1
|
Tsiverioti CA, Gottschlich A, Trefny M, Theurich S, Anders HJ, Kroiss M, Kobold S. Beyond CAR T cells: exploring alternative cell sources for CAR-like cellular therapies. Biol Chem 2024; 405:485-515. [PMID: 38766710 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0317] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has led to remarkable clinical outcomes in the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, challenges remain, such as limited infiltration into solid tumors, inadequate persistence, systemic toxicities, and manufacturing insufficiencies. The use of alternative cell sources for CAR-based therapies, such as natural killer cells (NK), macrophages (MΦ), invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells, γδT cells, neutrophils, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), has emerged as a promising avenue. By harnessing these cells' inherent cytotoxic mechanisms and incorporating CAR technology, common CAR-T cell-related limitations can be effectively mitigated. We herein present an overview of the tumoricidal mechanisms, CAR designs, and manufacturing processes of CAR-NK cells, CAR-MΦ, CAR-iNKT cells, CAR-γδT cells, CAR-neutrophils, and iPSC-derived CAR-cells, outlining the advantages, limitations, and potential solutions of these therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Adrian Gottschlich
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Lindwurmstr. 2a, 80337 Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninstr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Marcel Trefny
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Lindwurmstr. 2a, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastian Theurich
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninstr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336 Munich, Germany
- 74939 German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between DKFZ and University Hospital of the LMU , Marchioninstr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Cancer and Immunometabolism Research Group, 74939 Gene Center LMU , Feodor-Lynen Str. 25, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstr. 5, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Kroiss
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstr. 5, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str, 9780 Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 6, 9780 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kobold
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Lindwurmstr. 2a, 80337 Munich, Germany
- 74939 German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, A Partnership Between DKFZ and University Hospital of the LMU , Marchioninstr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Einheit für Klinische Pharmakologie (EKLiP), Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cui G, Abe S, Kato R, Ikuta K. Insights into the heterogeneity of iNKT cells: tissue-resident and circulating subsets shaped by local microenvironmental cues. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349184. [PMID: 38440725 PMCID: PMC10910067 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a distinct subpopulation of innate-like T lymphocytes. They are characterized by semi-invariant T cell receptors (TCRs) that recognize both self and foreign lipid antigens presented by CD1d, a non-polymorphic MHC class I-like molecule. iNKT cells play a critical role in stimulating innate and adaptive immune responses, providing an effective defense against infections and cancers, while also contributing to chronic inflammation. The functions of iNKT cells are specific to their location, ranging from lymphoid to non-lymphoid tissues, such as the thymus, lung, liver, intestine, and adipose tissue. This review aims to provide insights into the heterogeneity of development and function in iNKT cells. First, we will review the expression of master transcription factors that define subsets of iNKT cells and their production of effector molecules such as cytokines and granzymes. In this article, we describe the gene expression profiles contributing to the kinetics, distribution, and cytotoxicity of iNKT cells across different tissue types. We also review the impact of cytokine production in distinct immune microenvironments on iNKT cell heterogeneity, highlighting a recently identified circulating iNKT cell subset. Additionally, we explore the potential of exploiting iNKT cell heterogeneity to create potent immunotherapies for human cancers in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangwei Cui
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinya Abe
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryoma Kato
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichi Ikuta
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Virus Research, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sun W, Qiu F, Zheng J, Fang L, Qu J, Zhang S, Jiang N, Zhou J, Zeng X, Zhou J. CD57-positive CD8 + T cells define the response to anti-programmed cell death protein-1 immunotherapy in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:25. [PMID: 38297019 PMCID: PMC10830454 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00513-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have transformed the treatment landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, accurately identifying patients who will benefit from immunotherapy remains a challenge. This study aimed to discover potential biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response in NSCLC patients. Single-cell mass cytometry (CyTOF) was utilized to analyze immune cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from NSCLC patients before and 12 weeks after single-agent immunotherapy. The CyTOF findings were subsequently validated using flow cytometry and multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence in PBMCs and tumor tissues, respectively. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In the CyTOF cohort (n = 20), a high frequency of CD57+CD8+ T cells in PBMCs was associated with durable clinical benefit from immunotherapy in NSCLC patients (p = 0.034). This association was further confirmed in an independent cohort using flow cytometry (n = 27; p < 0.001), with a determined cutoff value of 12.85%. The cutoff value was subsequently validated in another independent cohort (AUC = 0.733). We also confirmed the CyTOF findings in pre-treatment formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues (n = 90; p < 0.001). RNA-seq analysis revealed 475 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CD57+CD8+ T cells and CD57-CD8+ T cells, with functional analysis identifying DEGs significantly enriched in immune-related signaling pathways. This study highlights CD57+CD8+ T cells as a promising biomarker for predicting immunotherapy success in NSCLC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Sun
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengqi Qiu
- Cancer Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liangjie Fang
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Qu
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shumeng Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianying Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jianya Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Aoki T, Motohashi S. Progress in Natural Killer T Cell-Based Immunotherapy for Cancer: Use of Allogeneic and Gene-Edited Cells. Crit Rev Oncog 2024; 29:1-9. [PMID: 38421710 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2023049526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Immune cell therapy has received attention in the clinical setting. However, current chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies require individualized manufacturing based on patient cells, resulting in high costs and long processing times. Allogeneic immune cell therapy, which involves the use of immune cells from other donors, is emerging as a promising alternative that offers multiple advantages, including off-the-shelf availability, standardized manufacturing, and potentially stronger effector functions. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a type of T cell that can be activated without being restricted by HLA, indicating their potential use in allogeneic cell immunotherapy. They exhibit cytotoxic activity against various cancer targets. However, their low frequency in blood limits their use in ex vivo amplification for treatment. This has led researchers to focus on allogeneic NKT cells as a potential treatment agent. In this study, we review the research on NKT cell-based immunotherapy and focus on the recent progress in clinical trials related to NKT cell-based immunotherapy worldwide. NKT cell-based therapy is not limited to specific cancer types and has been investigated in many ways worldwide over the past decade. Some clinical trials targeting NKT cells have shown promising results; however, the number of trials is low compared to those using T and natural killer cells. The use of allogeneic NKT cells may revolutionize the treatment of cancer and other diseases. However, further research and clinical trials are necessary to fully understand their efficacy, safety, and long-term benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Aoki
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Motohashi
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Das R. T Cell Receptor-Engaging Monoclonal Antibodies Mobilize the Anti-Tumor Functions of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells. Crit Rev Oncog 2024; 29:69-81. [PMID: 38421715 PMCID: PMC11062185 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2023049947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) are innate-type T lymphocytes that directly kill tumor cells or tumor-growth promoting immunosuppressive cells such astumor-associated macrophages. Additionally, iNKTs robustly transactivate the antitumor functions of T, B, natural killer, and dendritic cells as well as reinvigorate exhausted immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. As such, iNKTs make excellent candidates for inclusion in anti-cancer cellular therapies. However, to capitalize on the potential benefits of iNKT cell-based approaches, it is imperative that we develop new and clinically viable strategies to enhance their antitumor function. To that end, two novel monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that selectively bind to the human (NKTT320) or murine (NKT14m) invariant T cell receptor have been recently developed and characterized. Studies using purified human iNKTs (in vitro) and a model of non-human primate (in vivo) reveal that NKTT320 promotes swift, vigorous and sustained iNKT cell activation that is accompanied by robust production of inflammatory mediators and bystander immune cell activation. Furthermore, NKTT320 augments expression of cytotoxic markers and human iNKT cell degranulation. Similarly, NKT14m prompts dramatic murine iNKT cell activation and functional response both in vitro and in vivo. However, antitumor efficacy of a single dose of NKT14m injection in tumor-bearing mice is limited and tumor-model dependent. In contrast, combination treatment of NKT14m with either low dose interleukin (IL)-12 or the chemotherapeutic agent, cyclophosphamide results in a superior antitumor response in vivo. This is evident by activation of both iNKTs and other immune cells, prolonged survival of the tumor-challenged mice, and long-lasting immunity. Collectively, these recent studies justify further development of anti-iTCR mAbs that can be used alone or in conjunction with immunomodulatory agents to enhance iNKT cell antitumor immunity against various cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupali Das
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tognarelli EI, Gutiérrez-Vera C, Palacios PA, Pasten-Ferrada IA, Aguirre-Muñoz F, Cornejo DA, González PA, Carreño LJ. Natural Killer T Cell Diversity and Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5737. [PMID: 38136283 PMCID: PMC10742272 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs), a type of unconventional T cells, share features with NK cells and have an invariant T cell receptor (TCR), which recognizes lipid antigens loaded on CD1d molecules, a major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I)-like protein. This interaction produces the secretion of a wide array of cytokines by these cells, including interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin 4 (IL-4), allowing iNKTs to link innate with adaptive responses. Interestingly, molecules that bind CD1d have been identified that enable the modulation of these cells, highlighting their potential pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive capacities, as required in different clinical settings. In this review, we summarize key features of iNKTs and current understandings of modulatory α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) variants, a model iNKT cell activator that can shift the outcome of adaptive immune responses. Furthermore, we discuss advances in the development of strategies that modulate these cells to target pathologies that are considerable healthcare burdens. Finally, we recapitulate findings supporting a role for iNKTs in infectious diseases and tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo I. Tognarelli
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Cristián Gutiérrez-Vera
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Pablo A. Palacios
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Ignacio A. Pasten-Ferrada
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Fernanda Aguirre-Muñoz
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | - Daniel A. Cornejo
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Pablo A. González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Leandro J. Carreño
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Santiago 8330025, Chile; (E.I.T.); (C.G.-V.); (P.A.P.); (I.A.P.-F.); (F.A.-M.); (D.A.C.)
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang P, Zhang G, Wan X. Challenges and new technologies in adoptive cell therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:97. [PMID: 37596653 PMCID: PMC10439661 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01492-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapies (ACTs) have existed for decades. From the initial infusion of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes to the subsequent specific enhanced T cell receptor (TCR)-T and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies, many novel strategies for cancer treatment have been developed. Owing to its promising outcomes, CAR-T cell therapy has revolutionized the field of ACTs, particularly for hematologic malignancies. Despite these advances, CAR-T cell therapy still has limitations in both autologous and allogeneic settings, including practicality and toxicity issues. To overcome these challenges, researchers have focused on the application of CAR engineering technology to other types of immune cell engineering. Consequently, several new cell therapies based on CAR technology have been developed, including CAR-NK, CAR-macrophage, CAR-γδT, and CAR-NKT. In this review, we describe the development, advantages, and possible challenges of the aforementioned ACTs and discuss current strategies aimed at maximizing the therapeutic potential of ACTs. We also provide an overview of the various gene transduction strategies employed in immunotherapy given their importance in immune cell engineering. Furthermore, we discuss the possibility that strategies capable of creating a positive feedback immune circuit, as healthy immune systems do, could address the flaw of a single type of ACT, and thus serve as key players in future cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengchao Zhang
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Guizhong Zhang
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ligthart NAM, de Geus MAR, van de Plassche MAT, Torres García D, Isendoorn MME, Reinalda L, Ofman D, van Leeuwen T, van Kasteren SI. A Lysosome-Targeted Tetrazine for Organelle-Specific Click-to-Release Chemistry in Antigen Presenting Cells. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37269296 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c02139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Bioorthogonal deprotections are readily used to control biological function in a cell-specific manner. To further improve the spatial resolution of these reactions, we here present a lysosome-targeted tetrazine for an organelle-specific deprotection reaction. We show that trans-cyclooctene deprotection with this reagent can be used to control the biological activity of ligands for invariant natural killer T cells in the lysosome to shed light on the processing pathway in antigen presenting cells. We then use the lysosome-targeted tetrazine to show that long peptide antigens used for CD8+ T cell activation do not pass through this organelle, suggesting a role for the earlier endosomal compartments for their processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina A M Ligthart
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mark A R de Geus
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Merel A T van de Plassche
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Diana Torres García
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein M E Isendoorn
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Luuk Reinalda
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Daniëlle Ofman
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tyrza van Leeuwen
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sander I van Kasteren
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry and The Institute for Chemical Immunology, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang J, Cheng X, Jin Y, Xia B, Qin R, Zhang W, Hu H, Mao X, Zhou L, Yan J, Zhang X, Xu J. Safety and Clinical Response to Combined Immunotherapy with Autologous iNKT Cells and PD-1 +CD8 + T Cells in Patients Failing First-line Chemotherapy in Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:991-1003. [PMID: 37377605 PMCID: PMC10246506 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Purpose A phase I clinical trial was conducted to assess the safety and feasibility of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells combined with PD-1+CD8+ T cells in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and failing the first-line chemotherapy. Patients and Methods Fifteen eligible patients were enrolled, of whom 9 received at least three cycles of treatment each. In total, 59 courses were administered. Results Fever was the most common adverse event, peaking at about 2-4 hours after cell infusion and reverting within 24 hours without treatment in all patients. Influenza-like reactions such as headache, myalgia, and arthralgia were also observed in 4, 4, and 3 of the patients, respectively. In addition, vomiting and dizziness were prevalent, while abdominal pain, chest pain, rash, and stuffy nose were rare adverse events, each reported in 1 patient. Side effects above grade 2 were not observed. Two patients achieved partial regression, while 1 patient experienced disease progression assessed 4 weeks after the third course. Three patients are still alive at the time of writing and have progression-free survival longer than 12 months. The overall survival time has been extended to over 12 months in 6 of the 9 patients. No constant changes of CD4+ T, B, and NK cells were recorded except for elevated CD8+ T cells after the first course. Conclusions The combination of autologous iNKT cells and PD-1+CD8+ T cells was a safe therapeutic strategy against advanced pancreatic cancer. The patients exhibited a potentially promising prolonged survival time. Further study appears warranted to evaluate the efficacy of these combined cell infusions in pancreatic cancer. Trial registration This trial was included in the clinical trial which was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID:NCT03093688) on March 15, 2017. Significance There is an unmet need for novel, more effective, and tolerable therapies for pancreatic cancer. Here we present a phase I clinical trial employing iNKT cells combined with PD-1+CD8+ T cells in 9 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and failing the first-line chemotherapy. The combined immunotherapy was shown to be feasible in the enrolled patients with limited side effects and optimistic clinical responses, which could bring opportunity of therapeutic advancement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobo Cheng
- Clinical Research Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yanling Jin
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Bili Xia
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ran Qin
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Huiliang Hu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoting Mao
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Liting Zhou
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jia Yan
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, P.R. China
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jianqing Xu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, P.R. China
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Aoki T, Motohashi S, Koseki H. Regeneration of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells: application of iPSC technology for iNKT cell-targeted tumor immunotherapy. Inflamm Regen 2023; 43:27. [PMID: 37170375 PMCID: PMC10176773 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-023-00275-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a subset of innate-like T cells restricted by a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-like molecule, CD1d. iNKT cells express an invariant T cell receptor (TCR) encoded by Vα14 Jα18 in mice and Vα24 Jα18 in humans and are activated by recognizing glycolipid antigens, such as α-galactosylceramide (αGalCer), presented by CD1d. iNKT cells exhibit anti-tumor activity via their NK-like cytotoxicity and adjuvant activity. Although iNKT cell-targeted immunotherapy is a conceptually promising approach, we still found a technical hurdle for its clinical implementation which is mainly due to the low frequency of iNKT cells, particularly in humans. To compensate for this, we proposed to generate adequate numbers of clinically competent NKT cells from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for cancer immunotherapy. Toward this goal, we first obtained the proof of concept (POC) for this approach in mice. We developed a technology to differentiate iPSCs into iNKT cells (iPSC-iNKT cells) and found iPSC-iNKT cells efficiently rejected a syngeneic experimental thymoma by inducing antigen-specific CD8 T cells. After achieving the POC in mice, we developed human iPSC-iNKT cells, which had a high correlation in their gene expression profiles with parental iNKT cells. Human iPSC-iNKT cells also exhibited anti-tumor activity and adjuvant activity for human NK cells in vivo. Based on this supporting evidence for the anti-tumor activity of human iPSC-iNKT cells, we began to generate good manufacturing practice (GMP)-grade iPSC-iNKT cells. As of now, the first-in-human clinical trial of iPSC-iNKT cell therapy is ongoing as a single-agent, dose-escalation study for patients with advanced head and neck cancer. Demonstration of the safety of iPSC-iNKT cell therapy may allow us to improve the strategy by further reinforcing the therapeutic activity of iPSC-iNKT, cells either by gene-editing or combinatorial use with other immune cell products such as dendritic cells. Sixteen years after the establishment of the iPSC technology, we are reaching the first checkpoint to evaluate the clinical efficacy of iPSC-derived immune cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Aoki
- Laboratory for Developmental Genetics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan.
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Shinichiro Motohashi
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- Laboratory for Developmental Genetics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ruf B, Greten TF, Korangy F. Innate lymphoid cells and innate-like T cells in cancer - at the crossroads of innate and adaptive immunity. Nat Rev Cancer 2023; 23:351-371. [PMID: 37081117 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00562-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies targeting conventional T cells have revolutionized systemic treatment for many cancers, yet only a subset of patients benefit from these approaches. A better understanding of the complex immune microenvironment of tumours is needed to design the next generation of immunotherapeutics. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and innate-like T cells (ILTCs) are abundant, tissue-resident lymphocytes that have recently been shown to have critical roles in many types of cancers. ILCs and ILTCs rapidly respond to changes in their surrounding environment and act as the first responders to bridge innate and adaptive immunity. This places ILCs and ILTCs as pivotal orchestrators of the final antitumour immune response. In this Review, we outline hallmarks of ILCs and ILTCs and discuss their emerging role in antitumour immunity, as well as the pathophysiological adaptations leading to their pro-tumorigenic function. We explore the pleiotropic, in parts redundant and sometimes opposing, mechanisms that underlie the delicate interplay between the different subsets of ILCs and ILTCs. Finally, we highlight their role in amplifying and complementing conventional T cell functions and summarize immunotherapeutic strategies for targeting ILCs and ILTCs in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ruf
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NCI CCR Liver Cancer Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Firouzeh Korangy
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Courtney AN, Tian G, Metelitsa LS. Natural killer T cells and other innate-like T lymphocytes as emerging platforms for allogeneic cancer cell therapy. Blood 2023; 141:869-876. [PMID: 36347021 PMCID: PMC10023720 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022016201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have achieved major clinical success in patients with hematologic malignancies. However, these treatments remain largely ineffective for solid cancers and require significant time and resources to be manufactured in an autologous setting. Developing alternative immune effector cells as cancer immunotherapy agents that can be employed in allogeneic settings is crucial for the advancement of cell therapy. Unlike T cells, Vα24-invariant natural killer T cells (NKTs) are not alloreactive and can therefore be generated from allogeneic donors for rapid infusion into numerous patients without the risk of graft-versus-host disease. Additionally, NKT cells demonstrate inherent advantages over T-cell products, including the ability to traffic to tumor tissues, target tumor-associated macrophages, transactivate NK cells, and cross-prime tumor-specific CD8 T cells. Both unmodified NKTs, which specifically recognize CD1d-bound glycolipid antigens expressed by certain types of tumors, and CAR-redirected NKTs are being developed as the next generation of allogeneic cell therapy products. In this review, we describe studies on the biology of NKTs and other types of innate-like T cells and summarize the clinical experiences of unmodified and CAR-redirected NKTs, including recent interim reports on allogeneic NKTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy N. Courtney
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Advanced Innate Cell Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Gengwen Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Advanced Innate Cell Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Leonid S. Metelitsa
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Advanced Innate Cell Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Role of NKT cells in cancer immunotherapy-from bench to bed. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 40:29. [PMID: 36460881 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a specific T cell subset known to express the αβ-T cell receptor (TCR) for antigens identification and express typical NK cell specifications, such as surface expression of CD56 and CD16 markers as well as production of granzyme. Human NKT cells are divided into two subgroups based on their cytokine receptor and TCR repertoire. Both of them are CD1-restricted and recognize lipid antigens presented by CD1d molecules. Studies have demonstrated that these cells are essential in defense against malignancies. These cells secret proinflammatory and regulatory cytokines that stimulate or suppress immune system responses. In several murine tumor models, activation of type I NKT cells induces tumor rejection and inhibits metastasis's spread. However, type II NKT cells are associated with an inhibitory and regulatory function during tumor immune responses. Variant NKT cells may suppress tumor immunity via different mechanisms that require cross-talk with other immune-regulatory cells. NKT-like cells display high tumor-killing abilities against many tumor cells. In the recent decade, different studies have been performed based on the application of NKT-based immunotherapy for cancer therapy. Moreover, manipulation of NKT cells through administering autologous dendritic cell (DC) loaded with α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) and direct α-GalCer injection has also been tested. In this review, we described different subtypes of NKT cells, their function in the anti-tumor immune responses, and the application of NKT cells in cancer immunotherapy from bench to bed.
Collapse
|
14
|
Delfanti G, Cortesi F, Perini A, Antonini G, Azzimonti L, de Lalla C, Garavaglia C, Squadrito ML, Fedeli M, Consonni M, Sesana S, Re F, Shen H, Dellabona P, Casorati G. TCR-engineered iNKT cells induce robust antitumor response by dual targeting cancer and suppressive myeloid cells. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabn6563. [PMID: 35984893 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abn6563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy with T cells engineered with tumor-specific T cell receptors (TCRs) holds promise for cancer treatment. However, suppressive cues generated in the tumor microenvironment (TME) can hinder the efficacy of these therapies, prompting the search for strategies to overcome these detrimental conditions and improve cellular therapeutic approaches. CD1d-restricted invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells actively participate in tumor immunosurveillance by restricting suppressive myeloid populations in the TME. Here, we showed that harnessing iNKT cells with a second TCR specific for a tumor-associated peptide generated bispecific effectors for CD1d- and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted antigens in vitro. Upon in vivo transfer, TCR-engineered iNKT (TCR-iNKT) cells showed the highest efficacy in restraining the progression of multiple tumors that expressed the cognate antigen compared with nontransduced iNKT cells or CD8+ T cells engineered with the same TCR. TCR-iNKT cells achieved robust cancer control by simultaneously modulating intratumoral suppressive myeloid populations and killing malignant cells. This dual antitumor function was further enhanced when the iNKT cell agonist α-galactosyl ceramide (α-GalCer) was administered as a therapeutic booster through a platform that ensured controlled delivery at the tumor site, named multistage vector (MSV). These preclinical results support the combination of tumor-redirected TCR-iNKT cells and local α-GalCer boosting as a potential therapy for patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Delfanti
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Filippo Cortesi
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Alessandra Perini
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Gaia Antonini
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | | | - Claudia de Lalla
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Claudio Garavaglia
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Mario L Squadrito
- Targeted Cancer Gene Therapy Unit, San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Maya Fedeli
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Michela Consonni
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Silvia Sesana
- BioNanoMedicine Center NANOMIB, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20854 Monza, Italy
| | - Francesca Re
- BioNanoMedicine Center NANOMIB, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20854 Monza, Italy
| | - Haifa Shen
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paolo Dellabona
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Giulia Casorati
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li YR, Zhou Y, Wilson M, Kramer A, Hon R, Zhu Y, Fang Y, Yang L. Tumor-Localized Administration of α-GalCer to Recruit Invariant Natural Killer T Cells and Enhance Their Antitumor Activity against Solid Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7547. [PMID: 35886891 PMCID: PMC9317565 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells have the capacity to mount potent anti-tumor reactivity and have therefore become a focus in the development of cell-based immunotherapy. iNKT cells attack tumor cells using multiple mechanisms with a high efficacy; however, their clinical application has been limited because of their low numbers in cancer patients and difficulties in infiltrating solid tumors. In this study, we aimed to overcome these critical limitations by using α-GalCer, a synthetic glycolipid ligand specifically activating iNKT cells, to recruit iNKT to solid tumors. By adoptively transferring human iNKT cells into tumor-bearing humanized NSG mice and administering a single dose of tumor-localized α-GalCer, we demonstrated the rapid recruitment of human iNKT cells into solid tumors in as little as one day and a significantly enhanced tumor killing ability. Using firefly luciferase-labeled iNKT cells, we monitored the tissue biodistribution and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) of human iNKT cells in tumor-bearing NSG mice. Collectively, these preclinical studies demonstrate the promise of an αGC-driven iNKT cell-based immunotherapy to target solid tumors with higher efficacy and precision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ruide Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Matthew Wilson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Adam Kramer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Ryan Hon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yichen Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Ying Fang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.-R.L.); (Y.Z.); (M.W.); (A.K.); (R.H.); (Y.Z.); (Y.F.)
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Delfanti G, Dellabona P, Casorati G, Fedeli M. Adoptive Immunotherapy With Engineered iNKT Cells to Target Cancer Cells and the Suppressive Microenvironment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:897750. [PMID: 35615083 PMCID: PMC9125179 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.897750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells are T lymphocytes expressing a conserved semi-invariant TCR specific for lipid antigens (Ags) restricted for the monomorphic MHC class I-related molecule CD1d. iNKT cells infiltrate mouse and human tumors and play an important role in the immune surveillance against solid and hematological malignancies. Because of unique functional features, they are attractive platforms for adoptive cells immunotherapy of cancer compared to conventional T cells. iNKT cells can directly kill CD1d-expressing cancer cells, but also restrict immunosuppressive myelomonocytic populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME) via CD1d-cognate recognition, promoting anti-tumor responses irrespective of the CD1d expression by cancer cells. Moreover, iNKT cells can be adoptively transferred across MHC barriers without risk of alloreaction because CD1d molecules are identical in all individuals, in addition to their ability to suppress graft vs. host disease (GvHD) without impairing the anti-tumor responses. Within this functional framework, iNKT cells are successfully engineered to acquire a second antigen-specificity by expressing recombinant TCRs or Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) specific for tumor-associated antigens, enabling the direct targeting of antigen-expressing cancer cells, while maintaining their CD1d-dependent functions. These new evidences support the exploitation of iNKT cells for donor unrestricted, and possibly off the shelf, adoptive cell therapies enabling the concurrent targeting of cancer cells and suppressive microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Delfanti
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gloria Delfanti
| | - Paolo Dellabona
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Casorati
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Giulia Casorati
| | - Maya Fedeli
- Experimental Immunology Unit, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Maya Fedeli
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cheng X, Wang J, Qiu C, Jin Y, Xia B, Qin R, Hu H, Yan J, Zhang X, Xu J. Feasibility of iNKT cell and PD-1+CD8+ T cell-based immunotherapy in patients with lung adenocarcinoma: Preliminary results of a phase I/II clinical trial. Clin Immunol 2022; 238:108992. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.108992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
18
|
Liu Y, Wang G, Chai D, Dang Y, Zheng J, Li H. iNKT: A new avenue for CAR-based cancer immunotherapy. Transl Oncol 2022; 17:101342. [PMID: 35063813 PMCID: PMC8784340 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell is a T lymphocyte-based immunotherapy, which achieves great successes in treating blood malignancies and provides new hope to cue advanced cancer patients. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a kind of special T lymphocytes characterized by expressing invariant TCR of Vα24Vβ11 to recognize CD1d-presented glycolipid antigens, which bridge innate and adaptive immune responses. iNKT cells themselves show strong anti-tumor effect in tumor models via CD1d-mediated killing of CD1d-positive tumor cells and immunosuppressive TAMs and MDSCs, and are closely related to the prognosis of cancer patients. iNKT cells are not restricted to polymorphic human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and can prevent Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD), which makes it to be an ideal CAR vector for allogeneic therapy. Although CAR-iNKT was developed and verified by several different teams and attracts more and more attentions, many obstacles are still needed to be resolved before obtaining CAR-iNKT therapeutics. In this review, we summarized the current status of clinical application of iNKT cells and the latest achievements of CAR-iNKT cells, which provides new insight in CAR-iNKT development and usages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Liu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Gang Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Dafei Chai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Dang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China.
| | - Huizhong Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bond NG, Fahlberg MD, Yu S, Rout N, Tran D, Fitzpatrick-Schmidt T, Sprehe LM, Scheef EA, Mudd JC, Schaub R, Kaur A. Immunomodulatory potential of in vivo natural killer T (NKT) activation by NKTT320 in Mauritian-origin cynomolgus macaques. iScience 2022; 25:103889. [PMID: 35243248 PMCID: PMC8866157 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T-lymphocytes (iNKT) are unique immunomodulatory innate T cells with an invariant TCRα recognizing glycolipids presented on MHC class-I-like CD1d molecules. Activated iNKT rapidly secrete pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines, potentiate immunity, and modulate inflammation. Here, we report the effects of in vivo iNKT activation in Mauritian-origin cynomolgus macaques by a humanized monoclonal antibody, NKTT320, that binds to the invariant region of the iNKT TCR. NKTT320 led to rapid iNKT activation, increased polyfunctionality, and elevation of multiple plasma analytes within 24 hours. Flow cytometry and RNA-Seq confirmed downstream activation of multiple immune subsets, enrichment of JAK/STAT and PI3K/AKT pathway genes, and upregulation of inflammation-modulating genes. NKTT320 also increased iNKT frequency in adipose tissue and did not cause iNKT anergy. Our data indicate that NKTT320 has a sustained effect on in vivo iNKT activation, potentiation of innate and adaptive immunity, and resolution of inflammation, which supports its future use as an immunotherapeutic. NKTT320 rapidly activates iNKT in vivo, modulating downstream immune function In vivo NKTT320 treatment modulates pro- and anti-inflammatory genes NKTT320 treatment results in activation of innate and adaptive immune subsets NKTT320 has promise as an immunotherapeutic with translational potential
Collapse
|
20
|
Li YR, Zhou Y, Kim YJ, Zhu Y, Ma F, Yu J, Wang YC, Chen X, Li Z, Zeng S, Wang X, Lee D, Ku J, Tsao T, Hardoy C, Huang J, Cheng D, Montel-Hagen A, Seet CS, Crooks GM, Larson SM, Sasine JP, Wang X, Pellegrini M, Ribas A, Kohn DB, Witte O, Wang P, Yang L. Development of allogeneic HSC-engineered iNKT cells for off-the-shelf cancer immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100449. [PMID: 34841295 PMCID: PMC8607011 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based immunotherapy has become the new-generation cancer medicine, and "off-the-shelf" cell products that can be manufactured at large scale and distributed readily to treat patients are necessary. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are ideal cell carriers for developing allogeneic cell therapy because they are powerful immune cells targeting cancers without graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) risk. However, healthy donor blood contains extremely low numbers of endogenous iNKT cells. Here, by combining hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) gene engineering and in vitro differentiation, we generate human allogeneic HSC-engineered iNKT (AlloHSC-iNKT) cells at high yield and purity; these cells closely resemble endogenous iNKT cells, effectively target tumor cells using multiple mechanisms, and exhibit high safety and low immunogenicity. These cells can be further engineered with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) to enhance tumor targeting or/and gene edited to ablate surface human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules and further reduce immunogenicity. Collectively, these preclinical studies demonstrate the feasibility and cancer therapy potential of AlloHSC-iNKT cell products and lay a foundation for their translational and clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ruide Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yu Jeong Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yanni Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Feiyang Ma
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jiaji Yu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yu-Chen Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xianhui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Samuel Zeng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Derek Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Josh Ku
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tasha Tsao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christian Hardoy
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Donghui Cheng
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Amélie Montel-Hagen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christopher S. Seet
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gay M. Crooks
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sarah M. Larson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Joshua P. Sasine
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Antoni Ribas
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Donald B. Kohn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Owen Witte
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Pin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Companioni O, Mir C, Garcia-Mayea Y, LLeonart ME. Targeting Sphingolipids for Cancer Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:745092. [PMID: 34737957 PMCID: PMC8560795 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.745092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are an extensive class of lipids with different functions in the cell, ranging from proliferation to cell death. Sphingolipids are modified in multiple cancers and are responsible for tumor proliferation, progression, and metastasis. Several inhibitors or activators of sphingolipid signaling, such as fenretinide, safingol, ABC294640, ceramide nanoliposomes (CNLs), SKI-II, α-galactosylceramide, fingolimod, and sonepcizumab, have been described. The objective of this review was to analyze the results from preclinical and clinical trials of these drugs for the treatment of cancer. Sphingolipid-targeting drugs have been tested alone or in combination with chemotherapy, exhibiting antitumor activity alone and in synergism with chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. As a consequence of treatments, the most frequent mechanism of cell death is apoptosis, followed by autophagy. Aslthough all these drugs have produced good results in preclinical studies of multiple cancers, the outcomes of clinical trials have not been similar. The most effective drugs are fenretinide and α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). In contrast, minor adverse effects restricted to a few subjects and hepatic toxicity have been observed in clinical trials of ABC294640 and safingol, respectively. In the case of CNLs, SKI-II, fingolimod and sonepcizumab there are some limitations and absence of enough clinical studies to demonstrate a benefit. The effectiveness or lack of a major therapeutic effect of sphingolipid modulation by some drugs as a cancer therapy and other aspects related to their mechanism of action are discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osmel Companioni
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Mir
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoelsis Garcia-Mayea
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Matilde E LLeonart
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Network Center in Oncology, CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Nelson A, Lukacs JD, Johnston B. The Current Landscape of NKT Cell Immunotherapy and the Hills Ahead. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205174. [PMID: 34680322 PMCID: PMC8533824 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a subset of lipid-reactive T cells that enhance anti-tumor immunity. While preclinical studies have shown NKT cell immunotherapy to be safe and effective, clinical studies lack predictable therapeutic efficacy and no approved treatments exist. In this review, we outline the current strategies, challenges, and outlook for NKT cell immunotherapy. Abstract NKT cells are a specialized subset of lipid-reactive T lymphocytes that play direct and indirect roles in immunosurveillance and anti-tumor immunity. Preclinical studies have shown that NKT cell activation via delivery of exogenous glycolipids elicits a significant anti-tumor immune response. Furthermore, infiltration of NKT cells is associated with a good prognosis in several cancers. In this review, we aim to summarize the role of NKT cells in cancer as well as the current strategies and status of NKT cell immunotherapy. This review also examines challenges and future directions for improving the therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (A.N.); (J.D.L.)
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Jordan D. Lukacs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (A.N.); (J.D.L.)
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Brent Johnston
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (A.N.); (J.D.L.)
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Toyoda T, Kamata T, Tanaka K, Ihara F, Takami M, Suzuki H, Nakajima T, Ikeuchi T, Kawasaki Y, Hanaoka H, Nakayama T, Yoshino I, Motohashi S. Phase II study of α-galactosylceramide-pulsed antigen-presenting cells in patients with advanced or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2019-000316. [PMID: 32188702 PMCID: PMC7078938 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2019-000316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells produce copious amounts of cytokines in response to specific glycolipid antigens such as α-galactosylceramide (αGalCer) presented by CD1d-expressing antigen-presenting cells (APCs), thus orchestrating other immune cells to fight tumors. Because of their ability to induce strong antitumor responses activated by αGalCer, iNKT cells have been studied for their application in cancer immunotherapy. In our previous phase I/II trial in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who had completed the standard treatment, we showed a relatively long median survival time without severe treatment-related adverse events. Based on these results, we performed a phase II trial to evaluate clinical responses, safety profiles and immune responses as a second-line treatment for advanced NSCLC. Methods Patients with advanced or recurrent NSCLC refractory to first-line chemotherapy were eligible. αGalCer-pulsed APCs were intravenously administered four times. Overall survival time was evaluated as the primary endpoint. The safety profile and immune responses after APC injection were also monitored. This study was an open label, single-arm, phase II clinical trial performed at Chiba University Hospital, Japan. Results Thirty-five patients were enrolled in this study, of which 32 (91.4%) completed the trial. No severe adverse events related to the treatment were observed. The estimated median survival time of the 35 cases was 21.9 months (95% CI, 14.8 to 26.0). One case (2.9%) showed a partial response, 14 cases (40.0%) remained as stable disease, and 19 cases (54.3%) were evaluated as progressive disease. The geometric mean number of iNKT cells in all cases was significantly decreased and the mean numbers of natural killer (NK) cells, interferon-γ-producing cells in response to αGalCer, and effector CD8+ T cells were significantly increased after the administration of αGalCer-pulsed APCs. Conclusions The intravenous administration of αGalCer-pulsed APCs was well-tolerated and was accompanied by prolonged overall survival. These results are encouraging and warrant further evaluation in a randomized phase III trial to demonstrate the survival benefit of this immunotherapy. Trial registration number UMIN000007321.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahide Toyoda
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshiko Kamata
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Tanaka
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Fumie Ihara
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mariko Takami
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hidemi Suzuki
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nakajima
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ikeuchi
- Center for Advanced Medicine, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yohei Kawasaki
- Clinical Research Center, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hideki Hanaoka
- Clinical Research Center, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ichiro Yoshino
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Motohashi
- Department of Medical Immnunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang DK, Zuo Q, He QY, Li B. Targeted Immunotherapies in Gastrointestinal Cancer: From Molecular Mechanisms to Implications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:705999. [PMID: 34447376 PMCID: PMC8383067 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.705999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality and remains a major challenge for cancer treatment. Despite the combined administration of modern surgical techniques and chemoradiotherapy (CRT), the overall 5-year survival rate of gastrointestinal cancer patients in advanced stage disease is less than 15%, due to rapid disease progression, metastasis, and CRT resistance. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying cancer progression and optimized treatment strategies for gastrointestinal cancer are urgently needed. With increasing evidence highlighting the protective role of immune responses in cancer initiation and progression, immunotherapy has become a hot research topic in the integrative management of gastrointestinal cancer. Here, an overview of the molecular understanding of colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer and gastric cancer is provided. Subsequently, recently developed immunotherapy strategies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, tumor vaccines and therapies targeting other immune cells, have been described. Finally, the underlying mechanisms, fundamental research and clinical trials of each agent are discussed. Overall, this review summarizes recent advances and future directions for immunotherapy for patients with gastrointestinal malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bin Li
- Ministry of Education (MOE), Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory of Functional Protein Research of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Khurana P, Burudpakdee C, Grupp SA, Beier UH, Barrett DM, Bassiri H. Distinct Bioenergetic Features of Human Invariant Natural Killer T Cells Enable Retained Functions in Nutrient-Deprived States. Front Immunol 2021; 12:700374. [PMID: 34434191 PMCID: PMC8380770 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.700374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells comprise a unique subset of lymphocytes that are primed for activation and possess innate NK-like functional features. Currently, iNKT cell-based immunotherapies remain in early clinical stages, and little is known about the ability of these cells to survive and retain effector functions within the solid tumor microenvironment (TME) long-term. In conventional T cells (TCONV), cellular metabolism is linked to effector functions and their ability to adapt to the nutrient-poor TME. In contrast, the bioenergetic requirements of iNKT cells - particularly those of human iNKT cells - at baseline and upon stimulation are not well understood; neither is how these requirements affect effector functions such as production of cytokines and cytolytic proteins. We find that unlike TCONV, human iNKT cells are not dependent upon glucose or glutamine for these effector functions upon stimulation with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28. Additionally, transcriptional profiling revealed that stimulated human iNKT cells are less glycolytic than TCONV and display higher expression of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway genes. Furthermore, stimulated iNKT cells displayed higher mitochondrial mass and membrane potential relative to TCONV. Real-time Seahorse metabolic flux analysis revealed that stimulated human iNKT cells utilize fatty acids as substrates for oxidation more than stimulated TCONV. Together, our data suggest that human iNKT cells possess different bioenergetic requirements from TCONV and display a more oxidative metabolic program relative to effector TCONV. Importantly, iNKT cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies could co-opt such unique features of iNKT cells to improve their efficacy and longevity of anti-tumor responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Khurana
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Chakkapong Burudpakdee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Stephan A. Grupp
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Cell and Therapy Transplant Section, Division of Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ulf H. Beier
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Janssen Research and Development, Spring House, PA, United States
| | | | - Hamid Bassiri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Gao Y, Guo J, Bao X, Xiong F, Ma Y, Tan B, Yu L, Zhao Y, Lu J. Adoptive Transfer of Autologous Invariant Natural Killer T Cells as Immunotherapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Phase I Clinical Trial. Oncologist 2021; 26:e1919-e1930. [PMID: 34255901 PMCID: PMC8571770 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lessons Learned Administration of autologous invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells was safe and well‐tolerated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B/C). Expanded iNKT cells produced T‐helper 1–like responses with possible antitumor activity. No severe adverse events were observed in any of the enrolled patients, including one patient who received 1010 in vitro–expanded autologous iNKT cells as a single infusion.
Background Invariant natural killer T cells co‐express T‐cell antigen receptor and natural killer (NK) cell receptors. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells exhibit antitumor activity, but their numbers and functions are impaired in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The adoptive transfer of iNKT cells might treat advanced HCC. Methods This phase I study (NCT03175679) enrolled 10 patients with HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer [BCLC] stage B/C) at Beijing YouAn Hospital (April 2017 to May 2018). iNKT cells isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were expanded and alpha‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer)–pulsed. Dosage escalated from 3 × 107 to 6 × 107 to 9 × 107 cells/m2 (3+3 design). An exploratory dose trial (1 × 1010 cells/m2) was conducted in one patient. Results Expanded iNKT cells produced greater quantities of T‐helper 1 (Th1) cytokines (e.g., interferon‐gamma, perforin, and granzyme B) but less interleukin‐4 than nonexpanded iNKT cells. Circulating numbers of iNKT cells and activated NK cells were increased after iNKT cell infusion. Most treatment‐related adverse events were grade 1–2, and three grade 3 adverse events were reported; all resolved without treatment. Four patients were progression‐free at 5.5, 6, 7, and 11 months after therapy, and one patient was alive and without tumor recurrence at the last follow‐up. Five patients died at 1.5 to 11 months after treatment. Conclusion Autologous iNKT cell treatment is safe and well‐tolerated. Expanded iNKT cells produce Th1‐like responses with possible antitumor activity. The antitumor effects of iNKT cell infusion in patients with advanced HCC merit further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Gao
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Guo
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuli Bao
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Xiong
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanpin Ma
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingqin Tan
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lele Yu
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Lu
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ingram Z, Madan S, Merchant J, Carter Z, Gordon Z, Carey G, Webb TJ. Targeting Natural Killer T Cells in Solid Malignancies. Cells 2021; 10:1329. [PMID: 34072042 PMCID: PMC8227159 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a unique subset of lymphocytes that recognize lipid antigens in the context of the non-classical class I MHC molecule, CD1d, and serve as a link between the innate and adaptive immune system through their expeditious release of cytokines. Whereas NKT have well-established roles in mitigating a number of human diseases, herein, we focus on their role in cancer. NKT cells have been shown to directly and indirectly mediate anti-tumor immunity and manipulating their effector functions can have therapeutic significances in treatment of cancer. In this review, we highlight several therapeutic strategies that have been used to harness the effector functions of NKT cells to target different types of solid tumors. We also discuss several barriers to the successful utilization of NKT cells and summarize effective strategies being developed to harness the unique strengths of this potent population of T cells. Collectively, studies investigating the therapeutic potential of NKT cells serve not only to advance our understanding of this powerful immune cell subset, but also pave the way for future treatments focused on the modulation of NKT cell responses to enhance cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Tonya J. Webb
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (Z.I.); (S.M.); (J.M.); (Z.C.); (Z.G.); (G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yuan X, Yi M, Zhang W, Xu L, Chu Q, Luo S, Wu K. The biology of combination immunotherapy in recurrent metastatic head and neck cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 136:106002. [PMID: 33962022 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2021.106002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical data suggest that head and neck cancer is an intrinsically immunosuppressive disease with abnormal inflammatory components in the tumor microenvironment. The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are monoclonal antibodies capable of inhibiting immune suppressive signals to prime anticancer immunity, has revolutionized the therapeutic landscape in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer. However, patients with head and neck cancer present primary resistance to immunotherapy. Many ongoing trials include combinations of immunotherapy with different therapeutic interventions, aiming to improve response rates and overall survival. As novel therapy strategies are leveraged, the significance of immunotherapy in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer continues to be revealed. This review aims to summarize combinational immunotherapy in head and neck cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xun Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Linping Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Qian Chu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Suxia Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Cellular metabolism is critical for generating energy and macromolecules for cell growth and survival. In recent years, the importance of metabolism in mediating T cell differentiation, proliferation, and function has been a hot topic of investigation. However, very little is known about metabolic regulation in invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells. In this viewpoint, we will discuss what is currently known about immunometabolism in iNKT cells and how these findings relate to CD4 T cells.
Collapse
|
30
|
T-Cell Dysfunction as a Limitation of Adoptive Immunotherapy: Current Concepts and Mitigation Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040598. [PMID: 33546277 PMCID: PMC7913380 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary T cells are immune cells that can be used to target infections or cancers. Adoptive T-cell immunotherapy leverages these properties and/or confers new features to T cells through ex vivo manipulations prior to their use in patients. However, as a “living drug,” the function of these cells can be hampered by several built-in physiological constraints and external factors that limit their efficacy. Manipulating T cells ex vivo can impart dysfunctional features to T cells through repeated stimulations and expansion, but it also offers many opportunities to improve the therapeutic potential of these cells, including emerging interventions to prevent or reverse T-cell dysfunction developing ex vivo or after transfer in patients. This review outlines the various forms of T-cell dysfunction, emphasizes how it affects various types of T-cell immunotherapy approaches, and describes current and anticipated strategies to limit T-cell dysfunction. Abstract Over the last decades, cellular immunotherapy has revealed its curative potential. However, inherent physiological characteristics of immune cells can limit the potency of this approach. Best defined in T cells, dysfunction associated with terminal differentiation, exhaustion, senescence, and activation-induced cell death, undermine adoptive cell therapies. In this review, we concentrate on how the multiple mechanisms that articulate the various forms of immune dysfunction impact cellular therapies primarily involving conventional T cells, but also other lymphoid subtypes. The repercussions of immune cell dysfunction across the full life cycle of cell therapy, from the source material, during manufacturing, and after adoptive transfer, are discussed, with an emphasis on strategies used during ex vivo manipulations to limit T-cell dysfunction. Applicable to cellular products prepared from native and unmodified immune cells, as well as genetically engineered therapeutics, the understanding and potential modulation of dysfunctional features are key to the development of improved cellular immunotherapies.
Collapse
|
31
|
Kharkwal SS, Johndrow CT, Veerapen N, Kharkwal H, Saavedra-Avila NA, Carreño LJ, Rothberg S, Zhang J, Garforth SJ, Jervis PJ, Zhang L, Donda A, Besra AK, Cox LR, Almo SC, Howell A, Evans EE, Zauderer M, Besra GS, Porcelli SA. Serial Stimulation of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells with Covalently Stabilized Bispecific T-cell Engagers Generates Antitumor Immunity While Avoiding Anergy. Cancer Res 2021; 81:1788-1801. [PMID: 33483371 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CD1d-restricted invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT cells) mediate strong antitumor immunity when stimulated by glycolipid agonists. However, attempts to develop effective iNKT cell agonists for clinical applications have been thwarted by potential problems with dose-limiting toxicity and by activation-induced iNKT cell anergy, which limits the efficacy of repeated administration. To overcome these issues, we developed a unique bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) based on covalent conjugates of soluble CD1d with photoreactive analogues of the glycolipid α-galactosylceramide. Here we characterize the in vivo activities of iNKT cell-specific BiTEs and assess their efficacy for cancer immunotherapy in mouse models using transplantable colorectal cancer or melanoma tumor lines engineered to express human Her2 as a tumor-associated antigen. Systemic administration of conjugated BiTEs stimulated multiple iNKT cell effector functions including cytokine release, secondary activation of NK cells, and induction of dendritic cell maturation and also initiated epitope spreading for tumor-specific CD8+ cytolytic T-cell responses. The antitumor effects of iNKT-cell activation with conjugated BiTEs were further enhanced by simultaneous checkpoint blockade with antibodies to CTLA-4, providing a potential approach for combination immunotherapy. Multiple injections of covalently stabilized iNKT cell-specific BiTEs activated iNKT cells without causing iNKT cell anergy or exhaustion, thus enabling repeated administration for effective and nontoxic cancer immunotherapy regimens. SIGNIFICANCE: Covalently stabilized conjugates that engage the antigen receptors of iNKT cells and target a tumor antigen activate potent antitumor immunity without induction of anergy or depletion of the responding iNKT cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shalu Sharma Kharkwal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Elstar Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher T Johndrow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Natacha Veerapen
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Himanshu Kharkwal
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Clinical Oncology, Montefiore Medical Centre, Bronx, New York
| | - Noemi A Saavedra-Avila
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Leandro J Carreño
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Samantha Rothberg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Jinghang Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Scott J Garforth
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Peter J Jervis
- Centre of Chemistry, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Lianjun Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Center for Systems Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Alena Donda
- Department of Oncology and Ludwig Center for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Amareeta K Besra
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Liam R Cox
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Gurdyal S Besra
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Steven A Porcelli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Grabowska J, Stolk DA, Nijen Twilhaar MK, Ambrosini M, Storm G, van der Vliet HJ, de Gruijl TD, van Kooyk Y, den Haan JM. Liposomal Nanovaccine Containing α-Galactosylceramide and Ganglioside GM3 Stimulates Robust CD8 + T Cell Responses via CD169 + Macrophages and cDC1. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9010056. [PMID: 33467048 PMCID: PMC7830461 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful anti-cancer vaccines aim to prime and reinvigorate cytotoxic T cells and should therefore comprise a potent antigen and adjuvant. Antigen targeting to splenic CD169+ macrophages was shown to induce robust CD8+ T cell responses via antigen transfer to cDC1. Interestingly, CD169+ macrophages can also activate type I natural killer T-cells (NKT). NKT activation via ligands such as α-galactosylceramide (αGC) serve as natural adjuvants through dendritic cell activation. Here, we incorporated ganglioside GM3 and αGC in ovalbumin (OVA) protein-containing liposomes to achieve both CD169+ targeting and superior DC activation. The systemic delivery of GM3-αGC-OVA liposomes resulted in specific uptake by splenic CD169+ macrophages, stimulated strong IFNγ production by NKT and NK cells and coincided with the maturation of cDC1 and significant IL-12 production. Strikingly, superior induction of OVA-specific CD8+ T cells was detected after immunization with GM3-αGC-OVA liposomes. CD8+ T cell activation, but not B cell activation, was dependent on CD169+ macrophages and cDC1, while activation of NKT and NK cells were partially mediated by cDC1. In summary, GM3-αGC antigen-containing liposomes are a potent vaccination platform that promotes the interaction between different immune cell populations, resulting in strong adaptive immunity and therefore emerge as a promising anti-cancer vaccination strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Grabowska
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
| | - Dorian A. Stolk
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
| | - Maarten K. Nijen Twilhaar
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
| | - Martino Ambrosini
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
| | - Gert Storm
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands;
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology, University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Hans J. van der Vliet
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (H.J.v.d.V.); (T.D.d.G.)
- Lava Therapeutics, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tanja D. de Gruijl
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (H.J.v.d.V.); (T.D.d.G.)
| | - Yvette van Kooyk
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
| | - Joke M.M. den Haan
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (D.A.S.); (M.K.N.T.); (M.A.); (Y.v.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-20-4448080
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ruf B, Heinrich B, Greten TF. Immunobiology and immunotherapy of HCC: spotlight on innate and innate-like immune cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:112-127. [PMID: 33235387 PMCID: PMC7852696 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-00572-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-based therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the systemic treatment of various cancer types. The therapeutic application of monoclonal antibodies targeting inhibitory pathways such as programmed cell death-1(PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and CTLA-4 to cells of the adaptive immune system has recently been shown to generate meaningful improvement in the clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, current immunotherapeutic approaches induce durable responses in only a subset of HCC patients. Since immunologic mechanisms such as chronic inflammation due to chronic viral hepatitis or alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease play a crucial role in the initiation, development, and progression of HCC, it is important to understand the underlying mechanisms shaping the unique tumor microenvironment of liver cancer. The liver is an immunologic organ with large populations of innate and innate-like immune cells and is exposed to bacterial, viral, and fungal antigens through the gut-liver axis. Here, we summarize and highlight the role of these cells in liver cancer and propose strategies to therapeutically target them. We also discuss current immunotherapeutic strategies in HCC and outline recent advances in our understanding of how the therapeutic potential of these agents might be enhanced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ruf
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Malignancies Branch, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
- NCI CCR Liver Cancer Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Trujillo-Ocampo A, Cho HW, Clowers M, Pareek S, Ruiz-Vazquez W, Lee SE, Im JS. IL-7 During Antigenic Stimulation Using Allogeneic Dendritic Cells Promotes Expansion of CD45RA -CD62L +CD4 + Invariant NKT Cells With Th-2 Biased Cytokine Production Profile. Front Immunol 2020; 11:567406. [PMID: 33329531 PMCID: PMC7728799 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.567406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are innate-like T lymphocytes cells that recognize glycolipid antigens associated with CD1d, non-classical antigen presenting proteins. They can drive either pro-inflammatory (Th-1) or anti-inflammatory (Th-2) immune microenvironment through the production of both Th-1 and Th-2 type cytokines upon activation, thus play a vital role in cancer, infection, and autoimmune diseases. Adoptive cell therapy using ex vivo expanded iNKT cells is a promising approach to enhance anti-tumor immunity or immunosuppression. However, overcoming phenotypic and functional heterogeneity and promoting in vivo persistency of iNKT cells remains to be a challenge. Here, we compared various methods for ex vivo expansion of human iNKT cells and assessed the quality of expansion, phenotype, and cytokine production profile of expanded iNKT cells. While a direct stimulation of iNKT cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells with agonist glycolipid led to the expansion of iNKT cells in varying degrees, stimulation of enriched iNKT cells by irradiated autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells or allogeneic dendritic cells resulted in consistent expansion of highly pure iNKT cells. Interestingly, the mode of antigenic stimulation influenced the dominant subtype of expanded iNKT cells. Further, we evaluated whether additional IL-7 or IL-15 during antigenic stimulation with allogeneic dendritic cells can improve the phenotypic heterogeneity and modify cytokine production profile of iNKT cells expanded from 18 consecutive donors. The presence of IL-7 or IL-15 during antigenic stimulation did not affect the fold of expansion or purity of expanded iNKT cells. However, IL-7, but not IL-15, led to a better expansion of CD4+ iNKT cells, enhanced Th-2 type cytokine production of CD4+ iNKT cells, and maintained the expansion of central memory (CD45RA-CD62L+) CD4+ iNKT cells. Our results suggest the addition of IL-7 during antigenic stimulation with allogeneic dendritic cells can promote the expansion of CD62L+Th-2+CD4+ human iNKT cells that can be used as novel immunotherapeutic to control excessive inflammation to treat various autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abel Trujillo-Ocampo
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hyun-Woo Cho
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Michael Clowers
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sumedha Pareek
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Wilfredo Ruiz-Vazquez
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sung-Eun Lee
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin S Im
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Inhibitors of Ceramide- and Sphingosine-Metabolizing Enzymes as Sensitizers in Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082062. [PMID: 32722626 PMCID: PMC7463798 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the treatment of advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including oral SCC, radiotherapy is a commonly performed therapeutic modality. The combined use of radiotherapy with chemotherapy improves therapeutic effects, but it also increases adverse events. Ceramide, a central molecule in sphingolipid metabolism and signaling pathways, mediates antiproliferative responses, and its level increases in response to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, when ceramide is metabolized, prosurvival factors, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), and glucosylceramide, are produced, reducing the antitumor effects of ceramide. The activities of ceramide- and sphingosine-metabolizing enzymes are also associated with radio- and chemo-resistance. Ceramide analogs and low molecular-weight compounds targeting these enzymes exert anticancer effects. Synthetic ceramides and a therapeutic approach using ultrasound have also been developed. Inhibitors of ceramide- and sphingosine-metabolizing enzymes and synthetic ceramides can function as sensitizers of radiotherapy and chemotherapy for HNSCC.
Collapse
|
36
|
Cancer Immunotherapeutic Potential of NKTT320, a Novel, Invariant, Natural Killer T Cell-Activating, Humanized Monoclonal Antibody. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124317. [PMID: 32560408 PMCID: PMC7352964 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) directly kill tumor cells and trans-activate the anti-tumor functions of dendritic cells (DC), natural killer (NK) cells, and T and B cells. As such, iNKTs serve as a powerful tool for use in cell-based cancer immunotherapy. iNKT cell activation commonly requires engagement of the invariant T cell receptor (iTCR) by CD1d presenting glycolipid antigens. However, transformed cells often down-regulate CD1d expression, which results in a reduction of iNKT cell anti-tumor functions. One approach to circumvent this critical barrier to iNKT cell activation is to develop an agonistic antibody that binds directly to the iTCR without the requirement for CD1d-mediated antigen presentation. To this end, we have characterized the iNKT cell stimulatory properties of NKTT320, a novel, recombinant, humanized, monoclonal antibody that binds selectively and with high affinity to human iTCRs. Strikingly, immobilized NKTT320 mediated robust iNKT cell activation (upregulation of CD25 and CD69) and proliferation (carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) dilution), as well as Th1 and Th2 cytokine production. Additionally, iNKTs stimulated by plate-bound NKTT320 exhibited increased intracellular levels of granzyme B and degranulation (exposure of CD107 on the cell surface). Furthermore, both soluble and immobilized NKTT320 induced iNKT cell-mediated activation of bystander immune cells, suggesting that this novel anti-iTCR antibody facilitates both direct and indirect iNKT cell cytotoxicity. These studies are significant, as they provide a framework by which iNKT cell anti-cancer functions could be enhanced for therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
|
37
|
Chronic Viral Liver Diseases: Approaching the Liver Using T Cell Receptor-Mediated Gene Technologies. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061471. [PMID: 32560123 PMCID: PMC7349849 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic infection with viral hepatitis is a major risk factor for liver injury and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). One major contributing factor to the chronicity is the dysfunction of virus-specific T cell immunity. T cells engineered to express virus-specific T cell receptors (TCRs) may be a therapeutic option to improve host antiviral responses and have demonstrated clinical success against virus-associated tumours. This review aims to give an overview of TCRs identified from viral hepatitis research and discuss how translational lessons learned from cancer immunotherapy can be applied to the field. TCR isolation pipelines, liver homing signals, cell type options, as well as safety considerations will be discussed herein.
Collapse
|
38
|
Challenges of iNKT cell-based antitumor immunotherapies. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 18:1077-1078. [PMID: 32523114 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-0479-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
|
39
|
Ishibashi F, Sakairi Y, Iwata T, Moriya Y, Mizobuchi T, Hoshino H, Yoshida S, Hanaoka H, Yoshino I, Motohashi S. A phase I study of loco-regional immunotherapy by transbronchial injection of α-galactosylceramide-pulsed antigen presenting cells in patients with lung cancer. Clin Immunol 2020; 215:108457. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2020.108457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
40
|
McNerney KO, Karageorgos SA, Hogarty MD, Bassiri H. Enhancing Neuroblastoma Immunotherapies by Engaging iNKT and NK Cells. Front Immunol 2020; 11:873. [PMID: 32457760 PMCID: PMC7225357 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children and, in the high-risk group, has a 5-year mortality rate of ~50%. The high mortality rate and significant treatment-related morbidities associated with current standard of care therapies belie the critical need for more tolerable and effective treatments for this disease. While the monoclonal antibody dinutuximab has demonstrated the potential for immunotherapy to improve overall NB outcomes, the 5-year overall survival of high-risk patients has not yet substantially changed. The frequency and type of invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) and natural killer cells (NKs) has been associated with improved outcomes in several solid and liquid malignancies, including NB. Indeed, iNKTs and NKs inhibit tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), kill cancer stem cells (CSCs) and neuroblasts, and robustly secrete cytokines to recruit additional immune effectors. These capabilities, and promising pre-clinical and early clinical data suggest that iNKT- and NK-based therapies may hold promise as both stand-alone and combination treatments for NB. In this review we will summarize the biologic features of iNKTs and NKs that confer advantages for NB immunotherapy, discuss the barriers imposed by the NB tumor microenvironment, and examine the current state of such therapies in pre-clinical models and clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin O McNerney
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Spyridon A Karageorgos
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael D Hogarty
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hamid Bassiri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Enhancing the antitumor functions of invariant natural killer T cells using a soluble CD1d-CD19 fusion protein. Blood Adv 2020; 3:813-824. [PMID: 30858151 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2018028886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells comprise a unique lineage of CD1d-restricted lipid-reactive T lymphocytes that potently kill tumor cells and exhibit robust immunostimulatory functions. Optimal tumor-directed iNKT cell responses often require expression of the antigen-presenting molecule CD1d on tumors; however, many tumor cells downregulate CD1d and thus evade iNKT cell recognition. We generated a soluble bispecific fusion protein designed to direct iNKT cells to the site of B-cell cancers in a tumor antigen-specific but CD1d-independent manner. This fusion protein is composed of a human CD1d molecule joined to a single chain antibody FV fragment specific for CD19, an antigen widely expressed on B-cell cancers. The CD1d-CD19 fusion protein binds specifically to CD19-expressing, but not CD19-negative cells. Once loaded with the iNKT cell lipid agonist α-galactosyl ceramide (αGC), the CD1d-CD19 fusion induces robust in vitro activation of and cytokine production by human iNKT cells. iNKT cells stimulated by the αGC-loaded CD1d-CD19 fusion also strongly transactivate T-, B-, and NK-cell responses and promote dendritic cell maturation. Importantly, the αGC-loaded fusion induces robust lysis of CD19+CD1d- Epstein-Barr virus immortalized human B-lymphoblastoid cell lines that are otherwise resistant to iNKT cell killing. Consistent with these findings; administration of the αGC-loaded fusion protein controlled the growth of CD19+CD1d- tumors in vivo, suggesting that it can "link" iNKT cells and CD19+CD1d- targets in a therapeutically beneficial manner. Taken together, these preclinical studies demonstrate that this B cell-directed fusion protein can be used to effectively induce iNKT cell antitumor responses in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
|
42
|
Expansion and CD2/CD3/CD28 stimulation enhance Th2 cytokine secretion of human invariant NKT cells with retained anti-tumor cytotoxicity. Cytotherapy 2020; 22:276-290. [PMID: 32238299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2020.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Key obstacles in human iNKT cell translational research and immunotherapy include the lack of robust protocols for dependable expansion of human iNKT cells and the paucity of data on phenotypes in post-expanded cells. METHODS We delineate expansion methods using interleukin (IL)-2, IL-7 and allogeneic feeder cells and anti-CD2/CD3/CD28 stimulation by which to dependably augment Th2 polarization and direct cytotoxicity of human peripheral blood CD3+Vα24+Vβ11+ iNKT cells. RESULTS Gene and protein expression profiling demonstrated augmented Th2 cytokine secretion (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13) in expanded iNKT cells stimulated with anti-CD2/CD3/CD28 antibodies. Cytotoxic effector molecules including granzyme B were increased in expanded iNKT cells after CD2/CD3/CD28 stimulation. Direct cytotoxicity assays using unstimulated expanded iNKT cell effectors revealed α-galactosyl ceramide (α-GalCer)-dependent killing of the T-ALL cell line Jurkat. Moreover, CD2/CD3/CD28 stimulation of expanded iNKT cells augmented their (α-GalCer-independent) killing of Jurkat cells. Co-culture of expanded iNKT cells with stimulated responder cells confirmed contact-dependent inhibition of activated CD4+ and CD8+ responder T cells. DISCUSSION These data establish a robust protocol to expand and novel pathways to enhance Th2 cytokine secretion and direct cytotoxicity in human iNKT cells, findings with direct implications for autoimmunity, vaccine augmentation and anti-infective immunity, cancer immunotherapy and transplantation.
Collapse
|
43
|
CD1d expression and invariant natural killer T-cell numbers are reduced in patients with upper gastrointestinal cancers and are further impaired by commonly used chemotherapies. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2020; 69:969-982. [DOI: 10.1007/s00262-020-02514-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
44
|
Fujii SI, Shimizu K. Immune Networks and Therapeutic Targeting of iNKT Cells in Cancer. Trends Immunol 2019; 40:984-997. [PMID: 31676264 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
One of the primary goals in tumor immunotherapy is to reset the immune system from tolerogenic to immunogenic - a process in which invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are implicated. iNKT cells develop in the thymus and perform immunosurveillance against tumor cells peripherally. When optimally stimulated, iNKT cells differentiate and display more efficient immune functions. Some cells survive and act as effector memory cells. We discuss the putative roles of iNKT cells in antitumor immunity, and posit that it may be possible to develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat cancers using iNKT cells. In particular, we highlight the challenge of uniquely energizing iNKT cell-licensed dendritic cells to serve as effective immunoadjuvants for both arms of the immune system, thus coupling immunological networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichiro Fujii
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ihara F, Sakurai D, Takami M, Kamata T, Kunii N, Yamasaki K, Iinuma T, Nakayama T, Motohashi S, Okamoto Y. Regulatory T cells induce CD4 - NKT cell anergy and suppress NKT cell cytotoxic function. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:1935-1947. [PMID: 31641795 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02417-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the strong tumoricidal activities of activated natural killer T (NKT) cells, invariant NKT cell-based immunotherapy has shown promising clinical efficacy. However, suppressive factors, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs), may be obstacles in the use of NKT cell-based cancer immunotherapy for advanced cancer patients. Here, we investigated the suppressive effects of Tregs on NKT cells and the underlying mechanisms with the aim to improve the antitumor activities of NKT cells. METHODS Peripheral blood samples were obtained from healthy donors, patients with benign tumors, and patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). NKT cells, induced with α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), and monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) were co-cultured with naïve CD4+ T cell-derived Tregs to investigate the mechanism of the Treg suppressive effect on NKT cell cytotoxic function. The functions and phenotypes of NKT cells were evaluated with flow cytometry and cytometric bead array. RESULTS Treg suppression on NKT cell function required cell-to-cell contact and was mediated via impaired DC maturation. NKT cells cultured under Treg-enriched conditions showed a decrease in CD4- NKT cell frequency, which exert strong tumoricidal responsiveness upon α-GalCer stimulation. The same results were observed in HNSCC patients with significantly increased effector Tregs. CONCLUSION Tregs exert suppressive effects on NKT cell tumoricidal function by inducing more CD4- NKT cell anergy and less CD4+ NKT cell anergy. Both Treg depletion and NKT cell recovery from the anergy state may be important for improving the clinical efficacy of NKT cell-based immunotherapy in patients with advanced cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Ihara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.,Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Daiju Sakurai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Mariko Takami
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshiko Kamata
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoki Kunii
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kazuki Yamasaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Iinuma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Motohashi
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Okamoto
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhu Y, Smith DJ, Zhou Y, Li YR, Yu J, Lee D, Wang YC, Di Biase S, Wang X, Hardoy C, Ku J, Tsao T, Lin LJ, Pham AT, Moon H, McLaughlin J, Cheng D, Hollis RP, Campo-Fernandez B, Urbinati F, Wei L, Pang L, Rezek V, Berent-Maoz B, Macabali MH, Gjertson D, Wang X, Galic Z, Kitchen SG, An DS, Hu-Lieskovan S, Kaplan-Lefko PJ, De Oliveira SN, Seet CS, Larson SM, Forman SJ, Heath JR, Zack JA, Crooks GM, Radu CG, Ribas A, Kohn DB, Witte ON, Yang L. Development of Hematopoietic Stem Cell-Engineered Invariant Natural Killer T Cell Therapy for Cancer. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 25:542-557.e9. [PMID: 31495780 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are potent immune cells for targeting cancer; however, their clinical application has been hindered by their low numbers in cancer patients. Here, we developed a proof-of-concept for hematopoietic stem cell-engineered iNKT (HSC-iNKT) cell therapy with the potential to provide therapeutic levels of iNKT cells for a patient's lifetime. Using a human HSC engrafted mouse model and a human iNKT TCR gene engineering approach, we demonstrated the efficient and long-term generation of HSC-iNKT cells in vivo. These HSC-iNKT cells closely resembled endogenous human iNKT cells, could deploy multiple mechanisms to attack tumor cells, and effectively suppressed tumor growth in vivo in multiple human tumor xenograft mouse models. Preclinical safety studies showed no toxicity or tumorigenicity of the HSC-iNKT cell therapy. Collectively, these results demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and cancer therapy potential of the proposed HSC-iNKT cell therapy and laid a foundation for future clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Drake J Smith
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yan-Ruide Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jiaji Yu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Derek Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yu-Chen Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stefano Di Biase
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christian Hardoy
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Josh Ku
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tasha Tsao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Levina J Lin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Alexander T Pham
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Heesung Moon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jami McLaughlin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Donghui Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Roger P Hollis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Beatriz Campo-Fernandez
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Fabrizia Urbinati
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Liu Wei
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Ahmanson Translational Imaging Division, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Larry Pang
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Ahmanson Translational Imaging Division, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Valerie Rezek
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Beata Berent-Maoz
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mignonette H Macabali
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - David Gjertson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Zoran Galic
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Scott G Kitchen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Dong Sung An
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; AIDS Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Siwen Hu-Lieskovan
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Paula J Kaplan-Lefko
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Satiro N De Oliveira
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christopher S Seet
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sarah M Larson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Hematological Malignancies and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - James R Heath
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Jerome A Zack
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gay M Crooks
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Caius G Radu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Ahmanson Translational Imaging Division, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Antoni Ribas
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Donald B Kohn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Owen N Witte
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Suzuki S, Sakurai D, Sakurai T, Yonekura S, Iinuma T, Okuma Y, Ihara F, Arai T, Hanazawa T, Fukuda-Kawaguchi E, Ishii Y, Okamoto Y. Sublingual administration of liposomes enclosing alpha-galactosylceramide as an effective adjuvant of allergen immunotherapy in a murine model of allergic rhinitis. Allergol Int 2019; 68:352-362. [PMID: 30803854 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is an established efficacious approach for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). However, SLIT requires a long administration period to establish stable and adequate responses. This study investigated the efficacy of the sublingual administration of an allergen with liposomes enclosing α-GalCer (α-GC-liposome) as a potential adjuvant in mice with AR. METHODS Mice with AR induced by OVA received the sublingual administration of OVA, α-GC-liposomes, or OVA plus α-GC-liposomes for 7 days. After nasal re-challenge with OVA, nasal symptoms were evaluated. The serum levels of OVA-specific Ig, the cytokine production of CD4+ T cells in the cultures of cervical lymph node (CLN) cells, and the gene expression of CLNs were analyzed. RESULTS Although IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 production from CD4+ T cells in CLN cells was significantly inhibited by the sublingual administration of OVA alone in mice with AR induced by OVA, their nasal symptoms were not significantly diminished. However, the combined sublingual administration of α-GC-liposomes and OVA completely suppressed nasal symptoms, downregulated Th2 and Th17 type cytokine production in CD4+ T cells as well as Th2 and Th17 gene expressions, and upregulated Th1 type cytokine production as well as Th1 gene expressions in CLN cells. Additionally, the serum levels of specific IgG2a were promoted, and specific IgE and IgG1 were inhibited. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the sublingual administration of an allergen with α-GC-liposomes as an adjuvant might increase the therapeutic efficacy and effectiveness of this treatment method.
Collapse
|
48
|
Zhao Y, Li X, Zhao W, Wang J, Yu J, Wan Z, Gao K, Yi G, Wang X, Fan B, Wu Q, Chen B, Xie F, Wu J, Zhang W, Chen F, Yang H, Wang J, Xu X, Li B, Liu S, Hou Y, Liu X. Single-cell transcriptomic landscape of nucleated cells in umbilical cord blood. Gigascience 2019; 8:giz047. [PMID: 31049560 PMCID: PMC6497034 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For both pediatric and adult patients, umbilical cord blood (UCB) transplant is a therapeutic option for a variety of hematologic diseases, such as blood cancers, myeloproliferative disorders, genetic diseases, and metabolic disorders. However, the level of cellular heterogeneity and diversity of nucleated cells in UCB has not yet been assessed in an unbiased and systemic fashion. In the present study, nucleated cells from UCB were subjected to single-cell RNA sequencing to simultaneously profile the gene expression signatures of thousands of cells, generating a rich resource for further functional studies. Here, we report the transcriptomes of 17,637 UCB cells, covering 12 major cell types, many of which can be further divided into distinct subpopulations. RESULTS Pseudotemporal ordering of nucleated red blood cells identifies wave-like activation and suppression of transcription regulators, leading to a polarized cellular state, which may reflect nucleated red blood cell maturation. Progenitor cells in UCB also comprise 2 subpopulations with activation of divergent transcription programs, leading to specific cell fate commitment. Detailed profiling of cytotoxic cell populations unveiled granzymes B and K signatures in natural killer and natural killer T-cell types in UCB. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our data form a comprehensive single-cell transcriptomic landscape that reveals previously unrecognized cell types, pathways, and mechanisms of gene expression regulation. These data may contribute to the efficacy and outcome of UCB transplant, broadening the scope of research and clinical innovations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Xiao Li
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Weihua Zhao
- Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518035, Guangdong Province, China
| | | | - Jiawei Yu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Ziyun Wan
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Kai Gao
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Gang Yi
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xie Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Bingbing Fan
- Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518035, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qinkai Wu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | | | - Feng Xie
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | | | - Wei Zhang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Fang Chen
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Huanming Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jian Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xun Xu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Bin Li
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | | | - Yong Hou
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Canning M, Guo G, Yu M, Myint C, Groves MW, Byrd JK, Cui Y. Heterogeneity of the Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Immune Landscape and Its Impact on Immunotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:52. [PMID: 31024913 PMCID: PMC6465325 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are highly aggressive, multi-factorial tumors in the upper aerodigestive tract affecting more than half a million patients worldwide each year. Alcohol, tobacco, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are well known causative factors for HNSCCs. Current treatment options for HNSCCs are surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or combinatorial remedies. Over the past decade, despite the marked improvement in clinical outcome of many tumor types, the overall 5-year survival rate of HNSCCs remained ∼40–50% largely due to poor availability of effective therapeutic options for HNSCC patients with recurrent disease. Therefore, there is an urgent and unmet need for the identification of specific molecular signatures that better predict the clinical outcomes and markers that serve as better therapeutic targets. With recent technological advances in genomic and epigenetic analyses, our knowledge of HNSCC molecular characteristics and classification has been greatly enriched. Clinical and genomic meta-analysis of multicohort HNSCC gene expression profile has clearly demonstrated that HPV+ and HPV- HNSCCs are not only derived from tissues of different anatomical regions, but also present with different mutation profiles, molecular characteristics, immune landscapes, and clinical prognosis. Here, we briefly review our current understanding of the biology, molecular profile, and immunological landscape of the HPV+ and HPV- HNSCCs with an emphasis on the diversity and heterogeneity of HNSCC clinicopathology and therapeutic responses. After a review of recent advances and specific challenges for effective immunotherapy of HNSCCs, we then conclude with a discussion on the need to further enhance our understanding of the unique characteristics of HNSCC heterogeneity and the plasticity of immune landscape. Increased knowledge regarding the immunological characteristics of HPV+ and HPV- HNSCCs would improve therapeutic targeting and immunotherapy strategies for different subtypes of HNSCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madison Canning
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Gang Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Miao Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Calvin Myint
- Department of Otolaryngology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Michael W Groves
- Department of Otolaryngology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - James Kenneth Byrd
- Department of Otolaryngology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Yan Cui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgia Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Davitt CJH, Longet S, Albutti A, Aversa V, Nordqvist S, Hackett B, McEntee CP, Rosa M, Coulter IS, Lebens M, Tobias J, Holmgren J, Lavelle EC. Alpha-galactosylceramide enhances mucosal immunity to oral whole-cell cholera vaccines. Mucosal Immunol 2019; 12:1055-1064. [PMID: 30953000 PMCID: PMC7746523 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-019-0159-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) that results in 3-4 million cases globally with 100,000-150,000 deaths reported annually. Mostly confined to developing nations, current strategies to control the spread of cholera include the provision of safe drinking water and improved sanitation and hygiene, ideally in conjunction with oral vaccination. However, difficulties associated with the costs and logistics of these strategies have hampered their widespread implementation. Specific challenges pertaining to oral cholera vaccines (OCVs) include a lack of safe and effective adjuvants to further enhance gut immune responses, the complex and costly multicomponent vaccine manufacturing, limitations of conventional liquid formulation and the lack of an integrated delivery platform. Herein we describe the use of the orally active adjuvant α-Galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) to strongly enhance intestinal bacterium- and toxin-specific IgA responses to the OCV, Dukoral® in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice. We further demonstrate the mucosal immunogenicity of a novel multi-antigen, single-component whole-cell killed V. cholerae strain and the enhancement of its immunogenicity by adding α-GalCer. Finally, we report that combining these components and recombinant cholera toxin B subunit in the SmPill® minisphere delivery system induced strong intestinal and systemic antigen-specific antibody responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. H. Davitt
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland
| | - Stephanie Longet
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland
| | - Aqel Albutti
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland ,0000 0000 9421 8094grid.412602.3College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, 52571 Saudi Arabia
| | - Vincenzo Aversa
- 0000000102380260grid.15596.3eSublimity Therapeutics (Holdco) Ltd, DCU Alpha Innovation Campus, Old Finglas Road, Dublin, D11 KXN4 Ireland
| | - Stefan Nordqvist
- 0000 0000 9919 9582grid.8761.8Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Gothenburg Vaccine Research Institute (GUVAX), University of Gothenburg, Box 435, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Becky Hackett
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland
| | - Craig P. McEntee
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland
| | - Monica Rosa
- 0000000102380260grid.15596.3eSublimity Therapeutics (Holdco) Ltd, DCU Alpha Innovation Campus, Old Finglas Road, Dublin, D11 KXN4 Ireland
| | - Ivan S. Coulter
- 0000000102380260grid.15596.3eSublimity Therapeutics (Holdco) Ltd, DCU Alpha Innovation Campus, Old Finglas Road, Dublin, D11 KXN4 Ireland
| | - Michael Lebens
- 0000 0000 9919 9582grid.8761.8Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Gothenburg Vaccine Research Institute (GUVAX), University of Gothenburg, Box 435, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Joshua Tobias
- 0000 0000 9919 9582grid.8761.8Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Gothenburg Vaccine Research Institute (GUVAX), University of Gothenburg, Box 435, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan Holmgren
- 0000 0000 9919 9582grid.8761.8Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Gothenburg Vaccine Research Institute (GUVAX), University of Gothenburg, Box 435, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ed C. Lavelle
- 0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cAdjuvant Research Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 R590 Ireland ,0000 0004 1936 9705grid.8217.cCentre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN) & Advanced Materials Bio-Engineering Research Centre (AMBER), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, D02 PN40 Ireland
| |
Collapse
|