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Du W, Yang F, Hui Z, Zhang J, Shen M, Ren X, Wei F. Examining the spatial distribution of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in patients with stage I to IIIA LUAD. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 116:536-543. [PMID: 38236199 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiae012] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the spatial distribution of immune cells by application of Gcross function in 170 patients with stage I to IIIA lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and explore its prognostic value. A total of 170 stage I to IIIA LUAD patients who underwent radical surgery were enrolled. Paraffinized tumor sections were collected for 2 panels of multicolor immunofluorescence staining (panel 1: CD4, CD8, FOXP3, CD69, CD39, CD73, and DAPI; panel 2: CD68, CD163, CD20, CD11c, PDL1, IDO, and DAPI). The immune cells were categorized as CD8+, CD4+ T helper cell (CD4Th), regulatory T cell, macrophage type 1 (M1), M2, dendritic cell (DC), and B cell. The immune cell numbers were enumerated, and the immune cell proximity score was calculated employing the Gcross function. The correlation between immune cell variables and disease-free survival (DFS) was explored through univariate Cox regression analyses. Factors with P < 0.05 were subjected to multivariate analyses. According to univariate Cox regression analyses, total PDL1+ and PDL1+ DC counts were negative factors (P = 0.003 and 0.031, respectively). CD4Th and IDO-DC counts were positive factors (P = 0.022 and 0.024, respectively). The proximity score (M1 to M2) was a positive factor for DFS (P = 0.032), and the proximity score (PDL1 + DC to M1) was a negative factor (P = 0.009) according to univariate Cox analyses. In multivariate analyses, stage (IIIA vs I + II) (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.77 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18-2.64], P = 0.006) and proximity score (PDL1 + DC to M1) (HR: 1.60 [95% CI: 1.07-2.37], P = 0.021) were independent negative factors and CD4Th counts (HR: 0.60 [95% CI: 0.40-0.90], P = 0.013) was an independent positive factor. Our study indicated that a higher level of tumor-infiltrating CD4Th cells predicted longer DFS, and a closer proximity of PDL1+ DCs to M1 cells was associated with dismal DFS in stage I to IIIA LUAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijiao Du
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hui
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Meng Shen
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Huanhuxi Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
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Wang Y, Zhu Z, Luo R, Chen W. Single-cell transcriptome analysis reveals heterogeneity of neutrophils in non-small cell lung cancer. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3690. [PMID: 38735760 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3690] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer stands out as a highly perilous malignant tumor with severe implications for human health. There has been a growing interest in neutrophils as a result of their role in promoting cancer in recent years. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the heterogeneity of neutrophils in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing of tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) and polymorphonuclear neutrophils sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus database was analyzed. Moreover, cell-cell communication, differentiation trajectories and transcription factor analyses were performed. RESULTS Neutrophils were found to be closely associated with macrophages. Four major types of TANs were identified: a transitional subcluster that migrated from blood to tumor microenvironment (TAN-0), an inflammatory subcluster (TAN-1), a subpopulation that displayed a distinctive transcriptional signature (TAN-2) and a final differentiation state that promoted tumor formation (TAN-3). Meanwhile, TAN-3 displayed a marked increase in glycolytic activity. Finally, transcription factors were analyzed to uncover distinct TAN cluster-specific regulons. CONCLUSIONS The discovery of the dynamic characteristics of TANs in the present study is anticipated to contribute to yielding a better understanding of the tumor microenvironment and advancing the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunzhen Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Raojun Luo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Chen
- Nursing Department, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Luo J, Shi X, Liu Y, Wang J, Wang H, Yang X, Sun Q, Hui Z, Wei F, Ren X, Zhao H. Immune checkpoint ligands expressed on mature high endothelial venules predict poor prognosis of NSCLC: have a relationship with CD8 + T lymphocytes infiltration. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1302761. [PMID: 38390332 PMCID: PMC10882939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1302761] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background An insufficient number of intratumoral CD8+ T lymphocytes is a major barrier to antitumor immunity and immunotherapy. High endothelial venules (HEVs) are the major sites through which lymphocytes enter tumors; however, the molecular mechanism through which HEVs mediate CD8+ T lymphocyte infiltration remains poorly understood. Methods Forty-two patients with stage IIIA lung adenocarcinoma, who underwent surgery, were recruited. Multiplex immunohistochemical staining was conducted on tumor tissues to detect the immune checkpoint ligands (ICLs) expressed in the HEVs, blood vessels, and lymphatics. A new ICL score model was constructed to evaluate ligand expression. The relationship between ICL score, tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cell frequency, and survival of patients was investigated. Results Mature HEVs, but not blood vessels or lymphatics, mediated CD8+ T cell infiltration. However, the ICLs expressed on mature HEVs could negatively regulate CD8+ T cell entry into tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs). In addition, according to the results obtained using our ICLtotal score model, the expression of ICLs on HEVs was observed to be a predictor of both CD8+ T cell infiltration and survival, in which a high ICLtotal score > 1 represent a weak CD8+ T cell infiltration and a high ICLtotal score > 2 predicts poor survival. Conclusion Using the ICL score model, we discovered that ICLs expressed on HEVs are indicative of CD8+ T cell subset infiltration in TLSs, as well as of patient survival with lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuhuan Shi
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, China
| | - Yumeng Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuena Yang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hui
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China
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Qi YQ, Xiong F, Chen YJ. The correlation between tumor-associated macrophages and the prognosis of east Asian hepatocellular carcinoma patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 252:154919. [PMID: 37939428 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous related studies have found that the levels of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) were correlated with prognoses in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the prognostic value of TAMs for East Asian HCC patients remains inconclusive. METHODS Our objectives were to systematically review the performance and explore the prognostic and clinical value of TAMs in patients with HCC. A total of 23 relevant studies of 4389 patients were included into our meta-analysis. And the work has been reported in line with PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS The results demonstrated that increased expression level of peritumoral infiltrated CD68+ macrophages had a poor prognostic value on overall survival (OS), disease free survival (DFS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). However, there was no correlation between disease-free survival (DFS) and the abundance of CD68+ TAMs both in intratumoral regions. Additionally, low density of CD169+, high density of CD206, and high density of CD204+ TAMs had a worse prognostic value on OS while the CD163+ TAMs had no diagnostic value on OS. The densities of CD68+ TAMs exhibited significantly correlation with AFP level and vascular invasion. The levels of CD169+ TAMs showed apparent relation to vascular invasion and TNM stages. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that TAMs may accomplish as significant prognostic biomarkers for East Asian HCC patients. However, further researches should be performed to estimate the clinical value of TAMs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qiang Qi
- Department of Biliary-pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Department of Biliary-pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yong-Jun Chen
- Department of Biliary-pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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Luo J, Pang S, Hui Z, Zhao H, Xu S, Yu W, Yang L, Sun Q, Hao X, Wei F, Wang J, Ren X. Blocking Tim-3 enhances the anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 by unleashing CD4 + T cells through regulating type 2 conventional dendritic cells. Theranostics 2023; 13:4836-4857. [PMID: 37771774 PMCID: PMC10526657 DOI: 10.7150/thno.86792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: An immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) is a major obstacle in tumor immunotherapy. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists trigger an inflammatory innate immune response to potentially overcome tumor immunosuppression. While STING agonists may hold promise as potential cancer therapy agents, tumor resistance to STING monotherapy has emerged in clinical trials, and the mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: The in vivo anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 (S100), plus anti-T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 antibody (αTim-3) were measured using murine tumor models. Tumor-specific T cell activation and alterations in the TME were detected using flow cytometry. The maturation and function of dendritic cells (DC) were also measured using flow cytometry, and the importance of CD4+ T cells in combination therapy was measured by blocking antibodies. Additionally, the effect of S100 on CD4+ T was verified via in vitro assays. Lastly, the impact of conventional dendritic cells (cDC) 2 with a high expression of Tim-3 on survival or therapeutic outcomes was further evaluated in human tumor samples. Results: S100 boosted CD8+ T by activating cDC1 but failed to initiate cDC2. Mechanistically, the administration of S100 results in an upregulation of Tim-3 expressed in cDC2 (Tim-3+cDC2) in both mice and humans, which is immunosuppressive. Tim-3+cDC2 restrained CD4+ T and attenuated the CD4+ T-driven anti-tumor response. Combining S100 with αTim-3 effectively promoted cDC2 maturation and antigen presentation, releasing CD4+ T cells, thus reducing tumor burden while prolonging survival. Furthermore, high percentages of Tim-3+cDC2 in the human TME predicted poor prognosis, whereas the abundance of Tim-3+cDC2 may act as a biomarker for CD4+ T quality and a contributing indicator for responsiveness to immunotherapy. Conclusion: This research demonstrated that blocking Tim-3 could enhance the anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 by releasing CD4+ T cells through regulating cDC2. It also revealed an intrinsic barrier to ADU-S100 monotherapy, besides providing a combinatorial strategy for overcoming immunosuppression in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Shuju Pang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hui
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Shilei Xu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Lili Yang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xishan Hao
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
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Yu X, Xu L, Zhou Y, Zhou X, Yang L, Zhou Y. NUP62CL as an Immunological and Prognostic Biomarker of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Inflamm Res 2023; 16:3799-3809. [PMID: 37663758 PMCID: PMC10474866 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s426277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common head and neck malignancy with a high mortality rate and poor prognosis. The exploration and understanding of biomarkers will help to further improve the diagnosis and treatment of OSCC. Methods Tumor tissue samples from 319 OSCC patients were retrospectively collected, along with their clinical information. In combination with bioinformatics tools and multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) analyses, we evaluated NUP62CL protein expression and its relationship to tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as its association with clinical features and prognosis of OSCC. Results We identified high-NUP62CL expression in OSCC tissues, and high-NUP62CL protein expression was associated with large tumor size, advanced clinical stage and poor prognosis. In addition, NUP62CL protein expression was positively associated with the abundance of CD3+CD4+ T cells (P<0.01), CD3+CD8+ T cells (P<0.01), CD56+ NK cells (P<0.05), CD68+CD86+ macrophages (P<0.01) and CD68+CD163+ macrophages (P<0.01), as well as the immune checkpoints, including PD-1 (P<0.001), PD-L1 (P<0.001), and CTLA-4 (P<0.001) protein expression. Conclusion In conclusion, NUP62CL could be an effective prognostic and immunological biomarker for OSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yu
- Department of Orthodontics and Periodontology, Affiliated Nantong Stomatological Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lijun Xu
- Department of Clinical Biobank & Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongqiang Zhou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Nantong Stomatological Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaorong Zhou
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Clinical Biobank & Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Orthodontics and Periodontology, Affiliated Nantong Stomatological Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People’s Republic of China
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Andhari MD, Antoranz A, De Smet F, Bosisio FM. Recent advancements in tumour microenvironment landscaping for target selection and response prediction in immune checkpoint therapies achieved through spatial protein multiplexing analysis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 382:207-237. [PMID: 38225104 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapies have significantly advanced cancer treatment. Nevertheless, the high costs and potential adverse effects associated with these therapies highlight the need for better predictive biomarkers to identify patients who are most likely to benefit from treatment. Unfortunately, the existing biomarkers are insufficient to identify such patients. New high-dimensional spatial technologies have emerged as a valuable tool for discovering novel biomarkers by analysing multiple protein markers at a single-cell resolution in tissue samples. These technologies provide a more comprehensive map of tissue composition, cell functionality, and interactions between different cell types in the tumour microenvironment. In this review, we provide an overview of how spatial protein-based multiplexing technologies have fuelled biomarker discovery and advanced the field of immunotherapy. In particular, we will focus on how these technologies contributed to (i) characterise the tumour microenvironment, (ii) understand the role of tumour heterogeneity, (iii) study the interplay of the immune microenvironment and tumour progression, (iv) discover biomarkers for immune checkpoint therapies (v) suggest novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhavi Dipak Andhari
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Asier Antoranz
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederik De Smet
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francesca Maria Bosisio
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Hui Z, Ren Y, Zhang D, Chen Y, Yu W, Cao J, Liu L, Wang T, Xiao S, Zheng L, Pu Y, Wei F, You J, Ren X. PD-1 blockade potentiates neoadjuvant chemotherapy in NSCLC via increasing CD127 + and KLRG1 + CD8 T cells. NPJ Precis Oncol 2023; 7:48. [PMID: 37231145 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00384-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The combination of PD-1 blockade with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has achieved unprecedented clinical success in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared to NAC alone, but the underlying mechanisms by which PD-1 blockade augments the effects of chemotherapy remain incompletely elucidated. Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on CD45+ immune cells isolated from surgically resected fresh tumors of seven NSCLC patients receiving NAC or neoadjuvant pembrolizumab and chemotherapy (NAPC). Multiplex fluorescent immunohistochemistry was performed on FFPE tissues before and after NAC or NAPC from 65 resectable NSCLC patients, and results were validated with GEO dataset. NAC resulted in an increase only of CD20+ B cells, whereas NAPC increased the infiltration of CD20+ B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD4+CD127+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD8+CD127+ and CD8+KLRG1+ T cells. Synergistic increase in B and T cells promotes favorable therapeutic response after NAPC. Spatial distribution analysis discovered that CD8+ T cells and their CD127+ and KLRG1+ subsets were in closer proximity to CD4+ T/CD20+ B cells in NAPC versus NAC. GEO dataset validated that B-cell, CD4, memory, and effector CD8 signatures correlated with therapeutic responses and clinical outcomes. The addition of PD-1 blockade to NAC promoted anti-tumor immunity through T and B cells recruitment in the tumor microenvironment and induced tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells skewed toward CD127+ and KLRG1+ phenotypes, which may be assisted by CD4+ T cells and B cells. Our comprehensive study identified key immune cell subsets exerting anti-tumor responses during PD-1 blockade therapy and that may be therapeutically targeted to improve upon existing immunotherapies for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Hui
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yulin Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yulong Chen
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Lung Cancer, Tianjin Lung Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jie Cao
- Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Liang Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of R&D, Hangzhou Repugene Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 311100, China
| | - Shanshan Xiao
- Department of R&D, Hangzhou Repugene Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 311100, China
| | - Liuqing Zheng
- Department of R&D, Hangzhou Repugene Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 311100, China
| | - Yue Pu
- Department of R&D, Hangzhou Repugene Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 311100, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Jian You
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Department of Lung Cancer, Tianjin Lung Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China.
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China.
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Parra ER, Zhang J, Jiang M, Tamegnon A, Pandurengan RK, Behrens C, Solis L, Haymaker C, Heymach JV, Moran C, Lee JJ, Gibbons D, Wistuba II. Immune cellular patterns of distribution affect outcomes of patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2364. [PMID: 37185575 PMCID: PMC10130161 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Studying the cellular geographic distribution in non-small cell lung cancer is essential to understand the roles of cell populations in this type of tumor. In this study, we characterize the spatial cellular distribution of immune cell populations using 23 makers placed in five multiplex immunofluorescence panels and their associations with clinicopathologic variables and outcomes. Our results demonstrate two cellular distribution patterns-an unmixed pattern mostly related to immunoprotective cells and a mixed pattern mostly related to immunosuppressive cells. Distance analysis shows that T-cells expressing immune checkpoints are closer to malignant cells than other cells. Combining the cellular distribution patterns with cellular distances, we can identify four groups related to inflamed and not-inflamed tumors. Cellular distribution patterns and distance are associated with survival in univariate and multivariable analyses. Spatial distribution is a tool to better understand the tumor microenvironment, predict outcomes, and may can help select therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Roger Parra
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jiexin Zhang
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mei Jiang
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Auriole Tamegnon
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Carmen Behrens
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luisa Solis
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cara Haymaker
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John Victor Heymach
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cesar Moran
- Departments of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jack J Lee
- Departments of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Don Gibbons
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ignacio Ivan Wistuba
- Departments of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Departments of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Sun P, Zhang H, Shi J, Xu M, Cheng T, Lu B, Yang L, Zhang X, Huang J. KRTCAP2 as an immunological and prognostic biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 222:113124. [PMID: 36634487 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in protein glycosylation affect tumor progression and immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. Keratinocyte-associated protein 2 (KRTCAP2) encodes the corresponding proteins involved in N-glycosylation. The clinical predictive significance and immune role of KRTCAP2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) largely remain elusive. Combining bioinformatics tools and multiplex immunohistochemistry analysis, we evaluated the KRTCAP2 expression in the HCC tumor microenvironment. The results showed that KRTCAP2 mRNA and protein expression were markedly increased in HCC tissues. Furthermore, high KRTCAP2 expression was an independent predictive factor of unfavorable prognosis in HCC. Moreover, high KRTCAP2 protein expression was associated with a lower proportion of CD8+ T cells and CD68+ macrophages in the stroma region. There was also a lower proportion of CD8+ T cells in the tumor region with high KRTCAP2 protein expression. Specifically, KRTCAP2 expression showed an inverse relationship with programmed cell death ligand-1 in HCC. Analysis of immunophenoscore showed that the low KRTCAP2 expression group had a stronger ability to predict response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, KRTCAP2 had a significant prognostic value for HCC and was correlated with the immune microenvironment. Our findings suggest that KRTCAP2 is a prognostic marker for HCC patients with potential clinical implications for predicting immunotherapeutic responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Sun
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jiawen Shi
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Manyu Xu
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Tong Cheng
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Bing Lu
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhang
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jianfei Huang
- Department of Clinical Biobank, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China.
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Zhou Q, Chen L, Yang L, Zhou H, Chen Y, Guo Y. Integrated systemic analysis of FAM72A to identify its clinical relevance, biological function, and relationship to drug sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1046473. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1046473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe family with sequence similarity 72 member A (FAM72A) protein has been identified as an effector of multiple pathological processes in many cancers. The value of FAM72A in HCC remains largely unknown.MethodsData from TCGA-LIHC, ICGC-LIRI-JP, IMvigor210, cBioPortal, GeneMANIA, and TIMER were processed and visualized to explore the association between FAM72A and the prognosis, stemness phenotype, mutational burden, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity in HCC patients. Potential pathways were also revealed. Furthermore, we experimentally verified the results in vivo and in vitro using immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and CCK-8 assays.ResultsFirst, FAM72A mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in HCC. High FAM72A expression was independently associated with a poor prognosis. Experimental validation confirmed that FAM72A was remarkably overexpressed in HCC patients and mice. Moreover, FAM72A knockdown suppressed HCC cell proliferation. In addition, the frequency of TP53 mutations was significantly higher in the high FAM72A expression group. Subsequently, the enrichment analysis revealed that FAM72A was closely related to immune processes and mTOR pathways. Silencing FAM72A increased the expression levels of mTOR in HCC cell lines. The FAM72A-mTOR pathway was strongly associated with a poor prognosis for patients with HCC. Patients with high FAM72A expression levels might be more resistant to sorafenib. Furthermore, the expression of FAM72A and mTOR was significantly associated with the abundance of some tumor-infiltrating immune cells, especially CD4+ T cells. Finally, patients with high levels of FAM72A and mTOR were more sensitive to immunotherapy.ConclusionsFAM72A, a member of the FAM72 family, might be a prognostic and immunotherapeutic target for HCC patients.
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