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Lu P, Ruan D, Huang M, Tian M, Zhu K, Gan Z, Xiao Z. Harnessing the potential of hydrogels for advanced therapeutic applications: current achievements and future directions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:166. [PMID: 38945949 PMCID: PMC11214942 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The applications of hydrogels have expanded significantly due to their versatile, highly tunable properties and breakthroughs in biomaterial technologies. In this review, we cover the major achievements and the potential of hydrogels in therapeutic applications, focusing primarily on two areas: emerging cell-based therapies and promising non-cell therapeutic modalities. Within the context of cell therapy, we discuss the capacity of hydrogels to overcome the existing translational challenges faced by mainstream cell therapy paradigms, provide a detailed discussion on the advantages and principal design considerations of hydrogels for boosting the efficacy of cell therapy, as well as list specific examples of their applications in different disease scenarios. We then explore the potential of hydrogels in drug delivery, physical intervention therapies, and other non-cell therapeutic areas (e.g., bioadhesives, artificial tissues, and biosensors), emphasizing their utility beyond mere delivery vehicles. Additionally, we complement our discussion on the latest progress and challenges in the clinical application of hydrogels and outline future research directions, particularly in terms of integration with advanced biomanufacturing technologies. This review aims to present a comprehensive view and critical insights into the design and selection of hydrogels for both cell therapy and non-cell therapies, tailored to meet the therapeutic requirements of diverse diseases and situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilin Lu
- Nanomedicine Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, PR China
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China
| | - Dongxue Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, PR China
| | - Meiqi Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Stomatology, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, 610021, PR China
| | - Kangshun Zhu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, and Laboratory of Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, PR China.
| | - Ziqi Gan
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, PR China.
| | - Zecong Xiao
- Nanomedicine Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, PR China.
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2
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Joo K, Karsulovic C, Sore M, Hojman L. Pivotal Role of mTOR in Non-Skin Manifestations of Psoriasis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6778. [PMID: 38928483 PMCID: PMC11204213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126778] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting 2% of the Western population. It includes diverse manifestations influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immune status. The sustained activation of mTOR is a key element in psoriasis pathogenesis, leading to an uncontrolled proliferation of cytokines. Furthermore, mTOR activation has been linked with the transition from psoriasis to non-skin manifestations such as psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular events. While therapies targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines have shown efficacy, additional pathways may offer therapeutic potential. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, known for its role in cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism, has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in psoriasis. This review explores the relevance of mTOR in psoriasis pathophysiology, focusing on its involvement in cutaneous and atheromatous plaque proliferation, psoriatic arthritis, and cardiovascular disease. The activation of mTOR promotes keratinocyte and synovial cell proliferation, contributing to plaque formation and joint inflammation. Moreover, mTOR activation may exacerbate the cardiovascular risk by promoting pro-inflammatory cytokine production and dysregulation lipid and glucose metabolism. The inhibition of mTOR has shown promise in preclinical studies, reducing skin inflammation and plaque proliferation. Furthermore, mTOR inhibition may mitigate cardiovascular risk by modulating cholesterol metabolism and attenuating atherosclerosis progression. Understanding the role of mTOR in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and cardiovascular disease provides insight into the potential treatment avenues and sheds light on the complex interplay of the immune and metabolic pathways in these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Joo
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile;
- Investigation in Dermatology and Autoimmunity—IDeA Lab, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile; (C.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Claudio Karsulovic
- Investigation in Dermatology and Autoimmunity—IDeA Lab, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile; (C.K.); (M.S.)
- Rheumatology Section, Internal Medicine Department, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile
| | - Milisa Sore
- Investigation in Dermatology and Autoimmunity—IDeA Lab, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile; (C.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Lia Hojman
- Investigation in Dermatology and Autoimmunity—IDeA Lab, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile; (C.K.); (M.S.)
- Dermatology Section, Surgery Department, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago P.O. Box 7630000, Chile
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3
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Felgueres MJ, Esteso G, García-Jiménez ÁF, Dopazo A, Aguiló N, Mestre-Durán C, Martínez-Piñeiro L, Pérez-Martínez A, Reyburn HT, Valés-Gómez M. BCG priming followed by a novel interleukin combination activates Natural Killer cells to selectively proliferate and become anti-tumour long-lived effectors. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13133. [PMID: 38849432 PMCID: PMC11161620 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62968-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The short-lived nature and heterogeneity of Natural Killer (NK) cells limit the development of NK cell-based therapies, despite their proven safety and efficacy against cancer. Here, we describe the biological basis, detailed phenotype and function of long-lived anti-tumour human NK cells (CD56highCD16+), obtained without cell sorting or feeder cells, after priming of peripheral blood cells with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Further, we demonstrate that survival doses of a cytokine combination, excluding IL18, administered just weekly to BCG-primed NK cells avoids innate lymphocyte exhaustion and leads to specific long-term proliferation of innate cells that exert potent cytotoxic function against a broad range of solid tumours, mainly through NKG2D. Strikingly, a NKG2C+CD57-FcεRIγ+ NK cell population expands after BCG and cytokine stimulation, independently of HCMV serology. This strategy was exploited to rescue anti-tumour NK cells even from the suppressor environment of cancer patients' bone marrow, demonstrating that BCG confers durable anti-tumour features to NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-José Felgueres
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Darwin, 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gloria Esteso
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Darwin, 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Álvaro F García-Jiménez
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Darwin, 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Dopazo
- Genomics Unit, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nacho Aguiló
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatrics, Radiology and Public Health of the University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragon, CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carmen Mestre-Durán
- Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, Hematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ, and Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- IdiPAZ-CNIO Pediatric Onco-Hematology Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Martínez-Piñeiro
- Urology Department and Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Pérez-Martínez
- Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, Hematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ, and Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- IdiPAZ-CNIO Pediatric Onco-Hematology Clinical Research Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Pediatric Department, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hugh T Reyburn
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Darwin, 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Valés-Gómez
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council (CNB-CSIC), Darwin, 3, 28049, Madrid, Spain.
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Lin C, Teng W, Tian Y, Li S, Xia N, Huang C. Immune landscape and response to oncolytic virus-based immunotherapy. Front Med 2024; 18:411-429. [PMID: 38453818 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1048-0] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic virus (OV)-based immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer treatment, offering a unique potential to selectively target malignant cells while sparing normal tissues. However, the immunosuppressive nature of tumor microenvironment (TME) poses a substantial hurdle to the development of OVs as effective immunotherapeutic agents, as it restricts the activation and recruitment of immune cells. This review elucidates the potential of OV-based immunotherapy in modulating the immune landscape within the TME to overcome immune resistance and enhance antitumor immune responses. We examine the role of OVs in targeting specific immune cell populations, including dendritic cells, T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages, and their ability to alter the TME by inhibiting angiogenesis and reducing tumor fibrosis. Additionally, we explore strategies to optimize OV-based drug delivery and improve the efficiency of OV-mediated immunotherapy. In conclusion, this review offers a concise and comprehensive synopsis of the current status and future prospects of OV-based immunotherapy, underscoring its remarkable potential as an effective immunotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaolong Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Wenzhong Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yang Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Shaopeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
| | - Chenghao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
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Yang L, Yi J, He W, Kong P, Xie Q, Jin Y, Xiong Z, Xia L. Death receptors 4/5 mediate tumour sensitivitNot applicably to natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity in mismatch repair deficient colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02673-z. [PMID: 38796599 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02673-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying the target of natural killer (NK) cells in colorectal cancer (CRC) is critical for optimising the clinical use of NK cell-mediated immunotherapy. Mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) is associated with high immune cell infiltration and MHC Class I defects. Whether dMMR CRC responses to NK cell therapy remains unclear. METHODS MLH1, DR4, and DR5 knockout cell lines were established using CRISPR-Cas9 system. NK92-MI or NK cell isolated from BABL/C mice were used as effector cells against tumour cells. Inflammatory cytokines secretion by CRC cells was assessed via cytokine analysis. NK-cell-deficient/proficient animal models were used to validate the NK cell sensitivity. RESULTS We observed that dMMR CRC cells were more sensitive to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity than were mismatch-repair-proficient (pMMR) CRC cells. In dMMR CRC, Death receptor (DR)4/5 was upregulated and mediated sensitivity to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. DR4/5-mediated secretion of interleukin -12 sustained NK cell viability in dMMR CRC. NK cell depletion induced dMMR CRC tumour growth, and NK cell transfer inhibited lung metastasis of dMMR CRC with DR4/5 expression in vivo. TP53 upregulated DR4/DR5 expression in dMMR CRC. CONCLUSIONS dMMR associated with increased sensitivity to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in CRC. DR4/DR5 sensitise dMMR CRC to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Jiahong Yi
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Wenzhuo He
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Pengfei Kong
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shang Hai, China
| | - Qiankun Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Yanan Jin
- The Cancer Center of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, ZhuHai, China
| | - Zhenchong Xiong
- Department of Breast Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Liangping Xia
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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6
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Kagoya Y. Cytokine signaling in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. Int Immunol 2024; 36:49-56. [PMID: 37591521 PMCID: PMC10872714 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxad033] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy using chimeric antigen-receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells can induce robust antitumor responses against hematologic malignancies. However, its efficacy is not durable in the majority of the patients, warranting further improvement of T-cell functions. Cytokine signaling is one of the key cascades regulating T-cell survival and effector functions. In addition to cytokines that use the common γ chain as a receptor subunit, multiple cytokines regulate T-cell functions directly or indirectly. Modulating cytokine signaling in CAR-T cells by genetic engineering is one promising strategy to augment their therapeutic efficacy. These strategies include ectopic expression of cytokines, cytokine receptors, and synthetic molecules that mimic endogenous cytokine signaling. Alternatively, autocrine IL-2 signaling can be augmented through reprogramming of CAR-T cell properties through transcriptional and epigenetic modification. On the other hand, cytokine production by CAR-T cells triggers systemic inflammatory responses, which mainly manifest as adverse events such as cytokine-release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity. In addition to inhibiting direct inflammatory mediators such as IL-6 and IL-1 released from activated macrophages, suppression of T-cell-derived cytokines associated with the priming of macrophages can be accomplished through genetic modification of CAR-T cells. In this review, I will outline recently developed synthetic biology approaches to exploit cytokine signaling to enhance CAR-T cell functions. I will also discuss therapeutic target molecules to prevent or alleviate CAR-T cell-related toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kagoya
- Division of Tumor Immunology, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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7
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Arabameri A, Arab S. Understanding the Interplay of CAR-NK Cells and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Insights from Computational Modeling. Bull Math Biol 2024; 86:20. [PMID: 38240892 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-023-01247-z] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered natural killer (NK) cells have recently emerged as a promising and safe alternative to CAR-T cells for targeting solid tumors. In the case of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), traditional cancer treatments and common immunotherapies have shown limited effectiveness. However, CAR-NK cells have been successfully employed to target epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on TNBC cells, thereby enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy. The effectiveness of CAR-NK-based immunotherapy is influenced by various factors, including the vaccination dose, vaccination pattern, and tumor immunosuppressive factors in the microenvironment. To gain insights into the dynamics and effects of CAR-NK-based immunotherapy, we propose a computational model based on experimental data and immunological theories. This model integrates an individual-based model that describes the interplay between the tumor and the immune system, along with an ordinary differential equation model that captures the variation of inflammatory cytokines. Computational results obtained from the proposed model shed light on the conditions necessary for initiating an effective anti-tumor response. Furthermore, global sensitivity analysis highlights the issue of low persistence of CAR-NK cells in vivo, which poses a significant challenge for the successful clinical application of these cells. Leveraging the model, we identify the optimal vaccination time, vaccination dose, and time interval between injections for maximizing therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abazar Arabameri
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Samaneh Arab
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
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8
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Zhang H, Yang L, Wang T, Li Z. NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:63-86. [PMID: 37601277 PMCID: PMC10432724 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.001] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells display a unique inherent ability to identify and eliminate virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They are particularly powerful for elimination of hematological cancers, and have attracted considerable interests for therapy of solid tumors. However, the treatment of solid tumors with NK cells are less effective, which can be attributed to the very complicated immunosuppressive microenvironment that may lead to the inactivation, insufficient expansion, short life, and the poor tumor infiltration of NK cells. Fortunately, the development of advanced nanotechnology has provided potential solutions to these issues, and could improve the immunotherapy efficacy of NK cells. In this review, we summarize the activation and inhibition mechanisms of NK cells in solid tumors, and the recent advances in NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy boosted by diverse nanomaterials. We also propose the challenges and opportunities for the clinical application of NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, 215123, China
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9
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Balzasch BM, Cerwenka A. Microenvironmental signals shaping NK-cell reactivity in cancer. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250103. [PMID: 37194594 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the postulation of the "missing-self" concept, much progress has been made in defining requirements for NK-cell activation. Unlike T lymphocytes that process signals from receptors in a hierarchic manner dominated by the T-cell receptors, NK cells integrate receptor signals more "democratically." Signals originate not only the downstream of cell-surface receptors triggered by membrane-bound ligands or cytokines, but are also mediated by specialized microenvironmental sensors that perceive the cellular surrounding by detecting metabolites or the availability of oxygen. Thus, NK-cell effector functions are driven in an organ and disease-dependent manner. Here, we review the latest findings on how NK-cell reactivity in cancer is determined by the reception and integration of complex signals. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to guide novel combinatorial approaches for NK-cell-based anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca M Balzasch
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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10
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Grassmann S, Santosa EK, Mujal AM, Kim H, Fan SX, Owyong M, Lau CM, Sun JC. Early antigen receptor signaling in natural killer cells alters STAT4-dependent fate decisions via epigenetic remodeling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.07.565992. [PMID: 37986752 PMCID: PMC10659287 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.07.565992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are innate cytotoxic lymphocytes that possess features of adaptive immunity, including antigen specificity and clonal expansion. NK cells rapidly respond to cytokines released during the innate phase of viral infection and are thought to migrate from circulation into infected organs to execute their early effector functions. However, recent evidence suggests that tissue-resident NK cells are among the first responders to viral infection. In this study, we observe that antigen receptor signaling precedes substantial proinflammatory cytokine signaling in a population of NK cells during mouse cytomegalovirus infection. Early antigen receptor signals epigenetically prime NK cells for optimal expansion during the later adaptive phase of the antiviral response. Mechanistically, receptor signaling increases chromatin accessibility at STAT4-binding genomic sites within differentiating NK cells. To promote adaptive programming of NK cells during infection, activating receptor-dependent epigenetic remodeling antagonizes IL-12 driven terminal maturation, poises NK cells for proliferation via sustained CDK6 expression, and antagonizes early apoptosis of short-lived effector cells via suppression of Bim. Thus, antigen receptor signaling alters an IL-12 dependent fate decision during the innate-to-adaptive transition of antiviral NK cells.
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11
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Vu SH, Pham HH, Pham TTP, Le TT, Vo MC, Jung SH, Lee JJ, Nguyen XH. Adoptive NK Cell Therapy - a Beacon of Hope in Multiple Myeloma Treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1275076. [PMID: 38023191 PMCID: PMC10656693 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1275076] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Major advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) have been achieved by effective new agents such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, or monoclonal antibodies. Despite significant progress, MM remains still incurable and, recently, cellular immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for relapsed/refractory MM. The emergence of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology has transformed immunotherapy by enhancing the antitumor functions of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, leading to effective control of hematologic malignancies. Recent advancements in gene delivery to NK cells have paved the way for the clinical application of CAR-NK cell therapy. CAR-NK cell therapy strategies have demonstrated safety, tolerability, and substantial efficacy in treating B cell malignancies in various clinical settings. However, their effectiveness in eliminating MM remains to be established. This review explores multiple approaches to enhance NK cell cytotoxicity, persistence, expansion, and manufacturing processes, and highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with CAR-NK cell therapy against MM. By shedding light on these aspects, this review aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of CAR-NK cell therapy as a promising approach for improving the treatment outcomes of MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Son Hai Vu
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ha Hong Pham
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thao Thi Phuong Pham
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thanh Thien Le
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Manh-Cuong Vo
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Jung Lee
- Research Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuan-Hung Nguyen
- Hi-Tech Center and Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
- College of Health Sciences, VinUniversity, Hanoi, Vietnam
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12
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Kashyap MP, Mishra B, Sinha R, Jin L, Kumar N, Goliwas KF, Deshane J, Elewski BE, Elmets CA, Athar M, Shahid Mukhtar M, Raman C. NK and NKT cells in the pathogenesis of Hidradenitis suppurativa: Novel therapeutic strategy through targeting of CD2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.31.565057. [PMID: 37961206 PMCID: PMC10634971 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.31.565057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic debilitating inflammatory skin disease with poorly understood pathogenesis. Single-cell RNAseq analysis of HS lesional and healthy individual skins revealed that NKT and NK cell populations were greatly expanded in HS, and they expressed elevated CD2, an activation receptor. Immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed significantly expanded numbers of CD2+ cells distributed throughout HS lesional tissue, and many co-expressed the NK marker, CD56. While CD4+ T cells were expanded in HS, CD8 T cells were rare. CD20+ B cells in HS were localized within tertiary follicle like structures. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that NK cells (CD2 + CD56 dim ) expressing perforin, granzymes A and B were enriched within the hyperplastic follicular epidermis and tunnels of HS and juxtaposed with apoptotic cells. In contrast, NKT cells (CD2 + CD3 + CD56 bright ) primarily expressed granzyme A and were associated with α-SMA expressing fibroblasts within the fibrotic regions of the hypodermis. Keratinocytes and fibroblasts expressed high levels of CD58 (CD2 ligand) and they interacted with CD2 expressing NKT and NK cells. The NKT/NK maturation and activating cytokines, IL-12, IL-15 and IL-18, were significantly elevated in HS. Inhibition of cognate CD2-CD58 interaction with blocking anti-CD2 mAb in HS skin organotypic cultures resulted in a profound reduction of the inflammatory gene signature and secretion of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the culture supernate. In summary, we show that a cellular network of heterogenous NKT and NK cell populations drives inflammation, tunnel formation and fibrosis in the pathogenesis of HS. Furthermore, CD2 blockade is a viable immunotherapeutic approach for the management of HS.
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13
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Terrén I, Sandá V, Amarilla-Irusta A, Lopez-Pardo A, Sevilla A, Astarloa-Pando G, Amo L, Zenarruzabeitia O, Scorrano L, Borrego F. IL-12/15/18-induced cell death and mitochondrial dynamics of human NK cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1211839. [PMID: 37575238 PMCID: PMC10413107 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1211839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes with potent antitumor functions and, consequently, several NK cell-based strategies have been developed for cancer immunotherapy. A remarkable therapeutic approach is the adoptive transfer of NK cells stimulated with IL-12, IL-15 and IL-18. This cytokine stimulation endows NK cells with properties that resemble immunological memory and, for this reason, they are known as cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells. Very promising results have been reported in clinical trials and yet, there are still unknown aspects of CIML NK cells. Here, we have conducted a preliminary study of their mitochondrial dynamics. Our results show that upon IL-12/15/18 stimulation the viability of NK cells decreased and an increment in mitochondrial superoxide levels was observed. In addition, we found that mitochondria appeared slightly elongated and their cristae density decreased following IL-12/15/18 stimulation, possibly in a process mediated by the low levels of optic atrophy type 1 (OPA1) protein. Interestingly, although mitophagy was slightly impaired, an increase in autophagic flux was observed, which might explain the reduced viability and the accumulation of unfit mitochondria. Our findings could be of relevance in order to design new strategies intended to improve the mitochondrial fitness of IL-12/15/18-stimulated NK cells with the aim of improving their therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Terrén
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Víctor Sandá
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Ainara Lopez-Pardo
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Arrate Sevilla
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain
| | | | - Laura Amo
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Olatz Zenarruzabeitia
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Luca Scorrano
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Francisco Borrego
- Immunopathology Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
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14
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Li F, Liu S. Focusing on NK cells and ADCC: A promising immunotherapy approach in targeted therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1083462. [PMID: 36601109 PMCID: PMC9806173 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1083462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer has a high metastatic potential. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target HER2, such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab, are the cornerstone of adjuvant therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer. A growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence points to the importance of innate immunity mediated by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in the clinical effect of mAbs on the resulting anti-tumor response. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of natural killer (NK) cells and ADCC in targeted therapy of HER2-positive breast cancer, including the biological functions of NK cells and the role of NK cells and ADCC in anti-HER2 targeted drugs. We then discuss regulatory mechanisms and recent strategies to leverage our knowledge of NK cells and ADCC as an immunotherapy approach for HER2-positive breast cancer.
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15
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Shemesh A, Su Y, Calabrese DR, Chen D, Arakawa-Hoyt J, Roybal KT, Heath JR, Greenland JR, Lanier LL. Diminished cell proliferation promotes natural killer cell adaptive-like phenotype by limiting FcεRIγ expression. J Exp Med 2022; 219:e20220551. [PMID: 36066491 PMCID: PMC9448639 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20220551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human adaptive-like natural killer (NK) cells express low levels of FcεRIγ (FcRγ-/low) and are reported to accumulate during COVID-19 infection; however, the mechanism underlying and regulating FcRγ expression in NK cells has yet to be fully defined. We observed lower FcRγ protein expression in NK cell subsets from lung transplant patients during rapamycin treatment, suggesting a link with reduced mTOR activity. Further, FcRγ-/low NK cell subsets from healthy donors displayed reduced mTOR activity. We discovered that FcRγ upregulation is dependent on cell proliferation progression mediated by IL-2, IL-15, or IL-12, is sensitive to mTOR suppression, and is inhibited by TGFβ or IFNα. Accordingly, the accumulation of adaptive-like FcRγ-/low NK cells in COVID-19 patients corresponded to increased TGFβ and IFNα levels and disease severity. Our results show that an adaptive-like NK cell phenotype is induced by diminished cell proliferation and has an early prognostic value for increased TGFβ and IFNα levels in COVID-19 infection associated with disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avishai Shemesh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Yapeng Su
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA
| | - Daniel R. Calabrese
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
- Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Daniel Chen
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Department of Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Janice Arakawa-Hoyt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kole T. Roybal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA
- Gladstone University of California, San Francisco Institute for Genetic Immunology, San Francisco, CA
- University of California, San Francisco Cell Design Institute, San Francisco, CA
| | - James R. Heath
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - John R. Greenland
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
- Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lewis L. Lanier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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