as potential targets for treatment in SLE, but the lack of specific markers necessitates further research for precise therapeutic intervention. Therapeutically, targeting TLRs is a promising strategy for SLE treatment, with drugs like hydroxychloroquine already in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah von Hofsten
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Kristin Andreassen Fenton
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Hege Lynum Pedersen
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
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3
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Wang K, Huang H, Zhan Q, Ding H, Li Y. Toll-like receptors in health and disease. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e549. [PMID: 38685971 PMCID: PMC11057423 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are inflammatory triggers and belong to a family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that are central to the regulation of host protective adaptive immune responses. Activation of TLRs in innate immune myeloid cells directs lymphocytes to produce the most appropriate effector responses to eliminate infection and maintain homeostasis of the body's internal environment. Inappropriate TLR stimulation can lead to the development of general autoimmune diseases as well as chronic and acute inflammation, and even cancer. Therefore, TLRs are expected to be targets for therapeutic treatment of inflammation-related diseases, autoimmune diseases, microbial infections, and human cancers. This review summarizes the recent discoveries in the molecular and structural biology of TLRs. The role of different TLR signaling pathways in inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, digestive diseases, and even cancers (oral, gastric, breast, colorectal) is highlighted and summarizes new drugs and related clinical treatments in clinical trials, providing an overview of the potential and prospects of TLRs for the treatment of TLR-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Hanyao Huang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Qi Zhan
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Haoran Ding
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
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Elnaggar MG, He Y, Yeo Y. Recent trends in the delivery of RNA drugs: Beyond the liver, more than vaccine. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 197:114203. [PMID: 38302049 PMCID: PMC10947810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114203] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
RNAs are known for versatile functions and therapeutic utility. They have gained significant interest since the approval of several RNA drugs, including COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and therapeutic agents targeting liver diseases. There are increasing expectations for a new class of RNA drugs for broader applications. Successful development of RNA drugs for new applications hinges on understanding their diverse functions and structures. In this review, we explore the last five years of literature to understand current approaches to formulate a spectrum of RNA drugs, focusing on new efforts to expand their applications beyond vaccines and liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa G Elnaggar
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
| | - Yanying He
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Yoon Yeo
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research, 201 South University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, 206 S Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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5
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Ma L, Yin Y, Yu Z, Xu N, Ma L, Qiao W, Zhen X, Yang F, Zhang N, Yu Y. Toll-like receptor 6 inhibits colorectal cancer progression by suppressing NF-κB signaling. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26984. [PMID: 38509947 PMCID: PMC10951511 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26984] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of inflammation-associated cancers, except their role in regulating innate immunity. Specifically, a berrant expression of TLR6 has been observed in colorectal cancers (CRC). However, the effect of abnormal TLR6 expression on CRC remians unclear. Therefore, the present study evaluated TLR6 expression in CRC, its effect on CRC proliferation, and its underlying mechanism. Methods The expression of TLR6 in CRC was assessed using data from TCGA, GTEx, and HPA datasets and immunohistochemical assays of tumor tissues from patients with CRC. In human CRC cell lines, TLR6 signaling was activated using the TLR6 agonist Pam2CSK4 and was blocked using antiTLR6-IgG; subsequently, cell growth, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis were compared in CRC cells. The levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and the apoptotic protein Bax were identified using western blotting. In addition, the effect of TLR6 knockdown by shRNAs in CRC cells was observed both in vitro and in vivo. Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) level was evaluated using immunofluorescence and western bolt. Results TLR6 expression was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues. The activation of TLR6 by Pam2CSK4 (100 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL) inhibited the proliferation of CRC cells. Compared with blocking TLR6 signaling using antiTLR6-IgG, activating TLR6 signaling significantly inhibited CRC cell growth, migration, and invasion as well as decreased the proportion of cells in the S and G2/M phases and promoted apoptosis. Furthermore, the knockdown of TLR6 by shRNA promoted the biological activity of CRC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the activation of TLR6 signaling by Pam2CSK4 significantly downregulated NF-κB and Bcl-2 levels but upregulated Bax levels. Conclusion The findings of this study demonstrate that TLR6 may play a inhibitive role in CRC tumorigenesis by suppressing the activity of NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Ma
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
- Department of Diagnostics, The Second School of Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Yancun Yin
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Zhenhai Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, 717 Jinbu Street, Yantai, Shandong, 264100, China
| | - Lianhuan Ma
- Department of Diagnostics, The Second School of Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Weiwei Qiao
- Department of Diagnostics, The Second School of Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhen
- Department of Diagnostics, The Second School of Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Diagnostics, The Second School of Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Naili Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Binzhou Medical University, 346 Guanhai Road, Laishan, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
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6
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Cassanello G, Luna de Abia A, Falchi L. Trial watch: bispecific antibodies for the treatment of relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2321648. [PMID: 38445082 PMCID: PMC10913711 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2321648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has shaped the treatment approach to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), with rituximab leading to remarkable improvements in outcomes for both relapsed and treatment-naïve patients. Recently, groundbreaking immunotherapies like chimeric antigen receptor T-cells have entered the treatment arena for relapsed/refractory (R/R) DLBCL and gained regulatory approval in several countries. The concept of harnessing a patient's own T-cells to combat cancer has been further explored through the development of bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), a class of engineered antibody products designed to simultaneously target two different antigens. These novel drugs have demonstrated impressive single-agent activity and manageable toxicity in patients with heavily pretreated B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of recently completed or ongoing BsAbs trials in patients with R/R DLBCL, including single-agent results, emerging combination data, and novel constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Cassanello
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alejandro Luna de Abia
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
- Hematology Service, Hospital Universitario Ramon y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Falchi
- Department of Medicine, Lymphoma Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
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7
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Tsuchikama K, Anami Y, Ha SYY, Yamazaki CM. Exploring the next generation of antibody-drug conjugates. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:203-223. [PMID: 38191923 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00850-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a promising cancer treatment modality that enables the selective delivery of highly cytotoxic payloads to tumours. However, realizing the full potential of this platform necessitates innovative molecular designs to tackle several clinical challenges such as drug resistance, tumour heterogeneity and treatment-related adverse effects. Several emerging ADC formats exist, including bispecific ADCs, conditionally active ADCs (also known as probody-drug conjugates), immune-stimulating ADCs, protein-degrader ADCs and dual-drug ADCs, and each offers unique capabilities for tackling these various challenges. For example, probody-drug conjugates can enhance tumour specificity, whereas bispecific ADCs and dual-drug ADCs can address resistance and heterogeneity with enhanced activity. The incorporation of immune-stimulating and protein-degrader ADCs, which have distinct mechanisms of action, into existing treatment strategies could enable multimodal cancer treatment. Despite the promising outlook, the importance of patient stratification and biomarker identification cannot be overstated for these emerging ADCs, as these factors are crucial to identify patients who are most likely to derive benefit. As we continue to deepen our understanding of tumour biology and refine ADC design, we will edge closer to developing truly effective and safe ADCs for patients with treatment-refractory cancers. In this Review, we highlight advances in each ADC component (the monoclonal antibody, payload, linker and conjugation chemistry) and provide more-detailed discussions on selected examples of emerging novel ADCs of each format, enabled by engineering of one or more of these components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoji Tsuchikama
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Yasuaki Anami
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Summer Y Y Ha
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chisato M Yamazaki
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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8
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Wold CW, Christopoulos PF, Arias MA, Dzovor DE, Øynebråten I, Corthay A, Inngjerdingen KT. Fungal polysaccharides from Inonotus obliquus are agonists for Toll-like receptors and induce macrophage anti-cancer activity. Commun Biol 2024; 7:222. [PMID: 38396285 PMCID: PMC10891174 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05853-y] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal polysaccharides can exert immunomodulating activity by triggering pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on innate immune cells such as macrophages. Here, we evaluate six polysaccharides isolated from the medicinal fungus Inonotus obliquus for their ability to activate mouse and human macrophages. We identify two water-soluble polysaccharides, AcF1 and AcF3, being able to trigger several critical antitumor functions of macrophages. AcF1 and AcF3 activate macrophages to secrete nitric oxide and the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Combined with interferon-γ, the fungal polysaccharides trigger high production of IL-12p70, a central cytokine for antitumor immunity, and induce macrophage-mediated inhibition of cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. AcF1 and AcF3 are strong agonists of the PRRs Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4, and weak agonists of Dectin-1. In comparison, two prototypical particulate β-glucans, one isolated from I. obliquus and one from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (zymosan), are agonists for Dectin-1 but not TLR2 or TLR4, and are unable to trigger anti-cancer functions of macrophages. We conclude that the water-soluble polysaccharides AcF1 and AcF3 from I. obliquus have a strong potential for cancer immunotherapy by triggering multiple PRRs and by inducing potent anti-cancer activity of macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Winther Wold
- Section for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | | | - Maykel A Arias
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Aragón (CIBA), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Deborah Elikplim Dzovor
- Tumor Immunology Lab, Department of Pathology, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inger Øynebråten
- Tumor Immunology Lab, Department of Pathology, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Alexandre Corthay
- Tumor Immunology Lab, Department of Pathology, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Anfray C, Varela CF, Ummarino A, Maeda A, Sironi M, Gandoy S, Brea J, Loza MI, León S, Calvo A, Correa J, Fernandez-Megia E, Alonso MJ, Allavena P, Crecente-Campo J, Andón FT. Polymeric nanocapsules loaded with poly(I:C) and resiquimod to reprogram tumor-associated macrophages for the treatment of solid tumors. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1334800. [PMID: 38259462 PMCID: PMC10800412 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1334800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a key immunosuppressive role that limits the ability of the immune system to fight cancer. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) ligands, such as poly(I:C) or resiquimod (R848) are able to reprogram TAMs towards M1-like antitumor effector cells. The objective of our work has been to develop and evaluate polymeric nanocapsules (NCs) loaded with poly(I:C)+R848, to improve drug stability and systemic toxicity, and evaluate their targeting and therapeutic activity towards TAMs in the TME of solid tumors. Methods NCs were developed by the solvent displacement and layer-by-layer methodologies and characterized by dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Hyaluronic acid (HA) was chemically functionalized with mannose for the coating of the NCs to target TAMs. NCs loaded with TLR ligands were evaluated in vitro for toxicity and immunostimulatory activity by Alamar Blue, ELISA and flow cytometry, using primary human monocyte-derived macrophages. For in vivo experiments, the CMT167 lung cancer model and the MN/MCA1 fibrosarcoma model metastasizing to lungs were used; tumor-infiltrating leukocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry and multispectral immunophenotyping. Results We have developed polymeric NCs loaded with poly(I:C)+R848. Among a series of 5 lead prototypes, protamine-NCs were selected based on their physicochemical properties (size, charge, stability) and in vitro characterization, showing good biocompatibility on primary macrophages and ability to stimulate their production of T-cell attracting chemokines (CXCL10, CCL5) and to induce M1-like macrophages cytotoxicity towards tumor cells. In mouse tumor models, the intratumoral injection of poly(I:C)+R848-protamine-NCs significantly prevented tumor growth and lung metastasis. In an orthotopic murine lung cancer model, the intravenous administration of poly(I:C)+R848-prot-NCs, coated with an additional layer of HA-mannose to improve TAM-targeting, resulted in good antitumoral efficacy with no apparent systemic toxicity. While no significant alterations were observed in T cell numbers (CD8, CD4 or Treg), TAM-reprogramming in treated mice was confirmed by the relative decrease of interstitial versus alveolar macrophages, having higher CD86 expression but lower CD206 and Arg1 expression in the same cells, in treated mice. Conclusion Mannose-HA-protamine-NCs loaded with poly(I:C)+R848 successfully reprogram TAMs in vivo, and reduce tumor progression and metastasis spread in mouse tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Anfray
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Carmen Fernández Varela
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Aldo Ummarino
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Akihiro Maeda
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Sironi
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Gandoy
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- BioFarma Research Group, CIMUS, Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Jose Brea
- BioFarma Research Group, CIMUS, Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Isabel Loza
- BioFarma Research Group, CIMUS, Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Sergio León
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Department of Pathology and Histology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Department of Pathology and Histology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Correa
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fernandez-Megia
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María José Alonso
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paola Allavena
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - José Crecente-Campo
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Fernando Torres Andón
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Oncology Department, Complexo Hospitalario de A Coruña (CHUAC), A Coruña, Spain
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10
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Li R, Hao Y, Pan W, Wang W, Min Y. Monophosphoryl lipid A-assembled nanovaccines enhance tumor immunotherapy. Acta Biomater 2023; 171:482-494. [PMID: 37708924 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.013] [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: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic cancer nanovaccines can induce strong antitumor immunity and establish long-term immune memory and have shown potential for curing tumors in some clinical trials. However, weak immunogenicity and safety concerns of nanocarriers limit the clinical translation of some therapeutic nanovaccines. Here, we developed minimal-component cancer nanovaccines, monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA)-assembled nanovaccines (MANs), that could facilitate the clinical application of nanovaccines. The MANs were formed by protein antigens extracted from chemotherapy-induced tumor cell cultures and the amphiphilic immune adjuvant MPLA. Compared with free chemotherapy-induced antigens, MANs can activate the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated signalling pathway and promote adaptive immunity against tumor antigens. Mechanistic analysis indicated that MANs induced antigen capture of DCs and promoted the activation of DCs and T cells, thereby optimizing the ratio of CD8+ T/Tregs in tumors and facilitating the transformation of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) from "cold" to "hot". In a CT26 colorectal cancer model, MANs+αPD-1 significantly improved the efficacy of αPD-1 treatment. Our work offers a strategy for designing minimal-component cancer nanovaccines with potential clinical benefits. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: To address the weak immunogenicity of cancer vaccines and the safety concerns of nanocarriers, we prepared MPLA-assembled nanovaccines (MANs) using chemotherapy induced antigens and the immune adjuvant MPLA to promote cancer vaccines to clinical practice. MANs effectively internalized tumor antigens and induced DC maturation, indicating that the initial anti-tumor response had been activated. MANs+αPD-1 induced APCs, CD8+ T cells and memory T cells with positive anti-tumor effects to migrate to tumor tissue, thus leading to the transformation of the tumor immune microenvironment from "cold" to "hot". At the animal level, the combination of MANs and αPD-1 exerted synergistic effects and significantly enhanced tumor immunotherapy. Therefore, the treatment regimen of MANs+αPD-1 has potential clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Yuhao Hao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Wen Pan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China.
| | - Yuanzeng Min
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China; Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Anhui Provincial Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China; CAS Key Lab of Soft Matter Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
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11
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Ontiveros CO, Murray CE, Crossland G, Curiel TJ. Considerations and Approaches for Cancer Immunotherapy in the Aging Host. Cancer Immunol Res 2023; 11:1449-1461. [PMID: 37769157 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0121] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Advances in cancer immunotherapy are improving treatment successes in many distinct cancer types. Nonetheless, most tumors fail to respond. Age is the biggest risk for most cancers, and the median population age is rising worldwide. Advancing age is associated with manifold alterations in immune cell types, abundance, and functions, rather than simple declines in these metrics, the consequences of which remain incompletely defined. Our understanding of the effects of host age on immunotherapy mechanisms, efficacy, and adverse events remains incomplete. A deeper understanding of age effects in all these areas is required. Most cancer immunotherapy preclinical studies examine young subjects and fail to assess age contributions, a remarkable deficit given the known importance of age effects on immune cells and factors mediating cancer immune surveillance and immunotherapy efficacy. Notably, some cancer immunotherapies are more effective in aged versus young hosts, while others fail despite efficacy in the young. Here, we review our current understanding of age effects on immunity and associated nonimmune cells, the tumor microenvironment, cancer immunotherapy, and related adverse effects. We highlight important knowledge gaps and suggest areas for deeper enquiries, including in cancer immune surveillance, treatment response, adverse event outcomes, and their mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos O Ontiveros
- UT Health San Antonio Long School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Clare E Murray
- UT Health San Antonio Long School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Grace Crossland
- Graduate School of Microbiology and Immunology, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
- The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Tyler J Curiel
- UT Health San Antonio Long School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
- Graduate School of Microbiology and Immunology, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
- The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
- Dartmouth Health and Dartmouth Cancer Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
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12
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Chakraborty S, Ye J, Wang H, Sun M, Zhang Y, Sang X, Zhuang Z. Application of toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their agonists in cancer vaccines and immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227833. [PMID: 37936697 PMCID: PMC10626551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) expressed in various immune cell types and perform multiple purposes and duties involved in the induction of innate and adaptive immunity. Their capability to propagate immunity makes them attractive targets for the expansion of numerous immunotherapeutic approaches targeting cancer. These immunotherapeutic strategies include using TLR ligands/agonists as monotherapy or combined therapeutic strategies. Several TLR agonists have demonstrated significant efficacy in advanced clinical trials. In recent years, multiple reports established the applicability of TLR agonists as adjuvants to chemotherapeutic drugs, radiation, and immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines. Cancer vaccines are a relatively novel approach in the field of cancer immunotherapy and are currently under extensive evaluation for treating different cancers. In the present review, we tried to deliver an inclusive discussion of the significant TLR agonists and discussed their application and challenges to their incorporation into cancer immunotherapy approaches, particularly highlighting the usage of TLR agonists as functional adjuvants to cancer vaccines. Finally, we present the translational potential of rWTC-MBTA vaccination [irradiated whole tumor cells (rWTC) pulsed with phagocytic agonists Mannan-BAM, TLR ligands, and anti-CD40 agonisticAntibody], an autologous cancer vaccine leveraging membrane-bound Mannan-BAM, and the immune-inducing prowess of TLR agonists as a probable immunotherapy in multiple cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samik Chakraborty
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- NE1 Inc., New York, NY, United States
| | - Juan Ye
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Herui Wang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Mitchell Sun
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yaping Zhang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Xueyu Sang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Zhengping Zhuang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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13
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Le Naour J, Thierry S, Scuderi SA, Boucard-Jourdin M, Liu P, Bonnin M, Pan Y, Perret C, Zhao L, Mao M, Renoux C, Pérez-Lanzón M, Martin B, Kepp O, Kroemer G, Werlé B. A Chemically Defined TLR3 Agonist with Anticancer Activity. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2227510. [PMID: 37389102 PMCID: PMC10305499 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2227510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonists such as polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) have immunostimulatory effects that can be taken advantage of to induce anticancer immune responses in preclinical models. In addition, poly(I:C) has been introduced into clinical trials to demonstrate its efficacy as an adjuvant and to enhance the immunogenicity of locally injected tumors, thus reverting resistance to PD-L1 blockade in melanoma patients. Here, we report the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, mechanistic and toxicological profile of a novel TLR3 agonist, TL-532, a chemically synthesized double-stranded RNA that is composed by blocks of poly(I:C) and poly(A:U) (polyadenylic - polyuridylic acid). In preclinical models, we show that TL-532 is bioavailable after parenteral injection, has an acceptable toxicological profile, and stimulates the production of multiple chemokines and interleukins that constitute pharmacodynamic markers of its immunostimulatory action. When given at a high dose, TL-532 monotherapy reduced the growth of bladder cancers growing on mice. In addition, in immunodeficient mice lacking formylpeptide receptor-1 (FPR1), TL-532 was able to restore the response of orthotopic subcutaneous fibrosarcoma to immunogenic chemotherapy. Altogether, these findings may encourage further development of TL-532 as an immunotherapeutic anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Le Naour
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Sarah Adriana Scuderi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Peng Liu
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Yuhong Pan
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Liwei Zhao
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | - Misha Mao
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | | | - María Pérez-Lanzón
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Oliver Kepp
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe Labellisée Par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Center, Villejuif, France
- Department of Biology, Institut du Cancer Paris CARPEM, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
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14
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Haroun R, Naasri S, Oweida AJ. Toll-Like Receptors and the Response to Radiotherapy in Solid Tumors: Challenges and Opportunities. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040818. [PMID: 37112730 PMCID: PMC10146579 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040818] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are indispensable for the activation, maintenance and halting of immune responses. TLRs can mediate inflammation by recognizing molecular patterns in microbes (pathogen-associated molecular patterns: PAMPs) and endogenous ligands (danger-associated molecular patterns: DAMPs) released by injured or dead cells. For this reason, TLR ligands have attracted much attention in recent years in many cancer vaccines, alone or in combination with immunotherapy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy (RT). TLRs have been shown to play controversial roles in cancer, depending on various factors that can mediate tumor progression or apoptosis. Several TLR agonists have reached clinical trials and are being evaluated in combination with standard of care therapies, including RT. Despite their prolific and central role in mediating immune responses, the role of TLRs in cancer, particularly in response to radiation, remains poorly understood. Radiation is recognized as either a direct stimulant of TLR pathways, or indirectly through the damage it causes to target cells that subsequently activate TLRs. These effects can mediate pro-tumoral and anti-tumoral effects depending on various factors such as radiation dose and fractionation, as well as host genomic features. In this review, we examine how TLR signaling affects tumor response to RT, and we provide a framework for the design of TLR-based therapies with RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryma Haroun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1N 0Y8, Canada
| | - Sahar Naasri
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1N 0Y8, Canada
| | - Ayman J Oweida
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiobiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1N 0Y8, Canada
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