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Li J, Moresco P, Fearon DT. Intratumoral NKT cell accumulation promotes antitumor immunity in pancreatic cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2403917121. [PMID: 38980903 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2403917121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a potentially lethal disease lacking effective treatments. Its immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) allows it to evade host immunosurveillance and limits response to immunotherapy. Here, using the mouse KRT19-deficient (sgKRT19-edited) PDA model, we find that intratumoral accumulation of natural killer T (NKT) cells is required to establish an immunologically active TME. Mechanistically, intratumoral NKT cells facilitate type I interferon (IFN) production to initiate an antitumor adaptive immune response, and orchestrate the intratumoral infiltration of T cells, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. At the molecular level, NKT cells promote the production of type I IFN through the interaction of their CD40L with CD40 on myeloid cells. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of these observations, we find that administration of folinic acid to mice bearing PDA increases NKT cells in the TME and improves their response to anti-PD-1 antibody treatment. In conclusion, NKT cells have an essential role in the immune response to mouse PDA and are potential targets for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayun Li
- Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
| | - Philip Moresco
- Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794
| | - Douglas T Fearon
- Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065
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2
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Chen T. Unveiling the significance of inducible nitric oxide synthase: Its impact on cancer progression and clinical implications. Cancer Lett 2024; 592:216931. [PMID: 38701892 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
The intricate role of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cancer pathophysiology has garnered significant attention, highlighting the complex interplay between tumorigenesis, immune response, and cellular metabolism. As an enzyme responsible for producing nitric oxide (NO) in response to inflammatory stimuli. iNOS is implicated in various aspects of cancer development, including DNA damage, angiogenesis, and evasion of apoptosis. This review synthesizes the current findings from both preclinical and clinical studies on iNOS across different cancer types, reflecting the variability depending on cellular context and tumor microenvironment. We explore the molecular mechanisms by which iNOS modulates cancer cell growth, survival, and metastasis, emphasizing its impact on immune surveillance and response to treatment. Additionally, the potential of targeting iNOS as a therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment is examined. By integrating insights from recent advances, this review aims to elucidate the significant role of iNOS in cancer and pave the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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3
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Takami M, Aoki T, Nishimura K, Tanaka H, Onodera A, Motohashi S. Anti-Vα24Jα18 TCR Antibody Tunes iNKT Cell Responses to Target and Kill CD1d-negative Tumors in an FcγRII (CD32)-dependent Manner. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:446-459. [PMID: 38319156 PMCID: PMC10875981 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells play an essential role in antitumor immunity by exerting cytotoxicity and producing massive amounts of cytokines. iNKT cells express invariant T-cell receptors (TCR) to recognize their cognate glycolipid antigens such as α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) presented on CD1d. We recently reported that iNKT cells recognize CD1d-negative leukemia cell line K562 in a TCR-dependent manner. However, it remains controversial how iNKT cells use TCRs to recognize and exhibit cytotoxic activity toward CD1d-negative tumors cells without CD1d restriction. Here, we report that iNKT cells exerted cytotoxicity toward K562 cells via a carried over anti-Vα24 TCR mAb from positive selection by magnetic bead sorting. We found that addition of the anti-Vα24Jα18 TCR mAb (6B11 mAb) rendered iNKT cells cytotoxic to K562 cells in an FcγRII (CD32)-dependent manner. Moreover, iNKT cells treated with 6B11 mAb became cytotoxic to other CD32+ cell lines (U937 and Daudi). In addition, iNKT cells treated with 6B11 mAb suppressed K562 cell growth in a murine xenograft model in vivo. These data suggest that anti-iNKT TCR mAb treatment of iNKT cells can be applied as a therapeutic strategy to treat CD32+ cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and lung cancer. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings unveiled that iNKT cells recognize and kill CD1d-negative target tumors via the anti-iNKT TCR mAb bound to CD32 at the tumor site, thereby bridging iNKT cells and CD1d-negative tumors. These findings shed light on the therapeutic potential of anti-iNKT TCR mAbs in NKT cell-based immunotherapy to treat CD1d-negative CD32+ cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Takami
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takahiro Aoki
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Nishimura
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Tanaka
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Onodera
- Institute for Advanced Academic Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Research Institute for Disaster Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Motohashi
- Department of Medical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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4
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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.
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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
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5
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Burn OK, Dasyam N, Hermans IF. Recruiting Natural Killer T Cells to Improve Vaccination: Lessons from Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Crit Rev Oncog 2024; 29:31-43. [PMID: 38421712 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2023049407] [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
The capacity of type I natural killer T (NKT) cells to provide stimulatory signals to antigen-presenting cells has prompted preclinical research into the use of agonists as immune adjuvants, with much of this work focussed on stimulating T cell responses to cancer. In attempting to evaluate this approach in the clinic, our recent dendritic-cell based study failed to show an advantage to adding an agonist to the vaccine. Here we present potential limitations of the study, and suggest why other simpler strategies may be more effective. These include strategies to target antigen-presenting cells in the host, either through promoting efficient transfer from injected cell lines, facilitating uptake of antigen and agonist as injected conjugates, or encapsulating the components into injected nanovectors. While the vaccine landscape has changed with the rapid uptake of mRNA vaccines, we suggest that there is still a role for recruiting NKT cells in altering T cell differentiation programmes, notably the induction of resident memory T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K Burn
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Ian F Hermans
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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6
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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.
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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
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7
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Gonzatti MB, Freire BM, Antunes MM, de Menezes GB, Talbot J, Peron JPS, Basso AS, Keller AC. Targeting adrenergic receptors to mitigate invariant natural killer T cells-induced acute liver injury. iScience 2023; 26:107947. [PMID: 37841583 PMCID: PMC10568435 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cell activation by α-galactosylceramide (αGC) potentiates cytotoxic immune responses against tumors. However, αGC-induced liver injury is a limiting factor for iNKT-based immunotherapy. Although adrenergic receptor stimulation is an important immunosuppressive signal that curbs tissue damage induced by inflammation, its effect on the antitumor activity of invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells remains unclear. We use mouse models and pharmacological tools to show that the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) inhibits αGC-induced liver injury without impairing iNKT cells' antitumoral functions. Mechanistically, SNS stimulation prevents the collateral effect of TNF-α production by iNKT cells and neutrophil accumulation in hepatic parenchyma. Our results suggest that the modulation of the adrenergic signaling can be a complementary approach to αGC-based immunotherapy to mitigate iNKT-induced liver injury without compromising its antitumoral activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Bauwelz Gonzatti
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), Rua Botucatu, 862, 4th floor, São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Marton Freire
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), Rua Botucatu, 862, 4th floor, São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Maísa Mota Antunes
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Minas Gerais 31270-910, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Batista de Menezes
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Minas Gerais 31270-910, Brazil
| | - Jhimmy Talbot
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109-1024, USA
| | - Jean Pierre Schatzmann Peron
- Department of Immunology-ICB IV, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1730, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Salgado Basso
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), Rua Botucatu, 862, 4th floor, São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Castro Keller
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), Rua Botucatu, 862, 4th floor, São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
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8
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Singh S, Barik D, Arukha AP, Prasad S, Mohapatra I, Singh A, Singh G. Small Molecule Targeting Immune Cells: A Novel Approach for Cancer Treatment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2621. [PMID: 37892995 PMCID: PMC10604364 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional and cancer immunotherapies encompass diverse strategies to address various cancer types and stages. However, combining these approaches often encounters limitations such as non-specific targeting, resistance development, and high toxicity, leading to suboptimal outcomes in many cancers. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is orchestrated by intricate interactions between immune and non-immune cells dictating tumor progression. An innovative avenue in cancer therapy involves leveraging small molecules to influence a spectrum of resistant cell populations within the TME. Recent discoveries have unveiled a phenotypically diverse cohort of innate-like T (ILT) cells and tumor hybrid cells (HCs) exhibiting novel characteristics, including augmented proliferation, migration, resistance to exhaustion, evasion of immunosurveillance, reduced apoptosis, drug resistance, and heightened metastasis frequency. Leveraging small-molecule immunomodulators to target these immune players presents an exciting frontier in developing novel tumor immunotherapies. Moreover, combining small molecule modulators with immunotherapy can synergistically enhance the inhibitory impact on tumor progression by empowering the immune system to meticulously fine-tune responses within the TME, bolstering its capacity to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This review outlines strategies involving small molecules that modify immune cells within the TME, potentially revolutionizing therapeutic interventions and enhancing the anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Debashis Barik
- Center for Computational Natural Science and Bioinformatics, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad 500032, Telangana, India
| | | | | | - Iteeshree Mohapatra
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Amar Singh
- Schulze Diabetes Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Gatikrushna Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Kuen DS, Hong J, Lee S, Koh CH, Kwak M, Kim BS, Jung M, Kim YJ, Cho BS, Kim BS, Chung Y. A Personalized Cancer Vaccine that Induces Synergistic Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2303080. [PMID: 37249019 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
To demonstrate potent efficacy, a cancer vaccine needs to activate both innate and adaptive immune cells. Personalized cancer vaccine strategies often require the identification of patient-specific neoantigens; however, the clonal and mutational heterogeneity of cancer cells presents inherent challenges. Here, extracellular nanovesicles derived from alpha-galactosylceramide-conjugated autologous acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells (ECNV-αGC) are presented as a personalized therapeutic vaccine that activates both innate and adaptive immune responses, bypassing the need to identify patient-specific neoantigens. ECNV-αGC vaccination directly engages with and activates both invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and leukemia-specific CD8+ T cells in mice with AML, thereby promoting long-term anti-leukemic immune memory. ECNV-αGC sufficiently serves as an antigen-presenting platform that can directly activate antigen-specific CD8+ T cells even in the absence of dendritic cells, thereby demonstrating a multifaceted cellular mechanism of immune activation. Moreover, ECNV-αGC vaccination results in a significantly lower AML burden and higher percentage of leukemia-free survivors among cytarabine-treated hosts with AML. Human AML-derived ECNV-αGCs activate iNKT cells in both healthy individuals and patients with AML regardless of responsiveness to conventional therapies. Together, autologous AML-derived ECNV-αGCs may be a promising personalized therapeutic vaccine that efficiently establishes AML-specific long-term immunity without requiring the identification of neoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Sol Kuen
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihye Hong
- Interdisciplinary Program for Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suyoung Lee
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong-Hyun Koh
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyeong Kwak
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, 22012, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Mungyo Jung
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Joo Kim
- Department of Hematology, Catholic Hematology Hospital and Leukemia Research Institute, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 06591, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Sik Cho
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Soo Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program for Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, 22012, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Chemical Processes, Institute of Engineering Research, BioMAX, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeonseok Chung
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Wang J, Li RZ, Wang WJ, Pan HD, Xie C, Yau LF, Wang XX, Long WL, Chen RH, Liang TL, Ma LR, Li JX, Huang JM, Wu QB, Liu L, He JX, Leung ELH. CERS4 predicts positive anti-PD-1 response and promotes immunomodulation through Rhob-mediated suppression of CD8 +Tim3 + exhausted T cells in non-small cell lung cancer. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106850. [PMID: 37453674 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the main malignant tumors with high mortality and short survival time. Immunotherapy has become the standard treatment for advanced NSCLC, but it has the problems of drug resistance and low response rate. Therefore, obtaining effective biomarkers to predict and enhance immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) efficacy in NSCLC is important. Sphingolipid metabolism is recently found to be closely involved in tumor immunotherapy. CERS4, an important sphingolipid metabolizing enzyme, is positively correlated with the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy for NSCLC. Upregulation of CERS4 expression could improve the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy for NSCLC. High expression of CERS4 could downregulate the expression of Rhob in tumor. Significantly, the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ T cell increased and the ratio of Tim-3+/CD8+ T cell decreased in spleen and peripheral blood cells. When Rhob was knocked out, the efficacy of PD-1 mAb treatment increased, and the frequency of Tim-3+ CD8+ T cell decreased. This finding further confirmed the role of sphingolipid metabolites in regulating the immunotherapeutic function of NSCLC. These metabolites may improve the efficacy of PD-1 mAb in NSCLC by regulating the CERS4/Rhob/Tim-3 axis. Overall, this study provided a potential and effective target for predicting and improving the efficacy of ICIs for NSCLC. It also provided a new perspective for the study on the mechanisms of ICIs resistance for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China; Department of Medical Oncology, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Run-Ze Li
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hu-Dan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun Xie
- Cancer Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Lee-Fong Yau
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Xing-Xia Wang
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Wei-Li Long
- Department of Oncology, Luzhou People's Hospital, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Rui-Hong Chen
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Tu-Liang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin-Rui Ma
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Jia-Xin Li
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Ju-Min Huang
- Cancer Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Qi-Biao Wu
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery/State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine/Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau (SAR), China
| | - Liang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jian-Xing He
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Elaine Lai-Han Leung
- Cancer Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China. State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macau (SAR), China; Laboratory of Allergy and Precision Medicine, Chengdu Institute of Respiratory Health, the Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chengdu Institute of Respiratory Health, Chengdu Third People's Hospital Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Chengdu, China.
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11
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Jin X, Yang GY. Pathophysiological roles and applications of glycosphingolipids in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer diseases. Prog Lipid Res 2023; 91:101241. [PMID: 37524133 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2023.101241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are major amphiphilic glycolipids present on the surface of living cell membranes. They have important biological functions, including maintaining plasma membrane stability, regulating signal transduction, and mediating cell recognition and adhesion. Specific GSLs and related enzymes are abnormally expressed in many cancer diseases and affect the malignant characteristics of tumors. The regulatory roles of GSLs in signaling pathways suggest that they are involved in tumor pathogenesis. GSLs have therefore been widely studied as diagnostic markers of cancer diseases and important targets of immunotherapy. This review describes the tumor-related biological functions of GSLs and systematically introduces recent progress in using diverse GSLs and related enzymes to diagnose and treat tumor diseases. Development of drugs and biomarkers for personalized cancer therapy based on GSL structure is also discussed. These advances, combined with recent progress in the preparation of GSLs derivatives through synthetic biology technologies, suggest a strong future for the use of customized GSL libraries in treating human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences and the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Guang-Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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12
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Hadiloo K, Tahmasebi S, Esmaeilzadeh A. CAR-NKT cell therapy: a new promising paradigm of cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:86. [PMID: 37158883 PMCID: PMC10165596 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02923-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, cancer treatment is one of the fundamental problems facing clinicians and researchers worldwide. Efforts to find an excellent way to treat this illness continue, and new therapeutic strategies are developed quickly. Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) is a practical approach that has been emerged to improve clinical outcomes in cancer patients. In the ACT, one of the best ways to arm the immune cells against tumors is by employing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) via genetic engineering. CAR equips cells to target specific antigens on tumor cells and selectively eradicate them. Researchers have achieved promising preclinical and clinical outcomes with different cells by using CARs. One of the potent immune cells that seems to be a good candidate for CAR-immune cell therapy is the Natural Killer-T (NKT) cell. NKT cells have multiple features that make them potent cells against tumors and would be a powerful replacement for T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. NKT cells are cytotoxic immune cells with various capabilities and no notable side effects on normal cells. The current study aimed to comprehensively provide the latest advances in CAR-NKT cell therapy for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Hadiloo
- Student Research Committee, Department of immunology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Safa Tahmasebi
- Student Research Committee, Department of immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
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13
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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.
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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.
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14
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Look A, Burns D, Tews I, Roghanian A, Mansour S. Towards a better understanding of human iNKT cell subpopulations for improved clinical outcomes. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1176724. [PMID: 37153585 PMCID: PMC10154573 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1176724] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a unique T lymphocyte population expressing semi-invariant T cell receptors (TCRs) that recognise lipid antigens presented by CD1d. iNKT cells exhibit potent anti-tumour activity through direct killing mechanisms and indirectly through triggering the activation of other anti-tumour immune cells. Because of their ability to induce potent anti-tumour responses, particularly when activated by the strong iNKT agonist αGalCer, they have been the subject of intense research to harness iNKT cell-targeted immunotherapies for cancer treatment. However, despite potent anti-tumour efficacy in pre-clinical models, the translation of iNKT cell immunotherapy into human cancer patients has been less successful. This review provides an overview of iNKT cell biology and why they are of interest within the context of cancer immunology. We focus on the iNKT anti-tumour response, the seminal studies that first reported iNKT cytotoxicity, their anti-tumour mechanisms, and the various described subsets within the iNKT cell repertoire. Finally, we discuss several barriers to the successful utilisation of iNKT cells in human cancer immunotherapy, what is required for a better understanding of human iNKT cells, and the future perspectives facilitating their exploitation for improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Look
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Burns
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ivo Tews
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ali Roghanian
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Antibody and Vaccine Group, Centre for Cancer Immunology, School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Salah Mansour
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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15
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Fuchs JR, Schulte BC, Fuchs JW, Agulnik M. Emerging targeted and cellular therapies in the treatment of advanced and metastatic synovial sarcoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1123464. [PMID: 36761952 PMCID: PMC9905840 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1123464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Synovial sarcoma is a soft tissue sarcoma accounting for approximately 1,000 cases per year in the United States. Currently, standard treatment of advanced and metastatic synovial sarcoma is anthracycline-based chemotherapy. While advanced synovial sarcoma is more responsive to chemotherapy compared to other soft tissue sarcomas, survival rates are poor, with a median survival time of less than 18 months. Enhanced understanding of tumor antigen expression and molecular mechanisms behind synovial sarcoma provide potential targets for treatment. Adoptive Cell Transfer using engineered T-cell receptors is in clinical trials for treatment of synovial sarcoma, specifically targeting New York esophageal squamous cell carcinoma-1 (NY-ESO-1), preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME), and melanoma antigen-A4 (MAGE-A4). In this review, we explore the opportunities and challenges of these treatments. We also describe artificial adjuvant vector cells (aAVCs) and BRD9 inhibitors, two additional potential targets for treatment of advanced synovial sarcoma. This review demonstrates the progress that has been made in treatment of synovial sarcoma and highlights the future study and qualification needed to implement these technologies as standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R. Fuchs
- Department of Medicine, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Brian C. Schulte
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey W. Fuchs
- Department of Medicine, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mark Agulnik
- Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, United States,*Correspondence: Mark Agulnik,
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16
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Kratzmeier C, Singh S, Asiedu EB, Webb TJ. Current Developments in the Preclinical and Clinical use of Natural Killer T cells. BioDrugs 2023; 37:57-71. [PMID: 36525216 PMCID: PMC9756707 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-022-00572-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells play a pivotal role as a bridge between the innate and the adaptive immune response and are instrumental in the regulation of homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the potential for NKT cells to serve as biodrugs in viral infections and in cancer. NKT cells are being investigated for their use as a prognostic biomarker, an immune adjuvant, and as a form of cellular therapy. Historically, the clinical utility of NKT cells was hampered by their low frequency in the blood, discrepancies in nomenclature, and challenges with ex vivo expansion. However, recent advances in the field have permitted the development of several NKT cell-based preclinical and clinical strategies. These new developments pave the way for the successful implementation of NKT cell-based approaches for the treatment of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kratzmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore St, HSF I-Room 380, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Sasha Singh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore St, HSF I-Room 380, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Emmanuel B Asiedu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore St, HSF I-Room 380, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Tonya J Webb
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore St, HSF I-Room 380, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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17
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Iyoda T, Shimizu K, Kawamura M, Shinga J, Watanabe T, Fukunaga K, Mushiroda T, Saka H, Kitagawa C, Shimamatsu SI, Takenoyama M, Suehiro Y, Imai T, Shintani A, Ito S, Fujii SI. Augmenting Granzyme B-Expressing NK Cells by Invariant NKT Ligand-Loaded APCs in Patients with Postoperative Early Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Results of a Randomized Phase II Study. Immunohorizons 2023; 7:1-16. [PMID: 36637516 PMCID: PMC10563390 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2200091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
NK cells are major effector cells involved in the elimination of early tumors and prevent metastasis. They often have an impaired function in patients with cancer. Preclinical studies have demonstrated NK cell activation as the adjunctive effect of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. Activation of iNKT cells after administration of the glycolipid ligand α-galactosylceramide, loaded with CD1d-expressing human PBMC-derived APCs (APC/Gal), is an attractive cancer therapy to optimize the use of NK cells. However, the subsets of NK cells that are activated following iNKT cell activation as well as the period of NK cell activation remain unclear. In this study, we report that the granzyme B-expressing NK cell response in postoperative lung cancer patients was enhanced 49 d after administration of APC/Gal in a phase II study. We found maximum IFN-γ production on day 49 in 13 out of 27 APC/Gal-treated patients. On day 49, 14 out of 27 patients (51.9%) had higher IFN-γ production by iNKT cells (>6-fold higher than the baseline level). This increment significantly correlated with granzyme B-expressing NK cells. Although IFN-γ production was lower in patients in the nontreated group, we detected maximum IFN-γ production 12 mo after the resection of lung cancer (9 out of 29 patients [31%]). These findings suggest that elimination of cancer cells leads to increased NK cell function, which can be further enhanced by APC/Gal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Iyoda
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
- RIKEN Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masami Kawamura
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Jun Shinga
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takashi Watanabe
- Laboratory for Integrative Genomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Koya Fukunaga
- Laboratory for Pharmacogenomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Taisei Mushiroda
- Laboratory for Pharmacogenomics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hideo Saka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagoya Medical Center, National Hospital Organization, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Chiyoe Kitagawa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Nagoya Medical Center, National Hospital Organization, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shin-ichiro Shimamatsu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Kyushu Cancer Center, National Hospital Organization, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Takenoyama
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Kyushu Cancer Center, National Hospital Organization, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Youko Suehiro
- Department of Hematology, Kyushu Cancer Center, National Hospital Organization, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takumi Imai
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Ayumi Shintani
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan; and
- Department of Clinical Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Suminobu Ito
- Department of Clinical Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-ichiro Fujii
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
- RIKEN Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, Yokohama, Japan
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18
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Li D, Liu M, Wang J, Guo J, Xu N, Lu J. SOX chemotherapy with anti-PD-1 and iNKT cell immunotherapies for stage IV gastric adenocarcinoma with liver metastases: A case report. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1073094. [PMID: 36578494 PMCID: PMC9792132 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1073094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth most common cancer worldwide, with overall 5-year survival rate of approximate 20%. Although multimodal treatments that combine surgery with chemotherapy and immunotherapy have been shown to improve survival, pathological complete response (pCR) is rare in advanced GC patients with liver metastases. Pre-clinical studies and clinical trials have demonstrated the antitumor efficacy of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells in various malignancies, including GC. While multimodal therapy comprised of chemotherapy, anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) therapy, and iNKT cell immunotherapy have not been reported in GC patients. This case report describes the treatment of an early 60s patient diagnosed with advanced stage IVB (T1N1M1) adenocarcinomas of gastric cardia with liver metastases who received multimodal therapy comprised of SOX chemotherapy, anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) therapy, and iNKT cell immunotherapy followed by surgical resection. Dramatic decreases in tumor area were observed in both the primary tumor and metastatic lesions following six cycles of SOX chemotherapy and iNKT cell immunotherapy, and four cycles of anti-PD-1 therapy. This combined treatment resulted in the transformation of a remarkably large, unresectable liver metastases into a resectable tumor, and the patient received total gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection and liver metastasectomy. Subsequent pathological examination detected no cancer cells in either the primary site or liver metastatic lesions, supporting the likelihood that this treatment achieved pCR. To our knowledge, this report represents the first case of a metastatic gastric cancer patient displaying pCR after six months of multimodal therapy, thus supporting that a SOX chemotherapy, anti-PD-1 therapy, and iNKT cell immunotherapy combination strategy may be effective for treating, and potentially curing, patients with advanced gastric adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezhao Li
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhuan Wang
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Guo
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ningzhi Xu
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China,State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jun Lu,
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19
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Fujii SI, Kawamata T, Shimizu K, Nakabayashi J, Yamasaki S, Iyoda T, Shinga J, Nakazato H, Sanpei A, Kawamura M, Ueda S, Dörrie J, Mojsov S, Dhodapkar MV, Hidaka M, Nojima M, Nagamura F, Yoshida S, Goto T, Tojo A. Reinvigoration of innate and adaptive immunity via therapeutic cellular vaccine for patients with AML. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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20
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Invariant NKT cells dictate antitumor immunity elicited by a bispecific antibody cotargeting CD3 and BCMA. Blood Adv 2022; 6:5165-5170. [PMID: 35830292 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CD3-engaging bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have emerged as powerful therapeutic approaches by their ability to redirect T cells to eliminate tumor cells in an MHC-independent manner. However, it remains largely unknown how we can potentiate the efficacy of BsAbs. To address this, we investigated immunological mechanisms of action of a BsAb co-targeting CD3 and B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) in syngeneic preclinical myeloma models. Treatment with the CD3/BCMA BsAb stimulated multiple CD3-expressing T cell subsets, as well as natural killer (NK) cells in the myeloma bone marrow (BM), highlighting its broad immunostimulatory effect. Notably, the BsAb-mediated immunostimulatory and anti-tumor effects were abrogated in mice lacking invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. Mechanistically, activation of iNKT cells and IL-12 production from dendritic cells (DCs) were crucial upstream events for triggering effective anti-tumor immunity by the BsAb. Myeloma progression was associated with reduced numbers of BM iNKT cells. Importantly, the therapeutic efficacy of a single dose of the CD3/BCMA BsAb was remarkably augmented by restoring iNKT cell activity using adoptive transfer of α-galactosylceramide-loaded DCs. Together, these results reveal iNKT cells as a critical player for the anti-tumor activity of CD3-engaging BsAbs, providing important translational implications.
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21
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Burn OK, Farrand K, Pritchard T, Draper S, Tang CW, Mooney AH, Schmidt AJ, Yang SH, Williams GM, Brimble MA, Kandasamy M, Marshall AJ, Clarke K, Painter GF, Hermans IF, Weinkove R. Glycolipid-peptide conjugate vaccines elicit CD8 + T-cell responses and prevent breast cancer metastasis. Clin Transl Immunology 2022; 11:e1401. [PMID: 35795321 PMCID: PMC9250805 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Metastasis is the principal cause of breast cancer mortality. Vaccines targeting breast cancer antigens have yet to demonstrate clinical efficacy, and there remains an unmet need for safe and effective treatment to reduce the risk of metastasis, particularly for people with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Certain glycolipids can act as vaccine adjuvants by specifically stimulating natural killer T (NKT) cells to provide a universal form of T-cell help. Methods We designed and made a series of conjugate vaccines comprising a prodrug of the NKT cell-activating glycolipid α-galactosylceramide covalently linked to tumor-expressed peptides, and assessed these using E0771- and 4T1-based breast cancer models in vivo. We employed peptides from the model antigen ovalbumin and from clinically relevant breast cancer antigens HER2 and NY-ESO-1. Results Glycolipid-peptide conjugate vaccines that activate NKT cells led to antigen-presenting cell activation, induced inflammatory cytokines, and, compared with peptide alone or admixed peptide and α-galactosylceramide, specifically enhanced CD8+ T-cell responses against tumor-associated peptides. Primary tumor growth was delayed by vaccination in all tumor models. Using 4T1-based cell lines expressing HER2 or NY-ESO-1, a single administration of the relevant conjugate vaccine prevented tumor colonisation of the lung following intravenous inoculation of tumor cells or spontaneous metastasis from breast, respectively. Conclusion Glycolipid-peptide conjugate vaccines that activate NKT cells prevent lung metastasis in breast cancer models and warrant investigation as adjuvant therapies for high-risk breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K Burn
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand.,Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine University of Otago Wellington Wellington New Zealand
| | - Kathryn Farrand
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand
| | - Tara Pritchard
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand
| | - Sarah Draper
- Ferrier Research Institute Victoria University of Wellington Wellington New Zealand
| | - Ching-Wen Tang
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand
| | - Anna H Mooney
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand
| | | | - Sung H Yang
- School of Chemical Sciences University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | | | - Margaret A Brimble
- School of Chemical Sciences University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand.,School of Biological Sciences University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre Auckland New Zealand
| | - Matheswaran Kandasamy
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Andrew J Marshall
- Ferrier Research Institute Victoria University of Wellington Wellington New Zealand
| | - Kate Clarke
- Wellington Blood & Cancer Centre Capital & Coast District Health Board Wellington New Zealand
| | - Gavin F Painter
- Ferrier Research Institute Victoria University of Wellington Wellington New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre Auckland New Zealand
| | - Ian F Hermans
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre Auckland New Zealand
| | - Robert Weinkove
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Wellington New Zealand.,Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine University of Otago Wellington Wellington New Zealand.,Wellington Blood & Cancer Centre Capital & Coast District Health Board Wellington New Zealand
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22
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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.
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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
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23
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Akache B, Stark FC, Agbayani G, Renner TM, McCluskie MJ. Adjuvants: Engineering Protective Immune Responses in Human and Veterinary Vaccines. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2412:179-231. [PMID: 34918246 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1892-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Adjuvants are key components of many vaccines, used to enhance the level and breadth of the immune response to a target antigen, thereby enhancing protection from the associated disease. In recent years, advances in our understanding of the innate and adaptive immune systems have allowed for the development of a number of novel adjuvants with differing mechanisms of action. Herein, we review adjuvants currently approved for human and veterinary use, describing their use and proposed mechanisms of action. In addition, we will discuss additional promising adjuvants currently undergoing preclinical and/or clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassel Akache
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Felicity C Stark
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gerard Agbayani
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tyler M Renner
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael J McCluskie
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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24
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Fujii SI, Yamasaki S, Hanada K, Ueda S, Kawamura M, Shimizu K. Cancer immunotherapy using artificial adjuvant vector cells to deliver NY-ESO-1 antigen to dendritic cells in situ. Cancer Sci 2021; 113:864-874. [PMID: 34971473 PMCID: PMC8898705 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
NY‐ESO‐1 is a cancer/testis antigen expressed in various cancer types. However, the induction of NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTLs through vaccines is somewhat difficult. Thus, we developed a new type of artificial adjuvant vector cell (aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1) expressing a CD1d‐NKT cell ligand complex and a tumor‐associated antigen, NY‐ESO‐1. First, we determined the activation of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) and natural killer (NK) cell responses by aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1. We then showed that the NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTL response was successfully elicited through aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 therapy. After injection of aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1, we found that dendritic cells (DCs) in situ expressed high levels of costimulatory molecules and produced interleukn‐12 (IL‐12), indicating that DCs undergo maturation in vivo. Furthermore, the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen from aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 was delivered to the DCs in vivo, and it was presented on MHC class I molecules. The cross‐presentation of the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen was absent in conventional DC‐deficient mice, suggesting a host DC‐mediated CTL response. Thus, this strategy helps generate sufficient CD8+ NY‐ESO‐1‐specific CTLs along with iNKT and NK cell activation, resulting in a strong antitumor effect. Furthermore, we established a human DC‐transferred NOD/Shi‐scid/IL‐2γcnull immunodeficient mouse model and showed that the NY‐ESO‐1 antigen from aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 was cross‐presented to antigen‐specific CTLs through human DCs. Taken together, these data suggest that aAVC‐NY‐ESO‐1 has potential for harnessing innate and adaptive immunity against NY‐ESO‐1‐expressing malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Ichiro Fujii
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan.,RIKEN Program for drug discovery and medical technology platforms, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Satoru Yamasaki
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenichi Hanada
- Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shogo Ueda
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masami Kawamura
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kanako Shimizu
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Research Center for Integrative Medicine (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
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25
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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.
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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
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26
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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: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [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.
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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:
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27
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Chimeric antigen receptor- and natural killer cell receptor-engineered innate killer cells in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2083-2100. [PMID: 34267335 PMCID: PMC8429625 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00732-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has demonstrated impressive therapeutic efficacy against hematological malignancies, but multiple challenges have hindered its application, particularly for the eradication of solid tumors. Innate killer cells (IKCs), particularly NK cells, NKT cells, and γδ T cells, employ specific antigen-independent innate tumor recognition and cytotoxic mechanisms that simultaneously display high antitumor efficacy and prevent tumor escape caused by antigen loss or modulation. IKCs are associated with a low risk of developing GVHD, thus offering new opportunities for allogeneic "off-the-shelf" cellular therapeutic products. The unique innate features, wide tumor recognition range, and potent antitumor functions of IKCs make them potentially excellent candidates for cancer immunotherapy, particularly serving as platforms for CAR development. In this review, we first provide a brief summary of the challenges hampering CAR-T-cell therapy applications and then discuss the latest CAR-NK-cell research, covering the advantages, applications, and clinical translation of CAR- and NK-cell receptor (NKR)-engineered IKCs. Advances in synthetic biology and the development of novel genetic engineering techniques, such as gene-editing and cellular reprogramming, will enable the further optimization of IKC-based anticancer therapies.
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28
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Park J, Choi J, Kim DD, Lee S, Lee B, Lee Y, Kim S, Kwon S, Noh M, Lee MO, Le QV, Oh YK. Bioactive Lipids and Their Derivatives in Biomedical Applications. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2021; 29:465-482. [PMID: 34462378 PMCID: PMC8411027 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2021.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipids, which along with carbohydrates and proteins are among the most important nutrients for the living organism, have a variety of biological functions that can be applied widely in biomedicine. A fatty acid, the most fundamental biological lipid, may be classified by length of its aliphatic chain, and the short-, medium-, and long-chain fatty acids and each have distinct biological activities with therapeutic relevance. For example, short-chain fatty acids have immune regulatory activities and could be useful against autoimmune disease; medium-chain fatty acids generate ketogenic metabolites and may be used to control seizure; and some metabolites oxidized from long-chain fatty acids could be used to treat metabolic disorders. Glycerolipids play important roles in pathological environments, such as those of cancers or metabolic disorders, and thus are regarded as a potential therapeutic target. Phospholipids represent the main building unit of the plasma membrane of cells, and play key roles in cellular signaling. Due to their physical properties, glycerophospholipids are frequently used as pharmaceutical ingredients, in addition to being potential novel drug targets for treating disease. Sphingolipids, which comprise another component of the plasma membrane, have their own distinct biological functions and have been investigated in nanotechnological applications such as drug delivery systems. Saccharolipids, which are derived from bacteria, have endotoxin effects that stimulate the immune system. Chemically modified saccharolipids might be useful for cancer immunotherapy or as vaccine adjuvants. This review will address the important biological function of several key lipids and offer critical insights into their potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwon Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyun Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Duk Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghee Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Bongjin Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunhee Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungwon Kwon
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsoo Noh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Ock Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Quoc-Viet Le
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Kyoung Oh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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29
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Salem A, Alotaibi M, Mroueh R, Basheer HA, Afarinkia K. CCR7 as a therapeutic target in Cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188499. [PMID: 33385485 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The CCR7 chemokine axis is comprised of chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21) and chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19) acting on chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7). This axis plays two important but apparently opposing roles in cancer. On the one hand, this axis is significantly engaged in the trafficking of a number of effecter cells involved in mounting an immune response to a growing tumour. This suggests therapeutic strategies which involve potentiation of this axis can be used to combat the spread of cancer. On the other hand, the CCR7 axis plays a significant role in controlling the migration of tumour cells towards the lymphatic system and metastasis and can thus contribute to the expansion of cancer. This implies that therapeutic strategies which involve decreasing signaling through the CCR7 axis would have a beneficial effect in preventing dissemination of cancer. This dichotomy has partly been the reason why this axis has not yet been exploited, as other chemokine axes have, as a therapeutic target in cancer. Recent report of a crystal structure for CCR7 provides opportunities to exploit this axis in developing new cancer therapies. However, it remains unclear which of these two strategies, potentiation or antagonism of the CCR7 axis, is more appropriate for cancer therapy. This review brings together the evidence supporting both roles of the CCR7 axis in cancer and examines the future potential of each of the two different therapeutic approaches involving the CCR7 axis in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Salem
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford; Bradford BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Mashael Alotaibi
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford; Bradford BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Rima Mroueh
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford; Bradford BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Haneen A Basheer
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Zarqa University, PO Box 132222, Zarqa 13132, Jordan
| | - Kamyar Afarinkia
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford; Bradford BD7 1DP, United Kingdom.
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30
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Wang Y, Bhave MS, Yagita H, Cardell SL. Natural Killer T-Cell Agonist α-Galactosylceramide and PD-1 Blockade Synergize to Reduce Tumor Development in a Preclinical Model of Colon Cancer. Front Immunol 2020; 11:581301. [PMID: 33193386 PMCID: PMC7606378 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.581301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Murine and human invariant natural killer T (iNKT) lymphocytes are activated by α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) presented on CD1d. α-GalCer was first described as a lipid that had strong anti-metastatic effects in a mouse melanoma model, and it has subsequently been shown to induce efficient iNKT cell dependent tumor immunity in several tumor models. We have shown that α-GalCer treatment leads to a weak reduction of polyp burden in the autochthonous ApcMin/+ mouse model for human colon cancer, however this treatment resulted in upregulation of the inhibitory receptor PD-1 on iNKT cells. While anti-PD-1 treatment can prevent immune-suppression in other cancer types, human colon cancer is generally resistant to this treatment. Here we have used the ApcMin/+ model to investigate whether a combined treatment with α-GalCer and PD-1 blockade results in improved effects on polyp development. We find that PD-1 expression was high on T cells in polyps and lamina propria (LP) of ApcMin/+ mice compared to polyp free Apc+/+ littermates. Anti-PD-1 treatment alone promoted Tbet expression in iNKT cells and CD4 T cells, but did not significantly reduce polyp numbers. However, the combined treatment with anti-PD-1 and α-GalCer had synergistic effects, resulting in highly significant reduction of polyp numbers in the small and large intestine. Addition of PD-1 blockade to α-GalCer treatment prevented loss of iNKT cells that were skewed towards a TH1-like iNKT1 phenotype specifically in polyps. It also resulted in TH1 skewing and increased granzyme B expression of CD4 T cells. Taken together this demonstrates that a combination of immune stimulation targeting iNKT cells and checkpoint blockade may be a promising approach to develop for improved tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Madhura S Bhave
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hideo Yagita
- Department of Immunology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Susanna L Cardell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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