Interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) is an angiostatic factor that inhibits human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumorigenesis and spontaneous metastases

The duality of CXCR3 in glioblastoma: unveiling autocrine and paracrine mechanisms for novel therapeutic approaches

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor associated with limited therapeutic options and a poor prognosis. CXCR3, a chemokine receptor, serves dual autocrine-paracrine functions in cancer. Despite gaps in our understanding of the functional role of the CXCR3 receptor in GBM, it has been shown to hold promise as a therapeutic target for the treatment of GBM. Existing clinical therapeutics and vaccines targeting CXCR3 ligand expression associated with the CXCR3 axes have also shown anti-tumorigenic effects in GBM. This review summarizes existing evidence on the oncogenic function of CXCR3 and its ligands CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11, in GBM, and examines the controversies concerning the immunomodulatory functions of the CXCR3 receptor, including immune T cell recruitment, polarization, and positioning. The mechanisms underlying monotherpies and combination therapies targeting the CXCR3 pathways are discussed. A better understanding of the CXCR3 axes may lead to the development of strategies for overcoming the limitations of existing immunotherapies for GBM.

Harnessing Natural Killer Cells for Lung Cancer Therapy

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Although natural killer (NK) cells are garnering interest as a potential anticancer therapy because they selectively recognize and eliminate cancer cells, their use in treating solid tumors, including lung cancer, has been limited due to impediments to their efficacy, such as their limited ability to reach tumor tissues, the reduced antitumor activity of tumor-infiltrating NK cells, and the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the cross-talk between the lung cancer TME and NK cells. We highlight the various mechanisms used by the TME to modulate NK-cell phenotypes and limit infiltration, explore the role of the TME in limiting the antitumor activity of NK cells, and discuss the current challenges and obstacles that hinder the success of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Potential opportunities and promising strategies to address these challenges have been implemented or are being developed to optimize NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Through critical evaluation of existing literature and emerging trends, this review provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for treating lung cancer.

Targeting CXCL9/10/11-CXCR3 axis: an important component of tumor-promoting and antitumor immunity

Chemokines are chemotactic-competent molecules composed of a family of small cytokines, playing a key role in regulating tumor progression. The roles of chemokines in antitumor immune responses are of great interest. CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 are important members of chemokines. It has been widely investigated that these three chemokines can bind to their common receptor CXCR3 and regulate the differentiation, migration, and tumor infiltration of immune cells, directly or indirectly affecting tumor growth and metastasis. Here, we summarize the mechanism of how the CXCL9/10/11-CXCR3 axis affects the tumor microenvironment, and list the latest researches to find out how this axis predicts the prognosis of different cancers. In addition, immunotherapy improves the survival of tumor patients, but some patients show drug resistance. Studies have found that the regulation of CXCL9/10/11-CXCR3 on the tumor microenvironment is involved in the process of changing immunotherapy resistance. Here we also describe new approaches to restoring sensitivity to immune checkpoint inhibitors through the CXCL9/10/11-CXCR3 axis.

Differential Anti-Tumor Effects of IFN-Inducible Chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 on a Mouse Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line

Chemokines are a group of cytokines involved in the mobilization of leukocytes, which play a role in host defense and a variety of pathological conditions, including cancer. Interferon (IFN)-inducible chemokines C-X-C motif ligand 9 (CXCL), CXCL10, and CXCL11 are anti-tumor chemokines; however, the differential anti-tumor effects of IFN-inducible chemokines are not completely understood. In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of IFN-inducible chemokines by transferring chemokine expression vectors into a mouse squamous cell carcinoma cell line, SCCVII, to generate a cell line stably expressing chemokines and transplanted it into nude mice. The results showed that CXCL9- and CXCL11-expressing cells markedly inhibited tumor growth, whereas CXCL10-expressing cells did not inhibit growth. The NH₂-terminal amino acid sequence of mouse CXCL10 contains a cleavage sequence by dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), an enzyme that cleaves the peptide chain of chemokines. IHC staining indicated DPP4 expression in the stromal tissue, suggesting CXCL10 inactivation. These results suggest that the anti-tumor effects of IFN-inducible chemokines are affected by the expression of chemokine-cleaving enzymes in tumor tissues.

Recombinant Newcastle disease virus kills liver cancer in vitro and in vivo

Aim: To construct and rescue a recombinant Newcastle disease virus that can express IP10 protein and evaluate its targeted killing effect on liver cancer in vivo and in vitro. Materials & methods: Fluorescence quantitative PCR, western blot and ELISA were used to detect the expression and secretion of IP10 in cells. The H22 mouse liver cancer cells were used to establish subcutaneous tumor-bearing mice experimental animal tumor models, and the tumor growth of mice in each group was observed while receiving treatment with rLasota. Results: The recombinant Newcastle disease virus was successfully constructed and can kill tumor cells successfully. Conclusion: The rLasota-IP10-IRES-EGFP achieves antitumor effects by killing hepatocellular carcinoma cells, enhancing T-lymphocyte infiltration in tumor tissues and inhibiting neovascularization.

The Role of CXC Chemokines in Cancer Progression

CXC chemokines are small chemotactic and secreted cytokines. Studies have shown that CXC chemokines are dysregulated in multiple types of cancer and are closely correlated with tumor progression. The CXC chemokine family has a dual function in tumor development, either tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive depending on the context of cellular signaling. Recent evidence highlights the pro-tumorigenic properties of CXC chemokines in most human cancers. CXC chemokines were found to play pivotal roles in promoting angiogenesis, stimulating inflammatory responses, and facilitating tumor metastases. Enhanced expression of CXC chemokines is always signatured with inferior survival and prognosis. The levels of CXC chemokines in cancer patients are in dynamic change according to the tumor contexts (e.g., chemotherapy resistance and tumor recurrence after surgery). Thus, CXC chemokines have great potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Currently, the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of CXC chemokines on tumor inflammation and metastasis remain unclear and application of antagonists and neutralizing antibodies of CXC chemokines signaling for cancer therapy is still not fully established. This article will review the roles of CXC chemokines in promoting tumorigenesis and progression and address the future research directions of CXC chemokines for cancer treatment.

Transient Systemic Autophagy Inhibition Is Selectively and Irreversibly Deleterious to Lung Cancer

Autophagy is a conserved catabolic process that maintains cellular homeostasis. Autophagy supports lung tumorigenesis and is a potential therapeutic target in lung cancer. A better understanding of the importance of tumor cell-autonomous versus systemic autophagy in lung cancer could facilitate clinical translation of autophagy inhibition. Here, we exploited inducible expression of Atg5 shRNA to temporally control Atg5 levels and to generate reversible tumor-specific and systemic autophagy loss mouse models of KrasG12D/+;p53-/- (KP) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Transient suppression of systemic but not tumor Atg5 expression significantly reduced established KP lung tumor growth without damaging normal tissues. In vivo13C isotope tracing and metabolic flux analyses demonstrated that systemic Atg5 knockdown specifically led to reduced glucose and lactate uptake. As a result, carbon flux from glucose and lactate to major metabolic pathways, including the tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, and serine biosynthesis, was significantly reduced in KP NSCLC following systemic autophagy loss. Furthermore, systemic Atg5 knockdown increased tumor T-cell infiltration, leading to T-cell-mediated tumor killing. Importantly, intermittent transient systemic Atg5 knockdown, which resembles what would occur during autophagy inhibition for cancer therapy, significantly prolonged lifespan of KP lung tumor-bearing mice, resulting in recovery of normal tissues but not tumors. Thus, systemic autophagy supports the growth of established lung tumors by promoting immune evasion and sustaining cancer cell metabolism for energy production and biosynthesis, and the inability of tumors to recover from loss of autophagy provides further proof of concept that inhibition of autophagy is a valid approach to cancer therapy.

SIGNIFICANCE

Transient loss of systemic autophagy causes irreversible damage to tumors by suppressing cancer cell metabolism and promoting antitumor immunity, supporting autophagy inhibition as a rational strategy for treating lung cancer. See related commentary by Gan, p. 4322.

Chemokines and NSCLC: Emerging role in prognosis, heterogeneity, and therapeutics

Lung cancer persists to contribute to one-quarter of cancer-associated deaths. Among the different histologies, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) alone accounts for 85% of the cases. The development of therapies involving immune checkpoint inhibitors and angiogenesis inhibitors has increased patients' survival probability and reduced mortality rates. Developing targeted therapies against essential genetic alterations also translates to better treatment strategies. But the benefits still seem farfetched due to the development of drug resistance and refractory tumors. In this review, we have highlighted the interplay of different tumor microenvironment components, essentially discussing the chemokine families (CC, CXC, C, and CX3C) that regulate the tumor biology in NSCLC and promote tumor growth, metastasis, and associated heterogeneity. The development of therapeutics and prognostic markers is a complex and multipronged approach. However, some essential chemokines can act as critical players for being considered potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets.

Contribution of CXCR3-mediated signaling in the metastatic cascade of solid malignancies

Metastasis is a significant cause of the mortality resulting from solid malignancies. The process of metastasis is complex and is regulated by numerous cancer cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic factors. CXCR3 is a chemokine receptor that is frequently expressed by cancer cells, endothelial cells and immune cells. CXCR3A signaling in cancer cells tends to promote the invasive and migratory phenotype of cancer cells. Indirectly, CXCR3 modulates the anti-tumor immune response resulting in variable effects that can permit or inhibit metastatic progression. Finally, the activity of CXCR3B in endothelial cells is generally angiostatic, which limits the access of cancer cells to key conduits to secondary sites. However, the interaction of these activities within a tumor and the presence of opposing CXCR3 splice variants clouds the picture of the role of CXCR3 in metastasis. Consequently, thorough analysis of the contributions of CXCR3 to cancer metastasis is necessary. This review is an in-depth examination of the involvement of CXCR3 in the metastatic process of solid malignancies.

The Role of Post-Translational Modifications of Chemokines by CD26 in Cancer

Chemokines are a large family of small chemotactic cytokines that fulfill a central function in cancer. Both tumor-promoting and -impeding roles have been ascribed to chemokines, which they exert in a direct or indirect manner. An important post-translational modification that regulates chemokine activity is the NH₂-terminal truncation by peptidases. CD26 is a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPPIV), which typically clips a NH₂-terminal dipeptide from the chemokine. With a certain degree of selectivity in terms of chemokine substrate, CD26 only recognizes chemokines with a penultimate proline or alanine. Chemokines can be protected against CD26 recognition by specific amino acid residues within the chemokine structure, by oligomerization or by binding to cellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Upon truncation, the binding affinity for receptors and GAGs is altered, which influences chemokine function. The consequences of CD26-mediated clipping vary, as unchanged, enhanced, and reduced activities are reported. In tumors, CD26 most likely has the most profound effect on CXCL12 and the interferon (IFN)-inducible CXCR3 ligands, which are converted into receptor antagonists upon truncation. Depending on the tumor type, expression of CD26 is upregulated or downregulated and often results in the preferential generation of the chemokine isoform most favorable for tumor progression. Considering the tight relationship between chemokine sequence and chemokine binding specificity, molecules with the appropriate characteristics can be chemically engineered to provide innovative therapeutic strategies in a cancer setting.

Potential therapeutic manipulations of the CXCR3 chemokine axis for the treatment of inflammatory fibrosing diseases

Chemokines play important roles in homeostasis and inflammatory processes. While their roles in leukocyte recruitment are well-appreciated, chemokines play additional roles in the body, including mediating or regulating angiogenesis, tumor metastasis and wound healing. In this opinion article, we focus on the role of CXCR3 and its ligands in fibrotic processes. We emphasize differences of the effects of each ligand, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11, on fibroblasts in different tissues of the body. We include discussions of differences in signaling pathways that may account for protective or pro-fibrotic effects of each ligand in different experimental models and ex vivo analysis of human tissues. Our goal is to highlight potential reasons why there are disparate findings in different models, and to suggest ways in which this chemokine axis could be manipulated for the treatment of fibrosis.

Non-canonical functions of human cytoplasmic tyrosyl-, tryptophanyl- and other aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases catalyze the aminoacylation of their cognate tRNAs. Here we review the accumulated knowledge of non-canonical functions of human cytoplasmic aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, especially tyrosyl- (TyrRS) and tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS). Human TyrRS and TrpRS have an extra domain. Two distinct cytokines, i.e., the core catalytic "mini TyrRS" and the extra C-domain, are generated from human TyrRS by proteolytic cleavage. Moreover, the core catalytic domains of human TyrRS and TrpRS function as angiogenic and angiostatic factors, respectively, whereas the full-length forms are inactive for this function. It is also known that many synthetases change their localization in response to a specific signal and subsequently exhibit alternative functions. Furthermore, some synthetases function as sensors for amino acids by changing their protein interactions in an amino acid-dependent manner. Further studies will be necessary to elucidate regulatory mechanisms of non-canonical functions of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in particular, by analyzing the effect of their post-translational modifications.

The CC and CXC chemokines: major regulators of tumor progression and the tumor microenvironment

Chemokines are a family of soluble cytokines that act as chemoattractants to guide the migration of cells, in particular of immune cells. However, chemokines are also involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Chemokines are associated with a variety of human diseases including chronic inflammation, immune dysfunction, cancer, and metastasis. This review discusses the expression of CC and CXC chemokines in the tumor microenvironment and their supportive and inhibitory roles in tumor progression, angiogenesis, metastasis, and tumor immunity. We also specially focus on the diverse roles of CXC chemokines (CXCL9-11, CXCL4 and its variant CXCL4L1) and their two chemokine receptor CXCR3 isoforms, CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B. These two distinct isoforms have divergent roles in tumors, either promoting (CXCR3-A) or inhibiting (CXCR3-B) tumor progression. Their effects are mediated not only directly in tumor cells but also indirectly via the regulation of angiogenesis and tumor immunity. A full comprehension of their mechanisms of action is critical to further validate these chemokines and their receptors as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in cancer.

The Distinct Roles of CXCR3 Variants and Their Ligands in the Tumor Microenvironment

First thought to orchestrate exclusively leukocyte trafficking, chemokines are now acknowledged for their multiple roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Dysregulation of their normal functions contributes to various pathologies, including inflammatory diseases and cancer. The two chemokine receptor 3 variants CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B, together with their cognate chemokines (CXCL11, CXCL10, CXCL9, CXCL4, and CXCL4L1), are involved in the control but also in the development of many tumors. CXCR3-A drives the infiltration of leukocytes to the tumor bed to modulate tumor progression (paracrine axis). Conversely, tumor-driven changes in the expression of the CXCR3 variants and their ligands promote cancer progression (autocrine axis). This review summarizes the anti- and pro-tumoral activities of the CXCR3 variants and their associated chemokines with a focus on the understanding of their distinct biological roles in the tumor microenvironment.

Molecular mechanisms regulating immune responses in thromboangiitis obliterans: A comprehensive review

Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) is a thrombotic-occlusive as well as an inflammatory peripheral vascular disease with unknown etiology. Recent evidence has supported the immunopathogenesis of the disease, however, the factors contributing to the altered immune function and vascular tissue inflammation are still unclear. This review was intended to collate the more current knowledge on the regulatory molecules involved in TAO from an immunoreactive perspective. The homeostasis of the immune system as well as a variety of progenitor cell populations appear to be affected during TAO and these alterations are associated with intrinsic signaling defects that are directing to an improved understanding of the crosstalk between angiogenesis and the immune system, as well as the potential of new co-targeting strategies applying both immunotherapy and angiogenic therapy.

PAQR4 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis through the CDK4-pRB-E2F1 pathway in non-small-cell lung cancer

Background

It is reported that progestin and adipoQ receptor 4 (PAQR4) has a tumorigenic effect on human breast cancer, but the role of PAQR4 in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of PAQR4 in NSCLC.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistchemical (IHC) staining were used to analyze the expression of PAQR4 in HCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. MTT, colony formation assay, flow cytometry (FCM), wound healing assays and transwell invasion assays were used to investigate the effects of PAQR4 on cell proliferation, colony formation, cell cycle, migration and invasion. Murine xenograft model assay was carried out to characterize the effects of PAQR4 knockdown on tumor growth in vivo.

Results

In this study, we found that the expression of PAQR4 was significantly upregulated in the NSCLC tissues of patients compared with that in the matched non-cancerous tissues. In addition, we found that PAQR4 was also significantly up-regulated in the NSCLC cell lines compared with normal human lung epithelial cells. Besides, we found that the over-expression of PAQR4 promoted promoted proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of the NSCLC cells, whereas the knockdown of PAQR4 inhibited proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of the NSCLC cells. Furthermore, mechanistic studies showed that the CDK4-pRB-E2F1 pathway was involved in NSCLC.

Conclusion

Hence, these results suggest that PAQR4 may be used as a new target in NSCLC therapy.

Predictive value of serum protein levels in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with nivolumab

BACKGROUND

Although programmed cell death-ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression in tumor tissue has been established as predictive biomarker for the anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) antibody treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), additional biomarkers are critically needed. We evaluated serum proteins relevant to immune checkpoint blockade in patients with NSCLC treated with nivolumab to identify novel non-invasive predictive biomarkers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with advanced NSCLC, who had failed at least one prior chemotherapy regimen, received nivolumab monotherapy (3 mg/kg, Q2W) until progressive disease (PD) or unacceptable toxicity was observed. Blood samples were collected at baseline and week 4. Fifty-seven serum protein levels were quantified with a Milliplex MAP assay. The associations of both clinical benefit (CB) and the onset of immune related adverse events (irAEs) with serum proteins levels were evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients with advanced NSCLC were enrolled in the study, with 38 and 32 paired serum samples at baseline and week 4 being available for efficacy analysis and irAE analysis, respectively. In durable CB (DCB) patients compared with non-DCB patients, the baseline serum levels of BMP-9 were significantly higher, whereas the follistatin, IL-8, IP-10, and TNF-α levels were significantly lower. In irAE patients compared with non-irAE patients the serum levels of G-CSF and RANTES at week 4 were significantly higher, whereas the levels of leptin were significantly lower. A multivariate analysis revealed that follistatin and IP-10 were statistically associated with DCB (p < 0.05) and RANTES was associated with irAE onset (p < 0.05). In a subset of irAE-developed patients, RANTES levels decreased after steroid administration, supporting its involvement in irAE.

CONCLUSION

Serum proteins have the potential to be predictive markers for DCB and irAEs onset in patients with NSCLC treated with nivolumab. In addition, antitumor activity and irAEs may not be regulated by the same mechanisms.

IL-10 promotes malignant pleural effusion in mice by regulating TH 1- and TH 17-cell differentiation and migration

The role of IL-10 in malignant pleural effusion (MPE) remains unknown. By using murine MPE models, we observed that an increase in pleural IL-10 was a significant predictor of increased risk of death. We noted that T_H 1- and T_H 17-cell content in MPE was higher in IL-10^-/- mice than in WT mice, and IL-10 deficiency promoted differentiation into T_H 1 but not into T_H 17 cells. A higher fraction of T_H 1 and T_H 17 cells in the MPE of IL-10^-/- mice expressed CXCR3 compared with WT mice. We also demonstrated that Lewis lung cancer and colon adenocarcinoma cells secreted large amounts of CXCL10, a ligand of CXCR3, which induced the migration of T_H 1 and T_H 17 cells into the MPE, and IFN-γ could promote this signaling cascade. Furthermore, intrapleural injection of mice with CXCL10-deficient tumor cells led to decreased T_H 1- and T_H 17-cell content in MPE, increased MPE volume, and reduced survival of MPE-bearing mice. Taken together, we demonstrated that IL-10 deficiency promoted T-cell differentiation into T_H 1 cells and upregulated the CXCR3-CXCL10 signaling pathway that recruits T_H 1 and T_H 17 cells into MPE, ultimately resulting in decreased MPE formation and longer survival time of mice-bearing MPE.

Salivary cytokine panel indicative of non-small cell lung cancer

Objective To develop a combinatorial panel of salivary cytokines that manifests the presence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that will eventually improve prognosis by facilitating the early diagnosis and management of this common cancer. Methods We performed a case-control study comparing salivary cytokine profiles of 35 adult subjects with NSCLC with those of 35 matched, healthy nonsmokers. Multiplex bead array assays were used to quantify 27 cytokines in saliva, serum, and oral mucosal transudate samples. Logistic regression analysis was used to develop an informative cytokine panel. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the discriminant ability of the panel. Results A combinatorial 12-cytokine panel (interleukin receptor antagonist [IL1RN], IL1B, IL6, IL7, IL8, IL10, C-C motif chemokine ligand 11 [CCL11], tumor necrosis factor, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 [CXCL10], C-C motif chemokine ligand 3, C-C motif chemokine ligand 4, and platelet-derived growth factor-BB) distinguished patients with NSCLC from healthy controls. Further, ROC analysis revealed that a cytokine panel comprising IL10 (odds ratio, 1.156) and CXCL10 (odds ratio, 1.000) discriminated NSCLC with a sensitivity of 60.6% and specificity of 80.8% (area under the ROC curve, 0.701). Conclusion A combinatorial panel of select salivary cytokines indicates the presence of NSCLC.

Inflammatory cytokines are associated with response and prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer

Background

Esophageal cancer is often marked by aggressive tumor growth and poor prognosis. Patient groups who benefit from perioperative therapy are not yet defined. The tumor microenvironment and circulating factors as possible predictors of response and prognosis gain interest. This study aimed to investigate cytokines in patients’ serum and tumor tissue with regard to response and prognosis.

Results

Median survival between SCC and AC was not different (published previously). Lower levels of CCL11 (Eotaxin-1) and CXCL10 (IP-10) in the tumor tissue were associated with a better prognosis (p = 0.022; p = 0.002). In the AC subgroup higher concentrations of TGF-β3 in serum and corresponding tumor tissue were associated with adverse prognosis (p = 0.035; p = 0.006). An association with histopathological response was found for IL-12(p70) and CXCL10 in patients’ sera (p = 0.041; p = 0.032). The tissue levels of TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 were significantly lower in histopathological responders than in nonresponders (p = 0.033; p = 0.007). A similar trend was seen for TGF-β3, without statistical significance (p = 0.097).

Materials and Methods

Preoperative serum samples and corresponding tumor tissue (n = 54), only serum (n = 20) or only tissue (n = 4) were collected from patients undergoing surgery for cT3/4 esophageal squamous cell cancer (SCC) (n = 34) and adenocarcinoma (AC) (n = 44). All samples were taken after neoadjuvant treatment. All patients received perioperative chemo(radio)therapy. Cytokine levels of 17 different cytokines were measured by multiplex immunoassay and correlated with clinicopathological factors.

Conclusions

Two chemokines (CCL11 and CXCL10) in posttherapeutic tumor tissue were associated with prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer, lower levels indicating a better prognosis. Lower levels of TGF-β were associated with better response and prognosis in patients with AC.

The therapeutic potential of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells producing CXCL10 in a mouse melanoma lung metastasis model

Interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa (IP-10) is a potent chemoattractant and has been suggested to enhance antitumor activity and mediate tumor regression through multiple mechanisms of action. Multiple lines of evidence have indicated that genetically-modified adult stem cells represent a potential source for cell-based cancer therapy. In the current study, we assessed therapeutic potential of human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSC) genetically-modified to express IP-10 for the treatment of lung metastasis in an immunocompetent mouse model of metastatic melanoma. A Piggybac vector encoding IP-10 was employed to transfect hADSC ex vivo. Expression and bioactivity of the transgenic protein from hADSCs expressing IP-10 were confirmed prior to in vivo studies. Our results indicated that hADSCs expressing IP-10 could inhibit the growth of B16F10 melanoma cells and significantly prolonged survival. Immunohistochemistry analysis, TUNEL assay and western blot analysis indicated that hADSCs expressing IP-10 inhibited tumor cell growth, hindered tumor infiltration of Tregs, restricted angiogenesis and significantly prolonged survival. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that targeting metastatic tumor sites by hADSC expressing IP-10 could reduce melanoma tumor growth and lung metastasis.

Improving immune-vascular crosstalk for cancer immunotherapy

The vasculature of tumours is highly abnormal and dysfunctional. Consequently, immune effector cells have an impaired ability to penetrate solid tumours and often exhibit compromised functions. Normalization of the tumour vasculature can enhance tissue perfusion and improve immune effector cell infiltration, leading to immunotherapy potentiation. However, recent studies have demonstrated that the stimulation of immune cell functions can also help to normalize tumour vessels. In this Opinion article, we propose that the reciprocal regulation between tumour vascular normalization and immune reprogramming forms a reinforcing loop that reconditions the tumour immune microenvironment to induce durable antitumour immunity. A deeper understanding of these pathways could pave the way for identifying new biomarkers and developing more effective combination treatment strategies for patients with cancer.

Expression Analysis of Angiogenesis-Related Genes in Bulgarian Patients with Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Aims and background

Angiogenesis is a key process in the early stages of tumor development. In this study we aimed to evaluate the expression of a panel of angiogenesis-related genes in a group of Bulgarian patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods and study design

We analyzed the expression of 84 genes associated with the angiogenic process in 12 NSCLCs of two histological subtypes: 7 adenocarcinomas and 5 squamous cell carcinomas. Eight peripheral nontumorous tissues were used as controls. We performed real-time PCR on pathway-specific gene arrays (SABiosciences).

Results

Our pilot study identified upregulated genes in early-stage NSCLC including growth factors (TGFA and EFNA3), the adhesion molecule THBS2, cytokines and chemokines (MDK, CXCL9, CXCL10), and the serine protease PLAU. Several genes showed downregulation including one growth factor (FIGF), the receptors for growth factors TEK and S1PR1 as well as adhesion molecules (COL4A3 and CDH5), the cytokine IL6, the matrix protein LEP and the transcription factor NOTCH4. The study demonstrated deregulated genes specific for the two histological subtypes including the transcription factor HAND2, which was overexpressed in squamous cell carcinomas but not adenocarcinomas.

Conclusions

Despite the limited number of patients, our results demonstrated the potential of angiogenesis-related genes as biomarkers in the early stages of NSCLC development. Free full text available at www.tumorionline.it

Differential expression profile of CXCR3 splicing variants is associated with thyroid neoplasia. Potential role in papillary thyroid carcinoma oncogenesis?

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most prevalent endocrine neoplasia. The increased incidence of PTC in patients with thyroiditis and the frequent immune infiltrate found in PTC suggest that inflammation might be a risk factor for PTC development. The CXCR3-ligand system is involved in thyroid inflammation and CXCR3 has been found upregulated in many tumors, suggesting its pro-tumorigenic role under the inflammatory microenvironment. CXCR3 ligands (CXCL4, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11) trigger antagonistic responses partly due to the presence of two splice variants, CXCR3A and CXCR3B. Whereas CXCR3A promotes cell proliferation, CXCR3B induces apoptosis. However, the relation between CXCR3 variant expression with chronic inflammation and PTC development remains unknown. Here, we characterized the expression pattern of CXCR3 variants and their ligands in benign tumors and PTC. We found that CXCR3A and CXCL10 mRNA levels were increased in non-metastatic PTC when compared to non-neoplastic tissue. This increment was also observed in a PTC epithelial cell line (TPC-1). Although elevated protein levels of both isoforms were detected in benign and malignant tumors, the CXCR3A expression remained greater than CXCR3B and promoted proliferation in Nthy-ori-3-1 cells. In non-metastatic PTC, inflammation was conditioning for the CXCR3 ligands increased availability. Consistently, CXCL10 was strongly induced by interferon gamma in normal and tumor thyrocytes.

Our results suggest that persistent inflammation upregulates CXCL10 expression favoring tumor development via enhanced CXCR3A-CXCL10 signaling. These findings may help to further understand the contribution of inflammation as a risk factor in PTC development and set the basis for potential therapeutic studies.

Potent Therapeutic Activity Against Peritoneal Dissemination and Malignant Ascites by the Novel Anti-Folate Receptor Alpha Antibody KHK2805

Many ovarian cancer patients often show peritoneal metastasis with malignant ascites. However, unmet medical needs remain regarding controlling these symptoms after tumors become resistant to chemotherapies. We developed KHK2805, a novel anti-folate receptor α (FOLR1) humanized antibody with enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). The primary aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the anti-tumor activity of KHK2805 was sufficient for therapeutic application against peritoneal dissemination and malignant ascites of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer in preclinical models. Here, both the ADCC and CDC of KHK2805 were evaluated in ovarian cancer cell lines and patient-derived samples. The anti-tumor activity of KHK2805 was evaluated in a SCID mouse model of platinum-resistant peritoneal dissemination. As results, KHK2805 showed specific binding to FOLR1 with high affinity at a novel epitope. KHK2805 exerted potent ADCC and CDC against ovarian cancer cell lines. Furthermore, primary platinum-resistant malignant ascites cells were susceptible to autologous ADCC with KHK2805. Patient-derived sera and malignant ascites induced CDC of KHK2805. KHK2805 significantly reduced the total tumor burden and amount of ascites in SCID mice with peritoneal dissemination and significantly prolonged their survival. In addition, the parental rat antibody strongly stained serous and clear cell-type ovarian tumors by immunohistochemistry. Overall, KHK2805 showed cytotoxicity against both ovarian cancer cell lines and patient-derived cells. These translational study findings suggest that KHK2805 may be promising as a novel therapeutic agent for platinum-resistant ovarian cancer with peritoneal dissemination and malignant ascites.

Tumors arise from the excessive repair of damaged stem cells

Although many hypotheses for tumorigenesis have been proposed, none can explain the occurrence and development of tumors comprehensively until now. We put forward a new hypothesis: tumors arise from the excessive repair of damaged stem cells. There are stem cells in all tissues and organs, and the stem cells have perfect damage repair mechanisms, including damage repair systems and repair-inhibiting systems. Tumors arise from the excessive repair of damaged stem cells, i.e., carcinogens induce stem cell damage, leading to overexpression of damage repair systems, and simultaneous inactivation of repair-inhibiting systems through genetic or non-genetic mechanisms, finally forming tumors. The outcome (forming clinically significant tumors or death) and development (tumor recurrence, metastasis or spontaneous healing) of the tumor cells depends on whether the injury and the excessive repair persists, whether immune surveillance function is normal and the tumor microenvironment is appropriate. This hypothesis not only addresses the issues of where tumor cells arise from, how tumors form and where they go, but also provides a reasonable explanation for many unresolved issues in tumor occurrence, development, metastasis or healing. In addition, this hypothesis could guide the early diagnosis, reasonable treatment and effective prevention of tumors.

Inositol 1, 4, 5-trisphosphate-dependent nuclear calcium signals regulate angiogenesis and cell motility in triple negative breast cancer

Increases in nuclear calcium concentration generate specific biological outcomes that differ from those resulting from increased cytoplasmic calcium. Nuclear calcium effects on tumor cell proliferation are widely appreciated; nevertheless, its involvement in other steps of tumor progression is not well understood. Therefore, we evaluated whether nuclear calcium is essential in other additional stages of tumor progression, including key steps associated with the formation of the primary tumor or with the metastatic cascade. We found that nuclear calcium buffering impaired 4T1 triple negative breast cancer growth not just by decreasing tumor cell proliferation, but also by enhancing tumor necrosis. Moreover, nuclear calcium regulates tumor angiogenesis through a mechanism that involves the upregulation of the anti-angiogenic C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10-IP10). In addition, nuclear calcium buffering regulates breast tumor cell motility, culminating in less cell invasion, likely due to enhanced vinculin expression, a focal adhesion structural protein. Together, our results show that nuclear calcium is essential for triple breast cancer angiogenesis and cell migration and can be considered as a promising strategic target for triple negative breast cancer therapy.

The Inflammatory CXC Chemokines, GROαhigh, IP-10low, and MIGlow, in Tumor Microenvironment Can Be Used as New Indicators for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Progression

AIMS

To investigate the clinical significance of tumor tissue-infiltrating chemokines expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) microenvironment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh tissue samples were acquired from 50 patients with NSCLC after operation. Then, we quantified the total protein with the BCA Protein Assay Kit and tested 13 chemotactic factors in paired samples including tumor tissues, tumor adjacent tissues, and normal tissues with the CBA Kit.

RESULTS

We found that the chemokine CC subfamily of MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and MIP-3α and the chemokine CXC subfamily of IL-8, GROα, IP-10, and MIG expressions in tumor tissues were significantly higher than those in tumor-adjacent tissues and normal tissues. However, regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), human thymus activation regulated chemokine (TARC), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 11 (CCL11), interferon-inducible T cell alpha chemoattractant (I-TAC), and ENA-78 expressions did not show significant difference. Analyzing the influence of chemokine expression level in tumor tissues on disease progression, we found the median progression-free survival (mPFS) of patients with GROα^high was significantly lower than those with GROα^low; mPFS of patients with IP-10^low was significantly lower than those with IP-10^high; and mPFS of patients with MIG^low was significantly lower than those with MIG^high. However, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, MIP-3α, and IL-8 had no significant value to elevate the mPFS of patients with NSCLC.

CONCLUSION

In summary, tumor tissue-infiltrating CXC chemokines, GROα^high, IP-10^low, and MIG^low in the tumor microenvironment can be used as potential indicators for the progression of NSCLC.

Enhanced and long term immunogenicity of a Her-2/neu multi-epitope vaccine conjugated to the carrier CRM197 in conjunction with the adjuvant Montanide

Background

We previously identified three short single peptides (P4, P6 and P7) representing different B-cell epitopes on the extracellular domain of Her-2/neu for a vaccine that was tested in a phase-I clinical trial. Here we describe the improvement of the multi peptide vaccine by fusing the single peptides to a hybrid peptide P467.

Methods

After coupling to either virosomes or to diphtheria toxoid CRM197 (CRM), the hybrid peptide was tested in different concentrations in combination with either Montanide or Aluminium hydroxide (Alum) in preclinical studies.

Results

Already low amount (10 μg) of P467 conjugated to CRM led to faster onset of high antibody levels compared to the P467-virosome. The formulation P467-CRM-Montanide induced higher serum IgG antibody titers, compared with P467-CRM-Alum, as examined by ELISA using recombinant Her-2/neu or Her-2/neu natively expressed on the tumor cell line SK-BR-3. Compared to P467-CRM-Alum, higher in vitro production of IL-2 and IFNγ in the Montanide-immunized mice was induced after re-stimulation of splenocytes with CRM but also with P467, indicating a clear Th1-biased response. In contrast to the single B cell peptides, the hybrid peptide led to T cell proliferation and cytokine production as CD4 T cell epitopes were generated in the fusion region of the single peptides P4 and P6 or P6 and P7. Additionally, a significantly higher proportion IFNγ-producing CD8+ T cells was found in the P467-CRM-Montanide immunized mice, probably by Montanide-driven bystander activation. Importantly, anti-P467 IgG antibodies exhibited anti-tumor properties and the combination of anti-P467 specific IgG with Herceptin® was found to inhibit the proliferation of Her-2/neu-overexpressing cell line SK-BR-3 in a significantly higher capacity than Herceptin® alone.

Conclusions

Fusion of the B cell peptides has led to additional generation of CD4 T cell epitopes, and this P467-multi epitope vaccine was found to induce polyclonal antibody responses with anti-proliferative capacity against Her-2/neu. The hybrid vaccine together with Montanide induced higher and long-lasting antibody levels, Th1-biased cellular responses being superior to vaccination with the single B cell peptides. This vaccine formulation is now planned to be evaluated in a phase Ib/II study in Her-2/neu overexpressing cancer patients.

Distinct immunological activation profiles of dSLIM® and ProMune® depend on their different structural context

INTRODUCTION

DNA-based TLR9 agonists are potent activators of the immune system. ProMune® and dSLIM® belong to different families of TLR9 agonists and both have been established as cancer immunotherapeutics in clinical proof-of-concept studies. Unfortunately, ProMune® failed in pivotal oncological trials. dSLIM®, the active ingredient of Lefitolimod (MGN1703), successfully finished a double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase II study in patients with advanced colorectal cancer, exhibiting improved progression-free survival and durable disease control.

METHODS

To explain the different systemic efficacies of dSLIM® and ProMune®, both TLR9 agonists and chimeric molecules thereof are analyzed side-by-side in a panel of in vitro assays for immune activation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Indeed, dSLIM® exposure results in an IFN-α dependent broad activation of immune cells whereas ProMune® strongly stimulates B cells. Moreover, all functional effects of dSLIM® strictly depend on the presence of CG-motifs within its dumbbell-shaped, covalently closed structural context. Conversely, several immunological effects of ProMune® like IL-8 secretion are independent of CG-motifs and could be ascribed to the phosphorothioate-modifications of its DNA backbone, which may have caused the side effects of ProMune® in clinical trials. Finally, we showed that the implementation of ProMune® (ODN2006) base sequence into the characteristic dSLIM® dumbbell form resulted in dSLIM2006 with all beneficial effects for immunostimulation combined from both TLR9 classes without any CG-independent effects.

Atypical chemokine receptors in cancer: friends or foes?

The chemokine system is a fundamental component of cancer-related inflammation involved in all stages of cancer development. It controls not only leukocyte infiltration in primary tumors but also angiogenesis, cancer cell proliferation, and migration to metastatic sites. Atypical chemokine receptors are a new, emerging class of regulators of the chemokine system. They control chemokine bioavailability by scavenging, transporting, or storing chemokines. They can also regulate the activity of canonical chemokine receptors with which they share the ligands by forming heterodimers or by modulating their expression levels or signaling activity. Here, we summarize recent results about the role of these receptors (atypical chemokine receptor 1/Duffy antigen receptor for chemokine, atypical chemokine receptor 2/D6, atypical chemokine receptor 3/CXC-chemokine receptor 7, and atypical chemokine receptor 4/CC-chemokine receptor-like 1) on the tumorigenesis process, indicating that their effects are strictly dependent on the cell type on which they are expressed and on their coexpression with other chemokine receptors. Indeed, atypical chemokine receptors inhibit tumor growth and progression through their activity as negative regulators of chemokine bioavailability, whereas, on the contrary, they can promote tumorigenesis when they regulate the signaling of other chemokine receptors, such as CXC-chemokine receptor 4. Thus, atypical chemokine receptors are key components of the regulatory network of inflammation and immunity in cancer and may have a major effect on anti-inflammatory and immunotherapeutic strategies.

Hydrogel dual delivered celecoxib and anti-PD-1 synergistically improve antitumor immunity

Two major challenges facing cancer immunotherapy are the relatively low therapeutic efficacy and the potential side effects. New drug delivery system and efficient drug combination are required to overcome these challenges. We utilize an alginate hydrogel system to locally deliver 2 FDA-approved drugs, celecoxib and programmed death 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody (mAb), to treat tumor-bearing mice. In two cancer models, B16-F10 melanoma and 4T1 metastatic breast cancer, the alginate hydrogel delivery system significantly improves the antitumor activities of celecoxib (CXB), PD-1 mAb, or both combined. These effects are associated with the sustained high concentrations of the drugs in peripheral circulation and within tumor regions. Strikingly, the simultaneous dual local delivery of celecoxib and PD-1 from this hydrogel system synergistically enhanced the presence of CD4+inteferon (IFN)-γ+ and CD8+IFN-γ+ T cells within the tumor as well as in the immune system. These effects are accompanied with reduced CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumor, reflecting a weakened immuosuppressive response. Furthermore, this combinatorial therapy increases the expression of two anti-angiogenic chemokines C-X-C motif ligand (CXCL) 9 and CXCL10, and suppresses the intratumoral production of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and cycloxygenase-2 (COX2), suggesting a dampened pro-tumor angiogenic and inflammatory microenvironment. This alginate-hydrogel-mediated, combinatorial therapy of celecoxib and PD-1 mAb provides a potential valuable regimen for treating human cancer.

Role of Chemokines in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Angiogenesis and Inflammation

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common types of aggressive cancer. The tumor tissue, which shows an active angiogenesis, is composed of neoplastic and stromal cells, and an abundant inflammatory infiltrate. Angiogenesis is important to support tumor growth, while infiltrating cells contribute to the tumor microenvironment through the secretion of growth factors, cytokines and chemokines, important molecules in the progression of the disease. Chemokines are important in development, activation of the immune response, and physiological angiogenesis. Chemokines have emerged as important regulators in the pathophysiology of cancer. These molecules are involved in the angiogenesis/angiostasis balance and in the recruitment of tumor infiltrating hematopoietic cells. In addition, chemokines promote tumor cell survival, as well as the directing and establishment of tumor cells to metastasis sites. The findings summarized here emphasize the central role of chemokines as modulators of tumor angiogenesis and their potential role as therapeutic targets in the inflammatory process of NSCLC angiogenesis.

Combining CXCL10 gene therapy and radiotherapy improved therapeutic efficacy in cervical cancer HeLa cell xenograft tumor models

Radiotherapy is an important treatment method for cervical cancer, but the efficacy requires improvement. Therefore, novel methods of treatment are required. Previous data have demonstrated that the CXC chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) inhibits angiogenesis, induces apoptosis and causes avoidance of the S phase of the cell cycle in cervical cancer cells. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-tumor effect of radiotherapy combined with CXCL10 gene therapy. Mouse models of cervical carcinoma were created by inoculation with HeLa cells, and were treated by combining intravenously administered plasmid-encoding CXCL10, administered 5 times (days 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 following inoculation), with direct radiation (20 Gy/5 fractions) administered on 5 consecutive days (~day 27 after inoculation). The vessel density and tumor cell proliferation were observed by immunostaining, and apoptosis was determined using a TUNEL assay. The results revealed a significant increase in the inhibition of tumor growth, reduced vessel density, decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis in the tumor cells of the combination therapy group. Overall, these findings resulted in the conclusion that CXCL10 gene therapy in combination with radiotherapy is a novel effective therapeutic strategy for cervical cancer.

Association between preeclampsia and the CXC chemokine family (Review)

Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity, characterized by gestational hypertension, proteinuria, systemic endothelial cell activation and an exaggerated inflammatory response. The precise cause of preeclampsia is not currently known; however, it is widely accepted that the pathogenesis of preeclampsia involves inadequate trophoblast invasion, leading to generalized endothelial dysfunction and an exaggerated inflammatory response. Chemokines are a superfamily of structurally similar proteins that mediate cell recruitment, angiogenesis, immunity and stem cell trafficking. CXC chemokines are a family of cytokines, unique in their ability to behave in a disparate manner in the regulation of angiogenesis. The CXC chemokine family further divides into two subfamilies; CXC ELR+, which promotes angiogenesis, and CXC ELR-, which inhibits angiogenesis. Furthermore, CXC chemokines are involved in the pathogenesis of various conditions, including malignant tumors, wound repair, chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis and potentially preeclampsia.

Tumor-induced senescent T cells promote the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factors by human monocytes/macrophages through a mechanism that involves Tim-3 and CD40L

Solid tumors are infiltrated by immune cells where macrophages and senescent T cells are highly represented. Within the tumor microenvironment, a cross-talk between the infiltrating cells may occur conditioning the characteristic of the in situ immune response. Our previous work showed that tumors induce senescence of T cells, which are powerful suppressors of lympho-proliferation. In this study, we report that Tumor-Induced Senescent (TIS)-T cells may also modulate monocyte activation. To gain insight into this interaction, CD4+ or CD8+TIS-T or control-T cells were co-incubated with autologous monocytes under inflammatory conditions. After co-culture with CD4+ or CD8+TIS-T cells, CD14+ monocytes/macrophages (Mo/Ma) exhibit a higher expression of CD16+ cells and a reduced expression of CD206. These Mo/Ma produce nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species; however, TIS-T cells do not modify phagocyte capacity of Mo/Ma. TIS-T modulated-Mo/Ma show a higher production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-1β and IL-6) and angiogenic factors (MMP-9, VEGF-A and IL-8) and a lower IL-10 and IP-10 secretion than monocytes co-cultured with controls. The mediator(s) present in the supernatant of TIS-T cell/monocyte-macrophage co-cultures promote(s) tubulogenesis and tumor-cell survival. Monocyte-modulation induced by TIS-T cells requires cell-to-cell contact. Although CD4+ shows different behavior from CD8+TIS-T cells, blocking mAbs against T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin protein 3 and CD40 ligand reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factors production, indicating that these molecules are involved in monocyte/macrophage modulation by TIS-T cells. Our results revealed a novel role for TIS-T cells in human monocyte/macrophage modulation, which may have deleterious consequences for tumor progression. This modulation should be considered to best tailor the immunotherapy against cancer.

Gallium maltolate inhibits human cutaneous T-cell lymphoma tumor development in mice

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) represent a heterogeneous group of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma characterized by an accumulation of malignant CD4 T cells in the skin. The group IIIa metal salt, gallium nitrate, is known to have antineoplastic activity against B-cell lymphoma in humans, but its activity in CTCLs has not been elaborated in detail. Herein, we examined the antineoplastic efficacy of a gallium compound, gallium maltolate (GaM), in vitro and in vivo with murine models of CTCLs. GaM inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis of cultured CTCL cells. In human CTCL xenograft models, peritumoral injection of GaM limited the growth of CTCL cells, shown by fewer tumor formations, smaller tumor sizes, and decreased neovascularization in tumor microenvironment. To identify key signaling pathways that have a role in GaM-mediated reduction of tumor growth, we analyzed inflammatory cytokines, as well as signal transduction pathways in CTCL cells treated by GaM. IFN-γ-induced chemokines and IL-13 were found to be notably increased in GaM-treated CTCL cells. However, immunosuppressive cytokines, such as IL-10, were decreased with GaM treatment. Interestingly, both oxidative stress and p53 pathways were involved in GaM-induced cytotoxicity. These results warrant further investigation of GaM as a therapeutic agent for CTCLs.

A model for cancer-suppressive inflammation

In oncology, inflammation is generally regarded as a cancer-promoting process only. Here, we argue that this view may represent a misleading oversimplification. We present evidence from our own work and from the literature documenting cancer-suppressive aspects of inflammation. We propose that specific types of inflammation, in particular inflammation driven by tumor-specific Th1 cells, may repress rather than promote cancer. Th1 cells collaborate with tumor-infiltrating M1 macrophages to efficiently recognize and eliminate malignant cells. In a Th1 environment, pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and tumor-necrosis factor α (TNFα) enhance anti-cancer immunity. Inducing Th1-type inflammation may significantly improve immunotherapeutic strategies against cancer.

Interferon-β inhibits glioma angiogenesis through downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor and upregulation of interferon inducible protein 10

Interferon-β (IFN-β) has been used clinically for malignant glioma growth inhibition. Recently IFN-β is re-evaluated for its sensitization mechanism to the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide, because angiogenesis is essential for malignant glioma growth. In this study, we investigated new mechanisms of inhibition of glioma angiogenesis by IFN-β. Three malignant glioma cell lines, U87, TK2 and Becker, were used for in vitro study. The effect of IFN-β for these cell lines were evaluated by means of proliferation (MTT assay), conditioned medium induced HUVEC migration, VEGF and interferon inducible protein 10 (IP10, angiogenesis inhibitor) expression by RT-PCR and western blot analysis. SCID mouse U87 subcutaneous model and U87 implant cranial window model were used for in vivo study. The effect of IFN-β with the models was evaluated by means of tumor growth, tumor tissue expression for VEGF and IP10, tumor tissue CD31 positive vessel densities, apoptosis and tumor microcirculation (blood velocity, interaction between leukocytes and endothelial cells). In vitro, IFN-β upregulated IP10 expression and downregulated VEGF expression time- (4–48 h) and dose- (10–5,000 U/ml) dependently. At the same dose, glioma cell-induced HUVEC migration was inhibited, but cell proliferation was not affected. IFN-β local and systemic injection at 10⁵ U and at 5×10⁵ U/day, for 15 days inhibited U87 subcutaneous growth significantly. In the tumor tissues, VEGF expression and vessel densities were downregulated, but IP10 expression and apoptosis index upregulated. In addition, IFN-β local injection increased collagen fiber deposition in the tumor tissues. IFN-β 5×10⁵ U/day, s.c. injection for 7 days reversed the decreased leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells, but did not affect blood velocity and vessel images. One of the important roles of IFN-β for malignant glioma growth inhibition was anti-angiogenesis by directly inhibiting angiogenesis through downregulation of VEGF and upregulation of IP-10 and indirectly changing the tumor microcirculation and regulating the interstitial pressure.

Stimulation of invariant natural killer T cells by α-Galactosylceramide activates the JAK-STAT pathway in endothelial cells and reduces angiogenesis in the 5T33 multiple myeloma model

Tumour pathogenesis in multiple myeloma (MM) correlates with a high vascular index. Therefore, targeting angiogenesis is an important therapeutic tool to reduce MM progression. This study aimed to investigate the role of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in angiogenesis and the mechanisms behind the stimulation by α-Galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). We have previously found that α-GalCer could increase the survival of 5T33MM mice and here we demonstrate that α-GalCer reduces the microvessel density. We performed both in vivo and in vitro angiogenic assays to confirm this observation. We found that conditioned medium of α-GalCer stimulated iNKT cells reduced neovascularization in the chick chorioallantoic membrane and in matrigel plug assays. Moreover, we observed a reduction in proliferation, migration and network formation and an induction of apoptosis upon exposure of murine endothelial cell lines to this conditioned medium. We furthermore observed that the JAK-STAT signaling pathway was highly activated in endothelial cells in response to stimulated iNKT cells, indicating the possible role of IFN-γ in the anti-angiogenic process. In conclusion, these results highlight the possibility of recruiting iNKT cells to target MM and angiogenesis. This gives a rationale for combining immunotherapy with conventional anti-tumour treatments in view of increasing their therapeutic potential.

The role of interleukin 17 in tumour proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis

With 7.6 million deaths globally, cancer according to the World Health Organisation is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Interleukin 17 (IL-17) is a cytokine produced by Th17 cells, a T helper cell subset developed from an activated CD4+ T-cell. Whilst the importance of IL-17 in human autoimmune disease, inflammation, and pathogen defence reactions has already been established, its potential role in cancer progression still needs to be updated. Interestingly studies have demonstrated that IL-17 plays an intricate role in the pathophysiology of cancer, from tumorigenesis, proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis, to adapting the tumour in its ability to confer upon itself both immune, and chemotherapy resistance. This review will look into IL-17 and summarise the current information and data on its role in the pathophysiology of cancer as well as its potential application in the overall management of the disease.

Genuine Immunomodulation With dSLIM

Toll-like receptors are sensing modulators of the innate immune system. One member of this protein family, Toll-like receptor (TLR)-9, is increasingly being investigated as therapeutic target for infectious diseases and cancer. Double-Stem Loop ImmunoModulator (dSLIM) is a new TLR-9 agonist in clinical development for patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Compared with other TLR-9 ligands developed as immunomodulators, dSLIM comprises single- and double-stranded DNA, is covalently closed, and consists of natural nucleotide components only. All investigated biologic effects of dSLIM are strongly dependent on CG motifs, and the relevant cellular activation profile of dSLIM is distinct to that of other TLR-9 agonists. Here we describe the structure and biologic profile of dSLIM: in isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), dSLIM induced a unique pattern of cytokine secretion, activated within the PBMC pool particular cell subpopulations, and exhibited specific cytotoxicity on target cells. Using cellular isolation and depletion setups, the mechanism of immunoactivation by dSLIM was deduced to be dependent on, but not restricted to, TLR-9-bearing plasmacytoid dendritic cells. The dSLIM-promoted cellular stimulation directs systemic activation of the immune response as revealed in cancer patients. The observed cellular activation cascades are discussed in the context of cancer therapy.

CXC and CC chemokines as angiogenic modulators in nonhaematological tumors

Chemokines are a superfamily of structurally homologous heparin-binding proteins that includes potent inducers and inhibitors of angiogenesis. The imbalance between angiogenic and angiostatic chemokine activities can lead to abnormalities, such as chronic inflammation, dysplastic transformation, and even tumor development and spreading. In this review, we summarize the current literature regarding the role of chemokines as modulators of tumor angiogenesis and their potential role as therapeutic targets in patients with nonhaematological tumors.

C-X-C ligand 10 and C-X-C receptor 3 status can predict tamoxifen treatment response in breast cancer patients

To investigate the expression levels of CXCL10 and CXCR3 in tumors from breast cancer patients randomized to adjuvant tamoxifen treatment or no endocrine treatment, in order to further study the connection to prognosis and prediction of tamoxifen treatment outcome. Immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays from 912 breast cancer patients randomized to tamoxifen or no endocrine treatment. CXCR3 status was found to be a prognostic tool in predicting distant recurrence, as well as reduced breast cancer-specific survival. In patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive tumors, tumors with strong CXCL10 levels had improved effect of tamoxifen treatment in terms of local recurrence-free survival [risk ratio (RR) 0.46 (95 % CI 0.25–0.85, P = 0.01)] compared with patients with tumors expressing weak CXCL10 expression. Further, patients with ER-positive tumors with strong CXCR3 expression had an improved effect of tamoxifen in terms of breast cancer-specific survival [RR 0.34 (95 % CI 0.19–0.62, P < 0.001)] compared with the group with weak CXCR3 levels [RR 1.33 (95 % CI 0.38–4.79, P = 0.65)]. We show here for the first time that CXCL10 and CXCR3 expression are both predictors of favorable outcome in patients treated with tamoxifen.